Nassau Herald 03-09-2023

JCC details proposal for 5TCC

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Five Towns Community Center feared losing its home on Lawrence Avenue when Nassau County issued a request for proposal in January, seeking a new entity at the property. In the meantime, the Marion & Aaron Gural JCC has seen continued growth at its headquarters on Grove Avenue in Cedarhurst, and has outgrown the facility.

So the Gural JCC has proposed a partnership with the 116-year-old Five Towns center, in which the two organizations would share a home.

“Our proposal is an impactful initiative, one that serves all community residents,” the JCC’s proposal letter states. “Our vision

Lawrence H.S. notes long-sought 90 percent graduation rate

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

For the first time since 2008, Lawrence High School attained a 90 percent graduation rate in 2021-22, three points higher than the state average, according to a state education department report.

The report documents a range of data, including the number of students in schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, average class sizes and “accountability status,” an evaluation of school performance based on student performance.

“The graduation rate does show that our students, even

with the challenges posed by the pandemic and remote learning, were dedicated to their studies and were able to come through these unprecedented times successfully,” Lawrence superintendent Ann Pedersen said in a news release. “We are immensely proud of every one of our graduates, and we are ready to assist those needing additional time and help to ensure that every student is given every opportunity to succeed and move on successfully to the next stage of their lives.”

In recent years, the district’s graduation rate has consistently ranged in the 80s.

The enrollment in Lawrence

school, specifically those who are economically disadvantaged.

“It’s not a matter of (the) ethnic breakdown of our student body,” Papp wrote in an email.

“A true indicator of the challenges LHS faces is our economically disadvantaged subgroup.”

Those students take part in economic assistance programs such as free and reduced lunch

wschools is 61 percent Hispanic/ Latino, 20 percent African-American, 15 percent white and 4 percent Asian. Lawrence High Principal Jennifer Lagnado Papp has faced the ongoing challenge of how to work with students who need academic help outside

programs. Most have limited academic resources at home, so the district has incorporated programs like the Weekend Academy, which was created in 1999 and focuses on state Regents exam subjects including math, English, science and history.

According to the education department report, 88 percent of Continued on page 21

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald

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Cedarhurst village candidates are unopposed

By HERNEsto GALDAmEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Three incumbent Village of Cedarhurst candidates are running unopposed in the March 21 election.

Mayor Benjamin Weinstock, Deputy Mayor Ari Brown and Trustee Israel “Izzy” Wasser are casting their run for re-election. They last ran in 2019 and all terms are four years. Deputy mayor is an appointed position, Brown, who is also an assemblyman, is running as a trustee.

Weinstock was first introduced to village government serving as its attorney in 1988. Elected as a trustee in 1994, he served as deputy mayor from 2003 to 2015 under Andrew Parise. Weinstock succeeded Parise when he died in February 2015.

Weinstock views Parise as his mentor.

“Working alongside Mayor Parise as deputy mayor for 13 years, and for more than 20 years before that as a deputy village attorney and a trustee, allowed me to observe firsthand his skills in reaching compromises,” he said, “on all sorts of issues and to embrace not so obvious solutions to a myriad of problems.”

Andrew J. Parise Cedarhurst Park, , right across Cedarhurst Avenue from Village Hall, was named in his honor.

Weinstock said the relationship he has with the board is a reason for the trustees success together and why neighbors should come out to vote for their re-election.

“I feel that I, together with the support and efforts of the board of trustees, have accomplished a lot for our village,” he said, “although I am running unopposed, I treat

every election as a contested one.”

In the past four years, the board has ensured the village roads and sidewalks were repaved, more than 200 new trees were planted, faded street and traffic signs have been replaced and by the end of this year LED smart lights will replace older street lights. Previously on the zoning board, Wasser, was elected in 2015. Brown pointed out Wasser typically would ride around Cedarhurst noticing anything that needs to be addressed.

“He can tell you every single light that is out,” Brown said.

Wasser was a factor in pushing for the

LED street light project, according to Brown. As of press time, Wasser did not respond for comment.

When asked how he juggles both state and village responsibilities, Brown said, “you just do it.”

Brown, a Republican, was initially elected to represent the 20th Assembly District last April when he defeated fellow Cedarhurst resident and Democrat David Lobl. In November, Brown defeated Democrat Mike Delury. Along with the Five Towns, the assembly district includes Atlantic Beach, East Rockaway, Long Beach and Oceanside.

Originally from Franklin Square, Brown first called Cedarhurst home when he and his family moved in 1991. He became a trustee in 2001 and was named as Weinstock’s deputy mayor in 2019.

“When someone calls,” Brown said, “we treat it (the call) like it’s our family calling. Our friends, neighbors/residents know we are here to serve them and appreciate that in that regard. I’m not saying we are always in agreement, but we always find a way to make people happy.”

Voting is from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 21 in Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Ave. in Cedarhurst.

Artist Michael Alpert wants to stimulate people

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Woodmere native and pop artist, Michael Albert will have a modern art retrospective exhibition at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library through April 7.

Over the past 35 years, Albert has created thousands of original works of art including collages and wax oil drawings. Albert went through the Lawrence school district attending the Number Six School in Woodmere (now the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach), Lawrence Junior High School (now called Lawrence Middle School) and Lawrence High, where he met his wife, Erynn, an Atlantic Beach native.

Albert’s interest art began in his junior year at New York University, where he was majoring in business. His family had a lumber company that his grandfather started and his father, uncle and older brother worked. While Albert wasn't planning on continuing the business, he thought he could learn about business and be helpful if necessary.

“When I was graduating, my father said, ‘before you think to come here, go out into the world and get a job and work hard and see where that leads,” he said.

Albert ended up getting into the food business with two college friends when he graduated from school. He co-founded a specialty food distribution business with his schoolmates where the three began distributing Wild Lingonberry Juice and

other specialty groceries to specialty food retailers throughout the greater New York Metropolitan area. After a number of years in the business, running around to different stores, and selling a different variety of products, he realized that he needed to have his own brand.

“I wanted to put my energy into something that I could build for myself,” he said.

In 1993, he founded ‘Sir Real’ Fruit

Juice Company, a brand of organic fruit juices & natural foods, which he runs to this day. He came up with recognizable and unique fruit head characters wearing tuxedos, based on the famous surrealistic art of greed, to represent his brand.

“The ultimate thing is that it is my own product,” said Albert. “The one thing nobody can take away from me is my art.”

Albert is known now for collaging using cereal boxes and consumer packag-

es. He received a book deal in 2008, an artist's autobiography written for young people, which ended up in libraries all over the country.

Since the publishing of his book, titled, "An Artist's America" by Henry Holt, Albert has developed a traveling Pop Art Enrichment Program & Hands-On Collage Workshop for kids, teens, and adults and a multi-generational event called the "Modern Pop Art Experience" which he has brought to more than 1,000 schools, libraries, museums, art festivals in most of the United States and in Europe.

His exhibition has been in the works for several years after it was originally set to take place two years ago but was put on hold due to Covid.

“I've been going to libraries all over the country, but it's super special to be able to come back to where I grew up, show the community what I've done and interact with the community,” said Albert, who lives in Westchester.

The exhibit has 35 pieces to represent 35 years of work. He hopes those who attend his exhibition can take away inspiration.

“I want people to see it and find it interesting,” Albert said. “Since I'm from Woodmere, I think it would be great if some people said wow, look at what this guy did. He was born here, went to school here, and went out to the world and did all this. Then they go out into the world and do some crazy interesting thing themselves.”

Courtesy Michael Albert

AmERIcAN PoP ARtIst Michael Albert has a month-long art exhibition at the HewlettWoodmere Public Library.

Courtesy Cedarhurst Village

cEDARHuRst vILLAGE INcumBENts, Mayor Benjamin Weinstock, left, Deputy Mayor Ari Brown and Trustee Israel Wasser are running unopposed for re-election.

