Freeport Herald 03-09-2023

CARMELO RAVEN

LOPEZ, of Freeport, was honored by PSEG Long Island as part of National Engineers Week, for his contributions to battling climate change.

Celebrating Black history

PSEG engineer Carmelo Lopez saluted for work

By MOHAMED FARGHALY mfarghaly@liherald.com

Carmelo Raven Lopez, an electrical and computer engineer from Freeport, was celebrated by PSEG Long Island, along with more than 250 colleagues, in honor of National Engineers Week.

National Engineers Week, held annually in February, celebrates the contributions of engineers raises awareness of the importance of engineering. The event, with the theme of “Creating the Future,” is organized by the National Society of Professional Engineers in collaboration with other engi-

neering organizations.

PSEG Long Island provides power to approximately 1.1 million customers on Long Island and in the Rockaway Peninsula of New York City.

Lopez is a member of the Integrated Planning and Grid Innovation team at PSEG Long Island, where he ensures a dependable and secure power supply for customers. His team’s primary objective is to find economical means of addressing the challenges of an electric grid changing to renewable energy sources as part of New York state’s Reforming the Energy Vision

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Organizing the annual ‘People’s Food Drive’ in Freeport

By ANDRE SILVA asilva@liherald.com

Robert Hallam and the Long Island Council of Churches

Food Pantry in Freeport is helping hungry families in Nassau County get something to eat.

The council is collecting monetary and food donations to feed families in nearby Baldwin as well as Freeport, Malverne and other South Shore communities, with additional help from an online crowdfunding campaign that began last month. It’s all part of the 12th annual People’s Food Drive.

“Sometimes people think the needy are homeless and down-

trodden people,” said Hallam, of Lynbrook. “The people we help are really the ‘working poor’ — they have homes, but they live paycheck to paycheck.”

Inflation and rising food costs, he added, are driving more Long Islanders to the food pantry. “Everybody is aware of food prices going through the roof,” Hallam said. “When eggs go from $2.50 to $8 a dozen, it puts an imbalance in their paychecks.”

The food drive, he explained, is not designed to sustain families, but rather to give them a chance to temporarily ease the burden created by the cost of food.

Hallam, a member of Malverne’s Community Presbyterian Church, said the drive started as an offshoot of the church’s annual food collection in 2011, when he began placing donation boxes around his community.

“In our first year, we collected 984 donated items,” he recalled. “Now we’re in the range of 25,000 donated items each year.”

Hallam said that he and his wife, Mary, put out the first donation boxes at his workplace, Nassau Door and Window, in Lynbrook, and at Jeremy’s Ale House, in Freeport. Since then, the initiative has

grown dramatically.

“It’s not just the church anymore — it’s not just me and my wife anymore,” Hallam said. “This is how we came up with the name the People’s Food Drive. Everybody involved in the drive is a member, and plays their part to give back to the community.”

For a month now, donated

food items have been filling up the living and dining rooms of the Hallams’ Lynbrook home, where they are being divided into boxes that will be transported to the Freeport pantry on Hanse Avenue in three weeks. “My house is completely filled with boxes,” Robert said, “from floor to ceiling.”

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Courtesy PSEG Long Island

Hempstead Councilman visits Chamber Management of Lombardo Marina discussed at Chamber of Commerce luncheon

Hempstead Councilman Chris Carini paid a visit to Freeport during a Chamber of Commerce Luncheon to discuss the recent agreement between the Town of Hempstead and the Village of Freeport regarding the town turning over operation of the Guy Lombardo Marina to the Village.

The Town of Hempstead and the Village of Freeport established a revocable license agreement for the Guy Lombardo Marina.

As per the agreement, the Village of Freeport will be in charge of maintaining the marina while keeping the revenue generated by it.

Furthermore, the Village has committed to undertaking significant upgrades to the marina within the first five years.

CHRIS CARINI

Hempstead Councilman

Although the marina remains under the ownership of the Town, this licensing agreement authorizes the Village of Freeport to take over its management.

“The Village of Freeport is a great partner in government and this agreement is a prime example of the benefit of intergovernmental relationships,” Carini said. “The Guy Lombardo Marina will continue to be an excellent dock for boaters all across Long Island.”

–Mohamed Farghaly

Courtesy Chris Carini

HEMPSTEAD COUNCILMAN VISITED the Freeport Chamber of Commerce to discuss an agreement in which Freeport will take over the management of the Guy Lombardo Marina while committing to upgrades within the first five years.

The Guy Lombardo Marina will continue to be an excellent dock for boaters all across Long Island.

Freeport celebrates Black History Month

Uniting the community for an intimate and historic celebration

The Freeport High School Performing Arts Center was filled with a sense of unity and pride as the district celebrated Black History Month with their annual districtwide celebration.

The event included inspiring music, powerful art, dancing, and poetry from all eight of the district’s schools, impressing those in attendance with each student group’s rendition.

Superintendent of Schools, Kishore Kuncham, welcomed everyone to the celebration and expressed his thoughts on equality and fighting injustice.

“Rising up against injustice takes many forms,” Kuncham said. “Tonight, we honor all the black individuals who have joined in the resistance against injustice and inequality - using their many talents and skills, dreaming and transcending to become successful and paving the way for others to follow. Freeport Public Schools is proud of the many amazing talents of our students and how they express the arts of all black individuals tonight in honor of Black History Month.”

The narrator for the evening, Freeport High School junior Lourdes SaundersBlake, introduced each school as they took the stage to showcase their talents. The evening started with the talented kindergarten students from Columbus Avenue Early Childhood Center, who received applause for their rendition of “We Are Here.”

J.W. Dodd Middle School’s Select Chorale performed a version of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” with the entire audience standing in recognition of African American history.

Under the leadership of Ms. Jill Boardman, the Freeport High School Sinfonietta played “An African-American Air,” a lyrical and beautiful piece that incorporated musical quotes from numerous spirituals.

The second-grade World Music Club from Bayview Avenue Elementary School presented a traditional selection from Cameroon that featured singing, dancing, and playing traditional Cameroon instruments.

Following that, a select group of second graders from New Visions Elementary School recited “Martin Luther King,” a motivational poem that celebrated Dr. King’s work for peace and encouraged others to emulate his vision of equality and kindness for all. Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School’s Hot Steppers performed a traditional show that blended African folk traditions with popular Black American culture, while the fourth-grade chorus from Archer Street Elementary School had the audience clapping and singing along with Curtis Mayfield’s “It’s All Right.”

The celebration also featured incredi-

ble artwork created by students in grades K-12, showcased in an impressive slideshow presentation. The Black History Month celebration concluded with the fifth and sixth grade chorus from Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School performing the traditional spiritual “Shine on Me.” Overall, the event was an inspiring celebration of Black history and culture.

–Mohamed Farghaly

FREEPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Superintendent of Schools, Kishore Kuncham welcomed families and community residents to the district’s annual Black History Month Celebration with inspiring and uplifting words.

Photos courtesy Freeport Public Schools

OPENING THE BLACK History Month celebration, the kindergarten chorus from Columbus Avenue performed We are Here.

CAROLINE G. ATKINSON Intermediate School’s fifth and sixth grade chorus closed the concert with the traditional spiritual Shine on Me.

Looking to a future with plentiful water

Nearly 50 local irrigation contractors as well as representatives from area water providers gathered at the Merrick Golf Course clubhouse to explore ways to conserve water with Hempstead town supervisor Don Clavin, the town’s water department, Liberty New York Water, and the Irrigation Association of New York.

“Reducing the amount of water we use on our irrigation systems is important as it will help preserve our environment, benefit our drinking water infrastructure, and reduce costs for both us and our residents,” Clavin said, in a release. “The technology displayed during this event was astounding, and its wider utilization will play a significant role in reducing the amount of water we use on our lawns without sacrificing their health and beauty.”

Presentations focused on water conservation, especially when it comes to lawn irrigation. That can be especially problematic at the peak of summer, creating water pressure issues that could affect homes, businesses and especially first responders, as there may not be enough water available to fight fires.

Freeport engineer is honored for climate-change efforts

goals.

“Most of these objectives focus on finding cost effective solutions to the challenges of an electric grid that is evolving to accommodate renewable energy,’ Lopez said.

Lopez, who has a degree in electrical and computer engineering from NYU, moved to Freeport with his family in 2008 from the Philippines.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

HEMPSTEAD TOWN SUPERVISOR Don Clavin joins Irrigation Association of New York trustee Mike Dwyer to learn more about the irrigation technology offered by Rain Bird. The company was one of nearly 50 that attended a water conservation conference hosted by the Hempstead town officials in Merrick last month.

ed to maintain lawns — both saving water, and saving money.

Lopez saw a job listing for PSEG shortly after graduating from NYU in 2019 and was interested because he wanted to expand his knowledge of electrical engineering. He is one of the younger employees at PSEG and works with engineers who have worked there for over 40 years.

Lopez is a second-generation engineer after being inspired by his father. He grew up seeing all the electrical drawings his father would produce.

He is one of the younger employees at PSEG, which is an interesting dynamic as the company has engineers who have worked there for over 40 years.

constraints. The team is also looking at ways to ensure there are no power outages and to accommodate the growing number of electric vehicles.

They are planning up to 25 years into the future to ensure the grid can hold all the new renewables coming in.

The electricity grid challenges Lopez and PSEG face are not only relevant in their region but also worldwide. They are working on various initiatives using innovative technology and coordinating with different environmental groups outside the company.

Lopez focuses his concern about the impact of climate change, motivating him to work quickly and efficiently to preserve the planet for his future family and the coming generations.

“Especially since I’m like a younger person, climate change is at the top of my mind all of the time,” Lopez said.

Different technology is available that can limit water usage to only what’s need-

“Partnering with irrigation contractors allows us to make a greater impact on conservation,” said Shannen McDonald, water efficiency program manager for Liberty said, in a release. “Together, we can educate customers and make a true impact in the area of conservation.”

The Five Steps to an Elder Law Estate Plan

Elder law estate planning provides for (1) your care in the event you become disabled as you age, and who will be in charge of that care, and (2) the passing of your assets on death to whom you want, when you want, the way you want, with the least amount of taxes and legal fees possible. These are the five steps to creating such a plan.

Step One: Understanding the Family Dynamics. Clients often overlook the inestimable value of getting to know the family dynamic. We are firm believers that the social goes first and the legal should serve the social. Too often it is the other way around. Once we understand who’s who and everyone’s interpersonal relations with each other, we are far better able to craft a plan that will work socially as well as legally. The failure to address the social aspects has led to many a plan tearing the family apart.

Step Two: Reviewing the Client’s Assets. IRA’s and other “qualified” assets (i.e. tax deferred) are treated quite differently, on death or disability, from “non-qualified” assets. The determination of the amount and value of all assets, who owns them, and whether they have named beneficiaries are of the utmost importance in planning correctly,

including saving legal fees and taxes.

