Valley Stream Herald 05-30-2024

HERALD VALLEY STREAM

Snapping snares and pipes come to town

The New York City Department of Sanitation Emerald Society Pipes and Drum Band was among the groups that marched in Valley Stream’s 104th annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday. Story, more photos, Page 3.

Sunrise Plaza jeweler bids farewell after half a century

By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com

In the era of online shopping, Andrew Papandrew, a brick-and-mortar businessman who dedicated his life to the craft of jewelry-making and repair, finds himself a dying breed.

His store, nestled on Sunrise Plaza, has stood there since he inherited the building from his father, a World War II naval veteran-turnedwatchmaker, who opened the shop in 1967.

“I graduated college in May of 1973. I got married in August, and I started working for my father in October,” said Papandrew. “And the

rest, as they say, is history.”

But now after roughly 50 years, Papandrew is relentlessly clearing out every glittering stone, necklace, and ring sitting in his display cases and displayed behind his glass walls at “escalated discounts.” With both his sons taking a pass on the business, Papandrew Jewelers Inc. is left without a current and willing heir and is closing. Weeks away from the store’s storied end and from the start of a long-awaited retirement, Papandrew believes small businesses like his, with craftsmen like himself, are vanishing and taking decades of expertise, dozens of local

Holy Trinity’s closure jolts parishioners

By JUAN LASSO & NORA TOSCANO of the Herald

Since before the turn of this century, Amy Schmidlin’s saw many defining moments of her life transpire at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Her fellow parishioners say the same.

The 100-year-old church building has been deconsecrated — allegedly turned over to other renters for a time — and listed for sale to the tune of $3.95 million.

“I got married at that church. My parents got married at that church. My sister had her Sweet Sixteen there,” Schmidlin said. “Since I was born, that church has helped to define me and my family’s life, and so many good memories and milestones are stored in that place.”

church membership at Holy Trinity dropped to untenable levels leading to its demise.

“Membership at Holy Trinity, Valley Stream, fell below the threshold to both upkeep its parish and minister to the wider community,” he said in a statement. “The remaining members of Holy Trinity are now worshiping at nearby congregations. Though it is always a difficult decision, throughout the history of our diocese, parishes have regularly moved, opened, closed, and merged as we have adapted to changing conditions.”

e tried to keep control of the church as much as we could, and then, when Covid hit, it kind of destroyed everything.

dEBBiE JACOBS Parishoner, Holy Trinity Nursery

But Schmidlin said she and other longtime parishioners were left stunned by the news and felt particularly slighted by the fact she did not find out directly from Provenzano or church leadership, but from Facebook.

Bishop Lawrence Provenzano, head of the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island, reported

“I found out about the sale of the church after a member in our private Holy Trinity

Continued on page 15

Juan Lasso/Herald

V.S. 24 takes a field trip to the Ashokan Center

students from all three schools in Valley Stream District 24 recently embarked on an interactive outdoor education experience at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York.

Students from Brooklyn Avenue School, William L. Buck School, and Robert W. Carbonaro School delved into science and the environment in New York’s Hudson Valley, forging friendship connections and participating in community-building activities with peers from neighboring schools.

The Ashokan Center offers students opportunities to explore nature, history, music, and art in a beautiful and inspiring setting. Activities ranged from canoeing expeditions and hiking trips to hands-on encounters with the various animals and wildlife that inhabit the 385-acre preserve. The day’s events also featured several games and opportunities for students to acquaint themselves with one another. To cap off the excitement, students gathered around a roaring fire to roast marshmallows, concluding a day filled with enriching experiences and cherished memories.

“Visiting the Ashokan Center is a wonderful and memorable Superintendent Unal Karakas. “It provides them with interdis-

enter the Valley Stream Central High School District together,

Juan Lasso

Courtesy Valley Stream District 24

Students at all three schools in the Valley Stream District 24 recently took a field trip to the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York.

Courtesy Valley Stream District 24

The Ashokan Center provided a beautiful backdrop

Valley Stream gathers for 104th Memorial Day parade

Heavy gray clouds promising rain hung overhead but the weather couldn’t dampen the patriotic, flag-waving spirit of Valley Stream residents at this year’s 104th Annual Memorial Day Parade on May 27.