Purim fun at Chabad

Hewlett Hamantash bake

Purim, one of the few Jewish holidays that is full of fun, was celebrated on Tuesday, but the Chabad of Hewlett got a head start by hosting a Family Hamantash Bake at their Hewlett home on March 5.

For roughly an hour families joined together to make the triangle-shaped cookie that is part of the victory celebration over the Achaemenid Empire in ancient Persia an d remembering the woman, Esther, who helps defeat the wicked Haman, who was the chief adviser to King Ahasuerus.

The Book of Esther recounts the tale and is called the Megillah. Children and adults dress up in costumes depicting either characters from the story, party themes or other characters and costumes.

— Jeffrey Bessen

JaCqueline volman and Ashley Volman, 5, reviewed the directions before beginning to make their hamantash cookies.

HOW TO REACH US

Our offices are located at 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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Hewlett CHabad Hosted a Family Hamantash Bake two days before Purim.

Eric Dunetz/Herald photos oliver, 3, and Ann Kunuwitz, 4, with dad, Ken, at the Chabad of Hewlett’s hamantash bake.

Coach Realtors merges with Howard Hanna

Two family-owned real estate firms that opened their doors in the 1950s with eyes to serve their immediate neighbors are now joining forces some 70 years later.

Coach Realtors — based in Northport, but with offices across Long Island — has merged with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services out of Pittsburgh. The partnership of “two industry powerhouses” will “transform into even more amazing opportunities for our agents and clients,” said Howard “Hoby” Hanna IV, president of Howard Hanna, in a release.

“Our combined strength, talents and resources will be such an advantage in the industry.”

Howard Hanna first opened in Pittsburgh in 1957, not long after Coach Realtors set up shop in 1954. For Coach, that start began with a friendship founded during World War II that became a business partnership, according to the company’s history.

Since then, however, the two homegrown firms have expanded to become heavy hitters in the national real estate market. Howard Hanna has grown its presence in New York over the last seven years, and describes itself as the largest real estate firm in the state, based on units sold.

“We are thrilled to joined forces with Howard Hanna,” said Whitney Finn LaCosta, broker and owner of Coach Realtors, in a release. “We’re still the same Coach Realtors people have come to know and love, and you can expect the same top-quality service from our team. We just have a stronger real estate network for our clients now.”

As part of the merger, Coach Realtors will retain its

existing leadership and direction, with Finn LaCosta becoming chief executive of the newly combined Howard Hannah | Coach Realtors.

Coach agents gain an expanded referral network across 13 states, and will grow the overall network to

more than 15,000 agents and staff members.

“This partnership allows us to take Coach Realtors to the next level,” LaCosta said. “I’m looking forward to working with Howard Hanna and continuing our legacy of excellence.”

Courtesy Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors LuxuRy REAL ESTATE firm Coach Realtors has merged with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services out of Pittsburgh to create an expanded real estate footprint across New York state. Howard ‘Hoby’ Hanna IV, at right, is the president of Howard Hanna, welcoming Coach’s leadership team of ancillary services vice president Robert LaCosta, operating officer L.P. Finn, and broker/ owner Whitney LaCosta.

The Gural JCC proposal includes roughly 7,500 square feet of renovated space for the Five Towns Community Center, along with its own entrance in the north wing of the Lawrence building. Above, 5TCC supporters rallied on Jan. 20.

County RFP submission deadline was March 1

continued from front page

brings together two tenured and respected organizations that currently serve the greater Five Towns, who will collaborate and share one community campus.”

The county owns the Lawrence property where the Five Towns Community Center has operated since 1972. The county and the center agreed on a 50-year lease in 1974, but it is set to expire next year, with no extension on offer. The county RFP is seeking a new tenant that can provide youth-oriented activities and services at a more modern facility. The county is looking for a nonprofit to make a minimum of $5 million in capital improvements on the property. The deadline for RFP submissions was March 1.

The proposal from the Gural JCC was brought to the attention of the Five Towns center’s board at its Feb. 23 meeting.

The JCC is proposing to spend a minimum of $6 million on capital improvements that would including renovating the gym, lighting, lobby and classrooms, and paying for routine maintenance and utilities. The center would be able to operate independently, and continue the services it has offered for the past halfcentury.

“Our plan is to provide the Five Towns Community Center renovated space of approximately 7,500-square-feet in the north wing with their own main entrance and lobby,” the letter states.

According to the proposal, the organizations would have separate boards of directors. The partnership would be an expansion for the Gural JCC, which would move programs and services from Cedarhurst to the Lawrence Avenue campus, and sell the Grove Avenue building.

“The Gural JCC, together with the Five Towns Community Center, will be releasing information at a future date together,” Stacey Feldman, executive director of the JCC, said. “We will not be talking about it independently at this time.”

Once again, the Community Center’s board president, Gwynn Campbell, and Executive Director K. Brent Hill declined to comment.

Lawrence High School junior Jayden Emery has been a vocal advocate of the center since the RFP was issued, but doesn’t support the JCC’s proposal.

“The merge with JCC is not our way out of this problem we have with our center currently,” Emery said. “Most of our residents in the Five Towns are unable to pay the fees the JCC is requesting, and it’s only insulting to institute them and propose it as if it were beneficial to the community.”

Emery was referring to a new Health and Wellness Center the JCC has proposed, which would include a fitness center, private training rooms, studios for classes and a child watch space. Membership would be open to everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, race or gender, according to the proposal. It is not known how much memberships would cost.

The Gural JCC offers an array of services at the facility in Cedarhurst and at its Harrison-Kerr Family Campus in Lawrence. It acquired that property from Temple Israel of Lawrence in 2017.

The JCC has an Early Childhood Center in Cedarhurst in Cedarhurst, and it uses the temple’s ballroom for events. Its services include programs for seniors, adults and teens, and the Sustenance Hope Opportunities Place, also in Cedarhurst, houses the Rina Shkolnik Kosher Food Pantry and social assistance services.

The Five Towns center is home to Aid to the Foreign Born, a Head Start program, Gammy’s Pantry, a Youth Community Action Center and counseling services, all of which, the JCC’s proposal stated, would continue if the organizations came to an agreement on a partnership.

Have an opinion on the Gural JCC proposal for the Five Towns Community Center? Send a letter to jbessen@liherald.

The Five Steps to an Elder Law Estate Plan

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

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

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

including saving legal fees and taxes.

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

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

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

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald

From prenatal care to senior health, we deliver quality healthcare to meet the needs of women at every stage of life.

We take pride in offering the latest state-of-the-art services and procedures.

Steinmetz ready to surprise the world with Team Israel

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Woodmere resident Jacob Steinmetz, who was the first Orthodox Jewish player drafted, will now be achieving another first-time feat.

Steinmetz, 19, will be the youngest player in the 2023 World Baseball Classic tournament, an international baseball tournament that takes place in Miami, Florida, March 7 to 21. Steinmetz will play for Team Israel.

He was selected 77th by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the third round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft.

Steinmetz played on the Long Island Chargers and Titans softball teams as a teenager, where the teams accommodated Steinmetz’s religious obligations. While such accommodations are harder to come by in pro ball, since being picked up two years ago, Steinmetz said that the Diamondbacks have been ”super” accommodating with his religious obligations and the biggest adjustments he has had to make are from the higher level of competition.

“If I ever make a mistake, pitchingwise, the hitters are good enough that it's going to cost me so that was the main thing for me,” he said.

Steinmetz's father, Elliot, is the men's basketball coach at Yeshiva University.

While Steinmetz stands at 6 feet, 5 inches, he always knew that baseball was the sport for him. In January 2022, Stein-

metz was rated Arizona's No. 25 prospect and was noted for his strong curveball and 97 mph fastball, which shows he made the right choice of sports.

“Ever since I was younger, I have always liked baseball more,” he said. “It started just because I'm better at it. As I grew older, I just got more understanding of the game itself, what goes into being a

pitch and I just fell in love with it.”

