Malverne/West Hempstead Herald 02-29-2024

Malverne/West HeMpstead

HERALD

lovebirds renew vows for V-Day Page 3

Garbage truck sells for $14,000 Page 5

Flower shop gets a new owner Page 7

$1.00

The first Black students in Malverne

By NIColE FoRMISANo

nformisano@liherald.com

Frederick Brewington still

ents’ vitriol. Brewington was even elected class president from eighth grade through senior year of high school.

Garbage truck sells for $14,000

Page 5

every

Annual ‘People’s Food Drive’ is off to slow start

By NIColE FoRMISANo nformisano@liherald.com

For the 13th year in a row, Rob Hallam is stacking his living room with boxes of food for his annual People’s Food Drive.

“It’s gotten so big,” Hallam, of Lynbrook, said. “I get checks from out of state. So any person involved with this in any way, it’s their food drive. That’s why I started calling it the People’s Food Drive.”

The food drive’s origins lie with the Community Presbyterian Church of Malverne, where Hallam and his wife, Mary, are members. The church is a long-standing contributor of the Long Island Council of Churches

food pantry — but the Hallams wanted to do more.

“If you believe in callings, I had a calling,” Hallam said. “I felt that God was telling me, ‘your church has done a great job collecting food here, but you’ve got to make this thing bigger. You’ve got to take it out of the church doors.’”

To collect food items and money donations, Hallam and his church have teamed up with local businesses — like his workplace, Nassau Door and Window, which started putting out collection boxes, and Cross Island Fruits, which provides strawberry boxes to store the donations. Count -

Continued on page 8

Flower shop gets a new owner

The first Black students in Malverne

By NIColE FoRMISANo nformisano@liherald.com

Frederick Brewington still remembers that first day of school when he arrived at Lindner Place Elementary School as a 9-year-old. He was instantly met with a swarm of reporters. They stuck a microphone in his mouth. ‘What did your mother tell you?’ they asked him.

“Walk straight to school, and don’t step on anyone’s lawn,” Brewington, 67, remembered saying, “Because they don’t want you over there anyway.”

Pents’ vitriol. Brewington was even elected class president from eighth grade through senior year of high school.

“Malverne turned into a great, wonderful learning experience,” Brewington said, “For so many people who may not have had the opportunity — or may not have taken the opportunity — to learn about the things that make us similar as opposed to the things that can separate us.”

eople died so that we might be able to advocate and make the change.

It was February 23, 1966, more than a decade after the Supreme Court ruled against segregation in schools — but Malverne, Lynbrook and Lakeview seemingly didn’t get the memo. The children of Malverne and Lynbrook, who were predominantly white, went to Davison Avenue and Lindner Place; the children of Lakeview, who were predominantly Black, went to Woodfield Road Elementary School.

FREDERICk BREwINGtoN

Among the biggest problems in the district, said Robin Delany, 71, said was the lack of representation. The all-white board strongly resisted integration, and filed a lawsuit against the executive order to desegregate. There were only one, maybe two, Black teachers in Malverne High School. There were zero Black administrators.

“The guidance was terrible when it came to Black kids,” Delany said. “Their expectations were so low.

When the district received a court order to desegregate, the community erupted. Protests against integration were vehement, Brewington said — white parents shouting ‘we don’t want you here’ and ‘go home.’ But kids in the classroom, he said, did not share their par-

“I remember being in the guidance office and watching a fellow student being told by one of the guidance counselors that he should go into the military, because he couldn’t do anything else.”

Delany was among the group of students who presented the Board of Education with a list

Continued

Courtesy Rob Hallam

year, Rob Hallam’s home is filled from floor to ceiling with food donations for the people’s Food drive.

“The Vacant Space Revival Program qualified us for on-bill credits that really help me manage costs.”

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown

Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

psegliny.com/EcoDev

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Couples renew vows for Valentine’s Day

Lovebirds celebrated the spirit of the holiday by renewing their wedding vows

More than 100 couples were feeling the love this Valentine’s Day, and spent the romantic holiday at the Coral House, in Baldwin, to get their vows renewed by Hempstead Town Clerk, Kate Murray. Ten of these lovebirds were from West Hempstead — Louis and Mirjana Filiberti, married for 9 years; Robert and Patricia Waffenschmidt, married for 33 years; Patricia and Michael Emma, married for 36 years; Roy and Gloria White, married for 61 years; and Ramon and Wilma Medina, married for 64 years.

Roy and Gloria White celebrated 61 years of marriage by having their vows renewed by Kate Murray, Town of Hempstead Clerk.

Photos courtesy Town of Hempstead

Patricia and Michael Emma, of West Hempstead, have been married for 36 years.

Ramon and Wilma Medina celebrated 64 years — one of the longest marriages at the vow renewal ceremony. They also celebrated Ash Wednesday, which fell on Valentine’s Day for the first time since 2018.

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray toasted to nine years of marriage for Louis and Mirjana Filiberti.

Married life is sweet as cake for couples like Robert and Patricia Waffenschmidt, married for 33 years, who wanted to celebrate by renewing their vows.

Fire district gives student scholarships

For the second year, the Fourth Battalion Fire District — made up of the Malverne, Lakeview, East Rockaway, Lynbrook and Rockville Centre Fire Departments — presented $1,000 in col-

lege scholarships to battalion firefighters and children of firefighters who are attending college. The four winners, who each received $250, were recently presented with their scholarship award.

Technology is bridging language barriers

Momina Tahir, a sixth-grader at George Washington School in West Hempstead, is quickly learning English by using Google Translate.

Tahir arrived to the U.S. from Pakistan in November, explained English as a New Language — or ENL — teacher Alyssa Quagliata. Every day, she has taught herself different English words and phrases by using Google Translate on her iPad to interact with her classmates and teachers. Tahir introduced a special feature in the app known as

Phrasebook to Quagliata and her fellow ENL teacher, Erin Holtkamp. This feature allows Tahir to save common phrases, which makes it easier for her to speak with others.

“She has learned how to use technology in a meaningful way, and she’s really honing in on her home language to benefit her while making connections to the English language,” Quagliata said. “We’re very proud of her, and this just shows the resilience in our students here at George Washington.”

Courtesy Brian Grogan

The Fourth Battalion awarded four scholarships. Secretary and Scholarship Chairman Kevin Bien, Lynbrook, far left, Vice-Chairman James Lang, Malverne; Battalion Chairman Joe Mihalich, East Rockaway. The recipients were firefighter Ryan Acevedo, Lynbrook; firefighter Christopher Lucchese, East Rockaway; firefighter Timothy Neckles; and Melissa Coyne, whose husband is a Rockville Centre firefighter. On the far right is past Battalion Chairman Mark Murray, Rockville Centre.

Used garbage truck bought for $14,000

A heated bidding war resulted in a win for the village to generate revenue

By NICOLE FORMISANO

nformisano@liherald.com

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure — at least, that certainly seems the case for Malverne’s 2001 garbage truck. A private company from Rhode Island bought the vehicle for $14,000 after a last-minute bidding frenzy.

“It was kind of exciting that we were able to get that much money for a 23-year-old garbage truck with over 140,000 miles on it,” Kevin Brady, superintendent of the village’s Department of Public Works, said.

The last time the Village of Malverne sold a surplus garbage truck, it went for half that price — but even that was more than they were expecting. When they have unneeded equipment or vehicles, the village values them in the budget at zero, so the sale is entirely profit. They’ve auctioned off former fire chief vehicles and police reserve cars in the past, but the success they found selling this 2001 Mack garbage truck on the auction site Municibid exceeded all expectations.

Though it was old, the garbage truck was anything but trash.

“Just like any old vehicle that you have, it served you well,” Tim Sullivan, mayor of Malverne, said. “It got you from A to B. It was a good investment. But time has weathered the vehicle a little bit. It certainly has been maintained (...) you’d be surprised at what impeccable shape the interior is.”

“According to Kevin Brady, a typical garbage trucks useful life is about 10 years,” he added, “And we’ve stretched this one out through aggressive maintenance and care for over 20 years. So that itself has pro-

vided a great value to the taxpayers of the village.”

The truck was posted with a minimum bid of $5,500, which is about as much the village would have gotten if they sold the truck for scrap parts. It was sitting around $6,500 for days — and then the bidding war hit. The final 10 minutes of the auction were heated, Brady said.

