HERALD
$2.2 million
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
A home at 894 S. Long Beach Ave., in Freeport, has become the most expensive house ever sold in the village, at a price of $2.175 million. The sale of the three-level waterfront house is indicative of the rising home values in the area, even amid widespread concern about affordability on Long Island.
Agents Joshua Mohamed and Laura Chattoo, of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, worked with the homeowner, Mathews Benjamin Abraham, to sell the property, but breaking the saleprice record necessitated some
Neighbors unite to clean parks and preserves
By AllYSoN FERRARI
aferrari@liherald.com
Dozens of volunteers fanned out across four parks in Freeport and Baldwin on May 3 to collect litter, clear debris and spruce up public green spaces in recognition of Earth Day on April 22. Many of the volunteer efforts were originally scheduled for April 25, but were scheduled due to adverse weather conditions.
Hosted by Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, State Sen. Siela Bynoe and Nassau County legislators Debra Mulé and Scott Davis, the cleanup campaign brought residents, students and civic groups together at Milburn Creek Park, Brookside Preserve, Silver Lake Park and Lofts Pond Park.
By the end of the day, volunteers had collected more than 58 bags of garbage along with several bulk items, organizers said.
Participants included members of Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s Freeport Service Unit, Boy Scout Troop CoNtiNuED oN pagE 3
home sets new Freeport housing record
creative marketing tactics.
The house was built in 1942, but underwent extensive renovations and development that multiplied its value. According to public records, Abraham purchased the home for a little more than $1 million, and had more than doubled its value thanks to the renovations.
“It’s very hard to find waterfront properties like that,”
Mohamed said when asked what made the home so valuable. “This one was recently renovated — in 2023 it was completed. It’s flood-compliant, so that means it was raised. The basement area, which is about 2,500 square feet, is literally an
unused garage, and you can do whatever you want to it.”
Mohamed explained that a house of this size and location typically requires high-cost flood insurance. But because the previous owner undertook such large-scale renovations to make it much less likely to flood, the new owner will pay less than $800 annually for flood insurance, compared with the owners of neighboring homes, many of whom pay over $5,000 per year.
Chattoo noted that despite the fact that top-end homes in Freeport do not have the skyhigh values of those in nearby villages — like Merrick, where,
the agents say, a house like this one would sell for nearly $1 million more — the record-setting home and others like it are increasing Freeport’s real estate marketability.
“It’s in Freeport and it’s comparable to homes in Merrick and Baldwin Harbor — like, the luxury homes,” Chattoo said.
Before they began offering the home in 2024, the agents said, the property had been listed by a “prestige” real estate agent, and went unsold for over a year. The property was originally listed at nearly $2.25 million, $500,000 more than the previous village record. But thanks to some outside-the-box
Courtesy Office Assemblywoman Judy Griffin
Nassau County legislators Debra Mulé and Scott Davis joined student volunteers during the May 3 Earth Day community cleanup organized at parks across Baldwin and Freeport.
Atkinson sixth grader wins Hempstead contest
Sixth grade student Ashley Lopez Chavez from the Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School placed first in the grades 5 to 8 division of the 2026 Town of Hempstead Recycling Poster Contest. The contest was held in recognition of the U.S. celebrating Earth Day for 56 years.
Chavez’s award-winning poster, which was submitted by her art teacher, Eleanor Barry, was selected from among numerous entries representing schools across the Town of Hempstead. Chavez’s work stood out to judges thanks to its creativity, artistic skill and valuable message promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
Along with recognition for her art work and achievement, Chavez received a Barnes and Noble tablet along with an official citation from the Town of Hempstead. The Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School will also be awarded a $500 Barnes and Noble gift certificate to support student learning and enrichment initiatives.
“Ashley’s award is a wonderful example of how our students use their creativity to make a positive impact,” Principal Tameeka McNeil stated. “We are also grateful to Mrs. Barry for inspiring creativity and encouraging students to engage with important issues.”
Chavez was recognized along with other student winners at a special awards ceremony at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick. The event honored the efforts of the students and celebrated their contributions to environmental awareness within the community.
–Andrew Francis
Atkinson School art teacher
Courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Eleanor Barry celebrated with her student, sixth grader Ashley Lopez Chavez, earning first place in her division of the 2026 Town of Hempstead Recycling Poster Contest, along with Principal Tameeka McNeil.
Help sought to restore the Brookside Preserve
182, Freeport volunteer organization The Green Army, South Shore Conservation Society, Environmental Rotaract Club of Nassau County Long Island, Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club and Sanitary District No. 2.
Students from Baldwin High School’s Key Club and Freeport High School’s Student Government, Honor Society and ROTC also took part.
Griffin said the turnout reflected the community’s commitment to preserving local parks and waterways.
We made a difference and demonstrated why it is essential to preserve our natural resources and keep our community pristine.
Judy Griffin
New York Assemblywoman
“I am so grateful to the individuals, children, families, Boy Scouts, and local organizations who joined together to participate in our Earth Day cleanups at the various sites across Baldwin and Freeport,” Griffin said.
“Together, we made a difference and demonstrated why it is essential to preserve our natural resources and keep our community pristine.”
Mulé said the cleanup campaigns have become a successful example of residents working alongside elected officials to maintain Baldwin’s natural resources.
“I am glad that the community responded so enthusiastically to our Baldwin community cleanups,” she said. “It is their dedication and hard work that made this series such a great success.”
Bynoe called the parks “the heart of our community,” noting that beautification efforts help ensure they remain safe and welcoming gathering spaces.
Davis also praised the many student volunteers who spent part of their Saturday collecting trash and assisting with cleanup efforts.
Organizers said the event was intended not only to mark Earth Day, but also to encourage continued stewardship of neighborhood parks throughout the year.
The South Shore Conservation Society has led monthly volunteer clean-ups at the Brookside Preserve, but its efforts have been limited by the extent of damage already done to the 22-acre nature preserve — with mostly inaction from Nassau County, the society’s leaders said.
“As we are cleaning up, we as volunteers take extra
precaution, because there are needles on the ground, there are sex preservatives laying on the floor,” Jose Cuevas, the society’s vice president, said. “It is at times disgusting, where we have high school students passing by on their way to get an education. That’s not acceptable.”
The office of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums have not provided any comments about the Brookside Preserve despite several requests from the Herald.
The society has been seeking the county’s support for nearly three years and offered to continue and expand its restoration efforts, including the removal of trash that is found on the ground or in the water, and rebuilding the preserve’s walkways.
The society said it would be able to complete more extensive restoration efforts at the county-owned preserve if Nassau officials agreed to a formal partnership, since the society would then qualify for public conservation grants worth up to thousands of dollars to help fund these efforts, without any cost to the county or its residents.
Continued from page 1
Legislators debra mulé and Scott davis gathered with freeport High School student volunteers, who participated in the earth day cleanup effort.
Photos courtesy Office Assemblywoman Judy Griffin
Volunteers from the South Shore Conservation Society, Boy Scout troop 182, the green army and more helped spruce up the Brookside preserve in freeport and Baldwin.
Legislator debra mulé, Jose Cuevas of the South Shore Conservation Society and fellow volunteers took part in cleanup efforts at Brookside preserve in freeport.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
Crime watCh
LarCeny
On May 4, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was found to allegedly remove property from a local business without authority to do so. The subject was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.
On May 4, Freeport Police officers arrested a different subject who was found to allegedly remove property from a local business without authority to do so. The subject was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.
heroin
On April 29, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was seen yelling at people passing by on the street and was sweating profusely. The subject was asked by police officers if he needed help, and was soon found to
have a bag containing heroin hanging from his pants pocket. He was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.
Fraud and misChieF
On April 30, Freeport Police officers took a report for an unknown individual who posed as a Geico representative to fraudulently remove a large sum of money from a victim without authority to do so. No arrest was made.
On May 3, Freeport Police officers took a report of an unknown person who scratched a vehicle and slashed its tires without permission or authority to do so. No arrest was made.
Lost ProPerty
On May 2, Freeport Police officers secured a report for an individual who lost a set of keys to his business.
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
Baldwin man arrested for Freeport arsons
Nassau County police have arrested Elder Lopez Avalos for an alleged string of arsons in Freeport. The arrest occurred on May 10 at 1:30 a.m. in Freeport.
According to Nassau County detectives, officers responded to a report of multiple vehicles being on fire at the Municipal Parking Field 1, located on Smith Street. Officers found Avalos, 27, who lives on Ambrose Place in Baldwin, a short distance away from the scene of the burning vehicles and arrested him.
previous incidents of vehicle fires in Freeport. The incidents allegedly occurred on June 18, 2025, June 29, 2025, and May 2 of this year.
EldEr lopE z AvAlos
Further investigation by the detectives prompted them to determine that Avalos was also responsible for three
Avalos has been charged with six counts of arson in the third degree and one count of arson in the fourth degree. He was arraigned on May 11 at the First District Court in Hempstead. If convicted of all charges, Avalos could face several decades in prison, as New York law sets a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for a single count of third degree arsons.
–Andrew Francis
Value of waterfront properties rise higher
thinking, the pair were able to close on its sale, to Chung Henry in February.
“We went to the New York Boat Show in Manhattan to promote this listing,” Mohamed recounted. “We made custom fliers. We followed up with people we met at the boat show. We had people calling us to buy boats because we were talking so much!”
They met with potential buyers in Freeport restaurants and establishments along the Nautical Mile. Social media played a major role in their strategy, to attract more attention to the house and showcase its glamorous accommodations.
Adhering to the seller’s wishes also presented challenges, limiting the times at which they could show the property and how they could market it publicly.
“When someone wants to see something, especially at that price, they don’t want to be told, ‘No, come back at another time,’” Mohamed said, adding that the homeowner was as accommodating as he could be, but was adamant about when the house could be shown to prospective buyers.
“It’s also emotional. He was building a place for him and his family to live there,” Mohamed said. The agents explained that the homeowner had no plans to sell the home in which he invested so much — until the plans he had made with his partner unexpected-
ly changed.
The agents said that Freeport has become a more attractive option for housing for those in all income categories — though this high-profile sale is a reminder of how much less affordable large parts of Long Island have become.
“Long Island has been an exceptionally expensive place to live,” John Hrvatin, director of the Freeport Housing Authority, said. “On a macro basis, this
be age 3 and 4 on or before December 1
What $2.2 million gets you in
Freeport
■ Nearly a half-acre of property
2,860 square feet interior
Four bedrooms
Four bathrooms
Three levels
Waterfront property with boat dock
Electric fireplace
Accessible elevator ■ Two-car garage
[sale] just proves how difficult it is to make ends meet on Long Island for our affordable-housing sector and for our young adults.”
Pool ■ Central air system
Chattoo maintains, however, that Long Island, and Freeport, are increasingly desirable places to live. She added that many potential buyers of homes in the area are New York City residents who are tired of the overcrowded urban environment, and look to Long Island for areas that typically offer a better value and quality of life.
“You’re coming out to Long Island for the lifestyle,” Chattoo said. “You might as well live the luxury lifestyle, and you’re getting that here.”
Photos courtesy Joshua Mohamed this South Long Beach avenue home sold for nearly $2.2 million in february, breaking the record for a freeport house.
ROCCO spAlliNA MASSAPEQUA Junior LACROSSE
A UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA commit, Spallina is Nassau County’s leader in goals with 60 after scoring 52 as a sophmore in 2025 for the Class A champion. He’s scored at least four goals in nine games this spring including seven apiece against both Wantagh and Long Beach. He also has 19 assists.
eVeNts to watch
Monday, May 18
Boys/Girls Track & Field: Class AA championships at Roslyn High School 3 p.m.
Wednesday, May 20
Boys/Girls Track & Field: Class AAA championships at Westbury High School 3 p.m.
Thursday, May 21
Boys/Girls Track & Field: Class A championships at North Shore High School 3 p.m.
Saturday, May 23
Flag Football: Class A/B/C finals at LIU TBA
Wednesday, May 27
Girls Lacrosse: Class A/B finals at Adelphi TBA
Thursday, May 28
Girls Lacrosse: Class C/D finals at Adelphi TBA
Monday, June 1
Boys Lacrosse: Class B final at Hofstra 5:30 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Class C final at Hofstra 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 2
Boys Lacrosse: Class D final at Hofstra 5:30 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Class A final at Hofstra 7:30 p.m.
Nominate a “spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Memorable year for Freeport baseball
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
Freeport’s baseball team has orchestrated a turnaround 2026 season conducted largely by strong senior leadership.
A 5-2 win against Herricks Monday kept Freeport (16-0) unbeaten in Conference AAA-2 with three games remaining and a league title within reach a season removed from going 1-12-1 in a challenging AAA-1.
Fourteenth- year Freeport coach Roberto Delgado credits his eight seniors with creating a winning culture on and off the field this spring. The Red Devils are one of just two remaining unbeaten baseball teams in Nassau County, along with the Red Devils from Plainedge.
“The seniors have stepped up and taken care of business,” Delgado said. “It has been a real blessing for the whole program with how the seniors have handled themselves this year.”
Monday’s win to start a three-game series in a battle for first place with Herricks (14-1-1) featured seven strikeouts from Leondru Bonilla three and a third innings of relief. Senior Caleb Hollin recorded two hits including a double that drove in two runs.
