Malverne/West Hempstead Herald 04-02-2026

Malverne/West HeMpstead

HERALD

Honoring those who help keep law and order

By NoAH PERETZ

nperetz@liherald.com

Malverne’s American Legion Post 44 honored members of the village’s police and fire departments during its 37th annual Law and Order Night on March 26, when first responders were recognized for their dedication in serving the community and protecting its citizens.

“Presenting these awards is personal to me,” Michael Ernst, the Legion’s vice chair, said. “I’m a former police officer and I served in the military, so I understand what these guys go through. It’s important that they are recognized by the community they serve, like we’re saying, ‘Hey, we appreciate you guys.’”

Ernst delivered a speech honoring military members who could not return from service, explaining the symbolism of a set table with an empty chair.

“The upside-down cup signifies everyone who cannot be here to toast with us,” Ernst, a member of the COnTinued On pAge 10

Malverne valedictorian and salutatorian announced

By NoAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

Malverne High School

announced its top two graduates last week, naming Dayami Guaman valedictorian and Lorraine Akou salutatorian. Guaman will graduate with a grade point average of 105.14, and Akou has a GPA of 104.23.

Principal Dr. Kesha Bascome congratulated the two in a statement last Friday. “These two outstanding students continue a tradition of excellence that we value deeply at Malverne,” she said, “setting a meaningful example for others to follow and reflecting our

promise that every student is seen and supported.”

Dayami Guaman

Guaman, 17, created the high school’s Youth in Medicine program, a “pre-pre-med” program for students interested in studying medicine. She also helped create the Martin Luther King Day of Service in 2024 and is a member of the Key Club.

In addition to her community service, Guaman is a member of the National Honor Society and the secretary of the senior class’s student government. She also competes on the girls’ varsity tennis team.

Guaman is a first-generation American citizen, so she takes pride in placing at the top of her class.

“This is a huge achievement for me,” she said. “My parents are elated for me. They told me this shows that all my hard work throughout high school and even middle school has paid off.”

Guaman said she wants her peers to understand that academic success is not due solely to natural intelligence.

“It obviously wasn’t easy. Not everyone sees the challenges,” she said. “They think it’s natural talent. They don’t see the balancing of schoolwork

and extracurriculars or the sacrifice of free time.”

lorraine Akou Akou, 17, is president of Malverne’s National Honor Society and on the executive board of the school’s service club. She helps run fundraisers and connect students with community service opportunities.

She also helped coordinate the Martin Luther King Day of Service.

Akou is a member of the Black choir, the saxophone section leader for the marching band and the captain of the girls’ varsity tennis team. She is also an administrative officer for Malverne’s Model United

COnTinued On pAge 20

Susan Grieco/Herald

Village police Officer Christopher Aresta, left, and Sgt. Robert Lang, were presented with awards for outstanding service by Chief Tom Martin at the March 26 ceremony.

Malverne comes out for scavenger hunt

Over 9000 pounds of food collected for Our Lady of Lourdes “Souper Scavenger Hunt” food drive

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

The Malverne community gathered on the morning of Saturday, March 21 for the annual ‘Souper Scavenger Hunt’ hosted by Our Lady of Lourdes Church. The event involves the entire community’s participation in efforts to stock the church’s food pantry through an interactive scavenger hunt for children.

Community members put non-perishable food donations on their porches for groups of kids to collect and bring back to the church. The village is divided into 15 sections by the event organizers, and a group travels around each section collecting.

Event organizer Linda Baldacchino takes pride in galvanizing and uniting her community for the scavenger hunt. “Malverne is just an incredible community. There’s so much bad news in the world, so it’s really uplifting to see so many people buy this much food so kids can come collect it,” she said.

The scavenger hunt has been going on for 17 years, with the inaugural event in the spring of 2009. Baldacchino previously worked as a coordinator of youth ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes, and held food drives before, but wanted to scale the collection up and make it an event that more people could participate in.

“The church is always in need of supply, so this event was a way to boost our supply and get people involved,” Baldacchino said. “Kids, church group leaders, other community members, everyone.”

According to Our Lady of Lourdes’ Instagram and Facebook pages, the scavenger hunt netted over 9000 pounds of collected non-perishables. The parish routinely collects thousands of pounds of food at the

event year over year, collecting over 8000 in 2025.

Participation increased this year as well, Baldacchino said. “Over 115 kids ages 5 through 16, including from the church youth group, got involved, so that’s a large age range,” she added.

The event is in coordination with the church’s Saint Vincent De Paul Society, a group that “takes care of the needy of [their] Parish,” according to their site.

The society provides food, household items, clothes, and other items that members of the church donate. They also collect food donations on the first Sunday of

every month.

“The St. Vincent De Paul Society comes and helps weigh and sort the food when the kids come back with their collections,” Baldacchino said. “So many people are involved.”

Baldacchino sees the influence the scavenger hunt event has on the community. “It definitely catches on, more people are participating each year,” she said. “More people become aware of Our Lady of Lourdes food pantry; they bring food throughout the year on their own time.”

Offshore Wind Is Already Working for Long Island

By Tara Jones

Off the coast of Long Island, a new chapter in the region’s energy future is already spinning.

The South Fork Wind project — the first utility-scale offshore wind farm serving New York — is now delivering electricity to the East End, demonstrating that offshore wind is no longer theoretical. It’s operating infrastructure.

The project represents more than a milestone. For energy planners and policymakers, it is proof that offshore wind can play a critical role in solving one of the biggest challenges facing downstate New York: how to replace aging power plants while meeting growing electricity demand and keeping costs low for customers.

Meeting demand at its highest

According to an Aurora Energy Research study, they found that offshore wind generation could have saved New York ratepayers about $77 million during a single winter month. Because the price of the

energy that the wind farms produce are set at a single, stable rate for 25 to 30 years, there is no cost for the “fuel”.

Carrie Meek Gallagher, CEO of LIPA, also highlighted how South Fork Wind delivers particularly strong energy generation during the colder months, which means that when demand spikes, offshore wind can meet the demand when it is needed most.

Creating local jobs that stay on Long Island

John Durso, president of the Long Island Federation of Labor, said clean energy investment is creating opportunities that extend far beyond the construction phase.

Offshore wind projects require a highly trained workforce — from electricians and ironworkers to marine crews and engineers — and unions have been preparing workers through apprenticeship programs

that can take years to complete.

In turn, those good-paying union jobs and careers support families and help keep spending local.

The takeaway on offshore wind Long Island no longer has to debate offshore wind in the abstract, supporters say. It is already here and generating power, proving that cleaner energy, affordable energy, and local economic growth can go hand in hand.

As Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, pointed out, South Fork Wind coming online has also dispelled many of the environmental concerns around offshore wind.

Sue Grieco/Herald

‘Souper Scavenger Hunt’ participants counting donations.

Offshore wind turbine foundation components being held at the Port of Coeymans, ready to be shipped down the Hudson for installation. (Credit: Orsted)

HERALD SchoolS

Malverne senior awarded prize in Race Relations

Malverne School District honored Malverne High School senior Matthew DaCosta for being named a recipient of the Princeton Prize in Race Relations, recognizing his leadership and impact in advancing racial equity and cross-cultural understanding.

DaCosta is the second winner from Malverne in the past two years. “To have two winners from any school is rare, especially for a school the size of Malverne. We are so happy for Matthew,” Rebecca Madson, chair of the Princeton Prize in Race Relations for the NYC Region, said.

DaCosta served as chair of the ERASE Racism Student Task Force. He organized multi-district conferences on structural racism and testified at the New York State Foundation Aid hearings, advocating for equitable school funding. He developed restorative workshops addressing hate speech and founded the Malverne Youth Towards Equity program for younger students. He also helped launch Malverne’s first districtwide MLK Day of Service, uniting students in meaningful service and education centered on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

“Matthew exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and integrity,” Malverne High School Principal Kesha Bascombe said. “He creates programs and spaces that foster understanding and bring people together in meaningful ways.”

“None of this work is a means to an end for Matthew,” Jason Mach, district supervisor of humanities,

said. “I truly believe this is where his future lies, and all of our futures will be better for it.”

As a Princeton Prize recipient, DaCosta will receive a $2,500 award and an invite to attend the Princeton

Prize

Herber eighth grade mock trial wins 3 of 4

On March 18, the eighth grade Competition Mock Trial team from Malverne’s Howard T. Herber Middle School competed at the Western Suffolk BOCES Mock Trial Competition, winning three out of four rounds and earning multiple honors for legal preparation and courtroom performance.

The defense team secured both performance and legal victories against Jericho, demonstrating strong command of case law, persuasive argumentation and effective courtroom strategy. The prosecution team also earned a performance win against Massapequa, showcasing confidence, teamwork and professionalism before the panel of judges.

Throughout the competition, students impressed evaluators with their ability to analyze complex legal issues, construct compelling arguments, and effectively present their cases under pressure. Their success reflects months of preparation, collaboration and dedication to the Mock Trial program.

“Our students represented Malverne with exceptional pride and professionalism,” Christine Comer, Mock Trial advisor, said. “Their preparation, teamwork and confidence in the courtroom were evident in every round.”

The Western Suffolk BOCES Mock Trial Competition brings together student teams from across the region to simulate real courtroom proceedings, providing participants with hands- on experience in legal reasoning, public speaking and critical thinking.

–Noah Peretz

Symposium on Race, joining student leaders from across the country.

–Noah Peretz

Courtesy Malverne school district

Matthew DaCosta, center, received a Princeton Prize in Race Relations.

Courtesy Malverne school district

Howard T. Herber Middle School eighth grade Competition Mock Trial team at the Western Suffolk BOCES Mock Trial Competition.

Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick

Gives OD Kits to Libraries

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick recently presented the Malverne Public Libraries with wall-mounted overdose emergency kits and naloxone first aid pouches as part of her continued efforts to prioritize public safety throughout New York State Senate District 9.

In recognition of the growing need to strengthen public safety in everyday community settings, Senator CanzoneriFitzpatrick, with support from the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and Project COPE, is providing Senate District 9 residents with Narcan kits and related overdose response materials.

In addition to Malverne, Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick also delivered overdose response kits to libraries in Hewlett, East Rockaway, Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square, Long Beach, Lynbrook, Oceanside, Peninsula and Valley Stream.

“Libraries are more than just places to check out a book, they are vital community hubs that residents rely on

every day. They welcome people from all walks of life, and it is important that they are equipped with the proper tools and resources to respond when someone in the community needs help,” said Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the Senator’s unwavering support. I think Narcan Kits are important to have in our libraries because we are a trusted community center, and we welcome everyone regardless of background, including vulnerable populations like those experiencing homelessness or health challenges. Having Narcan on-site allows us to act immediately before a tragedy happens,” said Carol Lagos, Malverne Library Director.

Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick will continue to prioritize public safety by partnering with state and local organizations and institutions to expand access to life-saving resources and ensure communities across Senate District 9 are prepared to respond in emergency situations.

–Noah Peretz

Courtesy Office of Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick

Carol Lagos, Director of the Malverne Public Library (left) with Senator CanzoneriFitzpatrick (right).

Lakeview Library landmark designation

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

This May will be the 61st anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s visit to Lakeview. On May 12, 1965, King led a march organized by the Lakeview NAACP chapter from Rockville Centre to the Woodfield Road School, the building that is now the Lakeview Public Library.

Davison Avenue Intermediate School social worker Dr. Martine Laventure values this history as a Lakeview resident and Malverne graduate. “I’m actually Malverne class of ’02, and I remember my senior year when it [the building] was converted into the library,” Laventure said. “When I started working in Malverne and started to learn more about the history of the building, it was always something I was interested in.”

She was inspired by King’s march in Lakeview, as well as last May’s celebration of the 60th anniversary of his visit. This inspiration led her to start the Lakeview Public Library Landmark Project. The project aims to get Lakeview Public Library designated as a historic landmark.

emphasized in education to ensure that events like Dr. King’s march in Lakeview are not forgotten.

“This small community has so much history that wasn’t taught to me as a student, so I started to think, what do our current students really know?” she said. “I knew this was the right project, because they’re hungry for knowledge, they want to know.”

T his small community has so much history that wasn’t taught to me as a student I knew this was the right project, because they’re hungry for knowledge, they want to know

DR. MARTiNE L AvENTuRE Social Worker, Davison Ave Intermediate School

“Following last year’s anniversary of MLK’s visit to Lakeview, the idea sprung in my head that this history needs to be told and preserved,” she said. “I know this location should be designated as a historic landmark because of the history, and how it continues to serve as a multi-purpose facility for the Lakeview community.”

Laventure’s project is focused on education; she is working on it with the Davison Avenue Ambassadors of the fifth-grade class. The Ambassadors are a childrens’ civic learning and community advocacy group. She believes the preservation of local history should be

Why Not Print

In 2025, the Lynbrook Public Library was designated as a historical site because of its significance to the women’s suffrage movement of the early 1900s. Laventure cites this as further inspiration for her project.

“Knowing that Lynbrook library was designated as a landmark last year, this building [Lakeview Public Library] also has history tied to the Civil Rights Movement and also shaped how New York State started to integrate their school systems,” she said.

Laventure researching the history of Woodfield Road School with the kids at Davison, and teaching them that 60 years ago is not ancient history. “We have neighbors and staff members in the Malverne school district that actually attended Woodfield Road School,” she said. “We need to hear their stories, because there’s a limited amount of information you can find when you google Woodfield Road School.”

In pursuit of the library’s historical designation, Laventure and the Ambassadors have been in contact with the office of Councilwoman Laura A. Ryder, who has since confirmed their acknowledgement of the project. She is looking to submit two proposals for historical designation: one to the Town of Hempstead, and one to the New York State Registrar’s office for landmark designation.

“Our effort is making waves with local politicians, and it’s amazing to know that a bunch of ten-year-olds can grab their attention,” she said. She is

also conducting interviews with 21 alumni who attended Malverne schools between the years of 1950 and 1970 to get their firsthand stories.

Courtesy Lakeview Public Library/Facebook

The front of Lakeview Public Library, formerly Woodfield Road School.

Stuart Richner Publisher Rhonda Glickman V.P. Sales

Hofstra baseball impacted by weather

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The Hofstra baseball team is looking to take flight in the heart of spring after it was largely grounded to open the season in the dead of winter.

After opening the 2026 season with a three-game series at then fourth-ranked Mississippi State from Feb. 13-15, the Pride were only able to play three games over the next three weeks as mother nature unleashed historic snow totals across the Long Island region.

“You count on those early games to be able to evaluate the team and see where we’re going into conference play,” said fifth-year Hofstra head coach Frank Catalanotto. “It’s tough to replicate that when you’re inside in the gym or in the bubble.”

Playing just six games in the first three weeks of the season didn’t give Hofstra much preparation before starting the critical Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) portion of its schedule on March 6 at College of Charleston. The Pride took one of three games in series at Charleston and Monmouth to open conference play before taking two of three against Northeastern last weekend to move to 4-5 entering April.

Hofstra is looking to reach the sixteam CAA tournament with 21 returners from last year’s disappointing 18-36 team that went 8-19 in the league to miss out on the postseason. The Pride can assure a CAA playoff spot by placing among the top two in the league’s north division featuring Monmouth, Northeastern, Stony Brook and Towson or by having one of the two highest NCAA RPI ratings at the end of the regular season for the remaining teams.

Leading Hofstra’s charge for some late May baseball is red-shirt senior center fielder Tyler Cox, who hit .276 last season after transferring from West Virginia. The local lefty product from Clarke High School is second on the team in hitting as of March 30 with a .304 average and four home runs.

“He’s probably my best hitter in the

lineup and his approach has gotten better as lately he’s been more aggressive in hitting counts,” said Catalanotto of Cox. “He’s a leader on the team.”

Junior shortstop Michael Brown who leads the Pride in hitting with a .361 average and two home runs. Brown drove in the winning run in Hofstra’s 5-4 11 inning win against Northeastern on March 27.

Sophomore catcher CJ Griggs entered the final week of March hitting .304 and recording the winning RBI in a dramatic 11-10 win against Northeastern Sunday in which the Pride rallied for four runs in the bottom of the ninth.

JJ DeVito, a graduate student transfer from St. Johns, who was a former standout at Wantagh High School, has added some offensive punch to the lineup with a .268 average including four hits in a 5-4 loss at Charleston on March 8.

The pitching staff got a boost to start the season with the return of 2024 First-

Team All-CAA honoree Carlos Martinez, who missed last season due to Tommy John surgery. Martinez missed some early non-league action as he worked his way back from injury and Catalano is hoping he can peak during the crucial CAA portion of the schedule in April and May.

“He was struggling a little bit early with some pain in his arm, but now he’s feeling close to 100 percent,” said Catalanotto of Matinez.

The starting rotation for weekend CAA games also features sophomore Chris Bedford and senior Sean Hamilton. Key hurlers out of the bullpen include Nick Reese, Deuce Musial, Maddon McArthur, Tanner Sanderoff and Brayden Gregg.

Sophomore Michael Heyman, a Hewlett High School graduate, is another relief pitching option who could be called upon in non-league midweek games this season.

The Pride will look to get the April part of their CAA schedule off on the right foot with a series at Towson this weekend before hosting Long Island rival Stony Brook for three games from April 10-12. Hofstra will host series against Towson from May 1-3 and Monmouth from May 8 -10 before closing the regular season at Stony Brook.

Hofstra dug itself an early hole to gain a playoff spot by dropping four of six CAA games to start the season, but taking two of three from Northeastern gives the Pride a winning foundation to build off with plenty more conference games left to finish strong.

“There are a lot of games left and we’ve got to go take care of business,” said Catalanotto, a former 14-year Major League Baseball player who led Hofstra to a CAA title in his season as head coach in 2022. “We’ve got the talent to do it.”

Carlos Martinez is back on the mound after missing 2025.

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications Clarke High School product Tyler Cox is a key piece for the Pride in the lineup and center field.

These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, on the community.

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization

Water economics: balancing need with cost

The politics of profits, taxes and surcharges have roiled the debate over public and private service

By Allyson Ferr Ari & Chris ColuCCi of the Herald

Fifth installment in a series about water.

Water is a business.

Advocates argue that water is a basic human right. It’s also a product, provided for a cost and purchased by consumers. Whether filling a 40-ounce water bottle, taking a long, relaxing shower or running the tap for two minutes of teeth-brushing, water consumption is an often overlooked part of our everyday lives.

Like other expenses considered essential for life such as food, electricity and a Wi-Fi signal, the water bill is a recurring payment. And just like other utilities, residents sometimes have limited options for their service provider.

Long Island residents are served by either public water districts or private water suppliers and, depending on location, some pay significantly more for the same basic necessity — often with little or no ability to choose their provider. While a majority receive water from public providers, a smaller portion of the population is served by private companies, often at higher cost.

The dollars and cents

When their water bill comes in, many ratepayers feel a sharp pain in the wallet. Costs can fluctuate based not only on how much they use, but what they use it for.

Several water districts estimate that the average use for a family of four is nearly 400 gallons per day. In some cases, especially in private service areas, water bills can range from $500 to $800 per month during peak summer periods, according to longtime advocate Agatha Nadel, a resident of Glen Head.

Pricing differs sharply between public and private water systems. According to Pamela Bellings, a communications specialist at Liberty Water, “Residential water rates are set through a regulatory process overseen by the New York Public Service Commission.”

“Rates are designed to recover the cost of operating, maintaining and upgrading water infrastructure while ensuring service remains safe and reliable,” Bellings said of how Liberty determines its residential rates.

“Rates do not fluctuate month to month, but they may change over time following regulatory review and approval,” she added. These proposed changes require detailed justification and include opportunities for public input before a decision is made, which helps balance customer affordability with the need to maintain and modernize critical water infrastructure, according to Liberty.

Critics argue that despite regulatory oversight, the structure of private water systems can lead to significantly higher costs due to general service charges, meter charges, regulatory charges and other fees.

Public water suppliers typically pro-

vide a standard water usage rate, a conservation rate — a type of sliding scale applying higher fees to higher use, intended to encourage judicious water use — and an irrigation fee for dedicated sprinkler systems, which are presumed to be relatively lower priority than consumption.

“We feel water is a basic need. You need it for drinking, cooking and bathing,” said Robert McEvoy, chairman of the Oyster Bay Water District.

“Once you get past that, whether you’re putting 15,000 gallons on your lawn in the course of a quarter or you’re drinking every last drop, it has to meet the same standards, health-wise. We have to treat all our water the same way.”

“Water districts are determined or created as part of town law,” McEvoy explained. “A lot of the boundaries preexist the Nassau Subdivisions Act and the Nassau County charter — when they were established. Some of them run sort of coterminous with school district lines.”

of about 9.75 percent per project by the New York Public Service Commission, and that can rise to as much as 12 to 15 percent.

According to Nadel, a four-year rate cycle in the mid-2010s brought an increase of about 120 percent, significantly driving up household water costs.

While treatment standards remain consistent for public safety, pricing can vary significantly depending on the provider. In some towns, prices may even vary between houses on the same block due to water zoning boundaries or the homeowners’ use of private or public water supplies.

Nadel’s residence, for example, is in the Liberty Water service area, while homes just 100 feet away are served by the public Jericho Water District.

“My neighbor pays a fifth of what I pay in an entire year,” Nadel said. “No taxes, no surcharges, nothing.”