“Just joking around with the guys at work, ‘oh my god, we’re going to get $8,000 for it,’” Brady said. “And they’re like ‘oh no, we’re not.’

“And then all of a sudden it went to $9,000,” he said, “and then $9,100.”

A private company from Rhode Island bid $14,000 with only 4 minutes left in the auction. It’s beyond anything Scott Vasso, who owns a truck repair shop, said

Estate Planning for Pets

In the event of their death, many people wish to provide for the adequate care and feeding of their beloved dog, cat, bird or other pet. Here is an abridged version of New York’s statute authorizing a trust for your pet:

a. The intended use of the principal or income, of a trust for the care of a designated domestic or pet animal, may be enforced by an individual designated for that purpose in the trust instrument. Such trust shall terminate when no living animal is covered by the trust.

b. No portion of the principal or income may be converted to the use of the trustee or to any use other than for the benefit of a covered animal.

c. Upon termination, the trustee shall transfer the unexpended trust property as directed in the trust instrument or, if there are no such directions in the trust

instrument, the property shall pass to the estate of the grantor.

d. A court may reduce the amount of property transferred if it determines that amount substantially exceeds the amount required for the intended use. The amount of the reduction, if any, passes as unexpended trust property pursuant to paragraph (c), above.

e. If no trustee is designated or no designated trustee is willing or able to serve, a court shall appoint a trustee and may make such other orders and determinations as are advisable to carry out the intent of the grantor and the purpose of this section.

If you are interested in setting up a trust for your beloved pet, please make an appointment to see us for a free consultation. Should you have no one to take care of your pet, try PetEstates.com, who will perform this service for you.

he’s seen.

This 2001 Mack garbage truck went for nearly twice the money as the last one Malverne sold, thanks to a frenzied bidding war in the auction’s last 10 minutes.

“He said for a truck that old and that many miles, he’s never seen a truck go for that type of money,” Brady said.

Among the primary motivations for replacing the old truck was updated safety features like rear and side view cameras. Plus, the replacement truck is bigger, making for fewer trips back and forth to the dump, which saves fuel, manpower and vehicle wear-and-tear.

The Village of Malverne also sold a police reserve vehicle, which went for $4,001.

The money from the auctions will help offset the costs of new equipment, and will also go into a reserve fund that helps maintain taxpayer and village assets like buildings and streets.

Courtesy Municibid

Blakeman defends banning trans athletes

By PARKER SCHUG pschug@liherald.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman says he’s protecting athletes in his executive order last week banning some transgender participants in female-centric sports in county facilities. But the action also has raised concerns — and legal questions. Some of which were brought before the Nassau County Legislature on Monday.

We’re confident that as soon as this executive order comes before court, it will be shut down

BoBBy HodGSon director New York Civil Liberties Union

“An individual’s gender is defined as the individual’s biological sex at birth,” Blakeman wrote in his executive order, which demands any sport entities interested in using county facilities to first designate themselves based on male, female or co-ed categories, and then only accept athletes who meet that criteria according to the gender that was originally listed on their birth certificate.

There are nearly 100 facilities in the county that will be impacted, Blakeman told reporters last week.

But Bobby Hodgson — director of LGBTQ rights litigation at New York Civil Liberties Union — says those impacts may not be felt long.

“Were confident that as soon as this executive order comes before court, it will be shut down,” Hodgson said.

The executive order primarily targets athletes born biologically male, but who now identify as female, from participating in teams intended only for girls or women. Blakeman’s order does not require facilities to ban athletes born female and now identifying as male from joining male-centric teams.

Blakeman, however, was quick to add last week, that trans athletes identifying as females aren’t completely banned — they will still be able to participate in co-ed leagues as well as male competitive leagues.

Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz backed Blakeman’s directive, citing safety and integrity.

“This is about protecting our female athletes,” said Goetz, whose district primarily represents Oyster Bay. “This is about making sure they’re not denied opportunities for scholarships, or any type of opportunity that comes with playing sports, recognition and things like that.”

Eva Nordman, an 8-year-old who plays basketball, softball and soccer, said it was also about keeping sports equitable.

“Boys have different chromosomes than girls and that makes them stronger,” Nordman said. “It’s not fair if they

college, whether it’s high school, whether it’s just a community league — and it is an unfair advantage for someone who’s a biological male to compete against a biological female.”

Dawn Foster — a former deputy county attorney and an Oceanside resident — stopped by Mineola on Monday to speak out against Blakeman’s executive order in front of the county legislature on behalf of her family.

“In 2021, when I finally stopped fighting against myself and accepted that I was a woman and needed transition, we felt fortunate to live in Nassau County,” Foster said, calling the executive order unlawful, and condemning what she described as efforts to demonize trans women. “That feeling was shattered last week.

“Blakeman and Goetz press conference was a total of repudiation of the humanity of trans people, implying that we are cheaters, liars and bullies.”

compete against us.”

Protesters gathered outside of Blakeman’s news conference last week led by Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York, chanting, “Trans kids are our kids.” They will get some support from the NYCLU — a notfor=profit legal right group — say they will consider taking Nassau County to court over what Hodgson described as a disregard of state human rights and civil rights laws.

An amendment to the state’s human rights law in 2019 outlawed gender identity and expression discrimination in employment, housing, places of public accommodation, and non-religious schools, according to state officials.

Hodgson is not alone. State attorney general Letitia James condemned Blakeman’s order, calling it “transphobic and

deeply dangerous.”

“In New York, we have laws that protect our beautifully diverse communities from hate and discrimination of any and every kind,” James said, in a statement. “My office is charged with enforcing and upholding those laws, and we stand up to those who violate them and trespass on the rights of marginalized communities. We are reviewing our legal options.”

But Blakeman told reporters last week he knew of no state policy that could threaten his executive order

“This is not precluding anybody from participating in sports,” Blakeman wrote in his executive order. “What it is, is identifying that there are women and girls who spent a tremendous amount of time and effort to excel and compete in their sports that are women’s sports whether it’s the WNBA, whether it’s

Foster already had support from some county legislators like Carrié Solages and Delia DeRiggi-Whitton.

“I have never, in my many years of government service, had a constituent or parent complain to me about this issue,” Solages said, “making it clear that this embarrassing and illegal order is just another attempt by County Executive Blakeman to distract from the many issues that plague Nassau County.”

But Blakeman is not going to let those efforts dissuade him.

“We are finding out, in the last few months, there was a movement for biological males to bully their way into competing in sports or leagues or teams that identify themselves — or advertise themselves — as girls, or female or women’s teams or leagues,” the county executive said last week. “We find that unacceptable. It’s a form of bullying.”

Parker Schug/Herald photos

Victoria Argueta, from left, Sophia Argueta, Eva Nordman, Julia Nordman and Jenna Nordman join Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman at a news conference, telling reporters he’s banning some transgender athletes from participating in female-centric sports in county facilities.

Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York, front, protests outside a Mineola news conference last week where Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced he was banning some transgender athletes from participating in female-centric sports in county facilities.

It’s all coming up roses for Floral Designs

Malverne has welcomed a new small business owner.

Malverne Floral Designs, now led by Jay Harouche, officially opened its doors on Feb. 10 with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The store, now under new ownership, welcomed Chamber of Commerce members, Mayor Tim Sullivan and State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick among its first customers.

The shop, on Hempstead Avenue, sells bouquets of flowers that are tailored to the occasion, and they deliver across Nassau County.

The Chamber is focused on ensuring that small and family-owned businesses remain connected to each other and the community at large, and that the village continues to attract entrepreneurs.

Keeping Malverne businesses tapped into resources is among the foremost goals of co-presidents Maria Casini and Elizabeth Krul, the latter of whom was sworn in last month.

Keith Rossein/Herald photos Mayor Tim Sullivan and State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick stopped and smelled the flowers with new owner of Malverne Floral Designs, Jay Harouche.

Malverne Floral Designs has a new owner. Jay Harouche opened the shop doors on Feb. 10 to the Malverne Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Tim Sullivan and State Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick

LICC says it’s losing its lease, nowhere to go

less neighbors have also pitched in.

The People’s Food Drive has no overhead cost, Hallam said, with every single donation — every cent, every can of soup — going directly to those who need it.

Every year, the food drive culminates in a Move the Food day, on which neighbors, elected officials and students come together to transport the hundreds of boxes from Hallam’s home to the LICC in Freeport.