Step Three: Reviewing Existing Estate Planning Documents. Not having been prepared by an elder law attorney, clients’ documents rarely have adequate provisions to take advantage of the many benefits the law provides for our elderly population. Wills instead of trusts have often been prepared either because the client was considerably younger and a trust was not needed or a trust was needed but the general practice lawyer was unfamiliar with the specifics of preparing a trust.

Step Four: Developing the Elder Law Estate Plan. We are now in a position to determine which persons are best suited to handle your legal, financial and medical affairs on disability or death, what type of plan should be used and how the estate should be distributed — keeping in mind the preservation of harmony in the family.

Step Five: Executing and Maintaining the Plan. Legal documents are explained and executed, assets are retitled and beneficiaries on assets changed in keeping with planning objectives. The client is called in to the law firm every three years to ensure the plan meets the client’s current wishes and conforms with any law changes.

Starting in the distribution design department, Lopez was involved in a lot of field work and customer interaction. He moved to the Utility of the Future team, which focuses on renewable energy.

“The work that I do really makes me feel like I’m part of the community,” Lopez said.

Lopez, along with the rest of his team, are working to meet the climate initiative goals set by the state. The utility of the future team is working on integrated planning to address challenges of renewable energy integration into the grid.

The team develops maps to pinpoint areas where it may be a challenge to add more renewable resources due to capacity

With a workforce exceeding 250 employees, 10 percent of the PSEG Long Island staff has a diverse range of engineering expertise in fields such as civil, electrical, mechanical, industrial engineering, and energy management.

“Engineers at PSEG Long Island play many different important roles to ensure our 1.1 million customers have safe, reliable power,” interim president and chief operating officer of PSEG Long Island, David Lyons, who is also an electrical engineer, said. “National Engineers Week is the perfect time to recognize our highly talented, skilled and dedicated engineers who design, maintain and enhance electrical infrastructure on Long Island and in the Rockaways. We celebrate our engineers and thank them for the contributions they make every day to support our community.”

Valentines for veterans

Valentines for Veterans from students at Atkinson School, in Freeport, were collected by Hempstead Town Councilman Chris Carini and Town Clerk Kate Murray last month. Assistant Principal Dan Reardon, art teacher Emily Reardon and Superintendent Kishore Kuncham also attended.

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Freeport Housing Authority awarded grant

Freeport

joins 38 other housing authorities in the state to receive grant funding

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development granted $937,568 in funding to the Freeport Housing Authority on Feb. 24, which was one of nearly 2,770 public housing authorities to receive funding

Public housing authorities in all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia, received money to make capital investments to their public housing stock. . The grants were distributed to both large and small communities, rural and urban, with the primary aim of providing adequate and secure housing for the residents.

The total amount of funding granted across all the housing authorities was $3.16 billion, with $800 million distributed to 39 public housing authorities in New York.

“As I have traveled the country, I’ve heard time and again from families and seniors in public housing that a decent home in a safe community shouldn’t be too much to ask for,” Marcia L. Fudge, department secretary, said in a release. “With this investment, we are committing to work with our public housing authority partners to guarantee homes in public housing are worthy of the families and individuals who live there.”

The Capital Fund Program is an annual initiative that provides money to public

housing authorities, enabling them to improve and modernize their communities’ housing. This program allows housing authorities to undertake larger-scale upgrades, such as replacing roofs, upgrad-

ing heating systems, or installing water conservation measures.

The department’s “capital funding for public housing authorities is a lifeline that provides resources for necessary

maintenance and repairs so that residents’ homes are safe,” Alicia AmprySamuel, the department’s regional administrator for New York and New Jersey said. “Public housing authorities count on this funding to make repairs and ensure the preservation of subsidized housing for the families that need it most.”

For over 80 years, the federal government has been investing billions of dollars in developing and maintaining public housing, which includes the recent provision of support through the grants awarded last week.

The Freeport Housing Authority, which offers affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income families, is preparing to move into its new headquarters on Main Street almost a decade after Hurricane Sandy destroyed its previous location.

The new $65 million building is handicapped-accessible and will provide a more secure and intimate environment for staff to work with tenants and applicants.

The project was funded by municipal, state, and federal administrations, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The housing authority expects to move into the new building by the end of this month.

–Mohamed Farghaly

Courtesy Freeport Hosuing Authority

THE FREEPORT HOUSING Authority was awarded nearly $1 million in funding to allow for improvements to housing and those who need it.

Long Island’s top real estate pros honored

Hundreds attend annual Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Awards

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

The job of someone in real estate goes beyond just helping clients buy, sell or rent properties. For many professionals, it is about the rewarding feeling of finding a person or family’s “forever” home, and seeing their faces light up as they walk through the door.

Individuals in the industry often strive to offer listings or create developments with the goal of enhancing a community and providing potential homebuyers with a lifestyle they have always dreamed of.

The importance of community involvement and advocacy could not ring more true in the room of hundreds of real estate titans and visionaries at RichnerLive’s second annual Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Awards last week at The Heritage Club at Bethpage in Farmingdale.

“Real estate in my blood,” said Kevin Law, partner and executive vice president of Tritec Real Estate, and the keynote speaker of the evening. “I care about this island — I am hoping that the things I do can make a difference, and make this region a little bit better to live, work and play.”

This year’s REAL Awards honored dozens of professionals in residential and commercial real estate, with some proceeds from the event supporting Habitat for Humanity Long Island — a global non-profit organization whose mission is to bring people together to build affordable, environmentally stable homes for those in need.

Jennie Katz, president and owner of Blue Island Homes, said in her 27 years in the business, the room for creativity is what she finds the most exciting as a broker. For example, she and her business partner, Mark Stempel, are planning to collaborate with interior designers and decorators to stage a truck with all of Blue Island Homes’s listings.

“I started my own business with Mark 10 months ago, and it was about being creative and doing something different,” Katz said. “It’s about passion. It’s about working really hard and being honest.”

Michael Stanco, a licensed real estate broker for the Stanco Misiti team at Compass, talked about his special project, The Residences at Glen Harbor, which received a residential REAL Award at the event.

In the ever-changing housing market, Stanco said it is crucial to provide people with unique living opportunities such as The Residences at Glen Harbor — an alternative option to typical single-family homes.

Anthony Bartone, managing partner of Terwilliger and Bartone Properties, expressed a similar sentiment and discussed his philosophy of mindfulness when introducing projects to Long Island neighborhoods — specifically the environmental impact.

For example, Bartone’s organization pledged to only use native plantings in their developments because of the harmful risk invasive plants pose to the soil.

“It’s important that we set all this up to the extent we can for our next generation,” Bartone said.

The REAL Awards trailblazer Deidre O’Connell — chief executive of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty — grabbed the audience’s attention with her inspirational speech about Realtors pushing through pandemic obstacles these last few years.

She also shared some wisdom for the next generation of homebuyers who may feel a bit anxious when it comes to the prospect of living on Long Island. Statistically, people who buy homes accumulate more money at the end — money they would not have if they put it into renting a place, where there is no return.

“You got to get in the game,” O’Connell said. “Young people have to start at the bottom if their income isn’t going to get them in at the top. Once you’re in the game, you appreciate with the market.”

The major sponsors of the night included Easy Tax Credits, Tenantbase and Maidenbaum. Blue Island Homes, Coldwell Banker American Homes and E.W. Howell were gold sponsors of the evening.

Silver sponsors included Ackerman Law, Breslin Realty Development Corp., Coldwell Banker Distinctive Homes, Cronin & Cronin Law Firm, Cushman & Wakefield, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, Douglas Elliman, GLS, Habitat Abstract, Hayduk Engineering, Heatherwood, Japan Schlesinger Narendran, Lipsky Construction, Long Island Board of Realtors, M&T Bank, Property Shark, R&M Engineering, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz,

SMR, Stanco Misiti Team at Compass, Terwilliger & Bartone Properties, The Gitto Group, Valley Bank, Weatherstone Mortgage Corp.

“Our second annual REAL awards was another huge success,” exclaimed Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications, which created the REAL Awards. “Where else can you find so many individuals and organizations that fuel our local economy? The award recipients are staples in our communities, and their recognition is well-deserved. I am excited to see all that the future holds for

Long Island.”

Tim Baker/Herald photos MARk STeMple, ceO of Blue Island Homes, accepts his REAL Award with company president Jennie Katz and Herald Community Media publisher Stuart Richner.

DeiRDRe O’cONNell, ceO of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, shared her experiences as a trailblazer at the REAL Awards at The Heritage Club at Bethpage in Farmingdale.

keviN lAw, pARTNeR and executive vice president of Tritec Real Estate, delivers the keynote address at the REAL Awards.

FAthER/ dAughtER

tEAm giLbERt and Tiffany Balanoff, above, were recognized for Gilbert’s work with The Law Offices of Gilbert Balanoff, and Tiffany’s job as a licensed real estate agent at Douglas Elliman.

miRiAm hAgEndoRn gEts her REAL Award from Stuart Richner, at left, for her work as a licensed real estate salesperson a Serhant.

2023 Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Award winners

Residential

The Residences at Glen Harbor

Michael W. Stanco

Stanco Misiti Team at Compass

Gina Marie Bettenhauser

Coldwell Banker Distinctive Homes Long Island Board of Realtors

Hilary Becker Becker Realty Services Inc.

Molly Deegan Branch Real Estate Group

John & Barbara Gandolfo

Coldwell Banker American Homes

Kevin Leatherman Leatherman Homes

Donna O’Reilly Einemann

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Luciane Serifovic Luxian International Realty

Shawn Steinmuller

Shawn Michael Realty

Mark Stempel & Jennie Katz Blue Island Homes

Helena Veloso

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Malka Asch Coach Realtors

Miriam Hagendorn Serhant

Ricki Noto Coldwell Banker American Homes

Scott Wallace

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

David Kasner Coldwell Banker American Homes

Commercial

Thomas DeLuca

Cushman & Wakefield of Long Island

Anthony Bartone

Terwilliger & Bartone Properties LLC

Kenneth Breslin, Esq. Breslin Realty Development Corp.

Christopher Capece

Heatherwood

Rob Gitto

The Gitto Group

Mark Meisner

The Birch Group

E.W. Howell Construction Group

Special Awards

Michael Maturo

RXR Realty

Martin Lomazow

CBRE

Michael S. Ackerman Ackerman Law PLLC

John D. Chillemi

Ruskin Moscou Faltischek PC

Bryan P. McCrossen

Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP

Christopher H. Palmer Cullen and Dykman LLP

Ellen N. Savino

Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC

Commercial Industrial Broker Society of Long Island

David Pennetta

Stephen A. Hayduk

Hayduk Engineering LLC

Gilbert Balanoff

The Law Offices of Gilbert Balanoff PC

Tiffany Balanoff

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Nicholas Ceccarini

Weatherstone Mortgage Corp.

