Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 04-06-2023

Jabbing for JAR of Hope

Meet three Elmont women of distinction

By ANA BoRRUTo aborruto@liherald.com

Three inspiring women from Elmont were honored as Women of Distinction by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages at Sewanhaka High School on March 19.

The event celebrated the community contributions, acts of outstanding leadership and grass-roots efforts of 12 female recipients in Solages’ 22nd Assembly District.

Savitre Ferdinand, an Elmont resident for over 20 years, is a health care worker and a founder of a nonprofit — as well as a supportive mother of her two children, Stefan and Selene, in their pageantry and Boy Scout endeav-

ors.

Ferdinand launched a nonprofit organization with 10-yearold Selene called Meera Empowerment, which encourages selfconfidence in kids in the Elmont community by teaching them life skills and lessons. The organization also raises funds to award scholarships to local high school students, collects donations for toy drives during the holidays, and supports community service efforts organized by elected leaders.

Meera Empowerment events

Ferdinand has put together have included fashion shows, tea parties and classes in which children are taught how to cook, sew

Continued on page 6

Student ambassadors to learn about the working world

By ANA BoRRUTo aborruto@liherald.com

The Gift of Giving Foundation inducted more than 20 students from Sewanhaka and Elmont high schools into the organization’s student ambassador program on March 30 — the largest group to be bestowed with such an honor.

Elizabeth Forbes, founder of the Gift of Giving Foundation, launched the program as a way to help young individuals visualize their career goals for the future through volunteering for local businesses, neighborhood groups and nonprofits.

Through these community

relationships, the goal is for students to understand that they just need to take the first step to embrace all opportunities for success.

“My last year in high school, I had no clue about the big world I was about to enter — I had no knowledge or excitement about the new path ahead of me,” Forbes said. “Our future generations should be ready to take on the big world rather than secondguess the path ahead of them.”

Jessica Brown, director of the student ambassador program and Forbes’ niece, is a recent graduate of Iona College with a degree in media and strategic communications. Brown has

been part of the program since the beginning, when it only enrolled a handful of students.

After seeing how many young people took the ambassador’s oath at the induction ceremony, Brown said the growth shows the positive impact the program is making.

“I think all of us have a sense of confusion when thinking about our futures,” Brown said.

“It makes me proud to be a part of the program and makes me happy to see how excited (the students) all get when the program starts.”

Guidance counselors select the students, and once they are inducted into the ambassador

program, they are expected to visit participating businesses on a weekly basis.

For the next eight weeks, the teens will learn the ins and outs of the workforce firsthand from several business leaders in a variety of fields, including law enforcement, nonprofit work, retail, design, the restaurant industry and more, according to

Forbes and Brown.

The ambassadors earn up to 15 to 20 hours of community service through the program.

This spring’s lineup of mentors include Belimage.com, the POP Squad, Architectural Sign Group, 718 Solar, Guggin Café, Island Harvest, Queen of Hearts, A2Z Automasters and Four VilContinued on page 4

Keith Rossein/Herald

Jim Raffone, the founder of JAR of Hope, and CKO Kickboxing owner Jennifer Settino organized a kickboxing marathon to raise money for muscular dystrophy research. Story, more photos, Page 3.

How to celebrate Passover

mandated by the Bible, Passover is celebrated by Jewish people as an annual commemoration of the Exodus from Egypt. It is observed for eight days — seven in Israel — during the springtime month of Nisan.

Jewish people can neither own nor benefit from chametz — which is anything containing grain that has risen, including virtually all breads, cakes, crackers, pastas, whiskeys and beers — from the morning preceding Passover until the holiday has ended.

The entire home is thoroughly cleaned, all traces of chametz are purged from the kitchen and whatever remains is sold to a non-Jew for the duration of the holiday.

On the first night of Passover and the following night in the Diaspora, a festive meal called a Seder is held. Here are some highlights of this meal, which comprises 15 steps:

■ Retelling the story of the Exodus, elaborating on the text contained in the Haggadah, the traditional guide-book to the Seder experience. This begins in response to the Four Questions — or Ma Nishtana — traditionally asked by a child.

When is Passover?

Passover 2023 will be celebrated from April

5 to April 13. The first Seder will be on April 5 after nightfall, and the second Seder will be on April 6 after nightfall.

Eating matzah — a flat, hard “bread” that was baked before it had a chance to rise — to recall our ancestors’ urgent flight from Egypt. They left in such a hurry that there was no time for their bread to rise.

■ Eating bitter herbs to re-experience the bitter taste of slavery.

■ Throughout the evening, drinking four cups of wine or grape juice, imbibing the intoxicating sweetness of freedom.

■ The first, second, seventh and eighth days of the holiday — just the first and seventh in Israel — are yom tov, when work is restricted and festive meals are enjoyed. On the final day, the memorial prayer for our departed loved ones called Yizkor is said, and a special “Moshiach’s Meal” is enjoyed during the waning hours of the holiday, in anticipation of the Redemption yet to come.

Chaim Blachman is the rabbi of the Elmont Jewish Center. He can be reached by email at rabbi. ejc@gmail.com.

Kessel steps down from the IDA

At the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency’s March 30 meeting, chairman Richard Kessel announced he would be stepping down from his position.

Kessel, 73, of Merrick, was a longtime chairman of the Long Island Power Authority, chairman of the state Power Authority and executive director of the state Consumer Protection Board. A Democrat, he was appointed to the IDA five years ago by now former County Executive Laura Curran. He continued to serve the agency under her successor, Bruce Blakeman.

The IDA, which grants tax breaks to expanding businesses and housing projects, has two vacancies with Kessel’s departure. Current board members include John Coumatos, Victor LaGreca, William Rockensies and Reginald Spinello.

Blakeman is responsible for appointing board members, who

then elect IDA officers.

At the meeting, Kessel thanked both Curran and Blakeman for their support during his time as chairman, and added that despite his departure from the IDA, he hoped to remain active in government.

“I want to thank all the board members here tonight,” he said. “I am very fortunate to have worked with some terrific board members now, and in the past.”

Kessel also thanked union members and property developers, and called the work of the IDA a “team effort.”

“I’ve had a lot of fun,” he said. “I may go to something else, I like public service. We’ll see what happens going forward.”

The IDA is expected to elect a new chairman at its upcoming meeting on April 27. For meeting news, visit NassauIDA.org.

–Jordan Vallone

Rabbi Chaim blaChman

Richard Kessel

A kickboxing marathon for a cause

Over $10k raised for research of rare genetic disorder

CKO Kickboxing in Franklin Square hosted a kickboxing marathon on April 1 to benefit Duchenne muscular dystrophy research — a rare genetic disorder most commonly found in children.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy causes progressive muscle degeneration, primarily in boys. A majority of them are wheelchair bound by age 13 and many with the disease don’t live past their early twenties.

To raise funds to improve research for the extremely rare childhood disease, Jennifer Settino, owner of CKO Kickboxing at 893 Hempstead Turnpike, organized a two hour-long kickboxing marathon with 26, roughly three-minute rounds — with a half-minute between each round.

Participants were asked to pledge at $300 each to donate to JAR of Hope. Settino said 20 individuals raised roughly $10,715 — and donations are still coming in.

“The reason I opened my gym in the first place was to help people,” Settino said. “And I can’t think of anything more helpful than saving the lives of children.”

Roughly 300,000 boys are affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy globally and 17,000 children in the United States alone, according to JAR of Hope.

Statistically, this means between 150 to 180 children on Long Island, said JAR of Hope founder Jim Raffone in a news release.

Raffone was inspired to create his non-profit organization 10 years ago, after receiving the news his son, Jamesy, had Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Jamesy is now 13-years-old and continues to be an inspiration to many people around the world.

Although the disease has no cure, foundations such as JAR of Hope raise funds to donate to research efforts and organize awareness campaigns to spread the word.

–Ana Borruto

Keith Rossein/Herald photos

Instructor Love constant, center, motivated the roughly 40 participants during the marathon, which lasted over two hours. They were also asked to pledge at least $300 each to donate to JAR of Hope.

MIcheLLe sanchez, Left, and Jose Camacho, right, from West Hempstead give their best jabs during the CKO kickboxing marathon in Franklin Square on April 1.

eMILy GaLLaGher, Left, Christine Braun and Donna Godfrey were all smiles at the kickboxing marathon.

town of heMpstead Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll, left, and Councilman Tom Muscarella, right, ‘gloved up’ for the kickboxing marathon in Franklin Square.

Protecting Your Future

with Michael and Suzanne Ettinger Attorneys-at-Law

Powers of Attorney Are for Everyone

What happens if you have an accident or an illness whereby you are unable to handle your legal and financial affairs? Many people incorrectly believe their spouse is legally able to handle their affairs. Similarly, a parent has no legal authority to handle the affairs of a child, once the child attains the age of majority – eighteen years.

Without a power of attorney, you would have to apply to a court to be named a legal guardian. These proceedings are expensive, time-consuming and fraught with peril. The judge has no obligation to name the spouse or parent as legal guardian and may appoint a stranger. For example, the judge may feel that the spouse or parent has a conflict in that they are the beneficiary of the incapacitated person’s assets, or the judge may decide that someone else has more knowledge and experience in handling such matters.

Who should you choose as your “agent”? In our experience, the vast majority of powers of attorney name the spouse first and one or more of the children second. While on its face this seems reasonable, experience has shown it may not

be a good idea. We often need to use the power of attorney when the client is quite elderly and infirm. Often, so is the spouse at that time. Son or daughter wants to step in and help out with bill paying, etc. only to find they are unable to use the power of attorney for dad unless they can prove that mom can’t.

How do you prove she can’t? First you have to get the doctor to write a letter that mom is unable to handle her legal and financial affairs. Will the doctor write the letter? Will the letter be clear and unequivocal? Will each of the third parties you have to deal with accept the letter? These are not easy hurdles to overcome.

We believe there is a better way. We simply say either mom, or son, or daughter may act as agent. The problem is eliminated. You are protected from son or daughter misusing the power of attorney by the fact that they do not have the document – you keep it in your possession and make it available if and when they need to use it. Bottom line: all adults should have a power of attorney.

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Requirements : Must have knowledge of printing techniques, understanding basic ink/water balance, press quality standards; Three (3) years of Press Operator experience is preferred; Demonstrated mechanical ability; Able to climb ladders to 2nd level of press repeatedly and work long hours on feet performing repetitive tasks.

Qualified candidates can send their resume to careers@liherald.com or call (516) 569.4000 x239

Forbes,

Ana

ambassador program Director Jessica Brown, Mondy Oliver and Kimani Forbes shared their experiences with the program and talked about its positive impact on the students’ personal and professional growth.

Forging career paths with community connections

continued from front page

lage Studio.

