Valley Stream Herald 05-25-2023

Rep. D’Esposito visits Israel

Page 2

NCPD toasts 98 years

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Herald cheers top lawyers

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Shaw rocked by principal’s plan to depart

By JUAN lASSo jlasso@liherald.com

Shaw Avenue Principal Christopher Colarossi is resigning and stepping away from Valley Stream District 30, bringing an abrupt end to a more than three-year run. Colarossi was elevated to his position in 2019 after serving as the school’s assistant principal in 2015.

The Valley Stream District Board of Education officially accepted his letter of resignation at its regular business meeting on May 15. His last day will be June 30.

The decision has sent shock waves through the Shaw Avenue community. Details about the circumstances surrounding Colarossi’s departure seem to be veiled in secrecy, adding to the surprising nature of the news.

When asked if parents were given prior notice of Colarossi’s resignation in the lead-up to the board meeting, Superintendent Roxanne GarciaFrance said, “The district does not comment on personnel matters.”

But parents said that news of Colarossi’s impending

Continued on page 20

Jim Zabatta is V.S. Republican Club’s Person of the Year

By JUAN lASSo jlasso@liherald.com

The Valley Stream Republican Club presented its annual Person of the Year award to Jimmy Zabatta, the president of the Valley Stream Lions Club.

Village officials, Republican dignitaries, and Valley Stream residents came out in force, packing American Legion Post 854 to celebrate Zabatta.

“This is incredible. I want to thank you all for being here,” Zabatta said. “I’m also glad that I’m a registered Republican. (Registering) is probably the only thing I did that my father told me to do!”

Zabatta, 69, has been involved with numerous clubs and organizations throughout the village.

He has served on the fundraising committee for the Holy Name of Mary Elementary School and taught religious education there.

He has served as president, vice president, and treasurer of the Valley Stream Rod and Gun Club, and edited its newsletter.

He has also volunteered with Boy Scouts Troop 109, was a member of the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce, and served on the boards of the Valley Stream Youth Council and the Community Fest and Car Show. Most notable, though, is his involvement with the Lions

Club, which he joined in 1986.

“Initially, he joined the Lions Club in 1986 to promote his business,” Sharon Daly, a club member, recalled. “However, when he saw firsthand the good work of the club, he was truly hooked. Our honoree has served as president, vice president, and treasurer of the Valley Stream Lions Club. His dedication and commitment to this organization is beyond measure. His enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s mostly because of him that all these programs sponsored by the Valley Stream Lions Club were so successful. He just doesn’t quit.”

Zabatta attended and graduated from Holy Name of Mary Ele-

mentary School, Valley Stream Central High School, Nassau Community College and Adelphi University.

He met his wife, Cheryl, at a pub in Valley Stream, and the two were married on May 27, 1978. They have three children — Venessa, James and Miranda — and still live in the village.

“Growing up in Valley Stream

was the best,” Zabatta said. “We had the best childhood. It was the best place to grow up. . . . We have nice, warm friends who are here tonight, and Cheryl and I are so glad we chose to stay here in Valley Stream. It’s the best place to live in New York.”

Zabatta’s family history dates back nearly 80 years in the vil-

Continued on page 20

Juan Lasso/Herald

SHAw AVENUE PRINCIPAl Christopher Colarossi, left, will step down on June 30, to the dismay of parents and teachers.

D’Esposito wants George Santos out of Congress

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

It has been a busy week on the House floor, especially for U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito. He not only passed his Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights, but spoke out in support of a resolution to expel his fellow Long Island Republican representative, George Santos.

The resolution was reportedly first introduced by a Democratic House member from California, U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia.

Santos was indicted this month, accusing him of 13 counts of wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds, and making materially false statements to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Last week, D’Esposito took to the podium to urge the bipartisan House Ethics Committee to take swift action in getting rid Santos, who he called a “pathological liar.” The House ultimately voted to refer the resolution to the House Ethics Committee instead of voting on the resolution itself.

“I was the first member of Congress to say that he should resign, but unfortunately, the fact of the matter is that in order for a member to be expelled, you need two thirds of the vote of Congress,” D’Esposito said. “They don’t have the numbers, so that’s the problem.

“I don’t think that George should serve another day in Congress. The quickest way to rid this institution of this stain is to refer this issue to the House Ethics Committee.”

With 18 months to go until the general election, seven candidates have already put their hats in the ring looking to take over Santos’ district. Former Democratic Hempstead town supervisor Laura Gillen and Olympian Sarah Hughes seek to face D’Esposito for his seat in the fourth congressional district.

Gillen lost to D’Esposito in November’s election, but recently said in her official announcement she is running

again “because public service can be a noble calling that makes people’s lives better.” However, “too many in Washington care about political gamesmanship, sound bites and photo opportunities than actually making real progress for our families.”

Gillen previously told the Herald one of the reasons she decided to run was because of the Republican position on the national debt crisis. The GOP insist President Biden reduce spending before they will agree to raise the debt ceiling.

D’Esposito recently helped House Republicans pass the Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023, which is intended to

increase the federal debt limit and decrease spending. The bill also quashes several tax credits, modifies the permitting process and other requirements for energy projects, expands work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and nullifies actions by the federal education department to suspend federal student loan payments, discharge debt and implement a new income-driven repayment plan.

D’Esposito dispelled concerns the bill would make financial cuts to Veterans Affairs. Instead, he said it essentially caps discretionary spending and decreases the spending level for fiscal 2024.

“It grows the economy, it saves taxpayers money, and it protects veterans, defense spending, Social Security and Medicare,” D’Esposito said. “We believe the Limit, Save, Grow Act is exactly what this country needed, and more importantly, it was this first step in negotiations with the president and the Senate.”

With the Santos “stain” potentially damaging the reputation of the Republican Party, Democrats could come out in full force to reclaim his district, D’Esposito’s and others to take back the House, where the GOP maintains a very slim majority.

Reflecting on the policies and efforts brought forth by his colleagues such as Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, D’Esposito believes voters aren’t focused on the alleged misdeeds of one man, but looking at what the party is doing as a whole.

“I don’t believe Santos has tainted Republicans,” D’Esposito said. “I think voters see that the Republican way of governing Nassau County and Long Island is the right one.

“I’m preparing the same way I’ve prepared for every election in my life, and that is working hard now. It’s delivering on promises.”

Courtesy Matthew Capp

U.S. Rep. ANThONy D’Esposito passed a motion in the House of Representatives on May 17 to send the case of Long Island colleague to the House Ethics Committee.

Four new Lynbrook Eagle Scouts honored

Troop 116 of Valley Stream celebrates four new Eagle Scouts at Eagle Court of Honor

Four Boy Scouts from Troop 116 of Valley Stream achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout on May 13.

The Scouts — all from Lynbrook — were celebrated during an Eagle Scout Court of Honor for their outstanding achievement. Only 2 percent of Boy Scouts earn the highest honor in scouting. Famous people in American business, science, politics and more are Eagle Scouts, including Neil Armstrong, Martin Luther King, Jr., Bill Gates, Michael Jordan, and many more.

The Troop 116 event took place at Holy Name of Mary in Valley Stream.

Lucas Colonna

Lucas started his journey as a member of the Scouts of America in 2015 when he became a Scout at the age of 11. Lucas was a Cub Scout when he was in elementary school, and at an early age was drawn to the camaraderie and adventurous spirit of the organization. Lucas participated in many of the camping trips and particularly enjoyed his weeks at the Onteora Scout Reservation summer camp. He went to Onteora each year with his fellow troop members.

As Lucas progressed through the ranks of the scouts becoming a Den Chief and then an Assistant Patrol Leader, he participated in a variety of activities and earned numerous merit badges, including: Aviation, Welding, Archery, First Aid and many more.

The part of scouting that most inspired him was the organization’s dedication to serving the community. Over the course of his scouting career, Lucas helped at beach clean ups, assisted fellow scouts in building, clearing and cleaning community areas for various eagle scout projects including refurbishing an old piece of playground equipment for a local nursery school.

In 2020, he reached a major milestone in his scouting journey when he completed his Eagle Scout project. His project involved clearing and marking nine miles of hiking trails for the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn. The project began in 2019 with Lucas, his family and a team of Boy Scouts from Troop 116 raking, mowing and weeding through overgrown brush and fallen branches.

He worked tirelessly to coordinate the efforts of his fellow scouts and volunteers, ensuring that the project was completed on time and to a high standard of quality. Once the trails were cleared, markers were installed and it has now been easier for visitors to explore the beautiful grounds of the museum, and he hopes his work will be enjoyed by generations of hikers to come.

Robert Munafo

Robert Munafo lives in Lynbrook and attends Valley Stream South High School. He plays both varsity volleyball and lacrosse. He’s an all county saxophone musician, in the Key Club and National Honor Society, and earned the NYS Seal of Biliteracy. He is also a Lynbrook junior

firefighter. In the fall he will be attending the University of Florida pursuing a dual major in aerospace and mechanical engineering.

Robert’s Eagle project was the design, construction, and installation of an information board at Intercommunity Nursery School, where he attended as a preschooler.

Communication between the parents and staff of inter-community is crucial, and during the pandemic, face-to-face communication was difficult due to social distancing and limitations on entering the building. The project included locating the proper site, digging foundations below the frost line, setting posts, and ultimately building and erecting the information board, all of which was made more difficult by the disruptions in the supply chain experienced after the pandemic. The project was successfully completed and is currently in use at the school.

Ethan Palacio

Ethan has been a Scout since 2011 where he grew to love the outdoors and all the adventures that come with it. Ethan bridged over to Boy Scouts in 2016 and was eager to experience all that was ahead. While Ethan originally joined Troop 332 in East Rockaway, after spending a summer with Troop 116 at Onteora, he knew that he had found his place.

During his time in Troop 116, Ethan has held the roles of Den Chief, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, and is currently the Senior Patrol Leader of the Troop. During his years in scouts Ethan has made many lifelong connections with peers and leaders. Ethan has completed a total of 43 merit badges with his favorite being Wilderness Survival which he completed while at Onteora. Ethan loved connecting with nature and building his own shelter out of his surroundings. Ethan’s

favorite scout skill is First Aid which connects with his passion for medicine and helping others.

Ethan’s Eagle Project was to complete a renovation at the Holy Name of Mary Convent. The project was extensive and took many months of planning and hard work to transform the basement into a usable space that will serve community groups for many years to come. The renovation involved several of his friends, family, and fellow scouts who put in over 400 hours of work making the space look beautiful.

Outside of Scouts Ethan has been involved in many different activities. Ethan has been a member of the varsity cross country team throughout high school, and this year took on the role of captain of his school’s robotics team. Ethan is also a member of the Science Research program at Lynbrook High School.

In the fall, Ethan will be attending SUNY Albany where he will be studying Human Biology on a Pre-Health track.