Steinmetz credited many different coaches that helped him along the way baseball-wise and while his mom and dad are not big on baseball knowledge, he credits them both for the person he is today.

“My religion is who I am, so how they raised me to be committed to it while

playing baseball played a big part,” he said.

Steinmetz initially committed to play baseball for Fordham University at the NCAA Division I level and honed his skills at the Elev8 Academy in Delray Beach, Florida.

He says he hasn’t felt any extra pressure to perform since being drafted but is always looking for ways to get better. Throughout his path to the draft, Steinmetz continued to set goals for himself and look to improve his skills, keep true to his character and stay focused.

“With baseball, it's about being consistent with throwing strikes, and if there's anything I can think of to improve on, I'd say just keep being me,” Steinmetz said. “Whether it's playing for Team Israel or getting drafted, when I first committed to college baseball, I set goals for myself and I'm not too worried about any outside noise. Just trying to focus on baseball.” His main goal is to make it to the major league level as quickly as possible, and once there, stay as long as possible.

Israel is ranked No. 20 by the World Baseball Softball Confederation among the countries taking part, but Steinmetz is looking to win as many games as possible and turn some heads.

“With Team Israel, I'm sure they weren't ranked very high last time and ended up finishing sixth,” he said. “The goal is to win every game we play and then if they have us 20th, just to surprise everyone a little bit.”

Courtesy Jacob Steinmetz

As tHE youNgEst player to play in the World Baseball Classic tournament, Jacob Steinmetz is ready to win as

Long Island’s top real estate pros honored

Hundreds attend annual Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Awards

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long Island.”

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

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

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

FAthER/ dAughtER

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

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

2023 Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Award winners

Residential

The Residences at Glen Harbor

Michael W. Stanco

Stanco Misiti Team at Compass

Gina Marie Bettenhauser

Coldwell Banker Distinctive Homes Long Island Board of Realtors

Hilary Becker Becker Realty Services Inc.

Molly Deegan Branch Real Estate Group

John & Barbara Gandolfo

Coldwell Banker American Homes

Kevin Leatherman Leatherman Homes

Donna O’Reilly Einemann

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Luciane Serifovic Luxian International Realty

Shawn Steinmuller

Shawn Michael Realty

Mark Stempel & Jennie Katz Blue Island Homes

Helena Veloso

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Malka Asch Coach Realtors

Miriam Hagendorn Serhant

Ricki Noto Coldwell Banker American Homes

Scott Wallace

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

David Kasner Coldwell Banker American Homes

Commercial

Thomas DeLuca

Cushman & Wakefield of Long Island

Anthony Bartone

Terwilliger & Bartone Properties LLC

Kenneth Breslin, Esq. Breslin Realty Development Corp.

Christopher Capece

Heatherwood

Rob Gitto

The Gitto Group

Mark Meisner

The Birch Group

E.W. Howell Construction Group

Special Awards

Michael Maturo

RXR Realty

Martin Lomazow

CBRE

Michael S. Ackerman Ackerman Law PLLC

John D. Chillemi

Ruskin Moscou Faltischek PC

Bryan P. McCrossen

Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP

Christopher H. Palmer Cullen and Dykman LLP

Ellen N. Savino

Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC

Commercial Industrial Broker Society of Long Island

David Pennetta

Stephen A. Hayduk

Hayduk Engineering LLC

Gilbert Balanoff

The Law Offices of Gilbert Balanoff PC

Tiffany Balanoff

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Nicholas Ceccarini

Weatherstone Mortgage Corp.

Christine Curiale Valley Bank

Melissa Curtis Contour Mortgage

Michael Steinberg

Hedgestone Business Advisors

Alex Lipsky Lipsky Construction

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

Ryan J. Coyne Serhant

VincePropertyShark PropertyShark.com

Habitat Abstract

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

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Tim Baker/Herald photos

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

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

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

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

Courtesy Le Selfie

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

It all started the moment she raised her hand

By MALLORY WILSON mwilson@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shubin Dresner said that she turned the job down more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Herald file photo

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

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Blakeman claims a successful first year

By MICHAEL MALASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I especially want to thank Sen. Chuck Schumer for

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald

STEPPING OUT

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

A sweet time awaits at the Surrounded by confections

By Karen Bloom

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

By Karen Bloom

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

WHERE WHEN

Pat McGann

Expo

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

• Sunday, March 12, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Participating chocolatiers offer chocolate bonbons, chocolate bars,

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

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

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

The Ugly Duckling

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

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

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

Yarn/Wire

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Sicilian Tenors

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE SCENE

March 11 StepCrew

StepCrew brings their Celtic flair to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center stage, Saturday, March 11, 7:30 p.m. The talented cast of dancers and musicians is led by Long Island’s Cara Butler and the Pilatzke Brothers, Jon and Nathan. All three are longtime touring members of the acclaimed The Chieftains. The StepCrew boasts Celtic and World music from three world-class fiddle players backed by a five-piece ensemble, featuring three dance styles — Irish, Tap, and Ottawa Valley step dance. Tickets start at $55, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 8774000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Lawrence village

Breastfeeding Support Group

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

In concert

Singer-songwriters

Willie Nile

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

April 1

March 9

The Lawrence village board of trustees holds their monthly meeting on Thursday, March 9 , 8 p.m., in Village Hall at 196 Central Ave., Lawrence.

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

PHYSICAL COMEDY AND DISASTER!”

Michael Alpert

Five Towns native Michael Albert’s modern pop art retrospective will be on exhibit, at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library, Thursday, March 9 through Sunday, April 9, at 1125 Broadway, Hewlett. Works from the past 35 years will be on display.

March 13

‘A Soul Beneath the Earth’

A combo in-person and Zoom discussion on Sandy Schipper’s novel “A Soul Beneath the Earth,” on Monday, March 13, 11 a.m., at Peninsula Public Library, 280 Central Ave., Lawrence. Call Roxanne Spodek at (516) 967-577 to confirm the in-person option. To reserve a copy of the book, go to Bit. Ly/3J49mYk. To register for the Zoom, go to Bit.Ly/3EMglmj.

Having an event?

Painting Program

On Friday March 10 and 17, the Center for Adult Life Enrichment will host Steve Hetzel and his painting program to 37 East Rockaway Road, Hewlett. To join, call (516) 374-4747.

Spa Night

Naema Sharon, a local spa owner and Five Towns residents, will discuss the do’s and don’ts of skin care in-person on Monday, March 13, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Peninsula Public Library, 280 Central Ave., Lawrence. Registration is required. District 15 cardholders. Go to, Bit.Ly/3xIANQO. For more information, call (516) 9675777.

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

On stage

Mo Willems’ popular The Pigeon comes alive on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Saturday, March 11, 11:30 a.m.; Thursday and Friday, March 16-17, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Pigeon is eager to try anything, with the audience part of the action. $9 with museum admission, $12 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

March 14

Atlantic Beach

The Village of Atlantic Beach will hold its monthly board of trustees meeting on Tuesday, March 14 at 7:45 p.m., in Village Hall, 65 The Plaza, Atlantic Beach.

In-person Game Time

Play canasta, mah jongg and Scrabble in the Bentley Room of Peninsula Public Library, 280 Central Ave., Lawrence, Monday, March 13, 2-4:30 p.m. Seating is limited and is first come, first seated. Masks recommended.

‘Forever Plaid’

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

Family theater

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

Craft Kitchen & Tap House

St. Patrick's Week Menu

2023

Beef Barle y Soup

10

Appetizer s

Chef Patrick was influenced as a young man by his Grandmother 's kitchen, and that's where he saw that cooking can feed peoples souls.