The first food drive, in 2011, gathered 998 combined food items and dollars. Their most recent, in 2023, amassed 23,556 donations, filling 719 strawberry boxes that stacked from floor to ceiling in Hallam’s living room.

Gthat food insecurity is being misunderstood.

Featured in news stories are homeless people living in the subways, and illegal immigrants who are being given money, he added. But that’s not where donations to the People’s Food Drive or the LICC are going.

“The Nassau County residents that need help are what we call the ‘working poor,’” Hallam said.

od knows where these people are going to go.

RobeR t Hallam organizer People’s Food Drive

The pace has slowed in a major way this year, however. The drive has been underway for more than a month, but only 172 boxes have been filled.

Though the drive often picks up speed toward the end, the results are nowhere near the turnout of past years.

Part of the problem, Hallam said, is

By Jonathan Wolfsohn MBA, CFP, EA, ATA

Check withholding. Since federal taxes operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, taxpayers need to pay most of their tax as they earn income. Taxpayers should check that they’re withholding enough from their pay to cover their taxes owed, especially if their

“So they’re not homeless, living on the streets. They’re people that go to the same schools our kids go to. Most of them are working. A lot of them are seniors on fixed incomes.”

More than 200,000 people — including nearly 70,000 children — across Nassau County are facing food insecurity.

Many families are living paycheck to paycheck and have a difficult time putting food on the table, when they are faced with other financial burdens, Hallam said.

“There needs to be a little bit of a better understanding of who these people are in Nassau County that our food pantry is providing to,” he said. “These are veterans, these are children, these are seniors.”

And those neighbors who need help may soon have nowhere to turn. The

this year’s food drive has filled more than 100 boxes — but it’s a big difference from last year, when they filled more than 700.

LICC has been helping those with food insecurity for 50 years. But at the end of March, its lease expires, and the organization is struggling to find a solution. Most other rent options are just out of reach for the 50-year-old nonprofit,

which has nowhere else to go.

“It would be really, really sad to see that have to stop,” Hallam said. “God knows where these people are going to go.”

The LICC provided nearly 600,000 meals to neighbors last year alone. Food banks across Long Island are facing a strain because of increased need, Hallam said, and they’re reaching a point where they have to turn people away.

The LICC’s search for a solution isn’t over yet, and the nonprofit has until the end of the month to figure something out.

“It’s really getting down to the wire right now,” Hallam said. “We’ve had so many what I’ll call small miracles over the years we’ve been doing this food drive.

“We’re hoping for a real big one here,” he added.

rob Hallam says that he felt a calling to expand the food drive beyond his church. He has collected tens of thousands of meals for people who need help.

Photos courtesy Rob Hallam

County police says goodbye to K-9 Kai

This good dog conducted over 100 bomb sweeps, helped locate missing people

The Nassau County Police Department said goodbye to Kai, a retired K-9, on Jan. 4. Kai was born on March 25, 2011, joined the NCPD in March 2012, and retired in early 2020.

K-9 Kai, alongside handler retired police officer Chris Peters, dedicated his life to the NCPD and its citizens. The hard work, endless training, and dedication of K-9 Kai and Officer Peters lead to numerous apprehensions and arrests of dangerous subjects during his career. In addition to apprehending criminals, K-9 Kai protected the citizens of Nassau County by conducting well over 100 bomb sweeps and aiding in locating missing persons.

When K-9 Kai wasn’t busy with his police responsibilities, K-9 Kai and Officer Peters would visit and conduct demonstrations for various groups and people, including but not limited to school children, Boy & Girl Scouts, Police Explorers, and Community Leaders.

K-9 Kai, to those who didn’t know him, looked as if he was all business at all times. But those who worked closely with K-9 Kai knew he was a mush at heart — except if you tried to take his ‘Chuck It ball’. Those in the unit say they can still hear the whistle of that ball through the air as K-9 Kai gave chase.

The NCPD, along with County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Com -

Kai helped find missing people, arrest criminals, and performed more than 100 bomb sweeps.

missioner Patrick Ryder, expressed their sympathy to Peters and his family. The department is extremely grateful, they said, for the dedicated service K-9 Kai provided to the NCPD and the public. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Photos courtesy Nassau County Police Department

K-9 Kai worked with officer Chris Peters since he was a puppy. He died in January after 8 years of police service and 3 years of retirement.

Segregation is on the rise in Nassau County

of demands. Among them: teach Black history; hire Black faculty; use the word “Black” instead of “Negro” in the school paper; acknowledge Martin Luther King Day as a holiday; change the name of Howard T. Herber Middle School, because it was named after a racist superintendent.

The board agreed to teach Black history and hire more diverse faculty in the future. All other demands were ignored.

So the student activists — and a few parents — had peaceful marches through the community. They boycotted classes. Finally, they had a sit-in. Delany was among the 137 arrested for participating. The police then stripsearched the students. Delany was 15.

“We’re trying to encourage our kids to be civically engaged,” Jeanne D’Esposito, vice president of the Malverne school board, said. “We want our children to know that they have power.

“So if the board isn’t listening to them, we’re giving them the exact opposite message — that they don’t have a voice, that they don’t matter, that they shouldn’t even bother getting involved.”

Malverne today

Brewington became a prominent civil rights lawyer and community activist. Delany worked for the Federal Department of Justice for 25 years in the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

During a high school reunion two years ago, she listened to what her former classmates have done in the last 50 years. One was a nurse. Another was going back to school at 69 years old for a Ph.D., and is running a nonprofit in Texas. Another became a pilot. Seeing classmates realizing their aspirations despite the racism they faced in school was striking, Delany said. She is similarly gratified by the Malverne school

district’s success today.

“There’s a very high population of color there,” she said. “And those kids are excelling, and getting scholarships, and so on.”

Part of the benefit of Malverne isn’t just the education in the classroom — it’s the education from the classmates. Having a diverse school body is not a melting pot, Brewington said — rather, it’s a five-course meal. Appreciating the different tastes and smells and textures is what makes a wonderful culinary experience.

“That’s what our community should be,” Brewington said. “We get the best from each other, and because of that we’re all better.”

But the struggle for equity on Long Island is far from over. A study by the civil rights group ERASE racism found that Nassau County is one of the most racially segregated regions in the country. They also found that “intense segre-

gation” in the county’s school districts had more than doubled between 2005 and 2017.

“Every time we push back,” Brewington said, “Every time we say ‘don’t teach Black history,’ every time we say ‘I don’t want to learn about that,’ every time we see a degradation of other individuals based on their race, religion, background, et cetera, we are creating an anti-learning process.”

More than anything, Delany wants to see the students of Malverne and Lakeview pick up where her generation left off. And most importantly, she said, they must know they can’t do it alone.

“If you don’t know that you can succeed when you come together, organizing and challenging injustice, then you’re less likely to do it again,” she said. “You want those examples, you want to understand that you can succeed, you want to understand what happened in your own community.

“You need to know what came before in order to understand what you should carry forward and what you need to change.”

It seems, though, that Malverne and Lakeview students are carrying that torch. The student-led project “What’s

In A Name?” saw Lindner Place — named for Ku Klux Klan leader Paul Lindner — renamed Acorn Way. School administration is partnering with the NAACP and the Lakeview Civic Association to plan a celebration for the 60th anniversary of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. marching down Woodfield Road.

“We’ve been fortunate enough through the latter part of the 20th century into the 21st century to see change,” Brewington said. “But there is no time to rest, because people died so that we might be able to advocate and make the change.

“That’s who we stand on — we stand on their shoulders.”

Continued from page 1

Photos courtesy Robin Delany robin delany was arrested for participating in a sit-in, and then stripsearched by police. She was 15.

Courtesy Malverne Historical Society

the malverne, Lakeview and Lynbrook communities were divided over the court-ordered desegregation. the protests against it, like this one in front of malverne High School, were ‘vitriolic,’ frederick Brewington said. But integration ultimately exposed him and his classmates to new food, music and friends that they wouldn’t have known otherwise.

delany hopes young people today know the power of organizing against injustice.

Courtesy Frederick Brewington frederick Brewington was 9 when schools first integrated. today, he is a prominent civil rights lawyer.

STEPPING OUT

Her theatre life

Tony Award nominee Sheryl Kaller directs Off-Broadway’s ‘The White Chip,’ a play about alcoholism and recovery

By Iris Wiener

When Valley Stream native Sheryl Kaller was 12, she knew she wanted to be a director. It was 1973. She went to a Sunday matinee of “Pippin,” and Ben Vereen sang “Magic to Do,” immediately clinching her dream.

