Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald 05-30-2024

Celebrating Patriots’ Weekend

Community members watched fireworks last Sunday night at Greis Park, at Lynbrook’s Patriots’ Weekend event. More photos, Page 3.

Centre Ave. Elementary School has a ‘generational impact’ on E. Rockaway

By BEN FIEBERT bfiebert@liherald.com

Centre Avenue Elementary School’s mantra of “better together” created long-lasting connections within the community, which span multiple generations.

The school, founded in 1924, before the invention of the film strip projector, celebrated its 100th birthday earlier this month.

Years later, students can watch educational films on projectors the size of their hand. Centre Avenue has gone through structural, educational, and program changes over the years, but one thing that has stayed the same is the supportive

energy that the school instilled in its students.

“The building is committed to the betterment of the students’ future,” Caila Kelly, 45, principal of Centre Avenue Elementary School, said. “And they know that when we have to have a conversation that may not be palatable for a lot of people, it comes from a place of supportive energy and that’s what I believe kept us a generational impact for so many years.”

Kelly, who was sworn in as principal four years ago, noted that it’s the principals before her and after her that keep Centre Avenue a “special place.” She said that the close-knit culture created where the students, faculty, nurses,

School district financial team is honored

By BEN FIEBERT bfiebert@liherald.com

Lynbrook Public Schools were awarded the International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

TThe Association of School Business Officials International presented the first award, and the Government Finance Officers Association gave the second award. The GFOA award is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. ASBO International’s award recognizes districts that have met the program’s high standards for financial reporting and transparency.

recent awards that the district received were based on the 2022 to 2023 school year.

he award is based off of the 2022 to 2023 school year.

JoEl PRESS Assistant superintendent for finance, operations and information systems

Joel Press, assistant superintendent for finance, operations, and information systems, acknowledged the finance team that contributed to the district receiving these accolades including Emilia Pinello, payroll supervisor; Patricia Jung, senior accountant clerk; Linda Gillespie, treasurer; Sylvia Byrne, junior accountant clerk; Janine Koicim, principal typist clerk; and Paula Jaegers, senior accountant clerk.

“I’m new here and the award is based off of the 2022 to 2023 school year, which I was not here for,” Press said. “(The finance team) were here for it and they did, and continue to do, all of the work.”

The district received the GFOA award for 11 consecutive years and the ASBO award for nine consecutive years. The

Press explained that every year, external auditors look over a sample of the district’s financial activity. After they review the schools’ finances, they issue their findings. In

Continued on page 7

Joanna Bishop/Herald

East Rockaway pays tribute to military personnel

Neighbors gathered at East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School on Monday to recognize the service men and women that have died for the country. Due to poor weather, the East Rockaway Memorial Day parade was cancelled. However, the village hosted a ceremony at the high school with dozen in attendance.

— Ben Fiebert

Long Island’s most anticipated new oceanfront community is now open. At The Breeze, each rental unit opens you to a world of uncompromising luxury amenities and an active, adventurous lifestyle.

The East Rockaway Village Board and veterans hosted the annual Memorial Day ceremony on Monday morning.

Jonathan Moya, sophomore, playing TAPS at the ceremony.

Pastor Joseph Esposito from Church of Nazarene speaking to the crowd.

James DeTommaso, left and East Rockaway superintendent, with Boy Scout Joseph Petraro.

Skye Margies/Herald photos

Edward Casazza, retired US army colonel, and his family joined for the service.

Patriot’s Weekend ends with annual parade

Lynbrook hosted Patriot’s Weekend last weekend, as neighbors paid tribute to the service men and women who died in the line of duty.

The weekend started at Greis Park on Sunday 6 p.m. with an opening ceremony, followed by the Elite Team dance performance at 6:30 p.m. and then a magic show for kids at the gazebo at 7 p.m. Then, there was a fireworks show at 8:45 p.m. At 9:45 a.m. on Monday, dozens of community members were in attendance at the Memorial Day parade.

— Ben Fiebert

Joanna Bishop/Herald Photos

Neighbors watch as Lynbrook fire trucks come down Atlantic Avenue during the Memorial Day parade.

Emma Rodriguez wearing red and blue, as she enjoys Patriot’s Weekend at Greis Park.

The American Legion walking in the Memorial Day parade on Monday.

Maya Seid and Ethan Li watching the parade go down the street.

The Lynbrook/East Rockaway Little League marching in the parade.

An American flag being carried down Atlantic Avenue, as servicemen pay tribute to those that have died, fighting for freedom.

Worker rescued by Lynbrook firefighters early last week

Lynbrook firefighters responded to a reported worker trapped four stories up on a forklift bucket that was touching a power line on May 20.

The incident occurred at the new six-story apartment building being built on Broadway and Langdon Place shortly after 4 p.m. When the bucket accidentally touched the overhead power line running down Broadway, the electricity, with a loud bang, ran down the forklift’s arm to the ground, burning the forklift’s tires and the cloth fencing around the construction site. The worker in the bucket was not hurt, but he was stranded.

firefighters helped rescue a worker stranded at a work site on Broadway and Langdon Place on May 20.

After testing the grounding of the bucket, he helped bring the worker down to the ground.

PSEG was on scene and had the power turned off in the overhead wires, however, they also informed Clayton Murphy, first assistant fire chief, that although the power was off, they could not guarantee that the power would not “re-energize at any time.”

Truck Company’s ladder 428 was raised up to the vicinity of the forklift bucket. Lynbrook firefighter and Ex-Captain Brian Brown climbed the ladder.

Book Review:

Subtitled “The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen,” author Brooks explores the art of human connection. To connect with others, to make them feel seen, heard and understood, and to be understood ourselves, is a learnable skill.

Of a pastor friend named Jimmy he says, “when Jimmy sees a person, any person…he also sees a soul of infinite value and dignity… as a result, Jimmy is going to greet people with respect and reverence…if you see people as precious souls, you’ll probably wind up treating them well”.

Exploring the concept of “accompaniment” your interactions with others should be marked by willingness, not willfulness, allowing the other person to be perfectly themselves. There is a realization that everyone is in their own spot, on their own pilgrimage and your job is to meet them where they are, helping them chart their course. “Sometimes we need to hitch a ride on someone else’s journey, and accompany them, part of the way”.

The worker was not injured, but was transported by Northwell Health to South Nassau hospital for evaluation.

Lynbrook police were forced to close Broadway and Langdon Place for about an hour. Lynbrook Fire Department’s video of the rescue can be seen on LynbrookFD.org under “Press Room” as well as on LynbrookTV channel 20/33, and on RumbleTV under the Lynbrook Fire Department.

— Contributed by Steve Grogan

Citing Aldous Huxley, Brooks observes “Experience is not what happens to you, it is what you do with what happens to you.” Or, as the writer Anais Nin put it, “We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are.”

In trying to understand others, it is helpful to ask “how are they perceiving the situation? How are they experiencing this moment and constituting their reality.” People who are lonely, who feel unseen, become bitter and mean. Hostility and callousness are rising along with our social isolation. Surveys show to 60 – 70 percent of people put themselves on the negative emotion side of the meter –empathy and compassion are needed when many people you meet are suffering within.

“Human beings, John Stuart Mill writes, are under a moral obligation to seek the improvement of our moral character.” Will we be generous and considerate or judgmental and cruel? To become a social, humble, understanding and warm person, David Brooks’ new book illuminates the way.

Poppy handout remembers the fallen for Memorial Day

In memory of fallen soldiers in past wars and in honor of Memorial Day, Lynbrook American Legion Post 335 gave out red poppy flowers at the Lynbrook train station last week.

After World War 1, the red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed during battle, following the publication of the then wartime poem “In Flanders Fields.” On September 27, 1920, the poppy became the official flower of the

American Legion family to memorialize the soldiers who fought and died during the war. In 1924, the distribution of poppies became a national program of the American Legion.

Lynbrook’s American Legion Post 335 is grateful for all the commuters who made a donation upon acceptance of the poppy, which will be used to help veterans in need.

— Contributed by Steve Grogan

Courtesy Steve Grogan

Lynbrook

Courtesy Steve Grogan

Jose Cortez, left, and Kenny Weir handing out poppies at the Lynbrook train station in memory of fallen soldiers.

birthday on may 18.

The close community led to the school’s longevity

custodians, and “every single person that walks the hallway” is what contributed to the school’s longevity.

Kelly said she seen the academic success increase in the school over the years, which was reflected by the stat test score. In February, Centre Avenue was awarded the level 2 Thinking Map — shared visual language for learning — accreditation. Centre Avenue is one of the few schools on Long Island to gain this status.

“This accreditation comes with a lot of work with student thinking, student facing work, parent facing work, and using that to prepare the students for high school,” Kelly said.

Project-based learning is another change that was infused into the school’s curriculum under the leadership of James DeTommaso, superintendent of East Rockaway School District. This has been a common theme in the school’s STEM program where they use a more hands-on approach to learning.