“They get a chance to really learn about stuff they might not have even dabbled in before,” Brown said.

At the induction ceremony, held at Sewanhaka High School, Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages and Town Councilman Tom Muscarella congratulated the students as they embark on this educational experience. They also commended the students for showing incredible leadership in school and in their community.

Dorah Naissant, a junior at Elmont High School, joined the Gift of Giving Foundation in October, calling it an “amazing experience.”

“It feels like I am with my family when I’m here and with Ms. Elizabeth,” Naissant said. “It’s taught me a lot about the real world. It also helped me choose which career path I want to go to.”

Kimani Forbes, a senior at Sewanhaka High School, thanked his mentors at A2Z Automasters for sparking his interest in car mechanics.

“The program has opened my mind to future endeavors and possibilities,” he said. “As a young man who is into cars, I was able to get hands-on experience with very knowledgeable people.”

Meet the student ambassadors

Leah evelyn — 12th grade

Kimani Forbes — 12th grade

Paola Andrea Horta _ 12th grade

Linsey Alexis swift — 12th grade

Tayshena Mya baltazard — 11th grade

Ihiem blackwell — 11th grade

Andrew Forbes — 11th grade

robert Gerrato — 11th grade

Jessica Kaur Janjua — 11th grade

derrick Louis — 11th grade

dorah naissant — 11th grade

blessing Ayokunle olawo — 11th grade

Mondy oliver -— 11th grade

Ava Catherine Peterkin — 11th grade

Aafia Ahmed — 11th grade

Immanuel devera berna — 10th grade

Cherechi dumaga — 10th grade

Zyddon Powell — 10th grade

reya Areanna ramlagan — 10th grade

Gabriella rivera — 10th grade

MAIN

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/franklinsquare

Borruto/Herald Andrew

FAr left, Dorah Naissant, Gift of Giving founder Elizabeth Forbes, student

Sewanhaka addresses few security concerns Parents

share worries following Nashville school shooting

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

With the spate of school shootings still prominent across the country, the superintendent of the Sewanhaka Central High School District recently addressed concerns from parents about the safety of students in the district.

With incidents of violence still reeling in their minds, concerned parents asked school officials at a Sewanhaka board of education meeting on March 28 what security measures are in place to ensure students’ security.

“Anything can happen anywhere at any time,” superintendent James Grossane said at the meeting. “Everything that we can be doing at this time, I believe the district has been doing — we are as safe as we can be.”

About 130 mass shootings have been reported across the country thus far in 2023 — 39 of which have occurred on school grounds, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database.

On March 27, an armed individual shot and killed six people —three children and three staff members — at a private Christian school in Nashville, Tenn.

Closer to home, a 13-year-old student was recently stabbed by another student at Lindenhurst Middle School.

According to the Sewanhaka Central

High School District 2022-23 safety plan, in an active shooter or any emergency event, building principals, assistant principals and deans can bypass all 911 calls and launch an emergency response by local law enforcement with just a push of a button on their cell phones.

Grossane said police officers in the local precincts can grant themselves access to the school building at a moment’s notice through provided key cards. Law enforcement in the area also

has a map of the building and rights to all of the school’s security cameras to identify any possible threat in the building.

The vestibules installed throughout the district are a “simple stop-gap” for security to confirm visitors are supposed to be in the building, Grossane said. They are also made of bullet-resistant glass.

The high school is also on permanent lockout and visitors can only come through one entrance.

One capital improvement project

TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

RATE & A HALF TO GET A

included in the 2023-24 school budget proposal is a district wide security camera upgrade. One past upgrade was installing lock systems on all classroom doors.

In his interactions with Homeland Security and 40 years in education, Grossane said he has been told the best deterrent in an active shooting situation is a locked classroom.

“One of the things that I saw that really disturbed me on the police officers’ body cams was the fact that doors were unlocked,” Grossane said. “Our doors are locked.”

Many news outlets reported it took police at least 14 minutes to arrive at the Nashville school. Grossane said in practice drills, the police can get to Sewanhaka High School in roughly two or three minutes.

The board has considered implementing armed guards in the district’s schools, but has not moved forward with any decision.

In addition to improving security, Grossane said the district has hired additional support staff, social workers, guidance counselors and school psychologists to work with students, especially those who might be struggling.

“I want to tell you nothing will ever happen, but I can’t,” Grossane said. “We’ve really tried to secure the building as much as we can.”

Christina Daly/Herald file

SUpeRiNTeNdeNT JAmeS GROSSANe detailed the security measures Sewanhaka Central High School District has implemented to ease worried parents about student safety.

Three are honored for community contributions

continued from front page

and more.

Ferdinand said she has an “old school” mentality and believes children can empower themselves and strengthen their voices by building relationships, having access to education and getting involved in community activities.

“(I think we) should empower them to build confidence because what’s going on right now is, all kids want to do is sit in front of a device, they don’t know how to socialize,” Ferdinand said. “Advising kids is a blessing — when they grow up, they can do the same thing and give back.”

Ferdinand has served on the Dutch Broadway Elementary School PTA Board for the past seven years and is currently its president. She is a Title I Board member, a Girl Scout leader and an ambassador for the Elmont Strong organization.

She also supports and volunteers for various charity groups such as Island Harvest, the Ronald McDonald House, MidIsland YJCC and the Elmont Memorial High School food drive. She said one of her greatest joys is being able to give back to the Elmont community.

Miguerlande Maitre, who owns IamNubian luxury hair salon in Elmont, was named a Woman of Distinction for her success in the beauty and cosmetology industry.

Maitre immigrated to the United States from Haiti at the age of 14. After discovering her passion for hair at a young age, she enrolled in cosmetology school after graduating from high school.

After many years working in the field, Maitre opened the doors to her very own storefront. Whether it’s offering protective hair styling or encouraging clients to wear their natural hair, Maitre said her mission with IamNubian is to help boost Black women’s confidence.

“I have the opportunity to make everyone sitting in my chair feel great about themselves — each and every one of them has a different story, but they all just want to look and feel great,” Maitre said in a

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news release. “I am lucky enough to help them accomplish that.”

Born in Bangladesh and growing up in Pakistan, Shadma Ibrahim said she has been working since the age of 15. She immigrated to the United States in 2000.

Ibrahim started out working in healthcare to provide for her family, balancing work with raising children. In the meantime, she discovered her passion for business and decided to jumpstart her own ventures. Today, she co-owns Halal N Out restaurant in Elmont and a health technology company.

As a Woman of Distinction, Ibrahim was recognized as a role model to her two daughters and other South Asian women. She has earned the recognition for her dedication to giving back to communities in Long Island and Queens.

Ibrahim has educated young girls in hygiene and safety and helped present puppet shows in a theatre group that serves low-income communities.

She also doesn’t shy away from celebrating South Asian heritage and has hosted cultural events such as a handmade jewelry showcase highlighting Afghan women refugees in Pakistan.

“Being a woman in business, it is so much harder to be heard and recognized,” Ibrahim said. “I truly appreciate the effort made by Assemblywoman Solages to recognize the work we put in our community.”

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Keith Rossein/Herald Miguerlande Maitre, left, was given a proclamation by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages at the Women of Distinction ceremony.

Hofstra sets sights on CAA softball crown

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra softball entered year two of the Adrienne Clark era determined for a better finish after a heartbreaking end to the 2022 season.

Clark, former standout softball player for the Pride from 2002 to 2005, led her alma mater to a second place finish in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) before the season ended suddenly with two one-run losses in the conference playoffs. This spring the Pride will have a chance to compete for the program’s first CAA title and automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament since 2018 in front of its home fans when Hofstra hosts the league’s tournament for the first time in 10 years.

“There’s nothing lat Pride Rock and getting that home field advantage,” said Clark, who was an assistant coach at Hofstra from 2012 to 2014 before holding coaching positions at Connecticut and Purdue. I do think it adds a little bit of extra motivation to want to make sure that we’re doing everything we can to put ourselves in a position to be there at the conference tournament.”

The Pride jumped out to a 5-1 start in league play this season beginning with a

sweep of CAA newcomer Stony Brook on March 18-19. Hofstra then took two of three against another CAA addition, Monmouth last weekend capped with a 3-0 home win on March 26.

The bulk of last year’s roster returned led by senior center fielder Chelsea Manto, who led the team with a .358 batting average along with 21 stolen bases to earn First-Team All CAA accolades. Graduate student shortstop Meghan Giordano, brings power to the lineup after smashing seven home runs last season

Graduate student second baseman Kasey Collins leads the team in hitting with a .309 average in her final season of collegiate baseball. Junior catcher Becca Vaillancourt, a UMass-Lowell transfer, and graduate student first baseman Angelina Ioppolo were also among Hofstra’s leading hitters heading into April.

Hofstra’s lineup has a strong local presence that includes the sister duo of junior Brianna Morse and freshman Alanna Morse, who both starred at Mepham High School in North Bellmore. Brianna Morse knocked in four runs in Hofstra’s 6-5 win over Monmouth on March 24 while Alanna registered two RBIs in the team’s 4-1 victory at Stony Brook on March 19.

“I remember having them come to games when I was an assistant coach here and they they loved everything about the game of softball and Hofstra so it’s so cool to now see them living out what was once a childhood dream to them,” Clark said. “They are phenomenal athletes and even better people.”

Amanda Maffucci, a graduate student outfielder and Kennedy High School (Bellmore) product, is coming off a senior season in which she batted .300 to earn Second Team All CAA honors. Sophomore Anna Butler, a former three-time All Nassau County selection at Seaford High School, is also playing college softball in her backyard and recorded a pinch-hit RBI in a 3-2 win against Holy Cross on March 4.

The pitching staff is led by Nikki Mullin, Haley Venturini and Julia Apsel. All three are capable starters who Clark can turn to for key games based on who is pitching their best.

“We are really fortunate to have a staff of some really phenomenal pitchers that all bring something different to the table,” said Clark, who was a standout pitcher for the Pride in her playing days. “We spend a lot of time focusing on the staff element and not the individuality behind it, which we do because the message and the mindset and philosophy behind that is that it’s going to take all of them to be able to win a conference championship and all of

them will contribute along the way.”

After a road series at CAA newcomer North Carolina A&T, Hofstra returns to Bill Edwards Stadium on April 7 for a doubleheader against Towson starting at 1 p.m. Hofstra will also be home for a three-game series versus Elon on April 22-23 and Delaware April 29-30.

Hofstra will host the CAA Tournament for the first time since winning the conference title in 2013 from May 9-13.

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletic Communications

GRADuAtE stuDENt shORtstOp Meghan Giordano, brings power to the lineup after smashing seven home runs last season.

MEphAM pRODuCt BRiANNA Morse drove in four runs in the Pride’s win over Monmouth March 24.