Andrew Schiller

Andrew is honored to be recognized for his achievements at this Eagle Court of Honor. He has been in the scouting program since he was 6 years old, and he has thoroughly enjoyed taking part in camping and other activities. He has held the positions of Den Chief, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader.

Outside of scouts, Andrew can often be found in one or several musicals, plays, skits, or other shows. He was also the captain of the Engineering Notebook for the Lynbrook Artificially Intelligent Mechanical Owls. He will be attending Binghamton University as a member of the Scholars Program.

The thing that Andrew enjoys the most about scouts is making memories with his peers, but also getting to see those younger than him make the same memories as he once did.

Andrew’s Eagle Project was one very personal to him. He restored the playground at his local Temple/Pre-school hybrid, Temple Am-Echad. This included repainting the benches, clipping back growth, ripping up weeds, filling cracks in the blacktop, and building a new playhouse. Andrew is grateful for the opportunity to do his Eagle Project. Through the experience, he improved socially, learning how to lead, but also how to rely on others where necessary. He would like to thank his scoutmasters, fellow scouts, parents, religious instructors, and other friends and family members for their support.

–Mark Nolan

Maureen Lennon/Herald photos NEwLy-MiNtEd EAgLE SCoutS Andrew Schiller, left, Ethan Palacio, Robert Munafo, and Lucas Colonna.

gEoRgE SChuChMAN, ChARtER Organization Representative, presented citations to the Eagle Scouts.

Valley Stream mother-son duo plead guilty to murder

A Valley Stream mother and her son pleaded guilty to the fatal shooting of a 27-year-old Far Rockaway man in 2020, the Queen’s district attorney’s office said.

Avita Campbell, 40, and Raymond Jackson, 24, were charged with manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon before Queens Supreme Court Justice Ushir Pandit-Durant on May 16.

Campbell also pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of personal identification. Both will be sentenced on June 5. Campbell is expected to receive up to 22 years in prison and her son, up to 24 years. Both are also expected to receive five extra years of postrelease supervision.

The shooting occurred over a money dispute on Sept. 23, 2020, according to prosecutors. Lassau Lawrence, of Far Rockaway, went to Campbell’s home to recover money he believed Jackson owed him for a car repair. A fight then broke out between Lawrence and Jackson.

Later that day, at around 6 p.m. surveillance footage shows the armed mother-son duo getting out of their

white BMW on Beach 31st Street in Far Rockaway to assault Lawrence who was in a parked car nearby.

Jackson, carrying a shotgun, opened fire on Lawrence as bullets tore through his body. Campbell, wielding a metal pipe, bashed the front windshield of Lawrence’s car. The two got back in their car and drove off, leaving Campbell, who died of his injuries.

A month later, police pulled Campbell for what they called a routine traffic stop and searched the car under a court-authorized search warrant, discovering a loaded silver and black handgun.

The gun was seized and tested, revealed to be an identical match to the one used to kill Lawrence weeks ago. Police also discovered a notebook and spreadsheet with hundreds of names, addresses, and social security numbers, prosecutors said were used for fraud.

Police detained Jackson in Florida in December 2020 and extradited him back to New York.

–Juan Lasso

with Michael and Suzanne Ettinger Attorneys-at-Law

Home Care with Community Medicaid

Home care paid for by New York State is known as “Community Medicaid”. Paying your own living expenses, plus the cost of caregiving services, is beyond the means of many.

Since 2020, there have been numerous attempts to create a new thirty month lookback period for Community Medicaid eligibility. So far, none of these attempts have been successful and now 2024 is the earliest expected date for implementation. There is no current look-back period for Community Medicaid in New York. This means that you may move assets out of your name this month and obtain Medicaid home care benefits next month, provided you need the care.

Currently, an individual may keep about $1,700 per month plus the amount of any health care insurance premiums. Any excess income must be used towards their care. What if your living expenses exceed $1,700 per month? Enter the “pooled income trust”.

Certified by the state, pooled income trusts are used to allow you to send your

excess income, i.e. the amount over the $1,700 per month you are allowed to keep, to the trust along with copies of your bills for food, rent, mortgage, utilities, home repairs, etc. The trust pays your bills and any amounts unused will accumulate in your account and eventually be added to the “pool” to be used for charitable purposes after your death. Any monies paid to the pooled income trust are not counted as income for Medicaid purposes, allowing you to qualify for Community Medicaid.

The number of hours you will receive depends on the county’s assessment of your needs regarding the activities of daily living (ADL’s). Some of these are eating, bathing, shopping, cooking, personal hygiene, ambulating, housekeeping, dressing, etc.

Several non-profit organizations exist that offer pooled trusts. Applying to join is a formal process with which the elder law firm will assist. Costs generally include minimal start-up fees, an initial deposit and reasonable maintenance fees.

Nassau Rotary honors Plattduetsche manager

The Central Nassau County Rotary Club hosted over 150 people at its annual dinner on May 18 at the Plattduetsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square, where this year’s theme was “Feed the Hungry and Help the Needy.”

Matt Buck, general manager of Plattduetsche, was honored for his efforts as secretary of Rock Out Cures, Inc. The charity helps families in the community that are dealing with the impacts of cancer and other diseases.

Buck’s foundation also provides scholarships to outstanding high school seniors who show dedication to not only their studies, but to their community.

Buck, Rock Out Cures’ president Bryan Mayer and vice president James Gangone received distinguished Paul Harris awards as well for their philanthropy.

The Central Nassau County Rotary Club is always looking for new members. Individuals who enjoy connecting with others in the community can do so through the Rotary, which meets weekly in person and on Zoom. For more information on where and how to attend the next meeting, visit CentralNassauCountyRotary.org.

–Ana Borruto

Fax: (516) 622-7460

■

Courtesy Bill Youngfert Rony KessleR, left, incoming Rotary Club president James Gangone, vice president of Rock Out Cures, secretary of Rock Out Cures Matt Buck and Rock Out Cures’ president Bryan Mayer.

SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is the nation’s largest youth employment program, connecting the Town of Hempstead (TOH) and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 with career exploration opportunities and paid work experience each summer.

By participating in structured project and work-based opportunities, Long Island youth are better prepared for careers of the future.

WHAT THE PROGRAM OFFERS

Career Exploration: Hone your research skills and uncover exciting new career possibilities.

Structured Work-based Opportunities: If you're a TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20, you can get paid to learn about different careers and make a positive impact in your community through work-based activities.

Work Experiences: TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 can develop job readiness skills and explore diverse career pathways through paid summer jobs in various industries throughout Nassau County.

Earn Money: Don't miss out on the chance to earn money while gaining valuable experience and exploring your career options!

WORKSITE PARTNERS

Partner with the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) at HempsteadWorks and provide valuable work experience to youth while expanding your business's staff at no cost. The program pays participant wages in full, so there's no financial burden on the hosting employer. As a SYEP worksite, you can play a vital role in the region's economic development and access a pool of talented, hyperlocal youth who are the future workforce.

Please review the important information below for details on this summer's program.

SYEP 2023:

Participants can work up to 30 hours per week

Rate of pay is $16 per hour, paid by the TOH Participants go through physical clearance and drug screening

Worksite Responsibilities:

Ensuring youth time and attendance procedures are followed, and the timesheets are complete and accurate Supervision of participants, along with guidance and training as appropriate Monitoring youth attendance, punctuality, and job performance

Don Clavin Supervisor

spotlight athlete

VSN wins 13 in storybook year

By gaRRett D. URiBe sports@liherald.com

At a critical moment midway through her team’s trailblazing softball season, Valley Stream North junior first baseman Emily Rung went rogue.

Sitting 7-2 on April 19, the Spartans had already ensured their best record in six seasons under coach Dan Tronolone, and now they’d gone into extra innings at Nassau Conference 3 rival South Side.

KieRaN Kehoe

Mepham Junior Baseball

it DiDN’t taKe long for Kehoe to work his way into the heart of the Pirates’ batting order this spring. He began the season hot and quickly caught fire, earning All-County honors and maybe more. He finished the regular season with 5 homers and 37 RBIs to go with a whopping .650 batting average and 1.100 slugging percentage. Then in Mepham’s Class A playoff opener he blasted another home run and drove in three to lead a victory over Carey.

laCRosse playoffs

Boys laCRosse

thursday, May 25

Class A semifinals at Hofstra 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.

friday, May 26

Class C semifinals at Hoftra 4 and 6 p.m.

Monday, May 30

Class A championship game at Hofstra 5 p.m.

Class B championship game at Hoftra 7:30 p.m.

tuesday, May 31

Class C championship game at Hofstra 5 p.m.

Class D championship game at Hoftra 7:30 p.m.

giRls laCRosse

tuesday, May 31

Class D championship game at Adelphi 5:30 p.m.

Class A championship game at Adelphi 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, June 1

Class B championship game at Adelphi 5:30 p.m.

Class C championship game at Adelphi 7:30 p.m.

Looking to aid a planned steal attempt by three-time All-County catcher Kayla Santo, who had doubled for VSN leading off the eighth, Tronolone sent the sign in to batter Rung: fake bunt. Rung nodded, but overrode, opting to keep it real. Her bunt was so well-paced Santo raced home from second with the winning run. VSN –long accustomed to sub.-500 finishes –notched its eighth win in nine games, 3-2 over South Side, as a new reality set in.

“I think from that point on the girls started believing they were legit,” said Tronolone, whose club finished third in Conference 3 at 11-5, 13-6 overall, to post its first winning season in Tronolone’s tenure and most wins in more than a decade.

As for Rung’s executive decision? “It worked,” Tronolone said succinctly. “We won.”

Indeed. Led by pitching ace Christina Ravo – who doubled her previous season high to rank second in Conference 3 with 12 wins and set career marks in strikeouts (144) and earned run average (1.43) in earning All-County honors – VSN reached double digits in wins for the first time in 12 seasons.

“I told the girls early that, while it maybe wasn’t necessarily the case in years past, they really were capable of winning,” Tronolone said. “It took a while, but at a certain point, after so many wins, they started to believe.”

In a storybook season that at times strained even the credulity of its authors, perhaps no part was more implausible than the ending. Due in large part to a new postseason format, the Spartans – whose league record matched second-place rival Baldwin’s – were shut out of this year’s county Class A playoffs, ending a streak of

four straight postseason berths.

“It’s disappointing,” Tronolone said. “But overall, the season was a success. The girls invested and it showed. It’s one of the best teams I’ve coached.”

Along with seniors Santo and Ravo –club leaders with three and two home runs, respectively – VSN’s awardees this spring included freshman outfielder Tiffany Melendez, who led the Spartans batting .569 and stole a team-best 15 bases in her second straight Honorable Mention AllCounty campaign, while junior shortstop Alyanna Nadal (.324 average) took All-Conference honors for her two-way contributions.