Pricing differences, advocates say, are driven largely by the structure of private systems, which include profit margins and surcharges and have limited access to the government funding that public providers rely on to offset costs.

Residents in a private system can pay three to five times more than those served by public water providers, according to Nadel. Private water companies are guaranteed a baseline profit

A major issue voiced by private water customers is the amount they pay in fees added to their water bills, which typically include base usage rates and additional charges such as taxes and surcharges. In some cases, nearly half of the bill is not for water usage. Surcharges can include the cost of infrastructure projects such as filtration systems, water towers and other capital improvements.

“It’s an absolute sin,” Nadel said of the surcharges. “Forty-one percent of a typical water bill goes to charges and taxes that have nothing to do with the actual water usage. It really is an absolute sin.”

Public vs. private water suppliers

While most Long Island homeowners rely on public water services from their local municipality, private water suppliers may be an option for certain service areas. Liberty Water is one of the area’s

Herald file photo

Water towers are one highly visible part of every water district’s infrastructure — and there’s no hiding their physical condition.

Public, private water rates differ drastically

Continued from PreViouS PAGe

largest private alternatives, currently supplying water to nearly 120,000 Nassau residents, primarily in the Town of Hempstead. A homeowner who wants an alternative to either public or private water suppliers would need to install and maintain a private well, subject to local and state requirements.

“For most customers, remaining connected to a regulated public water system provides reliability, water quality oversight and long-term infrastructure support,” Bellings said.

As a result, most Long Islanders continue to receive water service from the provider assigned to their area, even if they are dissatisfied with it. Because water is tied to geographic districts, homeowners typically cannot choose their provider.

As a matter of public safety, water suppliers — public and private — must adhere to state and federal guidelines to monitor and remove waterborne contaminants. “Private suppliers have the same health department and [Department of Environmental Conservation] requirements — federal, state and local requirements for pure water,” McEvoy said. “They have the same maximum contaminant levels for the same contaminants. Their testing requirements are the same as us, whether it’s a public or a private water supplier.”

McEvoy has decades of experience in the water industry, having previously served as chairman of the Long Island Water Conference and president of the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association — both organizations dedicated to ensuring water quality, safety and affordability across the Island.

Nadel explained that the Water Authority of North Shore has two main options to deliver public water: build and operate its own system or contract with an existing public provider. In her own research with North Shore Concerned Citizens, she has concluded that contracting with nearby systems — such as Jericho, Glen Cove, or Roslyn — would be the fastest and most practical approach because those providers already have infrastructure in place.

Long Island’s water systems are interconnected, allowing supplies to be rerouted during emergencies such as contamination events or periods of high demand, demonstrating that a transition from private to public supply may be feasible. Nadel said the shift would not be overly complex, but rather a matter of political will.

Homeowners having scant options is an issue on both shores, but potential alternatives have been considered for several years. The South Nassau Water Authority was created in 2021 to potentially offer Town of Hempstead residents an alternative to Liberty Water. A plan to establish a new water authority and create a sustainable, efficient and effective alternative to Liberty has been in the works for years. Residents and legislators are eager to move forward, but negotiations to transition away from the current water supply are complex and have moved slowly.

“Right now, the options are very limited,” explained Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, who represents District 21, which encompasses Baldwin, East Rockaway, Lynbrook, Malverne, Rockville Centre, South Hempstead and parts of Freeport and Valley Stream. “Residents that live in the Village of Rockville Centre and the Village of Freeport have municipal water; however, those who live anywhere else in AD-21 are served by Liberty Water with no ability to opt out, unless the municipalization of South Nassau Water Authority becomes a reality. The primary goal being to transition these private customers to public control to lower costs.” Public funding for some, but not for others

“Strong communities start with a strong infrastructure,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a 2024 news release. “Clean water is a basic human right.”

Last month, Hochul announced a plan to direct $28 million in state and federal grants to Long Island to help facilitate water infrastructure upgrades. The

Customers who received water from Liberty utilities opposed a 2023 rate hike that potentially saw bills in nassau County increase by a cumulative 34.2 percent. the increase ultimately went into effect in August 2024.

Drip, drip, drip: Where are your dollars going?

If your water bill seems excessive, there are some relatively simple steps to pare it down.

20-minute shower with standard showerhead

Up to 50 gallons of water

15-minute shower with low-flow showerhead

Up to 30 gallons of water

5 loads of laundry, standard machine

Up to 200 gallons of water per week

4 loads of laundry, Energy Star-certified machine

Up to 115 gallons of water per week

Standard toilet with minor running leak

Up to 1.6 gallons per flush plus up to 180 gallons per week

EPA-verified WaterSense-label toilet

Up to 1.28 gallons per flush

funds are part of a $250 million statewide project to improve water infrastructure.

The plan follows similar financial support in January of this year, when Hochul sent $18 million to Long Island — one part of a $288 million project — with the similar aim of making water and sewer infrastructure improvements.

In a statement supporting the most recent funding, Village of Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. wrote, “We know that access to clean water is not a luxury, but it is a necessity.” Hobbs continued, “Upgrading our aging water system, replacing outdated pipes and improving the overall system is critical to protecting public health.”

The influx of funds can play a significant role in maintaining and upgrading anything from deteriorating equipment at water treatment plants to damaged

underground supply lines. As government agencies, water districts can benefit from funding directly from the state, while private businesses cannot. The trickledown effect, so to speak, of extra governmental funding is that cost savings can be passed to residents. More important, water quality and safety can be more easily maintained. Private suppliers address potential safety issues at their own expense, without state or federal aid.

“Currently they’re not available for private water companies,” McEvoy said. “But the Long Island Water Conference has put it on their agenda to seek legislation that would give them access [to public funds] only for treatment of the contaminants. Not for any other purpose.”

Due to the unequal funding for environmental upgrades, public water providers are in a stronger financial position to improve infrastructure and remove contaminants using state and federal funds, while private systems are excluded from receiving them — meaning costs are passed on to residents.

The Environmental Protection Agency requires community water systems — public and private — to publish “community confidence reports,” most commonly in the form of yearly water-quality reports that reveal test results for contaminants, as well as facts and figures detailing overall water consumption.

The Jericho Water District Annual Drinking Water Quality Report for 2024, for example, highlighted nearly 4.9 billion gallons of water provided to 58,000 customers, averaging 13.4 million gallons per day. Jericho Water charges a minimum of $13 per calendar quarter, at a rate of $1.30 per 1,000 gallons up to 10,000 gallons. Fees increase on a sliding scale with usage — similar to the conservation rate used in other municipalities — reaching $3.90 per 1,000 gallons for usage above 200,000 gallons per quarter.

According to the 2025 Liberty Annual Water Quality Report for the Sea Cliff Operations District, the average customer used just under 95,800 gallons of water, at a cost of about $1,340, or $3.67 a day. Liberty also revealed that it served roughly 4,388 customers, at a total cost of $5.9 million.

The reports highlight how costs and scale can vary widely between systems, even as both draw from the same regional water supply.

For many residents, the issue is not just how much water they use, but who controls the system that delivers it.

Jordan Vallone/Herald file

First responders recognized for their service

American Legion for four years, said. “It was actually my wife who suggested I get involved with these guys. I liked what I saw, the camaraderie, the dedication to Americanism.”

Malverne Village Trustee Scott Edwards thanked the Legion’s members for their continued commitment to the community, and all servicemembers for their dedication to keeping Malverne safe.

Sgt. Andrew Vishnudat, a member of the Malverne Police Reserve for nine years, was honored during the ceremony for his continued voluntary service to the reserve unit.

“I joined the reserves to protect my kids and the community they live in,” Vishnudat said. “They are growing up here.

“This town needs all the help it can get,” he added. “We’re a small town that doesn’t have a huge budget, so people serve this community out of the goodness of their hearts. So many things happen around here, and the police need the extra help, that’s why I joined the reserves.”

Malverne Police Sgt. Robert Lang and Officer Christopher Aresta received awards for capturing a man accused of stealing checks from mailboxes in Malverne. Malverne Police Chief Tom Martini explained that Lang and Aresta saw the suspect wandering around the neighborhood at 3 a.m., when they discovered he was in possession of checks that did not belong to him.

The stolen property was allegedly found inside the suspect’s car, police said. A subsequent investigation revealed that he allegedly had opened mailboxes and snatched the checks, presumably with the intent to cash them, police added.

“It’s an honor to be awarded,” Lang said. “Giving back to my community is the most rewarding experi-

ence. I attend this ceremony every year. They always show their appreciation for the first-responders in this town.”

The Legion also honored Robert “Boo” Roth Jr., who received his award for 50 years of active duty with the Malverne Fire Department. Roth served as a lieutenant, captain and deputy chief before becoming chief of the Malverne Fire Department in 1998. He was also a 4th Battalion Delegate and a member of multiple department committees and the department council.

Malverne Fire Chief Anthony Buonomo presented Roth with the award and gave a speech in tribute to his continued service and dedication to the department and the Malverne community.

“Boo is what I like to call a true pillar of this fire department,” Buonomo said. “Even with 50 years of service, he remains an active and dependable member. His dedication to the firehouse, whether for small tasks, large projects, or simply just giving advice, speaks volumes about his character and commitment.”

The Legion also presented Eagle Scout Troop 24 Anthony Chioffe with a citation, highlighting his support of the Legion and his assistance in efforts to restore parts of the Legion’s building as an Eagle Scout Service Project.

In addition, three families in the community — the Skliros, Macaluso, and Tricolla families — received the Citation of Appreciation, an award commemorating their “outstanding citizenship” for displaying the American flag outside their homes.

Village trustees Megan O’RourkeSchutta, Lori A. Lang, and Carl Prizzi also attended the awards ceremony. Mayor Tim Sullivan and State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick could not attend but sent their regards via Trustee Edwards.

Continued from page 1

Susan Grieco/Herald photos

award recipients with trustees and american Legion members at malverne’s Law and order ceremony.

Village trustee Scott edwards spoke during the Law and order night ceremony before recipients were presented with awards.

Village trustees megan o’rourke-Schutta,left, Lori Lang and Scott edwards, eagle Scout anthony Chioffe and american Legion post 44 Vice president michael ernst.

Climate activists rally against Hochul plan

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Dozens of advocates and concerned residents gathered at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola last month to protest Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposal to revise New York state’s 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

The CLCPA is an environmental policy that requires greenhouse gas emissions in the state to be reduced by 40 percent from 1990 levels by 2030 by replacing much of the state’s fossil fuel electricity with renewable energy. Hochul wrote about the policy in an opinion essay published by the Empire Report on March 20, titled “Climate Action and Affordability Must Go HandIn-Hand.”

Following the loss of federal support for solar, wind and other energy initiatives and the rapid increase of oil prices, Hochul suggested that the climate act could lead to severe utility cost increases if it is not revised.