The parade brought a wide assortment of village organizations and groups who kicked off their march at Wheeler Avenue moved through the heart of the village’s business district and ended at the memorial site at the Village Green. The clouds parted and the sun shone for the remembrance ceremony promptly following the parade at the war memorial site held to honor the names of Valley Stream residents engraved on the memorial monument who fought and died in combat. The remembrance event dovetailed with a few firsts including the inaugural presentation of veteran banners that lined across the parade route and the inclusion of the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action or Missing Man table at the memorial war site.

“Behind me stands the war memorial monument engraved with the names of

Valley Streamers who went off to war and fought for the freedom we enjoy today,” said Legion Post 854 Commander Bill Rohe, addressing the crowd. “I counted 95 names on the monument. Ninety-five residents left our village with a one-way ticket and who fell for us. Let’s keep them in our thoughts today and forever.”

“Every year during Memorial Day weekend, I’m reminded by a quote by Abraham Lincoln…’I’d like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives, and I’d like to see a man live so that his place would be proud of him,’” said Mayor Ed Fare.

He continued: “In Valley Stream, I can assure you that we are proud of all our servicemen and women. We are proud of our veterans and all the members of our armed forces currently serving this great country. And we are particularly proud of the persons remembered here today who have made the supreme sacrifice so we can live in freedom.”

— Juan Lasso

Juan Lasso/Herald

Valley Stream Soccer Club kids let their flags wave high as they parade through village streets at Valley Stream’s Annual 104th Memorial Day parade.

Juan Lasso/Herald

The color guard for the Valley Stream Fire Department marches proudly through the village during its Annual 104th Memorial Day parade.

Juan Lasso/Herald

Valley Stream Mayor Ed Fare, left, Grand Marshall John Filiault, and Trustee Kevin Waszak salute the colors during the Memorial Day remembrance ceremony May 27.

Juan Lasso/Herald

Ana Castell, left, joined her family Tatiana Cuevas, Abel Cuevas, Christian Cuevas, and Anabel Cuevas to watch the village’s Memorial Day parade.

V.S. 24 hosts mock trial in federal courtroom

students participating in the Sixth-Grade Challenge Program at the Valley Stream District 24 recently debated a First Amendment Supreme Court case in an authentic federal courtroom.

Students visited the Eastern District of New York’s United States Bankruptcy Court in Brooklyn for the engaging civics project. Dressed in professional attire, students took on the roles of judges and lawyers in a landmark Supreme Court case centered around the crucial debate between National Security and Freedom of the Press as protected by the First Amend-

ment.

Leading up to the experience, students meticulously read and analyzed Supreme Court decisions to effectively apply them in support of their arguments. The field trip allowed students to put their knowledge into practice in a professional setting, enhancing their understanding of civics and the legal system. This project underscores the district’s commitment to providing students with meaningful and impactful educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

“Our students represented their community with

Book Review:

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

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

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

pride and professionalism during this exciting opportunity to argue a crucial debate in a real court setting,” said Superintendent Unal Karakas. “This immersive, hands-on experience not only allowed our students to study the United States Constitution in depth but also provided them with a unique perspective on the judicial process. They demonstrated exceptional critical thinking and public speaking skills, which are essential for their future academic and personal growth.”

Juan Lasso

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

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

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

Courtesy Valley Stream District 24

Students visited the Eastern District of New York’s United States Bankruptcy Court in Brooklyn for an engaging civics project.

Courtesy Valley Stream District 24

Sixth-grade students in Valley Stream District 24 recently debated a Supreme Court case in a Brooklyn courtroom for an interactive lesson on the U.S. Constitution and judicial system.

Valley Stream 24 art shines at Saratoga Springs

students participating in the SixthGrade Challenge Program at Valley Stream District 24 recently showcased their creativity and artistic abilities during the New York State Art Teachers Association’s Olympics of the Visual Arts in Saratoga Springs.

During this day-long celebration of creativity and imagination, students conducted in-depth research and developed solutions to problems in the areas of illustration, painting, sculpture, drawing, and architecture. Documenting their historical research and analysis in a portfolio, students showcased the critical thinking, decision-making, and innovation that went into their original and inventive concepts.

Nathan Francisque earned second place in the illustration category for his project, “Building the Foundation of the Future,” and Madelyn Campbell placed third in the sculpture category for her project, “Orchestrina of the Gilded Age.” Judges also lauded Valley Stream 24 students for their impressive brainstorming abilities and the meticulous and coherent research that went into their projects.