Spartans senior Grace Mastandrea –who parlayed a stint subbing at catcher into a regular lineup spot, shifting to DH and right field after Santo’s return from an early-season injury – hit .423 to finish fourth on the team in batting. “We couldn’t take Grace out,” Trononlone said. “She became very important to our lineup.”

“This whole group of kids worked hard, never missed practice, and it showed in the results,” Tronolone summarized. “They actually cared, which was nice to see. And they had by far the best chemistry of any team I’ve coached.”

“They had fun, too,” he added. “And I think that translated to more wins.”

Neil Miller/Herald photo JUNioR shoRtstop alyaNNa Nadal (.324 average) took All-Conference honors for her two-way contributions for the breakthrough Spartans.

Voted Long Island’s Best Sports Camp two years in a row.

Hofstra’s Sports Academy Camps offer boys and girls in grades 2-12 the opportunity to learn from Hofstra’s Division I coaching staff while playing in state-of-the-art stadiums, fields, and practice facilities. In any of our 13 sports camps, players improve on the fundamentals in their chosen sport through a variety of instructional clinics, drills, and competitive gameplay. Camps are run in one-week sessions so you can customize the summer around your schedule.

Learn more about our award winning Sports Academy Camps by visiting the website at hofstra.edu/licamp or by calling (516)-463-CAMP

NCPD celebrates 98 years with open house

By KaRina KOVac kkovac@liherald.com

It’s not quite a century, but when anything reaches the ripe age of 98, it’s certainly time to celebrate. And that’s what he Nassau County Police Department did recently with its second annual open house — a three-day event at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence, that attracted somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,000 people each day.

Among those helping the department celebrate its near-milestone were groups of students from various schools who gathered to see demonstrations, learn more about the history of the department at the police museum, and visiting Children’s Safety Town.

“We have progressed like the rest of the country has with police reform and the needs, as technology advances, as types of guns on the street, drugs, different ways to commit crimes” have advanced, we have advanced,” police commissioner Patrick Ryder said. “We are very fortunate here in Nassau County that we are, I like to say, ahead of the curve.”

Staying ahead of the curve means undertaking a new training village that will replace the usual tactical training the department has done since 1925 with what Ryder describes as a more accurately simulated real-life scenario. It’ll be complete with different locations such as a school, house of worship, different types of residences, a bank, a police station, and even a train station with a trestle and platform for specialized situational training.

Through new technology and analytics, the department can adjust to the complexities modern law enforcement can encounter out in the field, Ryder said.

“Life has gotten complicated with the amount of mental health crisis people out

there” are experiencing, Ryder said. “How do we do it? And how do we do it better?

It’s a challenge for us every day. We’re working to make it better.”

The open house aimed not only to familiarize the public with police work, but also to bridge any divide in communities where trusting the police could be lacking. Ryder acknowledged past mistakes and said the department is committed to moving forward with the public’s support. And really, in the long run, they are the good guys, after all.

“We’re here to help,” he said. “You know, yeah, sometimes you’re dealing with bad things. Things happen, and you know, people are upset. We got that. We understand that. But we want them to understand. We’re here to help you. And trust in us. We’ve got to build that trust.

“We know we have errors. We’ve made mistakes. We want to get better.”

One attendee eager to see the police was Jack Mallon. The 2-year-old wore a police vest and enjoyed the repelling demonstration.

“We came just to show him a little bit and to support the police and get his interest piqued a little bit,” said Christina Mallon, Jack’s mother.

It’s important to support law enforcement, she added, because “they do so much for us so we should do a little bit for them.”

Visitors watched an array of demonstrations beyond repelling like using the Jaws of Life to help rescue people from crashed cars, and a display of police canines. Officer Michael Leone, one of the officers involved in the K-9 demonstration, was signing specialty made K-9 cards given to the kids after the display — something they could take home as a souvenir.

It was “exhilarating” to see the kids rush him for autographs, Leone said, adding that “it’s nice to be appreciated by the public.”

Steve Dembo took his children out of school early to attend some of the open house. He knew it was law enforcement

week, so he reached out to the department to see if anything was going on, and found out about the training center event he knew his two children would enjoy.

“I think it’s important for them to see what the police officers do every day,” Dembo said. “It’s interesting. They’re interested in it.”

Together, the family saw the repel demonstration, the new state-of-the-art robot dog, and even met the motorcycle unit.

“They love really everything so far,” Dembo said. And that allowed the dad to take his kids home with them the lesson that “police are your friends, and if you have any kind of trouble at all, they’ll help you.

“It’s very important that kids know that,” Dembo added. “Not to be afraid of them.”

Karina Kovac/Herald photos

Oceanside schOOl nO 4 was just one of several schools taking a field trip to an open house hosted by the Nassau County Police Department at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence, just in time for the organization’s 98th anniversary. More than a thousand people came to each of the three days of the event.

nassau cOunty POlice Department commissioner Patrick Ryder stands in front of a repelling demonstration off the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence, where the department celebrated its 98th anniversary recently with an open house.

Tim Baker/Herald the gRand finale at the end of the recent Nassau County Police Department open house at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence was the take-off of the police helicopter.

Celebrating 30 years of pride with PFY

LGBTQ organization looks ahead to what still needs to be done

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

As PFY is gearing up to celebrate the month of pride in June, and the LGBTQ community in general, this year it is also celebrating its own history, as 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the agency, which was the first of its kind in a suburban setting in the United States.

PFY, which formerly stood for Pride For Youth, is now known simply by its acronym, because a grant allowed the organization to expand the reach of its services, and it now provides lifelong assistance to anyone who identifies as LGBTQ on Long Island and in Queens.

The Bellmore-based organization was founded 30 years ago as an offshoot of the Long Island Crisis Center, Tawni Engel, the associate executive director of the crisis center and PFY, explained, because its founders recognized the need for services for LGBTQ individuals.

The crisis center operates a 24/7 hotline for people with mental health crises, and in the early 1990s, Linda Leonard, its former executive director, noticed an influx of calls from members of the LGBTQ community, Engel said.

“Really over the years, it’s grown exponentially into what it is today,” Engel said of PFY. “And back then, with society, the climate was very different — things were very different.”

The crisis center actually lost funding from private and public donors in the 1990s because they didn’t want to support organizations catering to the LGBTQ community, Engel said.

“I will say that we did the right thing, obviously,” she said. “What we’re sort of known for is just saying, no, we want to meet the needs, and the needs that we are seeing. There’s obviously a gap in services, and we want to be the ones saying we’re filling that gap.”

Devon Zappasodi, PFY’s director, said that as the organization celebrates the momentous anniversary, it is also important to reflect on the work that still needs to be done.

“It’s really exciting when we’re growing and creating these new, innovative programs that are really meeting

needs and helping folks,” Zappasodi said. “But there’s also, like, this somber tone, because, you know, we’re growing and growing, but then there are still needs that are just unmet.”

Some of the problems facing the LGBTQ community today include food insecurity, the inability to obtain consistent housing and job insecurity, among others. Many people struggle with their mental health, and with accessing and understanding health care services, and PFY works constantly to make sure those issues are addressed.

At the organization’s 2050 Bellmore Road location and at its Suffolk County center in Deer Park, it offers rapid HIV and syphilis testing. PFY recently partnered with the Suffolk County Department of Health to run a mobile medical clinic, where things like free Covid-19 and HPV vaccinations were offered. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause long-term issues such as cancer if untreated.

To celebrate the anniversary and Pride Month, the organization has an upcoming Pride Gala on June 13 at the Westbury Manor. Ninety-four percent of all proceeds will be devoted to helping the LGBTQ community through PFY’s services.

Attendees will hear from award-winning actor Maulik Pancholy, who is openly gay and known for his role in the sitcom “30 Rock,” among other series. For information on the gala, visit tinyurl.com/PFYEvent2023, and for more on the agency, visit LICCPFY.org.

We’re “always keeping the community close to us,” Zappasodi said, “because without them, we’re nothing — it’s really coming from them — 30 years of working with and in collaboration with the community.”

Courtesy Tawni Engel

PFY, thE ORgANizAtiON previously know as Pride for Youth, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and gearing up for Pride Month in June.

‘Human error’ caused mailers to ID voters as Dems

By MICHAEL MALASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

Anyone receiving a voter mail check card erroneously identifying them as a registered Democrat, there are a few things to know.

First, it was caused by human error. Second, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman does not want any blame to be leveled at county Democrats.

According to Blakeman, in the past couple of weeks, the county has fielded many calls from disgruntled voters claiming that they received these cards that misidentified their voter registration over the past couple weeks, Blakeman — a Republican — said. There also were claims that other details like township and Assembly district were also incorrect.

But there is no conspiracy, Blakeman said. Instead, it was a simple mistake admitted to by Phoenix Graphics, the vendor used by the county elections board to print and distribute these cards.

“The voter check cards were sent out with information on a card about people and where they’re supposed to vote, what district they’re in, and what their registration was,” Blakeman told reporters at a recent news conference. “In this circumstance, everyone was identified as a Democrat. Not Republican. Not Working Families. Not the Green Party. So obviously, you can imagine that people who are Republicans or in another party were very concerned that their registration had been changed by someone else.”

Bruce Blakeman displays a voter card he says was sent to a voter in his jurisdiction, incorrectly labeling them as a registered Democrat. According to Phoenix Graphics, the vendor used by the county elections board, a number of voter cards were misprinted with the wrong party — a mistake caused by human error.

wrong — like township or Assembly district — could add to that confusion caused by this issue.

cards are not. That is the disconnect.”

Phoenix Graphics is based out of Rochester, and while admitting to “human error” over the party affiliation, did claim no other part of the card was incorrect.

“As soon as it was discovered, we moved immediately to remedy the situation,” the company said, in a statement.

“This is an isolated event, but we apologize for our mistake, especially to Nassau County officials, who bear no responsibility for this problem. We have fixed the error and, at no cost to taxpayers, will deliver corrected voter information cards as soon as possible.”

In recent years, voter fraud concerns have risen nationwide, with many Republicans blaming Democrats for creating such situations, despite presenting little — if any — evidence to back up those claims. The most prominent case involves former president Donald Trump, who continue to state the 2020 election was stolen from him — once again with no evidence to support the claim.

But Blakeman does not wish to see that kind of sentiment rise in Nassau.

“I don’t think the Democratic Party is engaged in a conspiracy to create havoc in their own primary side,” the county executive said. “I would assume that the Democratic Party doesn’t want a bunch of Republicans showing up for their primary. So, I don’t think there’s anything nefarious on the part of the Democratic Party.

This has spurred concern that voters could be confused about how they can vote in upcoming primaries, thinking their registration has been changed. Another potential concern is that the other details that could be

Blakeman says he’s reached out to the elections board, and is working to not only resolve this, but ensure it doesn’t occur again.