“So much has radically changed since the climate act was enacted, necessitating common-sense adjustments that keep us on our path to a greener future in a way that is affordable for New Yorkers,” Hochul wrote. “We need more time, and so I am proposing we amend the law to require regulations to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions to

be issued at the end of 2030.”

Eric Weltman, senior organizer of the national nonprofit Food and Water Watch, led a group of protesters urging state legislators to defend the climate law later that day.

“We are here because Governor Hochul, unfortunately, is threatening to weaken New York’s landmark climate law,” Weltman said, “and we’re here to urge our legislators to stand up and

defend and protect the climate law. Hochul is embracing policies that would promote fracking and more costly fossil fuel pipelines and power plants.”

The CLCPA, Weltman said, reduces costs related to fossil fuels, decreases air pollution and supports a shift toward renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.

Joe Sackman, executive director of the Long Island Progressive Coalition,

said the 2019 legislation “fully expressed New York’s willingness to take on climate change and move us toward a just and working-class-centered economy.”

“Governor Hochul, by demanding rollbacks to the CLCPA, you are playing politics with our future,” Sackman added. “It’s time to do what is right. No rollbacks on New York’s climate law.”

T.J. Shivers, representing New York Communities for Change, focused on the climate crisis’s direct effects on Long Islanders’ budgets.

“Energy burdens are crushing families from many low- and moderateincome communities,” Shivers said. “People are paying 6 to 10 percent or more of their income just on energy bills, far above what is considered affordable … When my bill goes up, it’s not just the number on paper, that’s food off the table.”

A number of community organizations joined the protest and spoke against revisions to the CLCPA, including the New York Public Interest Research Group, Transition Town Port Washington, the South Shore Audubon Society, the Green Party of Nassau County, All Our Energy, Grassroots Environmental Education, Renewable Heat Now and Bend the Arc Jewish Action: Long Island, calling for Nassau County residents to contact their local elected officials to advocate for preserving the climate act.

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Eric Weltman, a senior organizer for Food and Water Action, led the crowd in urging legislators to defend the state’s climate law on March 20.

The risen Lord renews our path forward easter message

Dear Brothers and Sisters: Happy Easter to you and your families! This Easter Sunday, Easter Octave, Divine Mercy Sunday and Easter Season we continue to pray and contemplate our Lord’s Resurrection appearances, and we give thanks for Pope Leo XIV and his worldwide spirit of Catholic mission.

In his Cycle of Catechesis on the Resurrection of Christ, Pope Leo writes: “The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is an event that one never finishes contemplating and meditating on...It was an explosion of life and joy that changed the meaning of reality itself... yet it did not happen in a striking way, much less a violent one, but gently, hidden, one might say humbly.”

to Emmaus. Their joy is restored as the Risen Lord explains the Scriptures to them and they recognize Him in the breaking of bread. In this way, the Paschal Mystery gives us hope and strength in every trial. Pope Leo concludes:

ReveRend

John o. BaRRes

Pope Leo recognizes that there is much sadness in the world. We think especially of the daily trials of those from war-torn areas of the world.

The Holy Father then reflects on the despair of the two disciples on the Road

“May the unexpected joy of the disciples of Emmaus be a gentle reminder to us when the going gets tough. It is the Risen One who radically changes our perspective, instilling the hope that fills the void of sadness... He bears witness to the defeat of death and affirms the victory of life, despite the darkness of Calvary... He alone makes the impossible possible!”

May the Light of the Risen Christ illumine with God in Heaven our path to holiness on earth and our path to eternal happiness. Sincerely yours in the Risen Lord, Most Reverend John O. Barres

The Most Reverend John O. Barres is the Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

Rabbi Elkodsi’s Passover Message Passover message

Passover celebrates the redemption of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, in Hebrew, Mitzrayim. Literally translated, mitzrayim means “narrows,” or “narrow places.” If you look at an aerial map of Egypt, you’ll see the Nile River flanked on each side by narrow strips of lush, green land, and then, the white of the desert sands.

relationship or a toxic workplace. It takes courage to gather your belongings and leave, always looking over your shoulder to see if the Egyptian army might be in pursuit, ready to capture you and bring you back.

As I write, there’s a strong possibility that Israelis will be holding their seders in bomb shelters and safe rooms. Countries surrounding Israel are also under attack, and citizens of Iran, where there is still a Jewish community, are also in danger. In essence, not unlike the first Passover Seder, in Egypt, where the people were told to eat their meal standing up, with their shoes in, in case they had to leave in a hurry.

According to the Torah, there was an erev rav, a “mixed multitude” that left Egypt; Israelites, foreign nationals, and even Egyptians who joined the community of more than 600,000 who left that narrow place. It’s very likely that it wasn’t just the Israelites who were slaves to Pharaoah, but others, including Egyptians, as well. They followed Moses on a circuitous route to the Sea of Reeds, and walked through the sea on dry land to freedom. We know they would end up wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, but they have no clue yet. In fact, they’re following Moses because of emunah, faith, whether it’s faith in Moses as a leader, or faith that the God of Moses was redeeming them and their lives would be better.

As constricting as mitzrayim was, it’s not easy to leave the place you know, your physical birthplace, where you know no other life. Just ask Abraham (ne Avram)! It’s frightening to think about leaving; whether it’ an abusive

Psalms 118:5 reads, min ha-meitzar, karati Yah, anani bamerkhav Yah, “From the narrow place I called to God; God answered and brought me to the expansive place” (translation mine). I believe that the Holy Blessed One responds when we call out, although the answer may not be apparent, or come in the form we’re expecting. Still, our crying/calling out reminds her that we’re here.

May your seders be full and joyful. May the food be delicious, and may you emerge from mitzrayim renewed and refreshed.

–Malverne Jewish Center Rabbi Susan Elkodsi

CSTL announces student STEM Awards

dents who are interested in applying. The application deadline is May 15.

To help encourage students to major in STEM fields and take advantage of STEM-related jobs opening, the Center for Science Teaching and Learning CSTL is awarding two seniors from Malverne High School awards of $2,500 each.

Dr. Ray Ann Havasy from The Center for Science and Mr. Peter Gersbeck, school counselor at Malverne High School will send the application to stu-

“We are hoping that students see how exciting and important these fields are,” Dr. Havasy said. She expressed that The Center for Science’s goal is to encourage science learning and these awards support that mission.

–Noah Peretz

STEPPING OUT

From sketchbooks to the spotlight

Young artists stand out in ‘Long Island’s Best’

By Abbey Salvemini

Fresh talent is in full bloom this spring at Heckscher Museum of Art. For three decades, the Heckscher Museum of Art has served as a prestigious launchpad for the next generation of visual storytellers. “Long Island’s Best” is back, marking its 30th anniversary as it spotlights emerging high school artists throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, now through May 3.

As the only juried exhibition of its kind on Long Island, this program offers high schoolers the rare distinction of seeing their work hanging in a professional museum and memorialized in a full-color commemorative catalog. The selection process is famously rigorous: For the 2026 season, 84 finalists were curated from over 400 submissions representing 63 schools across Nassau and Suffolk. Tasked with this challenge were jurors Meredith Brown, Ph.D., the museum’s consulting curator of contemporary art, and guest juror Aaron Feltman — an accomplished artist and a proud Long Island’s Best alumnus.

“It is never an easy process,” says Brown, who explained that the strongest pieces combine technical skill with originality and meaningful themes.

This year’s exhibition included an unusually high number of sculptures — more than in any previous “Long Island’s Best” exhibitions — that reflect both the students’ ambition and influenced by the recent exhibition “Emma Stebbins: Carving Out History.”

“I was surprised by the number of sculptural submissions,” Brown adds. “Sculpture is tricky, and many schools don’t have the resources, but these students took the challenge on and produced really compelling work.”

Among standout pieces is Luminous Harvest, a ceramic sculpture by Lyla Pinto, a senior at Long Beach High School, which earned fourth place and the Stan Brodsky Award. Inspired by painter Darragh Park’s “To Here/From Here,” Pinto created a tree-like form composed of branches holding symbolic fruit and candles.

“I was drawn to Park’s artwork because it seemed alive, as though the forms are changing and expanding rather than remaining still,” she explains. “The handcrafted fruits represent abundance, sustenance and the various attributes each branch offers. I made seven branches because the number seven represents completeness and balance, suggesting a full cycle of growth rather than a single moment. Like Park, I wanted to convey a sense of natural rhythm through organic shapes as demonstrated in the abundance and repetitious organic greenery.”

For Director of Education Joy Weiner — whose program leadership is being honored at a “30th Birthday Bash” on April 18 — the most rewarding aspect of her involvement is observing students experience the thrill of having their work displayed in a museum.

“Just watching their faces as they show their parents how special this opportunity is, that’s one of the happiest memories every year,” she relates.

“Long Island’s Best” has evolved considerably since its early years.

“Years ago, there were landscapes, still lifes and portraits. That was pretty much what you got,” Weiner

Lyla Pinto: Lyla Pinto’s ceramic sculpture “Luminous Harvest, was awarded Fourth Place and honored with the Stan Brodsky Scholarship Award.

• Now through May 3

• Open Thursday through Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

• Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington

• Visit Heckscher.org or call (631) 380-3230 for information on related programming

adds. “Over the years, the different kinds of materials became something that students were interested in exploring. And they’re also much more aware of the world around them, tackling social issues, personal experiences and big-picture ideas through their art.”

While the program certainly sharpens their technical craft, its true value lies in instilling the professional rigor required of a working artist. It also underscores the lasting influence of arts education, with many alumni pursuing careers in art, design, filmmaking, and teaching.

“The whole process from beginning to end involves meeting deadlines, working with teachers, creating the work and writing about it,” Weiner says. “That’s very important as they continue in their careers, to not only create a work of art but to be able to speak about it and share it with others.”

Looking ahead, both Brown and Weiner encourage students to embrace the process, even if their work isn’t selected.

“Sharing your work is a powerful experience. It helps students grow as artists and lets others engage with their vision.” Weiner adds.“Even if your piece isn’t chosen, you learn something about yourself and your art. And when people connect with your work, it’s a truly rewarding experience.”

Teachers, Long Island’s Best alumni and the community are all invited to the stylish “Birthday Bash” celebrating this momentous milestone. Alumni and local artists will contribute works for a fundraiser, underscoring the lasting influence of “Long Island’s Best” throughout the region. The gathering includes an opportunity to meet students and hear firsthand how the program shaped their creative journeys.

“I’ve been privileged to watch the growth of Long Island’s Best,” Weiner says. “I have seen elementary school students eventually become LI Best finalists, have watched students’ progress to becoming Long Island Biennial artists as professionals; and have been lucky to work with students who now teach art in our community, inspiring the next generation.”