Herald newspapers honored with state awards

Herald Community Newspapers took home nine state awards at the New York Press Association’s annual Better Newspaper Contest last weekend in Albany.

Long-time sports editor Tony Bellissimo earned first place in the sports feature category for his touching story of Dunia Sibomana’s amazing path from a victim of a near-fatal wild chimpanzee attack in the Congo, to an honor roll student — and a Nassau County wrestling champion — from Long Beach Middle School.

“Amazing story,” said one of the judges from the Colorado Press Association, which judged this year’s competition. “I couldn’t believe it as I read it. An incredible journey the young kid has been on.”

Sibomana was just 6 when the chimpanzees attacked his family near Virunga National Park, killing both his brother and cousin. Sibomana survived, but his lips were torn off, his cheek was lacerated, and he suffered muscle damage that made it hard to swallow or talk.

He has since undergone more than a dozen surgeries, beginning at Stony Brook University Children’s Hospital in 2016, to restore his appearance and facial functions.

Herald photo editor Tim Baker won two awards for his pictures — feature photo and sports feature photo, both for the East Meadow Herald.

Baker’s photo of Andy Butera, captured in an emotional moment as the East Meadow Fire Department and American Legion Post 1082 celebrated his 100th birthday with a drive-by parade.

“Just perfect composition. Great lighting, and (Butera’s) face tells a story all itself. Raw emotion.”

Baker also earned honors for his photo of Peter Hawkins and Greg Waxman, who raced 50 miles through Malverne as part of “Operation Hero,” a charity event for veterans and first responders.

The Long Beach Herald — edited by

mention for the Past Presidents’ Award for General Excellence.

“The classified layout was very nice, as was the emphasis on community and culture,” judges said. “The pictures and art were very good.”

Laura Lane, senior editor for the Glen Cove Herald, won second place for her obituary coverage.

“Wonderful ledes take a reader straight into the stories of these two people’s lives,” the judges said about Lane’s stories high lighting the lives of Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor James Foote as well as Glen Cove teenager Penny Doerge.

The Franklin Square/Elmont Herald team of Robert Traverso, Ana Borruto, Brian Pfail and Kepherd Daniel earned an honorable mention for education coverage.

“The stories do not shy away from controversial issues, reporting them well and providing context and depth as to why the community should care,” the judges said. “The energy and thoughtfulness of the reporting shows in the coverage. Keep up the great local journalism.”

Herald art director Jeffrey Negrin won a pair of first places for best special section cover for the chain’s Great Homes special section, and best multi-advertiser pages for a Halloween-themed section for the Merrick Herald.

And the Nassau Herald won third place for advertising excellence, honoring Herald sales vice president Rhonda Glickman.

“The press room, production, finance, editorial, marketing and sales team all together put out great newspapers 52 weeks a year,” Glickman said. “So great for our team to be recognized for the work we do, and bring home awards.”

Stuart Richner, publisher of Herald Community Newspapers, said it’s “always a great honor to be recognized by our peers in the newspaper industry.”

“Congratulations to all our winners. But our real reward is making sure our readers get the best and most complete news in their neighborhood each and every week.”

EXECUTIVES

Karen Bloom/Herald

SOmE OF ThE winners who were in Albany for this past weekend’s New York Press Association Better Newspaper Contest awards include, from left, photo editor Tim Baker, sales vice president Rhonda Glickman, executive editor Michael Hinman, Glen Cove Herald senior editor Laura Lane, Long Beach Herald senior reporter Brendan Carpenter, Franklin Square/Elmont Herald senior reporter Ana Borruto, and Riverdale Press editor Gary Larkin.

Jewish people recognize oppression and liberation

During the Festival of Passover, the Bible commands that the Jewish people eat unleavened bread, matzo, for seven days. We are further instructed to remove all leavening from our homes during this period.

What does matzo have to do with the essential narrative of Passover — liberation from Egypt? The Bible gives us an answer.

Because our ancestors left Egypt in haste, the dough they prepared for the journey was not able to rise, and so it baked in the sun unleavened, without rising. Thus, the Bible connects matzo to the Exodus — it is a reminder of how quickly our ancestors were forced to leave Egypt.

But there is more to the story. If one studies the history of bread making, one discovers that the Egyptians discovered the capacity for dough to rise, if left alone for a while prior to baking. Wheat naturally has yeast on its grains, and if the hull of the wheat grain is not removed prior to milling, wheat mixed with and turned into dough will rise all by itself!

Since the experience of slavery was so oppressive to the Jewish people, without much explanation, the Bible prohibits the eating of “Egyptian bread” — risen bread — in celebrating the liberation from Egypt.

At our ritual meal at the beginning of the Festival, the Seder, we hold up the matzo at the very beginning of the Seder and refer to it as

Flashfood is rolling out at LI Stop & Shops

Stop & Shop is continuing its partnership with Flashfood, a digital marketplace that significantly reduces food waste at the retail level by connecting consumers with discounted food nearing its best by date.

the “poor” bread, or the bread of “affliction,” which our ancestors ate in Egypt. What? The Bible tells us they ate matzo on the way out of Egypt. It never mentions eating matzo in Egypt.

Bread making, prior to modern times, was an all-day affair. One starting by grinding the wheat, then mixing it with water, letting it rise for several hours and then baking it. Since there were not preservatives, bread did not last very long before it became moldy, and so fresh bread was made every day!

Surely the Jewish people in Egypt did not have time to engage in this process, so they must have eaten unleavened bread in Egypt as well.

The message of the matzo is twofold: It represents our oppression in Egypt, and it represents our liberation from that oppression. At the Seder, when we hold up the matzo at the beginning of the ritual, we invite all those who are hungry to join us.

Thus, matzo acquires an additional meaning. It is a reminder to share our bounty with others, particularly those who are still oppressed by poverty and hunger.

Art Vernon is the rabbi of Congregation Shaaray Shalom. He brings more than 25 years of experience in Jewish education to the congregation. He can be reached at shaarayrabbi@gmail. com.

It has expanded the availability of the program, with over 30 new Flashfood participating locations on Long Island.

Since partnering with Stop & Shop in 2021, over 30,000 shoppers across the northeast have used Flashfood, resulting in nearly $500,000 in grocery savings and more than 233,000 pounds of food being saved from ending up in landfills.

With over 30 stores in Long Island now offering Flashfood, sales through the app will further decrease food waste in the region.

With Flashfood, shoppers save up to 50 percent off items nearing their best-by date, such as meats, dairy, seafood, fresh produce, baked goods, and more.

Shoppers conveniently browse and buy discounted items directly through the Flashfood app on their mobile phone, and then simply pick up their order from the Flashfood Zone located inside their participating store.

“Providing value and variety to our customers with a focus on reducing our carbon footprint is at the forefront of what we do,” regional vice president of operations Tarik Stewart said, “We’re proud to now offer the Flashfood marketplace to

our Long Island, New York customers to help offer sustainable shopping options with ways to also save significantly on groceries.”

Stop & Shop’s expansion throughout New York is part of the grocer’s 2023 rollout plans to make Flashfood available at more than 300 Stop & Shop locations across the northeast.

To learn more about Flashfood, visit Flashfood.com.

Courtesy Stop & Shop Stop & Shop is expanding the availability of the Flashfood program, rolling it out at over 30 Long Island stores throughout 2023.

PRESENTS

FIGHTING AGAINST FRAUD: Learn the 411 on Recognizing a Scam

Help protect yourself from fraud and scams! This FREE webinar series will cover identity theft, elder fraud abuse and how to recognize the warning signs. Representatives from AARP Long Island and United States Postal Inspectors will also provide information about scams targeting people age 50-plus and their families, tactics fraudsters use, and resources available to help prevent fraud.

Advance registration is required.

THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2023

12-1PM

IDENTITY THEFT:

Each year thousands of Americans fall victim to Identity (ID) Theft. Consumers reported losing nearly $8.8 Billion to scams in 2022. This webinar will focus on:

• Understanding Personal Identifiable Information (PII)

• Scams that target your PII

• Tips to safeguard your identity

REGISTER at www.LIHERALD.com/identity

THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023

12-1PM

ELDER FRAUD ABUSE:

Con artists don’t really care about your age or your needs. Their only goal is to separate you from your hard-earned money. Learn how to recognize scams. We’ll cover:

• Grandparent or Relative in Need scams

• Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

• Investment Scams

REGISTER at www.LIHERALD.com/elder

FREE AARP LONG ISLAND IN-PERSON SHREDDING EVENTS

Shred your personal and financial documents at a location near you. Register and reserve your spot for a FREE drive-through contactless shredding event. (Limit 3 bags per car)

SATURDAY APRIL 22, 2023

10AM-1PM • IN-PERSON

LOCATION:

Nassau Community College

One Education Drive • Garden City, NY (Entrance to parking lot at Miller Place)

REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredGardenCity

SATURDAY MAY 6, 2023

• IN-PERSON

LOCATION: Michael J Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Avenue • New Hyde Park, NY

REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredNewHydePark

SATURDAY MAY 20, 2023

LOCATION: Farmingdale Library 116 Merritts Road • Farmingdale, NY

REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredFarmingdale

Michael Hinman Executive Editor Herald Community Newspapers SPEAKERS

Michael V. Del Giudice Postal Inspector Team Leader New York Division

Bernard Macias Associate State DirectorLong Island AARP New York

STEPPING OUT

‘Little’ films in the spotlight

Forty years with the Asbury Short Film Concert

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

STEPPING

By Karen Bloom

Creative advocacy

Roll out that red carpet. After a three-year pandemic-imposed hiatus, those “small” films are back on the local stage, as presented by the Asbury Short Film Concert.

If you’re looking for that tentpole blockbuster, then Hollywood’s got you covered. But for those who crave films with a bit more heart and soul that strike an emotional chord, Asbury’s “concert” is for you. This national touring showcase makes it way to the Madison Theatre on the Molloy University campus on Friday, April 21.

By Karen Bloom

Pat McGann

The Benatar/Giraldo partnership is acclaimed as an unstoppable force. Pat Benatar’s staggering vocals and take-no-prisoners attitude, along with Neil Giraldo’s trailblazing artistry as a guitarist, producer and songwriter forged the undeniable chemistry and unique sound that created some of rocks most memorable hits: ‘We Belong,’ ‘Invincible,’ ‘Love Is A Battlefield,’ ‘Promises In the Dark,’ ‘We Live For Love,’ and of course, ‘Heartbreaker.’ Together they have created two multiplatinum, five platinum and three gold albums, as well as 19 Top 40 hits — selling more than 30 million records worldwide, and winning an unprecedented four consecutive Grammy awards. Their stage presence is as undeniable as their more than three-decade rock-and-roll love affair. Benatar and Giraldo continue to share their special relationship on stage, selling out concerts everywhere. Their chemistry will undoubtedly be thrilling music fans for a long time to come.