“The students used a magnet to determine the level of iron that was coming out of cereal,” Kelly said. “They’re living as scientists and mathematicians and working through that kind of mentality.”

Bill O’Hara, 80, was at Centre Avenue Elementary School in the 1950s. His daughters also attended the school, and he recalls programs that were not there when he was a student.

“My daughter Colleen was in the Enterprise Program in Centre Avenue for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade,” O’Hara said. “This was for accelerated students.”

O’Hara explained that although the school did not have this program in the 1950s, he made the most of it when his daughter was in it. He would go on class trips with this program to make sure that no students get separated from the class.

O’Hara’s family is one of the many examples of how the school had a generational impact on the community. Not only did his daughters go to Centre Avenue, but his granddaughter is also a student in the school. O’Hara picks up his

grandchildren from school every afternoon, and he has noted the various structural changes that the school underwent over the past couple of decades.

“The whole wing on the east end of the school is new,” O’Hara said. “And they put a circular driveway in the front of the school.”

One piece of advice that, if given the opportunity, O’Hara would tell the students of Centre Avenue is to find a “manual trade.” He noted that plumbers are becoming obsolete and that most people do not even know how to use a screwdriver. O’Hara said he would like to see an increase in general handymen.

Sue Torborg, 70, also attended Centre Avenue. She was the only student in the school in kindergarten in 1959. However, her four children all attended the school, with her oldest starting in 1982 and the youngest graduating in 2001.

“The school has really changed,” Torborg said, comparing when his first kid attended the school to now. “It’s transitioned very nicely. There’s been a lot more classrooms that had to be created to accommodate more students.”

Torborg noted that she will never forget when she received her son’s report card and it said she should encourage him to learn his alphabet and numbers during the summer. Now, she explained, the students are entering kindergarten, already knowing how to write their names.

“Also, they added on a beautiful library and a computer and technology room, which was not there when my kids were there,” Torborg said.

“I’ve lived here all my life, my mother moved to East Rockaway in the 1930s so I think the longevity has to do a lot with the people that are here at the people that contribute to the community and the school system,” Torborg said.

Looking into the future, Kelly noted that the school will see more integration with A.I. and technology. She also said that the programs in the school will be geared more towards real world connections. She also envisions the school shifting to having more collaborative, student-centered classrooms.

Courtesy Caila Kelly

Centre avenue elementary School’s class of 1929, five years after the school opened in east rockaway. neighbors celebrated the school’s 100th

East Rockaway reaches flag football finals

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Nassau County, with tremendous support from the New York Jets, has cracked the code for high school girls who want to play football.

For the East Rockaway flag football team, it has already found success just three short years into the program’s history. Coached by Fred Cange, the Rocks finished with a 9-3 record and made it all the way to the Nassau Conference II title game before falling to Plainedge, 19-7, on May 20 at Long Beach Middle School.

“It’s very satisfying to know that what we’re building here in this program is working,” Cange said when asked about the deep postseason run.

As for East Rockaway, its defense this season was outstanding. The unit only allowed 20-plus points in three of its 12 games.

Led by multiple contributors, the Rocks’ defense was a force to be reckoned with all season long. Nicole Zugnoni led the team in flag grabs (54), sacks (18), and deflections (14). Rachel Burch led in interceptions with eight while Emma Van Wickler was not far behind with seven. Stephanie Lynch and Isabella Alvarez each had over 40 flag grabs, while Sofia Ferkov and Dayanara Jose Merino each finished the season with five sacks.

Not only did the defense hold opponents to less than 20 points in three fourths of the games, but it also pitched a shutout in half of them. That includes consecutive shutout victories over Roslyn and Bethpage in the Conference II quarterfinal and semifinal

playoff games.

While the defense led the way in the school’s first trip to the county championship stage, the offense stepped up when it needed to. While Van Wickler picked off plenty of passes on defense, she was also East Rockaway’s starting quarterback, a position she had never played until this spring.

After the team lost its quarterback from last season, the captain stepped up and learned how to play the position.

“She was awesome,” Cange said. “Pretty impressive to learn a new position in January and then bring them to the Nassau County championship just four months later.”

The Rocks opened the playoffs May 14 with a 14-0 victory over Roslyn. Van Wickler connected with Zugnoni on a 19-yard touchdown pass in the first half and scored on a 4-yard run in the second half.

Two days later, Van Wickler had the only points — a 2-yard touchdown run — in a 6-0 win over Bethpage.

Other two way players, like Alvarez and Lynch, played huge parts in the rushing attack. Those two, along with Ava Caradonna, combined for 916 rushing yards. “Ava is just a freshman so she’s the future of this program,” Cange said. “And Isabella is just a great athlete with a natural feel for the game.”

The future is certainly bright for the program, especially with Cange at the helm.

The game as a whole has grown so much in Nassau County in just three years. “It’s something new the girls can do,” Cange said. “The opportunity for them to play football is spreading like wildfire.”

Perfection nets Lynbrook conference crown

By GARRETT D. URIBE sports@liherald.com

Lynbrook’s opponents at first might have noticed no difference – a familiar name at second singles presenting an impassable obstacle, going undefeated for the Owls’ boys’ tennis team in a seeming replay of last season.

Then it may have struck them. That couldn’t be Sean Raykis – 14-0 at No. 2 singles for Lynbrook last spring –because the senior this season joined junior Gabe Lewner forming the Owls’ unbeaten first doubles team.

Indeed, though the surname and insurmountable play were identical, it was eighth-grade phenom Liam Raykis stepping in to his elder sibling’s former spot to finish 14-0 in league play, as Lynbrook – led by All-County junior Cooper Schorr’s 13-1 showing this spring at first singles – took the Nassau Conference 2B crown at 14-0 in coach Shari Bowes’ second season.

Bowes, who oversaw Lynbrook’s turnaround finish as 2B’s runner up last year, said the middle-school prodigy’s presence this season was doubly crucial to her team’s title run – not only shoring up a singles roster that

also included unbeaten Owls junior Sean Hensley (14-0) at No. 3, but permitting older brother Sean’s critical move to doubles, thus giving Lynbrook a lights-out lineup in four events.

“Gaining Liam this year, we were able to secure first, second and third singles,” said Bowes, whose team fell to Manhasset May 21 in a Nassau Class B quarterfinal.

“And with everyone knowing he was Sean’s little brother, I think it pumped up the team. I think we built the ground last year, and this year we knew we had the ability to be the best in the conference.”

Schorr, seeded eighth at the Nassau County Individual Championships May 19, progressed to the tournament’s third round. Unbeaten in 2023 as a sophomore at first singles for Lynbrook, he held down the team’s top spot for a second season, using a blistering serve to blast his way to 13 wins.

“When Cooper has to turn it on, he turns it on. He gets really pumped and is just phenomenally athletic,” Bowes said of the three-sport athlete. “He’s been the glue of our team.”

As well as promoting cohesion, Schorr brought a bit of magnetism this season, drawing friend Emmet O’Grady

– a junior Owls wrestling and football team member who was new to tennis –to the team. O’Grady and freshman Jason Beard went 5-9 at second doubles for Lynbrook, as did the third and fourth doubles tandems of Charlie Horton and Jake Frankel, and Ethan Velasquez and Christopher Adonna, respectively.

“Every win we could get was important,” Bowes said. “Emmet came out of nowhere, asked by Cooper to come try out, and he never left the courts. He’s such a good athlete and he worked so hard and just became a tennis player who can now serve aces. It’s truly amazing.”

“This whole season was great,” Bowes added. “What we wanted to do was become conference champions, and we did that. We’re pretty young still, too. We have a bunch of years ahead of us. So we’re all just really excited.”

Junior Cooper Schorr went 13-1 at first singles and earned All-County honors while helping the Owls roll to the Conference 2B title.

Courtesy L.I. Tennis Magazine

Eric Dunetz/Herald

Emma Van Wickler starred in her first season at quarterback and had passing and rushing touchdowns in the Rocks’ semifinal playoff victory.

Lynbrook schools’ finance practices honored

this case, the auditors found no issues with the record and declared an “unmodified opinion.”

“When you have an unmodified opinion, that means that the auditors have not found any material issues with the audit and that’s the highest level opinion that you can get from an auditor,” Press said.

Press said that the auditors declaring an unmodified opinion is “not usual,” but he explained that when the finances are done diligently, like they are in Lynbrook, the auditors will not find anything.

The findings in this report gave the district a green light to apply for these awards. Along with an unmodified opinion, the district needed to be very transparent with their records to receive these accolades. The information submitted to these GFOA and ASBO included tax levy data and debt service over the last 10 years.

“And they also want to see that the information we’re providing is in compliance with the generally accepted accounting principals,” Press said.