This milestone exhibit not only celebrates the talent of today’s students but also emphasizes the enduring value of arts education in shaping Long Island’s creative future. It’s an opportunity to explore a wide variety of media and themes while experiencing the fresh perspectives and voices of the next generation of artists, gaining insight into how young people interpret the world around them through art.

Dan

Soder

Come chill with stand-up comedian Dan Soder! Get ready for a night of sharp, laugh-out-loud comedy when he takes the stage on The Golden Retriever of Comedy tour. Known for his quick wit and effortlessly relatable storytelling, Soder has built a devoted following. His credits include ”Not Special” on Comedy Central, a standout turn on Netflix’s The Standups” and his acclaimed HBO special “Son of a Gary.”Fans have also embraced his hit YouTube special, “Dan Soder: On The Road,” a laugh-packed set filled with smart, surprising takes on relationships, growing up and everything in between. Offstage, Soder hosts the popular podcast Soder and was a longtime co-host of SiriusXM’s The Bonfire from 2015 to 2023. Many will also recognize him from his role as Dudley “Mafee” on Billions. With his easygoing charm and razor-sharp observations, Soder delivers comedy that feels both down-to-earth and unexpectedly insightful.

Saturday, April 4, 7 and 9 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

‘…how I wish you were here’

Wish You Were Here celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” acclaimed as one of the greatest albums of all time and cited by Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright and guitarist David Gilmour as their favorite album. The band continues its 30-year tradition of combining sight and sound to capture the mood, emotions, and intensity of the Floydian theatrical concert experience — in a spectacular tribute of music, performers, lighting, video, lasers and inflatables — all performed without backing or click tracks. The veteran 10-piece musical ensemble features seven vocalists and a Floydian stage production — sound effects and vintage videos, flying inflatables, theatrical vignettes with props, and a sensational light show with moving lasers, rolling fog and state-of-the-art intelligent lighting — all produced with a fan’s obsession for detail.

Thursday, April 9, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Photos courtey Heckscher Museum

Tiffany Yam, of John F. Kennedy High School in Bellmore, contributed “Encased,” using colored pencil on illustration board.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

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Family

theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages

“Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also April 6-9

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

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Seasonal Sprouts: Artful Explorers

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens, now open for the 2026 season, to explore creativity in nature during this one-hour guided program through the gardens and at the barn at Orchard Hill. Children will observe colors, textures, and patterns in the landscape, play artinspired games, and create a simple hands-on art project using natural inspiration. Meet at the Beech Tree. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westburyy

• Time: 11 a.m.-noon

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

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Great Big Easter Egg Hunt

Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families for some Easter fun. Take part in a reading of the classic Peter Rabbit tale, “The Great Big Easter Egg Hunt.” Afterward join in an exciting egg hunt in the Cottage Garden! Perfect for children ages 3-6. Up to 12 eggs per child may be redeemed for prizes; eggs are empty. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury

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Mike DelGuidice

Local favorite Mike DelGuidice returns to the Paramount stage with his popular residency, delivering the high-energy, feel-good performances that have made him a hometown standout. Backed by his powerhouse band, DelGuidice brings the music of his idol, Billy Joel, to life with passion and precision, celebrating decades of iconic hits in a rousing, crowd-pleasing show. A multi-instrumentalist who grew up immersed in music, DelGuidice’s deep knowledge of Joel’s catalog ultimately led to sharing the stage with the Piano Man himself, touring around the world. Alongside beloved classics, he weaves in his own original songs, showcasing the songwriting that has earned him a devoted following. His releases include My Street, Miller Place and Mask Production, and his track “Ordinary Guy” was featured as the theme for Kevin Can Wait starring Kevin James. Whether performing on stage or connecting with fans through his “Live on the Porch” series, which brought audiences together during the pandemic, DelGuidice continues to share his love of music in ways that resonate far beyond the Long Island community.

• Time: 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m.

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

Bunny Hop & Shop

The Malverne Chamber of Commerce welcomes all to its annual Bunny Hop & Shop. Visit local chamber businesses, collect treats and celebrate spring while supporting local business owners.

• Where: Malverne LIRR, 34-40 Church St., Malverne

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon

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Malverne Trustees meet

The Village of Malverne’s Board of Trustees hold their monthly meeting at Village Hall.

• Where: 99 Church St., Malverne

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: malvernevillage.org

Light-Art Collaboration

Families are invited to Long Island Children’s Museum to illuminate their imagination and inspire creativity In this educator-led, hands-on workshop, participants are introduced to the history and process of lantern making while

creating their own unique drawing. In collaboration with LuminoCity, participants’ 2-D artwork will be submitted for a chance to have it brought to life as a 3-D light sculpture featured on display at the 2026 LuminoCity Festival. Free limited ticket with museum admission, available at the Box Office on the day of the workshop.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11-noon and 3-4 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

APR

‘An Evening of Magic’ fundraiser

The Sarah Grace Foundation for Children With Cancer hosts its annual “An Evening of Magic” gala dinner. Award-winning magician Will Fern brings highenergy entertainment, including strolling magic and mind reading, to benefit children with cancer. The dinner fundraiser takes place in the Philodendrum Room at The Milleridge Inn. Tickets are $125 and include dinner, drinks and the show; advance purchase is required. Raffles and a 50/50 drawing will also be held.

• Where: 585 N. Broadway, Jericho

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.

• Time: 8 p.m., also Apr 11

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

• Contact: thesarahgracefoundation.org

‘Dog Sees God’ Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance presents Bert V. Royal’s edgy comedy. The unauthorized continuation of the Peanuts comic strip, reimagines its characters as teenagers dealing with various contemporary issues including, identity, substance abuse, and relationships. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that’s both haunting and hopeful. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.

• Where: Hofstra’s Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater, Joseph G. Shapiro Family Hall, Hempstead

• Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; also April 12, 2 p.m.; April 16-April 19

• Contact: hofstra.universitytickets.com

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‘A Dream Is A Wish’

The enchanting “A Dream Is A Wish” princess concert returns to the Madison Theatre with new adventures and Disney Classics. Families are invited to sing along to all their favorite Disney songs including “Let It Go,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” “Part of That World,” “ A Whole New World,” and many more. Enjoy a magical journey and maybe even meet your favorite princess! Breakfast and tea ticket options also available.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: Varied times, also April 12

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

School Carnival Diamond Charter School hosts a free carnival to introduce local families to the new school.

• Where: 12 Westminster Road, West Hempstead

• Time: Noon-6 p.m.

• Contact: Terrence Mclean tmclean@diamondcs.org

Legislator

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Nicks mobile office hours

Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks brings her district office’s resources directly to residents by hosting a series of mobile office hour events across District 5. Mobile office hours are an opportunity residents to meet with Nicks and her staff to express their concerns, get answers to questions, and share suggestions. No reservations are required.

• Where: West Hempstead Public Library 500 Hempstead Ave. West Hempstead

• Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 571-6205 onicks@nassaucountyny.gov

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar 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 kbloom@ liherald.com.

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Snack station for all

*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees

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Register for this FREE event: Seaford.eventbrite.com or email rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273 AGENDA:

EXHIBITORS EXPERT PANEL + Q&A

RAFFLE DRAWINGS MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION OF THE WEST HEMPSTEAD UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT WEST HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the West Hempstead Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, will be held at the West Hempstead Secondary School Video Conference Room, 400 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead New York, in said District on May 5, 2026 at 7:30pm, prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.

1. Presentation of the budget document.

2. To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on May 19, 2026 as hereinafter set forth.

3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting AND FURTHER NOTICE

IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on May 19, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. prevailing time, in the North Gymnasium of the West Hempstead Secondary School, 450 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, New York at which time the polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items:

1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026 - 2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a threeyear term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2029, to succeed David Lazar, whose term expires on June 30, 2026.

3. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a threeyear term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2029, to succeed Joseph Magaraci, whose term expires on June 30, 2026.

4. To adopt the annual budget of the West

Hempstead Public Library for the fiscal year 2026 – 2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the School District.

5. To elect one (1) member of the Library Board of Trustees for a five-year term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2031, to succeed Owen M. Rumelt, whose term expires on June 30, 2026.

AND FURTHER NOTICE

IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the West Hempstead Union Free School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District Clerk’s office, Chestnut Street Administrative Offices, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York not later than April 20, 2026, between 8:00am and 4:00pm, prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by at least 53 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Each petition shall be directed to the District Clerk and shall describe the specific vacancy for which the candidate is nominated. Each vacancy upon the Board of Education to be filled shall be considered a separate specific vacancy.

AND FURTHER NOTICE

IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election.

All other persons who wish to vote must register. The Board of Registration will meet for the purposes of

registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to Education Law §2014 at the Office of the District Clerk, Chestnut Street Administrative Offices, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York on May 14, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid Budget Vote and Election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such Budget Vote and Election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Education Law §2014 will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District in the Administration Building, located at 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. prevailing time, on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the Budget Vote and Election, except Sunday or holidays, and on Saturday by prearranged appointment, and at the polling places on the day of the Budget Vote and Election.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet on May 19, 2026, at 450 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, New York between the hours of 7:00am and 9:00pm, prevailing time, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2027, and any special meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such Register is

prepared.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District Clerk at 516-390-3118 for information about accessibility.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 5, 2026 public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election on the school district website www.whufsd.com, at the West Hempstead Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 500 Hempstead Avenue, West Hempstead, New York, at the School District Administrative Center, located at 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York, and at each of the following school buildings in which school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays:

CHESTNUT STREET

SCHOOL

252 Chestnut Street West Hempstead, NY 11552

CORNWELL AVENUE

SCHOOL

250 Cornwell Avenue West Hempstead, NY 11552

GEORGE WASHINGTON SCHOOL

347 William Street West Hempstead, NY 11552

WEST HEMPSTEAD

SECONDARY SCHOOL

400 Nassau Boulevard West Hempstead, NY 11552

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type

of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026. In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018a and 2018-e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 16, 2026, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 516390-3118 and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter

of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the West Hempstead Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to acruz@ whufsd.com or fax sent to 516-489-1776. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the West Hempstead Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to acruz@ whufsd.com or fax sent to 516-489-1776. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 23, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York along with the required signed affidavit by the voter.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are

received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 19, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk at Chestnut Street Administrative Offices, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York, not later than 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, on March 20, 2026. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 133 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at 516-390-3118. Awilda Cruz District Clerk of the Board of Education West Hempstead Union Free School District 252 Chestnut Street West Hempstead, New York 158915

PUBLIC AND 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 AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO ANUAL Y ELECCIÓN DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNIÓN DE WEST HEMPSTEAD WEST HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una audiencia pública de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre Unión de West Hempstead, Municipio de Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en la Sala de Videoconferencias de la Escuela Secundaria West Hempstead, ubicada en 400 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, Nueva York, en dicho Distrito, el 5 de Mayo de 2026 a las 7:30pm, hora vigente, para tratar los asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes puntos: 1. Presentación del documento presupuestario.