“If you got this, don’t go vote in the Democratic primary,” he added. “The voters rolls are accurate. These

“With respect to my party, I wouldn’t want a bunch of Democrats voting in our primaries.”

The county elections board said voters can expect registration cards with the correct information coming to their mailbox ahead of the primary elections in late June.

Community in the Community

Atria Glen Cove is an Assisted Living Community, and “community” is the operative word. Not only are our residents a close knit and friendly community amongst themselves, but they are also vitally connected to the Glen Cove community at large.

Engage Life Director Lauren Otters provides many opportunities for connection to places, people, and events beyond our walls. Residents are fully a part of the outside world:

• Regular visits to a house of worship.

• Visits to the library, and local stores.

• Eating out at favorite restaurants.

• Excursions to cultural events at arts centers, schools, and local parks.

• Outings to historic locations.

• Participation in fund raisers and charitable endeavors. These activities give our residents continuing involvement in the Glen Cove Community, provide a sense of normalcy, and make opportunities to build new memories.

Atria Glen Cove’s recent honors:

(above) Residents Betty Gaffney, Rose Fuhrmann, and Sally Famiglietti with Edward Lieberman, former local mayor, who delighted our participants with his informative historical lecture on a tour that wound its way from Glen Cove to Jones Beach. (right ) Dorothy Grader and Jack Goering enjoyed the trip too.

The Doo-Wop Spectacular at the Tilles Center brought back fun memories for (left ) Betty Gaffney, Rose Donnelly, and Rita Bloom, (right ) Dominick Nicastro, and Victoria Drewes.

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald NASSAu CouNtY ExECutIvE

Contact Judith Rivera, Director of Community Sales, to discuss your future home at Atria Glen Cove. judith.rivera@atriaseniorliving.com

V.S. 24 students take a trip to the Ashokan Center

Sixth-grade students from all three Valley Stream 24 Schools recently went on their annual overnight field trip to The Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York for an outdoor educational experience. Accompanying the students on the trip were Scott Comis, Principal of Brooklyn Avenue Elementary School and Rosario Iacono, Principal of Robert W. Carbonaro Elementary School.

“Field trips are an important part of the elementary school experience because they provide a fun and engaging opportunity for our students to learn outside of their classrooms,” said Superintendent Don Sturz.

“Our students are able to make long-lasting memories as well as experience hands-on learning, real-world connections, socialization, and exposure to new experiences.”

The sixth-grade students worked cooperatively during their outdoor adventures as well as other activities including preparing meals together. Students had the opportunity to learn about nature and how to respect the outdoor environment. The highlight of the trip was learning about wild birds of prey and other animals.

–Juan Lasso

Valley Stream 24 sixth-grade students on their outdoor adventure to the Ashokan Center.

STEPPING OUT

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

Looktotheskies atthe Bethpage AirShow

By Karen Bloom

t’s the moment we’ve been eagerly awaiting: Memorial Day weekend has arrived. Besides the observances, parades and barbecues, for so many of us, that annual trek to Jones Beach to watch the action overhead during the Bethpage Air Show is a beloved tradition not to be missed. This year’s extravaganza, on Saturday and Sunday, May 27-28, is helmed once again by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

By Karen Bloom

The distinguished squadron, back for their 9th headlining appearance, is joined by other elite military pilots including the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, the U.S. Marines F-35B Demonstration Team, the U.S. Navy F-18 Growler Legacy Team, and the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod Team.

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

The Thunderbirds, “America’s Ambassadors in Blue,” demonstrate the extraordinary capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon — the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet. The elite military pilots proudly showcase the capabilities of the $18 million,19,700-pound fighter aircraft, which can travel at speeds up to 1,500 mph. Grace meets power in this mix of six aircraft performing formation flying and solo routines. Flying only a few feet from wingtip to wingtip, observers can glimpse the superb skills that all fighter pilots must possess.

• May 27-28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dan and Claudia Zanes

minutes of dynamic maneuvers. We’re always improving our planes and refining our routines.”

His team is a close-knit group of five pilots, with decades of military and professional experience.

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

• $10 vehicle use fee

• Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh

“I like to say once you check in you never check out. The camaraderie of our team is what makes us special,” he says.

Pat McGann

All ages will enjoy some Memorial Day weekend fun on the Tilles Center lawn, with Grammy Award-winner Dan Zanes and Haitian-American jazz vocalist Claudia Zanes. They perform a mix of old and new songs from near and far in a style that has been called ‘all-ages social music,’ also described as an all-ages party. This interactive concert will have you dancing and singing along as the duo performs homespun, joyful music for everyone to enjoy. It’s a relaxed performance open to all, with modified sound levels and quiet spaces for those who wish to move around. Zanes occupies a unique place in American music where sea shanties, English music hall, North American and West Indian folk music, party songs, the spirit of early rock-and-roll, and soulful originals collide. Kids will also enjoy games, bubbles, face-painting and crafts, starting at 12:30 p.m., with a barbecue lunch available for purchase.

Saturday, May 27, 2 p.m. $25. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. TillesCenter.org, or (516) 299-3100

BALDWIN HERALD — February 9, 2023

• For up-to-date information, visit BethpageAirShow.com.

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

“We’re thrilled that this is our 20th year with the show. It’s so important to us as it’s our home show. For many of our friends, it’s the only time they get to see us (perform).

We are always excited to be here and put a smile on people’s faces. It’s great fun to fly down low and see everyone on the beach. This is an awesome weekend, and all the performers are great at what they do.”

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

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

Other renowned civilian performers include the always popular Skytypers and their flight squadron of five vintage World War II aircraft. Mike Goulian, North America’s most-decorated aerobatic pilot. Folds of Honor Biplane with Ed Hamill. The American Air Power Museum Warbirds. Long Island’s daredevil pilot David Windmiller. The Warbird Thunder team. The Civil Air Patrol. And the Farmingdale State College Flying Rams, who will fly several of their 22 college-owned aircraft.

The Skytypers, an air show favorite, combine the best of old and new. The team uses five of the remaining World War II-era NA SNJ planes left in the world, meticulously restored with the latest technology.

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

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

“These were Navy scout planes used on missions in World War II and the Korean War,” explains Larry Arken, Skytypers’ flight leader. “We’ve modernized them and give them plenty of TLC. We have to take care of our warbirds. They’ve got quite a military history. They’ve landed on aircraft carriers and as fighter trainers they trained the Greatest Generation.”

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

The Farmingdale-based Skytypers are, of course, a familiar sight along beaches in the northeast with their skytyped messages generated at an altitude of 10,000 feet with puffs of smoke in dot matrix-style letters. Those messages will be on full display during the show, following their aerobatic routine.

“We like to think of this as the largest text message in the world,” Arken says.

Each message is two miles long and as tall as the Empire State building. Visible for 30 miles, they can be seen by 4 million people, according to Arken.

To that end, unlike other recent exhibits that showcased the museum’s permanent collection, Giordano reached out to contemporary artists who loaned the museum their selected works. Some 36 pieces are on view — representing all media — from Emma Amos, Molly Crabapple and the Equal Justice Initiative, For Freedoms, Miguel Luciano, Michele Pred, Hank Willis Thomas, and Sophia Victor.

“The way our climate is now, this exhibit could not be more timely than at this moment,” Albert adds.

His planes’ flying maneuvers also command attention in their five-ship formation.

“We fly low, at 500 feet,” Arken says. “We’re known for our precision skills that involve 18

Among the highlights, she points to the series of prints from the collective For Freedoms. Their four large scale photos are based on Norman Rockwell’s 1943 oil paintings inspired by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1941 State of the Union address that outlined what he considered the essential four democratic values freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. For Freedoms has

Tom Rush and Loudon Wainwright III

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.

Yarn/Wire

Two gifted performers pair up for an exciting double bill on the Landmark stage. These legendary singer-songwriters will enthrall their audience in an evening filled with story-telling, ballads passionate gritty blues. Tom Rush, a gifted musician and performer, offers not just a performance but a musical celebration. His distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice have made him both a legend and a lure to audiences around the world. For the past 52 years, Loudon Wainwright III has carved out a distinguished career as one of our most original singer-songwriters; a six-string diarist with material that is by turns, tongue-in-cheek, tender, sarcastic, heart-wrenching, and always deeply personal. Along the way, he’s released more than 20 albums, won a Grammy, acted in film and television, and had his songs recorded by artists including Johnny Cash, Mose Allison, Bonnie Raitt, and his own son, Rufus Wainwright.

Friday, June 2, 8 p.m. $55, $49, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444, or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

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.

Photos courtesy U.S. Air Force

Airmen and women execute daring manuevers in a thrilling display of the might of the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

THE SCENE

Tom Rush and Loudon Wainwright III

Two gifted performers pair up for an exciting double bill on the Landmark stage, Friday, June 2, 8 p.m. These legendary singer-songwriters will enthrall their audience in an evening filled with storytelling, ballads and gritty blues. Tom Rush, a gifted musician and performer, offers not just a performance but a musical celebration. His distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice have made him both a legend and a lure to audiences around the world. For the past 52 years, Loudon Wainwright III has carved out a distinguished career as one of our most original singer-songwriters, a six-string diarist with material that is by turns, tongue-in-cheek, tender, sarcastic, heart-wrenching, and always deeply personal. Along the way, he’s released over 20 albums, won a Grammy, acted in film and TV, and had his songs recorded by artists including Johnny Cash, Mose Allison, Bonnie Raitt, and his own son, Rufus Wainwright. $55, $49, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

May 25

Delight of Painting

The Village of Valley Stream hosts a Delight of Painting class with Matt Khan, starting Thursday, May 25, at 6:30 p.m. Registration required. For more information, contact (917) 9298110 or visit Vsrec.org.

Breastfeeding Support Group

On exhibit

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

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

Memorial Day Parade

The village of Valley Stream will be hosting their Annual Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 29, starting at 11 a.m., at the corner of Hicks Street and Valley Stream Boulevard. For more information, call (516) 825-4200 or visit their website at Vsvny.org.

Colin Jost

The SNL star brings his standup act to The Paramount stage, Thursday, June 1, 8 p.m. As one of SNL’s main writers, he’s never at a loss for words. $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 7453000 or Ticktmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Matt Khan Art Exhibit

The Valley Stream Historical Society hosts an exhibit of Matt Khan’s artwork, Friday, June 2, at 7 p.m., at Pagan-Fletcher Restoration. 143 Hendrickson Ave. For more information, call (516) 872-4159 or visit Vsvny. org.

Passion for Pride

Support PFY, a division of Long Island Crisis Center, at a 30th Anniversary Benefit celebration, Tuesday, June 13, 6-10 p.m. With drag bingo and performances by Ivy Stalls and Syn; also special guest honoree actor-authoractivist Maulik Pancholy. The event, honoring PFY’s 30 years serving Long Island/Queens’ LGBTQ+ communities, is at Westbury Manor, 1100 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury. For more information and tickets, go to tinyurl.com/pfyevent2023.