His formula certainly has resonated with its audience. Asbury Shorts is celebrating its 40th anniversary season with an ever-growing national presence.

Thursday, April 13, 8 p.m. $159.50, $99.50, $69.50, $69.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.

With a diverse, yet focused lineup — in many cases featuring up-and-coming filmmakers — the audience gets a look at smaller efforts you generally won’t find on the big screen.

And, yes, think “concert,” not festival.

Can art change the world? It’s a question that’s been at the focus of our collective culture for centuries. Now as society navigates the complexities of modern life, art as a path for social change is at the forefront of artistic expression.

• Friday, April 21, 7:30 p.m.

• All seats $15

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

“We certainly have demonstrated that we are entertaining and blessed to have fans that keep coming back,” LeClaire says, while also reaching out to new audiences.

• Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. For tickets, visit MadisonTheatreNY. org or call the box office at (516) 323-4444

• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum

The two-hour show moves along briskly. Up to a dozen films are on the program, ranging from the shortest of shorts at three minutes, to 20 minutes.

“A good short film is to the point, fast paced and most important of all is the ending,” LeClaire says. “It must make sense.”

“When We All Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines the collective power of the arts in society.

“We present the best in comedy, drama, animation and the occasional documentary,” says Doug LeClaire, Asbury Shorts’ founder and director. “We call it a concert rather than a festival because there are no awards, no Q&A or panel discussions. It’s all about entertainment value for the audience.”

As in previous years, Asbury Shorts offers up an eclectic mix of films, what LeClaire describes as a “potpourri of the short film world.”

Curated by Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and collection — the exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence.

Pat McGann is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging. He hustled his way to become the house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself as especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.

‘Come Sail Away ...’

LeClaire, who’s been involved in commercial and film production for more than two decades, has been passionate about short films since his student days at New York Institute of Technology.

“Our No. 1 priority is the enjoyment of our audience,” he says. “We’re proud to provide an outlet for the filmmakers’s product. For us, it is all about the theatrical experience, showing these films to an audience. We give them the opportunity to experience great films on a big screen the way they were meant to be seen.”

“It highlights the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that promise equality and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” Giordano says. “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be ignored. The artists in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art and activism on issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, voting rights, racial bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making of art with public service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their communities and the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to stand with them.”

And these films sure do stick that ending. Among the highlights, LeClaire points to “Six Foot Scoundrel,” a brief comedy about two women who suspect foul play regarding a man’s death. “A widow is mourning her deceased husband, but there’s more going on than you might think. It moves along very quickly, but there’s a great payoff at the end.”

Another standout is “The Waiting Room,” produced, directed and written by former Nassau County film commissioner Debra Markowitz. The multiple festival award-winning 12-minute dramatic comedy reunites a woman and her ex-husband in heaven.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

“It’s a performance piece with smart dialogue,” LeClaire notes. “The ensemble cast does a great job.”

He and his team cull these films from the film festival circuit — including the prestigious South by Southwest, Sundance, Toronto International Film Festival, and Tribeca Festival, among others.

This exhibit, which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s 13th presidential conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April.

As for the rest, well, you’ll have to attend and see for yourself. LeClaire doesn’t like to reveal too much, promising some “unannounced surprises” in celebration of Asbury’s 40th anniversary.

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for a ‘Musical Cabaret Cruise,’ in this spirited show about a group of cabaret singers and dancers on a world cruise who encounter a rogue captain, a tropical island, a band of pirates, and many other surprises. ‘Cruise directors’ Barry Greenfield and Erica Iacono — with Capt. Keith, and a cast of 30 — keep the action moving along, with a live band. The ensemble of singers and dancers performs current hits, oldies and also tunes from the Broadway stage. It’s a lively afternoon that will take you away on a fantastic voyage.

“We were interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says museum director Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by an Obama Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, where more than 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to discuss the collective power of the arts to build community, create change, and chart a pathway for national recovery in the areas of social justice, civic participation and activism.”

“To get an award at one of these festivals is just as good as an Oscar nomination,” LeClaire says. “These young filmmakers are so happy to get that wreath. They collect them the way we would collect baseball cards back in the day.”

Think of this show as your personal film festival experience. As LeClaire puts it: “We’re bringing these films to folks who can’t get to film festivals.”

To that end, unlike other recent exhibits that showcased the museum’s permanent collection, Giordano reached out to contemporary artists who loaned

This is the Madison Theatre’s 10th year hosting Asbury, and LeClaire is grateful to have finally returned to what he considers their Long Island home.

“We’re very heartened by the audience at Madison,” he says. “It’s been a terrific relationship and we welcome everyone back after the hiatus, in true Asbury style. To celebrate our 40 years on Long Island means a lot. It’s where the show was born, and so to be here is extra special to us.”

Saturday, April 15, 2 p.m. Free admission. Elmont Memorial Library Theater, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. (516) 354-5280, or licabaret@aol.com.

The Waiting Room -

Six Foot Scoundrel

THE SCENE

Art talk

April

Wish You Were Here

Go over the moon with Wish You Were Here’s celebration of 50 years of the groundbreaking and iconic musical masterpiece “The Dark Side of the Moon,” on the Tilles Center stage, Saturday, April 15

10-piece band, known as “The Sight and Sound of Pink Floyd,” tradition as a leading Pink Floyd tribute act, combining sight and sound to capture the mood, emotions, and intensity of the Floydian theatrical concert experience. The multi-media show’s unique setlist includes Floyd classics and obscurities of all eras — from “Syd” to “The Division Bell.” LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets are $59, $49, $39: available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Breastfeeding Support Group

Join Nassau County Museum Director Charles A. Riley II, for a Director’s Seminar, Tuesday, April 18, 4 p.m. He’ll discuss ‘Oscar Wilde and Decadence,” in a session that is keyed to Wilde’s influence on a generation of painters, poets and playwrights, including Lautrec, Aubrey Beardsley and the poet Algernon Swinburne, based on his reputation as a decadent aesthete. Reading his critical writings and excerpts from The Picture of Dorian Gray, along with the writings of Whistler, Swinburne and the journalists of the infamous Yellow Book, Riley examines Wilde’s place in the Modernist movement. Participation is limited; registration required. $40, $20 members. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337.

Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

Hometown Heroes

The Franklin Square Civic Association is running its 2023 Hometown Hero Banner Program this spring. The banners will be displayed from Memorial Day through Veterans Day at the VFW Post 2718 on Lincoln Road or at Rath Park in Franklin Square. Applircation deadline has been extended to Saturday, April 15. For additional information call Adrienne McKenna at (516) 592-3405 or email hometownheroes@fsqcivic. org.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s new exhibition, “Eye And Mind: The Shin Collection,” highlights the extraordinary collection masterworks assembled by 31-year-old connoisseur Hong Gyu Shin, an internationally recognized figure in the global art world. He shares his treasures, including works by Whistler, Lautrec, Boucher, Daumier, Delacroix, Klimt, Schiele, Balthus, Warhol, de Kooning, Gorky and many other important names from art history provocatively juxtaposed with the painting and sculpture of our own time from both Asia and the West. On view through July 9. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Breast Cancer Screenings

Obtain a breast cancer screening from the NuHealth/ NUMC Mammography Van, Wednesday, April 12, 8 to 10:30 a.m., in the Echo Park parking lot. Screenings are offered for women over age 40, which includes a breast examination by a nurse, a mammography and instructions on self-examinations, at 399 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead. Free for uninsured women, based on eligibility guidelines. Appointments are required; scheduling is first come, first served. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Legislator John Giuffré’s office at (516) 571-6208.

Rath Park Survey

Provide information for the Franklin Square Civic Association’s Rath Park Survey by Monday, April 17 Residents t are encouraged to share ideas and concerns on park improvement. Survey is available at fsqcivic.org/rathpark-survey-2023/.

Having an event?

Spring Flowers

Bring the kids to Long Island Children’s Museum to celebrate National Garden Month, Saturday, April 8, noon-2 p.m. Create a beautifully blooming paper flower to take home at the drop-in program, suitable for ages 3 and up. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Medicare Help

Legislator John Giuffré holds a “Medicare Made Clear” session, Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m., at Franklin Square Public Library. He will explain the ins and outs of Medicare, at 19 Lincoln Road.

Civilian Patrol

The Franklin Square Civilian Patrol meets, Thursday, April 6, 7:30 p.m., at the VFW Post 2718, 68 Lincoln Rd. For more information call (516) 3517877.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

On stage

Back by popular demand, families will enjoy a musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Monday through Friday, April 10-14, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences. Carefully cautious Gerald and spirited playful Piggie share a day where anything is possible in an imaginative exploration of the meaning of friendship. Together with nutty backup singers, The Squirrelles, the comedic duo even gets the audience involved in the action. $9 with museum admission ($7 members), $12 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Journey down that Yellow Brick Road when the beloved story springs to life, presented Plaza Theatrical Productions, Wednesday, April 12, 11 a.m. All the ingredients that have made this story a perennial favorite are here. Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion as they make their way to Oz not knowing what awaits them. Share Dorothy’s epic adventure as she flees from the wicked witch and learns that there’s no place like home. Tickets $15; performed at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. Visit PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.

By JAMES BERNSTEIN jbernstein@liherald.com

There’s nothing bigger on Long Island — at least as far as annual hospital golf fundraiser goes, and it kicks off Monday, May 15 at three Nassau County courses.

Sponsored by Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, the 39th Annual Golf Outing raises money to serve patients and communities across the South Shore. And it will honor both the Long Beach fire chief, and a longtime facility vice president with the hospital.

Scott Kemins has spent more than 40 years as a civil servant, growing up in Long Beach “as a nice Jewish boy” whose mom wanted him to become a lawyer or a doctor. She did not conceive of him becoming a firefighter or a police officer. But that’s exactly what he did.

Now 60, Kemins, has been chief of the Long Beach Fire Department for more than two decades, joining the force in 1980. He was the youngest chief elected at the age of 26.

Kemins joined the Long Beach building department in 1995, becoming its commissioner in 2002. Kemins also earned Nassau County’s Bronze Medal of Valor for helping rescue someone from a burning apartment at an assisted living facility in Long Beach in the late 1980s. He also spent 40 years as a lifeguard.

Kemins — who is receiving the hospitals community service award at the event — shares twin 14-year-old daughters, Casey and Hailey, with his wife, Gayle. Both were born at Mount Sinai South Nassau, spending two weeks in the hospital’s neonatal care unit.

“My wife and I are eternally grateful to the hospital and its staff for the expert care they provided to our twins,” Kemins said, in a release. “We will never forget the kindness and expertise we witnessed first-hand when our girls were in the NICU.”