The Herricks win followed a three-game sweep of Hicksville that began with a 4-1 home win on May 4 featuring two RBIs from senior shortstop Jayden Brown and one run driven by senior third baseman Justin Frometa. Junior pitcher Jermani Buchanan earned the win with four strong innings out
of the bullpen.
The next day Freeport rallied from an early five-run home for a 16-9 home win sparked by a two-run double from sophomore first baseman Max Jenkins.
The Red Devils completed the sweep last Thursday with
a dominant 13-3 road victory featuring a 3-for-3 performance from Hollin with a double and home run. Brown also had a big day at the plate going 2-for-2 with a double and triple while senior pitcher Manny Cruceta earned the win with five strong innings
of work.
Cruceta is part of a pitching staff that also features Buchanan and junior JC Rodriguez. The pitchers have gotten strong leadership behind the plate from senior catcher Frewin Diaz, who also has power at the plate with five home runs.
Diaz has hit five home runs including hitting backto–back shots with Frometa in a 10-0 win against Baldwin on April 14.
Delgago said his core group seniors for going out strong in their final high school seasons after putting in hard work the last four years with the program. Players who are slated to compete on the collegiate level next year include Diaz Baezat (SUNY Old Westbury, Frometa at Prince George’s Community College in Maryland and Hollin at Monroe College while Brown is still deciding between two schools.
“It’s good to see the kids four years growing every year and then go to college and play baseball and continue their education,” Delgado said. “They have all stepped up.”
Freeport now gears up for the Class AAA playoffs where Delgado hopes the magical season can continue. Delgado previously spearheaded a turnaround at Freeport when he took over as head coach in 2012 after the program went winless for three years and led them to the county quarterfinals in 2018.
“I believe in the guys and I believe in the team,” Delgado said. “We have a deep team and we should be able to do some damage in the playoffs.”
Ron Manfredi/Herald
Jermani Buchanan earned the win in relief May 4 as the Red Devils defeated Hicksville.
Historical Society grows ahead of U.S. 250 events News brief
The Freeport Historical Society has tripled its number of trustees, going from six to 18 total, ahead of the various plans the society has in place to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. throughout the Village of Freeport.
The Historical Society, which is celebrating its 65th year, is led by President Ellen Kelly, who expressed excitement about the organization and its partnerships for this year.
“Community organizations have been meeting since fall of last year,” Kelly said. “It is both exciting and challenging. We’re coordinating major celebrations with (a) calendar on our website that includes multiple organizations. A lot of people are totally unaware of all the things the Historical Society does.”
Kelly added the Historical Society Museum on South Main Street is currently closed for major renovations to the building and grounds, adding to the busyness the organization is experiencing. The renovations are in part thanks to a generous gift from the estate of former Historical Society President Cynthia Krieg. While the museum will be closed for most of the year, the building should be open in time for the end of the year to host some of the holiday events and close out the 250th anniversary celebrations.
year and are excited to be a part of the Historical Society at such an impactful time.
“I am truly honored to be installed as a trustee,” Muir said. “As one of the younger members of the board, I look forward to bringing fresh energy and ideas while working alongside such a dedicated group.”
Muir, who is the executive assistant to Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy, also mentioned that she enjoys history and is eager to support the society’s mission.
I want our residents to better understand how important Freeport has been and continues to be, and to take pride in that legacy.
Jenell MuIr Trustee, Freeport Historical Society
“For the past fifty years the Historical Society has acquired historic artifacts reflecting community life,” Kelly explained. “Now we would like to incorporate more oral histories to document our more recent history. We’re hoping to attract younger patrons including children.”
Another way the Historical Society hopes to attract younger patrons is through some of their new trustees. Two of such trustees, Jenell Muir and Alessandra Laucella, have joined this
“Many people don’t fully realize the depth of Freeport’s history, or how interconnected our community truly is,” she said. “I want our residents to better understand how important Freeport has been and continues to be, and to take pride in that legacy.”
One of the first 250th anniversary events that the Freeport Historical Society will be hosting is an open reading of the Declaration of Independence at Village Hall, modeling the original reading that took place in front of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the country’s founding. Mayor Kennedy will lead off the reading, followed by all four village trustees, County Legislator Debra Mulé, Freeport Chamber of Commerce President Ben Jackson and others.
“I know that members of the Historical Society, the Freeport Memorial Library, and many other organizations on the coordinating committee have been working tirelessly on America 250 festivities,” Kennedy stated.
For more information on how to get involved with the Freeport Historical Society and their events, please visit freeporthistorymuseum.org or email info@freeportnyhistory.org.
- Andrew Francis
PUBLIC
Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 • Time: 6:00pm Place:
May 5, the
Freeport garage fire displaces fourteen
The Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to an attached garage fire at 89 Raynor Street in Freeport at 10:35 a.m. on May 5. Upon arrival, the fire had extended to the two-story private home.
Under command of Chief Thomas Stevens, the Freeport Fire Department, assisted by the Merrick and Roosevelt fire departments, brought the fire under control within 15 minutes. There were approximately 30 firefighters on the scene.
Fortunately, no injuries have been
reported, but ten adults and four children have been left displaced. The American Red Cross has been contacted for assistance, according to Nassau County Deputy County Fire Coordinator Captain Kevin Lang.
The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Nassau County Fire Marshal Fire Investigators and the Nassau County Police Department Arson and Bomb Squad Detectives.
–Andrew Francis
Courtesy Village of Freeport
On
Freeport Fire Department brought a Raynor Street garage and house fire under control within 15 minutes.
Congresswoman visits police headquarters
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The Freeport Police Department welcomed a special guest in the form of U.S. Congresswoman Laura Gillen to their headquarters on May 7. During the visit, Gillen spoke with Freeport officers, went on a ride along tour of the Freeport community and tested some of the department’s newest drone technology.
Gillen, who is the representative for New York’s fourth congressional district, told the Herald that this is the second such ride along that she has done with Nassau County police departments, the first being with the Lynbrook Police Department, and the she intends to visit more departments.
into the district to help our law enforcement officers enhance their drone capacity,” Gillen stated. “We also talked about other needs as well in terms of vehicles.”
Daniel Loonie, a Freeport Police officer, accompanied Gillen for the majority of her visit, shared that Gillen’s support for the department is appreciated in addition to the support residents already provide.
I think it’s really helpful for me to know what’s going on in our communities.
L AuRA GILLEN Representative, New York’s Fourth Congressional District
“I think it’s really helpful for me to know what’s going on in our communities and how officers execute their duties every day,” Gillen said.
One of the parts of Gillen’s visit that stuck out to her was testing the drone technology that the department says is used for manhunts and helping with cases of missing individuals.
“We talked about different ways we can try to get more federal dollars back here
“The support from the politicians is great, because it helps achieve the funding and helps us make the neighborhood safer,” he said.
Gillen also added that in addition to financial support for equipment, she also has recognized the importance of providing police officers with counseling and mental health resources. She says she had hoped to introduce legislation to fund such programs, but was struck down by political opponents.
“I’m going to be reintroducing it again and trying to get bipartisan support, to get this bill across the finish line, because making sure that our law enforcement officers and first responders have access to counseling to help them deal with the trauma that they’ve dealt with,” she stated. “We should all be able to get behind that.”
BELMONT PARK VILLAGE
Courtesy Office Laura Gillen Gillen’s tour included testing out the Freeport Police Department’s newest drones with Officer Daniel Loonie, right.
Library proposes new $7.2 million budget
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The Freeport Memorial Library has proposed a budget increase of over $200,000 for its 2026 to 2027 fiscal year. If approved by a district vote on May 19, the library will have a total budget over $7.23 million to go towards its various programs, employee salaries and other expenses.
With the increased budget that was proposed, the Freeport Library, led by Director Lee Ann Moltzen, an increase of $134,601 in tax revenue is being requested. This is a 1.99 percent increase from the previous budget, but it remains below the tax cap, meaning no added cost to Freeport tax payers.
Out of its entire revenue, only about $333,335 comes from state aid and other revenue sources that are not local taxes. Moltzen stated that an increase of $66,824 is anticipated for the coming fiscal year due to the maturation of certificates of deposit, or CDs, savings accounts that accumulate interest for the library over time.
“There are some significant increases in downloadable books, search services and professional fees,” Moltzen explained to residents and the Freeport school board during a budget hearing on May 6. “The largest increases are in salaries and health insurance.”
The new proposed Freeport Memorial Library budget will have a tax levy increase of almost 2 percent.
Moltzen also said that the library has invested funds in improving its website and replacing its boiler system. They are also in the process of reorganizing its adult collection of books. She noted that all proposed renovations will use state grants and aid, and is not a part of the library’s operating budget.
Avoiding Guardianship in New York
For the ever-increasing number of those who become legally incapacitated later in life (i.e. unable to handle their legal and financial affairs) having a legal guardian appointed looms as a distinct possibility.
A guardianship proceeding may be commenced by a hospital, nursing home, assisted living residence, family member or a professional involved in the affairs of the “alleged incapacitated person” or “AIP”. These proceedings arise for various reasons such as the facility looking to secure payment or a family member or professional finding that the AIP is either not handling their affairs well or is being taken advantage of financially.
Once the proceeding is commenced a vast bureaucratic process begins to unfold. Notice of the proceeding and of the date and location of any hearings are sent to all interested parties, including all immediate family members.
The court appoints a court evaluator to meet with the AIP, determine the nature and extent
of the disability and write a report to the judge. The judge will also appoint a lawyer to represent the AIP in the proceeding and sometimes adult children will want their own lawyers to represent their interests.
The judge decides on who the legal guardian will be and it often ends up being a stranger to the family. Some judges feel that the AIP’s children should not be guardian due to a conflict – that whatever they spend on the AIP is coming out of their inheritance. Other reasons for not choosing one of the AIP’s adult children are sibling rivalry or inability to handle the responsibility.
Guardianship proceedings are expensive, time-consuming and highly stressful to all involved, including the AIP. Trusts avoid guardianship by providing privately who will handle your legal and financial affairs should you become legally incapacitated. Having a trust means you will have those in charge who you know and trust instead of the possibility of a
The Freeport Memorial Library’s 2026 to 2027 budget will be voted on alongside the budget for Freeport Public Schools and the election of three school board trustee positions. Freeport residents can register to vote Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Freeport Public Schools administra-
Freeport Memorial Library’s programs and services
■ Summer Reading Clubs for adults and several child age groups
■ Live classical music concerts and lectures
■ Art, cooking and writing workshops
■ Downloadable ebooks and audiobooks
■ Music, movie and TV streaming services
■ Literacy courses
■ Free lawyer, notary and social work services
■ Museum passes
■ Support groups
tion building. The results of all three votes will be announced later on the night of May 19.
Herald file photo
My Sister’s Keeper host empowering event
Roosevelt High School’s My Sister’s Keeper program joined with local nonprofit Girls, Inc. to host an engaging workshop intended to inspire girls and young women.
The two organizations worked together to facilitate a series of interactive exercises focused on creativity, leadership and community-building, providing students with meaningful opportunities to develop confidence and connection.
“Through My Sister’s Keeper, we are creating opportunities for our students to see themselves as leaders, innovators and changemakers,” Shawn Wightman, superintendent of schools for the Roosevelt Union Free School District, said. “By partnering with organizations like Girls, Inc. we are strengthening our commitment to equity and ensuring that every woman in Roosevelt has the support, mentorship and resources needed to succeed in school and beyond.”
My Sister’s Keeper, an initiative launched in New York State this past fall, builds upon the mission of the nationally recognized My Brother’s Keeper program by addressing the unique challenges faced by girls and young women of color. The program is also designed to eliminate gender disparities in science, technology, engineering and math fields, foster leadership skills and support diversity among future female leaders.
My Sister’s Keeper fellows engage in meaningful community service projects, participate in hands-on STEM learning experiences and connect with professional women working in STEM fields. Through mentorship and real-world exposure, students will gain valuable insight into STEM careers and pathways. The program will also partner with local businesses, educational organizations and colleges to offer immer-
sive experiences, STEM workshops, resume-building support and career guidance.
The Roosevelt school district has been a proud participating school in the My Brother’s Keeper program since 2021 and often hosts students from other Long Island districts for communitybuilding, networking and advocacy events. The district was one of the first on Long Island to launch a My Sister’s
Keeper program as well. Through its participation in My Sister’s Keeper, the Roosevelt School District reaffirms its commitment to equity, opportunity, and the empowerment of all students, ensuring that girls and young women are supported, inspired, and prepared to lead in tomorrow’s workforce.
–Andrew Francis
Roosevelt schools project budget decrease
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The school board of the Roosevelt Union Free School District has proposed a budget of just $151 million for the 2026 to 2027 school year, a decrease of nearly $1.5 million from the previous budget. District administrators say that the proposed decrease in spending is largely due to the district’s steadily declining debt and capital obligations.
Shaneiqua Butts-Bell, Roosevelt’s interim assistant superintendent for business and operations, presented the proposed budget to the school board and community members during a budget hearing on May 5 at Roosevelt High School, and outlined the key factors driving the district’s spending. Aside from the total proposed budget decreasing about one percent from the previous year’s spending, Butts-Bell highlighted that the school district will maintain a tax cap levy of one percent, well below the state allowed tax cap of 7.38 percent.
“We have maintained a consecutive one percent tax levy increase for the third consecutive year,” she said. “At the same time, state aid has decreased by approximately $1.7 million. Despite this, we have been able to maintain stability through our local planning and internal reallocations.”