Whale of a Drink fundraiser

Support The Whaling Museum by participating in Sandbar restaurant’s Whale of a Drink, Whale of a Cause fundraising effort, now through June 21

Enjoy the Sandbar’s iconic cocktail, the Whalebone, and a portion of the purchase will be donated to the museum. A “mocktail” version is also available. To help promote the fundraiser, mixologist Dan Leopold will offer a mixology demonstration and Whalebone tasting at the Museum’s Whales & Ales event on June 3, 2:30-3 p.m. Funds will support the Whaling Museum’s community education programs during its 2023 summer season. 55 Main St, Cold Spring Harbor. For information, visit SandbarColdSpringHarbor.com.

District 24 meeting

Valley Stream District 24 Board of Education meets, Wednesday, June 7, 7:30 p.m., at William L. Buck School. 75 Horton Ave. For more information, send an email to district clerk Lourdes Onesto at districtclerk@vs24.org or visit ValleyStream24.com.

Having an event?

May 27

Broadway on Long Island

Plaza Theatrical goes to the Greek Isles with this enchanting tale, based on ABBA’s timeless songs, Saturday, May 27, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 28, 2:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 1, 2 p.m. The show features “Dancing Queen” “Super Trooper,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” and more. 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.

District 13 meeting

Valley Stream District 13 Board of Education meets, Wednesday, June 14, at 8 p.m. at James A. Dever School. 585 Corona Ave. For more information, call (516) 5686100 or visit ValleyStream13. com.

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

On stage

Back by popular demand, families will enjoy a musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Wednesday, May 31, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Thursday, June 1, 10:15 a.m. and noon.. Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences. Together with nutty backup singers, The Squirrelles, the comedic duo even gets the audience involved in the action. $9 with museum admission ($7 members), $12 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Westbury House Tour

For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour, Friday, May 26, noon-1 p.m.; Monday, May 29, noon-1 p.m.; Wednesday, May 31, noon-1 p.m. and 1:30-2 p.m. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

May 19

Top lawyers honored for time in, out of office

By MALLORY WILSON mwilson@liherald.com

It was an experience that provided plenty of perspective, including for Frank Torres.

“Whenever I’m honored and recognized for what I do in my field of law, it’s so humbling,” said Torres, an associate attorney with Duffy & Duffy. “I never would have expected so many years later after getting out of law school that I would have gotten to this point.”

That point was being recognized as one of the Top Lawyers of Long Island during a ceremony last week, May 17, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage. Hosted by RichnerLive — the events division of Richner Communications and Herald Community Newspapers — the event featured some 300 attorneys, all mingling and congratulating each other on their achievements.

Lawyers were awarded for their accomplishments in a wide range of fields, including civil rights litigation, land use and zoning, commercial litigation, personal injury, and dispute resolution.

Jothy Narendran, a co-managing partner with Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran, was named one of the philanthropists of the year. She encourages everybody at her firm to get involved with a charity that they connect with on some level. For Narendran, that work involves Spectrum Designs, a custom apparel shop that employs individuals who are neurodiverse.

“It’s so nice to be recognized, especially in the community that we’re in,” Narendran said. “I don’t think there’s success without giving back.”

Amy Amato, executive director of RichnerLive, expressed gratitude for all who attended and made the event possible. Herald publisher and chief executive Stuart Richner described the gala as a “great way to celebrate all of the legal firms and professionals that contribute to our community. They are critical to ensuring that everyone’s interests are represented both fully and fairly. And I congratulate all of the winners for their hard work, passion and expertise.”

A portion of the ticket proceeds were donated to the Suffolk County Bar Association Charity Foundation, and the Nassau County Bar Association We Care Fund. There the money will be used for educational and charitable purposes, including the improvement of citizenship and justice, and to provide scholarships, grants and charitable programs to help those in need.

Brad Cronin, founding partner of Cronin & Cronin Law Firm, was honored with the lifetime achievement award for tax certiorari. He’s been practicing in his field for 40 years.

“You do a lot of hard work to get to this point,” Cronin said, “but the wonderful thing is I have a wonderful staff that’s been with me for 20, 30 years. And it means a lot that they’ve been able to support me and everything I do.”

Giuseppe Franzella, member of Bond Schoeneck & King, was honored for his work in commercial litigation. Franzella chose this particular path of law because of his family, and that he’s known that that was what he wanted to do since he knew what work was.

“I just wanted to be able to advocate for people and really solve people’s problems, which is what I do today as a litigator,” Franzella said. “I’m very flattered to be honored. It feels great to have the support of my firm and the local legal community, and it’s an honor to be among this group that’s been nominated, which is people I’ve worked with in the legal community, and looked up to, for a long time.”

Top Lawyers of Long Island sponsors

Major Sponsor

Easy Tax Credits

TenantBase

photo Booth Sponsor

Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP

Gold Sponsors

Cronin & Cronin Law Firm, PLLC

Duffy & Duffy, PLLC

Mejias, Milgrim, Alvarado & Lindo, PC

Silver Sponsors

Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC

Capell Barnett Matalon & Schoenfeld LLP

Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP

Cona Elder Law PLLC

Harris Beach PLLC

Kaplan, DiTrapani, Faria & Rabanipour LLP

Littler Mendelson P.C.

Meister Seelig & Fein PLLC

Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

Nixon Peabody LLP

PBI Payroll

Raimondi Law, P.C.

Rosenberg Calica & Birney LLP

Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC

Schroder & Strom, LLP

Touro Law Center

Verron Law Group, P.C.

Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

Tim Baker/Herald photos

TOp LAWYeR HONOReeS enjoying dinner during the awards ceremony with friends, family & loved ones.

THe VISHNIck McGOVeRN Milizio LLP team.

HON. IRA B. Warshawsky (Ret.) from Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. & National Arbitration and Mediation, with Herald Community Newspapers publisher Stuart Richner.

BRAd W. cRONIN from Cronin & Cronin Law Firm, PLLC.

Top Lawyers of Long Island 2023 Honorees

Gilbert L. Balanoff of The Law Offices of Gilbert L. Balanoff

John T. Bauer of Littler Mendelson

Jon Bell of Bell Law Group

Frederick K. Brewington of The Law Offices of Frederick K. Brewington

Richard P. Byrne of L’Abbate, Balkan, Colavita & Contini | National Arbitration and Mediation

Michal E. Cantor of Nixon Peabody

Jayson J.R. Choi of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein

Allan H. Cohen of Nixon Peabody

Andrew M. Cohen of Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen

Nathaniel L. Corwin of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein

Brad W. Cronin of Cronin & Cronin Law Firm

Peter Egan of Nixon Peabody

Anthony J. Fasano of Guercio & Guercio

Giuseppe Franzella of Bond, Schoeneck & King

Simone M. Freeman of Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran

Avrohom Gefen of Vishnick McGovern Milizio

David Green of Campolo of Middleton & McCormick

Jay M. Herman of Herman Katz Cangemi Wilkes & Clyne

Leah Jackson of The Law Offices of Frederick K. Brewington

Glenn M. Jones of Harris Beach

Jared S. Kaplan of Kaplan, DiTrapani, Faria & Rabanipour

Matthew E. Kasindorf of Meister Seelig & Fein

Ken Kern of Cona Elder Law

Adam H. Koblenz of Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz

Elena B. Langan of Touro Law Center

Steven L. Levitt of Levitt

Alyson Mathews of Bond, Schoeneck & King

Jennifer A. McLaughlin of Cullen and Dykman

David L. Mejias of Milgrim, Alvarado & Lindo

Randi M. Milgrim of Mejias, Milgrim, Alvarado & Lindo

Joseph G. Milizio of Vishnick McGovern Milizio

Brendan J. Mooney of Cullen and Dykman

Mika Mooney of Mika Mooney Law

Andrew S. Nachamie of Andrew S. Nachamie

Michael D. Napolitano of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein

Jothy Narendran of Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran

Scott A. Newmark of Meister Seelig & Fein

David R. Okrent of The Law Offices of David R. Okrent

Joseph C. Packard of Schroder & Strom

Constantina S. Papageorgiou of Vishnick McGovern Milizio

Christopher A. Raimondi of Raimondi Law

Ronald J. Rosenberg of Rosenberg Calica & Birney

Deborah G. Rosenthal of Rosenthal, Attorneys at Law, and Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York

Stuart H. Schoenfeld of Capell Barnett Matalon & Schoenfeld

Jacqueline Silvey of National Arbitration and Mediation

Hon. Peter B. Skelos (Ret.) of Forchelli Deegan Terrana | National Arbitration and Mediation

Lawrence J. Tenenbaum of Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran

Frank Torres of Duffy & Duffy

Tyleana K. Venable of Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran

Rochelle L. Verron of Verron Law Group

Hon. Ira B. Warshawsky (Ret.) of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein | National Arbitration and Mediation

Ellen C. Yaroshefsky of Maurice A. Deane School of Law, Hofstra University

Brian K. Ziegler of Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman

Top Law Firms

Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP

Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

THe SaHn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC team.

BrIan K. ZIegLer from Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, with Herald Community Newspapers publisher Stuart Richner.

aLySon MaTHeWS FroM Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC.

gLenn M. JoneS from Harris Beach PLLC.

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Launch Party Event

Wellness on Wheels visits Valley Stream 24 schools

Healthcare professionals from Northwell’s Cohen Children’s Medical Center recently visited Valley Stream 24 schools with their Wellness on Wheels mobile van. The Wellness on Wheels program is an interactive and educational experience for students, educating them on the importance and value of exercise and making positive nutritional choices. The program goes further and provides insight into making positive life choices.

“Nutrition education provides our students with information and skills that they will use throughout their lives. The Wellness on Wheels program complements our own classroom wellness curriculum while offering our students an immersive, handson experience that further highlights the importance of making sound nutritional and lifestyle choices,” said Superintendent Don Sturz.

Students worked in collaborative groups to have meaningful discussions about how nutrition is vital to their growing bodies and practiced fun ways to raise their heart rates by being active. Students also had the opportunity

to plant their own vegetables and fruits to take home to replant and share with their families.

Photos courtesy Valley Stream District 24 RobeRt W. CaRbonaRo Elementary School students watering their plants.

–Juan Lasso

William l buCk Elementary School student with her self-made greenhouse.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-R10

Plaintiff, Against KENJA CARRINGTON, et al.

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 02/05/2020, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 6/7/2023 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 324 West Jamaica Avenue, Valley Stream, New York 11580, And Described As

Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village Of Valley Stream, Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York. Section 37 Block Z Lot 409 And 410

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $420,961.95 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 603985/2018

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

Ellen N. Savino, Esq., Referee.