Dr. Adhi Sharma, the hospital’s president, said in a statement that Kemins’s leadership has helped emergency services on the barrier island improved significantly.

“He always works to better coordinate services in the field with area hospitals,” Sharma said. “He is an asset to our community, and it is our pleasure to recognize his

essential contributions to our community.”

Also earning recognition at the charity event is Andrew Triolo, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s vice president of facilities, design and construction.

“A builder, collaborator and problem-solver, Andy is always available to lend a helping hand, and has been essential to the growth of the hospital and the continuation of its excellence in the delivery of quality health care,” said Jeff Greenfield, co-chair of the golf committee, in a release. “And Scott is a first responder of the first order. He shows up whenever his community calls.”

Triolo also oversees construction of the hospital’s $130 million, four-story, 100-square-foot Feil Family Pavilion in Oceanside. Expected to be completed next year, the pavilion will double the size of the Fennessy Family Emergency Center, increase the critical and intensive care inpatient capacity to 40 beds, and add nine new operating rooms equipped with the latest surgical technologies.

Mike Sapraicone, who co-chairs the golf committee with Greenfield, says Kemins and Triolo are cut from the same cloth.

“They are built to serve,” he said, “and their service makes a measurable difference in the lives of our patients.”

The tournament itself will be held at three venues: The Seawane Club in Hewlett Harbor, the Rockaway Hunting Club in Lawrence, and the Rockville Links Club in Rockville Centre,

Last year’s outing broke records, grossing just under $640,000, with $435,000 of that going directly to expand and improve hospital services across the South Shore. Sponsorships, journal ads and foursomes are available for the outing, as well as a pickleball tournament for those who don’t golf. To learn more about sponsorship, or to register for golf or pickleball, call (516) 377-5360, or email lynne.nordone@snch.org.

Courtesy Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital ScoTT KEMINS, chIEf of the Long Beach Fire Department, will earn Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital’s community service award at its 39th Annual Golf

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. LAWRENCE G. THORNE, et al, Defts. Index #607487/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 16, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 1, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 32, Block 675, Lot 38. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale. JANE

SHRENKEL, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100205 138296

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

138258

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR FRANKLIN SQUARE UNION FREE, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que cualquier residente del distrito puede obtener una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para financiar el presupuesto del distrito escolar para 2023-2024, sin incluir el dinero público, a partir del 2 de mayo de 2023, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora en vigor, excepto los sábados, domingos o feriados, en la oficina de la Secretaría del Distrito, en 760 Washington Street School, Franklin Square, Nueva York, en la Biblioteca Pública de Franklin Square y en el sitio web del distrito.

enumerará todos los tipos de exención concedidos por la autoridad estatutaria y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, el importe acumulativo que se espera recibir como pagos en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas. Además, dicho informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablero de anuncios que tenga el distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web administrado por el distrito.

elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar en virtud del artículo 5 de la Ley de Elecciones, también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse.

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

THE BANK OF NEW YORK

MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS

CWABS INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-BC3, Plaintiff - against - COLIN WINTERS A/K/A COLIN PETERS, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 25, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 28th day of April, 2023 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 245 Stone Street, Elmont, (Town of Hempstead) New York 11003.

(Section: 32, Block: 461, Lot: 41)

Approximate amount of lien $979,111.91 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 3507/08.

Anthony C. Ciaccio, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618

Tel. 585/760-8218

Dated: February 22, 2023

POR EL PRESENTE, SE NOTIFICA que una audiencia pública de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Franklin Square Union Free, ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se realizará en Washington Street School, en dicho distrito el 2 de mayo de 2023 a las 8:00 p. m., hora en vigor, para la resolución de los asuntos conforme a lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, que incluye los siguientes puntos:

1. Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2023-2024.

2. Analizar todos los puntos que a continuación se establecen para que se voten mediante una máquina de votación en la votación anual de presupuesto y elección que se celebrará el martes 16 de mayo de 2023.

3. Resolver cualquier otro asunto que se presente en la reunión, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación del estado de Nueva York y las leyes que la enmiendan.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Biblioteca Pública de Franklin Square realizará una audiencia sobre el presupuesto de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Franklin Square Union Free, en 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square, Nueva York, en dicho distrito el lunes 8 de mayo de 2023 a las 7:00 p. m., hora en vigor, con el objetivo de presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada de la cantidad de dinero que requerirá la Biblioteca Pública de Franklin Square para el año fiscal 2023-2024.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que dicha votación del presupuesto y elección se realizarán el martes 16 de mayo de 2023 en John Street School, Polk Street School y Washington Street School, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m., hora en vigor, horario en el cual se habilitarán las urnas para votar mediante una máquina de votación sobre los siguientes asuntos:

1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del distrito escolar para el año fiscal 2023-2024 y autorizar que la parte requerida de este se recaude con impuestos sobre la propiedad sujeta a tributación del distrito.

2. Elegir un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación para un período de tres años, desde el 1 de julio de 2023 hasta el 30 de junio de 2026, para suceder a William Leder, cuyo mandato finaliza el 30 de junio de 2023.

3. Votar sobre la asignación presupuestaria de la Biblioteca Pública de Franklin Square presentada para el año fiscal 2023-2024 y autorizar que la parte requerida de este se recaude sobre la propiedad sujeta a tributación del Distrito Escolar Franklin Square Union Free.

4. Elegir un (1) miembro de la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca Pública de Franklin Square para un período de cinco (5) años, desde el 1 de julio de 2023 hasta el 30 de junio de 2028, para ocupar el cargo antes ocupado por Carl Gerrato.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con la sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el distrito escolar debe adjuntar un informe de exenciones al presupuesto sugerido. Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará la forma en que el valor estimado total del registro de evaluación final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos,

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes para nominar candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación se presentarán ante la secretaria de dicho distrito escolar en su oficina en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, ubicada en 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, antes del 17 de abril de 2023, de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m., hora en vigor. Cada solicitud se dirigirá a la Secretaría del Distrito y deberá estar firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del distrito; se deberá indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, así como también el nombre y la residencia del candidato, y se deberá describir la vacante específica para la que se nomina al candidato. Cada vacante para la Junta de Educación por cubrirse deberá considerarse una vacante específica y separada. Se necesita una solicitud de nominación por separado para nominar a un candidato para cada cargo específico. La solicitud describirá al menos la duración del cargo e incluirá el nombre del último titular. Para nominar a un candidato para el cargo de fideicomisario de la Junta de la Biblioteca Pública, cada petición debe estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes del distrito. Los puestos vacantes de la Junta de Fideicomisarios no se consideran cargos específicos ni independientes; los candidatos se presentan en general. Las solicitudes de nominación no deberán estipular ningún puesto vacante específico en la Junta para la cual esté nominado el candidato.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que el registro personal de los votantes es obligatorio según la sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación o el artículo 5 de la Ley de Elecciones. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora según la sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación y votó en una reunión de distrito anual o especial en los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, es

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes pueden registrarse con la secretaria de dicho distrito escolar en su oficina, en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, ubicada en 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m. cuando la escuela esté en sesión en cualquier día anterior al 11 de mayo de 2023 para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al registro que se utilizará en la elección mencionada. Durante ese horario, toda persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en el registro, siempre que en la reunión con la secretaria de dicho distrito escolar se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de la secretaria de dicho distrito escolar que esa persona tiene derecho a votar en la elección para la cual se prepara el registro. El registro preparado de conformidad con la sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación se presentará en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito, en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, ubicada en 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, y estará abierto para que cualquier votante calificado del distrito pueda inspeccionarlo a partir del jueves 11 de mayo de 2023, excepto los domingos, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., hora en vigor, todos los días de semana previos al día establecido para la elección, el sábado con cita previa y en los centros de votación el día de la votación.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Se puede pedir una solicitud de registro como votante militar a la oficina de la secretaria del distrito, en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, ubicada en 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., cuando la escuela esté en sesión. La solicitud también está disponible en el sitio web del Distrito de Franklin Square, en el apartado “Voter information” (Información para votantes). La solicitud de registro debe recibirse en la oficina de la secretaria antes de las 5:00 p. m. del 20 de abril de 2023.

En el pedido de solicitud de registro, el votante militar puede designar de qué manera prefiere recibir la solicitud de registro: por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico. POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito pueden presentar una solicitud de boleta electoral militar a la oficina de la secretaria del distrito, en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, ubicada en 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, durante el horario escolar. La solicitud también está disponible en el sitio web del Distrito de Franklin Square, en el apartado “Voter information” (Información para votantes). Las solicitudes completas deben enviarse a la secretaria del distrito antes de las 5:00 p. m. del 20 de abril de 2023. En el pedido de solicitud de boleta electoral militar, el votante militar puede designar de qué manera prefiere recibir la solicitud de boleta electoral militar y la boleta electoral militar: por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico. Las solicitudes de boleta electoral y las boletas electorales militares de los votantes militares calificados se deben entregar por correo o en persona. Las boletas electorales para los votantes militares se distribuirán a los votantes militares calificados veinticinco días antes de la elección, el 21 de abril de 2023. La secretaria del distrito debe recibir las boletas electorales militares (1) antes del cierre de la votación, el martes 16 de mayo de 2023, y deben tener una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o el servicio postal de un país extranjero, o un endoso fechado de recepción por parte de otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección debiendo estar firmados y fechados por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que establezca que no son posteriores al día previo a la elección. Habrá disponible una lista de personas para las que se emitieron boletas electorales militares para que los votantes calificados del distrito puedan inspeccionar en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito a partir del jueves 11 de mayo de 2023, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., hora en vigor, los días anteriores al día establecido para la elección anual, excepto los domingos, los sábados con cita previa y el 16 de mayo de 2023, el día establecido para la elección. Cualquier

votante calificado presente en ese momento en el centro de votación podrá objetar la votación de la boleta electoral por los motivos que considere oportunos, presentando su objeción y las razones de esta al inspector de la elección antes del cierre de las urnas.

POR MEDIO DEL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes de votos por ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario escolar de la secretaria del distrito. La solicitud también está disponible en el sitio web del Distrito escolar de Franklin Square, en el apartado “Voter information” (Información para votantes). La secretaria del distrito debe recibir las solicitudes completas a partir del 17 de abril de 2023 y por lo menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, el 9 de mayo de 2023, si la boleta electoral debe enviarse por correo al votante, o hasta el día antes de la elección, el 15 de mayo de 2023, si la boleta electoral debe entregarse personalmente al votante. La secretaria del distrito debe recibir los votos por ausencia antes de las 5:00 p. m., hora en vigor, del martes 16 de mayo de 2023.