Patrick attended and excelled at the culinary schools he attended. His first stop was at Sullivan College. His journey started at the Garden City Hotel, in the La Cote d' dining room with master Chef Patrick Pino, who shaped his philosophy of cooking. Patrick then headed to New York City to expand his culinary repertoire at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. That's where he met Three Star Michelin Chef Gunther Serger Chef Serger instilled in him the elegance of simplicity, artistry of balance and the appreciation of the ingredients. Patrick moved south to Atlanta and worked with renowned chef and author Marcella Hazan who instilled the purity and quality of the products that they used. A short stint with Chef Emeril Lagasse exposed Patrick to southern flares and flavors as well.

Patrick felt he had found his culinary voice and headed home to Long Island. That's when he found local farms and fishermen that worked with sustainable practices. Over the years Patrick has instilled balance in the blends of ingredients in his cuisine, still striving for the fulfillment of his culinary soul. Craft Kitchen & Taphouse are so excited to have Chef Patrick heading to the Lynbrook team. His weekly specials are a "must try" and will be changing the seasonal menu this May, making it a great Spring Summer destination whether you dine inside or out at Craft.

Irish Nachos

Potato Chips, Cor ned Beef, Sour Cream, Scallions, Swiss Cheese Sauce 15

Kilkenny Ste w Beef, Potatoes & Veggies, Over Egg Noodles 22

Beer Battered Fish & Chips Cole Slaw, Hand Cut Fries 22

Cor ned Beef & Cabbage Boiled Potatoes 25 44 Stauder man Avenue • Lynbrook 516-341-0547 • www.CraftLynbrook.com

Dublin Eggrolls

Cor ned Beef, Cabbage, Swiss Cheese 15

Entrées

She pherd's Pie

Ground Beef, Car rot & Pea Casserole, Topped W/ Mashed Potatoes

22

Done gal Tidbits

Cor ned Beef, Swiss Cheese, Fries 18

Reuben Sandwich

Cor ned Beef, Swiss Cheese, Sauerkraut, Russian Dressing, Fries 17

CB Sandwich

Cor ned Beef, Rye Bread, Fries 16

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

New legislative districts approved along partisan lines

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

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

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

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

“Our constituents lose tonight, and nobody wins.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“When we think about disenfranchis-

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

“That’s exactly what you’re doing.”

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

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

going to cost taxpayers money.”

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

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

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

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

Ana Borruto/Herald photos

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

Variety of programs help disadvantaged students

Lawrence seniors who were categorized as economically disadvantaged graduated last June.

“In an effort to continue this pattern of success, we are monitoring student attendance as it relates to their academic growth,” Papp wrote. “We have set a school-wide academic growth goal and are monitoring attendance daily.”

“Passport for Good,” a web-based platform designed to track student activities and career development at the high school, and in turn to increase student engagement, is expected to start this spring.

Lawrence Middle School Principal Willis Perry emphasized that students’ preparation for high school starts with offering high school-level courses in his building.

“A big factor is our middle school students in eighth grade are taking high school-credit courses,” Perry said. “Prior to ever walking into the high school, they’ve already had high school credits.”

For her part, Gov. Kathy Hochul has stressed the importance of students’ mental health, and noted that schools typically provide them with little to no mental health support. The issue was highlighted when in-person teaching resumed as the coronavirus pandemic eased.

Studies have shown that a focus on maintaining students’ mental health can

lead to their success in school and later life. In 2021, Lawrence collaborated with Northwell Health’s Behavioral Health Center, in Rockville Centre, to help students with mental health challenges.

In the middle school, social workers and psychologists are available on-site, and regularly meet with students to help

ease the transition from middle to high school.

“We’re … providing them the additional help and mental help they might need,” Perry said, “to get over these tough moments.”

Providing the tools to help students grow in school, and to prepare them for

the world beyond high school, is described by district officials as a team effort. “We are so proud of our students’ academic accomplishments and the growth they have shown,” Papp said. “Having a 90 percent graduation rate is a testament to our students’ hard work that takes place in our classrooms each day.”

Joe Abate/Herald

The Lawrence high School class of 2022 celebrating last June. The school recorded a graduation rate of 90 percent — three percentage points above the state average — for the first time since 2008.

One of the best. Once again. Right here in Oceanside.

High Performing in Nine Areas of Care

All are welcome in the Lawrence White House

A few days before Presidents’ Day, Feb. 20, Lawrence Elementary School students in Susan Hurwitz’s Stephanie Rubenfeld’s classes conducted research on the U.S. presidents and the first ladies of their choice, reading biographies and articles and created a project diary. In the diaries were the key events of the presidents and first ladies as well as the students’ thoughts.

At a “White House reception,” the students dressed up as their chosen president or first ladies. The children recited speeches before their classmates, described the major accomplishments and vital facts about their subject. The students spoke to each other in character of their chosen president or first lady.

“We are always looking for new ways to get our students to participate in holidays in an educational but fun way,” Jacqueline Beckman, principal of Lawrence Elementary, said in a news release.

Lawrence eLementary SchooL students celebrated the presidents and first ladies of the United States by conducting research, reading biographies, creating a project diary and then dressing up as their chosen president of first lady.

— Jeffrey Bessen

Courtesy Lawrence schools

LISA MIRABILE

& Founder Vertigo Media Group

EDUCATION

MARIA P. CONZATTI

Interim President

Nassau Community College

BARBARA J. HOLAHAN

CFO, VP for Financial Affairs & Treasurer

New York Institute of Technology

MARYANNE HYLAND

Dean of the Robert B. Willumstad

School of Business Adelphi University

MAURIE McINNIS

President

Stony Brook University

ENERGY & ELECTRIC

JENNIFER HAYEN

Director of Communications

Long Island Power Authority

MICHELLE D. SOMERS

Marketing Manager

PSEG Long Island

ENTREPRENEURS

JOSEPHINE FITZPATRICK

Nutrition & Weight Loss Specialist

Innovation Weight Loss & Healthy Market

ELLEN PELLEGRINO

Entrepreneur/Movie Producer

Windows on the Lake Beach Club Estate

Age of New Beginnings

MAUREEN TARA NELSON

CEO

MTN Matchmaking

GOVERNMENT

LISA M. BLACK

Chief Deputy County Executive

Office of the Suffolk County Executive

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

MELANIE BASILE

Chief Growth Officer

The Smilist

DR. MICHELLE A. CHESTER

Senior Director Operations, Occupational Health Services

Northwell Health

DR. GAIL CORREALE

Optometrist

THERESA DILLMAN, DNP (C), MSN, MHA, RN, NE-BC

Associate Executive Director and Chief Nursing Officer Glen Cove Hospital, Northwell Health System

DR. ODETTE R. HALL

Chief Medical Examiner

Suffolk County Office of the Medical Examiner

NITZA KAHALON HASIS

Clinical Director

New Horizon Counseling Center - Valley Stream

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CEO & Co-Owner

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REBECCA SANIN

President & CEO

Health & Welfare Council of Long Island

JULIE WEXLER

Director of Business Development

The Bristal Assisted Living

HUMAN RESOURCES

ELIZABETH MARIE SAITTA

Executive Director

SHRM Long Island Chapter

INSURANCE

CATIA ALATI

Vice President

Lockton Companies

LEGAL

PAULA PARRINO, ESQ.

Chief Administrative Officer & Vice President of Operations

Nationwide Court Services, Inc.

STEPHANIE A. CLARK, ESQ.

Lead Attorney

Law Offices of Stephanie A. Clark

ERIKA L. CONTI, ESQ.

Partner Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC

DEANNA M. EBLE, ESQ.

Partner

Russo Law Group, P.C.

LAUREL R. KRETZING

Partner

Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP

KAREN J. TENENBAUM, ESQ.

Tax Attorney

Tenenbaum Law, P.C.

DINA L. VESPIA, ESQ.