Andrew Francis/Herald
The Roosevelt Union Free School District has proposed a decreased budget of $151 million for the 2026 to 2027 school year.
Butts-Bell added that a priority for the budget planning was not giving Roosevelt tax payers any further costs.
“Even though we have the ability to increase taxes significantly, we are choosing not to,” Butts-Bell asserted.
A few increases for certain budget
items are a part of the proposal, including investing over $800,000 more towards teacher salaries and program support, as well as a projected increase in charter tuition spending by over $650,000.
The budget proposal projects over $3
million in savings compared to the 2025 to 2026 budget for capital spending. The district says that the reduced capital costs will directly help support increased investment in student programs. Employee benefits costs are also suffering a slight decrease of less than two percent, from $28.42 million down to $27.87 million.
Roosevelt residents will be able to vote on accepting the district’s proposed budget on May 19 at either the Roosevelt High School Gymnasium or the Centennial Avenue Elementary School Gymnasium. If the budget is defeated after that vote, the board of education could recommend a re-vote to occur on June 16.
Additionally, residents will be asked to vote for two candidates running to be elected to the school board. Alfred T. Taylor, a former Roosevelt school board president, and Veronica L. Walters, a daycare provider in Roosevelt are both running to replace current school board president Belinda Monroe, who served the district for over six years and is not seeking re-election. Emily Moore, a current board member, is seeking re-election and is being challenged by Frank Abel, a band director at Roosevelt High School and community leader. The two election winners will serve three year terms from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029.
Courtesy Roosevelt Union Free School District
Students at Roosevelt High School enjoyed the engaging workshops.
Child care staff call for change nationwide
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
On May 11, parents and child care providers in Freeport joined the fifth annual “Day Without Child Care,” in which daycare centers close their doors for a day, highlighting the need for more equitable resources and support for child care workers and services from federal and state legislation.
Janna Rodriguez, director of the Innovative Daycare Corp in Freeport, assembled dozens of parents, children, community members and local legislators to discuss the importance of the services her organization and others provide, and identifying what factors need to change.
“A Day Without Child Care was an event that we put together in 2020, a group of us across the nation came together to talk about the importance of child care,” Rodriguez told the Herald. “One of the things that we talked about was compensation for wages. Equitable wages, especially when we were looking at women being compensated, especially when we look at women of color. That was something we wanted to work on.”
The nationwide event has been mobilized by the national organization, Community Change Action, that does advocacy work for low-income and marginalized groups with the hope of impacting
Andrew Francis/Herald
A Day Without Child Care seeks to highlight the deficiencies that the child care sector contends with while advocating for further federal and state government support.
institutional change within the U.S.
According to the organization, Rodriguez’s event in Freeport is one of 75 that happened nationwide across 28 states and involving thousands of people.
In a press release about Day Without Child Care, Community Change Action
points towards worsening affordability conditions and rising costs of living as major reasons that swift change is needed.
“Our communities are being directly attacked by ICE agents, and the (federal) administration is scapegoating
Somali providers,” the press release reads. “We can’t wait a second longer to create the universal childcare system we deserve—one that actually works, lifts the burden off of families and providers and invests in our youngest generation to give them the strongest start possible.”
Several local politicians and leaders attended the Innovative Daycare Corp’s event, including Village of Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy, Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé, a representative of New York State Assemblyman Noah Burroughs and Freeport Chamber of Commerce President Ben Jackson, who is also running to be elected as a county legislator.
Parents who rely on Rodriguez’s child care services detailed how important her support is and how child care workers need to be properly advocated for to U.S. Congress and state levels of government.
“She’s literally like my village,” parent Ashley Renaud said of Rodriguez. “She’s really everything. My daughter is bilingual, since she learned Spanish from Janna when she was two. She’s really a mother, even though she doesn’t have her own (children).”
Innovative Daycare Corp asks all who are interested to support through sharing messages of solidarity and support for child care services.
Mental health on Long Island
By Christy Hinko
Mental health needs across Long Island are rising, even as awareness and resources continue to expand. From Nassau to Su olk counties, providers, educators and advocates say the region is facing a complex moment: more people are seeking help, but barriers to access—including wait times, stigma and workforce shortages—remain significant.
“We’re still in a crisis,” said Liz Hildebrandt, executive director of NAMI Queens/Nassau. “The needs are high and people are still desperate to find care. There are long wait times for appointments, especially in the private sector.”
At the same time, Hildebrandt points to a shift that is both encouraging and urgent. “The rate of death by drug overdoses in Nassau County may be down, but behind the scenes, the state of mental health is in disarray,” she said. “Suicide rates are still very high and we’re seeing increases among young people.”
“
WLong Island’s network of nonprofit providers continues to play a critical role. Organizations such as Family & Children’s Association, North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center and CN Guidance & Counseling Services o er more immediate access to care than many private practices.
“Our local nonprofits can see people, and they provide excellent care,” Hildebrandt said. “We can’t ignore them. They are essential, especially for families who need help now.”
Access to crisis care has also improved in Nassau County with the addition of a 24/7 behavioral health crisis center in Hicksville, o ering an alternative to emergency rooms for individuals in acute distress. Still, the system faces capacity challenges, particularly when it comes to inpatient psychiatric beds.
e’re still in a crisis,” said Liz Hildebrandt, executive director of NAMI Queens/ Nassau. “The needs are high and people are still desperate to find care. There are long wait times for appointments, especially in the private sector.”
Youth mental health has become a central concern. Anxiety and depression are rising, and many experts point to a combination of social, environmental and behavioral factors.
A system under strain, a community responding
“The conversations with our youth show increased anxiety and depression,” Hildebrandt said. “Social media isolation is a big part of that. It’s not just how much time they’re spending online—it’s what they’re doing and whether they’re still connecting with people in real life.”
Substance use, particularly among teens, is another emerging factor. “There’s growing concern around THC use and vaping, which may be contributing to increased paranoia and psychosis,” she said. “That’s a serious issue when we talk about long-term mental health outcomes.”
Despite these challenges,
“There’s still a very limited number of beds available if someone needs to be hospitalized,” Hildebrandt said. “That’s an area where increased funding is critical.”
At the state level, recent policy changes have expanded the criteria for psychiatric intervention, allowing providers to consider a person’s overall ability to care for themselves—not just whether they pose an immediate danger. Hildebrandt called the shift “a really important step,” though she noted that public awareness of such changes remains low.
Education and outreach are also evolving. NAMI has seen increased interest from schools in bringing mental health programming directly to students.
“More schools are recognizing that students need more than just academic support,” she said. “They need real mental health education— understanding anxiety, learning coping skills and knowing when to ask for help.”
At Molloy University, faculty members are seeing the impact of the mental health crisis from another angle: the growing need for trained professionals.
Why Women Should Not Ignore Hearing Loss This May
May is a reminder that women’s health goes far beyond annual checkups, diet, or exercise. It’s about protecting long-term function, independence, confidence, and brain health.
May is both Women’s Health Month and Better Hearing Month, a national awareness effort encouraging people to take hearing and communication seriously. Today, research shows hearing loss is not just an ear issue—it is a brain health issue and one of the most important modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline.
For many women, hearing loss begins subtly. It may look like difficulty following conversations in noisy settings, feeling drained after social events, asking others to repeat themselves, or noticing ringing or buzzing in the ears. These signs are often dismissed as stress, aging, or others “mumbling.” But untreated hearing loss and tinnitus should not be ignored.
When hearing declines, the brain works harder to process sound. This added strain can affect memory, attention, and mental energy. Over time, it has been linked to cognitive decline, social withdrawal, loneliness, and depression. For women—often the communicators and caregivers in families—this loss of connection can impact every aspect of life. The good news is that hearing
loss and tinnitus are treatable. Early treatment can help restore clarity, reduce cognitive strain, and improve quality of life. Women who address hearing concerns often feel more confident, connected, and present in daily life.
Research continues to show that treating hearing loss may help reduce the risk of dementia and slow cognitive decline.
This May, add hearing to your
health checklist. If you’re noticin changes, don’t ignore them or assume they’re a normal part of aging. Take action. Protecting your hearing means protecting your brain, your relationships, and yo future.
Call (516) 212-0691 to request a copy of Preventing Decline, ask your questions, or schedule an appointment with Hearing and Brain Centers.
Better Hearing Month
Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by
which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.
Managing the risks of excessive social media use
Numerous studies show that screen time— whether on cell phones, tablets, computers, or TVs—is interfering with children’s sleep, physical activity, hobbies, behavioral health, and academic achievement.
Many parents, however, are underestimating or unaware of the harmful impact that excessive social media use may have or is having on their children, according to the results of a recent Mount Sinai South Nassau Truth in Medicine poll.
A study of U.S. children ages 12-15, referenced in the 2023 U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory “Social Media and Youth Mental Health,” found that teens who spent more than three hours per day on social media faced double the risk of poor mental health, including depression and anxiety. The advisory also pointed out that when 13-17-year-olds were asked about the impact of social media on their body image, 46 percent said social media makes them feel worse, 40 percent said it makes them feel neither better nor worse, and only 14 percent said it makes them feel better.
So what is a parent to do?
Lincoln Ferguson, MD, Chair of Pediatrics at Mount Sinai South Nassau, says a family media plan is an effective way to help parents and children manage time on mobile devices (and computers) for social media, gaming, and entertainment. Based on recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Ferguson believes the plan should include:
• One hour daily of physical activity
• 8-12 hours of sleep, depending on age
• A ban on use of devices or screens one hour before bedtime
• Media-free homework time, family time (such as dinner, family outings, and other activities), and locations in the home (including the kitchen, dining room, and/or bedrooms)
Many Long Island children are spending considerably more time with their screens than recommended.
Limiting screen time and ensuring your children are getting at least one hour of daily physical activity is vital to promote better health.
The Mount Sinai South Nassau Truth in Medicine Poll released in September 2024 asked 600 parents from New York and Long Island to estimate the amount of time per day their children use social media apps. In response, 27 percent said their children spend up to two hours per day, 34 percent said they spend between three and four hours, 16 percent said five or more hours, and 23 percent said they were not sure.
As part of the fiscal year 2026 State Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that announced and enacted on May 9, 2025, a statewide, “bell-to-bell” smartphone restriction in schools to reduce distractions and improve students’ mental health. Many school leaders are reporting positive results from the restriction.
Concern about overuse of social media is not limited to children. Nearly a third of area residents agree that they also spend too much time on social media or their cell phones, according to the Truth in Medicine poll. Some 16 percent of adults admit that they may be addicted to their cell phones, although most do not believe it is harming their relationships.
Residents concerned about mental health issues can turn to several resources, including Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Mental Health Counseling Center in Baldwin, as well as its Center for Primary and Behavioral Healthcare in Hempstead. Both Nassau and Suffolk counties also provide mobile crisis teams. Call 516-227-TALK (227-8255) for the Nassau County Mobile Crisis Team, which operates seven days a week, from 10 am to 11 pm. The Suffolk County Mobile Crisis Team phone number is 631-952-3333 for adults 18 and older; 631-3701701 for those under 18. For more information or a physician referral, call (516) 632-3000 or visit mountsinai.org/southnassau.
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
“Mental health is health. Without mental health, everything else really doesn’t work,” said Joseph Amnawah, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and assistant professor. “There isn’t a meaningful separation between the mind and body.”
Amnawah said awareness is improving, particularly among younger generations.
“We’re seeing increased awareness, which is a positive shift,” he said. “More people are recognizing the need for care for conditions like anxiety, depression and ADHD, but many of these still go untreated for long periods of time.”
Stigma remains a major barrier.
“If someone has diabetes or high blood pressure, they don’t hesitate to seek treatment,” Amnawah said. “But with mental health, there’s still this perception that it’s a personal failing and that prevents people from getting help.”
Breaking that stigma, he said, requires visibility and education.
“More community outreach, more public awareness—those are key,” he said. “Even seeing things like 988 crisis line ads in public spaces is a step in the right direction.”
The demand for providers is also shaping the next generation
Mental health is health; barriers remain significant
of healthcare workers. At Molloy, Amnawah said students are entering psychiatric programs from a wide range of medical backgrounds.
“We’re seeing people from ICU, ER, pediatrics, oncology—all different specialties,” he said. “What they have in common is that they’ve seen the unmet need for mental health care in the populations they serve.”
Many students bring personal connections to the field as well.
“People are going into this because they want to make a difference,” Amnawah said. “They’ve seen how mental health affects individuals and families and they want to be part of the solution.”
Keep a Consistent Routine
Your brain likes predictability. Waking up, eating, and going to sleep at roughly the same time helps stabilize mood and energy levels.
Move YouR BodY dailY
You don’t need a full workout—just 20–30 minutes of walking, stretching, or light exercise can reduce stress and improve mood by boosting endorphins.
liMit infoRMation oveRload
Constant news and social media can spike anxiety. Set boundaries—check in once or twice a day instead of constantly scrolling.
Get QualitY sleep
Aim for 7–9 hours. Poor sleep directly impacts mood, focus, and stress tolerance. A simple rule: no screens 30–60 minutes before bed.
staY ConneCted
For residents navigating the system, both Hildebrandt and Amnawah emphasize the importance of reaching out— whether through nonprofits, crisis centers or educational programs.
“People should know that help is available,” Hildebrandt said. “If you call these organizations, you will get care. You will get support.”