Christine Curiale Valley Bank

Melissa Curtis Contour Mortgage

Michael Steinberg

Hedgestone Business Advisors

Alex Lipsky Lipsky Construction

Sean M. Cronin, Esq. Cronin & Cronin Law Firm PLLC

Ryan J. Coyne Serhant

VincePropertyShark PropertyShark.com

Habitat Abstract

dAvid KAsnER, bRAnch manager of Coldwell Banker American Homes, at left, and Daniel Williams, president of E.W. Howell Construction Group, at right, get their awards from Stuart Richner.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Hundreds of Honorees, guests and sponsored enjoyed refreshments and conversation ahead of the second annual REAL Awards hosted by RichnerLive.

Bryan McCrossen, Center at top-left, a partner at Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran, joins strategic marketer and financial educator Jesika Kalika in the selfie booth.

JoHn frasCella, MaidenBauM’s residential property tax supervisor, was a major sponsor of the REAL Awards.

tHoMas deluCa, senior director and real estate broker at Cushman & Wakefield of Long Island — at left —enjoys a moment before receiving a REAL Award of his own.

Courtesy Le Selfie

Courtesy Le Selfie Helena Veloso, at center in pink, has fun with the rest of her Douglas Elliman Real Estate team at the selfie booth at the REAL Awards.

It all started the moment she raised her hand

By MALLORY WILSON mwilson@liherald.com

When Randi Shubin Dresner was 8, she raised her hand during a school assembly — and that one action shaped the course of her life.

The assembly, at McVey Elementary School in East Meadow, was focused on the March of Dimes, an organization that works to improve the health of mothers and babies. Representatives were there to talk about an upcoming walk-a-thon, and they asked students if they wanted to serve as school representatives for the event. Shubin Dresner didn’t hesitate to raise her hand.

“I raised my hand at 8 years old, and I never put it down again,” she said. “I volunteered through my entire childhood at the March of Dimes, as well as a couple of other organizations.”

Shubin Dresner, now 62, is the president and chief executive officer of Island Harvest, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization, based in Melville. The food bank has a wide variety of programs to help feed those in need, from children to seniors and veterans.

She started there in 2001, after meeting longtime Island Harvest board member Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications and publisher of the Heralds, in an elevator at a networking event. At the time, Shubin Dresner was working at the Heckscher Museum of Art. She talked to Richner about the possibility of sponsoring an event the museum was having.

“In the time it took to go from one floor to the next, I introduced myself, told him about the organization that I worked with, and almost got him to become a sponsor of the event,” she recalled. “He is and was a board member at Island Harvest, and went back to the organization and said, ‘I just met this person — you better call her and recruit her to come to Island Harvest.’”

Shubin Dresner said that she turned the job down more

than once before deciding to make the switch to the food bank. “It was an interesting mission that I could relate to, and it was a very small organization at the time,” she said.

“I was encouraged by the fact that the board recognized that there was a lot of growth potential, and the board put a lot of trust in me and my vision for the organization.”

Island Harvest wasn’t the first time she explored her potential as a leader. Shubin Dresner has been in the nonprofit sector her whole life. In middle school, she started her own March of Dimes chapter in her basement, and recruited her friends.

“I just liked what they were talking about,” she recalled.

“I liked their enthusiasm, and their excitement about the work they were doing, and I wanted to be part of it.”

HistoRy MontH WOMEN’S

At 17, she became a full-time employee at March of Dimes. And from there, she never looked back. Before landing at Island Harvest, she spent time at the Viscardi Center, in Albertson, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, among other organizations. At the National MS Society, she served as executive director of the Nassau County chapter, and at just 23, she transformed it from a failing organization to an award-winning chapter.

“I knew from an early age that this was going to be my career,” Shubin Dresner said. “I loved doing fundraising, I loved presenting and talking at groups, and giving back to the community, and creating programs that support that community.”

Many of her early career years were shaped by her time at the March of Dimes and the role models she met there — especially the organization’s executive director at the time, Lottie Seligman.

“In the mid- to late ’60s, there weren’t a lot of women in business,” Shubin Dresner said. “I watched (Seligman) and tried to model her in my early years of building my career. The women who were the directors and managers at the organization really taught me a lot. I had really incredible women models in my career.”

Now, at Island Harvest, she prides herself on the relationship she has with the board of directors, and how much she’s been able to involve her family in her lifelong mission of helping others.

“I’m honored to be in this work,” she said. “I’m honored to have this opportunity to work at organizations for an entire career that has an impact on changing lives.”

Herald file photo

RANdI ShuBIN dReSNeR, chief executive and president of Island Harvest, has worked in nonprofits since she was a child.

College union continues push for ‘fair contracts’

By ANDRE SILVA asilva@liherald.com

The Nassau Community College Full Time Faculty union gathered last month to voice its need for “fair contracts.”

The union was there in full view of the Nassau Community College trustees, who had gathered for their monthly board meeting at the Nassau Community College Tower. They walked straight into the crowd of college faculty and students on the 11th floor, ready to share their support for a new contract that they say would better favor educators.

Higher wages are especially important now with inflation so high, according to union secretary Suzanne Kaebnick. Also soaring are housing and transportation costs, which years of wage freezes or slight increases cannot even begin to cover.

Faculty wages, Kaebnick said, simply have not kept up with the cost of living in Nassau County.

Union president Faren Siminoff said full-time faculty has made sacrifices for the better part of a decade now.

“It’s time the college acknowledges this, and it starts by giving us a fair contract,” Siminoff said. “Some speakers (at the meeting) empha -

sized the plight of ‘junior’ faculty, those hired after 2014. Their firstyear salaries are below $60,000.”

Add in mandatory contributions into pensions and health insurance premiums, would cost an additional $10,000 for family coverage in the New York State Health Insurance Program Empire Plan — and even more if the faculty member is enrolled in the Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance plan.

Low starting salaries lead to difficulty attracting qualified applicants, the union said.

NCC attorney John Gross told the Herald that employee contributions to health insurance premiums are a common structure at colleges, businesses and municipalities throughout the nation.

“The college and the faculty union agreed some time ago that if health insurance premiums increase during negotiations, the cost is passed along to those enjoying coverage,” Gross said.

Gross maintains that a provision in the union’s previous contract allows increases in health insurance costs to be passed on to educators if they go up while no contract is in place.

That leaves it up to the union members to shoulder those additional costs through payroll deductions.

Courtesy Suzanne Kaebnick

THE NASSAU COMMUNITY College Full Time Faculty union gathered at the college’s trustees board meeting to voice their need for ‘fair contracts’ last month at the Nassau Community College Tower.

County maps ‘not perfect,’ but still ‘fair’

New legislative districts approved along partisan lines

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

After dozens of hearings, months of public input and several heated exchanges among Nassau County lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, a final district map drawing out borders for the 19 legislative districts for the next 10 years has finally passed.

All 11 Republicans of the majority voted for the map, while seven Democratic minority members voted in opposition. For those on the wrong side of the vote, it was a disappointing — but inevitable — end to community members and Democratic officials who have been vocal over their claims of partisan gerrymandering.

“Tomorrow morning, students in Nassau County are going to wake up to a snow day,” Democratic legislator Josh Lafazan said ahead of the region’s first real snowfall of the season. “This legislative body is going to wake up to a lawsuit.

“Our constituents lose tonight, and nobody wins.”

Before the evening vote, some members of the community gathered to express final pleas for the Nassau County Legislature to not approve the map. They claim the map fails to include five majority-minority districts, it violates state and federal voting laws, neglects to consider racial demographics, and dilutes minority votes in communities such as Lakeview and Freeport.

In fact, dozens of Lakeview residents turned up at a previous public hearing sharing stories of their fight for equality and fair representation.

The current map places Lakeview — a predominantly Black community of more than 6,200 people — in a district with predominantly white communities likeMalverne, Lynbrook, West Hempstead and East Rockaway.

Scottie Coads said the hearts of her Lakeview neighbor are “hurting” because of this decision.

“I almost went to tears when I saw our hard work being put into a district with Lynbrook and Malverne,” Coads said. “Those people don’t even want us there. They don’t even talk to us.”

Doris Hicks Newkirk, president of the Lakeview NAACP and former educator in the Malverne school district, said she knows of young Black students who have been told to “go back where they came from,” and called racial slurs.

Lisa Ortiz, one of the founding members of the Lakeview Civic Association, talked about how the Malverne district became the first in the state to be forced into desegregation — more than a decade after the national Brown v. Board of Education decision.

For more than 60 years, many representatives of Lakeview and the school district fought to have a street name of a Ku Klux Klan leader removed — only recently accomplishing this feat.

Fast forward to today, the redistricting process is another hurdle the Lakeview community is not backing down on.

“When we think about disenfranchis-

ing — when you think about gerrymandering — you think about making sure that you are silencing a community that has a very, very loud voice,” Ortiz said.

“That’s exactly what you’re doing.”

County legislature minority leader Kevan Abrahams called out his Republican colleagues for choosing secrecy over transparency during the redistricting process, especially when it came to the legal fees for the analysis provided by Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders LLP.

“We have the power and the authority tonight to do the right thing,” Abrahams said. “Unfortunately, this map is going to go forward, and this body is choosing to vote for a map that is illegal. None of us want this. I’d rather things get worked out, because ultimately, the lawsuit is

going to cost taxpayers money.”

But presiding officer Richard Nicolello said numerous changes were made to the map to acknowledge this input. He also admitted not every request was addressed in the final proposal, but in the end, the district lines were considered fair and applicable to state and federal laws.

“Did we make every requested change? No. Is this map perfect? No. But perfection is impossible in redistricting,” Nicolello said. “This map is a fair map. It provides for equal representation for all our residents, and protects community interests as much as possible.”

sCOTTie COAds Of Lakeview expresses her anger over countywide district maps at several public hearings before Nassau County lawmakers ahead of them passing a final proposal late last month. For decades, Coads has fought for fair representation in Lakeview, a predominantly Black community placed in a district with Malverne, Lynbrook and East Rockaway.

NAssAU COUNTy LegisLATOR and Democratic minority leader Kevan Abrahams joined his political colleagues voting against a proposed countywide redistricting map last month. The votes weren’t enough, but Abrahams wanted to be on the record for his claims the map represented partisan gerrymandering while violating voting rights protections for minority communities.

Ana Borruto/Herald photos

NAssAU COUNTy LegisLATURe presiding officer Richard Nicolello shared heated exchanges with minority caucus leader Kevan Abrahams over the past few weeks over the new countywide district map. At the final meeting, Nicolello and 10 other Republican majority members voted in favor of their map, admitting that while it is not perfect, it is fair and protects community interests.

STEPPING OUT

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

A sweet time awaits at the Surrounded by confections

By Karen Bloom

Smitten by chocolate, and so much more. Temptations await at the Chocolate Expo’s latest edition, ready to entice everyone on March 12.