2. Debatir todos los puntos aquí establecidos, que se someterán a votación mediante máquina de votación, en la elección que se celebrará el 19 de Mayo de 2026, como se estipula más adelante.

3. Tratar cualquier otro asunto que se presente debidamente ante la asamblea.

Y ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que dicha votación y elección se llevará a cabo el 19 de Mayo de 2026, a las 7:00 a. m., hora vigente, en el Gimnasio Norte de la Escuela Secundaria West Hempstead, 450 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, Nueva York. Las urnas estarán abiertas de 7:00am, a 9:00pm, hora vigente, para votar mediante máquina de votación sobre los siguientes puntos:

1. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 20262027 y autorizar que la parte correspondiente del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre los bienes gravables del Distrito.

2. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres años, que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2029, para suceder a David Lazar, cuyo mandato vence el 30 de junio de 2026.

3. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta

Public Notices

de Educación por un período de tres años, que comenzará el 1 de Julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de Junio de 2029, para suceder a Joseph Magaraci, cuyo mandato vence el 30 de Junio de 2026.

4. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Consejo Público de West Hempstead y Biblioteca para el año fiscal 20262027 y autorizar que la parte correspondiente se recaude mediante impuestos sobre los bienes gravables del Distrito Escolar.

5. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca por un período de cinco años, que comenzará el 1 de Julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de Junio de 2031, para suceder a Owen M. Rumelt, cuyo mandato finaliza el 30 de Junio de 2026.

Y ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de West Hempstead deberán presentarse ante el Secretario de Distrito de dicho Distrito Escolar en la oficina del Secretario de Distrito, Oficinas Administrativas de Chestnut Street, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, a más tardar el 20 de Abril de 2026, entre las 8:00am y las 4:00pm, hora vigente. Todas las peticiones de nominación deben estar firmadas por al menos 53 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de los dos porcentajes: 25 o el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en las elecciones anuales anteriores); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, así como el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Cada petición deberá dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito y describir la vacante específica para la cual se nomina al candidato. Cada vacante en la Junta de Educación que se cubra se considerará una vacante específica independiente. Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio, ya sea de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York, artículo 2014, o de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente

de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York, artículo 2014, y ha votado en cualquier reunión anual o extraordinaria de distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, podrá votar en estas elecciones; si está registrado y es elegible para votar de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, también podrá votar en estas elecciones. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. La Junta de Registro se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, Oficinas Administrativas de Chestnut Street, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, el 14 de Mayo de 2026 entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora vigente, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la Votación y Elección de Presupuesto antes mencionada, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se pruebe a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que él o ella está entonces o posteriormente autorizado a votar en dicha Votación y Elección de Presupuesto para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro preparado de esta manera de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio de Administración, ubicado en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, y estará abierto para inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del 14 de Mayo de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora vigente, de lunes a viernes y cada día anterior al día establecido para la votación y elección del presupuesto, excepto los domingos o feriados, y los sábados mediante cita previa, y en los lugares de votación el día de la votación y elección del presupuesto. Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el

19 de Mayo de 2026, en 450 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, Nueva York, entre las 7:00am y las 9:00pm, hora vigente, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la reunión anual y las elecciones que se celebrarán en 2027, así como en cualquier reunión especial que se celebre después de la preparación de dicho Registro. En ese momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre, a satisfacción de dicha Junta, que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o en el futuro en la reunión o elección escolar para la que se prepare dicho Registro. Y ADEMÁS, POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que los votantes calificados con discapacidades que busquen información sobre el acceso a los lugares de votación pueden, antes del día de la votación, comunicarse con el Secretario de Distrito al 516-390-3118 para obtener información sobre accesibilidad. Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que, a partir de los siete (7) días previos a la audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto del 5 de Mayo de 2026, cualquier residente del Distrito podrá solicitar la revisión de una copia del presupuesto propuesto presentándose en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York. Además, cualquier residente del Distrito podrá obtener un estado de cuenta de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección en el sitio web del distrito escolar www.whufsd.com, en la Biblioteca Pública de West Hempstead durante su horario habitual, ubicada en 500 Hempstead Avenue, West Hempstead, Nueva York; en el Centro Administrativo del Distrito Escolar, ubicado en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York; y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares con horario de clases de 9:00am a 4:00pm, horario vigente, excepto sábados, domingos y festivos:

ESCUELA CHESTNUT STREET

252 Chestnut Street West Hempstead, NY 11552

ESCUELA CORNWELL

AVENUE

250 Cornwell Avenue West Hempstead, NY 11552

ESCUELA GEORGE

WASHINGTON

347 William Street West Hempstead, NY 11552

WEST HEMPSTEAD

ESCUELA SECUNDARIA

400 Nassau Boulevard West Hempstead, NY 11552

Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con el Artículo 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exenciones. Dicho informe, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué proporción del valor catastral total en el registro catastral final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exenta de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada, identificada por la autoridad legal, e indicará: (a) el impacto acumulado de cada tipo de exención, expresado como monto en dólares del valor catastral o como porcentaje del valor catastral total en el registro; (b) el monto acumulado que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulado de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios que mantenga el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web que mantenga el Distrito. Y ADEMÁS POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes para las papeletas de voto en ausencia y para voto anticipado por correo se podrán obtener durante el horario de atención escolar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 21 de abril de 2025. De acuerdo con los §§ 2018-a y 2018-e de la Ley de Educación, las solicitudes de papeletas de voto en ausencia y para voto anticipado por correo completadas no pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete

(7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de papeleta de voto en ausencia o para voto anticipado por correo. Las papeletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00pm, hora vigente, del Martes, 19 de Mayo de 2026.

La lista de las personas a quienes se les habrán emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia y la lista de todas las personas a quienes se les habrá emitido papeletas de voto anticipado por correo estarán disponibles para su inspección por parte de los votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 14 de Mayo de 2026, entre las 9:00am y las 4:00pm los días laborables previos al día de las elecciones anuales y el 16 de Mayo de 2026, previa cita previa contactando al Secretario del Distrito al 516-390-3118 y el 19 de Mayo de 2026, día de las elecciones. Cualquier votante cualificado podrá, tras examinar dichas listas, impugnar por escrito la cualificación de cualquier persona cuyo nombre figure en ellas, exponiendo las razones de la impugnación. Dicha impugnación por escrito será remitida por el Secretario de Distrito o su designado por la Junta de Educación a los inspectores electorales el día de las elecciones.

Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar su registro como votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de West Hempstead. Para ello, deben presentar su solicitud de registro personalmente al Secretario del Distrito, enviarla por correo electrónico a acruz@ whufsd.com o enviarla por fax al 516-4891776. La solicitud puede indicar la preferencia del votante militar de recibirla por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Las solicitudes de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00pm el 23 de Abril de 2026.

Y ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que cumplan los requisitos para votar en el Distrito Escolar Libre de West Hempstead pueden solicitar una solicitud de papeleta militar al Secretario del Distrito y devolverla personalmente, por correo electrónico a acruz@whufsd.com o por fax al 516-4891776. Para que se emita una papeleta militar a un votante militar, la oficina del Secretario del Distrito debe recibir una solicitud válida de papeleta militar a más tardar a las 4:00pm del 23 de Abril de 2026. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas de conformidad con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que las solicitudes de papeleta no militar, según la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de papeleta militar puede indicar la preferencia del votante militar por recibirla por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de votación militar original y la votación militar de un votante militar deben devolverse por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario de Distrito en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, junto con la declaración jurada firmada requerida por el votante. Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que las papeletas militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por el Secretario de Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 19 de Mayo de 2026, mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo de otra agencia del\ Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a más tardar a las 5:00pm del 19 de Mayo de 2026 y firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se verifique como no posterior al día anterior a la elección.

Y ADEMÁS POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para modificar el presupuesto, o que de otra manera se someta a votación en dichas elecciones, debe presentarse

ante el Secretario del Distrito en las Oficinas Administrativas de Chestnut Street, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora vigente, el 20 de Marzo de 2026. Todas estas peticiones deben estar escritas a máquina o impresas en idioma inglés; deben dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmadas por al menos 133 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de 25 o el 5% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educación no aceptará ninguna petición para presentar a los votantes ninguna propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de la facultad de los votantes para determinar, ni ninguna propuesta o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley.

Y ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que aquellos votantes que deseen información sobre esta Votación y Elección Presupuestaria en español deben comunicarse con la Oficina del Secretario de Distrito al 516-3903118. Awilda Cruz District Clerk of the Board of Education. West Hempstead Union Free School District 252 Chestnut Street West Hempstead, New York 158917

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION MALVERNE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the Malverne Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York, will be held at Malverne Performance Art Center, 80 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, in said District on May 12, 2026, prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.

1. Presentation of the budget document.

3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 in the gymnasium of the Howard T. Herber Middle School, 75 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, at which time the polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items:

1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To elect one (1) member to the Board of Education for a four (4) year term, commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2030.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the Malverne Union Free School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District Clerk’s office, 301 Wicks Lane Malverne, NY 11565 not later than April 20, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by 25 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Vacancies on the Board of Education shall not be considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York

2. To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on May 19, 2026, as hereinafter set forth.

Public Notices

Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. The Board of Registration will meet for the purposes of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to Education Law §2014 on April 16, 2026 at the Malverne High School Lobby, 80 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. prevailing time, and at the District’s Administration Building 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, between the hours 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., prevailing time; and on May 8, 2026 at the Office of the District Clerk 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., prevailing time, to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid Budget Vote and Election at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such Budget Vote and Election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Education Law §2014 will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District in the Administration Building, located at 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., prevailing time, on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the Budget Vote and Election, except Sunday or holidays, and on Saturday by prearranged appointment, and at the polling places on the day of the Budget Vote and Election.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet

on Tuesday May 19, 2026, in the gymnasium of the Howard T. Herber Middle School, 75 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, New York between the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., prevailing time, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2027, and any special meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such Register is prepared.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District Clerk at 516-887-6483 for information about accessibility.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 12, 2026 public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election on the school district website www.malvernechools. org, at the Malverne Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 61 St. Thomas Place Malverne, N.Y. 11565, at the Lynbrook Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 56 Eldert Street, Lynbrook, N.Y. 11563, at the Lakeview Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, N.Y. 11570, at the School District Administrative Building, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, and at each of the following school buildings in which

school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays:

Malverne High School, Howard T. Herber Middle School, Davison Avenue Intermediate School, and Maurice W. Downing School

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the Office of the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026. In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018-a and 2018e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District

Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection beginning May 14, 2026, in the Office of the District Clerk during regular office hours, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., each weekday through May 19, 2026, the day set for the election and on Saturday, May 16, 2026, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 12 noon. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Malverne Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to lridley@ malverneschools.org or fax sent to 516-5962910. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Malverne Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to lridley@ malverneschools.org or fax sent to 516596-2910. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on

April 23, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the Office of the District Clerk at 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y 11565, along with the required signed affidavit by the voter.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 19, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk at 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on April 20, 2026. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 33 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine,

nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at 516-887-6483.