Partner

Cullen and Dykman LLP

NICOLE L. WEINGARTNER

Director of State Government Affairs

Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP

MEDIA

DANA ARSCHIN KRASLOW

2x Emmy-Winning Journalist

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The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County (HMTC)

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NBC 4 New York’s investigative unit, the I-Team

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NOT-FOR-PROFIT

TERRI ALESSI-MICELI

President & CEO

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ELIZABETH EINHART

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The Theresa Foundation

THERESA SANDERS

President & CEO

Urban League of Long Island Inc.

TAMMY SEVERINO

President & CEO

Girl Scouts of Suffolk County

STACEY SIKES

Vice President of Government Affairs & Communications Long Island Association

TOURISM

KRISTEN REYNOLDS

President & CEO

Discover Long Island

TRANSPORTATION

SHELLEY LaROSE-ARKEN

Aviation Commissioner

Long Island MacArthur Airport

SPECIAL AWARDS

LEGACY AWARD

MEREDITH WALDNER STERN

President Waldner’s Business Environments

NEXT GENERATION: UNDER 30

KATHLEEN DONNELLY

Senior Associate

Long Island Architecture Studio, DPC

LIANNE WEBB

Miss Long Island 2023

Miss Long Island Pageants

RISING TEEN AWARD

NATALIA SUAZA

Miss Long Island Teen 2023

Miss Long Island Pageants

TRAILBLAZER AWARD

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Founder National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL)

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CONNECT. COLLABORATE. CELEBRATE!

Public Notices

Legal Notice

The independent audit of the Hewlett-Woodmere U.F.S.D. for school year 2021-2022 has been completed and is available for viewing in the Central Office located at the Woodmere Education Center. If you are interested, please contact the District Clerk.

2021-2022 ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT

Board of Education

Hewlett-Woodmere Union Free School District Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York

June 30,2022 ANALYSIS

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF TAX LIEN SALE VILLAGE OF ATLANTIC BEACH

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 1452 and 1454 of the Real Property Tax Law of the State of NY that the following is a list of real estate tax in the Incorporated Village of Atlantic Beach upon which 2022/2023 taxes are unpaid as shown in the tax list on file with the Village Clerk, together with amounts of the tax, interest and charges thereon.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that on April 3, 2023 at 10:30 AM in the forenoon of said day, a lien on the aforesaid parcels of real estate will be sold at public auction in the Atlantic Beach Village Hall, 65 The Plaza, Atlantic Beach, NY to discharge the tax, fees, interest and charges of aforesaid which may be due thereon at the time of such sale.

All parcels located in Section 58 BLOCK LOTS LEGAL ADDRESS TOTAL

12 11 Chris McMahon, 139 Coronado St. $1,817.50

12 14 Chris McMahon, 139 Coronado St. $ 216.18

75 34 Tutus, 2010 Park Street $ 232.34

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

EMILY SINISCALCHI, VILLAGE CLERK

HERBERT A. KLIBANOFF, TREASURER

DATED: March 3, 2023

137789

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cedarhurst will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 13, 2023, at 8:00 PM in Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, New York for the purpose of amending Village Code Section 250-64. Parking Prohibited at all times.

NAME OF STREET SIDE LOCATION

Adelberg Lane West

Adelberg Lane East

From West Broadway to a point 25 feet North

From West Broadway to a point 25 feet North

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: Cedarhurst, New York

Salvatore Evola March 8, 2023

Village Administrator By Order of Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and Board of Trustees 137839

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY.

NAME: PGC Systems, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 01/30/23. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom

Public Notices

process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 66 Lindenbergh Street, Locust Valley, NY 11560

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

137061

Law Office of Mark L. Cortegiano, Esq. Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 65-12 69th Place, Middle Village, NY 11379

{* NASSAU HER*}

137166

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR

building lot coverage in a residential “B” district is 30%. Applicant is requesting a 59.2% lot coverage.

Mr. Igor Kanfer 1298 Auerbach Avenue Hewlett harbor, NY 11557, is requesting to maintain a garage conversion to livable space. Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning Code

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

MASPETH FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, Plaintiffagainst- BENJAMIN RINGEL, YAEL RINGEL, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated January 25, 2019 and entered on January 28, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 23, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lawrence in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County and State of New York, bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at a point on the westerly side of Washington Avenue (Craft Avenue), distant 177.80 feet southerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Westerly side of Washington Avenue and the southerly side of Broadway; RUNNING

THENCE Westerly on a line at right angles to Washington Avenue, 217.81 feet to land formerly belonging to the heirs of Gilbert Craft, deceased, at a point 210.7 feet southerly from Broadway as measured along said formerly of Craft; THENCE Southerly along said Craft’s land, 150.20 feet; THENCE Easterly, 225 feet 46 feet to Washington Avenue at a point 150 feet southerly from the point or place of BEGINNING; THENCE Northerly along Washington Avenue, 150 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING. Section: 41 Block: 87 Lot: 23

All bidders must wear a face mask/shield at all times and social distancing must be observed by all bidders at all times. Bidders who do not comply with the face mask and/or the social distancing mandate will be removed from the auction.

Said premises known as 15 WASHINGTON AVENUE, LAWRENCE, NY

Approximate amount of lien $626,230.81 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 1482/2017.

LAURIE HORZ, ESQ., Referee

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Hewlett Harbor will hold a public hearing via ZOOM on March 16, 2023 at 7:00pm. All residents and professionals wishing to attend are directed to contact Village Hall at 516-374-3806 for further ZOOM information/instruction or visit our website at www.hewlettharbor.org. All interested parties will be given the opportunity to be heard on the following application for variance relief:

Mr. Lemuel Santana 20 Thixton Drive Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557. Is requesting to build a new one family dwelling.

Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning code Ordinances 145-19.

Village zoning Code 145-19 states: The maximum permitted lot coverage shall not exceed 30%. Applicant is requesting a 55% lot coverage. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: the maximum permitted front yard surface coverage shall not exceed 23%.

Applicant is requesting a 62% front yard surface coverage. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: no side yard shall have a width that is less than 15’. Applicant is requesting a 13’6” side yard setback. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: Two side yards are required to maintain a minimum aggregate width of 35’. Applicant is requesting a 32’ side yard aggregate.

Ben & Zvi Ben-Yosef 1304 Harbor Road Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557. Is requesting to install a front yard pervious driveway. Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning code Ordinances 145-19.

Village zoning Code 145-19 states: The maximum permitted lot coverage shall not exceed 30%. Applicant is requesting a 45% lot coverage. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: the maximum permitted front yard surface coverage shall not exceed 23%.

Applicant is requesting a 35.3% front yard surface coverage.

Continuation…Mr. Igor Kanfer 1298 Auerbach Avenue Hewlett harbor, NY 11557, is requesting to maintain rear yard pavers. Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning Code 145-19. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: The maximum permitted

145-18.2.B. Village zoning Code 145-18.2.B states: Existing dwellings with enclosed garage space on-premises hereafter altered or enlarged shall maintain not less than one enclosed garage space with interior dimensions of not less than 10 feet by 20 feet. Applicant is requesting to maintain zero enclosed garage space.

Barry Beshkin 231 Everit Avenue Hewlett harbor, NY 11557, is requesting a rear yard accessory structure with pavers. Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning Code 145-19. Village zoning Code 145-19 states: The maximum permitted building lot coverage in a residential “A” district is 25%. Applicant is requesting a 37% lot coverage.

Dominic Calandrella 265 Bayberry Drive Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557, is requesting a driveway carport. Applicant requests relief from Village Zoning Code 145-19 and 145-25.A.

Village Zoning Code 145-19 states: The maximum permitted lot coverage shall not exceed 30% in a residential “B” district. Applicant is requesting to maintain a 38.8% lot coverage.

Village Zoning Code

145-25.A states: Accessory buildings shall not be nearer to any property line less than 15’ in the residential “B” district. Applicant is requesting 6” side yard setback.