By Karen Bloom

The popular event is back on Long Island to delight chocoholics at its new location — Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex in Hempstead, for a day-long foodie paradise. More than 80 vendors — representing Long Island, New England and elsewhere, even international purveyors — will share their sweet and savory wares during this unique foodcentric festival.

WHERE WHEN

Pat McGann

Expo

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

• Sunday, March 12, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Tickets are $20 adult, $15 ages 5-12 or $30 adult, $15 ages 5-12 at door; available from TheChocolateExpo.com

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

• Hofstra University, David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex, Hempstead

Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines power of the arts in society.

Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence. the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April. interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to collective power of the arts to build community, create change, and chart national recovery in the areas of social justice, civic participation and unlike other recent exhibits that showcased the museum’s collection, Giordano reached out to contemporary artists who loaned selected works. Some 36 pieces are on view — representing Emma Amos, Molly Crabapple and the Equal Justice Initiative, Miguel Luciano, Michele Pred, Hank Willis Thomas, and Sophia climate is now, this exhibit could not be more timely than Albert adds. highlights, she points to the series of prints from the Freedoms. Their four large scale photos are based on 1943 oil paintings inspired by President Franklin D. State of the Union address that outlined what he essential four democratic values freedom of speech, worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. For interpreted these iconic works for our era. composition,” Albert says. “From 1940s America, what America is today, our diversity and what we look museum offers additional enhance the exhibit experience. include an artist panel on Feb. 23, the role of the artist as activist, and a Alexandra Giordano, March 16.

Founder Marvin Baum says this year’s event includes many first-time vendors as well as a diversity of offerings — even some for your beloved pooch. As Baum puts it: “People take care of themselves with special treats, so why not let your pet enjoy some, too?

Visitors can celebrate and indulge in gourmet chocolates, baked goods, specialty items, cheeses, wines, spirits, hard ciders, craft sodas, and much more. Of course tasting is very much a part of it all — starting from the moment you enter. Guests are greeted by fountains overflowing with dark, white and milk chocolates, in which a selection of fresh fruit, marshmallows pretzels and Rice Krispies treats can be deliciously drenched.

“When you go to these festivals, you remember something you tried that you can’t get elsewhere,” Baum says. “That’s what we try to do with this.”

Participating chocolatiers offer chocolate bonbons, chocolate bars,

raw chocolate, hot chocolate, chocolate fudge, chocolate novelties, chocolate barks and chocolate-covered goodies, chocolatecovered soft pretzels, even chocolatecovered bacon. Cupcakes, brownies, doughnuts, and assorted cakes are showcased along with other gluten-free offerings and other baked goods, while hot cocoa, wine, and hard ciders, and even chocolate moonshine, will be among the craft beverages available for tasting and purchase.

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.

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.

The Ugly Duckling

Lightwire Theater brings a classic tale to the modern stage. Since bursting to national acclaim after appearing as semi-finalists on ‘America’s Got Talent’ and winning the top honors on truTV’s ‘Fake Off,’ Lightwire has gone on to enthrall audiences worldwide with their unique combination of skill and grace as told through the technological innovations of moving light characters. In this unforgettable theatrical experience — created with electroluminescent wire — the beloved story of ‘The Ugly Duckling’ plays out through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance. Ideally suited to kids through Grade 6, all ages will enjoy this innovative re-imagining of the beloved tale, with its dazzling visuals, poignant choreography and creative use of music ranging from classical to pop.

Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m. $28.

Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

Yarn/Wire

“We’re really excited to be here,” Baum says, noting that his chocolate-fest has emerged from the pandemic renewed and reinvigorated. “We love to work with local vendors and support new businesses by introducing people to them.”

These include: The Best Goody Bag, a Valley Stream baker of custom birthday cakes and other birthday-related treats; Peace Love & Hot Chocolate, a purveyor of gourmet hot chocolate kits, based in Island Park; Uncle Jeff’s Pecan Pies, a Wantagh baker, who’s all about pie — pecan pie that defies imagination; and West Hempstead’s Sunflower Bake Shop, which specializes in kosher and vegan baked goods.

If your palate reaches sensory overload, take a break for a while and check out some of the many activities that round out the day. Magician Eric Wilzig, of “America’s Got Talent” fame, performs two high-energy “extreme” magic shows on the Expo stage. Actor Paris Themmen — who starred as Mike TeeVee in the original “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” film — is on the scene to greet guests from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., plus he does an interview noon, followed by audience Q&A.

Also appearing is chef Francis Legge, a winner of Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” and a contestant on Netflix’s “Snack vs. Chef,” who will do an on-stage demonstration, while Long Island’s DJ Chef, who won Food Network’s “Cuthroat Kitchen,” does his “Beats & Sweets Interactive Cooking Show,” combining his passions for food and music. Kids will enjoy face painting and balloon twisting activities in the Kidz Zone, along with chocolate-themed crafts.

Now in its 18th year, Adelphi University’s ‘new music’ series welcomes Yarn/Wire. The intrepid New York-based piano-percussion quartet has forged a singular path with endlessly inventive collaborations, commissions and performances that have made a significant contribution to the canon of experimental works. The quartet features founding member Laura Barger and Julia Den Boer on piano and Russell Greenberg, also a founding member, and Sae Hashimoto playing percussion. Barger is a frequent guest with many top American contemporary ensembles. French-American Den Boer performs internationally as a soloist and chamber musician. Greenberg is in demand with varied ensembles. Hashimoto, the newest member, contributes a unique approach to performance cultivated by her intensive classical training .

Friday, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. $30 with discounts available to seniors, students, alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

The Sicilian Tenors

The Sicilian Tenors bring their dynamic sound to Tilles Center, ready to put their spin on the classics, and so much more. The three classically trained tenors sing their own interpretations of some of the world’s best music in this lively evening. It’s a journey from Hollywood to Broadway to Italy as these operatic voices perform a wide selection of beloved songs. Combined with light-hearted fun, Aaron Caruso, Elio Scaccio and Sam Vitale put on an appealing show for everyone — all ages and musical tastes. They are a fresh and accessible take on the great Italian musical tradition. Always in demand, their special blend of classic opera and Broadway hits, along with Rat Pack-type shenanigans is a consistent crowdpleaser.

Saturday, March 18, 8 p.m. $52, $42, $32. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or TillesCenter.org.

Photos courtesy Chuck Fishman Take your pick. This year’s Chocolate Expo is a showcase of scrumptious bites.

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

Courtesy Hofstra Universally Museum of Art Rockwell’s celebrated ‘Four Freedoms’ are reinHank Willis Thomas and Emily Shur in Gottesman and the Wyatt Gallery.

Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York. Thomas, ‘Lives of Others,’ 2014, made resin and standing 57 inches tall

THE SCENE

March 15

Georgia O’Keeffe

The New York Times described Georgia O’Keeffe as “the undisputed doyenne of American painting” in 1986 when she died at the age of 98. At an early age, O’Keeffe had a sense of color and shape. Join Louise Cella Caruso as she delves into the artist behind the art, Wednesday, March 15, 1 p.m. To attend in person, at 144 W. Merrick Road, register at FreeportLibrary.info and click on the date of the program in the event calendar. To attend virtually, visit the date of the program in the event calendar and click on the link provided. Call (516) 379-3274 for more information.

Escape room

The singer-songwriter visits the Landmark stage, Saturday, April 1, 8 p.m. Nestled somewhere between power-pop and American folk you will find Willie Nile strumming his guitar. A true believer in rock n’ roll, over the years Nile has made admirers out of Bruce Springsteen and Pete Townshend who personally requested him to tour with The Who, among others who sing his praises. The New York Times called him “one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years.” Nile shares the stage with James Maddock; their pairing results in an exciting evening of roots rock. $42, $36, $31. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

Risa Asami fundraiser

Risa Asami has undergone multiple surgeries since November, resulting in the amputation of both of her legs. Despite her challenging circumstances, she remains in good spirits, though she is primarily out-of-pocket for her continued care. In support of Risa, friends and colleagues have organized a fundraiser, Saturday, March 11, 6 to 9 p.m., at Jeremy’s Ale House, 239 Woodcleft Ave. The event includes raffles, gift certificates and a dinner buffet. All are welcome to attend and show their support. Those unable to attend can donate to her GoFundMe at tinyurl.com/ HelpAsami.

Patriot Hose Company No. 4 presents Comedy Night

March 25

Participate in an Escape Room live action game, Saturday, March 25, at Freeport Memorial Library 144 W. Merrick Road. Register online at FreeportLibrary.info, by phone, (516) 379-3274, or in person at the ASK Desk or Children’s Room.

Freeport Hose Company No. 4,15 Broadway, hosts its annual comedy show at the Freeport Fire Department Headquarters, Saturday, March 11. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show begins at 8:30 p.m. Acts include Dan Altano, Crazy Gene and Chris Monty. Tickets are $25, available at (516) 4566409. For more information visit @freeporthose4 on Facebook or Instagram.

Willie Nile

Freeport Memorial Library Art Advisory

Artists who work in oils, watercolors, graphic arts, photography and threedimensional media are encouraged to apply for a one-month, one-person show at Freeport Memorial Library in 2023-2024. Interested parties should download an application from the website, FreeportLibrary. info. Submit an application with 10 sample images (jpg format) that represent the artwork you wish to display. Applications can be emailed to Eileen Sullivan atesullivan@ freeportlibrary.info or sent through regular mail to: Eileen Sullivan, Freeport Memorial Library, 144 West Merrick Road, Freeport, NY 11520. The deadline for submission is May 15. For more information, email Eileen Sullivan, Art Advisory Committee Liaison, at esullivan@freeportlibrary. info, or call (516) 379-3274, ext. 501.

Having an event?

March 15

In concert

Singer-songwriters Kala Farnham and Lara Herscovitch share the bill and swap songs during the monthly Hard Luck Café series, copresented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, Wednesday, March 15 , 7-10 p.m. An open mic precedes the concert, in Cinema’s Sky Room, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. $20. For tickets and information, visit CinemaArtsCentre.org.

Bethany House Fashion Show Fundraiser

Bethany House invites everyone to their 20th annual fashion show fundraiser, Wednesday, March 15, 6-9 p.m. The event is at Rockville Centre Links, 600 North Long Beach Road. For more information, call (516) 824-2753.

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.

Breastfeeding Support Group

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.

Yoga at the Rec Center

Fresh air, flexibility, and the peaceful traditions of yoga are featured in yoga classes, Wednesdays, at the Freeport Recreation Center, 130 E. Merrick Road. The classes start at 7 pm., outdoors if weather permits. Call (516) 377-2314 for information.