Lisa Ridley District Clerk of the Board of Education Malverne Union Free School District 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565 March 10, 2026 159152

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN DE PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIONES DISTRITO ESCOLAR UNION FREE DE MALVERNE MUNICIPIO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, ESTADO DE NUEVA YORK

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA se notifica que se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Union Free de Malverne, Municipio de Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, el 12 de mayo de 2026, hora local, en el Centro de Artes Escénicas de Malverne, ubicado en 80 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, para tratar los asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes:

1. Presentación del presupuesto.

2. Discusión de todos los puntos aquí expuestos, que serán sometidos a votación electrónica en las elecciones que se celebrarán el 19 de mayo de 2026, según se detalla a continuación.

3. Tratar cualquier otro asunto que corresponda.

Y ADICIONALMENTE SE COMUNICA POR LA PRESENTE que dicha votación y elección se llevará a cabo el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 en el gimnasio de la Escuela Secundaria Howard T. Herber, ubicada en 75 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565. Las urnas estarán abiertas de 7:00 a.m. a 9:00 p.m., hora local, para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos:

1. Aprobar el

presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 20262027 y autorizar la recaudación de la porción correspondiente mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad gravable del Distrito.

2. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación por un período de cuatro (4) años, que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2030.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones de candidatura para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta Directiva del Distrito Escolar Unuon Free de Malverne deberán presentarse ante la Secretaria del Distrito en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., hora local. Todas las peticiones de candidatura deberán estar firmadas por 25 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de los siguientes valores: 25 o el 2% del número de votantes que participaron en las elecciones anuales anteriores); deberán indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, así como el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Las vacantes en la Junta Directiva no se considerarán cargos específicos; los candidatos se postulan a nivel general.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio conforme a la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación de Nueva York o al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente conforme a la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación de Nueva York y ha votado en alguna asamblea distrital anual o extraordinaria durante los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, dicho votante es elegible para votar en esta elección; si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, dicho votante también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. La Junta de

Registro se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 el 16 de abril de 2026 en el vestíbulo de la Escuela Secundaria Malverne, 80 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, N.Y. 11565 entre las 8:30 a.m. y las 11:30 a.m., hora local, y en el Edificio de Administración del Distrito, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, entre las 11:30 a.m. y las 3:30 p.m., hora local; y el 8 de mayo de 2026 en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, entre las horas de 9 a.m. a 1 p.m., hora vigente, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la mencionada Votación y Elección del Presupuesto en la cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o posteriormente en dicha Votación y Elección del Presupuesto para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro preparado de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014 se archivará en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio de Administración, ubicado en 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565, y estará abierto para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 9:30 a.m. y las 2:30 p. m., hora local, de lunes a viernes, y todos los días anteriores al día fijado para la votación del presupuesto y las elecciones, excepto los domingos o días festivos, y los sábados con cita previa, y en los centros de votación el día de la votación del presupuesto y las elecciones.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 en el gimnasio de la Escuela Secundaria Howard T. Herber, ubicada en 75 Ocean Avenue, Malverne, Nueva York, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m., hora local, para elaborar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la

Public Notices

asamblea y elección anual que se celebrará en 2027, y en cualquier asamblea extraordinaria que se celebre después de la elaboración de dicho Registro. En tal caso, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se conozca o se demuestre, a satisfacción de la Junta, que tiene derecho a votar en la asamblea o elección escolar para la cual se elaboró dicho Registro.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que a los votantes calificados con discapacidades que deseen obtener información sobre el acceso a los centros de votación, que pueden comunicarse con la Secretaría del Distrito al 516-887-6483 antes del día de la votación para obtener información sobre accesibilidad.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que a partir de los siete (7) días inmediatamente anteriores a la audiencia pública del presupuesto del 12 de mayo de 2026, cualquier residente del Distrito puede solicitar revisar una copia del presupuesto propuesto presentándose en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565. Adicionalmente, cualquier residente del Distrito puede obtener una declaración de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección en el sitio web del distrito escolar www. malvernechools.org, en la Biblioteca Pública de Malverne durante su horario normal de funcionamiento, ubicada en 61 St. Thomas Place Malverne, N.Y. 11565, en la Biblioteca Pública de Lynbrook durante su horario normal de funcionamiento, ubicada en 56 Eldert Street, Lynbrook, N.Y. 11563, en la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview durante su horario normal de funcionamiento, ubicada en 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, N.Y. 11570, en el Edificio Administrativo del Distrito Escolar, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares donde se imparten clases entre las 9:00 y las 16:00 horas, hora local, excepto sábados, domingos y días festivos:

Malverne High School, Howard T. Herber Middle School, Davison Avenue Intermediate School, y Maurice W. Downing School

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar a su propuesta de presupuesto un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exenciones, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué porcentaje del valor catastral total del padrón catastral final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada, identificada por la autoridad legal, e indicará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, expresado como un monto en dólares del valor catastral o como un porcentaje del valor catastral total del padrón; (b) el monto acumulativo que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios del Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web del Distrito.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes de boletas de voto ausente y voto anticipado por correo estarán disponibles durante el horario de atención escolar en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del 20 de abril de 2026. De conformidad con la Ley de Educación §§ 2018-a y 2018-e, las solicitudes completas de boletas de voto ausente y voto anticipado por correo no podrán ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección, y deberán ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día anterior a la elección, si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de boleta de voto ausente o voto

anticipado por correo. Las papeletas de voto en ausencia y las de voto anticipado por correo deben ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora local, del martes 19 de mayo de 2026.

Una lista de las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido papeletas de voto anticipado por correo, estarán disponibles para su consulta a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito durante el horario de atención habitual, de 9:00 a. m. a 4:00 p. m., de lunes a viernes hasta el 19 de mayo de 2026, fecha fijada para las elecciones, y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026, entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 12:00 p. m. Cualquier votante calificado puede, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de la elegibilidad como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en ellas, indicando los motivos de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida por la Secretaria del Distrito o un representante de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores electorales el día de las elecciones.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar su registro como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Union Free de Malverne solicitando y entregando una solicitud de registro a la Secretaria del Distrito en persona, por correo electrónico a lridley@ malverneschools.org o por fax al 516-5962910. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar por recibirla por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 23 de abril de 2026.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Union Free de Malverne pueden solicitar una solicitud

de boleta militar a la Secretaria del Distrito y entregar dicha solicitud en persona, o por correo electrónico a lridley@ malverneschools.org o por fax al 516-596-2910. Para que un votante militar reciba una boleta militar, se debe recibir una solicitud válida en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 23 de abril de 2026. Las solicitudes de boleta militar recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de boleta no militar según la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de boleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar por recibir la boleta por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud original de voto militar y la boleta electoral militar del votante deben devolverse por correo o entregarse en persona en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, junto con la declaración jurada firmada por el votante.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que las boletas militares serán contabilizadas si la Secretaria del Distrito las recibe antes del cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026 y presentan un sello de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o un acuse de recibo fechado por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o si se reciben a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 19 de mayo de 2026, firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se determine que no es posterior al día anterior a las elecciones.

Y POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con una norma adoptada por la Junta de Educación según la Sección 2035 de la Ley de Educación de Nueva York, cualquier referéndum o propuesta que se someta a votación en dicha elección deberá presentarse ante la Secretaria del Distrito en 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, N.Y. 11565, a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora local, del 20 de abril de 2026. Todas estas peticiones deberán estar mecanografiadas o impresas en inglés; deberán dirigirse a la

Secretaria del Distrito Escolar; deberán estar firmadas por al menos 33 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de los siguientes porcentajes: 25 o el 5 % del número de votantes que participaron en la elección anual anterior); y deberán indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educación no considerará ninguna petición para someter a votación ninguna propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las facultades de los votantes, ni ninguna propuesta o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre esta votación presupuestaria y las elecciones en español deben comunicarse con la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito al 516-8876483.

Lisa Ridley Secretaria del Distrito Escolar Distrito Escolar Union Free de Malverne 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565 10 de marzo de 2026 159154

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, AGAINST RANDAL A. BENNETT, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on October 30, 2025.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 583 Dogwood Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot

piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at West Hempstead, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 35, Block 608 and Lot 47A, 47C, and 51. Approximate amount of judgment $309,912.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #612556/2024.

Brian J. Carmody, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 158825

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of WESTWOOD GLOBAL LLC . Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/24/2025 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 21 Horton Street, Malverne, NY 11565 . Purpose: any lawful act. 158808

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, vs. EDGARD ARAYA A/K/A EDGAR ARAYA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 23, 2025, 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 April 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 185 Fairlawn Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 35, Block 361 and Lot 175, 176, 274. Approximate amount of judgment is $914,305.55 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of

filed Judgment Index # 614112/2023. Cash will not be accepted.

Andrew K. Preston, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 158979

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 14th day of April, 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Chapter 202 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” at the following locations:

ELMONT

Section 202-19

CROMER ROAD WEST (TH 57/26) North SideNO PARKING 10 AM to 5 PM EXCEPT SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS and HOLIDAYSstarting at the east curbline of Ann Court, east for a distance of 196 feet.

UNIONDALE

Section 202-12

LOWELL ROAD (TH 66/26) North SideNO PARKING 8 PM to 8 AM - starting at a point 20 feet west of the west curbline of 1st Place, west for a distance of 132 feet.

WEST HEMPSTEAD Section 202-20

CHESTNUT STREET (TH 430(B)/25) North SideNO PARKING 6 AM to 10 AM - starting at a point 141 feet west of the west curbline of Woodfield Road, west for a distance of 50 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Chapter 202 “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” from the following locations: UNIONDALE Section 202-12

LOWELL ROAD (TH 286/21) North SideNO PARKING 8 PM to 8 AM - starting at a point 20 feet west of the west curbline of 1st Place, west for a distance of 82 feet.

(Adopted 9/9/21) WEST HEMPSTEAD Section 202-20

CHESTNUT STREET (TH 430/25) West SideNO PARKING 6 AM to 10 AM - starting at a point 146 feet west of the west curbline of Woodfield Road, west for a distance of 22 feet.

(Adopted 9/30/25)

GREENWAY SOUTH (TH 457/15) West SideNO PARKING EXCEPT SUNDAYS - starting at the south curbline of Greenway East, south for a distance of 77 feet.