As Long Island continues to confront growing mental health needs, the path forward appears to depend on a combination of expanded access, sustained funding and continued efforts to normalize the conversation around mental wellbeing.
Even brief conversations with friends, family, or coworkers can improve mental health. Isolation tends to amplify stress.
pRaCtiCe “Mental offloadinG”
Write things down—tasks, worries, ideas. Getting them out of your head reduces overwhelm and helps you focus.
Be RealistiC With YouR WoRKload
Not everything is urgent. Prioritize what truly matters and push back when needed. Constant overload leads straight to burnout.
Photo by Marcel Straub
Mental health resources: where to turn on Long Island
By Christy Hinko
From crisis hotlines to longterm counseling and peer support, Long Island o ers a wide network of nonprofit mental health services. Whether you’re seeking immediate help or ongoing care, these organizations provide accessible, often low-cost or free support across Nassau and Su olk counties, as well as nearby Queens.
Nassau County
NAMI Queens/Nassau
A leading grassroots organization
offering free peer-led support groups, education programs and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Services are available both in person and online.
Contact: (516) 326-0797 or (718) 347-7284
Helpline: 800-950-NAMI (6264)
Local crisis lines: Nassau: (516) 227-8255
NAMI provides ongoing support groups and educational resources at no cost.
CN Guidance & Counseling Services
A major behavioral health provider
offering therapy, substance use
treatment, crisis services and care coordination. Operates a 24/7 Community Crisis Center in Hicksville. Contact: (516) 822-6111
CN Guidance serves Long Islanders with comprehensive clinical and support services under one umbrella.
Family & Children’s Association
Provides a wide range of mental health programs for children, adults and seniors, including counseling, recovery services and community outreach.
Address: 377 Oak St., Garden City Contact: (516) 746-0350
Programs include senior mental health care, addiction recovery and family support services.
Mental Health Association of Nassau County
Serving the community since 1953, MHANC offers advocacy, education and direct services to help individuals navigate mental health challenges. Provides wellness programs, training and recovery support.
Su olk County
Association for Mental Health and Wellness
Offers peer support, family services, recovery programs and education across Suffolk County. Known for support
groups and community-based care.
Family Service League
A major regional nonprofit providing mental health counseling, addiction services, housing support and crisis intervention.
Crisis/DASH (Diagnostic, Assessment and Stabilization Hub): (631) 952-3333
Suffolk residents can access 24/7 behavioral health crisis services through DASH.
Queens (NYC-based, serving western Long Island)
NYC Well
A free, confidential mental health support line for New York City residents, including Queens. Call: 1-888-692-9355
Offers phone, text and chat support 24/7
NAMI NYC
Provides education, support groups and advocacy across New York City, complementing services offered by NAMI Queens/Nassau.
Statewide & Crisis Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Dial or text 988 for immediate mental health support anywhere in the U.S. Free, confidential and available 24/7.
New York State Mental Health Hotline Call: 1-844-863-9314
Provides emotional support and referrals across New York State.
How To Use These Resources
Long Island’s mental health network is designed to meet people where they are. Crisis lines offer immediate help, while organizations like NAMI and MHANC focus on peer support and education. Providers such as CN Guidance and the Family & Children’s Association offer more structured clinical care, including therapy and case management.
Many services are free or covered by insurance, and several organizations provide multilingual support and telehealth options. For those unsure where to start, calling a local helpline or visiting a community-based nonprofit can be the first step toward care.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For urgent emotional support, dialing 988 connects you to trained counselors at any time.
Photo by Vitaly Gariev
Photo: Long Island’s mental health network is designed to meet people where they are.
Why Long Island Law Firms Are Rethinking Their Court Reporting Partners
Coordinating schedules across multiple parties, managing remote and hybrid proceedings, handling exhibits seamlessly during testimony, locating critical statements across volumes of transcripts— the logistical demands of modern depositions are daunting. Yet too many Long Island-area firms are still working with court reporting services that haven’t evolved beyond delivering transcripts and hoping you’ll figure out the rest.
The Hidden Cost of Outdated Workflows
The traditional approach costs more than most firms realize. Schedule a deposition, show up, receive a transcript weeks later, and manually search through hundreds of pages for that one critical admission. Attorneys and paralegals spend countless hours on administrative work that could be spent on case strategy. The most progressive firms recognize that their court reporting partner should function as a litigation support system, with technology that actually reduces workload rather than adds to it.
The Remote Deposition Reality
The surge in remote depositions isn’t temporary, and more
and more attorneys are deposing witnesses virtually or managing hybrid proceedings that combine in-person and remote participants. The firms succeeding in this new normal have court reporting partners with purpose-built technology for seamless exhibit handling, real-time collaboration and zero technical complications.
When your court reporting service provides integrated exhibit handling directly within video platforms, with private previews and autonumbering, it eliminates the chaos of “Can everyone see Exhibit 47?” moments that derail deposition flow. When your firm dashboard provides 24/7 access to scheduling, transcripts, and video files going back seven years, your team can pull case materials instantly instead of making phone calls and waiting for responses.
What Modern Litigation Support Actually Looks Like
Consider the reality of preparing for a complex motion or trial. You need to review testimony from multiple depositions, identify inconsistencies in witness statements, and locate key admissions buried in thousands of
pages of transcripts. Traditionally, this meant junior associates spending hours with highlighters and sticky notes.
Advanced AI-powered transcript analysis tools can now accomplish in minutes what used to take days. Semantic search capabilities let you find testimony based on concepts and meaning, not just keywords. Automated analysis identifies contradictions and patterns across multiple transcripts. These aren’t theoretical conveniences, they’re practical tools that Long Island firms are using to build stronger cases more efficiently.
The Concierge Difference
Technology matters, but so does the human element. Firms recognize that having a dedicated account manager who understands their preferences and workflows eliminates the repetitive explanations that waste time with transactional vendors. When you can get a non-automated response to requests within an hour, you’re not left scrambling when last-minute scheduling changes arise.
Complimentary conference rooms in major metropolitan areas,
deposition links sent the same day you book, and white-glove service delivered by legal and technology experts— these details may seem small individually, but collectively they represent the difference between a vendor and a true litigation partner.
Making the Switch
For Long Island law firms evaluating their court reporting relationships, the question is straightforward: Is your current partner helping you work more efficiently, or are they simply fulfilling orders? The legal market is competitive enough without handicapping yourself with outdated litigation support.
Learn more about how Steno delivers exceptional court reporting and cutting-edge litigation technology to law firms nationwide. Visit Steno.com or contact us to discuss your firm’s needs.
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14,
Top lawyers of Long Island honored at annual gala
By ABBEY SALVEMINI asalvemini@liherald.com
The Herald Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala transformed The Heritage Club at Bethpage into a lively gathering of the region’s legal community, where polished professionalism met an atmosphere of celebration.
The evening opened with a cocktail reception, where attorneys, sponsors and guests mingled, reconnecting with colleagues and forming new connections ahead of the formal program. A portion of the proceeds from the event will also be donated to the Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County.
As attendees made their way into the ballroom, the atmosphere shifted to one of recognition and reflection, setting the tone for a night centered on honoring excellence in the legal field.
Richner Communications CEO Stuart Richner called the event “a celebration of an extraordinary group of professionals who represent the very best of the legal community.” Richner also recognized Steno as the evening’s presenting sponsor, noting its continued support of the legal community.
Suffolk County Chief Assistant District Attorney Allen Bode also addressed the audience, opening with light humor as he apologized for District Attorney Ray Tierney’s absence before reflecting on his colleague’s leadership and career. Bode highlighted Tierney’s more than 30 years as a prosecutor and emphasized his role in advancing major cases, particularly the Gilgo Beach investigation, where improved collaboration proved critical.
“The real problem was that different agencies weren’t working together,” Bode said.
He noted that the coordinated effort led to rapid progress and ultimately a strong, evidence-based case, adding, “A sister of one of the victims told us that before the arrest, every time she left her house she wondered if [Rex] was across the street watching, now she doesn’t have to wonder anymore.”
As awards were presented and applause filled the room, honorees reflected on both the personal and professional meaning behind their recognition, many emphasizing the human impact of their work beyond the courtroom.
Dorothy Renz of Duffy & Duffy, PLLC spoke about the tangible difference her work makes in clients’ lives, noting that the most rewarding part of her career is seeing real outcomes. “You can see how it helps them. It benefits people on a real
level,” she said, adding that success in the legal field requires deep commitment and a willingness to take on challenges head-on.
Gayle Damiano of Steno underscored the importance of connection in a relationship-driven industry, describing the event as “an excellent entryway into meeting a large number of law firms” as the company continues to expand in New York. Surrounded by both familiar faces and new contacts, she pointed to networking as a cornerstone of growth in a service-based business.
Among the evening’s standout honorees were Stuart L. Finz, CaraMia R. Hart, and Brandon S. Finz of Finz & Finz, P.C., who were recognized for Trial Team of the Year. Reflecting on the achievement, Stuart L. Finz credited the collective effort behind the win. “You can’t win a case unless you have a superb team, nobody can do it by themselves,” he said, emphasizing the collaboration required to succeed at the highest level.
Joseph Milizio of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP reflected on
his firm’s continued recognition, emphasizing a commitment to both excellence and client care. “The VMM team works diligently to provide our clients with the very best legal counsel and representation,” he said. “Whether it’s a private or business client, there are two things we never compromise on: the quality of our legal service and the personal attention the client receives, from start to finish.”
Alexander Sklavos also spoke about the personal significance of the honor, particularly within his area of practice. “Being recognized in matrimonial law is especially meaningful to us as a husband-andwife team,” he said. “There is an undeniable irony in that, but also a deep sense of purpose.”
Brooke McDonald of Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP described the honor as a reflection of her purpose within the legal field. “This profession gives me a purpose to help people and be their voice,” she said, pointing to the fulfillment that comes from advocating for others and working alongside a strong, collaborative team.
Brian A. Tully, founder and managing partner of Tully Law Group, P.C., echoed the theme of impact, noting that the recognition extends beyond individual achievement. “It acknowledges the time, the effort, the expertise and how much we’ve been able to help the community,” he said, adding that his work in elder law is deeply personal, inspired by his grandparents and family experiences. He emphasized his firm’s commitment to serving families through a holistic approach to elder law.
As the evening unfolded, a clear theme resonated among both honorees and speakers: success in the legal profession goes beyond technical expertise, grounded instead in empathy, resilience and a true dedication to serving others.
Conversations carried on over dinner, where attendees exchanged insights, experiences and advice, further strengthening the sense of community that shaped the night. To learn more, see additional photos and view the complete list of honorees, visit richnerlive.com.
Tim Baker/Herald Honorees and their guests enjoyed the private cocktail hour prior to the awards gala.
Chief Assistant District Attorney, Allen Bode, delivering a keynote speech.
Brooke McDonald of Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP with her Rising Star award.
Jason A. Greenberg of JAG Law Group with his award in Personal Injury.
Stuart Richner with Andrew B. Woolf, left, and Jonathan R. Klee of Klee Woolf Goldman & Filpi, LLP.
Stuart Richner, right, with Alexander Sklavos of Sklavos Law Group accepting his award in Family Law.
Trial Team of the Year honorees CaraMia R. Hart, left, Brandon S. Finz, and Stuart L. Finz of Finz & Finz, P.C. with their award.
Dorothy Renz of Duffy & Duffy, PLLC walking to stage to accept her award in Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice.
The team at Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP with their award for Top Law Firm (Under 20 Employees).
Stuart Richner, right, with Gil Aldad of The Law Office of Gilad Aldad accepting his award in Real Estate.
The team at Schroder & Strom, LLP with their award for Top Tax Certiorari Law Firm.
C gratulati s
FROM OUR TEAM TO DOROTHY RENZ AND ALL OF THE OTHER HONOREES
DOROTHY
RENZ
Dorothy Renz is a partner at Duffy & Duffy. She practices personal injury law with a concentration in medical malpractice. Ms. Renz sits on the Associate Board of Directors of the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers. She is the vice chair of the Medical Legal Committee of the Nassau County Bar Association.
She earned the Silver Pro Bono Service Award at St. John’s University, awarded for dedicating more than 50 hours of pro bono work throughout her law school career. Her service included aiding victims of domestic violence in obtaining temporary orders of protection against their abusers. She also presently volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) advocating for the best interests of abused and neglected children in Nassau County.
Ms. Renz graduated from Boston College in 2006 with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. She attended St. John’s University School of Law, where she earned her J.D. in 2010. She is admitted to practice law in New York State. She is also admitted in Pennsylvania
STEPPING OUT
A garden invites children to take part in nurturing life and understanding the outcomes of their choices. When things don’t go as planned, it becomes a valuable space to build resilience, accept outcomes and try again.
Planting seeds of wonder
By Karen Bloom
One of the most meaningful things you can grow in a garden isn’t a flower or a vegetable — it’s a lifelong gardener. With summer on the horizon, outdoor spaces begin to feel like an extension of home, creating a natural setting for families to connect, explore and unwind. For children, the benefits of gardening go far beyond getting a little dirt under their nails. A growing body of research links hands-on gardening to improved physical health, emotional well-being and even stronger academic performance. Add in the value of family time, and it’s easy to see why more parents and grandparents are heading outside together.
Let curiosity lead
The key to success? A little flexibility — and a lot of patience.