BOARD

MICHAEL RYDER Village Clerk

Dated: Hewlett Harbor, New York February 23, 2023 137692

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 23, 2019 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 4, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 663 Barnard Avenue, Woodmere, NY 11598. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Woodmere, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section: 39 Block:

147 Lots: 41, 42 & 43. Approximate amount of judgment $865,837.52 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608171/2018. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Mark Lieberman, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

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

Dated: February 1, 2023

137709

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR WELLS FARGO ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-15, Plaintiff - against - STEVEN HITTELMAN, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 1, 2018. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 3rd day of April, 2023 at 4:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Woodmere, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 181 Combs Ave, Woodmere, NY 11598-1455.

AGAINST Michael S. Grossman a/k/a Michael Grossman; et al., Defendant(s)

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

Index No. 005941/2012. Matthew R. Gorman, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212

HITTELMAN-69398

Dated: January 26, 2023

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

137569

LEGAL NOTICE

INC. VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Village of Cedarhurst will hold a public hearing on 03/23/2023 at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY for the following:

Petition of 570 Peninsula Blvd Associates, LLC

Premises: 566-570 PENINSULA BLVD Sec/Blk/Lot 39/277/126

Case # 2023-007 NEW 1 STORY MEDICAL OFFICE

Variance from: VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST LOTS included 17a,126,127,131b 265-33 Permitted uses. No building or premises shall be used and no building shall be erected or altered for other than one or more of the following specified uses:

A.

physician, dentist, chiropractor, podiatrist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, registered nurse providing counseling services only, attorney, accountant, architect or professional engineer, may contain the following and shall not exceed the same: a waiting room, consultation room, two treatment and/or examining rooms and one bathroom with a total floor area not to exceed 600 square feet. The office space shall be entirely on the first floor of the premises and shall have a direct access by means of one entrance door to the interior of the residential portion.

[Amended 7-7-2014 by L.L. No. 8-2015; 11-7-2016 by L.L. No. 10-2018]

B. Places of worship.

[Amended 3-6-1967; 10-6-1997 by L.L. No. 9-1997]

C. Libraries, public museums and also schools as herein defined. [Amended 3-6-1967]

D. Clubs maintained or conducted by any religious, philanthropic or patriotic organization. [Amended 3-6-1967]

E. Accessory uses, customarily incident to the above uses, but not including a business or building or use not located on the same lots with the building or use to which it is accessory. A garage or a group of garages for more than two motor vehicles shall not be permitted as an accessory use. Each and every garage shall be at least 25 feet from any street line except on plots having a width of less than 50 feet located on a corner in which case such garage shall be placed on said property at a point as far distant as possible from any street line. Garages comprising a portion of the main dwelling shall be deemed a portion of that building and the front, side and rear yard restrictions shall be applicable thereto.

inclusive of the following lots Sec 39 Block 277 Lots 17A,126,127,131B

Variances with the Town of Hempstead are also required.

Parking spaces provided as shown meet the required number of spaces per Village code.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: March 8, 2023

Cedarhurst, NY

Benjamin Weinstock

Mayor Salvatore Evola Village Clerk-Treasurer

By Order of the Board Of Zoning Appeals 137837

LEGAL NOTICE INC. VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Village of Cedarhurst will hold a public hearing on 03/23/2023 at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY for the following:

Petition of Shonie Schwartz

Premises: 226 OAKWOOD AVE

Sec/Blk/Lot 39/253/107

Case # 2023-006

1 STORY ADDITIONS, 3RD FLOOR EXTEND FOR LIVING SPACE

Variance from:

265-36 Height

No building shall be raised and no building or any part thereof shall be erected or altered in a Residential R-1 District which is higher than twoand-one-half stories above the curb level of the street. In no event shall the top of the ridge be more than 30 feet above the level of the curb.

265-41 A. Side yards. Side yards.

A side yard is required along each side of a building.

Mayor Salvatore Evola

Village Clerk-Treasurer

By Order of the Board Of Zoning Appeals 137836

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cedarhurst will hold a public meeting on Monday, March 13, 2023, at 8:00 pm in Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, New York to Amend Chapter 181, Section 181- 1 Disorderly conduct : item M .

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: Cedarhurst, New York Salvatore Evola March 8, 2023

Village Administrator By Order of Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and Board of Trustees 137838

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Inc Village of Cedarhurst will hold an election in Cedarhurst Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue Cedarhurst, NY on TUESDAY, MARCH 21, 2023 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM to elect one mayor and two trustees, for a term of four years. The candidates are: For Mayor : Benjamin Weinstock, 505 Arbuckle Avenue, Cedarhurst, New York

For Trustee: Ari (Eric) Brown , 276 Leroy Avenue Cedarhurst New York

For Trustee : Israel Wasser, 384 Oak Avenue Cedarhurst New York

By order of Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and the Board of Trustees Salvatore Evola Village Clerk-Treasurer March 8, 2023 137840

(Section: 41, Block: 14, Lot: 159) Approximate amount of lien $705,005.49 plus interest and costs.

One-family dwellings which may include, in addition to the dwelling, the office of a professional (limited to a physician, dentist, chiropractor, podiatrist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, registered nurse providing counseling services only, attorney, accountant, architect or professional engineer), when actually used as the private dwelling of the aforesaid professional person, and the same individual who occupies the office shall reside within said premises and shall be the owner of record. No other professional shall use said office, regardless of his/her relationship to the owner-professional. The office space for said

65-40 Front Yards

A. A front yard of 25 feet shall be required.

B. In the case of a corner lot, the front yard on each street shall be as noted above, except that as to plots which were in single and separate ownership prior to August 4, 1952, and have been so maintained to date and which have a frontage of less than 60 feet and on which a residence may be lawfully erected in accordance with the ordinances of this Village, the required side yard toward the street shall be reduced to the extent of one foot for every two feet of total plot width which is less than 60 feet.

*** This denial is

The side yards along the sides of a building used exclusively as a singlefamily dwelling shall have an aggregate width of no less than 16 feet. Neither side shall be less than six feet in width, except on corner plots, the side yard shall be six feet.

265-42.1A. Character of roofs.

All buildings permitted by this chapter shall be erected with roofs other than those of the character and description known as “flat roofs.”

Such flat roofs are permitted for one-story extensions and appurtenances only, and are not to exceed 240 square feet in the aggregate.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER

NOTICE that all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: March 8, 2023

Cedarhurst, NY

Benjamin Weinstock

LEGAL NOTICE

INC. VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Village of Cedarhurst will hold a public hearing on 03/23/2023 at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY for the following:

Petition of GUTTMAN

MOSES

Premises: 319 PACIFIC AVE

Sec/Blk/Lot 39/349/207

Case # 2023-005

BUILDING ADDITIONS & INTERIOR RENOVATION

Variance from:

265-40 A. Front yards. A front yard of 25 feet shall be required.

265-41 A Side Yards

A side yard is required along each side of a building.

A. The side yards along the sides of a building used exclusively as a

herald neighbors

Public Notices

single-family dwelling shall have an aggregate width of no less than 16 feet. Neither side shall be less than six feet in width, except on corner plots, the side yard shall be six feet

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER

NOTICE that all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: March 8, 2023

Cedarhurst, NY

Benjamin Weinstock

Mayor Salvatore Evola Village Clerk-Treasurer

By Order of the Board Of Zoning Appeals 137835

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 3/15/23 at 9:30 A.M. & 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED

STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

180/23. EAST ATLANTIC BEACH - Raymond G. & Staceyann K. O’Brien, Variances, lot area occupied, front yard average setback, rear yard, exceeds number of

stories, construct 3rd story addition to dwelling., W/s Trenton Ave., 118.33’ S/o Beech St., a/k/a 47 Trenton Ave.

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED

STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 194/23. HEWLETT - Meir David Dery for 1346 Davies LLC, Variance, lot area occupied, construct open front portico attached to dwelling., W/s Franklin Ave., 60’ N/o Halsey St., a/k/a 383 Franklin Ave.

ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in East Atlantic Beach & Hewlett within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available a t https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.

137803

LEGAL NOTICE

HEWLETT-WOODMERE

PUBLIC SCHOOLS ONE JOHNSON PLACE WOODMERE, NY 11598-1312

LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Board of Education of the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, Woodmere, NY 11598-1312

Fire Sprinkler Service Bid 2023-2024 School Year

Bids will be received up to 11:00 AM on Friday, March 31, 2023 in the office of the Director of School Facilities & Operations, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, NY 11598-1312.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the above address during school hours.

The Board of Education reserves the right to reject all bids and re-advertise. Any bid submitted will be binding for forty-five (45) after the date of award of the contract.

Debra Sheinin, President Board of Education TO BE PUBLISHED:

Thursday, March 9, 2023

In the Nassau Herald 137788

LEGAL NOTICE

VILLAGE OF LAWRENCE

Legal Notice NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Board of the Incorporated Village of Lawrence will hold a work session beginning at 6:45 P.M. followed by a public meeting on Thursday, March 23rd, 2023 at the Lawrence Village Hall located at 196 Central Ave., Lawrence New York 11559 beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Ski Development 13 LLC as Contract Vendee of 1 Rock Hall Road, Lawrence, New York premises known as Section 40, Block 116, Lot

6, Applicant proposes to sub-divide into fourteen

lots creating thirteen single family homes and leaving the existing pump station as the fourteenth lot.

Samuel Podemski of 383 Broadway, Lawrence, New York 11559 owner of premises known as Section 41 Block 87 Lot 204, Applicant proposes to purchase 264 sq. ft. of land from the adjacent neighbor at 389 Broadway. The application(s) and accompanying exhibit(s) are on file and may be inspected at the Village Office during normal business hours between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

If anyone needs special accommodations for a disability, such person should contact the Village Clerk at least 5 days before the hearing. All interested parties will have the opportunity to be heard.

By Order of the Planning Board.

Fleschner

Five Towns Chabad celebrates its volunteers

rabbi Zalman Wolowik enjoys pointing to the wall in his office that highlights the Chabad of the Five Towns in print and the first story that the Nassau Herald wrote about the Montreal native establishing a Chabad in Cedarhurst.

At the Sands in Atlantic on Monday, the Chabad held its 28th anniversary gala that celebrated leaders and volunteers.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman received the Five Towns Chabad’s

Lamplighter Award.

Gershon and Malka Akerman and David and Anna Zaysev were the guests of honor. Yaakov and Michal Avigdor were recipients of the Gan Chamesh Family Award. Josh and Michele Justic were given the Community Service Award. The 23 Chabads Friendship Circle presidents and 11 CTeen leaders were also honored.

Gan Chamesh Family Award recipients, Yaakov and Michal Avigdor, center, are congratulated by Rabbi Zalman Wolowik and his wife, Chanie Wolowik, far right.

Justine Stefanelli/Herald photos

Rabbi Zalman WoloWik, third from left, with all the Chabad honorees, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, sixth from left.

— Jeffrey Bessen

Five ToWns Chabad guests of honor Malka and Gershon Akerman.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING, AR/AP

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

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

AUTO TECHNICIAN FT

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

AUTO TECHNICIAN WANTED

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

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

BOOKKEEPER P/T EXPERIENCED

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

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

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

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS

WANTED

Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years

Call 516-731-3000

EDITOR/REPORTER

The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry.

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

INVESTIGATOR

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

MOTOR VEHICLE CLERK FT

Valley Stream Subaru Seeking Conscientious, Organized, Computer Literate. Reliable Individual. Will Train If Needed. Family Run Business With Small, Friendly Office Staff. Salary, 401K, Benefits. Ask For Richard Or Therese 516-825-8700

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. We offer salary, commission, bonuses, health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Will consider part time. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

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

HomesHERALD

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

Lido Beach

New Construction

The architect planned one thing, and the plumber did another

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

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

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

vacuum and water heater on demand. You will love the 2-car garage, in-ground sprinklers, fenced yard and plenty of storage. This beauty is close to beach, school, shopping. It is a must see! Asking $1,350,000.

Mazal Amram, Licensed Associate Broker Cell: (516) 782-6331

Office: (516) 889-6677

Email: jamram123@aol.com

Topper Realty 84 East Park Avenue Long Beach, NY 11561

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

OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 3/12/23 HEWLETT

1267 Peninsula Blvd, 2:00-3:30, NEW TO MARKET! 5 BR, 2 Bth Exp Cape in SD#14

(Hewlett-Woodmere) Living Room, DR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK & Bths. Det 1.5 Gar & Driveway for 4/5 Cars. HW Floors. Gas Heat. Near LIRR, Shops, Trans & Schools.

A Steal!

$599,000

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

Insurance Req. MUST SEE THIS! REDUCED!! $1,025,000

1193 E. Broadway # M23, BA, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Stunning

Gut Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Garden Town. Gourmet Kit W/Thermdore St Steel

Appl Opens Into DR & LR. Primary BR w/Bth Plus Spac 2nd BR. W/D in Unit. New Self

Controlled CAC. Oak Flrs, LED Lights. Near LIRR. Parking Avail. SD#14. You Don't Want to

Miss This $379,000

1608 Ridgeway Dr, BA, Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth

Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant

Heated Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20 DRASTIC REDUCTION! MOTIVATED SELLER! $1,399,000 ALSO FOR RENT $6,500 per month

1534 Broadway #103, BA, Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch Style

Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator. Just Move into This Gut Rvated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout.Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet.

Terrace Faces into Courtyard. Garage Parking Incl REDUCED & MOTIVATED!! $699,000

1534 Broadway #205, BA, Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom (Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath

Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back.

Easy Ranch Style Living BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER! $699,000

Ask

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

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

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

© 2022 Monte Leeper

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

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

Results t hat Move You

1202330

HELPING YOU ON YOUR REAL ESTATE JOURNEY

Rob Kolb

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Tripodi

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate

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

Open Houses

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

With Open Layout.Main Floor Mstr Ste Plus Potential Mstr Ste on 2nd Flr.LR/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Sundrenched Family Rm w/ Doors to Deck. Fin Bsmt. Att Gar. Loads of Updates!! SD#20(Lynbrook)No Flood Insurance Req. MUST SEE THIS!..$1,025,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman

516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #103, REDUCED AND MOTIVATED! Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch

Style Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator.

Just Move into This Gut Renovated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout.Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet. Terrace

Faces into Courtyard and the Garage

Parking is Incl..$699,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1608 Ridgeway Dr, Drastic Reduction! Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant Htd Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20...$1,469,000 RENTAL

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

House For Sale

POINT LOOKOUT: WATERFRONT-

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

Apartments For Rent

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

Vacation Rentals/Prop

Apartments For Rent

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

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

Out Of Town/Real Estate

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

MoneyTo Lend

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

Cemetery Plots

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

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

How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service!

Robin Reiss Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Cell: 516.510.6484 Office: 516.623.4500 Robin.Reiss@elliman.com

room and home office.

Taxes: $11,716

Bellmore $700,000

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

Taxes: $13,448.12

Cedarhurst $1,200,000

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

Taxes: $8,372

East Meadow $700,000

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

Taxes: $11,754.12

East Rockaway $710,000

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

Taxes: $17,764.30

Freeport $760,000

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

Taxes: $16,524.30

Long Beach $600,000

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

Taxes: $10,661.35

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

Taxes: $17,839.21

Valley Stream $651,000

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

Taxes: $11,872.36

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements

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

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art & Jewelry

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

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100

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

CRYSTAL STEMWARE (MACY'S). Gorgeous Wine , Water, Champagne. Brand new original boxes $95. 516-225-9191

DINING ROOM FURNITURE wood espresso color $99. (516) 462-2656

DOG CRATE, 24" x 20" x 22" tall, metal tray. $29. call 516-798-2098

Finds Under $100

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

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

KID'S BEDROOM FURNITURE wood honey color $99. (516) 462-2656

LACROSSE BALLS,100, NEW and used, $70, 516-816-7383

PICTURE FRAMES, ALL shapes & sizes, wood, metal, etc. everything under $6. 516-225-9191

SEARS CRAFTSMAN PUSH Reel Lawnmower (old style), $30, Excellent Condition, 516-816-7383

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

SERVICES

Cleaning Services

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

Decks

DECKS DECKS Our Only Business

516-729-5859

Electricians

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.