“I always knew theatre was the only place where we can authentically use our imaginations,” she says. “I had the Spidey sense of knowing that it was a collaborative art.”

It was the start to a journey that would lead her to a Tony nomination as she directed Broadway (“Next Fall,” “Mothers and Sons”) and Off-Broadway plays, including “The White Chip,” which follows a theatre director who finds himself spinning out of control with an addiction to alcohol. The play, exploring his journey to recovery, runs through March 9, at MCC Theater.

“Broadway and Off-Broadway always felt like my community,” Kaller says. “My parents were very vigilant about getting me in to see theatre all the time. It informed my exposure to the art and my love of New York City.”

As Kaller grew up in the Green Acres community of Valley Stream, she performed in community theatre with her mother, while her father — who repaired car seat covers for a living — would use his knowledge of sewing to design costumes for the shows. (“They were horrible actually,” Kaller says, laughing at the fond memories.)

In her senior year at Valley Stream South High School, Kaller got her first taste of directing. After landing the role of Rosie in “Bye Bye Birdie,” she realized a big number — “The Telephone Hour” — could use some major help.

“I said to the director, who was great, ‘With all due respect, may I redo (the number)?’ So I redid the whole ‘Telephone Hour.’ That’s when I knew I was much better at directing than acting, and it led me to go to Emerson College — as a director, not as an actor.”

In 2019, Kaller directed “The White Chip” at OffBroadway’s 59E59 with the support of acclaimed playwright Terrence McNally, who, much like the play’s narrator, was

• Now through March 9

• Robert W. Wilson MCC Theater Space, 511 W. 52nd St., Manhattan

• Tickets available at WhiteChipPlay.com

a recovered alcoholic. When McNally died during the pandemic, Kaller knew she had to bring the play back to the New York theatre community.

“In the world of Covid and in the world of losing community, we felt it was really important to bring it back because ‘The White Chip’ is a hopeful sobriety story, and a serio-comedy. There’s a lot of fun things in it,” she says of the play, which found its new home at the MCC Theater. “We are building community and doing service with this show, while entertaining at the same time.”

According to Kaller, after the pandemic, alcoholism in women doubled, while in men it was up a third.

“AA and addiction meetings were all on Zoom, and everybody kind of fractured,” she says. “This is a story that makes you laugh and cry. It also talks about how there’s no shame in being an addict. Shame touches everybody’s lives in one way or another.”

In deciding to take the piece on again, it didn’t hurt that Tony Award winner Annaleigh Ashford was at the show’s helm as producer.

“She’s very magical,” says Kaller of Ashford, who recently starred in Broadway’s “Sweeney Todd” opposite Josh Groban.

“The White Chip” has such an important message that it also boasts celebrity supporters and producers Jason Biggs, John Larroquette, Edie Falco and Hank Azaria. The pandemic even inspired playwright Sean Daniels to create The Recovery Project, an initiative working to heal the stigma of addiction and recovery through the development of new plays, theatre education programs, and outreach.

“All of our fancy producers are sober people,” says Kaller, of the importance of the play and the initiative. “Every producer who came on board financially was incredibly gracious. They don’t have the best deal in the world because a lot of the money is going into The Recovery Project. If you’re an actor, a designer, in the PR department, if you’re cleaning the toilets, you need resources. At all of our performances so far, at least one person has asked us for help. We have a QR code that gives them resources whether or not they have health insurance.”

The play continues to remind Kaller of the importance of community, a lesson that harkens back to her roots on Long Island.

“One thousand Long Islanders showed up to my dad’s funeral,” she recalls. “I grew up in such a beautiful community there. My heart will always be on the ‘Guyland.’ I got the wonderful suburban, great education at Valley Stream South, and yet I got to go into the city all the time. But I will always remember all of these people who showed up for my family.

“I wish Long Islanders would start coming back to New York theatre because we really do build a lot of beautiful community in the city and it’s worth it. It is apparent with ‘The White Chip’ and with so much more.”

Tusk

Tusk goes their own way, with their dynamic tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Since forming in 2008, Tusk has prided themselves on being the ultimate tribute to the ‘70s supergroup. No fancy tricks, no gimmicks, just five musicians recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac to perfection with note-fornote renditions. Seasoned musicians who go back some 25 years, their attention to detail, talent and reverence of their subjects has been critically acclaimed, resulting in their accolades as the premiere purveyors of ‘Mac. Time, trust, and close friendship have cultivated an intimate familiarity with each other’s musical nuances, shaping every performance with precision. More than a band, they are a family. Made up of Kathy Phillips (as Stevie Nicks on vocals), Scott McDonald (as Lindsey Buckingham, guitar and vocals), Kim Williams (as Christine McVie, keys and vocals), Randy Artiglere (as John McVie, bass) and Tom Nelson (as Mick Fleetwood on drums) the five-piece band transports you back to the group’s glory days.

Friday, March 1, 8 p.m. $63, $53, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 7676444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

The Irish Tenors

These gents will warm your soul with the beauty of Irish music. The Irish Tenors have been the acknowledged Celtic music kings since bursting upon the scene during a 1998 television special. With 10 bestselling albums to their credit, they share company with the likes of The Three Tenors and Andrea Bocelli as the biggest money makers PBS has presented. They’ve since become a part of the Irish movement in America, with plenty of talented Irish acts coming after them. They have stood the test of time — audiences of all ages love the Irish Tenors. Now comprised of classically trained tenor Anthony Kearns, doctor-turned-vocalist Ronan Tynan, and tenor Declan Kelly, their repertoire is wide-ranging and they also introduce — or reintroduce — their audiences to Ireland’s exquisite jigs, reels and ballads.

Friday, March 1, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $70. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com,TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Crystal Dickinson, Joe Tapper, and Jason Tam star in playwright Sean Daniels’ autobiographical comedy, a wry theatrical journey of recovery.

Photos by Jenny Anderson

Sheryl Kaller in rehearsal.

THE Your Neighborhood

March 8

Janeane Garofalo

The comedianactress, who reigns as the queen of the alt-comedy scene, is eager to speak her mind on her current stand-up tour, when she visits the Landmark stage, Friday, March 8, 8 p.m.

Considered by many as an American institution since she first burst on the scene in 1992, the outspoken activist has plenty to say, in her own inimitable comedic style. Known for her incisive, cynical sense of humor, the SNL alum has branched out into many memorable film and TV roles, including “The Truth About Cats and Dogs,” “Wet Hot American Summer,” “Ratatouille,” “Steal This Movie,” “Reality Bites,” “Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion,” “Mystery Men,” “The Ten” and “The Cable Guy,” along with including the final season of NBC’s “The West Wing.”

Garofalo’s informed opinions and unflinching honesty on topics ranging from everyday life to pop culture inspire laughs and strikes a chord with audiences everywhere. Often a lightening rod for controversy, Garofalo finds a way to get her point across with her trademark sense of humor. Known and respected worldwide, Garofalo was also instrumental in the successful launching of the first liberal radio network, Air America Radio, where she hosted her own talk show, “The Majority Report.” A lightning rod for controversy, her opinions and candor have inspired laughs, as well as striking a chord with the left, right and everyone in between. $33, $28. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at LandmarkOnMainStreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Family theater

Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s stories, this clever adaptation puts the audience front and center, literally, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, March 1, 10:15 a.m. and noon, Saturday, March 2, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, March 5-7, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Kids become cast members, singing dancing, and acting onstage alongside the professional cast.

One of our most interactive shows at LICM Theater, this production received rave reviews in its prior run. Going beyond the traditional telling of the Oz stories, “Journey to Oz” uses personal journal entries and historic newspaper headlines to bring the history of author L. Frank Baum and illustrator W.W. Denslow to life. Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion take the audience with them on this lively, playful trip down the yellow brick road. $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, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways. Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion.

Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, first editions and other historic memorabilia.

The “Upstairs, Downstairs” approach to the life of a country house brings to life not only the storied conspicuous consumption for which the Gilded Age was infamous, but also the real lives of these many individuals who maintained the palatial estates where that lifestyle was enjoyed.