The basis of these awards, Press explained, is providing a clean audit. He emphasized that the district wouldn’t have been able to provide this without the work of the finance team.

the Lynbrook school district’s finance team, from left, emilia pinello, payroll supervisor; patricia Jung, senior accountant clerk; Linda gillespie, treasurer; Sylvia Byrne, junior accountant clerk; Janine Koicim, principal typist clerk; paula Jaegers, senior accountant clerk, and Joel press, assistant superintendent for finance, operations, and information systems.

“A lot of our information in financial statements is related to accounting,” Press said. “And Sylvia does our accounting and makes sure that the books are —”

“Meticulous,” Sylvia continued.

Press said that all the people on the team are very meticulous and this is needed to receive an unmodified opin ion. He noted that the buck doesn’t stop at one person. Everyone on the team works together, going through multiple steps to review the finances and make sure that everything is accurate.

“We all work together,” Pinello said. “And we don’t do it for the accolades.” Press noted that he is grateful for the team, which has been able to bring financial transparency to the district for 10 to 20 years.

He plans to continue this trend in the upcoming school years.

Ben Fiebert/Herald

Retailers, electeds get together to talk retail crime

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

There’s shoplifting. And then there’s organized retail crime.

Both are bad, of course, but organized crime — where goods are stolen in a coordinated way before being resold elsewhere — is costing major retailers hundreds of billions of dollars each year.

And that’s why U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito and other elected leaders sat down with major retailers from places like Home Depot, Walmart and Walgreens at the David Mack Center for Training and Intelligence in Garden City last week to try and get a handle on it.

“I want to be clear to everyone that I am not talking about petty shoplifting,” D’Esposito said. “Not theft for need, but theft for greed. And in many cases, to fund ongoing criminal enterprise.”

Customers already feel the impact of such crime when they find even simple supplies like shampoos and deodorant behind locked cases on aisles. And it’s not a good feeling for customers or employees,

“This is premeditated,” said Joe Stein, the director of asset protection solutions at Walgreens. “This is calculated, and it is done on an international and global scale.”

“This is not someone who’s going in to steal for subsistence. This is their job that they’re doing.”

Having so much inventory stolen also has a more direct impact on shoppers — it raises prices.

“There’s definitely an impact that tran-

Yet, efforts have been made to reduce that influence. On Capitol Hill, that has come in the form of a bill D’Esposito has introduced, called the Supporting Law Enforcement Officers’ Ability to Combat Organized Retail Crime Act. It’s intended to tackle this kind of crime at the federal level by better training law enforcement officers, and direct the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to research and develop new technologies to better stop it.

And it can’t a moment too soon, according to Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, as organized retail crime grows into a real problem.

“This affects the retailers by making it more expensive for them to operate,” Blakeman said. “It puts their employees in harm’s way. It affects the consumers, because obviously that loss has to be passed on to someone, so it results in higher prices for goods.”

And then there is LEARN — the Law Enforcement and Retail Network, where law enforcement — like Nassau County Police Department commissioner Patrick Ryder and Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr. — and major retailers meet to discuss security and gather information on repeat offenders.

Getting a full handle on how much of an impact organized retail crime might have is tricky — primarily because there is no standard definition of the crime in use across the country. Retail theft in New York overall has jumped 54 percent in New York, according to the Council on Criminal Justice. But in other places, like San Francisco are experiencing declines in such theft.

“This is right versus wrong,” Blakeman said. “Our legislators should be on the side of right, and not on the side of wrong. And they need to change our laws to protect our whole community, and make sure that people understand that if you commit a crime, you should have consequences.”

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota, and major retailers gather to talk about organized retail crime — something that is much different from just plain shoplifting. And something D’Esposito says he’s doing something about.

Cocktails for a Cure event was a success

Assemblyman Brian Curran announced the success of his ‘Cocktails for a Cure’ event, which took place last month.

At the fun-filled event, members of the public drank cocktails that were made by local elected officials. All proceeds from the event went to the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition, a non-profit organization opened in 2017 whose mission is to provide support services and education to those in the community who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as the Hewlett House, an organization that provides services to cancer patients 24/7 free of charge. Elected officials who participated include Lynbrook

Mayor Alan Beach, Lynbrook Trustee Ann Marie Reardon, Nassau County Legislator Bill Gaylor, Hempstead Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Lynbrook Trustee Robert Boccio, Lynbrook Trustee Michael Habert, and Lynbrook

Deputy Mayor Michael Hawxhurst.

“I am so proud our ‘Cocktails for a Cure’ event was a resounding success,” Curran said. “Nassau County is full of kind, compassionate people and tonight was no different, I had a blast serving people from the community and getting to chat with them. I am also proud of the funds we raised, which will all go to the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition and the Hewlett House to help find a cure for

breast cancer. I also want to thank all the other elected officials who came out tonight to help make it a success, I cannot wait until next year’s event.”

“It was great to be amongst so many of the best people coming together for the very worthy cause of fighting breast cancer,” Gaylor said. With every event like this one, we are that much closer to finding a cure.”

“It was an honor to join Assemblyman Brian Curran and my fellow colleagues in government to raise funds for Hewlett House and the RVC Breast Cancer Coalition,” Ryder said.

“Hewlett House and RVC Breast Cancer Coalition compassionately offer support and education while giving hope to those facing cancer.”

“…event for a good cause, well attended by local elected officials and families and friends,” Curran said. “A great reason to go out and support Hewlett House and Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition.”

“Hewlett House is a free service to anyone who enters our doors, the event Brian Curran and other elected officials put together was fabulous, raising money to help our patients so they can continue to get many services that are offered at no charge. Our cancer community is so thankful,” Gerri Barish, president of the Hewlett House, said.

— Ben Fiebert

Courtesy Assemblyman Brian Curran

Local officials making cocktails at Cocktails for a Cure fundraiser last month.

Seniors take part in free retinopathy screenings

By BEN FIEBERT bfiebert@liherald.com

Seniors who have diabetes at Lynbrook Restorative Nursing and Therapy center received free eye checks last Thursday.

Usher Eisen, optometrist and CEO of Visualize Eye Care, provided the seniors with free retinopathy screenings. Retinopathy is an incurable eye condition that causes vision loss and blindness in people living with diabetes. The disease often goes undetected, so it is critical for people living with diabetes to receive annual screenings.

Brian Cordts, director of the center’s diabetes management and education program, said that this event was to make seniors with diabetes understand the importance of a healthy eye checkup routine. The screenings were noninvasive and didn’t require any eye drops. However, to make their eyes dilated, the seniors wore sunglasses for a few minutes and then had their eyes looked at by Eisen in a dark section of the room.

“Basically, I take photos of the back of their eye,” Eisen said. “And you can spot macro degeneration, glaucoma.”

The pictures taken of the seniors’ eyes will be sent to them so they can take it to their doctor.

The ultimate goal of these screenings was to look for non-proliferative retinopathy and proliferative retinopathy. If there is a sign of retinopathy, it will show a presence of abnormal cell growth within the cells of the affected retina tissue. The sooner that retinopathy is diagnosed, the better the chance is of preventing it from progressing.

For patients in the late stages of retinopathy, there may be floaters in their vision. These are caused by blood leaking from swollen blood vessels in the retina. Even if the floaters disappear, that doesn’t mean your retinopathy has improved, but rather, it means that the

blood from the blood vessel was absorbed into the tissue of your eye.

“This is preventative,” Cordts explained. “There’s shots, injections, radiation, and different therapies that can help and then all the way up to surgical procedures.”

After the screenings, the seniors took part in diabetic bingo, which was dubbed “Diabingo.”

“It was a fun way to get them informed,” Scott Apgar, director of the center’s diabetes management and education program, said.

Some of the words on the Diabingo bingo card included hypoglycemia, glucose, fats, carbohydrates, and more medical terms.

Photos courtesy Lynbrook Restorative Therapy and Nursing Seniors wearing sunglasses so their eyes dilate before they receive a retinopathy screening.

Annual eye screenings are crucial for people with diabetes, as retinopathy can cause vision loss if it goes undetected.

Scott Apgar, left, and Brian Cordts speaking to seniors at Lynbrook Restorative Therapy and Nursing about the importance of getting regular eye exams.

The screenings took pictures of the back of the eye, which can show if someone has retinopathy or not.

AP Environmental Science students from East Rockaway High School visiting the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility in Bay Park to learn about the work they are doing to protect Long Island’s environment.

E. Rockaway AP students visit Bay Park water reclamation facility

East Rockaway High School AP Environmental Science students recently donned hard hats and safety vests as they prepared to get a firsthand look at the essential work taking place at the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility in Bay Park.

During the tour, the students learned about the stages of water treatment taking place at the facility, including the Biological Nutrient Removal system, which removes nitrogen from

the treated water and the Bay Park Conveyance Project which will eventually transport the treated water underground to the Cedar Creek Water Pollution Control Plant and out through the Atlantic Ocean outflow pipe.

This project will further improve storm protection and quality of life in Long Island’s western bays.