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 4/10/2023 File Number: 18-300200 LD 139262

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SECURITIZED

ASSET BACKED

RECEIVABLES LLC TRUST

2007-BR4, MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2007-BR4

Plaintiff, Against PEARL MATTHEWS, ETHEL MCKENZIE, et al.

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 03/14/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola,

N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 6/7/2023 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 26 Essex Place, Valley Stream, New York 11580, And Described As

Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Elmont, Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York.

Section 37 Block 520 Lot 17

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $413,698.16 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 612666/2017

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

Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated:4/6/2023 File

Number: 18-301535

LD 139264

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL FUNDING MORTGAGE SECURITIES

l, INC. MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-S9, Plaintiff, Against GENA MILLER, STEPHEN MILLER, JR., et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 03/28/2018, 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. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 6/8/2023 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 54 Catherine Street, Valley Stream, New York 11581, And Described As

Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village Of Valley Stream, Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York.

Section 39 Block 24 Lot 25 And 26

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $201,108.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale;

Index # 15-007520

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

Todd A. Restivo, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated:

4/6/2023 File Number:

14-303062 LD

139260

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff - against - HUGO

GOMEZ A/K/A HUGO S. GOMEZ, JR., et al

Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 20, 2015. 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 2nd day of June, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

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

Premises known as 124 Rockaway Avenue, Valley Stream, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11580.

(Section: 37, Block: 125,

Lot: 132)

Approximate amount of lien $278,488.31 plus interest and costs.

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

Index No. 013895/2013.

Thomas A. DeMaria, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

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

Dated: March 10, 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.

139167

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME

COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE OF THE CABANA SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. OTTO CASAL A/K/A OTTO L. CASAL, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 3, 2017, a Short Form Order duly entered on September 26, 2018, an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on January 21, 2022 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on July 27, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 645 Wyngate Drive West, Valley Stream, NY 11580 a/k/a 645 Wyngate Drive, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 35, Block 522 and Lot 10. Approximate amount of judgment is $584,347.63 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 008654/2014. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Glenn R. Jersey, III, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 201408-1 139208

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: ABASC, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 08/08/22. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: c/o The Carter Firm LLC, 229-19 Merrick Blvd, #235, Laurelton, NY

11413

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST,

Premises known as 51 Manor Road, Valley Stream, New York 11580-0000.

FB#21-2023

139467

NOT INDIVIDUALLY

BUT AS

TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISTION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK PULSIFER, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 17, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 13, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 160 East Maujer Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 6 and Lot 432. Approximate amount of judgment is $323,747.17 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609580/2017. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale. Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 181933-1 139464

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU TD BANK, N.A., Plaintiffagainst - SAFET KARADUZOVIC, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 7, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 9th day of June, 2023 at 4:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Nassau County, New York.

(Section: 37, Block: 290, Lot: 806) Approximate amount of lien $450,048.70 plus interest and costs.

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

Index No. 013052/2010. Robert Cristiano, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

Dated: March 31, 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.

139458

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. CARLA GIORDANI, et al, Defts. Index #611711/2020. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Sept. 14, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 39, Block 511, Lot 7. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale. JUDGE SCOTT SILLER, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100367 139460

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS SEALED PROPOSAL WILL BE RECEIVED by the Division of Purchasing of the Town of Hempstead, 350 Front Street, Room 122, Hempstead, N.Y. 11550-4037 until 11:00 AM prevailing time Thursday, June 1, 2023 at which time the following Formal Bids and Contracts will be publicly opened, read and approved as soon thereafter as practicable

Labor And Material To Repair/Replace Parts For TOH Existing Dust Collector

FB#22-2023

*Furnish & Install 3”

Thick Foam Insulated

Patio Roof and Two (2) Dry Wells

FB#23-2023

Complete Restoration Of Courtroom Benches

FB#24-2023

Purchase And Installation Of Two (2) AC units For DGS Printshop YEARLY REQUIREMENTS FOR: *TOWN BOARD TO MAKE AWARD

Bid/RFP/RFQ packets may be picked up only between the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 4:15 P.M.

Bid/RFP/RFQ Packets may also be obtained via email request to Paul J. LoRaso paullor@hempsteadny.go v

Please include Firm name, address, contact person and contact telephone number. Also include Bid/Offer number that you are requesting. All Bids/Offers must be made on bidding sheets furnished by the Division of Purchasing of the Town of Hempstead and subject to all specifications, terms and conditions stated therein.

The Division of Purchasing and or the Town Board reserves the right to reject any and all Bids/Proposals and to accept the Bid/Proposal(s) that is deemed most favorable to the interests of the Town ATTENTION VETERANS:

You have certain rights under Section 162 of The New York State Finance Law in connection with public contracts for the purchase of commodities or provision of services.

Specifically, This law may authorize acceptance of a bid submitted by a “Qualified Veteran’s Workshop” provided that the bid shall not exceed the lowest responsible bid by greater than 15%. It is incumbent on you to submit all required documentation to the Town, demonstrating your qualification for treatment under that section. You should consult your attorney to determine your qualification for treatment under this provision.

Under local law 62.5 this law may authorize acceptance of a bid submitted by a local veteran-owned business that maintains a place of business in or sells supplies, materials or equipment manufactured in the County of Nassau and submit a bid not to exceed 7.5% more than the otherwise lowest responsible bidder, and also does not exceed the bid of the otherwise lowest responsible bidder who qualifies for the local (non-veteran) preference by more than 2.5%.

Certification as to the

enterprise is required to be by the NYS Office of General Services or US Department of Veterans Affairs.

DATED: May 19, 2023

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y.

DONALD X. CLAVIN JR. SUPERVISOR

KATE MURRAY TOWN CLERK DOMINICK A. LONGOBARDI DEPUTY TOWN COMPTROLLER 139613

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Pooling and Servicing Agreement dated as of April 1, 2005 Park Place Securities, Inc.

Asset-Backed PassThrough Certificates Series 2005-WHQ2, Plaintiff AGAINST Harisson William; Beatrice William, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 25, 2018 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 June 21, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 150 Ormonde Boulevard, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 431 Lots 350 & 351. Approximate amount of judgment $336,196.36 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 005536/2014. 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.” Lisa Segal Poczik, 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: April 12, 2023 139542

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff, vs. PATRICK W. FEASER, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

Shaw community protests late leadership shakeup

continued from front page

departure had been circulating quietly among grief-stricken parents and teachers for days ahead of the May 15 meeting. That was enough to drive a phalanx of restless parents to the Shaw Avenue auditorium, where a few, including the school’s Parent Teacher Association leaders, sought to air their grievances before the board.

Board President Kelly Ureña — likely anticipating questions about Colarossi’s departure — opened the meeting to public comments with a comment of her own: “Please remember that we will listen to your commentary, but we cannot respond as a board, nor can we discuss individual personnel matters at large.”

Lions Club leader is village GOP’s Person of the Year

continued from front page

lage. His parents, Canio and Anne, moved to the village in 1948 from Mount Vernon. Daly explained that then, his father and his uncle Frank opened a dry cleaner and shoe repair business on Merrick Road right across the street from where the Valley Stream pool stands today. After a short while, they ventured out on their own, and his father opened his own shoe repair business on Mineola Avenue in the village. His uncle opened one in Malverne. Both were named Geronimo Shoe Repair.

Zabatta’s father’s shop was connected to the front of their home. He was raised there alongside his five siblings known as the “Five J’s”: Joe, Judy, John, James, and Joanne.

“Our honoree was a typical Valley Stream kid growing up in the’60s,” Daly said. “He played baseball for the VFW Bombers, he was in a bowling league, was a member of the Valley Stream Sea Rangers, and has fond memories of that youth organization.”

He worked with his brother, Joe, at a record store called American Vinyl for about 11 years before eventually deciding to go his own way. He opened up a custom car interior shop in Franklin Square called Phoenix Upholstery, which he has run for the last 39 years.

“He, like his dad, is great in his trade, is such a pleasant man, and always greets you with a big smile,” Daly said. “Our honoree has a genuine love for our Valley Stream community and has been actively involved throughout the years.”

Public Notices

It soon, however, became clear that parents had not come seeking answers. Instead, facing the crowd of residents and teachers, they each seized their allotted three minutes to deliver an outpouring of praise for Colarossi’s performance as principal and to urge board members to table taking a vote to accept his resignation.

“As a past PTA president. I’ve had the honor and pleasure of working with our current principal very closely. I’ve not seen another administrator being so hands-on and putting the children, families, and community first,” said PTA member and parent Shabeena Shakur, holding back tears.

“He’s out there most mornings on arrival to make sure the students are entering the building safely, even in the rain with an umbrella,” Shakur continued. “He constantly checks in with the PTA. He knows every parent and student by name. He genuinely cares about the well-being of each and every one of us.”

“It’s great to see Principal Colarossi’s presence at dismissal time when he’s greeting everyone,” said PTA President Jose Paulino. “He cheered on our children during the robotics competition, taking time from his family on weekends to support our Shaw family. He welcomes us virtually from his home as he makes pizza for International Night. And even dressing up as the Cowardly Lion for Halloween to partake in the fun of the day with our kids.”

Despite repeated pleas to table the decision, however, the board voted unanimously to accept Colarossi’s resignation along with a suite of other staff replacements and promotions.

Garcia-France later refused to comment on speculations made by Paulino and other parents that the school hasn’t had a tenured principal in 14 years and that the administration’s refusal to grant Colarossi tenure had ultimately driven his decision to leave.

Colarossi, in an interview with the Herald, also refused to comment on his reasons for leaving or his plans for the future. Instead, in a message to parents, he bid a bittersweet goodbye to the community.

“It’s been an honor serving the Shaw Avenue students, families, and staff during my time in Valley Stream,” he said. “We’ve transformed from many individual families to one large Shaw Avenue family.”

“I’m proud of what we’ve created in the past 8 years with stronger learning experiences for our kids, and I only hope my contributions will shine in the smiles and linger in the learning for a long time to come,” he added.

Looking toward the future, the superintendent remained tight-lipped about how and when her administration and the board will plan to hire a new principal to fill the vacuum of leadership left by Colarossi. Whoever takes over will likely have to exert a calm, stable influence on families and students, some of whom are disillusioned by the board’s decision and face mounting feelings of uncertainty for the future.

“Speaking as a parent, I value stability in leadership. My daughters who are in third grade are just getting used to the new set of assistant principals at Shaw Avenue. And suddenly I hear that the principal is leaving our school,” said Paulino. “I’ve seen nothing but love that this man has shown to this school.”

Shaw parent Jackie Cortez said she felt sick to her stomach when she heard the news of another shakeup in leadership and expressed frustration at the board’s inability to hold down a principal.

“My oldest child has experienced two different school principals and he’s only in the fifth grade. Principal Colarossi has led our school during the most trying times of our children’s lives throughout Covid and had to face his own changes in administration,” said Cortez.