On view through March 10 Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Cabin Fever Party

Dance away the winter blues with music by Rockabilly Steve and BR3, Friday March 1, 8-11 p.m., at Lakeview Fire Hall. Proceeds benefit the Lakeview Civic Association. $7. The event is BYOB. 891 Woodfield Road, West Hempstead.

Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Small business owners looking to learn new tips, develop their businesses, or just get to know fellow entrepreneurs can join the Malverne Chamber of Commerce, Friday March 1

The specific time and location will be updated on the website, MalverneChamberOfCommerce. com.

Nellie McKay performs

The effervescent multiinstrumentalist singer-songwriter returns to My Father’s Place with music from her recently released album, “Hey Guys, Watch This,”

Friday, March 1, 8 p.m. Recorded in Charleston, West Virginia with The Carpenter Ants and a roving retinue of musical compadres, her album traces the haunted sounds of Appalachia to a renaissance of revelry.

Doors open at 6 p.m., concert is at 8 p.m. 221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. For tickets/ information, visit MFPProductions. com or call (516) 580-0887.

Irish soda bread

Happy St. Patricks Day! In celebration, come make a loaf of Priscilla’s Irish Soda Bread, or take the materials to make at home, at West Hempstead Public Library, Monday, March 11, 7-8:30 p.m. Open to everyone over 13. Attendees should provide a $3 check payable to the WHPL. 500 Hempstead Ave. Register in advance at WHPL.org, as space is limited.

Village of Malverne Meeting

Keep up to date with the goings-on in Malverne at the monthly meeting with Mayor Tim Sullivan and the Board, Wednesday, March 16, 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall. 99 Church St., in Malverne.

Rainbow Science

Families can celebrate St. Patricks Day with green (and all colors of the rainbow) science experiments, at Hempstead Lake State Park’s Environmental Education and Resiliency Center, Sunday, March 17, 1 p.m. 880 Lake Drive, West Hempstead. $4 per child. Register at tinyurl. com/RainbowScienceWH.

Having an event?

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art, Saturday, March 2 and 9, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.

Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Bridge Club

Learn or play the classic card game Bridge at Malverne Public Library, every Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.. All skill levels are welcome to attend. 61 St. Thomas Place.

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.

Forest Bathing

Take a meditative Forest Bathing walk, led by certified guide Linda Lombardo, Sunday, March 10, 2-4 p.m. Based on the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku, a wellness practice developed in the 1980s, the walk, on the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim, inspires mindful connections with the natural elements of the woods for a range of healthful benefits. $40, $35. Registration required. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Bunny Hop

Walk through the village to pick up eggs and goodies at this year’s Bunny Hop in Malverne, Friday, March 30, 9:30 a.m. The colorful annual event is perfect for kids and the whole family. It features 1000 eggs, balloon animals, raffles, and even the Easter Bunny. Bring your bags to the gazebo at 40 Church St. The raffle drawing is at 11:30 a.m. at Malverne Cinemas. Venmo @Maria-Casini $2 per entry, or 6 entries for $5.

Driver Education class

Empire Safety Council Accident Prevention cass sign-up is in progress at Malverne Public Library. The class meets Saturday, March 2,10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join instructor,Jerry Greenhaus for this informative and interesting program for all ages. The goal is to refresh your driving knowledge and offer safe driving tips. You may also be eligible to reduce points on your driving record after completing this course, and you can receive a minimum 10% reduction on your auto liability/collision insurance premiums for three years.

Pay by separate check or money order, including couples at registration. $35. Bring your up-to-date New York State Driver’s License to the class. Sign up early to obtain. your spot. The parking lot fills quickly; park on surrounding streets in legal spots only. 61 St. Thomas Place. Visit MalverneLibrary.org for more information.

Barks and Brews

Visit Broadway Tavern for “Barks and Brews,” Sundays, noon to 2 p.m. Enjoy food, drinks and adorable pups. Everyone is encouraged to bring their dogs to the event, which has an open yard, water and treats waiting for their furry friends. 8 Broadway, in Malverne.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF VILLAGE TREASURER’S SALE FOR TAX LIENS ON REAL PROPERTY IN THE INC. VILLAGE OF MALVERNE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

That pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Real Property Tax Law and the Village Law of the State of New York and pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Malverne, Nassau County, New York adopted at a meeting held on the 7th day of February, 2024 the undersigned as Treasurer of said Village will sell at public auction in the manner prescribed by law, on the 14th day of March, 2024 at 11:00 o’clock in the forenoon of that day and on succeeding days, in the Courtroom of the Village Hall, 99 Church Street, Malverne, New York, as much of each of the following parcels of real estate upon which Village taxes remain unpaid as will be sufficient to discharge the taxes, interest and charges thereon which may be due at the time of such sale.

Such real estate will be sold subject to any unpaid assessment thereon levied by said Village and any unpaid lien purchased and held by said Village, and all liens on property included in this sale and sold subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act.

Each purchaser at such tax sale shall pay the amount of his/her bid to the Village Treasurer within ten (10) days after the sale, and upon such payment the Treasurer shall give to the purchaser a certificate in writing describing the real property purchase and the sum paid therefore.

THE NAME(S) OF THE OWNER(S) SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAME(S) OF THE PERSON(S) OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISMENT. SUCH NAME(S) HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2023/2024 ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The following is a list of lots, pieces, and parcels of real estate to be sold and the total amount of taxes, interest, and charges thereon.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF VILLAGE TREASURER’S SALE FOR TAX LIENS ON REAL PROPERTY IN THE INC. VILLAGE OF MALVERNE, NY

FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024

Name/Address Sec Blk Lot A/V Tax Due Interest

024 233

Inc

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT

DATED AS OF DECEMBER

1, 2006, GSAMP TRUST 2006-HE8, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-HE8, V. MARITA ARRINGTON, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated March 20, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT

DATED AS OF DECEMBER

1, 2006, GSAMP TRUST 2006-HE8, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-HE8 is the Plaintiff and MARITA ARRINGTON, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 12, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 49 CAROL ST, WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY 11552: Section 35, Block 538, Lot 30 & 45:

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

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 002877/2013. George Esernio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

144722

LEGAL NOTICE SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICESUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAUMORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, -againstROBERTA WADE, if she be living and if she be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the complaint; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS LLC; BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION; SLOMIN’S, INC.; ETR, INC. DBA EMPIRE TAX REDUCTIONS; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10,” said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, intended to be possible tenants or occupants of the premises, or corporations, persons, or other entities having or claiming a lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants. Index No.: 604176/2019 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named Defendants-YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated January 24, 2024.

NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME - If you do

not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Jeffrey A. Goodstein, A.J.S.C. Dated: January 24, 2024 Filed: January 25, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 247 Coventry Road South, West Hempstead, NY 11552. Dated: November 13, 2023 Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Monica G. Christie, Esq., 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022 P: (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954)343-6982.

144892

LEGAL NOTICE

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Nassau Action to Foreclose a Mortgage Index #: 602511/2020

Nationstar Mortgage LLC

D/B/A Mr. Cooper Plaintiff, vs Unknown Heirs Of Daniel Gause If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of

Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, Unknown Heirs Of Lena N. Gause, Who Was Heir To The Estate Of Daniel Gause If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, Fannie Mae Gause As Heir To The Estate Of Lena N. Gause, Who Was Heir To The Estate Of Daniel Gause If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of

February 16

Public Notices

29,

Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, Antoinette Kirkland As Heir To The Estate Of Lena N. Gause, Who Was Heir To The Estate Of Daniel Gause And As Appointed Guardian Of Anne D. Kirkland As Heir To The Estate Of Lena N. Gause, Who Was Heir To The Estate Of Daniel Gause, Teachers Federal Credit Union, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America Acting Through The IRS, ETR Inc D/B/A Empire Tax Reductions, Maidenbaum Property Tax Reduction Group LLC, John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s).

Mortgaged Premises: 468

Barbara Lane West Hempstead, NY 11552

To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Fannie Mae Gause,

Defendant In this Action.

The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-Fifth day of January, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated January 30, 2007, executed by Daniel Gause (who died on February 3, 2018, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) to secure the sum of $398,610.00.

The Mortgage was recorded at Book 31601, Page 433 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on February 28, 2007.

The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 20, 2014 and recorded on May 23, 2014, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M 39706, Page 940. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Daniel Gause on October 6, 2017 and recorded October 24, 2017 in Book 42460, Page 684 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk; The property in question is described as follows: 468

BARBARA LANE, WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY 11552

HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY.

YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The state encourages you to

become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 or visit the department’s website at WWW.DFS.NY.GOV. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW.

FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303

NOTICE NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage

company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU

MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: January 30, 2024 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221

The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose.

79509

144813

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the MALVERNE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on

Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the MALVERNE VILLAGE HALL, 99 Church Street, Malverne, New York 11565 and will hear the following cases at 7:00 PM: Solomon Policar 15 Winfield Pl.: Residential “C” District Building Permit Application #2023-0836

Proposes to demolish existing roof / ceiling structure and second floor walls off cape style dwelling to construct new 1205 sq. ft. second story addition over existing first floor, 185 sq. ft. sundeck over existing garage, and new front portico. All interested parties should appear at the above time and place.

BY ORDER OF THE MALVERNE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF MALVERNE Jill Valli, Village Clerk Dated: February 16, 2024 145118

READ THEM

Coalition launched to support local journalism

STAFF REPORT

A statewide group of local news organizations — comprising of more than 100 newspapers across New York — have launched The Empire State Local News Coalition, a joint advocacy effort to advance a legislative package intended to deliver long-term sustainability to the sector.

The coalition launches at a watershed moment for the journalism industry as well as democracy. More than 3,000 newspapers have shuttered across the country since 2005, resulting in thousands of layoffs and countless communities losing essential platforms for sharing their stories.

In New York state alone, newspapers have declined 40 percent between 2004 and 2019. Since then, the number of journalists has halved, and there has been a 60 percent decrease in overall circulation.

There is a growing number of communities with little to no access to local newspaper coverage. More than a dozen New York counties are down to just one newspaper, and Orleans County in Western New York is the first with no local newspaper at all.

The decline of local journalism is a threat to the health of our democracy, as research from the Democracy Fund shows there is a direct correlation between the breadth of local media coverage and levels of civic engagement — an especially significant factor in an election year.

If newspapers continue to shutter, communities across the state risk being effectively disenfranchised, losing the ability to shape policy conversations, and hold local officials accountable.

“The Empire State Local News Coalition is dedicated to advancing a legislative package with bipartisan support aimed at providing a lifeline to newspapers across the state,” said founding member Zachary Richner — director of Richner Communications, the parent company of Herald Community Newspapers — in a release. “All New Yorkers deserve to have their voices heard, and hometown newspapers are key to that mission.

“We urge government officials and local stakeholders to rally behind us, safeguarding democracy, and bolstering the future of local journalism in New York.”

The Empire State coalition is championing what it describes as a robust legislative package intended to ensure local papers survive through the 21st century and beyond. Key priorities include:

• The Local Journalism Sustainability Act (S.625B, A.2958C) — Sponsored by state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, the bill would provide tax credits to local news outlets for the employment of local journalists, while providing job stability and paving the way for more hiring opportunities, and an expanded workforce in the future.

• Incentivizing small businesses to advertise in local media — This win-win proposal, according to organizers, would encourage local businesses to advertise in local media, driving revenue for hometown papers, while connecting businesses with their customers.

“Democracy places a responsibility on citizens to be informed so they can effectively participate in the electoral process, and in local government,” said Bill Shumway, editor and publisher of North Country This Week in Potsdam, in a release. “A trusted local news source is essential for that to happen. Healthy communities need an unbiased news organization to connect, enrich and inform citizens.”

“The bottom line is that this proposed legislation would be a major game changer,” said Mark Vinciguerra, president of Capital Region Independent Media out of Clifton Park. “We would be able to increase the number and type of journalists we have on staff. It would allow us to cover more beats, do more video reporting, investigative reporting, and expand our ‘Good News’ initiative we have started.”

A 2022 analysis found more than 350 newsrooms across the state would benefit from the local journalism payroll tax credit. This includes 53 newsrooms in New York City, with 21 of them being ethnic media outlets.

To learn more about the efforts, visit SaveNYLocalNews.com.

Will

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

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

MEDICAL SECRETARY FT: Far Rockaway. Front Desk, Experienced, Insurance Verification, Patient Collections, Computer Skills. Bi-lingual Spanish/ English. Starting $17-$18/Hr. Send Resume: freyecare220@gmail.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

914-720-4426 or Email joyceprince990@gmail.com

Open Houses

HEWLETT 1390 BROADWAY #117, OPEN HOUSE BY APPT, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Beautiful JR 4 Coop Apt in Luxurious Hewlett Townhouse. Huge LR & DR, Renov Kit w/ Wood Cab/Quartz Counters/ Stainless St Appl.Encl Terrace Overlooking Garden Can Be Rm. Spac BR w/ En Suite Bath. W/D in Apt. 24 Hr Drmn, Elevator, Valet Pkg, Priv Storage. Redone IG Comm Pool. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$359,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

Huge Skylit Recreation Rm, BR, Bth & W/D. Beautifully Lanscaped Oversized

W/ Trex Deck for Entertaining. Multi Car Drvewy...$899,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 515-238-4299

HEWLETT: 2/28, 2-3:30, 1267 Peninsula Blvd, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW

Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #213,.! Move Right Into This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Spacious Corner Unit. Updtd Gran/Wood Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Garage Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$649,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT: 1267 Peninsula Blvd, Open House By Appt, NEW! 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299

LAWRENCE 3/3, 12-1:30, 15 Auerbach Lane,, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! Amazing Opportunity to Turn This 3/4 BR, 3.5 Bth Colonial Into Your Dream Home! 3700 Sq Ft With Spacious Rms Perfect for Entertaining.Det 1.5 Garage. SD#15.Great Location Near All. You Don't Want to Miss This!...$1,599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

Rooms Wanted

RESPONSIBLE PERSON LOOKING for Room to Rent in either Uniondale, Freeport, Hempstead or Baldwin. Non-Smoker, Reliable, Quiet and Very Nice . Please Call/ Text 929-620-9363

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO

Our floor is expanding

Q. Last fall we had the walls removed between our living room, dining room and kitchen. We had a new kitchen installed with an island plus a wall of cabinets. Now the new flooring is rising at the seams, everywhere. We have a heated floor, and the flooring was specially chosen because it clicks together and “floats.” We were told that with the floor being able to move, it would be better with the heated floor. What caused this, and what can we do?

A. Your floor is expanding, and the ridges at the seams are rising, because the floor has nowhere else to expand to. This problem is common, and was caused by the floor being limited from expanding because the cabinets and island, along with heavy furniture placed over the finished floor, keep the floor from expanding when the heat is on. Wetting the floor to clean it also causes expansion, and should be limited or not done with water at all.

Solving this problem is easier said than done. Basically, anywhere the floor is unable to move defeats the purpose, and only by freeing up the floor will the problem work itself out. There’s a simple wall molding that our ancestors used that seems to be generally forgotten. Even though I include this detail in most of the drawings I prepare, I rarely see this last little strip of molding being installed. What the molding does is act like a gap cover, since properly installed flooring has a quarter- to halfinch gap at the edges of the floor, including around a fixed island and around the room’s perimeter. The whole perimeter will need to be cut so the trim molding will need to be added, unless the vertical trim board has been installed with a space, in which case the flooring has to be able to float (slide back and forth) under the vertical wallboard trim.

Our ancestors were very observant of nature, and skilled finish carpenters passed along their knowledge of the way materials behave. I worked for a finish carpenter while in high school, and learned that molding and trim weren’t just a finishing touch, but also a necessity to hide the places where materials needed room to expand and contract, at ceilings, floors, stairs and doors. Miracle materials have come along since then that were supposed to change the industry, like plastic moldings that are more temperature stable, but nature never disappoints. Natural or not, materials all have to work together, whether it’s the way they react to moisture, sunlight, heat or cold.

You’re going to need to get the contractor to organize the flooring installer and the finish carpenter to coordinate cutting the floor, and either install the shoe molding or space the vertical trim baseboard so the floor moves and adjusts underneath, even at the island and kitchen cabinet bases. Hopefully, the flooring was installed over a moisture-proof expansion membrane. Then enjoy your floor.

PUBLIC NOTICE WE, Edward & Lisa

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!

Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

FINDS UNDER $100

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid.

SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

Finds Under $100

CLARINET: AMATI ACL201 VGC, used very little by an adult. $99. (516) 486-2363

KEGERATOR FOR HOME. excellent condition, black, w24" x h37", $99. Oceanside area. 516-382-8315.