‘Forever Plaid’

Plaza Theatrical is ready to spring forward with “Forever Plaid,” an affectionate musical homage to the close harmony guy groups that reached the height of their popularity during the ‘50s, Saturday, March 18, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, March 19, 2:30 p.m.; Thursday, March 23, 2 p.m. The show features such hits as “Three Coins in a Fountain,” “Heart and Soul,” “Catch a Falling Star,” and “Love is A Many Splendored Thing.” It’s performed at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $49, $45 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Family theater

Everyone’s favorite cat comes to mischievous life in this theatrical adaptation of the Dr. Seuss classic, presented Plaza Theatrical Productions, Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m.; Sunday, March 12, noon. See what goes on during that rainy day when two siblings are home alone with their pet fish while their parents are out of town, and the tall cat wearing a hat appears. Tickets are $15. Visit the Plaza stage at The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore. For information/tickets, go to PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.

Blakeman claims a successful first year

By MICHAEL MALASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

It’s been a little more than a year since Bruce Blakeman officially took office as Nassau County executive. Since then, how much has life improved for the nearly 1.4 million people living under his administration?

Significantly. At least according to Blakeman, thanks to his work with the majority party in the Nassau County Legislature. Triumphs Blakeman shared as part of his Feb. 28 State of the County address.

And there was a lot on Blakeman’s plate, after taking over for Laura Curran — not all that could be handled at the county level. Inflation. Catalytic converter theft. Support for local businesses. Bringing Nassau out of the Covid-19 era. And challenging some proposals that had made their way down from Albany.

“Our administration increased the boost (of the) Nassau Main Street grants program by an additional $10 million to support small businesses and keep family-owned businesses in Nassau County,” Blakeman said. He also met with professionals and entrepreneurs from a number of communities to begin work on expanding opportunities “for all people so that every community in every person — Black, white, Asian, Hispanic and Latino — share in our county’s prosperity.”

It is important to invest in local business because Nassau is bigger than 10 states by population, and has a higher gross domestic product than 145 countries, Blakeman said. And there is something in the works that could shake this up even more — the proposed plan to bring a Las Vegas Sands casino to the Nassau Coliseum.

“We are considering this proposal, and I have consistently stated that we would keep an open mind,” Blakeman said. But there are conditions.

“It must be world-class, with a luxury hotel and entertainment component,” he said. “It must bring significant

In HIS StAtE of the County speech on Feb. 28, Nassau executive Bruce Blakeman praised what he described as a successful first year in office, giving credit to law enforcement and the county legislature for working with him on a number of initiatives to help bring some of his campaign promises to fruition.

revenue to the county and surrounding areas, including construction and permanent jobs. And third, it must have the support of the community.”

A cornerstone of the Blakeman administration has been tackling the mass thefts of catalytic converters in Nassau. Some of that concluded in December with “Operation Cat-Track,” partnering with Nassau County Police Department commissioner Patrick Ryder to recover $7 million worth of stolen converters. The operation, Blakeman added, put a significant dent on an organized crime ring responsible for the thefts.

“I especially want to thank Sen. Chuck Schumer for

asking the Department of Justice to help us and send a special response team to mobilize and to help crack down on these thefts,” Blakeman said.

While the Republican executive crossed party lines to praise Schumer, he still had some harsh words for Joe Biden, blaming the president’s border policies for the current fentanyl crisis.

Democrats closer to home — in his county legislature took issue with some of what Blakeman said, specifically where the credit should go for the positive direction in the last year.

“While we got off to a very rocky start when the county executive first took office, there has been some progress,” County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said as part of the Democratic response. “I am glad to report that minority-led proposals have been adopted, including a gas tax holiday, (and) tax relief for eligible seniors and disabled homeowners. And just this Monday, property tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.”

However, DeRiggi-Whitton hit Blakeman over the ongoing county tax assessment issue, which remains frozen. Blakeman maintained in the speech that much of the issue with tax assessment is still the fault of the Curran administration, which froze it during the pandemic.

As for fentanyl? DeRiggi-Whitton agreed the crisis must be addressed, but isn’t spending time pointing fingers.

“With fentanyl overdoses posing such a major threat, the Minority Caucus has introduced a law which would require low-cost fentanyl detecting strips to be included in every Narcan kit distributed by a county agency,” she said of the packages used to help save lives of those suffering opioid overdoses.

“Even though we have seen the potential of this approach in towns, cities and states across the United States, there has been no action by the majority on our proposal to date.”

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE/NOTICIA PUBLICA

FREEPORT VILLAGE ELECTION/ELECCIÓN DE LA VILLA DE FREEPORT (Spanish Language Translation provided in accordance with Federal Court Decision)

TO THE ELECTORS OF THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

A LOS VOTANTES DE LA VILLA DE FREEPORT, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK

The following is a true and correct list of all nominations of candidates for the offices to be filled at the Village Election to be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. as filed with me pursuant to the provisions of the ELECTION LAW. Offices to be filled:

La siguiente es una verdadera y correcta lista de todas las nominaciónes de los candidatos para las oficinas que van a ser ocupadas en la Elección de la Villa, la cual tomará lugar el martes, 21 de marzo de 2023, entre las horas de 7:00 A.M. y las 9:00 P.M. tal como fue presentada ante mi en conformidad con las disposiciónes de la LEY de ELECCIONES. Oficinas para cubrir:

Two (2) Trustees for a four (4) year term of office.

Dos (2) Fideicomisarios para un término de oficina de cuatro (4) años.

Name of Candidates Public Office Term Place of Residence

Nombre de Candidatos Oficina Pública Término Lugar de Residencia

CANDIDATES OF UNITY HOME RULE PARTY

CANDIDATOS DEL PARTIDO UNITY HOME RULE

Jorge A. Martinez Trustee 4 years 80 Van Buren Street Fideicomisarios 4 años

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, under Securitization

Servicing Agreement

Dated as of August 1, 2005 Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust Mortgage Pass Through Certificates, Series 2005-HE3, Plaintiff AGAINST

Steven S. Montgomery; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

duly entered May 18, 2022 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 22, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 225 Church Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 62 Block 55 Lot 38. Approximate amount of judgment $589,384.72 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 614148/2017. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 30, 2023

137399

21-025 Bayview Avenue School

Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk, Village of Freeport Oficinista de la Villa de Freeport

March 9, 2023

9 de marzo 2023

137898

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

HSBC Bank USA, National Association, as Trustee for Nomura Asset-Backed Certificate Series, 2006-AF1, Plaintiff

AGAINST

Hasan Ozcan a/k/a H. Ozcan; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

duly entered March 26, 2019 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on

March 22, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 16 Smith Street, Inwood, NY 11096. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Inwood, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section: 40 Block:

70 Lot: 6. Approximate amount of judgment

$864,388.39 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 007131/2012. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19

Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed

Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Malachy Lyons, Jr., Esq.,

Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP

f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 13, 2023

137396

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CSAB MORTGAGE-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-3, Plaintiff - against - VALERIA GUZMAN, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 23, 2017. 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 16th day of March, 2023 at 2:30 PM.

All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 99 Evans Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520.

(SBL#: 55 - 391 - 186, 55 - 391 - 187) Approximate amount of lien $586,928.31 plus interest and costs.

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

Index No. 009001/2008.

Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: January 6, 2023

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.

137381

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v. KIM GUNDERSON, SCOTT HARKOFF, ET AL, Defendant. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on September 24, 2019, I, Ellen Durst, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on March 20, 2023 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, County of Nassau, State of New York, at 2:00 PM the premises described as follows:

271 President Street Freeport, NY 11520 SBL No: 62-59-13, 14, 15 and 16

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 008366/2015 in the amount of $526,036.62 plus interest and costs.

Foreclosure Auctions 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 foreclosure auction.

Richard S. Mullen

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Plaintiff’s Attorney 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 137391

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 008859/2015. James Pascarella, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

137388

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU

THE BANK OF NEW YORK

MELLON TRUST COMPANY N.A. AS SUCCESSOR-IN-INTEREST TO ALL PERMITTED

SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS OF JPMORGAN CHASE BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ADJUSTABLE RATE

MORTGAGES TRUST

2005-3 MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES, V. JOSE D. ALVAREZ, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated February 5, 2019, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY N.A. AS SUCCESSOR-IN-INTEREST TO ALL PERMITTED SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS OF JPMORGAN CHASE BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES TRUST

2005-3 MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES is the Plaintiff and JOSE D. ALVAREZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 21, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 29 FRANKEL AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520: Section 54, Block 197, Lot

183:

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

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MAROON PLAINS TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. LIONEL HUMPHREY, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 23, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 28, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 18 Oakfield Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 491 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $951,089.27 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 20191/2010. 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 Lieberman, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro,

565 Taxter

Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff 137527

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ROSE BROWN, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order

Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 6, 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 March 28, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 79 Mount Joy Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 398 and Lots 332, 333, and 334.

Approximate amount of judgment is $312,021.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609848/2019. 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 Ricciardi, Esq., Referee

Greenspoon Marder, 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022, Attorneys for Plaintiff 137541

State of New York, Section: 62, Block: 095, Lot: 132, 133, 134. Approximate amount of judgment is $303,577.10 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612262/2019.

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

JOHN G. KENNEDY, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 137478

Foreclosure Auctions 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 foreclosure auction.

Richard S. Mullen

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Plaintiff’s Attorney 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072

137482

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S.

BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR LEHMAN MORTGAGE TRUST MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-2, Plaintiff AGAINST LATCHMIN BANKS, ET AL.,

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. CHRISTINE ARIS, ET AL., Defendant (s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

duly entered on October 12, 2022 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, on the North Side steps, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York on March 29, 2023 at 2:00 P.M., premises known as 66 MARTHA STREET, FREEPORT, NEW YORK 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v. ZOILA VILLAFUERTE A/K/A ZOILA BOGLE, ADAM BOGLE, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, SLOMIN’S INC., “JANE DOE” (REFUSED NAME)

AS JOHN DOE #1, “JANE DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2, Defendant. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on December 05, 202, I, Melvyn K. Roth, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on March 27, 2023 at The North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, County of Nassau, State of New York, at 2:00 PM the premises described as follows:

288 Wallace Street Freeport, NY 11520

SBL No: 55-N-3

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 604340/2017 in the amount of $492,875.09 plus interest and costs.

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 25, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 3, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 957 JEROME STREET, BALDWIN HARBOR, NY 11510. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin Harbor, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 553, Lot 22. Approximate amount of judgment $516,562.22 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608105/2017. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure

Auctions will be held

“Rain or Shine”. Kathleen

M. DiCola, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221

17-003759 75017

137623

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY.