When gardening with kids, be prepared to pivot. Adults may focus on neat rows and finished results, but children are often drawn to discovery. That carefully planned planting activity might pause for a closer look at a grasshopper or a worm—and that’s okay. Lean into their curiosity. Use those moments as opportunities to teach, connect and nurture a sense of wonder.
At its core, gardening with children is about building positive associations. If they leave the garden feeling curious, happy and engaged, you’ve done it right — and they’ll be eager to return.
America
Following a sold-out run of shows for their 55th anniversary, America is on the road again. Known for their timeless tunes, the Grammy-winning band draws on their deep catalog of hits, including their signature song, “Horse With No Name,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972. America — Gerry Buckley and Dewey Bunnell — met in while attending school in London, along with Dan Peek, while their Air Force fathers were stationed there. The band is also the subject of a new documentary, “I Need You: 53 Years Of The Band America,” which takes audiences backstage as Beckley and Bunnell privately say goodbye to a lifetime together on the road. Beckley remains an active band member but retired from touring in 2024, while America continues to tour with Bunnell at the helm. America’s audiences continue to grow, bearing testament to their enduring appeal.
Friday, May 15, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Life lessons in the garden
Dig, plant, repeat
Giving kids a say in what they grow can also make a big difference. While it helps to include a few easy, reliable plants, don’t shy away from their creative choices. Whether it’s beets, roses or bright petunias, that sense of ownership encourages them to stay involved. And remember, gardening doesn’t require a large backyard — containers on a porch, balcony or windowsill can be just as rewarding.
It’s also important to choose projects that fit your family’s lifestyle. Consider your children’s ages and abilities, along with your time, space and budget. Setting realistic expectations helps ensure the experience remains enjoyable rather than overwhelming.
And don’t underestimate the simple joy of digging. For many kids, that’s the highlight. Designating a small “dig zone” in the garden allows them to explore freely — searching for worms, examining soil and engaging their senses — while protecting more delicate plantings.
Many hands, one garden
Creating a welcoming, joyful environment is essential. Early, positive experiences in nature can foster a lasting sense of responsibility for the world around them. Encourage participation and small responsibilities, but avoid turning gardening into a chore. Let children engage at their own pace, and respect their comfort levels when it comes to touching, tasting or smelling plants.
If you’re gardening with multiple children, think about ways to make the experience inclusive. Collaborative tasks — one child digging, another adding soil, another placing a plant — can keep everyone involved and invested.
Equally valuable is unstructured time. Allow kids to simply be in the garden without a set agenda. Those quiet moments of observation and self-directed play often spark the deepest connections to nature.
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy it yourself. Children take cues from the adults around them, and your enthusiasm can be contagious. When they see your genuine appreciation for gardening, they’re far more likely to develop their own.
Because in the end, the real harvest isn’t just what grows in the soil — it’s the love of nature that grows alongside it.
Wallflowers
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. Saturday, May 16, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
MAY
14
Health and Science Expo
The Bayview Avenue School of Arts and Sciences hosts its annual Health and Science Expo for all students and families to attend.
• Where: 325 West Merrick Road
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 867-5255
MAY
15
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 16, May 20-21
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
MAY
16
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
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
‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’
Spring blooms with a taste of summer as Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band bring their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to the Paramount stage, celebrating the music of Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, and Zac Brown Band. Long Island–based and led by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, the group also features Linn DeMilta (Lovely Linn) on lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios on guitar, Frank Stainkamp on keyboards, Dan Prine on bass, and Mike Vecchione on drums. Together, they’ve spent more than a decade channeling the laid-back spirit of beach-country favorites across stages throughout the Northeast. With a setlist built for singing along, the band blends crowd-pleasing hits with an easygoing, sun-soaked energy that evokes margaritas, ocean breezes and carefree nights where, as they like to say, it’s always “5 o’clock somewhere.”
MAY
21
Little Learners Art Lab
Each week in this engaging workshop at Long Island Children’s Museum, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week, we will be making American flags using pom pom paint brushes. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Decoration Day
MAY
23
Step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration during a Decoration Day program honoring those who served. With historical demonstrations, brass band entertainment, ceremony and parade.
Nature Connects
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes internationally acclaimed artist Sean Kenney and his Nature Connects exhibition. Explore 17 larger-than-life sculptures inspired by the wonders of the natural world — each built from over 300,000 LEGO® bricks. Vibrant and imaginative, these creations blend art, science, and nature, offering visitors of all ages a playful new way to experience the gardens. Opens May 16 and is on view through Sept. 7. Tickets required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
MAY
17
Busy Bees
We all know that bees are amazing. While we often think of only the honey bee, Long Island’s native mason bee is an impressive little insect. They pollinate 20 times more plants than honey bees, live their life in solitude and are not aggressive. Bring the family to celebrate World Bee Day at Long Island Children’s Museum to learn all about these hard
workers and make a bee habitat to welcome them to your garden. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 1-3 p.m
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Long Island Choral Society Spring Concert
The Long Island Choral Society performs a concert of varied delights, including Franz Schubert’s Mass No.2 in G, selections by Haydn, Brahms, Samuel Barber and Randall Thompson, plus some traditional selections celebrating America at 250. Under the baton of Music Director Michael C. Haigler, ensemble is joined by a chamber orchestra and featured soloists Georgia Rehbock, soprano; Christopher Judge, tenor, and Ian Joyal, baritone. Tickets are available at the door. $20 adult, $10, youth.
• Where: Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City
• Time: 4 p.m.
• Contact: lics.org or (516) 652-6878
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
Fans of Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily alike can expect a lively, feel-good night of music that turns the Paramount into a full-on coastal celebration. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
SEPTA
MAY
18
Meeting
The Special Education ParentsTeachers Association for Freeport schools meets to discuss events and issues of importance to special education students and Freeport Public Schools programs.
• Where: 58 West Seaman Ave.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 867-5265
MAY
19
School Budget Vote and Trustee Election
All Freeport residents are invited to vote on the annual Board of Education budget and vote for school board trustees. Seven candidates are running for three board seats. Register to vote at the Freeport Public Schools administration building. Please visit the district website to view your assigned polling place. Acceptance of the voting results will be later in the evening at the Caroline G. Atkinson School.
• Where: 58 West Seaman Ave.
• Time: 9:45 p.m.
• Contact: freeportschools.org
• Where: 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage.
• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Contact: oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org or (516) 572-8409
MAY
27
Rockin’ 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
• Time: Noon
• Contact: NassauCountyNY.gov
Having an event?
Items on te 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.
News briefs
Students meet a legislator on Law Day
In recognition of Friday, May 1, as Law Day in the U.S., Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis welcomed students from the Roosevelt and Hempstead school districts to the Nassau County First District Court and the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola.
With Davis, the students witnessed court proceedings and visited the legislative chambers and offices. Davis, along with members of the Minority Counsel, also spoke with students during a “lunch-and-learn” session following their tour.
Law Day celebrates the rule of law in the U.S. and provides an opportunity
for students and adults to better understand how law and the legal processes strive to protect the values of liberty, justice and freedom for all American citizens.
“Preserving the rule of law requires vigilance and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of young leaders who will defend these institutions for decades to come,” Davis said.
“I can think of no better way to honor National Law Day than an up-close view of the functioning of the courts and their local government, and I thank our local school districts for... making this opportunity possible.”
–Andrew Francis
FHS battles in Stock Market Challenge
On Thursday, April 16, two teams of Freeport High School students finished amongst the top ten in the Junior Achievement of New York Stock Market Challenge. The competition featured teams from New York City, the Hudson Valley and other Long Island schools. The two Freeport teams earned eighth and ninth place rankings at the end of the event.
The Junior Achievement of New York Stock Markey Challenge tasks students with applying classroom knowledge and financial literacy to
live simulations in a high-energy and real-world setting. Participants analyze a fictional marketplace, make strategic investment decisions and engage in real-time trading that mirrors the stock market’s pace and complexity. Team leaders Mujtaba Bukhari and Jeremy Henderson worked alongside career and financial management teacher Eileen Shultis and teammates Adrian Rivera, Adriano Williams, Raphael Lloyd, Tushan Hardyal and Victor Carchipulla Guerrer.
–Andrew Francis
Courtesy Chris Portuondodesmith
Legislator Scott Davis gives Roosevelt and Hempstead students an informative rundown on county legislative procedures.
Courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Two teams of Freeport High School students earned top ten finishes in the New York Stock Market Challenge after demonstrating financial decision-making skills.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION
ROOSEVELT UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT ROOSEVELT, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the Roosevelt Union Free School District, Roosevelt, Nassau County, New York, will be held at the Roosevelt High School, 1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt, New York, in said District on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.
1. Presentation of the budget document.
2. To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on May 19, 2026, as hereinafter set forth.
3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on May 19, 2026, at 6:00 a.m. prevailing time, in the school buildings located in such districts as enumerated below:
District No. 1: Roosevelt High School 1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575
District No. 2: Centennial Elementary School
140 West Centennial Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575
at which time the polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
2. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a Capital Reserve Proposition in substantially the following form shall be presented to the qualified voters of the
District at such Annual District Meeting and Election and shall appear on the ballots to be used for voting in substantially the following form: CAPITAL RESERVE PROPOSITION YES NO RESOLVED
(a) That the Board of Education of the Roosevelt Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”) is hereby authorized to replace roof top mechanical units, recoat and/or replace roofing and undertake interior reconstruction and/ or renovations (the “Project”); the foregoing to include original furnishings, equipment, machinery, apparatus and ancillary or related site, demolition and other work required in connection therewith; and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto, an amount not to exceed $2,000,000; and (b) that $2,000,000 of funds on hand and available in the District’s “Building Capital Reserve Fund,” originally established by the voters on May 20, 2008 and re-established by the voters of the District on May 16, 2017, plus any interest earnings thereon, are hereby authorized to be expended to pay the cost of the Project, and such expenditure is hereby approved.
3. To elect members of the Board of Education as follows:
a. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2029 to succeed Belinda Monroe, whose term expires on June 30, 2026.
b. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2029, to succeed Emily Moore, whose term expires on June 30, 2026.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the Roosevelt Union Free School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District
Clerk’s office 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, New York 11575 not later than April 20, 2026, between 9 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by at least 25 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 qualified voters or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the 2025 annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Each petition shall be directed to the District Clerk and shall describe the specific vacancy for which the candidate is nominated. Each vacancy upon the Board of Education to be filled shall be considered a separate specific vacancy.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. The Board of Registration will meet for the purposes of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to Education Law §2014 in the school buildings designated for each election district on May 5, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. prevailing time, to add any additional names to the Registers to be used at the aforesaid Budget Vote and Election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Registers, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such Budget Vote and Election for which the Register are prepared. The Registers so prepared pursuant to Education Law §2014
will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District in the Administration Building, located at 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the Budget Vote and Election, except Sunday or holidays, and on Saturday by prearranged appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 516345-7005, and at the polling places on the day of the Budget Vote and Election.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet on May 19, 2026, in the school buildings designated for each election district between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, to prepare the Registers of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2027, and any special meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Registers, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Registers, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which Registers are prepared.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District Clerk at 516-345-7005 for information about accessibility.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 5, 2026, public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, New York, 11575. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may
be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election on the school district website https:// www.rooseveltufsd. org/, at the Roosevelt Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 27 West Fulton Avenue, Roosevelt, New York, at the School District Administrative Center, 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, New York, 11575, and at each of the following school buildings in which school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays:
Roosevelt High School Roosevelt Middle School Centennial Avenue Elementary School Washington Rose Elementary School Ulysses Byas Elementary School
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026. In accordance with Education Law
§§ 2018-a and 2018e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) 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 to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 16, 2026, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 516345-7005 and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge.
A challenge to an absentee ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an early mail ballot nor shall a challenge be made to an early mail ballot on the basis that the voter should have applied for an absentee ballot. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Roosevelt Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to districtclerk@rufsd.org or fax sent to 516-345-
7326. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Roosevelt Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to districtclerk@rufsd. org or fax sent to 516345-7326. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 23, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575 along with the required signed affidavit by the voter.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 19, 2026, 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 received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026, and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk at 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575, not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on April 20, 2026. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at 516-345-7005.
Pamela Pratt
District Clerk of the Board of Education Roosevelt Union Free School District 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575 159205
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE LA UNIÓN DE ROOSEVELT ROOSEVELT, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en la Escuela Secundaria Roosevelt (Roosevelt High School), 1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt, Nueva York, en dicho Distrito el martes 5 de mayo de 2026, a las 7:00 p.m. hora prevaleciente, para la transacción de
Public Notices
los asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes puntos:
1. Presentación del documento del presupuesto.
2. Para discutir todos los puntos aquí establecidos, que serán votados por máquina de votación en la elección que se llevará a cabo el 19 de mayo de 2026, según se establece en adelante.
3. Para tramitar cualquier otro asunto que pueda presentarse debidamente ante la reunión.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que dicha votación y elección se llevará a cabo el 19 de mayo de 2026, a las 6:00 a.m. hora prevaleciente, en los edificios escolares ubicados en los distritos que se enumeran a continuación:
Distrito No. 1: Escuela Secundaria Roosevelt (Roosevelt High School) 1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575
Distrito No. 2: Escuela Primaria Centennial (Centennial Elementary School) 140 West Centennial Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575
momento en el cual las urnas estarán abiertas desde las 6:00 a.m. hasta las 9:00 p.m. hora prevaleciente, para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos:
1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la parte necesaria del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito.
2. SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que se presentará a los votantes calificados del Distrito en dicha Reunión Anual y Elección del Distrito una Proposición de Reserva de Capital sustancialmente en la siguiente forma, y aparecerá en las boletas que se utilizarán para la votación sustancialmente en la siguiente forma:
PROPOSICIÓN DE RESERVA DE CAPITAL
SÍ NO
RESUELTO
(a) Que la Junta de
Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt, en el Condado de Nassau, Nueva York (el “Distrito”) está autorizada por la presente para reemplazar unidades mecánicas de techo, recubrir y/o reemplazar techado y emprender la reconstrucción interior y/o renovaciones (el “Proyecto”); lo anterior incluirá mobiliario original, equipo, maquinaria, aparatos y trabajos de sitio, demolición y otros trabajos auxiliares o relacionados requeridos en conexión con ello; y para gastar para ello, incluyendo costos preliminares y costos incidentales al mismo, una cantidad que no exceda los $2,000,000; y (b) que se autoriza el gasto de $2,000,000 de los fondos disponibles en el “Fondo de Reserva de Capital de Construcción” del Distrito, establecido originalmente por los votantes el 20 de mayo de 2008 y reestablecido por los votantes del Distrito el 16 de mayo de 2017, más cualquier ganancia por intereses sobre los mismos, para pagar el costo del Proyecto, y dicho gasto queda aprobado por la presente.
3. Para elegir a los miembros de la Junta de Educación de la siguiente manera:
a. Para elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres (3) años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y vence el 30 de junio de 2029 para suceder a Belinda Monroe, cuyo período vence el 30 de junio de 2026.
b. Para elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres (3) años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y vence el 30 de junio de 2029, para suceder a Emily Moore, cuyo período vence el 30 de junio de 2026.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las peticiones que nominen candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt deberán presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito de dicho Distrito Escolar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, Nueva York 11575, a más
tardar el 20 de abril de 2026, entre las 9 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente. Todas las peticiones de nominación deben estar firmadas por al menos 25 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor entre 25 votantes calificados o el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual de 2025); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y deben indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Cada petición se dirigirá al Secretario del Distrito y describirá la vacante específica para la cual se nomina al candidato. Cada vacante en la Junta de Educación que deba cubrirse se considerará una vacante específica por separado.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes, ya sea de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación de Nueva York o de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley de Elecciones del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación de Nueva York y ha votado en cualquier reunión anual o especial del distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, dicho votante es elegible para votar en esta elección; si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley de Elecciones del Estado de Nueva York, dicho votante también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. La Junta de Registro se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 en los edificios escolares designados para cada distrito electoral el 5 de mayo de 2026, entre las horas de 9:00 a.m. y 1:00 p.m. hora prevaleciente, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional a los Registros que se utilizarán en la citada Votación del Presupuesto y Elección; en ese momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que se incluya su nombre en dichos Registros, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de
Registro se conozca o se demuestre, a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro, que tiene o tendrá derecho a votar en dicha Votación del Presupuesto y Elección para la cual se preparan los Registros. Los Registros así preparados de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 se archivarán en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio de Administración, ubicado en 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, Nueva York, y estarán abiertos para inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las horas de 9:00 a.m. y 4:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en días laborables, y cada día previo al día fijado para la Votación del Presupuesto y Elección, excepto domingos o feriados, y el sábado mediante cita previa comunicándose con el Secretario del Distrito al 516-345-7005, y en los lugares de votación el día de la Votación del Presupuesto y Elección.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el 19 de mayo de 2026, en los edificios escolares designados para cada distrito electoral entre las horas de 6:00 a.m. y 9:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, para preparar los Registros del Distrito Escolar que se utilizarán en la reunión anual y elección que se llevará a cabo en 2027, y cualquier reunión especial que pueda llevarse a cabo después de la preparación de dichos Registros, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que se incluya su nombre en dichos Registros, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se conozca o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que en ese momento o en adelante tiene derecho a votar en la reunión o elección escolar para la cual se preparan los Registros.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que los votantes calificados con discapacidades que busquen información sobre el acceso a los lugares de votación pueden, antes del día de la votación, comunicarse con el Secretario del Distrito al 516-345-7005 para
obtener información sobre la accesibilidad.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que a partir de los siete (7) días inmediatamente anteriores a la audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto del 5 de mayo de 2026, cualquier residente del Distrito puede solicitar revisar una copia del presupuesto propuesto presentándose en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, Nueva York, 11575. Además, cualquier residente del Distrito puede obtener una declaración de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección en el sitio web del distrito escolar https://www. rooseveltufsd.org/, en la Biblioteca Pública de Roosevelt durante sus horas normales de operación, ubicada en 27 West Fulton Avenue, Roosevelt, Nueva York, en el Centro Administrativo del Distrito Escolar, 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, Nueva York, 11575, y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares en los que se mantiene la escuela entre las horas de 9 a.m. y 4 p.m., hora prevaleciente, excepto sábados, domingos y feriados: Roosevelt High School Roosevelt Middle School Centennial Avenue Elementary School Washington Rose Elementary School Ulysses Byas Elementary School
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre la Propiedad Real, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exenciones. Dicho informe de exenciones, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cuánto del valor tasado total en la lista de tasación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada, identificada por la autoridad estatutaria, y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención expresado como una cantidad en dólares del valor tasado o como un porcentaje del valor tasado total en la lista; (b) la
cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablero de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web mantenido por el Distrito.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo se podrán obtener durante las horas hábiles escolares en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 20 de abril de 2026. De acuerdo con las Secciones 2018-a y 2018-e de la Ley de Educación, las solicitudes completas de boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo no pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes de los treinta (30) días previos a la elección, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta debe enviarse por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la boleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de boleta de voto en ausencia o de voto anticipado por correo. Las boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026. Una lista de las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido boletas de voto en ausencia, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido boletas de votante anticipado por correo, estarán disponibles para inspección por parte de los votantes calificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las horas de 9:00 a.m. y 4:00 p.m. en los días laborables previos al día fijado para la elección anual y el 16 de mayo de 2026, mediante cita previa comunicándose con el Secretario del Distrito al 516-345-7005 y el 19 de mayo de 2026, el día
fijado para la elección. Cualquier votante calificado puede, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las calificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dichas listas, indicando las razones de dicha impugnación. No se podrá impugnar una boleta de voto en ausencia alegando que el votante debería haber solicitado una boleta de voto anticipado por correo, ni se impugnará una boleta de voto anticipado por correo alegando que el votante debería haber solicitado una boleta de voto en ausencia. Cualquier impugnación por escrito de este tipo será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o un designado de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores de la elección el día de la elección.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt solicitando y devolviendo una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a districtclerk@rufsd. org o por fax enviado al 516-345-7326. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro ya sea por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votante militar deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 23 de abril de 2026.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las boletas militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026, mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o si son recibidas a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 19 de mayo de 2026, y están firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo de ello, con una fecha que se verifique que no es posterior al día anterior a la elección.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referéndum o proposición para enmendar el presupuesto, o que de otro modo se presente para votación en dicha elección, debe presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575, a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el 20 de abril de 2026. Todas estas peticiones deben estar escritas a máquina o impresas en el idioma inglés; deben estar dirigidas al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmadas por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor entre 25 o el 5%
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt pueden solicitar una solicitud de boleta militar al Secretario del Distrito y devolver dicha solicitud de boleta militar al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a districtclerk@rufsd. org o por fax enviado al 516-345-7326. Para que a un votante militar se le emita una boleta militar, se debe recibir una solicitud de boleta militar válida en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 23 de abril de 2026. Las solicitudes de boletas militares recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de boleta no militar bajo la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de boleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la boleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de boleta militar original de un votante militar y la boleta militar deben devolverse por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575 junto con la declaración jurada firmada requerida por el votante.
To place us at 516-569-4000 or send legalnotices@liherald.com
14,
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Public Notices
del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y deben indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educación no considerará ninguna petición para presentar ante los votantes ninguna proposición cuyo propósito no esté dentro de los poderes de los votantes para determinar, ni ninguna proposición o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley.
Y POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre esta Votación del Presupuesto y Elección en español deben comunicarse con la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito al 516-3457005.
Pamela Pratt Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Roosevelt 240 Denton Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575 159207
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
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
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, 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. 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 obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 89892 159754
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).
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
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 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
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 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
Public Notices
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
LEGAL NOTICE
SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD MEETINGMAY 26, 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing will be held before the Site Plan Review Board on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:45 P.M., in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, on Site Plan applications as they appear on the calendar; public comment invited. The Board will meet at 6:30 P.M. in the Trustees Conference Room to discuss cases not requiring a public hearing; open to the public, no public comment.
INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions.
SP-3892 - 186 Atlantic Avenue, Section 62/Block 113/Lots 216. Residence AA & Business B, Eric Weinstein. Construct 1,631 sq. ft. 1-story addition.
BY ORDER OF THE PLANNING BOARD
Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 160218
LEGAL NOTICE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
SPECIFICATIONS FOR PUPIL
TRANSPORTATION Section 1
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The Board of Education Of The Baldwin Union Free School District.
County of Nassau hereafter invites The Submission of Sealed Bids for the SouthWest Quadrant Consortium PUPIL
TRANSPORTATION
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
At 11:00 A.M. At the office Of the Board of Education
Baldwin Union Free School District, Baldwin N.Y. 11510
At which time and place All bids will be publicly Opened and read aloud
Specifications and bid Forms may be obtained By Telephone 516-434-6040
Between the hours of 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM Weekdays. The Board of Education reserves the Right to reject any or all Bids, or to accept any bid Which is in the opinion of The Board of Education Will be in the best Interest of the School District Board of Education Baldwin Union Free School District.
By: Pamela Pratt District Clerk 160211
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to §128-5 of the Freeport Village Code, a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport will be held to conduct public hearings on Monday, June 1, 2026 at 5:30 P.M., in the Municipal Building, Board of Trustees Conference Room, 46 North Ocean Avenue, 2nd Floor, Freeport, NY adjacent to the Mayor’s Office.
Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: May 14, 2026 160221
LEGAL NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following Boards, Commissions, and Committees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport are scheduled to meet in the following locations: Board of Ethics - Meets as required Commission for the Conservation of the Environment of Freeport - 1st Tuesday, 6:30 P.M., April, June, September & November - Splash Building, 202 Woodcleft Avenue Highway Commission1st Thursday, 7:00 P.M., 355 Albany Avenue Commission on Human
Relations - 4th
Tuesday, 7:30 P.M., Freeport Memorial Library, 144 West Merrick Road
Landmarks Preservation Commission - 3rd
Tuesday, 6:30 P.M., Village Hall, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, BOT Conference Room
Sewer and Sanitation Commission - 1st
Thursday, 7:30 P.M., 355 Albany Avenue Traffic Safety Commission - 1st
Thursday, 4:00 P.M., 355 Albany Avenue
Water and Light Commission - 2nd
Wednesday in March, June, September, & December 4:00 P.M., 220 West Sunrise Highway Electrical Board - 1st
Tuesday, 6:00 P.M., Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue, BOT Conference Room Planning Board - 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 6:00 P.M., Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue Plumbing Board - 2nd
Wednesday in January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December - 7:00 P.M., Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue, BOT
Conference Room
Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council - 4th
Wednesday in January, April, July and October, 7:00 P.M., American Legion Post 342, 925 S.
Ocean Avenue
Mayor’s Advisory Committee - Fire EMSMeets as required Public Safety Committee - Meets as required Senior Citizens Council - Meets as required Zoning Board of Appeals - 3rd Thursday, 6:00 P.M., Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue
The regular meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport for the forthcoming official year shall be held at 5:00 P.M. in the Main Conference Room, Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, as follows: 2026: April 20 (public comment), May 4, May 18 (public comment), June 1, June 15, June 29 (public comment), July 13, July 27 (public comment), August 10, August 24 (public comment), September 8 (Tuesday), September 28 (public comment), October 5, October 19 (public comment), November 2, November 16, November 30 (public comment),
December 14 (Tentative Budget), December 28 (public comment) 2027: January 11 (Budget Hearing), January 25 (public comment), February 8, February 22 (public comment), March 8, March 17 (Special meeting), March 22 (public comment), April 5, 2027 (Organization Night).
Pamela Walsh Boening
Village Clerk
Dated: May 14, 2026 160220
net gain of 20 square feet of tidal wetlands. Maintenance dredge and backfill. The project is located at 205 Westside Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520 on Randall Canal in the Village of Freeport, Nassau County. Availability of Application Documents: Filed application documents, and Department draft permits where applicable, are available for inspection during normal business hours at the address of the contact person. To ensure timely service at the time of inspection, it is recommended that an appointment be made with the contact person.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
The Freeport Housing Authority will hold a Public Meeting on May 27, 2026, at 240 South Main Street, Community Center, Freeport, NY 11520. The meeting will start at 5:00PM. 160157
LEGAL NOTICE
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Notice of Complete Application Date: 04/28/2026
Applicant: HARMEET SINGH
Facility: SINGH PROPERTY 205 WESTSIDE AVE| Nctm #: 62-34-188 FREEPORT, NY 11520
Application ID: 1-2820-07812/00005
Permits(s) Applied for:
1 - Article 15 Title 5 Excavation & Fill in Navigable Waters 1Section 401 - Clean Water Act Water
Quality Certification
1 - Article 25 Tidal Wetlands
Project is located: in HEMPSTEAD in NASSAU COUNTY
Project Description: The applicant proposes to remove and replace 64 total linear feet of existing bulkhead. Construct the new bulkhead 12 feet landward and up to 18 inches higher than existing along with two additional bulkhead sections on the north and south property lines to connect to neighboring bulkheads. Construct 22 linear feet of new bulkhead across the existing 22-foot by 34-foot boat slip and fill the boat slip. The project will result in a
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE
State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) Determination Project is an Unlisted Action and will not have a significant impact on the environment. A Negative Declaration is on file. A coordinated review was not performed.