REFRIGERATOR: 10.0 CU. ft. Avanti, Model FF1OB0W, Works Fantastic.$100. 516-236-1961

VINTAGE BUESCHER ALTO Sax with case, playable. $95. (516) 486-2363

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring

SWITCH TO DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport pack included for a limited time! Hurry, call for details: 1-866-782-4069

Electricians

E-Z 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.

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

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/ Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

Plumbing

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

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV SPORTS PACK – 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-514-3044

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-598-5898

VIAGRA

Reflections on the special election

It isn’t often that a congressional race becomes the center of national attention. But that was the case in the campaign between Tom Suozzi and Mazi Pilip to succeed the disgraced George Santos in the 3rd Congressional District.

In less than 12 months in office, Santos became a joke — a very sick joke. After the House of Representatives voted to expel him in December, Gov. Kathy Hochul set a special election for Feb. 13.

pETER KInG

Under state election law, candidates in a special election are selected by party leaders. Not surprisingly, Democrats selected Tom Suozzi, a seasoned veteran of the political wars who had represented the district in Congress for three terms before giving up his seat to make an unsuccessful gubernatorial primary run against Hochul in 2022.

Nassau GOP Chairman Joe Cairo set up a selection committee (that I was part of) that interviewed 22 potential candidates, and overwhelmingly recommended Pilip. Not wanting to repeat the Santos calamity, Cairo had Pilip vetted by several firms, and she passed with flying colors.

Ordinarily it would be a gamble for a relative newcomer who had served barely one term in the County Legislature to run against a veteran like Suozzi, but Pilip personified the American dream. She’d escaped from Ethiopia to Israel with her family when she was 12, and served in an elite parachute unit in the Israel Defense Forces. She was highly educated, married a Ukrainian cardiologist, moved to the United States and raised seven children in Great Neck. She was the first Republican ever re-elected in the 10th Legislative District.

IPilip was the new running against the old. She was coming off a solid victory against the odds in a Democratic district, while Suozzi had lost badly to Hochul in the primary. Pilip was the legal immigrant who supported strong border security, challenging the candidate of the party that had allowed more than 8 million illegal migrants into the country, many of whom were overwhelming New York City and the parts of Queens that fall in the 3rd District. She was the candidate who was endorsed by the Border Patrol Agents’ union, while Suozzi had recently boasted of throwing Immigration and Customs Enforcement out of Nassau County when he was county executive. Pilip, a

trained soldier, supported strong defense at a time when Israel was at war with Hamas, Russia had invaded Ukraine and China was threatening Taiwan.

Though the Democrats had a significant registration edge over Republicans, 39 percent to 28 percent, President Biden’s popularity was at record lows, and Suozzi was on record saying he supported Biden “100 percent.”

heard there was real concern in the Suozzi camp right up to Election Day.

Pilip campaigned tirelessly, and was making strong inroads. Suozzi countered by separating himself from prevailing Democratic positions on immigration, border security and support for police and didn’t seek Biden’s endorsement.

In the campaign’s closing days, every published poll had the race within the margin of error. A Republican poll had Pilip up by 5 points. Suozzi never got above 50 percent in any poll, a bad sign for a virtual incumbent. Democratic sources and some friendly reporters told me there was real concern in the Suozzi camp right up to Election Day. When the numbers were in, though, Suozzi won, 54 percent to 46 percent.

It’s still early, but my preliminary thoughts are that:

■ The snowstorm on Election Day hurt Republicans, but not enough to make the

A journey of the heart

February is American Heart Month, and this is a story about my heart — literally and figuratively. It’s the reason I am where I am today.

I was born with a significant heart defect called dextrocardia, as well as a ventricular septal defect. Basically, my heart was on the wrong side of my chest cavity and inverted — and it had a hole in it.

sETH I. KosLoW

When I was 3 months old, my doctors told my parents that I needed openheart surgery to close the hole. At the time, however, my mother was pregnant with my sister. My parents decided to wait until my sister was born before I underwent surgery. But somehow, for some reason, my heart decided that it had to be whole, and the hole I was born with began to close. My heart could stay as it was — imperfect and misplaced, but untouched.

Growing up, I found that I was doing a lot of things half-heartedly, so to speak. Schoolwork wasn’t heartening, and there were few things that excited me. I dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but I couldn’t muster up the resolve to pursue that dream — LSATs, law school, internships, thousands of dollars in loans, six more semesters of school, and years of building a professional profile.

Deterred by these seemingly insurmountable obstacles, I remained listless through my early 20s. For a few years after college, I worked in sales. I was good at it, but my heart was definitely in a different place.

That is, until it wasn’t.

went more than a dozen cardioversions to restore the heart’s regular rhythm, and tried various cocktails of medications, all to no avail.

A fter openheart surgery, I decided there was nothing I couldn’t make it through.

In my early 20s, I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, or AFib, also known as an irregular heartbeat. It’s fairly common among senior citizens, but as a 20-something in college, I was now a member of a not-so-enviable exclusive club. Over the next several years, I battled my irregular heartbeats, under-

Eventually I met a cardiologist who specialized in adults with congenital heart defects — adults like me. He informed my family and me that the hole in my heart had reopened, and that it was substantially larger than it was when I was a child. This was causing my irregular heartbeat, and it would at last need to be closed. At age 25, because of the placement of my heart, I was about to undergo a potentially first-of-its-kind open-heart surgery.

On March 15, 2007, after five hours of surgery, I awoke with a heart that was beating normally for the first time in almost five years. Making it through that operation sparked something in my soul. Instead of whining about what I had to do to get to where I wanted to be, I decided to ball my fists up, dig in and do it. After all, I had just made it through open-heart surgery. Was there

difference.

■ Suozzi effectively managed to separate himself in the eyes of the voters from the sins of his party on immigration and support for the police.

■ Democratic congressional campaign committees provided extensive financial support to Suozzi early on.

■ Though Pilip actually garnered a higher percentage of votes against Suozzi than former President Donald Trump did against Biden in 2020, she couldn’t overcome the built-in Democratic registration edge.

■ Cairo and the Nassau Republican organization worked hard and effectively, but Pilip didn’t receive financial support from national Republicans comparable to what Suozzi received from Democrats.

■ Pilip was handicapped by having to campaign against the backdrop of the antics of congressional Republicans like Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Green, who come across as a gang that can’t shoot straight.

Suozzi won. No complaints. No excuses. But Pilip ran an excellent and courageous campaign, and has an excellent political future.

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

anything I couldn’t make it through? I finally sat for the LSAT and got myself into law school.

That’s the attitude that’s gotten me to where I am today. When I was burning the candle at both ends, cramming for law school exams and eventually the bar exams, I would remind myself that I was getting stronger. When I was struggling to build my own law practice while juggling my responsibilities as a husband and father, I would remind myself of all that my heart could handle.

Naturally, when I saw an opportunity to run for office, a chance to represent and fight for all the communities our local government has left behind, I knew that I could take the heartburn of an arduous campaign, and that I could win over hearts and minds. That’s the mentality that I bring to my law practice, and to my work with my fellow legislators.

The arc of my life’s journey is proof that we are all stronger than we know — that we are all more capable than we can comprehend.

Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.

HeraLd editoriaL

Let’s be sure we don’t relive some of our history

Black History Month is a chance for us to celebrate the many contributions African-Americans have made to the country. They’ve done this despite discrimination and oppression — something even Long Island, in the past, was not immune to.

For example, when we think of slavery, we think of the Deep South before the Civil War. In fact, slavery existed in New York until 1827, and the state had more enslaved people than all the New England states combined, many of them on Long Island.

At the start of the American revolution, there were roughly 10,000 enslaved Black Americans living on Long Island — nearly half of the state’s total enslaved population. While they were allowed more mobility and financial opportunities than their counterparts in the South, the claim that slavery wasn’t as bad in the North is largely inaccurate.

Throughout the 1700s, New York lawmakers created the Black Codes, which historian and author richard Moss — in his book, “Slavery on Long Island” — claimed were “the harshest criminal laws and penalties enacted by northern colonists.” Punishments for striking a white person included two weeks’ imprisonment and corporal punish-

Letters

Leave trans kids alone

To the Editor:

ment.

Enslaved people were forbidden from gathering in groups of more than three, and prevented from owning property. Children born to enslaved mothers were automatically enslaved at birth. And testimony by enslaved people was inadmissible in court.