BOARD OF MANAGERS OF WHARFSIDE CONDOMINIUM, Pltf. vs. BRANDON LANCE FARLEY, et al, Defts. Index #605434/2021.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated Feb.17, 2022, I will sell at public auction on

the north side front steps of the Nassau County Courthouse, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 725 Miller Avenue, Unit 302, Freeport, NY a/k/a Section 62, Block 103, Lot 245 CA 113. The real property above described is a Unit shown on the Plans of a Condominium prepared and certified by Baldwin & Cornelius, PC and filed in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on the 12th day of December, 1985, as Map No. CA113, defined in the Declaration of Condominium entitled, “Warfside Condominium made by Freeport Nautical Development Company under Article 9B of the New York Real Property Law dated May 14, 1985 and recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on December 12, 1985 in Liber 9689 of Conveyances at Page 313 covering the property therein described. Being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of NY, known and designated as and by Lot No.173 to 244, both inclusive, on a certain map entitled, “Map of Freeport Beach, Section 1 at Freeport, Long Island, Property of John J. Randall Co., First National Bank Building, 47-51 Railroad Avenue, Freeport, Long Island, New York, surveyed October, 1924 by Smith & Malcomson, Freeport, Long Island,” and filed in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on Aug.27, 1925 as Map No. 572, Case No. 569. Together with a .7424% undivided interest in the common elements of the Condominium hereinafter referred to. Approx. amt. of judgment is $22,830.61 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.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the auction. PAUL GUTTENBERG, Referee. JAY L. YACKOW, Attys. for Pltf. 355 Post Avenue, Ste. 201, Westbury, NY.

#100128

137715

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

AJX MORTGAGE TRUST II, A DELAWARE TRUST, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, TRUSTEE, Plaintiffagainst- KIRK JOHNSON

A/K/A KIRK L. JOHNSON, ELAINE JOHNSON, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated October 28, 2019

and entered on October 29, 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, NY on April 4th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York; known and designated as Section: 55 Block: 401 Lots: 263, 264. The Foreclosure Sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s COVID-19 Policies and Foreclosure Auction Rules. 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.

The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Foreclosure Auctions 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 foreclosure auction.

Said premises known as 382 LONG BEACH ROAD A/K/A 382 NORTH LONG BEACH AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY Approximate amount of lien $548,428.76 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 604092/2019. MARK RICCIARDI, ESQ., Referee DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 137577

LEGAL NOTICE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC

HEARING - March 16, 2023

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing with the Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 6:00P.M. in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York on the appeals and applications of cases as they appear on the calendar; residential applications that do not extend their prior nonconforming status may be called first; public comment invited. It is anticipated that the Board will adjourn the legislative session and enter into Executive Session until 6:30P.M. INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions.

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

Application #2023-1 - 74 Broadway, Business BSection 55/Block 234/Lot 48 - El Balcon Properties Corp. - New 4 story, 2,334 sq. ft. apartment building with three (3) two-bedroom units and six (6) one-bedroom units with parking under building (at grade).

Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6(A), §210-80(A)- Permitted uses, §210-47(A)Building height, §210-48Lot area: apartments, §210-49(C) & (D)- Lot coverage; open space, §210-51(A) & (B)Required yards, §210-54Front yards of apartment buildings.

Application #2023-2307 Guy Lombardo Ave., Business B - Section 62/Block 080/Lot 6 - Jude Derivois - Use building for church assembly.

Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6(A), §210-172(3)- Required parking spaces.

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 137890

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE

FREEPORT HOUSING AUTHORITY

CFP 2023 and Five-Year Plan

the housing authority starting on March 9, 2023. A public hearing to discuss these two documents will be held at the Freeport Housing Authority’s office located at 240 S. Main Street, Freeport, NY on April 27, 2023 at 12:30PM.

137892

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

INDEX NO. 609351/2019

stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

The Freeport Housing Authority will hold a Public Meeting on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at 5:00 PM. The meeting will be held at 100 North Main Street Community Center, Freeport, NY 11520 137891

The Freeport Housing Authority has developed its Five-year plan (2023-2027) and CFP Plan for FY2023 in compliance with the Capital Fund Program requirements with the Capital Fund Processing Guidance for FY 2023 Grants Award. These documents will be available for review at the administrative office of

BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property vs. JUNE NOLAN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; DONALD COMBS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; LORETTA MYERS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; DIANA FLYNN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; CINDY BERGHOFF, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; WENDY CALE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; BRIAN COMBS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. COMBS any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as

Mortgaged Premises: 234 RUTLAND ROAD FREEPORT, NY 11520

District: Section: 55 Block: 382 Lot: 1366, 1367

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $544,185.00 and interest, recorded on May 15, 2008, at Liber M 32978 Page 30, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York, covering premises known as 234 RUTLAND ROAD FREEPORT, NY 11520. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a

Hallam seeks volunteers for ‘Move the Food Day’

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

March 25 is Move the Food Day, when the Hallams and other volunteers will load the food boxes into a truck donated by Nassau Door and Window for the short trip east.

“Around 60 people will line up, starting in my living room, down the front steps, and all the way out to the truck,” Hallam said, “and start a human conveyor belt of boxes to load the truck.”

When they arrive at the pantry, he

added, they will reassemble and do the process in reverse, conveying the boxes from truck to pantry. Last year, he said, some 200 volunteers helped out.

Hallam said he would be collecting food and monetary donations up until Move the Food Day. To donate, to volunteer for the move or to learn more about the People’s Food Drive, go to Facebook. com/ThePeoplesFoodDrive or tinyurl. com/2023PeoplesFoodDrive, or contact Hallam at (516) 315-3036.

Public Notices

copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: February 21, 2023

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff CHRISTINA BRUDERMAN, ESQ. 900 Merchants

Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590

516-280-7675

137882

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York Section 62 Block 48 Lot 1

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $505,778,66 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 6561-14

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction.

Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 2/10/23 File Number: 17-301715 LD 137884

purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, including any right, title or interest in and to the real property described in the complaint herein, all of who and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; PROPEL FINANCIAL 1, LLC; FERNANDO CUNHAo, 341 EAST LLC; JUMBO INVESTMENTS; NASSAU TL PROPERTIES CORP.; FLUSHING SAVINGS BANK, FSB, SUCCESSOR TO ATLANTIC SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION; SECURITY PACIFIC REALTY CORP.; ASSOCIATES FINANCIAL SERVICES CO. INC.; NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.,

default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the subject property.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon.

David P. Sullivan, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered Feb. 23, 2023 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office.

THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a tax lien and to recover the amount of the tax lien and all of the interest, penalties, additions and expenses thereon to premises k/a Section 55, Block 383, Lots 293-294.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB

Plaintiff, Against ALCIDES CURTIS, ET AL.

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/8/2016, 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. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 4/11/2023 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 28 Archer Street, Freeport, NY 11520 and described as follows:

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU INDEX NO.: 605901/2022

DATE FILED: 5/5/2022

SUMMONS L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Plaintiff, -againstJOSEPH W. CARTER, II, TAMARA CARTER A/K/A TAMERA CARTER and JOSEPH WILLIAM CARTER, if they be living, if they be dead, their respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, or through JOSEPH W. CARTER, II, TAMARA CARTER A/K/A TAMERA CARTER and JOSEPH

WILLIAM CARTER, if they be dead, whether by

“JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE 12”, the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action, to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with the summons, to serve notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the date of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York), and in case of failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the tax lien holder who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the tax lien holder will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (TAX LIEN HOLDER) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

ROBERT HALLAM, CENTER, is organizing the 12th annual People’s Food Drive with the Long Island Council of Churches Food Pantry, to help needy South Shore families fight hunger. With him were his wife, Mary, and their son, Robert Hallam Jr.

Photos courtesy Robert Hallam

ROBERT HALLAM HAS been collecting donated food in the living and dining rooms of his Lynbrook home, where it is divided into boxes that will be moved to the Long Island Council of Churches Food Pantry in Freeport later this month.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING, AR/AP

Do you have accounting, bookkeeping, or AR/AP experience? Are you tired of being retired, or need a few days a week to keep your mind occupied? If so, please send us a quick email and we will call you to discuss more details. We are a Customs Broker looking for someone who can support our everyday accounting needs and who doesn’t necessarily need or want to work every day. We look forward to talking with you!!! Email: Jobs@agraservices.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FT: RVC. Administrative Work, Answering Phones, Computer Skills – Microsoft, Excel, Outlook, Financial background helpful. No Health Beneifts. 516-763-9700 frances.difede@lpl.com

AUTO TECHNICIAN FT

Experienced And Reliable. NYSI A Plus. Busy Merrick Shop. Call 516-781-5641

AUTO TECHNICIAN WANTED

Gregoris Subaru, Valley Stream Experience Needed, Own Tools NYSI License Necessary

All Skill Levels Welcome Salary Commensurate With Exp. Health Benefits, Union Call Steve H 516-872-9755 Ext.1 Email Steveh@gregorismotors.com

BOOKKEEPER P/T EXPERIENCED

5-10 Hours Per Week. Handle Real Estate Property Management, Personal Finances. Computer Skills Necessary. Can Work From Home Or Office. Lawrence. Call 516-375-9642

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

Clinical Research Specialist sought by Mindful Care Ltd dba Mindful Urgent Care for West Hempstead, NY to manage & oversee the dvlpmt, implmtn & evaluation of a sleep study. Must have a Bach Deg in Biology, Health Sciences or Medical Technology + 1 yr exp in Clinical Research + special skills: RedCap, SPSS, CITI certification. Resumes to: Tamir Aldad, 510 Hempstead Turnpike, #203, West Hempstead, NY 11552. No calls.

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS

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Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years

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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.

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

INVESTIGATOR

Skip Tracer, Asset Locator. 3Yrs. Experience. Bi-lingual A Plus. Work From Home. mgal2@verizon.net 516-868-9888

MOTOR VEHICLE CLERK FT

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MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales

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OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print

HomesHERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Lido Beach

New Construction

The architect planned one thing, and the plumber did another

Q. My basement is being finished, and we’re adding a bathroom with a shower. Our plumber just left, and I’m bewildered by the way things are going. The plumber says we passed the inspection, but we’re concerned that he persuaded us to move the door, and all of the fixtures are different than the plans show. Our architect lined up the toilet, the sink and the shower in a row so we could use just one “plumbing wall” for all the pipes, but the plumber moved the shower to a different wall, which left nothing but empty space in the corner beside the toilet. Then the plumber ran flexible hot and cold tubing along the ceiling, so now we have to add a drop-down ceiling around the pipes. Is this acceptable and normal to do, and why did the work pass inspection if it didn’t follow our plans? We spent a lot of time discussing and planning where everything would go with our architect, and now we wonder who’s in charge if it passes inspection.

Stunning brand-new Colonial. This grand home features a large living room, granite kitchen and baths, den with fireplace, sliding doors to a huge deck, 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, master suite with a double shower

tub along with large closets. There are hardwood floors throughout, central air,

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Office: (516) 889-6677

Email: jamram123@aol.com

Topper Realty 84 East Park Avenue Long Beach, NY 11561

A. You ultimately have the last word on what you accept. I always tell clients that we play by the Golden Rule in construction. The Golden Rule used to mean, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It now means that he (or she) who has the gold rules.

OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 3/12/23 HEWLETT

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Ask

As long as you haven’t paid yet, you still have some authority. Once you pay, the issue becomes unclear, since paying is a demonstration of satisfaction, and it’s hard to show you were dissatisfied when someone else, like a judge, has to determine if you really just changed your mind but were once satisfied. Situations like yours prompted me to put a clause in my agreements that often seems questionable to prospective customers. I write that I am not responsible for deviations from the plans by the contractor, subcontractor, plumber, electrician or any other party hired by the owner, of it they cut through building components and cause damage.

Many people are naïve to the fact that the workers you hire often deviate from the plans. The building owner really believes that people follow the plans. Sadly, the plans prepared by a design professional, architect or engineer are carefully scrutinized by building officials before a permit is granted, only to be ignored when the plans are then not followed and the inspection in the field passes.

Most of the officials I speak to would never consciously let that happen, but at least three or four times a week, work passes an inspection when the plans don’t match. What should happen is that the owner should be communicated with about any change, and instead of fearing extra cost to get the architect or engineer involved, should pick up the phone, text or email to get the issue resolved quickly. You need to speak up, immediately, to take care of this before moving on. Good luck!

© 2022 Monte Leeper

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

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Results t hat Move You

1202330

HELPING YOU ON YOUR REAL ESTATE JOURNEY

Rob Kolb

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Tripodi

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate

RETIRED NYC EMS fire lieutenant selling quarter to half acre lots in Palm Coast Florida. We pay closing costs. We have a travel program to buy call 1-386-437-7058

Open Houses

HEWLETT BA, 257 WILLARD Dr REDUCED!! Spacious 5 BR, 3 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

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, 1608 Ridgeway Dr, Drastic Reduction! 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...$1,469,000 RENTAL

$6500 PER MONTH Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

House For Sale

POINT LOOKOUT: WATERFRONT-

LARGEST Selection of Beach Homes, Sale/ Rent. Our Home Listings Sell FA$T! VIDEOS. HUG R.E. 516-431-8000 www.hugrealestate.com

Apartments For Rent

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Vacation Rentals/Prop

Apartments For Rent

EAST ELMONT: 1 BR Cottage, New Carpets/ Flooring. No Smoking/ Pets. $1400 Plus Utilities. 516-437-7608

WEST HEMPSTEAD: SPACIOUS Lower Level, All Included, Separate Entrance, Backyard, EIK, Fbth, Near All/ LIRR. $2100. 917-640-3028

Out Of Town/Real Estate

NINEVEH NY: 25 Acres With Cabin And Bluestone Quarry. Hunting, Farming, Mining. Below Market. Must Sell. $75,000. Ben 347-866-5619, 718-266-9700

MoneyTo Lend

ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

Cemetery Plots

CEMETERY PLOT FOR TWO For Sale: Pinelawn Cemetery. Garden Of Normandy North. Price Negotiable. 516-375-1905

This Robin won’t rest until you are in your new NEST!

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room and home office.

Taxes: $11,716

Bellmore $700,000

Farmers Avenue. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Updated eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops and deck off kitchen. Open layout. Fireplace and cathedral ceiling. Updates include 2-zone heat and central air conditioning. Master bedroom with vaulted ceiling and skylight.

Taxes: $13,448.12

Cedarhurst $1,200,000

West Broadway. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Kosher eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and highend stainless steel appliances, including 2 ranges and 2 dishwashers, and island. Living room with custom built-ins. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Large rooms. Parklike backyard. Central air conditioning.

Taxes: $8,372

East Meadow $700,000

Francis Drive. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. New eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and porcelain flooring. Formal dining room. First floor master bedroom. Updates include windows and ductless air conditioning system.

Taxes: $11,754.12

East Rockaway $710,000

Alden Road. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. First floor bedroom. Security system.

Taxes: $17,764.30

Freeport $760,000

Maryland Avenue. Expanded Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor master bedroom suite. Convenient location in heart of Sterns Park.

Taxes: $16,524.30

Long Beach $600,000

Lincoln Boulevard. Ranch. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Updated open-concept eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Den/family room. Many extras, including high hats, crown molding and closet systems. Large rooms. Central air conditioning.

Taxes: $10,661.35

Oceanside $590,000 Bayfield Boulevard. Split Level. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor master bedroom.

Taxes: $17,839.21

Valley Stream $651,000

Todd Road. Expanded Cape. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances and walk-out to Trex deck. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Large rooms. Professional landscaping.

Taxes: $11,872.36

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements

THE LONG BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY 226 West Penn St, Long Beach Invites You To Shop Our Antique, Vintage & Treasures Sale Sat., March 18th, Sun., March 19th. 11am-5pm. Exciting Finds Throughout The Museum. For More Information: 516-432-1192.

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100

BATHROBE: UNISEX 100% Turkish Cotton, Garden City Hotel Embroidery, One Size. Tags On, $90. 516-320-1906

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Finds Under $100

FIREWOOD SEASONED MAPLE Cut Logs $40 S. Freeport 516 279 7696

FREE PIANO! IN good condition. You just have to transport. Call 516-596-1078

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VINTAGE SUNBEAM MIXMASTER Electric Mixer w/bowls, working, excellent, clean, $55. 516-798-2098.

SERVICES

Cleaning Services

MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

Decks

DECKS DECKS Our Only Business

516-729-5859

Electricians

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Handyman

HANDYMAN

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Education

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Autos For Sale

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The shell game we like to call graduation rates

The good news for the New York State Education Department, and the sobering news for the rest of us, is that state taxpayers remain mostly blinded by educational obfuscations like the high school graduation rate.

The SED released 2022 graduation rates last month, and the percentage of students who collected diplomas on Long Island crept up slightly last year, to 92.6 percent.

Long Island has a higher graduation rate than almost any other region in America.

If we were a state, we would have the highest graduation rate in the nation.

“Wow!” you say.

“Long Island schools are second to none!”

Hold on to your mortarboard.

If the graduation rate helps rank schools and compare graduating classes, why complain? It’s an easy way to see if your high school did better or worse than last year. It also tells you how your school compares with others.

It’s also a remarkably misleading statistic that is sometimes abused for lessthan-ethical purposes.

On the surface, graduation rate is simple, determined by dividing the number of students who graduate by the total number of eligible students. But there are all sorts of inside-baseball statistics — such as cohort graduation vs. on-time graduation — that the Education Department, and superintendents around the state, jumble, mix and match in an effort to figure out how to get more diplomas in the hands of teens.

The statistics themselves aren’t insidious. Numbers are simply tools. It’s the use of the graduation rate to determine school rankings and state funding that makes it so odious. Even worse is what some educators will do to boost the rate.

Ask a high school teacher how many times he or she has been queried by an administrator:

“What does this kid need to graduate?”

“Can we give her extra credit?”

“How many points does he need?”

“He’s worked so hard all year — surely there must be something that can be done.”

It’s a confidence game. Nudge the numbers, appeal to a teacher’s good intentions, and the graduation rate ticks upward. Floor grades are a neat trick. The

intent of a floor grade — a number that can’t dip below 55 or 45, depending on attendance — is to give students a fighting chance to pass a class.

Consider this scenario without a floor grade: A student fails the first two quarters of a class with abysmal grades of 12 and 15 — more common than you might think — so it becomes statistically impossible to pass for the year. The student realizes this, completely gives up, and becomes a discipline problem.

Giving the student a floor grade means that he or she only has to get a grade of 75 for each of the last two quarters to pass the class. The student sees light at the end of the tunnel, and becomes a model learner.

Alas, crafty students immediately figure out the floor-grade scam. Some students take it as a fall-quarter extension of summer break — while other students bemoan the benefit given to slackers. Floor grades reward laziness and diminish the quality of education needed to graduate.

Floor grades aren’t universally used or required, and there are no state or nationwide regulations. Some schools implement them at the end of the marking peri-

od. A grade of 32 miraculously jumps to 55. Other schools prohibit teachers from uploading any grade below 55 for any assignment. A student who does not a jot of work all of September still gets a 55.

See you on the podium in June, Jimmy!

Then there are credit-recovery programs — kids on Chromebooks after school for a few weeks, punching keys to earn class credits — and summer school. Ask a high school administrator what their summer school pass-fail rate is. Derelict students somehow evolve into scholars in the span of six weeks.

Obviously, not every student slacks, not every teacher fudges and not every administrator nudges. But let’s be honest about loopholes.

Graduation rate can’t measure rigor. Parents largely want their children’s diplomas to mean something more than a number. Graduation rate doesn’t emphasize philosophy, critical thinking or scientific theory.

So, by all means, toast the graduates this spring with a glass of sparkling cider — and a shot of reality. Not all diplomas are equal, and that graduation rate may be hiding some of your high school’s flaws.

Mark Nolan, the editor of the Lynbrook/ East Rockaway and Malverne/West Hempstead Heralds, taught high school English for 11 years.

Writers will tell the story of our times

In honor of National Reading Day on March 2, I reread Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.” Setting: America, in its earliest days. The settlers of Salem, in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, were religious and community-minded, good people who cared for their children and worked desperately to survive in a forbidding environment.

In 1692, these righteous citizens accused, tried and hanged 14 women, five men and two dogs for practicing witchcraft.

offered accounts of teenage girls dancing naked in the woods and reports of broomsticks found high in the trees. Daughters accused mothers and husbands accused wives. Once accused, you either confessed and implicated others, or you were hanged anyway for not telling the truth.

What finally shined a light on that dark summer of 1692, what pried the truth out of the cold foundations of old Salem, was “The Crucible,” Miller’s play, which he wrote more than 250 years after the fact.

RANDI KREISS

Some time ago, I also read Stacy Schiff’s “The Witches: Salem, 1692,” a nonfiction history of the time. It has been noted that no historian has ever fully explained what fever possessed the people of Salem. Even Schiff’s remarkable history does not answer the question of how the community’s paranoia achieved the critical mass that led to hangings.

You know where I’m going with this. We live now in a time of similar groupthink and communal delusion. (They nearly hanged Mike Pence!)

In Massachusetts Bay, “eyewitnesses”

In writing a work of fiction, Miller revealed the true hearts and minds of the accusers, victims and bystanders. He knew them because he knew human nature, and because he was living through a time of another witch hunt: the great Red Scare of the early 1950s.

Miller was one of the artists accused of ties with communism, and in an essay, “Why I wrote ‘The Crucible,’” he wrote, “The play was an act of desperation.” The accusations of Sen. Joseph McCarthy’s House Un-American Activities Committee, Miller wrote, had “paralyzed a whole generation and in a short time dried up the habits of trust and toleration in public discourse.”

He wrote, “In 1948-51, I had the sensation of being trapped inside a perverse work of art … in which it is impossible to make out whether a stairway is going up or down. Practically everyone I knew stood within the conventions of the political left of centre; one or two were Communist party members … I have never been able to believe in the reality of these people being actual or putative traitors any more than I could be, yet others like them were being fired from teaching or jobs in government or large corporations … The surreality of it all never left me … In today’s terms, the country had been delivered into the hands of the radical right … It is always with us, this anxiety, sometimes directed towards foreigners, Jews, Catholics, fluoridated water, aliens in space, masturbation, homosexuality, or the Internal Revenue Department … And if this seems crazy now, it seemed just as crazy then, but openly doubting it could cost you.”