— Ben Fiebert

Seniors sign to play at colleges and universities

Sixteen seniors at Lynbrook High School signaled their commitment to continue their athletic careers at a range of colleges and universities on April 3.

Family members and loved ones gathered in the Lynbrook High School gymnasium to celebrate the occasion as the senior athletes signed off on their intent to play at their future schools. The 16 athletes will play at 15 different colleges and universities. They include:

Mary Costello – Georgian Court University, lacrosse

Joseph Vacchio – Misericordia University, track and field

Elena McDonald – Indiana University of Pennsylvania, lacrosse

Katie Sharkey – DeSales University, softball

Ellyana Frank – Rutgers University, D1A dance Michael Hendrickson –

Adelphi University, lacrosse

Thomas Scholl – Mohawk Valley Community College, baseball

Katherine Ferng – Iona University, volleyball

Nora Kane – California Institute of Technology, swimming

Caiden Lung – Massachusetts Institute of Technology, lacrosse

Patrick O’Doherty – University of Cortland, lacrosse

Ramon Calderon – Post University, football

Clyde Solide – Hartwick College, football, track and field

Grace Devaney – SUNY Maritime College, volleyball

Mackenzie Casey – Adelphi University, Volleyball

Aimee Quinlan – Fairfield University, swimming

— Ben Fiebert

Courtesy East Rockaway School District

Annual Concert at St. Agnes Cathedral

THE SOUTH SHORE SYMPHONY

“SOUND VISIONS: MUSIC AND ART”

ADAM GLASER MUSIC DIRECTOR AND CONDUCTOR WITH MICHAEL BOWER, ORGANIST

SUNDAY JUNE 2, 2024 • 7:00 PM

PROGRAM - MUSIC INSPIRED BY ART

Respighi: Church Windows

Mozart: Overture to The Magic Flute

Granados: Intermezzo from Goyescas

Liszt: Battle of the Huns

at St. Agnes Cathedral

29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre, NY

Suggested donation $20 per person at the door

STEPPING OUT

A sweet time with

SWEET CHARITY

Life’s heartbreak in the Big Apple is told with humor on the Madison Theatre stage

By Danielle Schwab

“If they could see me now, that little gang of mine ...”

Audiences at the Madison Theatre can see “her” now, as Madison Theatre Productions brings the iconic musical “Sweet Charity” to its stage this weekend, May 31 to June 2.

The “her,” of course, is Charity, the exuberant gal desperately seeking love in 1960s New York City. The award-winning show, with the legendary Bob Fosse’s captivating choreography, is brought to life by director Angelo Fraboni — the Madison Theatre’s artistic director — with a cast of young actors honing their craft at Molloy University’s renowned Cap21 Musical Theatre Conservatory.

With a name like Charity Hope Valentine, it comes as no surprise that this sassy, diehard romantic dance hall hostess’s naivety and overeager embrace of every man she meets keeps getting her in hot water, in her search for sweet romance.

“She just wants to be loved,” Fraboni says. “She finds love, and then it doesn’t find her, but she still stays optimistic.”

Charity, played by rising senior Avery Bank, crosses paths with Oscar Lindquist, a square and claustrophobic accountant with a sweet nature and a gentle touch, played by 2024 graduate Riley Brennan, of Merrick. A budding romance between the two develops.

many ‘60s artists and personalities of the day, among them Andy Warhol and Gloria Steinem. Through its popularity, the musical has become a cultural reference in its own right, according to Fraboni.

For the 24 actors in the cast — their first contracted performance — this production is an important first step in their budding professional life.

“It’s a really cool show. Actually, it’s been one of my personal favorites for a long time,” Brennan says, of his role as Oscar. “It’s a bit niche, but I like the togetherness of everything — the music, the dancing. Oscar is a really fun, weird part.”

While the musical numbers are big, the story itself is simple.

Chris Botti

Award-winning jazz trumpeter

Chris Botta is always in the groove. Botti has found a form of creative expression that begins in jazz and expands beyond the limits of any single genre. Coming to prominence with the 2001 recording of his Night Sessions CD, he gained repute as a versatile musician for his ability to fuse jazz and pop together. For nearly three decades he’s demonstrated why he’s established himself as one of the most important, innovative figures of the contemporary music world; he’s collaborated with many superstars including Sting, Paul Simon, Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Joni Mitchell, Steven Tyler, Herbie Hancock and Yo-Yo Ma. Botti’s first album in over a decade finds him coming back to his roots, focusing on acoustic jazz and classic standards.

Sunday, June 2, 8 p.m. $99.50, $89.50, $74.50, $64.50, $59.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Written by Neil Simon and based on Federico Fellini’s film “Nights of Cabiria,” the star of the show truly is the choreography.

“It’s not very grand, but it has grand moments.It’s intimate in what Charity’s going for, what she wants, what she’s striving for and how she’s facing so much. We’re rooting for her,” Brennan says.

Fosse staged and choreographed the musical for Gwen Verdon, his third wife, who took on the role of Charity in the original 1966 Broadway production. And, of course, there are those classic musical numbers: “Big Spender,” “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” “I’m a Brass Band” and “Baby, Dream Your Dream.”

“If a Brass Band” and “Baby, Dream

• Friday through Sunday, May 31-June 2, times vary

The dance sequences — choreographed by Bethany Moore, the Madison Theatre’s assistant director — are an ode to Fosse’s signature jazz style.

Bonnie Raitt

“It was sort of (Fosse’s) love story for his wife. He built it for her,” Fraboni explains.

• Tickets $45-$65; available at MadisonTheatreNY.org, or call the box office at (516) 323-4444

Since its debut, the musical has been nominated for 16 Tony Awards and has won four, including Best Musical Revival in 1986. This is the first time Fraboni has staged the musical at the Madison Theatre. It speaks to him as a universal story of trying to achieve your dreams.

Since its debut, the musical has been for Tony to their own lives and seen it, experienced it. I

• Madison Theatre, Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

As Fraboni put it: “It’s ‘Fosse-esque.’ very distinct and stylized. It’s maximum effect with minimal movement. There’s a lot of humor and funny bits in the choreography because it is a comedy.”

While this is tale about love, it’s also a story that relates to the strength and courage of 1960s women coming into their own. Female empowerment, you might say.

“This is the sort of musical where women take back the power from men and take control over their own lives,” Fraboni adds.

Moreover, it’s about hope.

“What the journey is in the show, everyone has been through in their own lives and seen it, experienced it. I think it’ll really resonate with them,” he says.

“Life is hard,” he says. “I want people to walk away knowing that they saw a wonderful, heartfelt production that leaves them with hope.”

from the broken-down dance halls

Audiences move through the many realms of 1960s Manhattan: from the broken-down dance halls to Central Park to New York City’s subway system.

More than just a best-selling artist, respected guitarist, expressive singer, and accomplished songwriter, Bonnie Raitt is an institution in American music. She has cemented her icon status, named one of the ‘100 Greatest Singers of All Time,’ and one of the ‘100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time’ (Rolling Stone). She’s headed back out on the road again with members of her longtime touring band, arriving on Long Island with her ‘Just Like That’ tour. Many would think Raitt might be eager to rest and take some downtime after headlining 75 concerts in 2022 and another 50 in 2023 spanning the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Scotland, Ireland and Canada, and winning numerous awards that year. The fact is, though there are always healthy breaks built into each tour, Bonnie itches to get back to what she loves most — traveling and playing live. Luckily her band, crew and fans feel the same way.

Photos courtesy Madison Theatre

“It goes from playful to sensual, to aristocratic, to hippie,” Fraboni adds.

It’s also considered an homage to

The cast finds their steps in rehearsal. Audiences can share in the romantic trials and tribulations of Charity Hope Valentine, ‘a girl who wanted to be loved,’ in this spirited production of the hit musical.

Saturday, June 8, 8 p.m. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com or call (516) 247-5200.

THE Your Neighborhood

‘The Rocketman Show’

Remember when rock was young?

You will after this enthralling show, on the Paramount stage, Friday, June 7, 8 p.m.

Prepare to blast off into the stratosphere with this electrifying tribute to the Rocketman himself.

With a nostalgic setlist that’ll take you right back to when rock was young, this is the perfect night out for Elton John fans — of all generations. Rus Anderson, Elton John’s official body double for his Farewell Yellow Brick Road world tour launch, recreates an early Elton concert complete with the flamboyant costumes actually worn by Elton himself.

Enjoy an evening of Elton’s greatest hits, wildest outfits and outrageous stage antics. Anderson recreates the magic and live persona of a young Elton like no other. Storming around the stage with a fun-loving sense of flamboyance; part diva, part soccer player, killer vocalist, fierce piano player, all rock ‘n roller. Experience one of the most detailed re-creations of Elton John’s ‘70s shows — from uncanny vocals and staging. Anderson’s painstaking attention to detail includes wearing colorful, spectacular costumes, including Elton’s iconic boots, glasses and jumpsuits from 1973, as well as a sparkly Swarovski tuxedo from 1984. $65, $45, $35, $30. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.