Habrá disponible una lista de personas para las que se emitieron boletas electorales militares para que los votantes calificados del distrito puedan inspeccionar en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito a partir del jueves 11 de mayo de 2023, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., hora en vigor, los días anteriores al día establecido para la elección anual, excepto los domingos, los sábados con cita previa y el 16 de mayo de 2023, el día establecido para la elección. Cualquier votante calificado presente en ese momento en el centro de votación podrá objetar la votación de la boleta electoral por los motivos que considere oportunos, presentando su objeción y las razones de esta al inspector de la elección antes del cierre de las urnas.

POR EL PRESENTE, TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la sección 2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para enmendar el presupuesto, o que de otra manera se presente para la votación en dicha elección, se debe presentar ante la secretaria de la Junta de Educación en la Oficina del Distrito, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, Nueva York, con tiempo suficiente para permitir que el aviso de la propuesta se incluya con el aviso de audiencia

pública, la votación del presupuesto y la elección, según lo dispuesto en la sección 2004 de la Ley de Educación, o antes del 17 de abril de 2023 a las 3:30 p. m., hora en vigor. Debe estar escrita a máquina o en letra de molde en inglés, debe dirigirse a la secretaria del distrito escolar, debe estar firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del distrito (representando el 2 % de la cantidad de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior) y debe indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no considerará ninguna solicitud de presentar ante los votantes una propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las facultades de los votantes para determinarlo, que sea ilegal, que no incluya una asignación específica en la que el gasto de dinero sea requerido por la propuesta o en la que exista otra razón válida para excluir la propuesta del voto.

Con fecha de Franklin Square, Nueva York, 30 de marzo de 2023

Por orden de la JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DEL Distrito Escolar Franklin Square Union Free Franklin Square, Nueva York

Catherine Mione, secretaria del distrito 138324

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION OF THE FRANKLIN SQUARE UFSD NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that a Public Hearing of the qualified voters of the Franklin Square UFSD, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, will be held in the Washington Street School, in said district on May 2, 2023, at 8:00 p.m., prevailing time, for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:

1. To present to the voters a detailed statement of the amount of money which will be required for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

2. To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machine at the Budget Vote and Election to be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.

Public Notices

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a budget hearing of the qualified voters of the Franklin Square UFSD will be held by the Franklin Square Public Library at 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square, New York in said district on Monday, May 8, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., prevailing time, for the purpose of presenting to the voters a detailed statement of the amount of money which will be required by the Franklin Square Public Library for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget for 2023-2024, exclusive of public moneys, may be obtained by any resident of the District beginning May 2, 2023, between the hours of 8 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays at the Office of the District Clerk, 760 Washington Street School, Franklin Square, New York, at the Franklin Square Public Library, and on the District’s internet website.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that said Budget Vote and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in the John Street School, Polk Street School and Washington Street School, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machine upon the following items:

1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2023-2024 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three year term commencing July 1, 2023, and expiring on June 30, 2026, to succeed William Leder, whose term expires on June 30, 2023.

3. To vote upon the Franklin Square Public Library Budget Appropriation for fiscal year 2023-2024 as submitted and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised on the taxable property of the Franklin Square Union Free School District.

4. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Trustees of the Franklin Square Public Library for a five (5) year term commencing July 1, 2023 and expiring on June 30, 2028, to fill the position previously held by Carl Gerrato. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, 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 the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by the statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said 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 petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the District Administrative Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York, not later than April 17, 2023, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. Each petition shall be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least 25 qualified voters of the District; must state the name and residence of each signer, and, must state the name and residence of the candidate 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 separate specific vacancies. A separate nominating petition is required to nominate a candidate to each separate specific office.

The petition shall describe at least the length of the term of office and contain the name of the last incumbent. To nominate a candidate for the office of Trustee of the public Library Board, each petition must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) voters of the District. Vacancies on the Board of Trustees are not considered separate specific offices; candidates run at large.

Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting

within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, the voters may register with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the District Administration Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., when school is in session at any day prior to May 11, 2023 to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting with the Clerk of said School District he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Clerk of said School District to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, at her office in the District Administration Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on Thursday, May 11, 2023, except Sunday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., prevailing time, on each weekday prior to the day set for the election, on Saturday by appointment, and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. An application for registration as a military voter can be requested from the office of the District Clerk at her office in the District Administration Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. when school is in session. The application is also available on the Franklin Square District website under “voter information.” The application for registration must be received in the office of the clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2023. In the request for an application for registration, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for registration by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the district may submit an application for a military ballot during school business hours from the District Clerk at her office in the District Administration Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York. The application is also available on the Franklin Square District website under “voter information.” Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk by 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2023. In the request for an application for a military ballot, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for a military ballot, and the military ballot, by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail. All qualified military voters’ ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. Ballots for military voters shall be distributed to qualified military voters no later than twenty five days before the election, April 21, 2023. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk (1) before the close of the polls, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, and must show a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or must show a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or (2) not later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election and be signed and dated by the military voter and one witness, with a date ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.

A list of persons to whom military ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 11, 2023, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, on Saturday by appointment, and on May 16, 2023, the day set for the election.

Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk. The application is also available on the Franklin Square School District website under

“voter information.”

Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 17, 2023 and at least seven (7) days before the election, May 9, 2023, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, May 15, 2023, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

A list of persons to whom absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 11, 2023, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, on Saturday by appointment, and on May 16, 2023, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with Section 2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the Clerk of the Board of Education at the District Office, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York, in sufficient time to permit notice of the proposition to be included with the Notice of the Public Hearing, Budget Vote and Election required by Section 2004 of the Education Law or on or before April 17, 2023, at 3:30 p.m., prevailing time; 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 25 qualified voters of the District (representing 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board 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, which is unlawful, or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists

for excluding the proposition from the ballot.

Dated Franklin Square, New York March 30, 2023

By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE Franklin Square UFSD Franklin Square, New York

Catherine Mione, District Clerk 138322

LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO.21527

RESOLUTION NO.345-2023

Adopted: March 14, 2023

Councilmember Dunne offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS.

following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

ELMONT BELMONT BOULEVARDwest side, starting at a point 253 feet north of the north curbline of Rosalind Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York at a special meeting thereof held on March 28, 2023 subject to Permissive Referendum as provided by Town Law. An abstract of the resolution is as follows: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, shall expend additional monies for the purchase of emergency extrication air bags and associated accessories in an amount not to exceed, ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00). Said funds to be expended from Capital Reserve for Equipment Repair and Replacement as authorized by Section 6-g of the General Municipal Law. This resolution shall take effect 30 days from the date hereof, unless within 30 days a valid petition, as provided for in the Town Law is filed with the Fire District Secretary requesting a Permissive Referendum. BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Attest: Kerry Santina District Secretary March 28, 2023 138553

WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 332-2023, adopted February 28th, 2023, a public hearing was duly held on the 14th day of March, 2023, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and

WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:

ELMONT

HILLSBORO AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 237 feet north of the north curbline of Atherton Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-35/23)

FRANKLIN SQUARE BARBARA BOULEVARDsouth side, starting at a point 403 feet west of the west curbline of Fairway Drive, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-31/23)

(NR)LYNBROOK UNION AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 50 feet south of the south curbline of Norwich Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-38/23)

ROOSEVELT DECATUR STREET - west side, starting at a point 43 feet north of the norh curbline of Underhill Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-37/23)

and on the repeal of the

(TH-299/11 - 10/04/11) (TH-22/23) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead, and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting.

The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Carini and adopted upon roll call as follows:

AYES: FIVE (5) NOES: NONE (0) 138569

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, vs. WALLACE MORRIS, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Consent Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 13, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 9, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1601-01 Johnson Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003 a/k/a 1601 Johnson Avenue 1, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 470 and Lot 31. Approximate amount of judgment is $531,815.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 006112/2014. Cash will not be accepted. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Franklin Square Raiders kickoff season

More than 200 kids couldn’t wait to get on the field and score a goal at the Franklin Square Raiders soccer team’s opening day at Sewanhaka High School on April 2.

This year marks the club’s 40th anniversary, and during the last four decades, 7,500 children have participated in the program.

Today, the Raiders count more than 700 kids, ages 2 to 12, playing on 60 intramural teams on Sunday mornings and 11 travel teams in the Long Island Junior Soccer League and Elite Development Program soccer leagues.

To view the Spring 2023 Intramural schedule, visit FranklinSquareSoccer.com.

Public Notices

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, vs. MARK GORDON, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order ReIndexing the Deed, Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 8, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 9, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 44 Seville Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 434 and Lot 21-26. Approximate amount of judgment is $686,419.27 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 618123/2019. Cash will not be accepted. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse,

rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff 138557

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 auction.

ROGER HAUSCH, Referee, BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf. 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 703, New York, NY. File No. 305409.448- #100245 138538

LEGAL NOTICE

Theodora Street with the westerly side of Scherer Boulevard; being a plot 100 feet by 40 feet by 100 feet by 40 feet.

Section: 35 Block: 19 and

Lots: 114 and 115

BoarD memBers

LEGAL

NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. DB

TL HOLDCO 2017, LLC, Pltf. vs. LEON THOMAS, et al, Defts. Index #609729/19. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 28, 2023 I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 9, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., prem. k/a 7 Sterling Road, Elmont, NY a/k/a School District 16, Section 32, Block 379, Lot 114. Approx. amt. of judgment is $45,406.66 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

HUDSON CITY SAVINGS

BANK, Plaintiff -againstDENISE HELFRICH, et al

Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated May 16, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 9th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Franklin Square, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at a point on the southerly side of Theodora Street, distant 100 feet westerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of

All bidders must wear a face mask/shield at all times and social distancing must be observed by all bidders at all times. Bidders who do not comply with the face mask and/or the social distancing mandate will be removed from the auction. Said premises known as 1111 THEODORA STREET, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY Approximate amount of lien $758,840.99 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney.

Index Number 011626/2014.

GLENN R. JERSEY III, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030

File# 7777.234

{* Elmont Herald*} 138286

faBian Cristian, left, Nicole Messina, Lorena Udik, director Steven Navarra, head coach Dominick Cervoni, Naddira Savard, Danielle Alterie, Chris Abruzzino and president Alex McKendry celebrated the Franklin Square Raiders soccer team’s 40th anniversary on opening day on April 2.

Dozens of little athletes head towards the goal during one of the opening day games for the Franklin Square Raiders.

–Ana Borruto

Keith Rossein/Herald photos

Dominick cervoni, front left, Allie Scarpa, Luca Ferrucci, Lucy Essig, Adriano Speduto, Jame Riley and Mike Devoti are members of Team Cobras — the Franklin Square Raiders’ five and six-year-old instructional division led by coaches Dom Cervoni, back left, Michael Scarpa and Matthew Devoti. At left, an interception takes place.

Administrative Assistant Various Office Duties Must Be Proficient In Word And Outlook

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DRIVING

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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.