Miller’s play became a metaphor, even a cliché of that era, when friends betrayed friends and people lost jobs and secret accusations could lead to public humiliation and worse. Miller said that he wrote “The Crucible” because it was what a

writer would do to get to the underlying truth of a moment in history. In writing about 1692, he was also writing about 1952.

And now, when we read his play, we are also reading about our time. Once again, America has lost its moorings, and no one can adequately explain or understand 2023, because we are treading water in the midst of it.

We won’t have a bead on our own time until the novelists and playwrights create the fictional works that reveal us to ourselves.

Read “The Crucible” again. It speaks to the currents of evil that can sweep away an entire community: irrational fear of “the other,” jealousy, fundamentalist religion, isolation, political manipulation. Miller was writing about Salem and the Red Scare, but he might as well have been writing about Stalin’s Russia or Pinochet’s Chile, Mao’s China or the Khmer Rouge. Or he might have been writing about America today, about QAnon or DeSantis or Trump or Marjorie Taylor Greene, about book bans and racist attacks and antisemitic resurgences.

It is America in 2023. We have run off the rails, again. We need to wait for the novelists and playwrights to find the truth of this moment and bring it to us.

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

Arthur Miller’s 1953 play, ‘The Crucible,’ could have been written in 2023.

They’re misleading statistics that are sometimes unethically abused.

MARK NOLAN

HERALD

We must keep government transparent

The middle of March is something many of us look forward to, because it means spring is just around the corner. But this coming week, March 12-18, is known as Sunshine Week. Associations, institutions and organizations connected to journalism will celebrate the initiative to promote open government, which was launched in 2005 by the American Society of News Editors, now the News Leaders Association.

The week coincides with March 16, National Freedom of Information Day, which honors a bill signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966, allowing members of the public and journalists access to government information in the interest of keeping our leadership transparent.

States across the country have since enacted similar laws, but why is this important? Why should you care?

Because government information is taxpayer-supported, public information, and it belongs to you. Whether it’s a public school district, a village, a town, a county, the state, or the nation’s highest governing entities, everything said, spent or done there impacts you.

In the midst of the Cold War, with the United States and the Soviet Union locking political horns after World War II, the American government appeared to be suppressing information. That wasn’t going to work for John Moss, a newly elected Republican congressman from California. Moss campaigned for increased transparency, but was continuously rebuffed by a government he viewed as acting secretly. People were fired from their jobs and blacklisted for being com-

LETTERS

Peter King’s return to Washington

To the Editor:

Re Peter King’s column last week, “At the Capitol, it was almost as if I’d never left”: Mr. King’s “bittersweet” tour of his part-time “home” for 28 years is qualified by an expansive “almost.”

Since his departure in December 2020, we outsiders have seen members of Congress fleeing the Capitol, election-deniers elected, Marjorie Taylor Greene advocating secession and a national divorce, the meretricious McCarthy spectacle, the frantic shunning of George Santos and the Republican Party’s growing angst with its likely nominee. Mr. King apparently did not notice any of this. His visit was a lot like old times, we’re told.

Who knew this would be cause for nostalgia?

BRIAN KELLY

munists, many without a shred of real evidence.

Moss championed his caused by hosting hearings as chair of a House subcommittee on government information. Support was nonexistent from the majority GOP, but outside Congress, educators, journalists and scientists strongly supported Moss.

Not surrendering, Moss pushed his Freedom of Information Act for over 10 years until, finally, a fellow Republican, Donald Rumsfeld — then a young representative from Chicago — added his name. The act eventually passed in the House and the Senate, and then landed on the desk of Johnson, a Democrat who opposed some aspects of the bill, especially when it came to classified material. Still, LBJ signed the legislation into law on July 4, 1966, making the supposed greatest democracy on Earth the third country to create such a law.

“I sign this measure with a deep sense of pride that the United States is an open society in which the people’s right to know is cherished and guarded,” Johnson said.

You might live in an incorporated village with a government that includes a board of trustees. You might attend a board meeting at which those trustees vote to spend money to improve a playground. You want to know exactly how that money — your village taxes — will be spent.

You might ask a trustee. Maybe he or she answers your question. Maybe they do not. You want to know more. That is when you can file a Freedom of Information request — the process created by the Free-

dom of Information Act — to obtain that information.

Is it that easy? Usually, yes. Occasionally, however, it becomes a tug-of-war between the government and the party who “FOILs” for the information.

This is what Sunshine Week is about, and why it matters. The information that a government entity possesses does not belong to elected or appointed officials. It belongs to the people they represent.

You.

To promote the message of Sunshine Week, you can write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper — like this one — or help spread the message through social media.

Elected officials, doing their part, could review current public-access laws, introduce legislation to strengthen accessibility to public information, and encourage the training of government employees to help ensure compliance with existing open-record laws.

Grass-roots community organization might organize local forums, sponsor essay contests, or push elected representatives to spotlight the importance of open access to government information.

Teachers can use Sunshine Week to educate students on how government transparency improves their lives and creates stronger communities.

Government transparency was on the mind of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis when he told Harper’s Weekly in 1913 that “sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.” Increased openness should be the standard that all government entities strive for. It makes for good governance, and a strong and civil society.

Creating a portrait of a Freeport graduate

Freeport Public Schools is proud to provide our students with the best educational and extracurricular opportunities for them to thrive and reach their fullest potential. Continuing and expanding our laser focus on educating the whole child, we have recently begun the Portrait of a Freeport Graduate process, in partnership with Molloy University.

Portrait of a Graduate is a framework that is being implemented in school districts nationwide. It is a set of competencies that students should possess by the time they graduate from high school, which go beyond the traditional academic skills of reading, writing and mathematics. Instead, they focus on developing the whole person.

In this rapidly changing world, the skills required for success in the workforce are evolving. We must develop the 21st century skills and attributes that will prepare students for success in the future. Some of the competencies included in

Portrait of a Graduate are collaboration, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving, all of which are essential for success in virtually every career, and life.

The program provides a clear roadmap for educators, students and families. Creating a Portrait of a Graduate helps schools and educators focus on the skills and knowledge that are most important for students to develop. By having a clear vision of what they should be able to accomplish when they graduate, educators can tailor their instruction and students’ learning experiences to better prepare them. The focus is on what students should be able to do rather than only what they should know. This helps to ensure that they are prepared for the real world and have the skills they need to succeed in college, career and life.

The new initiative will help prepare students for the challenges of the future.

they may face. Creating a Portrait of a Graduate is a collaborative effort among educators, students, parents and community members. It is a shared vision that everyone can work toward achieving. The collaboration helps to ensure that everyone is invested in students’ success, and that everyone is working toward the same goals.

Portrait of a Graduate prepares students for the challenges of the future, including careers that do not even exist yet. The competencies identified are designed to be transferable across a wide range of contexts, so students will be prepared to adapt to whatever challenges

LETTERS

OK, Santos lied. So does everybody in D.C.

To the Editor:

I took offense to Rick Herman’s letter, “Randi takes on George Santos” (Feb. 23-March 1), asserting that 99.9 percent of the “cuckoos” are Republicans — and I guess he forgot to mention that we’re all deplorable and racist.

I feel sorry for Mr. Herman’s grandson, who will be influenced by a grandfather who believes that his views are the only ones that matter, and that someone who has a different opinion needs to be silenced and disparaged.

I’m not defending Santos, but politicians, the media, government agencies and the pharmaceutical companies lie to us on a daily basis, so why would Santos think it was a problem to “enhance” his resume? Thankfully, in his case no one died as a result of his lies. We can’t say that for some other people in Washington.

For weeks there have been articles in the Herald about Santos. Move on, already. There are a lot more important issues going on in this country (and throughout the world) than Santos lying on his resume. Next election, vote him out.

If you want to start kicking politicians out of office for lying, you might as well start closing the buildings in D.C.

There probably will only be a handful of honest ones left.

BARBARA HALL

Formerly of Glen Cove

Lessons learned from a three-week campaign

To the Editor:

My three-week campaign as the Democratic candidate in the special election in the Nassau County Legislature’s 19th District was an incredible, eye-opening experience.

As a municipal attorney tasked with appearing in front of the Legislature, interfacing with taxpayers and drafting policies and laws that impact the daily lives of county residents, I believed my experience would translate seamlessly to my campaign, but knowing the issues and succinctly describing your policy ideas to voters are two very different skill sets. I learned quickly that being able to explain the issues and your policies in a relatable way was just as important as knowing the subject matter.

What was even more valuable was listening to the voters and having a substantive dialogue with them. And not just one time, but consistently — knocking on door after door, making call after call, and Zoom meeting after Zoom meeting — because voters aren’t willing to

Freeport’s Portrait of a Graduate will be based on the input of our students, staff, families and community. On Feb. 13, we began that work at a virtual meeting where we introduced the project, engaged in meaningful dialogue and launched ThoughtExchange, a unique two-way process in which participants collaborate and share ideas confidentially and thoughtfully. ThoughtExchange is a digital platform that may be accessed from any device. If you were unable to join us at the initial meeting, you still have an opportunity to be a part of this process, because ThoughtExchange is still open for responses.

Freeport’s Portrait of a Graduate will be a powerful tool to prepare students for the challenges of the future, and will not

be a static document. It will be a North Star that will guide our strategic plan in years to come. It is a living document that can be revised and updated over time. This will allow us to continuously improve and adapt to changing circumstances and student needs. It will be our shared vision of what Freeport school students should be able to do when they graduate, and will ensure that they are all being prepared for success afterward by being able to adapt to whatever challenges they may face in their personal and professional lives.

I encourage everyone to get involved in this exciting, important, collaborative process. Input from all stakeholders is critical, and we hope that you will take the time to participate. ThoughtExchange will remain open until March 17. There will be stakeholder events in the coming months, when we will share results from ThoughtExchange and offer opportunities for continued collaboration. The process will culminate in the final visualization of the skills and competencies our graduates will need to succeed.

For more information, go to the district’s website, freeportschools.org, or visit the district on social media.

Dr. Kishore Kuncham is superintendent of Freeport Public Schools.

FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker

give their trust away. And how can you blame them (or us), after seeing scandals, corruption and extremism take hold of the daily political discourse?

We can gain back the trust of our constituents to attack the issues of the day, such as tax reform, affordability, the opioid epidemic, gun violence and climate change in a few ways. Listen. Have a dia-

logue. And don’t just say what you’re going to do — do it.

ROB MILES Merrick

Everton Bailey leads the Instrumental Sounds of Praise Youth Ensemble — Hempstead

Miles, the Legislature’s minority caucus counsel, lost the special election in the 19th District on Feb. 28 to Republican Michael Giangregorio.

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