Home

Licensed / Insured. Free Estimates Nassau License. # H-0102710000 Call John - 516-852-9830

Miscellaneous BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES!

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

Tree Services

T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE

DON'T PAY FOR Covered Home Repairs Again! American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE/ $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 833-398-0526 HANDY DANDY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

* Full Or Partial Kitchens/ Baths *Painting *Sheetrock *Taping/ Spackling *Installations Ceramic/ Vinyl Tile *Carpentry *Alterations *Repairs/ More. FREE ESTIMATES. Dan 516-342-0761

*Tree Removal *Stump Grinding *Pruning *Roof Line Clearing. Residential and Commercial. "We Beat All Competitors' Rates." Lowest Rates. *Senior Discount. Free Estimates. *516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com

Satellite/TV Equipment

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967

GET DIRECTV FOR $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Education

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

Health & Fitness

VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Autos For Sale

ACURA 2003, 3.2 CLS, 2 door, Silver, Black Interior, 160K Plus. Needs Battery. $1800 516-668-8877 runs great

JEEP 2012 LIBERTY: 79,000, Navy Blue, MUST SELL! As is $7500.00. 516 435 3461

Autos Wanted

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$

Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV

The shell game we like to call graduation rates

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

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

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

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

“Wow!” you say.

“Long Island schools are second to none!”

Hold on to your mortarboard.

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

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

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

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

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

“What does this kid need to graduate?”

“Can we give her extra credit?”

“How many points does he need?”

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

It’s a confidence game. Nudge the numbers, appeal to a teacher’s good intentions, and the graduation rate ticks upward.

Floor grades are a neat trick. The

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

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

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

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

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

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

See you on the podium in June, Jimmy!

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

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

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

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

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

Writers will tell the story of our times

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

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

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

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

RANDI KREISS

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

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

In Massachusetts Bay, “eyewitnesses”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They’re misleading statistics that are sometimes unethically abused.

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We must keep government transparent

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

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

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

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

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

letters

Peter King’s return to Washington

To the Editor:

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

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

Who knew this would be cause for nostalgia?

BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre

munists, many without a shred of real evidence.

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

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

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

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

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

dom of Information Act — to obtain that information.

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

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

You.

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

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

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

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

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

The governor’s misguided affordable-housing plan

It appears that Gov. Kathy Hochul has made a conscious decision to declare political war on Long Island.

In her proposed statewide mandate to increase the number of affordable homes by 800,000 units over the next 10 years, Hochul seeks to override local zoning control that is directed, in large measure, by the people who live there. For Long Island, home rule defines our region just as much as Jones Beach and rush hour traffic on the LIE. Make no mistake: Hochul’s housing plan is taking aim at the Island by imposing a 3 percent increase in affordable housing one way or another.

In an effort to couch it in humanitarian terms, she told the State Legislature, “Housing is a human right.” That’s bold rhetoric, but in truth, there is nothing in the federal or state Constitutions stating that housing is a basic right guaranteed by government. On the other hand, our state Constitution says, “Effective local self-government” is one of the “purposes of the people of the state.” Thus, the governor’s intent to allow the state to override local zoning ordinances is contrary

to a basic tenet of our governing document.

If citizens in a democracy wish to support initiatives that provide subsidized housing, then government can invest in efforts such as the New York City Housing Authority. With broken elevators, poorly maintained boilers, lurking crime and other assorted issues, however, you have to admit that NYCHA has proven that government-subsidized housing isn’t exactly a panacea. That may help explain why over 30 percent of those renting from NYCHA didn’t pay their rent last year.

Hochul had a near-death political experience last fall, when Long Island did not give her a majority at the polls. There are a number of reasons for the Island’s antipathy toward her, but one was her earlier call to allow illegal two-family homes to become legal. Yet after retreating from blistering bipartisan opposition to that proposal, she has come back with yet another draconian housing “solution,” one driven more by ideology than market forces. Perhaps her call to dismantle local zoning is her punishment for a region where voters found her the lesser candidate.

Nevertheless, in the interest of building a coalition, Hochul has sent Ruth-

Letters

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

To the Editor:

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

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

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

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

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

probably will only be a handful of honest ones left.

BARBARA HALL

Formerly of Glen Cove

Hochul’s budget takes aim at smoking

To the Editor:

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2024 Executive Budget includes critical tobacco-control policies that, if passed, will reduce youth tobacco initiation rates and adult smoking rates, thus ensuring a tobacco-free generation. The elimination of flavored tobacco products from retail shelves is a common-sense action that will greatly improve the health of New Yorkers who continue to use tobacco products.

Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in New York. Every year, approximately 4,300 New Yorkers under 18 become daily smokers, with 80 percent of young smokers starting with a flavored tobacco product. Flavored products, including menthol, are enticing to young smokers, and make it more difficult for them to quit once they are addicted to nicotine.

In addition, menthol tobacco products have been disproportionately marketed to Black communities for decades. As a

Anne Visnauskas, commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal, to meet with Long Islanders in the public and private sectors. In 2017, Visnauskas was appointed president and CEO of the New York State Housing Finance Agency, the State of New York Mortgage Agency and the State Affordable Housing Corporation. She previously served as Homes and Community Renewal’s executive deputy commissioner for Housing Development, the Mortgage Insurance Fund, the Office of Community Renewal and the Office of Faith-Based Community Development Services.

All that is fine, Commissioner, but welcome to Long Island.

Just in case you don’t believe our region is specifically targeted in the governor’s public agenda, consider the following. Hochul acknowledges that the majority of communities around the state are already hitting or close to achieving her arbitrary affordable-housing targets — except Long Island. For Nassau and Suffolk, she has set a goal of 38,218 new affordable housing units between 2023 and 2025.

This is not to say Long Island doesn’t have a housing problem. It does. Far too many municipalities here are shutting

down applications for next-generation housing, creating an unforced exodus of young people who will be needed to power the economy, pay the taxes and build the future. But Hochul’s proposed remedy is akin to being held hostage by an Albany now under progressive domination.

If it is passed, it is a certainty that there will be lawsuits, protests and, most important, a response at the voting booths that will jeopardize every elected official who supports the plan. And the political aftershocks will not stop with state and local officials. Much as the issue of crime drove Democrats to cross party lines and vote for Republicans last November, Hochul’s assault on the integrity of local zoning may move Long Island voters to overwhelmingly support the Republican who runs against Democratic U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

While Gillibrand seems to need a GPS to even find Long Island, she will be within reach of voters who intend to express their seething anger over a DemocraticProgressive agenda that destroys the integrity of suburban home rule. She will be another politician who ruefully discovers that you “don’t mess with the Island.”

Ronald J. Rosenberg has been an attorney for 42 years, concentrating in commercial litigation and transactions, and real estate, municipal, zoning and land use law. He founded the Garden City law firm Rosenberg Calica & Birney in 1999.

result, the tobacco industry has profited from the creation of generations of longterm nicotine addiction and devastating health consequences.

Now is the time to take action against Big Tobacco’s shrewd and manipulative marketing tactics. I urge the State Legis-

lature to pass the proposed budget and protect young New Yorkers from tobaccorelated death and disease.

MAUREEN KENNEY Division director, American Lung Association Hauppauge

Framework by Tim Baker

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

Hochul’s draconian housing ‘solution’ is driven more by ideology than market forces.

ronaLd J. rosenBerG