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MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales

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Stunning modern farmhouse home located in the heart of Salisbury within East Meadow school district. Oversized meticulously manicured 70x110 lot includes expansive 5 bedroom, 3 bath, turn-key modern farmhouse. There is a designer custom kitchen with stainless steel appliances, wine refrigerator, and gorgeous quartz counter tops. You will love the primary bedroom with spa-like en-suite and hardwood floors throughout. The living area includes vaulted ceilings, fireplace and sliders to the resort style backyard with fully permitted outdoor kitchen and diamond pavered entertainment area. This home also boasts central air-conditioning, a 1 car garage and security system with so much more.

Open Houses

HEWLETT 1534 BROADWAY #205, Open House By Appt! Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living...$699,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1267 Peninsula Blvd, BA, NEW TO MARKET! 5 BR, 2 Bth Exp Cape in SD#14 (Hewlett-Woodmere) Living Room, DR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK & Bths. Det 1.5 Gar & Driveway for 4/5 Cars. HW Floors. Gas Heat. Near LIRR, Shops, Trans & Schools. A Steal!

.....$599,000 RONNIE GERBER 516 238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #103, REDUCED AND MOTIVATED! Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch Style Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator. Just Move into This Gut Renovated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout.Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet. Terrace Faces into Courtyard and the Garage Parking is Incl..$699,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1599 Lakeview Dr.,

FIRST SHOW! 4 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch on Tree Lined St in SD#14. Spacious LR,DR & Family Rm, EIK & Fin Bsmt. Att Garage. HW Flrs. Near Park, Trans, Shops & Houses of Worship...$829,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

Open Houses

HEWLETT BA 257 WILLARD Spacious 5 BR, 3 , open house 12-1:30, 4/2, Bth Exp Ranch With Open Layout.Main Floor Mstr Ste Plus Potential Mstr Ste on 2nd Flr.LR/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Sundrenched Family Rm w/ Doors to Deck. Fin Bsmt. Att Gar. Loads of Updates!! SD#20(Lynbrook)No

Flood Insurance Req. MUST SEE THIS!..$1,025,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETTE 1608 RIDGEWAY Dr, BA, Drastic Reduction! Motivated Seller!Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant Htd Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20...$1,399,000

Stonegate Real Estate 2a Poole Street Oceanside, NY 11572 516-740-2777 info@stonegatere.com www.stonegatere.com

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299 1211059 happy holidays!

Spacious LR, DR, Family Rm, EIK & Fin Bsmt. Att Garage. HW Flrs. Near Park, Trans, Shops & Houses of Worship $829,000

1608 Ridgeway Dr, BA, Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant Heated Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20 DRASTIC REDUCTION! MOTIVATED SELLER! $1,399,000 ALSO FOR RENT $6,500 per month

1267 Peninsula Blvd, BA, NEW TO MARKET! 5 BR, 2 Bth Exp Cape in SD#14 (Hewlett-Woodmere) LR, DR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK & Bths. Det 1.5 Gar & Driveway for 4/5 Cars. HW Floors. Gas Heat. Near LIRR, Shops, Trans & Schools. A Steal! $599,000

1534 Broadway #103, BA, Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch Style Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator. Just Move into This Gut Rvated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout. Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet. Terrace Faces into Courtyard. Garage Parking Incl REDUCED & MOTIVATED!! $699,000

1534 Broadway #205, BA, Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom

(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER!$699,000 CE da RHURST

332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR. Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D. Pull Down Attic. SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship $449,000

Making an old home newer

Q. Our new home is pretty old, from 1920. We want to update it and have a lot of concerns, with taxes if we enlarge it, cost if we get rid of walls, widening our driveway to park more cars and what you think about getting rid of our garage for more room instead of building up. It’s a one-story with low ceilings on the second floor that are really too small for bedrooms. My parents have been reading your column for many years and suggested you could help. What can you tell us?

A. It’s hard for me not to feel as old as your house when you put it that way, but after writing this column for 32 years, I’m often doing work for children of former clients, and have gotten your question thousands of times. First, almost anything you do that adds space to your home also adds value, and value increases taxes. Cosmetic changes like siding, windows or an asphalt or concrete driveway generally don’t affect the value, but luxury materials, such as stone facing or interlocking pavers, will.

Most of the time, people complain about taxation but rarely, if ever, do they collectively attempt to do anything about it. The methods for deciding value, or even using value as a gauge for tax increases, are questionable, especially because we used to be taxed based on square feet. As we transition into not leaving our homes, communicating digitally, the tax system perpetuates without challenge.

In many villages and towns, garages are required, and hard surfaces for any kind of paving are considered “impervious,” not replenishing groundwater. There are limits on how much of your total property you can cover. You will need to investigate your specific jurisdiction’s requirements. Sidewalks, patios and driveways are all impervious, but pools and decks generally are not.

You’ll need your property survey, which is a map of your lot, house size and location, but you’ll also discover that surveyors generally don’t provide the dimensions of porches, sidewalks, driveways or steps. Get out a tape measure and accurately document the property’s hard surfaces if you’re in a community that requires impervious-area information. When you hire an architect or engineer, that’s what we have to do.

The only way to answer questions about removing walls is to assess the whole house: where to disperse loads, how to brace exterior walls against wind shear, how to handle snow loads and wind uplift, where pipes and wires would be relocated, how the spaces function and will be finished.

Package all this to be reviewed by building officials and receive permission to build — sounds simpler than it is, especially when workers leave details out or change something and we start adjusting all over again, only after much discussion, time and money. That’s also part of the age-old process. Avoid changes once you decide, save money doing so and your old house will be like new again.

Ask The Architect Monte Leeper ©

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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MERRICK INDOOR SALE Saturday 4/15, Sunday 4/16. 10am-4pm. Sunrise Yacht Club. 1980 Bayberry Avenue. Multi Family.

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New York is going to pot, very slowly

New York state is a big and complex entity. It provides services that meet the needs of millions of people, and at the same time, it creates law after law that is supposed to meet those needs. Sometimes the state trips over its own regulatory feet and falls flat on its face.

When it comes to the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act, you can toss a coin as to whether it is a hiccup or a major bureaucratic headache. The MRTA law turned 2 years old last week. When you create a massive statewide undertaking, there are always fits and starts. But sooner or later, the whole process gets on track and almost everyone is happy.

There is no doubt that the legislators who sponsored the original MRTA law had the best of intentions, and were hopeful that the law would be in place and slowly but surely be producing rev-

enue for the state and creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs. Regrettably, the state has gotten zero dollars from the program, and you can count the number of new jobs with your fingers.

I’m not pointing one of mine in blame at any officials in particular, because they have a tough and thankless job. But the visions of success have been premature. At present, there are hundreds of licensed growers around the state who will very soon have a product that is available, but no one to sell it to. There are only a handful of legal dispensaries, and they can’t handle the amount of cannabis that is being grown. So what should a pot grower do with tons of mature plants? Farmers must have a place to sell their products, but New York’s cannabis growers don’t. While the state has been in the process of getting the system functioning, one group has done very well. If you take a drive around New York City or many other parts of the state, you’ll see

an enormous number of mini-stores that call themselves “smoke shops.” You can be sure that they aren’t surviving on the proceeds from the sales of $12 packs of Marlboros. They do sell nicotine products, but their money comes from the sale of marijuana.

These days there is so much pot on the streets of our state that you can smell it on many street corners. I recently took our granddaughter to the American Museum of Natural History and smelled pot near the dinosaur exhibit. Gov. Kathy Hochul has introduced a bill that would shut down all of the smoke shops and impose massive fines on those that fail to comply.

When I was a member of the Assembly, we had an old adage: Where there’s a new law, there’s a lawsuit to follow. So far, the state has been sued twice by companies and individuals claiming that the licensing process for selling pot has either been “unfair” or “arbitrary.” Because my law firm represents some prospective licensees, I won’t comment

on the merits of those claims.

But suffice it to say that not everyone is in love with MRTA. Friends complain to me frequently about the legalization of pot, but I explain to them that it is now legal in more than 20 states, both red and blue. In its first year of legalization, the state of Colorado collected over $250 million in revenue, and now that revenue is closer to $1 billion annually. What state wouldn’t want to cash in on the pot business?

Sooner or later, the New York Legislature will help implement the MRTA more effectively, and the state might even see a few dollars that are now going to the smoke shops.

And if you think the pot law got off to a slow start, watch how the casino licensing process goes forward. No doubt that new headache will be like turning an aircraft carrier around, not once but multiple times.

Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

America, where have all the flowers gone?

We ponder big themes this week. Biblical plagues, miracles, resurrection, insurrection, and the elevation of false gods. And that’s just our political world.

We also mark the days of Passover and Easter. For those who observe, this religious week reminds us that nothing in our lives is unique. Kings have risen and kings have fallen. Democracies have triumphed and then failed, in cycles that repeat themselves over the ages.

Still, last week was a remarkable one for those of us living on earth in 2023. After years of investigations and a multi-year media free-for-all, a former president of the United States was indicted by a grand jury in New York. I saved the front page for my grandchildren to preserve the moment, because it is historic and because I want them to know that everyone is equal under the law, even an American president. Almost all the headlines in all the big newspapers featured two words set in large bold type:

TRUMP INDICTED.

The road ahead is unclear. The wheels of justice love a well-worn path, and this time around there is none. The presumption of innocence supersedes all other aspects of the case, but how the process unfolds, with Donald Trump exonerated or convicted, will grab headlines and social media attention for years to come.

For me, the most distressing consequence of the former president’s indictment was that it wiped off the front pages the story of the shooting of six people in Nashville earlier in the week. This is how it goes these days: Horrific shootings of children have become bloody blips on our screens. The news feeds zap our devices with details of yet another crazed shooter, bodies in classrooms, police charging the killer, statements of sympathy, first ladies off to the funerals. And the world watches as tiny caskets go into the ground, and traumatized families and friends experience the first days of what will be a lifetime of longing and grief.

At one of the funerals of one of the 9-year-olds killed in Nashville, a rela-

tive spoke of the little girl’s favorite activities in her preschool days. That is how the lives of 9-year-olds are eulogized.

Nashville, of course, is just the most recent crime scene where murdered children were laid to rest. More than 6,000 American children were hurt or killed by gunfire in 2022, according to ABC News. No single issue in our lives is more important, and more demanding of our action than this: The leading cause of death among children in the United States is gun violence.

Reflecting on the Nashville murders in The Washington Post, columnist Philip Bump quoted from a book by Ta-Nehisi Coates, remembering a child killed in a violent encounter. “Think of all the love poured into him,” Coates wrote, delineating specific ways in which parents invest in and show their love for their children: music lessons, birthday parties and kids’ books. Then, he added, “And think of how that vessel was taken, shattered on the concrete, and all its holy contents, all that had gone into him, sent flowing back to the earth.”