“How are we to build stable relationships when at any given moment a principal has to leave? How are we supposed to feel a strong sense of security, belonging, and trust in this community? We need answers from this board, not for ourselves as parents but for our children,” she added.

Juan Lasso/Herald

The Valley STream Republican Club presented its latest community recognition award to Jimmy Zabatta, right, last month.

Growing up in Valley Stream was the best.

Jimmy ZabaTTa Honoree

Juan Lasso/Herald Shaw pTa preSiDeNT Jose Paulino urged the Valley Stream District 30 Board of Education to refrain from accepting Shaw Principal Christopher Colarossi’s resignation.

H ebrew Academy of Long Beach seeks educators to join our exceptional school faculty in fostering a culture of academic exploration and excellence and dedication to spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth of all students. We are currently looking for candidates in the following divisions: Lev

Part Time Morah

Middle School Morah

Full Time Rebbe

Middle School Math Teacher

DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys:

English Teacher

Science Teacher

Learning Center Teacher

Assistant College Guidance Counselor

SKA High School for Girls:

Graphic Design Teacher

Ivrit Teacher

Halacha Teacher

AP Computer Science Teacher

To learn more about our school community, please visit www.halb.org. We look forward to hearing from you! Please send resumes or inquiries to resumes@halb.org

HomesHERALD

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

European Style Townhome

Agreat location that is perfect for a large family. This spacious home has 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, plus additional rooms for home gym and home office. This home boasts 2-zone gas baseboard heat, new electric service, new roof, new water service, new boiler, new hot water heater, new sewer lines and all new masonry in the garage. There's a fire sprinkler system throughout the home, and a new first floor double-size outside deck perfect for entertaining, with a 2 car garage plus another parking spot behind the home. You will enjoy the ceiling fans and hardwood floors that are throughout the home. It is close to shopping, restaurants and public transportation, with the beach just blocks away. Come see for yourself, this maintenance-free home has it all! Low Flood Insurance and FEMA compliant.

A painter says he can do more than paint

Q. We started doing work to our home and are just finishing, and the painter suggested that a wall could be taken down to open up the rooms. He says he can do this himself because it’s not a support wall. We’ve looked into it, thinking about an island in the kitchen and matching the floor or replacing it. The painter said we might need an architect, but since the work is interior, it won’t need a permit. We’re wondering what we should do, because we know you’ll say we need a permit, but the painter says we can get one after the work is done, and he can start right away so he can finish the work and avoid interruptions. Do you think this is a good idea?

A. The permit, as a piece of paper or a process of reviewing the work, isn’t the point. As you read this, hundreds of projects around you are underway with no permits. Most of them will either never be found out or are of such small consequence that when an issue comes up, it will be ignored.

Usually, I only learn about problems when either a buyer or a lending bank wants something put on record. I receive frantic calls asking if plans can be made quickly and a permit obtained before the closing in a week. Anyone who tells you the permit process is quick is trying to sell you something.

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But remember, the permit document isn’t really the important thing. The permit is a symbol representing a more important issue — safety. Safety not only includes your well-being against doing something dangerous; it also means preventing health risks and the potential of losing a large sum of money if something goes wrong.

Removing a non-structural wall is a little misleading. The wall may not be supporting anything, but it has weight that you want to replace with another load. In general, people rarely look at any kind of building as a system of puzzle pieces, all fitting together in a specific way.

As an example of what can happen, I once got a call from someone who had that wall removed and added an island. The wall load was removed from the beams below, which was a good thing because those beams were now carrying less of a load. Then an island was installed, a four-foot-wide model with a beautiful quartz countertop, a sink and a sixburner stove. The homeowner also wanted an open display for restaurant-sized canned peeled tomatoes, ready for use with one of their famous recipes.

The island load was calculated after the finished flooring began to distort and come loose and sagged 4 inches, when I was called to figure out what was going wrong. The island weighed at least six times the load of the wall, and the beam below was buckling. The floor bounced and the wine glasses in a nearby cabinet clinked together every time someone walked by.

©

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.

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Yes, we’re a nation of immigrants, but . . .

The ongoing influx of undocumented immigrants into New York City now threatens not just to overwhelm the city, but to spread into the suburbs, as we have already seen in Rockland and Orange counties, raising serious quality-of-life issues.

Let me make it clear from the start. America is a nation of immigrants. They have always been the lifeblood that gives America its unique sense of determination and ingenuity. I am a grandson of immigrants. Like the late Gov. Mario Cuomo, I consider America to be more a mosaic and stained glass window than a melting pot.

No country has more legal immigration than the United States. Having said that, we cannot be a nation without borders or one that allows entry to unlimited numbers of migrants. There must be an orderly process and procedure for immigration, not just to safeguard our society and communities, but for the welfare of the immigrants. We cannot financially afford the surge of undocumented immi-

grants we are seeing today.

Coming out of the coronavirus pandemic, our economy was straining to recover. Mental health and education needs caused by Covid had to be met and paid for, with diminished revenues. Crime in our streets had to be brought under control to protect our residents and to make cities safe for people to return to work and play. Housing had to be provided for the growing numbers of homeless, including America’s veterans. Adding 60,000 undocumented immigrants to New York City is unsustainable, especially since we have virtually no idea who these people are and what physical, mental and educational needs they have. Nor do we know the criminal histories some may have.

While the overwhelming majority of undocumented immigrants are good people, some are not. I saw examples of the negative results of uncontrolled illegal immigration on Long Island in 2014 and 2015, when there was a surge of undocumented minors across the southern border. A significant numbers of those kids were sent by the federal government to communities such as Brentwood and Central Islip, many of whose residents are

hardworking immigrants from Central America. This put a severe burden on the local school districts, which had to accept these kids on very short notice while addressing their unique educational and psychological needs and deficiencies as well as the language challenges.

Despite Rep. Steve Israel and I making requests and introducing legislation, the Obama administration refused to provide these school districts with any added funding. There was also the chilling reality that a number of these young people were connected to the MS-13 gang, which was recruiting new members and carrying out brutal acts of violence against other students. In the 18 months from the fall of 2015 to the spring of 2017, MS-13 carried out a reign of terror in the immigrant community, brutally murdering 25 mostly young people.

You can understand why residents in communities in Brooklyn and Staten Island are so opposed to large numbers of undocumented immigrants being housed close to schools and neighborhood facilities.

This crisis of undocumented migra-

tion would be severe enough if there were any end in sight. Instead, more buses of immigrants arrive at the Port Authority every day. New York City Mayor Eric Adams wants to lessen the city’s burden by sharing it with neighboring counties, which are no more able to provide the necessary services than the city. Not surprisingly, Rockland and Orange counties are resisting through legal proceedings, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has made clear his opposition to Adams’s plan.

The only answer to this humanitarian crisis is for the Biden administration to secure our porous border as quickly as possible. Despite the president’s protestations, he doesn’t need congressional authorization to get the job done. He has the necessary power and authority.

Congress will not consider legislation on undocumented migrants already in the country until there is assurance that the border is secure, and the asylum system is reformed so that just claiming asylum won’t provide long-term sanctuary until hearings are held years in the future. Our challenge must be to stop illegal immigration while ensuring that America remains a nation of immigrants.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Dishing up an old-time menu for the holiday

The Memorial Day acai bowl just will not work. Neither do I want to see a tofu hot dog or an Impossible Burger vegging out at my table. Save the kale smoothies for another time. This year, after all the pandemic deprivations and accommodations and missed celebrations, I look forward to an old-time cookout, me and my old friends: carbs and salt and fat.

Even as I write this, it feels transgressive. I’m a good girl — I am. I eat healthy day in and day out. For heaven’s sake, even on Thanksgiving I now prepare stuffed butternut squash as a main dish and cooked fruit for dessert.

Eating natural didn’t come naturally. I didn’t grow up breakfasting on mango, granola and yogurt, lunching on avocado toast and dining on six ounces of salmon. I grew up the old-fashioned way, boosted by sugar, highly processed cereal, egg salad with mayo for lunch and liver and red meat for dinner. I stored bags of potato chips under my bed. I

know, you’re as surprised as I am that I reached this age.

My parents’ childhood diet was worse. As Jewish people of European descent, they ate everything with a scoop of chicken fat on top. Chopped liver was a fave. They were poor, so my mother’s family of six would share one chicken and fill themselves up with mounds of mashed potatoes (laden with chicken fat, of course). They served up pots of soup, also glazed with fat. The preferred cooking method was frying, and they weren’t using canola oil, believe me.

My mom and dad lived to 95 and 97, which does raise the question of whether chicken fat is an undiscovered health food. In their 60s they started eating fish and chicken, broiling instead of frying, consuming very little sugar and bulking up fruits and vegetables. They also started exercising, every day, in dogged moderation.

My food evolution began in college, when, after playing the vending machine cookie and cocoa slots, I gained 12 pounds. I hadn’t thought about it before: Would eating cookies and drink-

ing sugar make me unhealthy? Was I prepared to buy all new clothes to accommodate my chocolate chip cookie habit?

As my parents improved their eating habits in the 1960s, I too educated myself about nutrition and began grazing at the salad bars rather than the dessert buffet.

I was an awful cook when we set up our first apartment. At my first official dinner party for the family, I cooked Cornish hens, plated them, and served them to our parents. They were hens on steroids, and it looked as if a flock of geese had landed on our table. When my mother-in-law stuck a fork in hers, blood spurted out.

Some food fads of the day were fondues, either chocolate or cheese, processed white bread and Tang (dehydrated orange juice). I did own a fondue pot, but eventually, dipping bread chunks into melted cheddar lost its appeal. Everyone I knew had a bun warmer to hold the doughy rolls we served with dinner.

Eventually I learned to cook, and have been doing it every day for more than 50 years. We have moved toward

the food paradigm of lots of vegetables and a small amount of protein, preferably fish. I eat lower-fat foods and less sugar because I believe in science, and I know that a hot dog a day will put me away. But one or two a year is good for my personal sense of well-being.

We all associate food with memories, and the coming together on Memorial Day, a holiday both celebratory and somber, has always included a gustatory launching of the summer season. The meal demands fresh corn and watermelon. Beer for the grownups.

This weekend, as we honor those who have given their lives keeping us safe and strong, let’s go back to basics. Even as fake news, fake intelligence and photo fakery overtake us, let’s serve up real hot dogs, rolls, sauerkraut, relish, hamburgers and ketchup, and let’s top it all off with a gaudy and gigantic red, white and blue Jell-O mold, which has no real ingredients at all aside from food coloring.

I don’t know why the prospect of an old-fashioned barbecue feels so satisfying, and I’m not going to analyze it. Just save a seat for me at the long table with the paper tablecloth and pass me a dog with the works.