The competition saw Valley Stream 24’s sixth-grade students competing at the mid-

dle school level against seventh and eighthgrade students from across New York. The district’s Art and Challenge departments worked collaboratively to prepare the students for the event. Challenge teacher Risa Miller and art teachers Jessica Rosenthal, Nicole Barci, and Leighanne Jaronczyk guided the students during the creative problem-solving competition.

The event was attended by over 50 professional artists, architects, graphic designers, fashion designers, illustrators, sculptors, photographers, and visual arts educators.

“The Olympics of Visual Arts was an incredible opportunity for our students to shine in a friendly and spirited competition with student artists from across the state,” said Superintendent Unal Karakas. “Our students stood out for their creativity, ingenuity, and passion in brainstorming and pursuing their project ideas. We are so proud of all our students for participating and thank our Challenge and art teachers for their guidance and preparation.”

Juan Lasso

Long Island’s most anticipated new oceanfront community is now open. At The Breeze, each rental unit opens you to a world of uncompromising

Courtesy Valley Stream District 24 Students brainstormed and solved problems in the areas of illustration, painting, sculpture, drawing, and architecture.

Retailers, electeds get together to talk retail crime

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“There’s definitely an impact that tran-

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

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

Annual Concert at St. Agnes Cathedral

THE SOUTH SHORE SYMPHONY

“SOUND VISIONS: MUSIC AND ART”

ADAM GLASER MUSIC DIRECTOR AND CONDUCTOR WITH MICHAEL BOWER, ORGANIST

SUNDAY JUNE 2, 2024 • 7:00 PM

PROGRAM - MUSIC INSPIRED BY ART

Respighi: Church Windows

Mozart: Overture to The Magic Flute

Granados: Intermezzo from Goyescas

Liszt: Battle of the Huns

at St. Agnes Cathedral

29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre, NY

Suggested donation $20 per person at the door

It’s tea time at Forest Road with special guests

earlier this May, the kindergartners at Forest Road School hosted a delightful Special Person’s Tea Party, creating an unforgettable experience for their cherished guests. The young students transformed their classrooms into beautiful, flower-themed cafe complete with small, intimate tables for their special attendees.

Upon entering the party, guests were greeted with a serenade by the kindergartners and received hand-made flower corsages crafted by their young hosts. Throughout the afternoon, each special guest was treated to delicious treats and sweet tea served by the enthusiastic students.

The celebration included creative activities such as making framed handprint hearts and self-portrait puzzles, providing a memorable keepsake of the day. Before concluding the event, children and guests enjoyed a lively photo booth session, donning silly hats, glasses, scarves, necklaces and fun signs, adding a touch of whimsy to the joyous occasion.

All attendees agreed that the Forest Road Special Person’s Tea was a tremendous success, leaving everyone with cherished memories of a wonderful afternoon.

Juan Lasso

Courtesy Valley Stream District 30 Forest Road School’s kindergartners delighted guests with handmade corsages, treats and crafts at their heartwarming Special Person’s Tea Party.

It’s closing time for a devoted craftsman

Continued from PAGe 1

business relationships, and a familial legacy with them. Yet he understands the hurdles of sustaining a small business better than most.

“Retail is tough. If you experience any part of it, you know it’s a challenging environment,” he said. “It’s been blown up by Amazon and the internet but having this business for so long” lends you trust and credibility among customers. And whenever you encounter a fussy customer questioning whether to leave their prized possessions with him, noted Papandrew, he need only remind himself how long he’s been in this business.

Timeless craft, timely goodbye

Though the son of a watchmaker, there is a reason he turned down taking up his father’s horology trade in favor of jewelry, the opulent glitz of the product notwithstanding.

“They’re two disparate trades,” said Papandrew. “Watchmaking is slow and quiet. The jewelry is sometimes cacophonous, requiring brute force, flames, rocks, and chemicals. The trades don’t mix.”

But beyond the technical skills honed over time, trust is the core promise underlying every business exchange he makes, argued Papandrew. It is not something he takes lightly.

“When you’re dealing with people’s most valuable possessions, they’re trusting you,” said Papandrew. “You have to earn that trust by doing good work and taking care of their belongings.”