Family theater

Families will enjoy another musical adventure, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, May 31, 10:15 a.m. and noon; also Saturday, June 1, 11:30 a..m. and 2 p.m. Back by popular demand after a sold-out 2023 run, see Pigeon, Bus Driver, and some zany passengers sing and dance their way to help Pigeon find his “thing” in this upbeat comedy based on Willems’ popular Pigeon books.

Featuring a live band to bring Deborah Wicks La Puma’s jazzy score to life, audiences will thoroughly enjoy singing and flapping along with The Pigeon and friends. The audience is part of the action, in this innovative mix of songs, silliness and feathers. It’s an ideal way to introduce kids to theater and the humorous stories from Willems’ books.

$10 with museum admission ($8 members), $14 theater only.

Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution,” is a comprehensive exhibit featuring a diverse range of compositions from the 1980s through the present by creators who were based in the rough and tumble downtown area of New York City known as Loisaida/LES (Lower East Side/East Village) and close surrounding neighborhoods.

Artists pushed the boundaries of what was considered “art” with a primary focus on street/graffiti art. The exhibit’s scope, guest curated by art collector/gallerist Christopher Pusey, offers an even broader view from other creative residents, who worked inside their studios but still contributed to the rich fabric of the downtown art scene from different vantage points and aesthetics.

Works include sculpture, paintings, photography, music, and ephemera from many noted and influential artists.On view through July 7. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

June 1

Floral design for kids

Old Westbury Gardens Director

Maura Brush leads a 45-minute floral arranging class just for kids, Saturday, June 1, 1010:45 a.m., to explore their creative side. Fresh flowers will be used, and she will teach proper care and handling, water, and how to make sure your floral arrangement lasts and looks beautiful. Discuss flower names and fun facts about each flower. For ages 5-12. $30. Registration required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

Summer sounds

Dance the night away as Decadia plays tribute music from the ‘80s and beyond, Tuesday, July 2, 7:30 p.m., at Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore. The concert is sponsored by the Town of Hempstead. Those attending are asked to bring a chair or blanket. Visit HempsteadNY.gov for more information.

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure, Saturday, June 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stroll the gardens and listen to Mélina Mangal’s modern tale “Jayden’s Impossible Garden.” Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

Season Picnic

Participate in the 2024 Season Picnic at Greis Park, Saturday, June 15 ,at 11 a.m., hosted by Lynbrook East Rockaway Little League. For more information, call (516) 8872626.

Having an event?

Nature walk

Explore Sands Point Preserve’s environment, observing its unique physical features and wildlife, and discussing critical conservation issues, led by environmental educator Hildur Palsdottir, Saturday, June 1, 10-11:30 a.m. This walk, on the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim, focuses on “Birds, Bees and Blooms.” Participants engage in hands-on nature discovery activities. $15, $5 child ($10 members, children free). Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

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

On stage

Plaza Theatrical brings back its acclaimed Broadway series. With the recent passing of Stephen Sondheim, regarded as one of the most important figures in 20thcentury musical theatre for reinventing the American musical, Plaza honors him with a staging of “Into the Woods,” Friday, May 31, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, June 1, 2:30 p.m.; also Thursday, June 6, 2 p.m. See it 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.

Huckleberry Frolic

The Village of East Rockaway presents the 54th Annual Huckleberry Frolic, Saturday, June 8,1 0 a.m.-5 p.m., in Memorial Park adjacent to Village Hall. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the corner of Cammerer Avenue and Main Street, continuing down to Memorial Park. The East Rockaway Cub Scout Pack 84 participates. Save the date to celebrate the anniversary of the Haviland-Davison Grist Mill. Anyone interested in being a vendor can call (516) 368-4157 or contact Village Hall at (516) 887-4157. Applications are available at VillageOfEastRockaway. org.

Art talk

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum, Thursday, June 13, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the in-depth program and also participate in a guided exhibition tour following the lecture, at 2 p.m. No reservations required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Lynbrook Cruise Nights

The Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce car shows are back on Atlantic Avenue!, begining Thursday, June 6. Come enjoy a nice spring night out in Lynbrook. Check out the cars and have dinner in one of Lynbrook’s local restaurants. Spectators are free! Showing a car? It’s $5. Staging starts at 5:30 p.m. at 14 St. James Place between Forest and Earl. For more information, visit LynbrookUSA.com or (516) 242-4649.

Members of the East Rockaway High School

Varsity Baseball team visiting Rhame Avenue Elementary School to kick off PARP Month with ‘Home Run for Reading.’

Courtesy East Rockaway School District

East Rockaway kicks off PARP with ‘Home Run for Reading’

On May 1, members of the East Rockaway High School varsity baseball team traveled down the street to Rhame Avenue Elementary School. They also brought along books to read to the younger students.

The “Home Run for Reading” visit was the first in a series of PARP, Pick A Read-

ing Partner, events that East Rockaway schools will be holding throughout May. PARP is a program designed to foster a lifelong love of reading in children. Other events scheduled for East Rockaway students include assemblies, readins, and more.

— Ben Fiebert

Lynbrook students win at science and engineering fair

Five students were honored at the April 16 Lynbrook Board of Education meeting for achieving success at the annual New York State Science and Engineering Fair.

Science research students attended the fair to present their professional-level experiments to judges. Of the five students who attended, all of them received awards. They include:

Caroline Larow, who won fourth place for her project, “Assay of Epigenetic Mechanisms Involved in Transposition Activity of Ac/Ds Transposons in Maize”

dents, who awarded in the New York State Science and Engineering Fair, were honored at the April 16 board of education meeting.

Stephanie Neri, who won fourth place for her project, “Using Image Analysis to Understand the Relationship Between Meristem Architecture and Ear Size in Naturally Varied Maize Genotypes”

Colette Doyle, who won fourth place for her project, “Investigating the Roles of Extracellular Signaling Molecules Protein 7 and Protein 3 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia In Vitro”

Caiden Lung, who won first place for his project, “Training Set Preparation and Analysis for Construction of a Deep Neural Network Designed to Search Potential Drugs Against COVID-19 Using Deep Docking”

Nora Kane, who won first place for her project, “Analysis of Fourier Transforms Using a Combined Encoder-Decoder and Deep Neural Network Model: A Novel Method for Determining Chromaticity”

In addition, Nora’s project was named one of the best 15 projects in New York State, for which she will advance to the International Science and Engineering Fair to be held this month. The district congratulated these hard-working young scientists at the board meeting.

— Ben Fiebert

Herald Class of 2024 Keepsake Edition

Courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools

Lynbrook High School science research stu-

Who we are, what we’re about, and what we stand for is based on memory. Thus, when we experience problems with our memory, it’ll probably feel frightening. If we can’t recall someone’s name, if we can’t locate our keys, if we don’t remember what we were talking about, we may think, “Uh, oh, I’m losing it. Is dementia setting in? Could I have a brain tumor? Is it high anxiety or just too much on my plate? What’s happening?”

There’s no easy answer to those questions. Memory failures are complicated and varied. When a kid claims that he forgot his homework, we tend to blame it on apathy or inattention. Yet, when older adults forget to do something, we tend to think it’s something more ominous. Though it’s certainly possible that forgetting may be a sign of brain cells deteriorating, most likely it’s simply a sign of how the brain works.

Here are some common problems with memory that happen to everyone.

Tip of the Tongue Phenomenon

I know his name, I know it, I know

Memory problems PERSON TO PERSON

it, I can’t believe I don’t remember it. It begins with an S. Is it Sam, Scott, or maybe Stan? I know where I know him from, I know where he lives, I know his kids, but I can’t remember his damn name. Of course, ten minutes later, his name pops into your head. This is a memory retrieval problem that occurs more frequently as we age. It’s hard to catch the name because it’s encoded in the brain in a different place from where you’re looking. It’s like a misplaced file. The more you keep searching in the place you think it should be, the more frustrated you become. Let it go, and the answer will come to you!

Memory Distortions

to-be ex. No matter your age, memory is not an objective scientific journal. It’s much more like a subjective diary you rewrite to fit how you’re thinking at this moment in time. If you believe what you remember is precisely how it was, think again. Study after study indicates that people of all ages have strong biases that distort their memories. What you remember is probably only an approximation of what actually occurred.

Misattribution

Many arguments occur because of memory misattributions. An example: I told you I’ll be unable to join you on Saturday.

No, you never said that.

When a couples in love, they remember everything terrific about their partner. Yet when they’re in the lawyer’s office, they remember only the miserable things about their soon-

about.