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

RANDI KREISS

I know that a hot dog a day will put me away. But this weekend, serve ’em up.

p resident Biden must secure our porous borders as quickly as possible.

Established 1990 Incorporating the Valley Stream Mailleader

Juan Lasso

Editor

Brendan Carpenter

Senior Reporter

rHonda GLiCkman

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martHa JaCovides

Founding Editor

offiCe

How not to make a mountain out of a molehill

Political animosity in America is as old as the Constitution.

Divisiveness and rancor are not traits unique to American politics, either. Humans have learned and relearned how to debate without smashing one another over the head with clubs. Politics is messy. It will always be a blood sport. Political parties exist to dismantle their enemies. But hope remains that discourse will win the day over destruction.

HERALD

Last week in Nassau County, there was a moment of collective breath-holding for those who support the rule of law, after a printing company made every active voter in the county a Democrat.

The company, Phoenix Graphics, of Rochester, assured the public the mistake was a printing error, and that no one’s party registration had been changed by the Nassau County Board of Elections. Phoenix promised to fix the error, and print and mail updated voter registration cards to everyone.

County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican, held a news conference anyway, clutching one of the incorrectly printed voter registration cards.

To his credit, Blakeman resisted a rhetoric-filled speech to score political points. It would have been so easy for him to blame Democrats or cast doubts on the June primaries and the November election, especially since this election cycle will be the first with newly redrawn county legislative districts.

Redistricting is a bare-knuckled politi-

letters

cal process that already causes voter confusion. Blakeman could have added to the confusion and distrust by blaming political enemies. He didn’t.

In fact, Blakeman explicitly said that Democrats weren’t engaged in a conspiracy. He emphasized that the county’s voter rolls are correct. He said there was nothing “nefarious” in the printing error. And he made light of any possible allusion to a conspiracy by saying that it would be nonsensical for Democrats to want Republicans to vote in Democratic primaries.

Pause and reflect for a moment on how significant Blakeman’s actions and words were. He could have made vague accusations, sown doubt and appeared to supporters as a hero battling dark forces.

The era of McCarthyism, the Gilded Age, the Civil War — there have been a number of times in our history when all hope of working with political rivals seemed dead. Our present-day political polarization has been described as among the most divisive in history. The ability to talk respectfully with people who disagree seems all but lost. Gerrymandering and U.S. Supreme Court rulings continue to separate us, and at any time there are a host of wedge issues that prevent reform.

Mention “stolen election” and people reach for pitchforks and torches.

Blakeman may not have scored political points with overzealous conspiracy theorists. Much more important, he sought to calm the electorate and reassure people’s faith in voting and democracy.

Grogan’s letter was short on facts

To the Editor:

Re Steve Grogan’s letter to the editor, “Democrats favor felons over disabled veterans” (May 11-17), referring to the Democratic lawmakers who have decriminalized adult-use recreational marijuana in New York:

Grogan argues that Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licenses to sell marijuana have gone to convicted felons, without providing the context behind the assertion. According to a March article in the Albany Times Union, state officials have reserved more than 300 “justice-involved” licenses in the first round, begun last November, for those previously convicted of a marijuana offense, or those whose immediate relatives were convicted. Lawmakers did so, in large part, to help compensate historically marginalized communities of color that were harmed by disproportionately higher marijuana possession arrests compared with predominately white areas.

From January to March 2018, for example, 93 percent of those arrested for marijuana possession in New York City were people of color. Of 4,087 arrests, 2,006 were Black people, 1,621 were Latino, and 287 were white, according to the Innocence Project. Yet Brookings Institution statistics from the time tell us there was relative-

Now that he has poured cold water on a potential simmering issue, he and county legislators must focus on continuing to reassure voters that the county’s voting systems are secure. First, the county must investigate how the printing error occurred. Was it caused by an inadvertent keystroke? Did Phoenix check information before printing nearly 1 million copies of the registration cards?

Next, Nassau legislators must adopt a local law that stipulates that vendors are responsible for fixing such errors at no cost to taxpayers, and that vendors submit a statement of accuracy verification prior to publication. Phoenix voluntarily owned up to its mistake and said it would pay to fix it, but county taxpayers shouldn’t have to rely on the goodwill of vendors when they err.

Finally, the county must insist on prior review by a Board of Elections employee, who would examine voter registration cards and give the OK for printing.

Blakeman should hold another news conference with Democratic and Republican legislators before next month’s primary to reassure voters that the voter rolls are correct, and that no party registrations were incorrectly changed.

Partisanship in our country is close to all-time highs. Blakeman deserves credit for resisting an easy layup to score political points. He and the Legislature must, however, work hard in the coming months to reassure voters that their registration information is correct, and that their votes will be accurately counted.

ly little difference in marijuana use among people of different races.

Grogan writes that licenses went “mostly” to convicted drug dealers, with-

out attributing the statement to a source.

Meanwhile, Section 137 of the state’s cannabis law prohibits anyone convicted of marijuana trafficking within the last

Israel’s safety must be America’s priority

In many corners of the world today, instability and democratic backsliding reign supreme. We see this phenomenon playing out in real time as Russia continues its malicious invasion of Ukraine, China further cracks down on human rights, and Sudan braces for a potentially protracted civil war. In the face of such a deteriorating international security situation, it is extraordinarily important that the United States reaffirms its commitment to standing for freedom, and continues to nurture democracy around the globe wherever there is fertile soil. America’s greatest ally in this generational struggle is Israel — a free country whose miraculous establishment by the Jewish people and survival against great odds has often drawn the ire of its antisemitic, authoritarian neighbors.

Recently I had the opportunity to travel to Israel as part of a bipartisan congressional delegation led by House Speaker

Kevin McCarthy, to see for myself the manifestation of that country’s great democracy and celebrate the 75th anniversary of Israel’s hard-fought freedom. During our time in Israel, my House colleagues and I met with President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana, and several other Israeli lawmakers, and briefed them on ways Congress is working to help Israel combat violence perpetrated by terrorist groups and state sponsors of terror, such as Iran.

While speaking to our Israeli partners, my colleagues and I reaffirmed our support for enhancing Israel’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system, and announced our participation in a new joint U.S. House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group — a bilateral association of legislators from the United States and Israel designed to promote avenues of cooperation between our countries.

What’s more, the American delegation formally delivered a copy of a congressional resolution I co-sponsored that calls for

Letters

three years from obtaining a license, pending state board review. All license applicants must also prove they have owned a profitable, legal business for at least two years. For more, go to bit. ly/436glY2.

Finally, Grogan states that no disabled veterans have received licenses in Round One, again without attribution. The state’s Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act of 2021, however, requires that service-disabled veterans receive priority treatment in the licensing process, along with minority- and women-owned businesses and distressed farmers.

For more, go to Cannabis.ny.gov.

SCOTT BRINTON Merrick

Larger lawsuits will only damage our health care

To the Editor:

The State Legislature is again considering legislation (A.6696/S.6636) that would exponentially expand damages awardable in wrongful death lawsuits. This bill is very nearly the same as one that was — thankfully — vetoed by Gov. Kathy Hochul last January. The physicians at the Nassau County Medical Society and throughout the state worked tirelessly to have this bill vetoed, but this issue is now resurfacing.

As doctors, we have great sympathy for the grieving families of our patients, and we understand that this legislation seeks

to help them. However, any legislation to expand costly lawsuits must be balanced to help prevent the enormous adverse impact it would have on our health care system. Had the first bill been signed into law, it would have made it even more difficult for our struggling community hospitals and medical practices to continue to provide needed patient care.

While the new bill purports to respond to the governor’s veto, it in fact does not.

Hochul identified several reasons for vetoing the earlier bill, including that it “would increase already high insurance burdens on families and small businesses and further strain already distressed health care workers and institutions,” which would be “particularly challenging for struggling hospitals in under-served communities.”

Furthermore, the governor articulated her concerns that the bill “passed without a serious evaluation of the impact of these massive changes on the economy, small businesses, individuals, and the State’s complex health care system.”

The new bill does not address these concerns. It would continue to enable the awards of new categories of damages that multiple actuarial studies show will lead to a nearly 40 percent growth in liability costs, on top of the already unaffordable costs facing our physicians and hospitals.

Studies from Diederich Healthcare show that from 2019 to 2021, New York had the highest cumulative medical liability payouts of any state in the country, $1.4 billion, nearly twice as much as the secondhighest state, Florida. It also had the high-

the strengthening of the Abraham Accords. The accords — a historic framework brokered by Nassau County’s own David Friedman, who served as America’s ambassador to Israel — provide a path to lasting peace in the Middle East, and I am proud that a Long Islander played such a large part in their formation.

wWe were shown such warmth by the Israeli people as we toured large swaths of Jerusalem, including the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre — moving visits to sites important to my Catholic faith. I also paid my respects to the victims of the Holocaust at Yad Vashem, which serves as a palpable reminder to the world that we must work tirelessly to prevent such evils from ever being carried out again.

Indeed, Jerusalem truly is a holy city, and I am grateful to the Israeli people for their considerate caretaking of so many important religious places of worship and other sacred sites. Sadly, however, the carefully maintained peace established by Israel that I observed was shattered as rockets fired from Gaza targeted innocent

Israelis in the southern sections of the country near the end of my visit — a painful reminder that Israel remains under siege, and that underscores the need for the United States to continue supporting our greatest ally in its struggle for survival.

On my flight back to New York from Jerusalem, I couldn’t help but think of those poor Israeli men, women and children forced to live in fear of indiscriminate death falling from the sky. We cannot allow this to remain the reality for the people of Israel.

I have seen firsthand how Israel stands as a beacon of hope in a world cloaked by darkness, and a shining example of the power of liberty in building a free, fair and just society. The United States must do everything in our power to safeguard our Israeli allies, for Israel’s very existence is a victory for the free world, and its success is America’s success. As a member of Congress, I will continue to do everything in my power to provide Israel the tools necessary to ensure that the blue and white banner forever flies high over the country’s eternal capital of Jerusalem. Israel will remain.

Framework by Tim Baker

est per-capita liability payment, 33 percent more than the second-highest state, Pennsylvania. And it far exceeds states like California and Texas, which New York is competing with to attract and retain the best and brightest physicians.

We just completed a budget cycle in which significant steps were taken to address the stability of our community health care providers, particularly those providing needed care in our undeserved areas. Yet this legislation would under-

mine the positive steps the Legislature has taken to protect access to care.

I urge the Legislature to work toward the adoption of truly balanced legislation that can expand the rights of grieving families, while at the same time preserving our patients’ ability to continue to receive needed health care in our communities.

DR. DAVID PODWALL President, Nassau County Medical Society

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Camp Avenue School — Merrick

Congressman Anthony D’Esposito represents New York’s 4th Congressional District.

e cannot allow indiscriminate bombing to remain the reality for its people.

antHonY D’esposIto