And that trust has been well-earned as evidenced by the sheer number of

times Papandrew’s products or services have become a vital part of Valley Stream residents’ “happy occasions.”

“I can say my rings have been to more weddings and vows than anybody else in Valley Stream except maybe a priest,” he said, who has enjoyed being part of Valley Stream residents’ special moments as a family generational jeweler. The jeweler plays a unique role in preserving history, namely maintaining precious stones and accessories passed on from generation to generation, noted Papandrew.

His trade, however, like his business,

is disappearing. And unlike your regular 9-to-5 job, he describes it as “all-encompassing” where time-intensive dedication is necessary to become decent in your craft. It is a profession not aptly suited, he believes, for the fastpaced, instant-driven demands of modern life.

Setting his sights to close by the end of July, Papandrew has considered it nothing less than an “honor to be part of people’s most important moments in Valley Stream.”

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Andrew Papandrew kept his father’s working desk in ‘suspended animation’ at his jewelry store, the former site of his father’s watchmaking business, which opened in 1967.

Andrew Papandrew said he was honored to have his rings mark so many important milestones among local families.

Andrew Papandrew’s father, George Papandrew, opened a white-glazed brick building on Sunrise Plaza, which was the site of his watch-making operation before it became Papandrew Jewelers.

STEPPING OUT

A sweet time with

SWEET CHARITY

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

By Danielle Schwab

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chris Botti

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

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

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

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

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

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

Written by Neil Simon and based on Federico Fellini’s film “Nights of Cabiria,” the star of the show truly is the choreography. Fosse staged and choreographed the musical for Gwen Verdon, his third wife, who took on the role of Charity in the original 1966 Broadway production. And, of course, there are those classic musical numbers: “Big Spender,” “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” “I’m a Brass Band” and “Baby, Dream Your Dream.”

“If a Brass Band” and “Baby, Dream

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

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

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

Bonnie Raitt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moreover, it’s about hope.

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

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

from the broken-down dance halls

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

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

Photos courtesy Madison Theatre

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

It’s also considered an homage to

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

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

THE Your Neighborhood

‘The Rocketman Show’

Remember when rock was young?

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

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

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

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

Family theater

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

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

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

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

On exhibit

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

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

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

June 1

Floral design for kids

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

Car Show

The Village of Valley Stream hosts their annual classic car show, Friday, May 31, starting at 6 p.m., on Rockaway Ave. For more information, call (516) 8254200 or visit Vsvny.org.

Village meeting

The Village of Valley Stream holds its regular Board of Trustees meeting, Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m., at Village Hall. 123 S. Central Ave. For more information, call (516) 825-4200 or visit Vsvny.org.

Central

Board of Education meets

Valley Stream Central High School District Board of Education holds its regular meeting, Tuesday, June 11, 8 p.m., at Memorial Junior High School cafeteria B. 320 Fletcher Ave. For more information, call (516) 872-5628 or email districtclerk@vschsd.org.

Summer Concert Series

The Village of Valley Stream hosts its annual Summer Concert Series, beginning Wednesday, June 12, starting at 8 p.m. at the Village Bandshel. The concert will feature a “Vinyl Revival” by the Upbeat Cover Band. East New York Ave. For more information, call (516) 8254200 or visit Vsvny.org.

District 30 budget hearing

Valley Stream District 30 Board of Education holds its regular meeting, Monday, June 10, at 8 p.m. at Shaw Avenue School. 99 Shaw Ave. For more information, email district clerk Ashley Starna at AStarna@vs30. org or visit ValleyStream30.com.

Having an event?

Nature walk

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

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

On stage

Plaza Theatrical brings back its acclaimed Broadway series. With the recent passing of Stephen Sondheim, regarded as one of the most important figures in 20th-century musical theatre for reinventing the American musical, Plaza honors him with a staging of “Into the Woods,” Friday, May 31, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, June 1, 2:30 p.m.; also Thursday, June 6, 2 p.m. See it at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre. 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $49, $45 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 5996870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Wash, Cut & Blow

Valley Stream Central High School Cosmetology Department in partnership with Kiwanis Club of Valley Stream is offering a free wash, cut, and blow to anyone that wants to donate their hair (10 inch minimum ponytail or braid) to Locks of Love,. The nonprofit organization provides hairpieces, free of charge, to children suffering from medical hair loss. 135 Fletcher Ave. To make an appointment or for more information, call (56) 561-4436 or send an email to glasowk@ vschsd.org.