Is this a problem of one or both parties lying, being inattentive, or having a memory lapse? We don’t always know. It’s often true, however, that you remember something you thought you did or planned to do but didn’t do. Or you’ve told a different person, not the person you thought you told. Or you told them you were going away last weekend, not this weekend. Do these memory problems seem familiar? If so, welcome to the club. Memory frequently tricks us. We remember things we want to forget, forget things we want to remember, and change bits and pieces of what we do remember.

©2024

I distinctly remember telling you that.

No, you didn’t.

You never listen to me.

You don’t know what you’re talking

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach, and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives, and overcome debilitating anxiety, procrastination, and depression. Contact her at DrSapadin@aol.com. Visit her website at www.PsychWisdom.com.

Linda Sapadin

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON TRUST, NA, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO CITIBANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE F/B/O HOLDERS OF STRUCTURED ASSET

MORTGAGE INVESTMENTS II INC., BEAR STEARNS ALT-A TRUST 2007-3, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-3, Plaintiff AGAINST SONIA F. GARNES AKA SONIA GARNES, ORLANDO FINDLAYTER

INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF YVETTE FINDLAYTER, ET AL., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 23, 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 June 11, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 67 LAWRENCE AVENUE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 54, Lot 219. Approximate amount of judgment $516,776.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #003213/2017. 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”. George Esernio, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-000730 80360 146593

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 27425, Pltf. vs. LFA BROTHER’S HOLDINGS, INC., et al, Defts. Index #610716/22. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 16, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 20, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

premises k/a 12 Oakland Avenue, Lynbrook, NY 11563 a/k/a Section 42, Block 126, Lots 32, 33 &281. Approximate amount of judgment is $503,028.68 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. EVAN

DANA VANLEERGREENBERG, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 79-37 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. File No. LF-366 - #101410 146839

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WATERFALL VICTORIA GRANTOR TRUST II, SERIES G, Plaintiff, vs. JORGE ARIAS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale After Inquest and Appointment of Referee duly entered on August 19, 2014 and an Order for Extension of Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale duly entered on February 2, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 25, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 18 Catherine Street, Lynbrook, NY 11563. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 226 and Lot 593. Approximate amount of judgment is $342,900.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008272/2009 and is subject to a strict foreclosure. 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, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 146964

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST GEORGE R. ERCOLE JR A/K/A

GEORGE ERCOLE, ET AL.,

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly

entered December 4, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 25, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 169 SPENCER AVENUE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 441, Lot 232. Approximate amount of judgment $367,743.07 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008271/2009. 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”. Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-002974 80624 146904

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook on May 20, 2024 enacted Local Law #2 of 2024 amending the Village Zoning Code: §252-2, 252-12, 252-30, 252-38 and 252-45, to include “Party Venue” as a prohibited use, with the addition of Article XVIII, Prohibited Uses. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES JOHN GIORDANO, VILLAGEADMINISTRATOR LYNBROOK, NEW YORK DATED: May 30, 2024 147091

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF TAX WARRANT

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF LYNBROOK

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Tax Collector of the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, New York, has received a Tax Roll and Warrant for the levy and collection of Real Property Taxes for the fiscal year 2024/2025. Property Taxes are payable in two (2) equal installments. FIRST HALF taxes become due and payable June 1, 2024. (Second Half taxes may be paid at the same time).

SECOND HALF taxes become due and payable December 1, 2024. To all first half taxes remaining unpaid after July 1, 2024 and, to all second half taxes remaining unpaid after December 31,2024, five per centum (5%) will be added for the first month and an additional amount as determined by Section 1432 of the Real Property Tax Law for each month, or part of a month, thereafter until paid. Taxes levied on the Tax Roll may be paid at the Office of the Village Clerk, Village Hall, One Columbus Drive, Lynbrook, New York, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM except Saturday, Sundays & Holidays. John Giordano, Tax Collector Lynbrook, New York 147075

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU GHA HOLDINGS, LLC, -against65 PHIPPS AVE LLC, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 14, 2023, wherein GHA HOLDINGS, LLC is the Plaintiff and 65 PHIPPS AVE LLC, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 27, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 65 PHIPPS AVENUE, EAST ROCKAWAY, NY 11518; and the following tax map identification: Section 38, Block 506, Lot 52-53.

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 EAST ROCKAWAY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 602603/2020. Brian J. Davis, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not

Lynbrook’s Spector family presents grant to build outdoor classroom

The Spector family, longtime active supporters of the Lynbrook Schools community, presented a grant to build an outdoor classroom at Lynbrook High School at the March 13 board of education meeting.

Charles Spector, a former board trustee for 15 years, Marjorie Spector, a past PTA president in Lynbrook Schools, and Monica Spector, a Lynbrook graduate, attended the meeting to present the

Charles and Marjorie Spector Grant. In coordination with Lynbrook High School teacher William Luzzi, the family’s grant will fund the building of an outdoor classroom.

Many staff members at the high school are excited to see the project come to fruition.

— Ben Fiebert

L et us K now

News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com

Courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools

The Spector family presenting the Charles and Marjorie Spector Grant to Lynbrook High School teacher William Luzzi to build an outdoor classroom.

HERALD

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

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, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$20 - $25/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED

Will Certify And Train

HS Diploma

NYS License Clean 3 Years

$20 - $25/ Hour

Call 516-731-3000

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

HANDYPERSON WANTED

Immediate Opening at our Garden City Location DESIRED SKILLS: Electrical * Welding * Carpentry Mechanical * Plumbing Part Time/Fulltime (benefits available with full time) $18-$30 per hour based on experience Richner Communications, Inc 2 Endo Blvd Garden City, NY 11530 Send resume to careers@lixtherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 ext 211

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MECHANIC NEEDED Auto Experience A Plus With Tools Must Be Reliable Will Train Right Person Minimum 40 Hours A Week Have Valid Drivers License Own Transportation Benefits Available Oceanside 516-764-2552 Fax Or E-mail Resume To: 516-678-9087 butchbpms@aol.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

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 Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

RECEPTIONIST P/T

Pediatrician's Office Mon. Wed. Fri. 9am-5pm And Sat.

To place an ad call 516-569-4000

REAL ESTATE

Industrial Property

ISLAND PARK / AUSTIN BOULEVARD 1000- 5000 Sq. Ft, Parking,1 Story, Driveins, Gas, Offices, Sprinklered, Near Railroad. Immediate. Price On Request.Tony 718-937-8100 Ext.101 CROSSTOWN REALTY

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

ISLAND PARK: 1 BR, ground floor, all renovated, water/heat included. No Pets. $2200/ month. 516-316-6962

Cemetery Plots

BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY. 3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $4000; Purchase Together $11000. Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316

Elmont $825,000 Clinton

Split Level. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Home office. First floor master bedroom. Possible mother/ daughter with proper permits. Convenient location on dead end street, near schools and Averill Pool.

Taxes: $12,076

Hewlett $722,000

Fenimore Road. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom.

Taxes: $15,761

Lido Beach $1,300,000

Lagoon Drive. Splanch. 5 bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Waterfront property. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/ family room. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight.

Taxes: $15,482.16

Malverne $760,000

Drake Street. Colonial. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. New gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Large living room. Large formal dining room. Front room den/office. Updated central air conditioning.

Taxes: $12,726

Merrick $1,300,000

Maeder Avenue. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eatin kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. Many high-end updates including cathedral ceiling and skylight.

Taxes: $12,500

Oceanside $755,000

Waukena Avenue. Colonial. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. Security system. Taxes: $13,456

Rockville Centre $1,175,000

Hollywood Court. Tudor. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room and wet bar. Ample storage. Taxes: $25,326.58

Valley Stream $720,000 Edwards Place. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement.

The landlord isn’t taking any responsibility

Q. I bought a previous business, as a tenant, and made changes, because even though it was a gym, my business is nutrition. I was told that the business is different, and now I need a “change of use” zoning variance. I also learned from the fire alarm company that even though I am not changing the interiors, I am going to have to add wall covering to both sides of the wall because it is required to be two-hour rated and the current space is one hour. This is unfair. My landlord says it is up to me, that they rented it “as is,” and I should have checked everything. My attorney is looking into how to get the landlord to make the building code-compliant, and I don’t understand why I need a zoning variance. How could I have avoided this, how do I deal with it, and how much time and money is it going to cost?

A. Let’s start with the time. If all of the issues you described take place, you could be looking at five to nine months, typically, and possibly more, depending on the many factors involved. Your landlord has to be part of the process by providing information and, depending on the jurisdiction, signatures on the paperwork for the processes.

There are several processes: plans, a building permit application process, zoning board process, site work and inspections, and then final sign-off are the normal procedures. Again, depending on the cooperation and decisions of all the parties, the process could take much longer. When this happens, which is quite often, I have to warn the tenant that a year for this process is not unexpected, because we rarely see the landlord lending a hand or the government processes moving quickly. You should plan accordingly by deducting the costs for not being open, paying rent and utilities and incidentals.