One common practice at the time on Long Island and New York was shipping unruly African-Americans to the Caribbean slave colonies. Conditions on islands such as Barbados and Jamaica were particularly brutal, with less than a third of slaves surviving on some plantations.

Even after slavery ended in New York, discrimination did not. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the number of AfricanAmericans in the Town of Oyster Bay dwindled from roughly 17 percent to less than a half-percent as racist real estate practices and federal policies prioritized homeownership for whites while driving Black Americans — and other minorities — from the area through a mix of intimidation, legislation, and rising property rates.

When Levittown — long touted as the model of the modern American suburb — was created in 1947, non-whites were expressly forbidden from owning any of the 17,400 new homes, with the deeds

Bruce Blakeman couldn’t care less about girls’ sports.

By signing an executive order to ban teams that allow transgender girls and women from playing in Nassau County athletic facilities last week, Blakeman continued to distract from his shirking of responsibilities as Nassau County Executive.

Since his marginal win over Laura Curran in 2021, after campaigning on the promise of $128 million in tax cuts, Blakeman has rejected every cut in annual budget proposals.

In 2022, amid the highest rates of new Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations in the county, he issued a series of orders against mask mandates in schools.

What has he been doing instead in his capacity as executive? Attacking the participation of the county’s small percentage of transgender girls and women in athletics, a right that is supported by experts in the field, including the National Women’s Law Center. Blakeman’s order does not mention transgender boys and men — instead he hides his under-researched and dangerous order behind a thin veil of Victorian-era patriarchal values and personal opinion.

“Part of good government is listening to your constituents,” Blakeman said in a recent interview. Listen to this constituent, Bruce: Do your job, and leave trans kids alone.

CArTEr ALLEN Garden City

themselves preventing ownership by “any person other than members of the Caucasian race,” according to a 2011 research paper by Baruch College Sociology professor robert Courtney Smith. robert Moses, the urban planner and public official who is best known today for creating Jones Beach State Park and the state parkway system, designed Long Island parkways to make them impassable for buses, frequently the only mode of transportation for non-white and lowincome families. While some latter-day historians question the validity of this claim, Moses was also known to have fought against integrating public swimming pools in the 1920s.

African-Americans have continuously defied the odds and obstacles set against them — whether it be Jackie robinson playing Major League Baseball, or mathematicians Creola Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson helping NASA put men on the moon. recognizing those contributions — and learning from our mistakes of the past can open the door for even greater accomplishments in the future, as we look to remove more barriers.

The late Maya Angelou once said that “history, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived. But if faced with courage, need not be lived again.”

Kreiss’s column

last week, “It’s Library Lovers Month — borrow a book.” Libraries are the greatest thing. They open the world to anyone willing to look. Not everyone bothers to look, but those who want to have the opportunity.

The problems with bumper-sticker governance

Bumper-sticker slogans and politics have always been inseparable, like peanut butter and jelly. Throughout the history of campaigning, politicians have employed succinct, often widely known but ambiguous sayings to seek the approval of prospective voters. But these slogans’ recent transition from catchy phrases to foundational theories of governmental policy has had negative consequences, particularly in New York.

BrIaN CUrraN

Take, for instance, “Tax the Rich — Pay Your Fair Share.” As the son of a bus driver and a bank teller, I have never been, and likely will never be, a member of the “rich” club. The notion of millionaires and billionaires paying more taxes has an inherent appeal. In a progressive tax system, like New York’s, those with larger incomes pay a larger share of taxes. But the challenge lies in the undefined concept of one’s “fair share.” It’s effective as a bumper-sticker slogan, but it lacks the precision needed for sound governmental policy.

Politicians, driven by an insatiable desire to appease their constituents, inevitably expand municipal budgets

— which necessitates additional taxes.

On the surface, what solution could be more universally acceptable than increasing taxes on the rich to fill budget gaps? The problem arises when the gap remains unfilled, and the “rich” begin contemplating leaving New York. The exodus of a relatively few wealthy residents can create a massive budget hole.

wNew York, one of the highest taxed states, has witnessed a historic outward migration over the past two decades. In 2023 alone, the state lost over 100,000 residents, the most in the country. Since 2020, New York has bid farewell to 10 billionaires. Currently, the top 1 percent of taxpayers in the state contribute 42 percent of its tax receipts, with billionaires facing the highest income tax rate of 14.8 percent.

and increased fares for mass transit. The strategy attempts to make middleclass earners believe in the tax-the-rich slogan while in fact increasing their taxes and cost of living.

hen it comes to taxes, for instance, how do we determine our ‘fair share’?

Another problematic slogan is “New York is a sanctuary for all immigrants.” Along with several other blue states, New York declared itself a sanctuary state, directly conflicting with federal law. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo embraced this idea, branding Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents “a bunch of thugs” and refusing to cooperate with the agency.

in other areas, such as state aid for public schools. Schools are being repurposed as migrant shelters, and health care funds are being diverted from veterans to migrants. New York City Mayor Eric Adams aptly declared that “the migrant issue will destroy New York City,” but it extends beyond the city, and may jeopardize the state and country.

Given Albany’s reluctance to seriously consider cutting spending, politicians are left with a delicate task: increasing taxes on the remaining wealthy without prompting further departures. So they may raise their taxes slightly while devising alternative means to generate revenue from the “little guy” — the euphemistically described “middle class.”

Examples of these alternative revenue sources include congestion pricing, commuter taxes, the home heating tax,

Letters

We need to keep that going, and not be controlled by closed-minded people.

You may not know that about one-third of Nassau County libraries allow adult patrons to borrow a telescope just like a book. I have been promoting the Library Telescope Program for almost eight years now, and I work with 17 Nassau County libraries so far.

Everything I do is free to the library. It just needs to buy the telescope and various accessories directly from vendors, totaling about $450. I help by modifying the telescope to make it easy to use and transport, and provide maintenance as needed. I also provide staff and patron training on how to handle and use the telescope, as well as periodic astronomy-related presentations. In March I will be doing eclipse presentations at eight libraries, and occasionally I do Moon Parties as well. All at no cost.

There are now over 1,000 libraries running the Library Telescope Program, mostly in the U.S. and Canada, but also in other countries.

TOM LYNCH Lynbrook

A neighborly winter surprise

To the Editor:

Looking out my bedroom window, noticing the snowfall had just about stopped, I decided to gear up and start the removal process. As I was clearing off the car, readying to start the shoveling, I noticed that part of my front walk has been cleared. Looking even closer, I saw a body working on the front entranceway. My neighbor has often started snow removal for me as I have done for him, so I thought for sure it was either him or one of his sons helping out.

As I got closer to the sidewalk, I realized for sure that this helper, a young man, was unknown to me. I asked why he was helping, and he said, “I got up early, noticed the snowfall and decided to do some shoveling.” He was finishing up the last section of sidewalk, so I went inside to grab some cash to give him, but when I came back outside, he was gone. Off to job No. 2, I suppose.

Whoever you are, thank you!

PHIL GRELLA Rockville Centre

While the policy was initially seen as “virtue signaling” by Democratic politicians, the consequences have been obvious. With a federal open-border policy and the governors of Texas and Florida transporting migrants to sanctuary states, New York now faces an unprecedented migrant crisis. New York City alone has received over 180,000 migrants, and, under a consent decree, is obligated to provide them with shelter and basic needs.

The fiscal implications of the migrant problem are staggering: It is projected to cost the city over $12 billion through 2025. Gov. Kathy Hochul recently proposed $2.3 billion in spending to deal with the crisis, making budget cuts

One more bumper-sticker slogan to consider is “Universal health care is a human right.” It’s a noble sentiment, but the reality is that universal health care is financially unsustainable, and could bankrupt any state attempting to implement it. Even Vermont abandoned its plan for universal health care in 2014, because it would have doubled the state’s budget and necessitated crippling tax increases.

A more pragmatic approach involves lowering health care costs for all by realistically addressing the overall cost of providing health care.

Obviously, slogans can’t serve as the foundation for workable governmental policies. While those like “No taxation without representation” and “One person, one vote” have led to meaningful policies, they’re the exception rather than the rule. Voters must be discerning, and ensure that candidates with bumper-sticker slogans comprehend the issues before they give them their support.

Brian Curran represents the 21st Assembly District.

Framework by Tim Baker

At Ogden Elementary School’s Father-Daughter and Special Person Dance — Valley Stream