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure, Saturday, June 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stroll the gardens and listen to Mélina Mangal’s modern tale “Jayden’s Impossible Garden.” Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 3330048.

Art talk

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

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY

BAYVIEW LOAN

SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against VARICK FLORES, et al

Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered

November 10, 2016, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 11, 2024 at 3:00 PM. Premises known as 42 Cedar Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. Sec 37 Block 00537-00 Lot 00014. 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, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $492,185.78 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 009285/2011. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Richard L. Farley, Esq., Referee File # CARN262 146639

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee for Banc of America Mortgage Securities, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-2, Plaintiff AGAINST Debelle J. Emmanuel a/k/a Debelle Emmanuel, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 20, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 12, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 182 Hungry Harbor Road, Valley Stream, NY 11581. 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 and partly near Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 39, BLOCK: 506, LOT: 33. Approximate amount of judgment $793,856.18 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008650/2016. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-082464-F00 80388 146597

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, vs. AVA N. COHEN, Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 6, 2017, an Order Appointing Substitute Referee duly entered on December 3, 2018 and an Order Extending Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale and Other Relief duly entered on December 28, 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 18, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 11 Fir 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 in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 382 and Lots 42 & 43. Approximate amount of judgment is $333,179.61 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #015553/2012. 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.

Michael Zapson, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 231356-1 146835

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, -againstEDGAR E. REINOSO, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on April 4, 2024, wherein PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION is the Plaintiff and EDGAR E. REINOSO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 20, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 525 DUBOIS AVE, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11581; and the following tax map identification: 39-406-15. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT VALLEY STREAM, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000897/2016. Melvyn K. Roth, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 146847

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, in trust for the registered holders of Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2005NC2, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-NC2, Plaintiff AGAINST Ivy May Johnson a/k/a IvyMay Johnson, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of

Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 10, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 14, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1033 Stafford Road, 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 Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 37., BLOCK: 582, LOT: 30. Approximate amount of judgment $722,479.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #003354/2015. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Charles Casolaro, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-066204-F01 80471 146748

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS, OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE

ACQUISITION TRUST 2006--WMC4 ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-WMC4, Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAMS FAMILY TRUST; EVERARD WILLIAMS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale with Reference for Sale duly entered on September 12, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 187 Fir 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 in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York,

Section 37, Block 395 and Lots 453 and 454. Approximate amount of judgment is $831,973.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #533/2015. 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.

Rita Solomon, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 146831

PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE CO-OP APARTMENT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that pursuant to Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code, STEPHAN G. MARCELIN, Auctioneer, RICHIE SCHULTZ, Auctioneer, RICHARD J. CANTWELL, Auctioneer or MICHAEL CAMPBELL, Auctioneer, will sell at public auction with reserve to the highest bidder, North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, at 1:30 PM on June 13, 2024, security consisting of 232 shares of VALLEY PARK ESTATES OWNERS CORP., in the name of HURMAT HOTAKI, and all right, title and interest in and to a Proprietary Lease for Cooperative, located in a building known as and by the street address 1808 SHIPLEY AVENUE UNIT 2, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580, between HURMAT HOTAKI as Lessee, and VALLEY PARK ESTATES OWNERS CORP., as Lessor.

This sale is held to satisfy an indebtedness of the unpaid principal balance, interest, attorney fees and advances through June 13, 2024, and to enforce the rights of CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2019-NQM3 (the “Secured Party”), arising under a Security Agreement dated July 18, 2017, executed by and between HURMAT HOTAKI and QUONTIC BANK The Secured Party reserves the right to bid. The Co-op Apartment will be sold “AS IS”, subject to open common charges, and possession is to be obtained by the purchaser.