I am certain that this is not what anyone wants to hear, but the reality is that few people engage a professional to assess zoning or record drawings of what exists and what governmental procedures will become involved. To compound the problem, the levels of approvals from different authorities are scattered, not in one jurisdiction. There are county, local and fire marshal requirements, all separate from one another. Health department, fire marshal and county road requirements are outside the requirements of your local jurisdiction.

Unfortunately, the search and sales process often overlooks the research necessary to understand what you are really supposed to know before the rental or purchase transaction is completed. Compounded with the problems is that policies, procedures and building codes are not stagnant. They evolve based on health, safety and cost factors including taxes and other forms of government funds. This is the reality of taking a property, and I have often asked government to communicate their changes to all the people involved with sales, legal transactions, building design, owners, etc. Instead, it is “buyer, beware.” Good luck!

© 2024 Monte Leeper

Readers

Stuff HERALD

Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work, Lic./ Ins. Owner Always Onsite Free Estimates 516-354-5578

ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Exterminating

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Handyman

HANDYMAN

Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated. Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112

E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

Home Improvement

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

DO YOU NEED a Roof or Energy Efficient Windows & Help paying for it? YOU MAY QUALIFY THROUGH NEW RELIEF PROGRAMS (800) 944-9393 or visit NYProgramFunding.org to qualify. Approved applications will have the work completed by a repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs.

WIREMAN/CABLEMAN/HANDYMAN

FLAT TVS mounted, Phone, TVs & Computer wiring installed & serviced, camera systems installed & stereos, HDTV Antennas- FREE TV www.davewireman.com Call Dave 516-433-WIRE (9473) 631-667-WIRE (9473) or Text 516-353-1118

Miscellaneous

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

HErald Crossword Puzzle

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. 516-599-1011.

Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells

Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Tree Services

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Auctions

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY ONLINE AUCTION: 5/1-5/31 Bar & Grill with Brewery Equipment. 126 N. 3rd Street, Douglas, Wyoming. 10,900 SF Retail, TURN-KEY OPERATION! Sale Info: 800-536-1401, x.401 AuctionsInternational.com Promo code: WESTBID24

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

Health Coverage

FREEDOMCARE. LET YOUR loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556

Legal Services

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?

opInIons

We must back the blue,

now more than ever

Across the United States today, law enforcement agencies are being forced to contend with a previously unforeseen convergence of crises:

An explosion in fentanyl and other illicit drug trafficking. Millions of migrants who have recently crossed the southern border. And a criminal recidivism problem fueled by progressive prosecutors and their allies in elected office.

These challenges have created a worrying national trend in law enforcement morale and a deteriorating public safety situation in many corners of America, including right here in New York. It is incumbent on all levels of government to support the men and women in blue who faithfully defend the communities they have sworn to protect.

As a retired New York City police detective who now has the pleasure of serving in Congress, I will continue fighting on Capitol Hill for solutions to

Inever really thought of myself as being the product of a large family until much later in life.

When I was growing up, most knew only of my younger sister, Renee. Maybe an older brother or an older sister. But in reality, I have six brothers and sisters, which is hard to fathom — especially since I didn’t grow up with most of them.

And we only have time to blame for that.

My oldest brother, Randy, was already an adult when I was born, and welcomed his first son — my oldest nephew — when I was barely out of the crib.

He and I share our father in common, as do my two other oldest sib-

the problems plaguing police officers nationwide.

Americans of all backgrounds travel to Washington to advocate for a host of policies that are important to them.

Between May 12 and May 18, thousands of law enforcement professionals converged on the Capitol to speak with legislators in support of pro-police legislation, highlight the need for additional federal assistance for policing agencies, and memorialize law enforcement heroes who died in the line of duty.

islation, the Police Our Border Act, passed in the House of Representatives on May 17.

This bill would require the Justice Department to compile a report on the experiences of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers working on issues related to immigration along the country’s southern border.

I will continue to fight for solutions to the problems plaguing officers nationwide.

During this year’s Police Week, I was honored to meet with representatives of several policing agencies, including former colleagues from the NYPD, to lay a wreath in memory of fallen police professionals at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, to stand alongside fellow House Republicans with law enforcement experience in support of pro-police House legislation, and to memorialize the life of fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, who was murdered in March during a traffic stop in Queens.

In addition to those activities, I am especially pleased to report that my leg-

Regretfully, law enforcement agencies across the country are being forced to contend with the consequences of the ongoing influx of migrants, with many local police departments thrust onto the front lines of this national crisis thanks to the Biden administration’s inability to secure our homeland.

The Police Our Border Act would provide Congress a clear picture of the new burden placed on law enforcement professionals as a result of the migrant crisis, and help legislators determine where best to divert critical federal resources law enforcement officers so desperately need.

The national conversation about policing has been volatile in recent years, and far too many officers have been unjustly targeted by an unholy alliance of radical legislators, soft-on-

crime prosecutors and district attorneys, and the perennially out-of-touch progressive activist class that have been advancing their abolish-the-police agenda.

Indeed, we have seen the fruits of these dangerous leftist ideologues in the form of New York’s disastrous “bail reform” legislation, the ascendancy of seemingly pro-criminal Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and antisemitic rioters on many college campuses targeting law enforcement professionals who were deployed simply to protect Jewish students and keep the peace.

The burgeoning anti-police alliance in American society today underscores the need for pro-police Americans and their elected representatives to make their voices heard, publicly support the nation’s law enforcement professionals, and stand up to those who seek to undermine the men and women in blue.

During my time in the NYPD, we were often called to remember the department’s motto, fidelis ad mortem — “faithful unto death.”

For as long as I have breath, I will fight for the men and women in blue, because they need our support, now more than ever.

Anthony D’Esposito represents the 4th Congressional District.

Watching life move too fast

lings, Christine and Ricky. We never shared a household. By the time I was old enough to remember anything, they were already on their own, starting their own families.

The siblings that I share with my mom, however, were younger, though not by much. Her oldest son, Rich — yes, I have two brothers with the same first name — is nine years older than me. My sister, Lynette, isn’t too far behind. We all did share a home together — that is, until they grew up and moved out, all while Renee and I were still in elementary school.

been even better.

Not having children of my own, I never had to experience that “empty nest” syndrome I’ve heard so much about. That is, until last weekend, when my youngest niece, Laci, picked up her high school diploma at a rural Pennsylvania school.

D on’t wait until so much of it has passed to appreciate it the most.

I sometimes imagine what it would’ve been like if we had all grown up together. Yet I’m glad life turned out the way it did. Growing up with my many nephews and nieces has been a fantastic experience. Seeing them start their own families and find success has

I am so proud of my niece and all that she’s accomplished in school. She’s already a certified nurse assistant, and she’ll attend Penn State University in the fall. Her brother, Ryan, is working to establish himself as an electrician. My sister and her husband, Ben, have raised some great kids.

But still, did they all have to grow up so fast? I still have a picture of me holding baby Laci in my arms for the first time some 18 years ago. I still have a picture of a note when she asked, as a

very young girl, when “Unkle Mike” was coming to visit.

Laci is smart (graduating with honors), knows what she wants, and for her, the sky’s the limit. But even she will soon experience the same thing all of us have felt — how the older we get, the faster life moves. Where, in one minute, she’s an infant in your arms, and in the next, she’s a young woman ready to start her post-high school life. It won’t be long before Laci and Ryan have families of their own, and they’ll scratch their heads, wondering how it all went by so quickly.

That’s where living in the moment really becomes valuable. Taking a breath. Pausing everything. Just enjoying what’s in front of us.

God has created a beautiful world, and filled it with so many beautiful things. Don’t wait until so much of life has passed to appreciate it the most.

Michael Hinman is executive editor of Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? mhinman@liherald.com.

AnTHonY D’EsposITo

MICHAEL HInMAn

HeraLd editoriaL

Keep showing up to vote

We just voted on school and library budgets — and the trustees to manage them — but our work isn’t over. Not yet.

All of us need to get out and vote again in just a few weeks, in the primary election on June 25. And some of will also have an earlier vote as well, on June 18, for political offices in our own communities.

Yes, that’s a lot of voting. But it’s the very essence of democracy, and what helps make our country so amazing.

Voting is often described as a cornerstone of democracy, a fundamental right that empowers all of us to shape our government and its policies. While presidential elections draw significant attention, local and primary elections frequently suffer from lower voter turnout.

Many people question the importance of these smaller-scale elections — especially if the outcome seems predetermined. But voting in local and primary elections is crucial for a number of reasons, and every vote truly does matter.

Local elections directly affect our daily lives in ways that national elections do not. They determine who will make decisions about schools, public safety infrastructure and local taxes.

Letters

By participating in these local elections, we have a direct hand in shaping our neighborhoods, and ensuring that their specific needs and concerns are addressed.

Primaries — like the ones involving Assembly and State Senate seats on June 25 — are another critical juncture of the democratic process. They determine which candidates will appear on the ballot in the general election, effectively shaping the choices available to voters.