SEQR Lead Agency
None Designated State Historic Preservation Act (SHPA) Determination
A cultural resources survey has been completed and cultural resources were identified. Based on information provided in the survey report, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has determined that the proposed activity will have no adverse impact on registered or eligible archaeological sites or historic structures. No further review in accordance with SHPA is required. Coastal Management This project is located in a Coastal Management area and is subject to the Waterfront Revitalization and Coastal Resources Act. Availability For Public Comment Contact Person
Comments on this project must be KAITLYN SHERMAN submitted in writing to the Contact NYSDEC Person no later than 05/28/2026
SUNY @ Stony Brook |50 Circle Rd or 15 days after the publication date Stony Brook, NY 11790-3409 of this notice, whichever is later.
160152
Notice is hereby given that a public auction for a used vehicle sale will be held on May 26, 2026 on the website www.auctionsinternati onal.com. Bidders must register on website prior to bidding. Vehicles are sold “as is” condition and do not come with vehicle keys. Vehicles pictures and descriptions can be found on website when bid is live. Vehicles must be paid through the website prior to removal of vehicle. Vehicles are located at 390 E. Clinton Avenue, Roosevelt NY 11575. 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee; Gray; VIN: 1J4GR48K55C523371; Owner: Wayne Huey of 2832 Bruner Ave 1, Bronx, NY 10469 *2007 Kia Sedona; Gray; VIN: KNDMB233876173866; Owner: Renee McDonough of 157 59 27th Ave, Flushing, NY 11354
*2010 Chevrolet Equinox; Gray; VIN: 2CNALDEW4A6371649
; Owner: Boris Mizhquero-Yunga of 276 Mountain Grove St, Bridgeport, CT 06605
*2009 Chevrolet Malibu; Black; VIN: 1G1ZK57B59F169309; Owner: Glendon Cateau of 716 E. 45th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203
*2007 Dodge Sprinter; White; VIN: WD0PE845X75208525; Owner: Haim Tobaly of 21 Weyant Dr, Cedarhurst, NY 11516
*2004 Toyota Corolla; Blue; VIN: 2T1LR32E04C317785; Owner: Luis V. Peraltamorban of 1934 Harrison Ave 5E, Bronx, NY 10453
*2006 Lexus ES250; Black; VIN: JTHCK262382022200; Owner: Klein Georges of 185 Rutland Rd, Hempstead NY 11550
*2014 Audi AS4; Gray; VIN: WAUBGAFL5EA082964
; Owner: Dominique Blackman of 8400 Lindbergh Blvd Apt 716, Philadelphia PA 19153
*2010 Honda Accord; Black; VIN: 1HGCS2B85AA004466; Owners: Mike Eli Landaverde and C.L. Landaverde of 69 Hewlett St, Hempstead NY 11550
*2005 Nissan Altima; Red; VIN: 1N4AL11D75N900462; Owner: Timothy Wanser of 1141 Norbay St, Franklin Square NY 11010
*2016 Nissan Sentra; Gray; VIN: 3N1AB7AP1GY299861; Owner: Nissan Infiniti Lease Trust of PO Box 254648 Sacramento, CA 95865
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS Antonio Fanizzi Commissioner 160208
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 RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST LUIS M. CORDERO, ELIZABETH MATEUS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 9, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 18 Hotchkiss Place, 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, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 55 Block: 395 Lot: 75. Approximate amount of judgment $486,818.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614432/2022. Joseph M. Terino, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-001160 89820 160150
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 23, 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 June 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 234 Miller Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Freeport, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 162 and Lots 225 and 324. Approximate amount of judgment is $690,308.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605877/2023.
Patricia A. Rooney, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 223530-1 160126
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff -against-
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, vs. JAIME L. BARRESI AS ADMINISTRATRIX AND SOLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARYANN FROEHLE, ET AL., Defendant(s).
*2002 Acura MDX; Blue; VIN: 2HNYD188X2H530024; Owner: Zaynah Witter of 632 Nauer Ct, Elmont, NY 11003
Charlie Robinson, Jr., executor and beneficiary of the estate of Fennie Robinson, Travis S. Jones, if living and if he/she be dead, any and all persons who are spouses, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienor, heirs, devisees, distributees, or successors in interest of such of the above as may be dead, and their spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residences are unknown to Plaintiff, People of the State of New York, United States of America, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, TD Property Maintenance LLC, Terrell Hill, Commissioner of Social Services of NYC, North Shore University Hospital Clinical Practice Plan, Asset Servicing Corp dba ZapMyTax dba Property
With a May 16 strike deadline approaching, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and a coalition of LIRR unions continue negotiations over wages and work rules for more than 3,500 employees, as both sides remain divided despite ongoing talks.
Public Notices
Group, The LCF Group, Inc., People of the State of New York by Village of Mineola, and Nassau County Traffic and Parking Violation Agency, Defendants. Index No.: 611610/2023
Filed : May 6, 2026 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in whichthe mortgaged premises is situated.
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S):
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a
Mortgage to secure $50,000.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Nassau on October 01, 2007 in Liber Book M32382, Page 833 covering premises known as 61 Grenada Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575.
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
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
LIRR strike creeps closer as talks proceed
By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com
With less than a week remaining before a potential Long Island Rail Road strike set for midnight Saturday, negotiations between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and a coalition of rail unions remain ongoing, with both sides offering sharply different assessments of progress.
At the center of the dispute are pay and working conditions. Union leaders are seeking a retroactive 9.5% wage increase over the past three years and an additional 5% raise beginning this year.
The MTA, meanwhile, is offering raises but is also seeking changes to work rules and productivity standards in return, saying it must control costs and protect the system’s longterm financial stability.
The sides were scheduled to meet again on Monday.
FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Bay Shore, New York May 5, 2026
Frenkel, Lambert, Weisman & Gordon, LLP BY: Karen Sheehan, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100 Our File No.: 01-097057-F00 160203
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. BOARD OF MANAGERS OF YACHTSMAN’S COVE CONDOMINIUM, Pltf. , vs. JEAN VALLES, Deft. Index #614756/2025. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 30, 2026, I will sell at public auction on the Nort Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 11, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 531 Ray Street, Unit 4, Freeport, NY 11520 a/k/a Section 54, Block 315, Lot 446. The real property above described in a Unit shown on the Plans of a Condominium prepared and certified by Barrett, Bonacci and Van Weele. P.C., and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 17th day of January 2017, as Map No. 0285 defined
in the Declaration of Condominium entitled Yachtsman’s Cove Condominium made by Ray Street Commons LLC under Article 9-B of the New York Real Property Law dated January 17, 2017 and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 17th day of January, 2017 in Liber 13462 of Conveyances at Page 496; with the improvements therein contained situate and being a part of a Condominium in Village of Freeport, Nassau County and State of NY, known and designated as Home No. 4 together with a 4.1666% undivided interest in the Common Elements of the Condominium hereinafter described as the same is defined in the Declaration of Condominium. Approx. amt. of judgment is $ 15,217.25 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. SCOTT H. SILLER, Referee. JAY L. YACKOW, Attys. for Pltf., 355 Post Avenue, Ste. 201, Westbury, NY 11590. #102969 160189
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
ments that we’re still trying to negotiate out.”
Union leaders, however, said in a May 8 statement that negotiations made no progress and accused the MTA of failing to offer acceptable wage terms.
“What was presented did not move us closer to a settlement,” said Jeff Klein, general chairman of IBEW Local 589. “Every day, as a result of MTA’s phony surface bargaining, we move closer to the May 16 strike date.”
Shaun O’Connor, general chairman of IAM District 19, said talks have been slow-moving.
“We’re running out of time here,” he said. “The MTA is still showing a lack of urgency. We practically had to drag them back to the bargaining table this week and what they’ve offered can be best described as ‘too little, too late.’”
I do think progress has been made.
JANNo
The dispute involves more than 3,500 workers represented by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen; the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers–Transportation Division; the Transportation Communications Union/IAM; the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen; and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
LIeBeR CEO and Chairman, Metropolitan Transit Authority
Two Presidential Emergency Boards were convened between September 2025 and last March to help resolve the dispute. Both boards sided with the unions, rejecting the MTA’s proposed work rule changes and recommending wage increases, helping set the stage for the current standoff.
At a press conference in New York City on May 8, MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber said he believes progress has been made in negotiations but acknowledged a deal has not yet been reached.
“I do think progress has been made,” he said. “We had a very long meeting yesterday and I would say we are closer, although we’re not there yet.”
Lieber urged the unions to avoid a strike, warning of financial consequences for workers.
“At this point, we’re getting close enough that it would be, I think, crazy for the workforce who is looking for more money to throw it away by going on a strike,” he said. “Remember, if you go on a strike for a day, that’s one out of roughly 260 days of pay. Pretty quickly, that starts to wipe out the small incre-
Kevin Sexton, vice president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, said workers want a contract that reflects rising costs.
“Our members are very frustrated,” he said. “They have gone years without a raise, and they want the trains to keep moving. But they won’t agree to a concessionary contract when the cost of living on Long Island has dramatically increased.”
Lieber disputed those characterizations.
“I don’t think it’s accurate,” he said. “I don’t want to get into a debate. It’s their turn to come back and respond to the new proposals that have been put on the table.”
He also said the MTA has already put money on the table.
“It’s money in the pockets of the families that they represent,” Lieber said. “No one’s playing gimmicks, but we’ve got this money on the table. Don’t hurt your workforce. Let’s make a deal.”
The unions also held a rally May 9 at the Massapequa LIRR station as part of a “Day of Action to Protest MTA’s Inaction.”
In the event of a strike, the MTA said it would operate limited weekday shuttle bus service for essential workers and commuters unable to work remotely. Buses would run during peak travel hours between six Long Island locations — Bay Shore, Hempstead Lake State Park near the Lakeview train station, Hicksville, Huntington, Mineola and Ronkonkoma — and subway connection points in Queens, including the Howard Beach-JFK Airport A train station and the Jamaica-179 Street F train station.
Kyle Denson/Herald
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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
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Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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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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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or
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So, how did they build the pyramids?
Q. The question of how the pyramids were built came up in a recent discussion among friends. I’m wondering if there’s any definite answer to that question. One person said that even with hundreds of thousands of slaves, you’re only as strong as the rope can bear, and another suggested that they were built by extraterrestrials, but nothing serious came out of that. What do you know about this?
A. There are many theories about the construction of the pyramids. The Library of Alexandria may have contained this information, but was burned by Julius Caesar, accidentally, when he attacked the ships in the harbor nearby and the sprinkler system for the library (which had failed inspections) wasn’t working that day, or nobody ever made the drawings to begin with. We’ll never know the true answer, but there are many profound and wise engineering ideas on this subject. You may not be aware that there are more than 100 pyramids in Egypt alone, and many of them are still standing today.
So how did ancient Egyptians build them, using millions of blocks of Nile riverbank stone (and white limestone, dragged from much farther south, for the finishes)? How did they construct a 6.5-million-ton mountain of stone blocks, each weighing 2.5 tons, or 5,000 pounds, on sand? Several historical figures, pardon the pun, weighed in on this question.
The most prominent, Herodotus, of ancient Greece, who wasn’t there but is considered the father of historians, wrote of a machine system of levers and pulleys that lifted each block to the next level, and then another set of levers and pulleys was used for the next level, etc. I am fascinated by the writings of a more recent pair of writers, Matthys Levy and Mario Salvadori, who propose an idea, based on the dissection of pyramids that have, through recent history, been documented. In their book “Why Buildings Fall Down,” they describe and illustrate in sketches how stones were placed.
Imhotep, considered the greatest mathematician and engineer in Egyptian history, designed later-era pyramids, observing and calculating how to avoid previous failures. For his success with some of the largest mountains of stone, he was worshipped as a god in the ancient Egyptian culture. So, kids, stay in school.
What I believe Imhotep did was use gravity. The later pyramids were built in man-made valleys, where the stones could be moved down an incline and then set at a 52-degree angle. That way, instead of laying the stone horizontally, they pushed into each other on a downward incline, relieving vertical weight and reducing the stones’ ability to crush each other. Remember, Egyptians didn’t have block and tackle, didn’t use wheels to move heavy loads and didn’t have metal harder than copper. They had a lot of laborers, spent much less time watching TV or staring at their cellphones, and filled in each level of the valley as the pyramids grew in height. Great question!
© 2026 Monte Leeper
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We can’t solve a housing crisis with hypocrisy or politics
There is no question that Long Island is facing a housing crisis. The real question is whether we’re serious about solving it or just using it as another political talking point.
Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti has spent taxpayer dollars promoting misleading claims across social media, print ads and op-eds, attacking and sowing lies about initiatives that could bring real relief to thousands of families in the town. These are the same tired fear tactics designed to divide communities, stall progress and avoid real solutions.
That’s not just unproductive. It’s hypocritical. The same leadership that’s warning about overdevelopment has supported and approved major projects in Hempstead — projects that raise legitimate concerns about density, traffic, flooding and long-term community impact. You can’t rail against development with one breath while allowing it in your own backyard with the next. The only thing consistent about the town’s leadership is its inconsistency.
Housing has now been turned into a partisan weapon, when it should be a
shared responsibility. Meanwhile, the consequences are very real. Families are struggling to stay on Long Island. Seniors are being priced out of communities they spent decades building. Young people can’t afford to put down roots, let alone raise families.
These aren’t abstract policy debates. They’re everyday realities.
Yet instead of working across party lines to address these challenges, we see more political posturing and fear-based messaging. It raises a simple question: Is this really about solutions, or about scoring political points?
Tspeak out and raise valid concerns, only to end up feeling like those concerns were never part of the decision-making process.
Just ask the residents surrounding the Woodmere Country Club project, who filled Town Board meetings, pleading for an independent environmental review. They deserved to be heard. They deserved leadership willing to listen and act. Instead, they were ignored. That’s not good government.
his moment calls for leadership that is willing to rise above the noise and tell the truth.
In a recent op-ed, Ferretti claimed, “Albany is trying to strip away local control with automatic approval.” That statement isn’t just inaccurate; it’s inflammatory rhetoric that distracts from the real issue. Because beyond the slogans and news conferences, the question remains, Where is his plan?
The answer isn’t as simple as saying yes or no to development. And it’s certainly not found in blanket opposition or empty sound bites.
The answer is balance.
We need development that respects the voices of the community, not one that ignores them. We need decisions guided by real environmental-impact studies. Too often, residents show up,
We also need partnerships among municipalities, responsible developers and union labor to ensure that projects are done the right way. That means using local workers, maintaining high standards and making sure developments are sustainable for the long term, not just profitable in the short term.
Right now, too many decisions are driven by political relationships and donor interests rather than what’s best for residents.
If we’re going to talk about housing, let’s have an honest conversation. Not one driven by fear or partisan lines, but one grounded in transparency, accountability and a willingness to work together.
Because the housing crisis isn’t going away, and if we continue to treat it as a
political talking point instead of a real challenge, we will keep failing the very people we’re supposed to serve. There’s a better way forward. It starts with leadership that is willing to bring people to the table, including local officials, state partners, community leaders, developers and labor, and do the hard work of finding solutions that actually fit each community. Not onesize-fits-all mandates or blanket opposition, but thoughtful, community-driven planning.
A better way forward means engaging with developers early to ensure that projects reflect the needs of the neighborhoods they enter. It means working with unions to create good-paying local jobs and uphold the highest standards. And it means restoring transparency, so residents aren’t left guessing about decisions that shape their communities. Most important, it means putting people before politics. Because housing isn’t a partisan issue. It’s a human issue. This moment calls for leadership that is willing to rise above the noise, tell the truth, and make tough decisions rooted in what’s right for our communities. Because the choices we make now will define whether Long Island remains a place where families can build a future. One thing is clear: We need leaders ready to be part of the solution, or it’s time for them to step aside.
Joe Scianablo is the Democratic candidate for Town of Hempstead supervisor.
Knowledge is a key tool in the fight to stop scammers
Every day, scam artists are deploying an ever-evolving series of schemes to steal hardearned money from Nassau County residents. The most despicable examples of all are those targeting our seniors and the assets they have worked for a lifetime to earn.
Scammers seek to prey on our emotions — by scaring us with threats of lawsuits from the IRS, trying to blackmail us for money to keep them from disclosing embarrassing information and photos, or claiming that a grandchild or a loved one is in danger and needs money fast, or else something horrible will happen.
Text messages flood our phones with links to Amazon orders and UPS deliveries that don’t exist, fake “final enforcement notices” threatening to suspend our driver’s licenses if we don’t pay for nonexistent traffic violations, and more. They tug at our heartstrings as they
solicit donations for fake charities, try to get us to fall in love with nonexistent people — commonly known as “catfishing” — so you’ll send them money, and try to get you to act irrationally by claiming you’ve won a lottery — and then request a down payment to collect your prize.
ALocal businesses face threats as well. A recent bulletin from the Nassau County Department of Information Technology warns of Business Email Compromise attacks, which seek to trick their victims into authorizing fraudulent financial transactions. To pull it off, they either hack real email accounts or imitate the victim’s coworkers, vendors or customers to steal money and data.
true, it probably is. Remember these fundamentals to protect yourselves and your family.
Never share numbers or passwords for accounts, credit cards or Social Security.
s A.I. grows more sophisticated, scams become more difficult to detect.
The growing sophistication of artificial intelligence is making these scams more difficult to detect. According to the 2025 Microsoft Digital Defense Report, A.I.-generated phishing scams are nearly five times more likely to entice victims to click through than traditional attempts.
No matter how they go about it, one rule remains: If it sounds too good to be
Don’t click on unsolicited links or open QR codes in texts or emails.
Don’t call the number provided in a pop-up, text or email.
Beware when someone plays on your emotions, makes threats or claims there’s an urgent situation that you need to pay for immediately.
Never move money out of a bank account at the urging of someone on the phone.
If a caller claims there’s an issue with your bank account, hang up and call your bank.
When you receive a suspicious email, check its address. If it doesn’t match that of the organization it’s claiming to be, it’s a scam.
Scam emails often contain typos and are often written in a way that doesn’t match the style of whoever they’re impersonating.
Never pay up front for a promised
prize or financial windfall.
If a caller claims to be someone you know or a bank or business you work with, hang up and contact that person yourself.
If you do get scammed, predators are betting that you will be too embarrassed to call the police. Don’t let them win — there is no shame in being a victim, and your report can help protect others. Call 911 immediately, contact the state attorney general’s office by filing an online complaint or calling (800) 771-7755, or call Nassau County Crimestoppers at (800) 244-8477.
The good news is that by being prepared, learning about the techniques they use and keeping a level head, we can all do our part to stop these criminals in their tracks. Knowing the warning signs is half the battle. That’s why my office will continue to partner with local senior centers to host scam-prevention workshops, and will keep you informed about future sessions in which you can learn even more about how to protect yourselves and put these crooks out of business once and for all.
Debra Mulé, of Freeport, represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s alternate deputy minority leader.
May 19 decisions carry outsized local impact
long Islanders will be asked to make decisions on May 19 that quietly but profoundly shape their communities. From Amityville to Valley Stream and from Oyster Bay to Massapequa, voters will head to the polls to weigh in on public school district budgets, elect Board of Education trustees and, in several cases, decide funding for their local libraries.
These are not minor matters. Yet year after year, school district elections draw strikingly low turnout and are often decided by a small fraction of eligible voters. More often than not, only 5 to 10 percent of eligible voters cast ballots. That disconnect is hard to justify given the outsized influence these votes have on taxes, educational quality, public services and overall community health.
School budgets determine far more than what happens inside the classroom. They shape the volume of opportunities available to students — from arts and music programs to athletics and extracurricular activities — as well as spending on classroom instruction, staff salaries, employee benefits, school operations, transportation and specialized programs. The budgets, proposed by local school boards and voted on by residents, dictate the allocation of local property taxes, state aid and federal funding.
In districts where library budgets are on the ballot, these votes also impact access to books, technology, program-
ming and community space for residents of all ages.
Equally important are the elections for Board of Education trustees. These individuals are not figureheads; they are elected officials responsible for setting district policy, hiring and evaluating the superintendent, and establishing the annual budget. They ensure compliance with state education laws, manage district property and represent the community’s interests.
Their choices influence curriculum, long-term planning and how effectively taxpayer dollars are managed. The direction of a school district for years to come can hinge on who fills these seats. What makes these elections especially significant is how much can turn on so few votes. In many Long Island communities, multimillion-dollar spending plans and major capital projects are approved or rejected by narrow margins. A relative handful of ballots can alter the outcome. That reality means that every vote carries real weight, much more than in higher-profile elections where margins often stretch into the thousands or millions.
The 2006-07 Baldwin School District budget passed by only five votes. Last May, the Shelter Island School District spending plan fell just 40 votes short of the required 60 percent supermajority needed to pierce the state tax cap, A year earlier, only a few of Long Island’s 124 school districts, including Sachem and
West Babylon, had their budgets rejected. It is also a mistake to view these elections as relevant only to parents of school-aged children. Strong public schools are a cornerstone of vibrant communities. They help sustain property values, attract families, support local businesses and contribute to a shared sense of stability and pride. Libraries, too, serve as essential civic hubs, offering educational resources, workforce support and cultural programming that benefit entire neighborhoods.
Participation in these elections is not complicated, but it does require intention. Voters should take time to review the proposed budgets and any referendums, understand what is at stake and, if possible, attend public hearings or information sessions. These forums provide valuable insight into how decisions are made and where priorities lie. Most important, residents must show up. Local democracy is strongest when it reflects the voices of the many, not the few. When turnout is low, decisions that affect entire communities are left in the hands of a limited group of voters, weakening the representative nature of the process.
May 19 may not carry the fanfare of a national election, but its consequences are immediate and tangible. Those who participate will shape the future of Long Island’s schools, libraries and neighborhoods. That alone should be reason enough to make voting a priority.
It’s long past time to recognize the Montauketts
in March, the State Assembly unanimously passed — yes, even in these polarized times, it unanimously passed — a bill sponsored by Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni providing for reinstatement and acknowledgement of the Montaukett Indian Nation.
The bill has now gone to the State Senate, which, like the Assembly, has overwhelmingly passed it seven times. Yes, seven times. But Gov. Kathy Hochul has vetoed it four times. And her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, a fellow Democrat, vetoed it three times.
“The people of the Montaukett Indian Nation are a rich part of the Long Island community,” declared a statement issued by Schiavoni’s office. But “After several attempts to advance legislation that would recognize and acknowledge the Montauketts, New York State has continued with the precedent set in 1910 to deny them their right of existence in the eyes of the state. Despite the 1910 Pharaoh v. Benson case when the court declared them to be extinct while their leaders and 75
members of the nation sat in the courtroom, the Montaukett Indian Nation has continued to thrive and govern itself. The wrongful removal of their state recognition remains uncorrected.”
Schiavoni, a Sag Harbor Democrat, joined the Assembly in January 2025.
The 2026 Montaukett recognition measure, and earlier bills, were sponsored in the Senate by Anthony Palumbo, a Republican from New Suffolk. One of them passed the Senate, 50 to 1, last year.
The Indian nation has been dissed by no fewer than seven vetoes by two governors.
In her veto message about that bill in December, Hochul again pointed to the 1910 ruling in Pharaoh v. Benson. In it, State Supreme Court Justice Abel Blackmar sided with the descendants of Arthur Benson, a developer, in awarding them Montaukett tribal lands. Hochul said there were still “outstanding questions and issues concerning the Montauketts’ eligibility for recognition, according to traditional criteria.”
Schiavoni succeeded Fred W. Thiele Jr., a member of the Assembly for nearly 30 years, who sponsored the earlier Montaukett measures in the Assembly.
After Hochul cited Pharoah v. Benson in a veto of the 2023 bill, Thiele, a Sag Harbor Democrat, said he was shocked
Framework by Tim Baker
that the governor would reference that ruling, which he described as “one of the most racist decisions in the history of New York jurisprudence. The prior vetoes were unfortunate but the language in this one was stunning. To take the Benson case, which has language in it that would embarrass the Proud Boys, and hold that up as the justification for this veto is just crazy. Instead of rejecting the noxious rationale of Benson, [Hochul’s] veto affirmed it. I am ashamed of our state government.”
The case focused on an effort by the Montaukett chief, Wyandank Pharoah, to undo the taking of Montauk lands by Benson. As Newsday’s Mark Harrington noted in his coverage of the 2025 Hochul veto: “Newsday in a 1998 investigation found that the process by which developers and the Long Island Rail Road annexed Montaukett and Shinnecock Indian Nation lands over the past 200 years was rife with ‘deceit, lies and possible forgery.’”
There is a passage in the vetoed 2025 bill — and in the current and prior measures — stating that Blackmar’s “arbitrary ruling ignored earlier U.S. Supreme Court decisions defining Indian Nations according to criteria under
which the Montaukett Indian Nation qualified as an existing sovereign tribe and giving Congress, rather than the courts, power to decide [its] status.”
The Montaukett situation has attracted attention beyond Long Island. A New York Post article on Hochul’s December veto quoted Sandra BrewerWalker, executive director of the Montaukett Indian Nation, saying, “The governor just doesn’t get it — she lacks an understanding of Native American history and is upholding an illegal, racist ruling.”
On the floor of the Senate, Palumbo has decried the ruling in the Pharoah v. Benson case, which he termed “likely racist” and spoke of how the tribe “was recognized for years prior” to the case. He declared, “Now is the time to correct this injustice and provide the Montaukett Indian Nation with the status they deserve.”
The Montauketts were one of the original great tribes of Long Island — and they’re still here. Peter Pharaoh, a proud Montaukett, was a journalism student of mine. They thoroughly deserve the restoration of their recognition.
Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
At the Town of Hempstead’s Rock Hall Museum, an affiliate of the Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities — Lawrence
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