DATED: April 29, 2024 Knuckles & Manfro, LLP

Attorneys for SECURED PARTY

120 White Plains Road Suite 215 Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 345-3020 146986

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-FRE1 ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Pltf. vs. DONOVAN RUSSELL, et al, Defts. Index #17-001892. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated Oct. 29, 2019 and order substituting the referee entered Sept. 20, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 26, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., prem. k/a 117 Martens Avenue, Valley Stream, NY a/k/a Section 37, Block 14, Lot 266. Approx. amt. of judgment is $780,261.11 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. JANINE LYNAM, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 165 Eileen Way, Ste. 101, Syosset, NY. #101427 146974

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST DHARMIE D. INDER, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 7, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 25, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 208 DEAN STREET VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 AKA 208 DEAN STREET NORTH VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 AKA 247-15 135 ROAD, ROSEDALE, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being partly in the Borough and County of Queens, and partly in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, State of New York, Block: 13230, Lot: 12 (QUEENS COUNTY), Section: 37, Block: 415, Lot: 0384 (NASSAU COUNTY). Approximate amount of judgment $382,521.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to

provisions of filed Judgment Index #602017/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Harold F. Damm, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-002063 80690 146910

PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER, -againstCHARLES BROCKINGTON, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on April 16, 2024, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A

MR. COOPER is the Plaintiff and CHARLES BROCKINGTON, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 26, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 8 GREENLAWN BOULEVARD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; and the following tax map identification: Section 0037, Block 00575-00, Lot 00029.

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

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610699/2018. Janine T. Lynam, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF

SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 146994

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of Monaco Muse LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on January 22, 2024. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC92 E. St. Marks Place Valley Stream, NY 11580. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 146926

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 26-2024 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held May 7th, 2024, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 26-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 26-2024, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: May 7, 202 New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 147047

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 25-204

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held May 7th, 2024 , by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 25-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 25-2024, amending Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: May 7, 202 New York

A 100-year-old church is set to be sold

Facebook group posted it was up for sale online,” said Schmidlin who promptly messaged fellow lifelong parishioner and friend Debbie Jacobs with one question: ‘Is this real?’

“Four generations of my family attended and served at Holy Trinity, and this is my parish family,” Jacobs said. “I thought Provenzano would maintain the Episcopal presence in Valley Stream, but that historical building will be torn down, and it’s heartbreaking.”

A wider trend of declining membership

Jacobs acknowledged that church membership was on a steady decline before the Covid-19 pandemic and that it put the church’s fate in a precarious position even more as many events such as in-person services and nursery school classes were limited or canceled.

“We tried to keep control of the church as much as we could, and then when Covid hit, it kind of destroyed everything,” Jacobs said noting that in its latter years, with the exit of their last part-time priest, the parishioners took their ministry online with Zoom prayer meetings, a newsletter, and a book club. Yet post-pandemic she never expected the church to fail.

Nevertheless, a cold-eye review of the Episcopal Church’s parochial reports shows a declining churchwide trend in membership starting as far back as 2013, with the number of baptized members down 21 percent in 2022. On Long Island, membership fell from about 47,000 to 36,500 members, a 22 percent drop.

Not surprisingly, several Episcopal churches in the Long Island region have closed in recent years, including St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church in Queens Village and Grace Episcopal Church in Riverhead.

Saving your spiritual home or bust

But not all congregations, when faced with the imminent closure of their church, took the loss with solemn acceptance. When the Diocese sought to close St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Carle Place in 2022,

Holy trinity Church, which served as a nucleus of community solidarity and friendship for dozens of episcopalians in Valley Stream for a century, is now listed for sale.

parishioners rallied against the decision and managed to keep their church, albeit under a reimagined spiritual facility known as an “Incarnation Chapel.”

Instead, the new center of worship has traded away the pews and Sunday morning service in favor of a more intimate, smaller meditative center and Saturday evening dinners.

Jacobs questioned why something similar wouldn’t be possible for Holy Trinity.

“We just want to know why not put another church in there?” she said. “Why not make use of the building and the stained glass? Why tear it all down?”

During the waning days of the church, “the Diocese

News brief

did have other Episcopal churches come and talk about their church communities in Long Beach and Rockville Center,” said Susan Kaszubski, who served in the vestry and taught at the nursery school.

“But I never imagined it would close down. I have gone to several churches to try them out, but I haven’t found my home yet, a place where I feel as comfortable as I did at Valley Stream.”

Schmidlin, who also has been scouting for a new church community like Holy Trinity to send her children, was even less optimistic.

“A church like Holy Trinity doesn’t exist anymore,” she said.

Town of Hempstead files suit against MTA over controversial congestion pricing plan

The Town of Hempstead is suing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Supervisor Don Clavin announced a federal lawsuit against the MTA and the Federal Highway Administration regarding the congestion pricing plan, which is set to go into effect this June.