The primary is often the most competitive phase of an election, particularly in areas where one political party dominates. Yet by voting in primaries, we can influence the selection of candidates who best represent our views and values.

This is especially important when considering the diversity of opinions within a political party, whether you’re Republican or Democrat. A broad spectrum of candidates can lead to more nuanced and representative governance.

A common misperception is that an individual vote doesn’t matter, particularly if the outcome seems predictable. History, however, is replete with examples of elections that were decided by a handful of votes. Local and primary elections often have much lower turn-

The debates will answer questions

To the Editor:

On Feb. 5, Merrick Garland, the U.S. attorney general, received Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report and conclusions following his interviews with President Biden about the classified documents found at Biden’s home in Delaware and other locations.

Hur concluded there was insufficient evidence to justify charging the president with criminal misconduct. The House Oversight Committee, chaired by Kentucky Republican Congressman James Comer, requested and received from the Justice Department the 250-page transcript of the two interviews, which extended over a five-hour period.

On March 12, the House Judiciary Committee — chaired by Ohio Republican Congressman Jim Jordan — held a public hearing in which members of the committee questioned Hur about the interviews and his conclusion. At no point during the hearing did Hur, armed with a copy of the transcript, state that it was incomplete or inaccurate in any way.

Nevertheless, in May, Comer — whose months-long efforts to come up with crimes and misdemeanors sufficient to impeach the president have come to naught — demanded that the Justice Department give the committee the audiotapes of the interview, ostensibly to confirm that the transcript did not leave anything out or was inaccurate.

Citing executive privilege, the White House has refused to comply with Comer’s request.

On May 16, the Republican members of the Oversight and Judiciary committees voted to hold Garland in contempt of Congress for failing to hand over the audiotapes. That same day, Comer sent out an email seeking donations from his con-

out than national elections, meaning that each vote carries more weight. Close races can — and do — happen, and a few votes can tip the balance. At the same time, higher voter participation can lend greater legitimacy to the elected officials and the democratic process itself, fostering a more engaged and responsive government.

And, if nothing else, these local elections set the stage for future national leaders. Look at U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito. The former New York Police Department detective and volunteer firefighter was first elected to the Hempstead town council in 2016. Now D’Esposito is helping to make decisions not just for parts of Nassau County, but the entire country.

Congressman Tom Suozzi is another product of local elections. He was elected mayor of Glen Cove in 1993, and moved on to become the Nassau County executive in 2001. He went to Congress in 2016, left in 2022 for a gubernatorial run, and then returned this year to replace his disgraced successor, George Santos.

Voting in local and primary elections is essential. Even if the outcome seems certain, showing up to vote is a powerful statement of engagement and commitment to the democratic process.

stituents and others in which he claimed that Biden and his advisers were “terrified that I, James Comer, will release the recordings, forcing the media and the Democrats to answer for the dismal decline of Biden’s mental state.”

Obviously, since the transcript is complete, the only reason that Comer and his fellow Republicans want the audiotapes is to use edited parts of

them in ads, in attempts to prove Biden’s diminishing mental competence.

Perhaps the first televised presidential debate between Biden and former president Donald Trump, scheduled to take place on June 27, will reveal to some degree the mental competence of both candidates.

MIRIAM LEVINE HELBOK Bronx

opinions

The echoes of Kristallnacht in New York City

in the early hours of May 15, an unsettling event transpired in New York City. Rothschild TLV, a kosher restaurant on Manhattan’s Lexington Avenue, was targeted by vandals. The incident came on the heels of antiIsrael protests, casting a grim light on the surge of antisemitism that has beset the city. The restaurant’s chef, Guy Kairi, recounted how passersby hurled vitriolic comments, linking their hate speech to the state of Palestine. Such remarks reflect an alarming rise in hostility toward the Jewish community. This act of vandalism was more than just a broken window; it was a stark reminder of darker times. Broken glass has a poignant meaning for the Jewish people, evoking memories of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, in 1938. Nazis terrorized Jewish-owned businesses, synagogues and homes in Germany, marking a significant escalation in the

persecution of Jews. What happened at Rothschild TLV was a chilling echo of those atrocities, reminding us that hatred, if left unchecked, can escalate into widespread violence.

The parallels to Kristallnacht are not drawn lightly. On Nov. 9 and 10, 1938, the Nazis orchestrated a series of pogroms under the guise of spontaneous public outrage. This coordinated attack on Jewish lives and property marked the beginning of a more intense phase of the Holocaust. The violence seen on Kristallnacht was a precursor to the horrors that followed, because it emboldened Nazi officials to pursue even more aggressive anti-Jewish policies. Today, we must be vigilant to ensure that history does not repeat itself.

twhen looting of our Democratic-run cities was the norm, sometimes encouraged, and for the most part not prosecuted.

Since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, there has been a noticeable uptick in antisemitic and anti“establishment” incidents in cities across the country. These acts of hate, whether they manifest as vandalism, hate speech or physical violence, threaten the fabric of our diverse communities.

he seeming normalization of antisemitic incidents is what’s so disconcerting.

The echoes of the past are reverberating in our present. The attack on Rothschild TLV was not an isolated incident, but rather part of a worrying trend of increasing antisemitic and anti-American acts in our city and, for that matter, in our country. Let’s remember the Summer of Rage in 2020,

Letters

Let’s put aside the ignorance

To the Editor:

Why does ignorance about the history of Palestine and Israel still persist? Palestine was an ancient land, named by the Romans, and was home to the Jews for thousands of years. The indigenous Palestinians were the Jews.

In 1923, the British decreed that 70 percent of the Palestine Mandate — which they won by defeating the Ottoman Empire in World War I — should become an Arab state, and named it Transjordan, later shortened to Jordan.

In World War II, the Nazis — who were supported by the Arabs of Palestine (the Mufti of Jerusalem spent the war years in Germany as Hitler’s guest) — were defeated. Then, after much deliberation, the United Nations decided to divide what was left of the land of the Palestine Mandate.

The Jews of Palestine were offered roughly half of what was left of the mandate territory (perhaps 10 percent of the original land) in order to establish their own state. And the Arabs were offered the other part. The population settlements were considered.

In 1948, the Jews created Israel. The Palestinian Arabs did not create a state, and instead started a war against Israel, the first of many — and they lost all of

them.

According to international law, all territory lost by the aggressors in a war that they started belongs to the defenders. The Israelis should own Gaza and the West Bank. They don’t want it. They just want to be left alone, in peace, having absorbed more Jews who were forced to leave Muslim lands than the total number of Arabs who left Palestine/Israel during the wars that the Arabs started.

The Jordanians controlled the Palestinian part of the land for 19 years, but in all that time, the Palestinian Arabs never created a state. They had several chances to do so, but each time they refused.

Now they are chanting, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.” Most of the protesters now don’t know the name of the river or the sea, but their stated goal is to destroy Israel, and create yet another Arab state, without any Jews, as they declared in their newly proposed charter.

To say this is justice is ludicrous!

The Palestinian Arabs have exported their “intifada” to the world. They rely on people’s ignorance of their history to justify their absurd grievances. They have created no viable companies or societies on their own.

The United Nations and Israel have paid for their housing, food and living expenses. The Arabs maintain “refugee camps” 75 years after they lost the war they began, instead of creating peaceful societies. They are the only people, in the

fervor, with music and festivities filling the streets, signaling that fear will not silence the Jewish voice.

But resilience alone is not enough. We need actionable steps from our city’s leaders to combat this hate, and that begins with ending cashless bail and replacing the Soros-bought district attorneys.

What is most disconcerting is the seeming normalization of such acts.

The New York City Police Department’s initial lack of information about the incident at Rothschild TLV underscores a broader problem: Antisemitic acts are becoming so frequent that they risk becoming part of the city’s backdrop.

It is imperative that we address this rising tide of antisemitism head-on. The Jewish community’s response to the attack on Rothschild TLV has been one of resilience and solidarity. Celebrations of Israeli Independence Day on May 14 were marked with even more

New York City must stand united against antisemitism in all its forms. We must ensure that our law enforcement agencies have the resources, the training and the public and judicial backup necessary to identify and respond to hate crimes effectively. And we must promote educational initiatives that foster understanding and tolerance among our diverse populations, and that begins with the immediate removal of educators who teach and encourage this hate.

The echoes of the past are indeed haunting, but they also offer us a chance to reaffirm our commitment to a future of peace, tolerance and mutual respect. As I am often heard saying, “This is how it all began. We must ensure it never happens again, and if it does, it will be punished.”

Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.

Framework by Tim Baker

At

J.

history of civilization, to demand they still be designated ”refugees” generations after the war they initiated had ended. Ignorance is not bliss. Hamas and the Palestinian Arab protesters have used “useful idiots” to advance their cause, as

described by a former member of Hamas.

The time to stop that is now.

Norman

Levy Park and Preserve — Merrick

ari Brown