Mr. Bump went on to write, “Most of

the deaths from firearms for those ages 1 to 18 are homicides, with about a third being suicide. In 2020 in particular and in recent years more generally, the number of firearm homicides within this age range spiked.”

Each of us has a voice and a pen and a vote. If we love our children more than we love the patronage of the NRA, we need to make those voices heard.

The people in Nashville who were murdered in cold blood with military style weapons were Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney and Hallie Scruggs, all 9 years old; Katherine Koonce, 60, the head of the school; Mike Hill, 61, a custodian; and Cynthia Peak, 61, a substitute teacher.

If we take away anything from the last chaotic week, let it be a commitment to stop the killing of our children. This is a uniquely American abomination, our new American exceptionalism.

During this week of political drama and religious meditation, can we not use our voices and our votes to demand change in our gun laws? In my youth, we raised our voices to protest the killing of our kids in war. Pete Seeger’s lyrics resonated in that time and place.

They still ring out: “Where have all the flowers gone?”

Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

RANDI KREISS

Horrific shootings of children have become bloody blips on our screens.

The handful of legal dispensaries can’t handle the volume being grown.

JERRY KREMER

HERALD

Kids will lead, if we let them

What’s the best way to teach a child? The better question is, what’s the most effective way a child learns?

Lagging student achievement is not new. As schools grapple with declining test scores caused by the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns, education leaders need to find a solution.

Schools nationwide have been using project-based learning to better reach kids. Students identify real-world problems — like climate change or food scarcity — and then research solutions and present their findings. The goal is for students to acquire knowledge and problem-solving skills, instead of focusing on traditional learning by sitting in rows and memorizing facts.

Students make all the decisions. Teachers? They’re along for the ride.

Sometimes the best lesson is for adults to shut up, stand to the side and let kids take charge. Leaders in the Village of Malverne did just that when a group of high school students, following the model of project-based learning in curriculums across the country, sought to rename a street honoring a former Ku Klux Klan leader.

Over a few years, students researched the topic, petitioned school and village officials several times, and built a communitylevel outreach program. The result? Lindner Place was renamed Acorn Way in January. The new name is a nod to Malverne’s motto, “Oaks from acorns.”

Certainly, there were other people

letters

Where do you stand, Congressman D’Esposito?

To the Editor:

Every day last week, I called U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito’s office, inquiring about his stance on gun violence, while the TV hummed news of another school shooting, like an excruciating soundtrack to my calls.

Days 1-3: “I haven’t had the chance to speak to the congressman about this issue, but I will pass along your concerns on the matter.”

Day 4: “I’ve heard from others in the office that the congressman is working on a statement.”

Day 5: “I haven’t had the chance to speak to the congressman about this issue, but I will pass along your concerns on the matter.”

I kept hoping to hear the leadership and independence that Congressman D’Esposito was elected by my district to demonstrate. The freshman congressman from District 4, the one made famous by the LIRR massacre that brought Carolyn McCarthy to Congress, ran on a platform of “public safety.” Why, then, was it so hard to receive a response about his position on the ultimate pub-

involved, from civic leaders to community activists. And they came from nearby Lakeview and West Hempstead as well as the village. But children were at the forefront.

This wasn’t a school assignment or an application booster for college. Students came up with the idea. They did the research and spoke to village leaders at public meetings. No one told them they had to do this. Students identified and researched a problem, created solutions, and persuaded the public they were right.

Not only was the Acorn Way renaming a great example of students learning through project-based learning, but it also improved the community. Gone is a street sign celebrating a person who believed in hate. And while Paul Lindner was influential in the village’s history, the evil he promoted cannot be overlooked.

The Acorn Way street renaming garnered national attention, a clear indication of the impact children can have on the world. There are examples of children solving problems all around us by way of PBL — from a high school girl in Bellport who raised money and then helped build a water-filtration system for an all-girls school in Pakistan, to a high school boy in Las Vegas who created a nonprofit that collects and donates shoes.

There are virtually innumerable ways kids can volunteer at almost any age. Parents can reach out to local or national and international groups for ideas. Better still, ask a child what he or she would do to

make the world a better place.

Educators are deeply concerned about learning in the 21st century. American schoolchildren continue to lag behind those in dozens of other countries in math and science. Certainly there are other measures of student learning, but the decline remains troubling.

The latest focus is on what are called the 4 C’s of 21st-century Learning: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Project-based learning is the epitome of this concept. The Malverne students took it further by adding “community.”

Is the purpose of an education to get a job and make money? Or is it something more meaningful? By allowing students to guide their own learning, the greater Malverne community is a better place — not only now, but in the future.

More students will follow the example of those in Malverne, and more communities will be made better places. Schools can continue to expand PBL throughout all grades to encourage students to explore problems and solutions. Communities can offer competitions to entice students to solve problems. Parents can pose open-ended questions to push their child’s critical thinking.

There are more opportunities like this in every town. Schools, community leaders, and others should spread the story of Acorn Way to encourage more children to explore problems and solutions.

All we have to do is get out of their way.

It’s time to rethink windstorm insurance coverage

what is a windstorm? That might sound like a question with an obvious answer. And for the National Weather Service, it is.

But in New York, there isn’t a single answer — there are many. More than 100, in fact. And it all depends on your homeowners insurance policy. And even then, the answer might not be so clear. This might not seem like a big deal, but it is. Which definition your policy uses could impact the amount you have to pay out of pocket if a windstorm damages your property. And really, none of the options are cheap.

A lack of a standard definition ultimately affects windstorm deductibles. If the wind speed doesn’t meet the definition of a windstorm outlined in your policy, you will likely see your standard deductible — anywhere between $500 and $2,000.

But if you have a policy where wind

speeds match its definition of a windstorm, say goodbye to that standard deductible, and instead look at opening your wallet to pay a percentage of your home’s value, typically 5 percent. That means if your home is worth $500,000, forget paying $500 or even $2,000. You’ll be on the hook for $25,000.

All while your neighbors might be paying much less, for the same storm. All because they have different policies than you.

It’s a roulette wheel of coverage — the kind where the odds remain in favor of the house. You know, the insurance companies.

New York isn’t the South, which is prone to storms like hurricanes. But that doesn’t mean our homes aren’t susceptible to wind damage. Hurricane Sandy may have taken place a decade ago, but there have been other storms since then that, while smaller, could still trigger the much higher deductible, and make it nearly impossible for many homeowners to afford the repairs they most desperately need after a storm.

This is hardly a new problem, and

Letters

lic safety issue of our time?

Despite the overwhelming pessimism and the sense that nothing will ever be done to change it, Congressman D’Esposito actually has an opportunity to make a difference and to lead on the issue of gun reform, beginning with an assault weapons ban, which a majority of the American public supports. He is a member of a narrow band of swing state representatives whom he can encourage to work in a bipartisan manner to solve this urgent problem.

All Long Islanders may not be on the same page, but our representatives owe us a clear statement of where they are on this issue so we might begin dialogue and seek solutions together. You can’t lead if nobody knows where you stand or where you are headed.

As a lifelong educator, I believe in the possibility of change and growth, and in this spirit I will keep calling the congressman’s office and hoping for a new response — a meaningful one.

DIANE CArACCIoLo West Hempstead

The lives those Nashville 9-year-olds missed

To the Editor:

As an elementary school teacher for 38 years, I taught almost 1,000 9-year-olds, so my heart goes out to the three youngest

Nashville school shooting victims, Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney and Hallie Scruggs. They’ve had a combined 200 or more years of life stolen from them, and I mourn them with these numbers:

None of them ever got to celebrate a double-digit birthday.

If they had lived to graduate from high school, these three children would at least have had a combined 54 years of learning and laughter. Turning 22 and graduating from college would have afforded their mothers and fathers a combined 66 years of parental pride.

Had they reached 50, besides their AA r P memberships, they would have had 150 years in which to have marriages and children, not to mention providing their own parents with grandchildren to spoil.

Had they reached the Social Security age of 62, that would have meant a combined 186 years of life, including working at jobs that would have contributed to many aspects of American life. Getting to retire and earn Medicare benefits at age 65 would have meant a combined 195 years of living life to its fullest, including award-winning careers after which they’d receive their gold watches, and never need to worry about health insurance.

Given their actuarially expected life spans of 80 years, they would have had 240 years, in which they would even have had grandchildren of their own.

there is a solution: Establish a standard definition for windstorms that would apply to all homeowners policies with a windstorm deductible.

Defining windstorms for the purposes of insurance coverage would not upend the underwriting of coastal homeowners policies. Instead, it would make it easier for New York homeowners to understand when a windstorm deductible might apply.

Albany has tried to solve this problem since long before Sandy, but simply hasn’t gotten anywhere. Bill after bill has been introduced in the Legislature, and bill after bill has died there. Last session, a bill standardizing the definition of a windstorm passed the Assembly, but couldn’t make its way out of the Senate.

This session, lawmakers are trying again. Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato and Sen. James Sanders Jr. have companion bills that are seeking a path to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk. A.2866 and S.4199 would require insurance companies to make clear how much financial exposure a homeowner would have to

windstorm damage.

It’s easy to mistake a 5 percent deductible as meaning a homeowner would have to pay 5 percent of the overall cost of repairs — not 5 percent of the home’s total value, which would be much more.

The bills would also standardize the “trigger” — the event that activates the policy in the first place. Uniform standards would make it easier for homeowners to compare different insurance offerings, and get the coverage they expect, and need. It’s something both New Jersey and Connecticut have recently accomplished, and it would also help make sure deductibles are reasonable, and not something that’s going to make the pain of dealing with a damaged home even worse.

Ask your elected officials if they will be a part of the solution. In the meantime, call your insurance agent and make sure you understand what triggers your windstorm deductible, and how much you could be paying out of pocket.

It’s a surprise — and an added expense — none of us needs.

Gary Slavin is president-elect of Professional Insurance Agents of New York State, and an agent with MassMutual in Massapequa.

Framework by Tim Baker

A member of the welcoming committee at Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve— Merrick

rICHArD SIEGELMAN Plainview

the odds remain in favor of the house. You know, the insurance companies.

Moriches Field Brewing Company received $18,750 to revitalize an empty downtown space.

(Cheers to that.)

Revitalization grants are just one of the ways we help businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways. For Moriches Field Brewing Company, a grant from our economic development program was a perfect fit to help them renovate a previously vacant property. A discount through our Vacant Space Revival Program saved them more than $4,000 on their electric bills, and rebates for upgrading to LED lighting are keeping them saving month after month.

Helping revitalize our Island, one business at a time, is something we’re proud to be part of and something definitely worth celebrating.

Grants | Rebates | Incentives | Assessments | Community Support

For more information, visit PSEGLINY.com/EcoDev