The suit seeks a “permanent injunction” to stop the pricing plan from moving forward. Supervisor Don Clavin and the town are listed as plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Also joining in the announcement was the town council, Congress-

man Anthony D’Esposito, Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll.

“The MTA’s poorly conceived plan to implement congestion pricing is just another cash-grab scheme that will once again come at the expense of hard-working Nassau residents who are just trying to get to work,” Clavin said. “I believe that not only is this regressive tax unconstitutional, but the entire program is beyond tone deaf, as more and more residents leave our region as they continue

to get priced out by Albany’s reckless tax and spend attitude. Congestion pricing will hurt middle class families and will be especially damaging to small businesses and our region’s economic growth. “

The MTA seeks to launch their congestion pricing plan on June 30. The new plan will cost car drivers $15 to enter Manhattan below 60th street. Trucks will be charged anywhere from $24 to $36 depending on their size. The toll also applies to motorcycles, taxis, and rideshare vehicles. Peak hours consist of 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. There are no exemptions for first responders or commuters who travel into the city daily. The officials referred to the congestion pricing plan as a regressive tax, meaning everyone will pay the same fixed amount regardless of income level.

“We have had enough of the MTA’s congestion pricing plans,” Muscarella said. “I am proud to stand with Supervisor Don Clavin and my colleagues on the Hempstead Town Board in opposing this unfair taxation.”

“Long Islanders commute to the city

every day for all different sorts of occupations,” Miller said. “Nurses, firefighters, police officers, teachers all provide an invaluable service to New York as a whole, and they do not deserve to be unfairly taxed for commuting to their occupation.”

“Congestion pricing has reared its ugly head once again,” said Ryder. “The MTA must be held accountable for their attempts to tax Long Island commuters, and I support our legal challenge against congestion pricing.”

“Supervisor Clavin has undertaken this action because he recognizes the enormous negative impact congestion pricing will have on the tens of thousands of Hempstead Town residents who would be affected,” said Joshua Liebman, a lawyer from the firm representing the town. “But more importantly, he understands that congestion pricing will be found inherently flawed in a court of law, creating a situation that is, in effect, taxation without representation. We are confident congestion pricing will not stand when confronted with our litigation.”

–Talya Lippman

Herald file photo

Help Wanted

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Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour

Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

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

$20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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

HANDYPERSON WANTED

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Send resume to careers@lixtherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 ext 211

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

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

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

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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

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

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

RECEPTIONIST P/T

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Cape Cod Home

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

Taxes: $12,076

Hewlett $722,000

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

Taxes: $15,761

Lido Beach $1,300,000

Lagoon Drive. Splanch. 5 bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Waterfront property. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/ family room. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight. Taxes: $15,482.16

Malverne $760,000

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

Taxes: $12,726

Merrick $1,300,000

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

Taxes: $12,500

Oceanside $755,000

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

Rockville Centre $1,175,000

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

Stream $720,000

Place. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Open

The landlord isn’t taking any responsibility

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

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

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

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

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

© 2024 Monte Leeper

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We must back the blue, now more than

ever

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

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

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

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

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

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

And we only have time to blame for that.

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

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

the problems plaguing police officers nationwide.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anthony D’Esposito represents the 4th Congressional District.

Watching life move too fast

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

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

been even better.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AnTHonY D’EsposITo

MICHAEL HInMAn

HeraLd editoriaL

Keep showing up to vote

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

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

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

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

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

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

Letters

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

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

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

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

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

The debates will answer questions

To the Editor:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obviously, since the transcript is

opinions Recapturing times gone by in politics

everyone agrees that there is a massive lack of bipartisanship in today’s political arena. Washington, D.C., is the poster child for warfare between Democrats and Republicans. Which is why my recent trip to albany was a throwback to times gone by. i refer specifically to an event known as the Pilots Dinner. every year, present and former members of the assembly gather for the Pilots Dinner. any member who has served in the assembly for at least ten years is eligible to be a Pilot. This year’s event attracted over 100 people, with a mix of present and former members in one room.

While some members clustered in corners with their party allies, the vast majority of the crowd mingled with old friends and the new Pilots. Within minutes of my arrival, i was greeted with an enormous bear hug by former nassau County assemblyman George Madison. Madison is now an upstate retiree,

but he has a newfound appetite for politics, because his son-in-law is an assembly member.

There’s no doubt that a gathering of any former colleagues is a sobering experience, because all of us change with the passage of time. some members whom we recall were strong, vibrant personalities now show that time is not always kind to our bodies. But the past years of collegiality shone very brightly as i moved around the room.

At the Pilots Dinner, recalling when there were no barriers to getting things done.

Within a few minutes after i arrived, i spotted former nassau Republican assemblywoman Donna Ferrara. i got the anticipated warm hug as she spoke proudly about her two grown children. she asked me about my two younger daughters and my wife, suzan, and there wasn’t a hint of partisanship. it was just a few moments of talking about times gone by.

Before i could move on for some more hellos, i was tapped on the shoulder by former Republican assembly Minority Leader Tom Reynolds, who’s now a Washington lobbyist. Tom served for 10 years in Congress, where he held a major leadership position. We remi-

nisced about great floor debates and past assembly leaders such as Perry Duryea and stanley Fink. Then we were joined by former Republican assemblyman Willis stephens Jr. Will comes from a family with a long history of public service. His grandfather Mallory stephens was chair of the Ways and Means Committee, as was his father, Willis stephens, who’s now 99. i was also chair of the committee, and have a long history with the stephens family. once the meet-and-greet portion of the dinner was over, the assembled members sat down for the formal program. newly minted members of the Pilots were introduced, and both Republicans and Democrats were given warm receptions. Past and present party leaders made speeches, and there was a warm glow in the room. The younger members were given some history lessons about leaders of yesterday, and they learned that many things were accomplished by people they had never heard of.

one of the final highlights of the evening was the tribute to speaker Pro Tem Jeffrion aubry, who is retiring after 31

Letters

complete, the only reason that Comer and his fellow Republicans want the audiotapes is to use edited parts of them in ads, in attempts to prove Biden’s diminishing mental competence.

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

MiRiaM Levine HeLBok Bronx

Let’s put aside the ignorance

To the editor:

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

nous Palestinians were the Jews.

i n 1923, the British decreed that 70 percent of the Palestine Mandate — which they won by defeating the ottoman empire in World War i — should become an a rab state, and named it Transjordan, later shortened to Jordan. i n World War ii , the n azis — who were supported by the arabs of Palestine (the Mufti of Jerusalem spent the war years in Germany as Hitler’s guest) — were defeated. Then, after much deliberation, the United nations decided to divide what was left of the land of the Palestine Mandate.

The Jews of Palestine were offered roughly half of what was left of the mandate territory (perhaps 10 percent of the original land) in order to establish their own state. and the arabs were offered the other part. The population settlements were considered. in 1948, the Jews created israel. The Palestinian arabs did not create a state, and instead started a war against israel, the first of many — and they lost all of

them.

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

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

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

years of service to his Queens community. Jeff, as we know him, offered a few barbs to both Democrats and Republicans, chiding them for some of their conduct during floor debates. one of his proudest accomplishments was his success in getting the home of the late Louis armstrong turned into a public museum.

Perhaps most of this is of little or no interest to readers, given the absence of familiar names and the lack of a controversial subject. But the Pilots dinner sparked lots of conversation among the younger and newer attendees about a time gone by, when there were no barriers to getting things accomplished in government.

it isn’t a fantasy to wish or hope for more bipartisanship in any government forum. Perhaps with the passage of time and the disappearance of the public figures who promote anger and hatred in government, we’ll get a new crop of people who will want to work together. at least, that is my wish.

Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

To say this is justice is ludicrous! The Palestinian arabs have exported their “intifada” to the world. They rely on people’s ignorance of their history to justify their absurd grievances. They have created no viable companies or societies on their own.

The United nations and israel have paid for their housing, food and living expenses. The arabs maintain “refugee camps” 75 years after they lost the war they began, instead of creating peaceful societies. They are the only people, in the history of civilization, to demand they still be designated ”refugees” generations after the war they initiated had ended.

ignorance is not bliss. Hamas and the Palestinian a rab protesters have used “useful idiots” to advance their cause, as described by a former member of Hamas.

The time to stop that is now.

RHoDa aLBen-aRonson Bronx

CorreCtions

JerrY KreMer