(Adopted 11/24/15) GREENWAY SOUTH (TH 457/15) West SideNO PARKING EXCEPT SUNDAYS - starting at point 95 feet south of the south curbline of Greenway East, south for a distance of 102 feet.

(Adopted 11/24/15) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: March 24, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159257

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 14th day of April, 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations: BELLMORE MARTIN AVENUE (TH 61/26) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Martin Court, east for a distance of 25 feet.

MARTIN AVENUE (TH 61/26) South SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at the point 93 feet east of the east curbline of Martin Court, east for a distance of 37 feet.

MARTIN AVENUE (TH

Public Notices

61/26) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Oak Court, west for a distance of 57 feet.

ELMONT

CROMER ROAD WEST (TH 57/26) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from west curbline of Tudor Gate, west for a distance of 90 feet.

CROMER ROAD WEST (TH 57/26) South SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME - starting at a point 90 feet west of the west curbline of Tudor Gate, west for a distance of 47 feet.

CROMER ROAD WEST (TH 57/26) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from west curbline of Tudor Crescent, west for a distance of 45 feet.

OCEANSIDE

DAVISON AVENUE (TH 622(B)/25) North SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME - starting at the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west for a distance of 217 feet.

WEST HEMPSTEAD

GREENWAY SOUTH (TH 75/26) West SideNO PARKING EXCEPT SUNDAYS - starting at a point 10 feet south curbline of Greenway East, south for a distance of 185 feet.

WOODMERE

IRVING PLACE (TH 50/26) East SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME - starting at a point 13 feet north of the north curbline of Cedar Lane, north for a distance of 72 feet.

FRANKLIN PLACE (TH 50/26) West SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME - starting at a point 26 feet north of the north curbline of Cedar Lane, north for a distance of 90 feet. ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 202-1

“PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” from the following locations:

BELLMORE

MARTIN AVENUE (TH 690/00) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Martin Court, east for a distance of 40 feet.

(Adopted 10/2/01)

MARTIN AVENUE (TH 690/00) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Oak Court, west for a distance of 40 feet.

(Adopted 10/2/01)

OCEANSIDE

DAVISON AVENUE (TH 622/25) North SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME - starting at the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west

for a distance of 217 feet.

(Adopted 1/27/26) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: March 24, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 159258

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion.

Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 14th day of April 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

ELMONT

LEHRER AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 110 feet north of the north curbline of Sweetman Avenue, north for a distance of 23 feet.

(TH-55/26)

UNIONDALE

MACON PLACE - south side, starting at a point 75 feet east of the east curbline of Uniondale Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-56/26) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

WEST HEMPSTEAD

OAK STREET - south side, starting at a point 207 feet east of the east curbline of Morton Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-324/24 - 9/17/24)

(TH-54/26)

GREENWAY SOUTHwest side, starting at a point 77 feet south of the south curbline of Greenway East, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-457/15 - 11/24/15)

(TH-75/26)

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have

an opportunity to be heard in person on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: March 24, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 159263

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO.

32-2026

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 on the 24th day of March, 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 32-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 32-2026, to amend Section 202-52 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to repeal “BUS STOPS” at various locations.

Dated: March 24, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 159254

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 04/15/2026 at 9:30

A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30

A.M. 187/26. WEST HEMPSTEAD - Rui

Chen, Special exception to maintain accessory structure (shed) higher & larger than permitted & exceeding horizontal maximum., S/E cor. Lexington Ave. & Brooklyn Ave., a/k/a 363 Lexington Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in West Hempstead within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

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

159238

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 28-2026

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 on the 24th day of March 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 28-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 28-2026, to amend Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: March 24, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE

Guaman and Akou finish less than one point apart

ContinUED from pAGE 1

Nations. Malverne High attended Nassau County’s second annual Model U.N. conference and hosted its own in April 2025.

Akou credited her family for pushing her. “I was driven by the encouragement from my parents, but I realized along the way that I really wanted this for myself,” she said. “I can now say that I accomplished this for myself.”

She was valedictorian of her 8th grade class. “Being valedictorian or finishing top two was a goal of mine, but it wasn’t my only goal coming into high school,” she said. “I’m happy it pushed me to where I am today, but I realized that there’s more to be proud of in life.”

Guaman and Akou both received QuestBridge National College Match Scholarships, earning them full fouryear scholarships to Johns Hopkins University and Emory University, respectively. They were two of 2,550 finalists chosen from a pool of about 21,000 applicants from across the country. The scholarships will cover the entire cost of their undergraduate education, including tuition, housing and books.

Guaman has committed to Johns Hopkins on a premed track, planning to double major in molecular biology and public health. Her goal is to practice obstetrics and gynecology.

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 159240

“I love science, and I love to help people,” she said. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and starting at Johns Hopkins.”

Akou will also be on a premed track at Emory University, majoring in neuroscience. “I bet my parents are glad my undergrad is free,” she said.

She plans to become a neuroradiologist, and is interested in understanding the neuroplasticity, or growth potential, of the brain. “I want to truly understand the thing that controls every human being,” she said.

Both seniors take pride in more than their academic achievements, and say they believe their achievements are springboards to future success. They are aware of how they inspire their classmates and underclassmen, and are proud that they can leave high school knowing they set an example.

“I believe I’m an example of how staying determined and treating everything you do with love works out in the end,” Guaman said. “It warms my heart when people are proud of me and want to learn from the examples I set.”

“I am a big sister to my younger brother, but I also feel like a big sister to my younger friends,” Akou said. “Every time I doubted myself, I thought back to my friend telling me that there’s always someone wondering how I do it all.”

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 on the 24th day of March 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of

Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 29-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 29-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING

OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: March 24, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159251

Photos courtesy Malverne school district

Valedictorian Dayami Guaman, left, and salutatorian Lorraine Akou each received full scholarships to Johns Hopkins University and Emory University, respectively.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

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CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

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Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

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Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

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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 jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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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 $35,360 + 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 $35,360 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

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PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City.

HomesHERALD

Old Woodmere Beauty

MCan we use a local architect for work on a home in Boston?

Q. We own a home in Boston that needs a lot of work, and were wondering what to do about hiring an architect. We want to hire one who is familiar with the area, the codes and the building department, because we understand they are very strict there. We have a local friend who’s an architect, and he has gotten his “reciprocal” license in Massachusetts. How do you think we should handle this? Should we work with our friend, Zoom with a local architect or have them try to work together?

A. This is not an uncommon problem, but it’s all based on communication, as is most of what we deal with in our daily lives. It’s best to weigh the issues of how the communication will work, including the making of the plans, which are also the basis for your project and the most important communication tool.

Elliman

Over the years I’ve seen where clients didn’t take the planning process seriously, thinking, and even saying, that they just want to get the permit to start the work. That approach generally leads to failure, with either the owner not getting what they want or causing problems along the way. For example, many people assume that the plans are a suggestion, a kind of open guide to the approximate outcome, and that they will just handle changes for what they really wanted during construction.

One recent client, who didn’t last very long, was in another city and, being in the medical field, said we could do Zoom meetings like they do in tele-health. Conversations fell apart immediately, because the building has major structural deterioration, and on my first walk-through, I had to order column supports to be installed immediately where collapse was imminent. The owner was told this, and that, at the very least, building plans would be absolutely necessary, detailing the exact remedy. But in order to prepare the structural plans, measuring of the building areas contributing loads and further investigation were necessary. The owner got very upset, because his contractor was ready to go and just needed to know what to do.

Having made medical appointments over the years to get one test in a particular hospital, and then shuttling to another site for another test, I realized this client just didn’t get it. His profession required all kinds of very specific testing, and his perception was that mine did not. Buildings are custom. They’re not kits. There are many ways that buildings, even homes, can fail, and we always want to prevent leaking, movement and subsequent damage, in addition to wanting to make the spaces function and be attractive. I would recommend working with your friend, and having him develop an agreement and relationship with the local professional who knows the area best, if possible. Otherwise I would work with the local professional, but arrange for in-person meetings. With issues and questions that happen during construction, you want a good team of people you can trust. Good luck!

or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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GET

Nassau County’s success story continues

With my second term as county executive underway, I’m proud to say that Nassau County’s future is bright. Like my first term, these coming years will be defined by a strong commitment to public safety, excellent economic growth that increases affordability for our residents, and expanded opportunities for business owners that will benefit everyone.

raise even higher in 2026 and beyond.

Growing our economy remains a top focus for my administration.

After canceling a $150 million tax hike in my first year in office, I have not raised taxes for four consecutive years — a promise that I will keep in this year’s budget. Through smart financial management, we have earned an unprecedented seven bond upgrades and have been cited by Democratic State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli as a county with no fiscal stress. Our local businesses are thriving, with minority- and women-owned business certifications increasing by 40 percent last year alone — a number I hope to

Here’s

no one is coming back from Florida.

Just a few years after telling New Yorkers to “get out” if they disagreed with her agenda, Gov. Kathy Hochul is now hoping they will come back, after relocating their businesses and tax dollars to states like Florida, where raising a family and starting a business come with far fewer obstacles. New York has become unaffordable, overtaxed and hostile to economic growth. And nothing in Albany suggests that it’s about to change. Hochul’s statements, in an interview with Politico, have nothing to do with reconciliation and everything to do with revenue. Unfortunately, her $263 billion spending proposal isn’t going to pay for itself.

New York’s fiscal model has become dangerously dependent on a shrinking share of high-income earners. Democrats point to the number of millionaires as proof that increasing taxes on high earners won’t impact the tax base. The reality, however, is that we don’t

Positive economic activity lets us invest in initiatives that matter to residents. We’ve restored local historical sites like the Roslyn Grist Mill, invested in cultural centers like the Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum, in Hempstead, and upgraded local community hubs like Centennial Park, in Roosevelt. These are testaments to how a well-run government can provide for all of its residents.

since taking office, with more to come. We opened the state-of-the-art Harry Singh Bolla Police Training Village to give all of our officers, new and old, cutting-edge training to ensure that Nassau County remains a leader in public safety.

We’re focused on public safety, economic growth and business opportunities.

I’m proud to report that Nassau County remains the safest county in the United States, a distinction we owe to the courageous men and women of the Nassau County Police Department, the Corrections Department, the Probation Department, the Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office. These dedicated professionals — along with emergency services personnel like our firefighters, EMS workers and fire marshals — work tirelessly for our security, and we cannot thank them enough.

My administration recognizes the importance of investing in public safety efforts. I’ve authorized the hiring of 600 new police and corrections officers

During my time in office, our emergency services staff has also grown, with more than 1,000 residents signing up to become volunteer firefighters. This year’s budget will expand the number of fire marshals and dispatchers, ensuring that we are prepared for anything that comes our way.

The good news is that our initiatives are already paying off. Major crimes have fallen by more than 10 percent in the past year, with huge declines in serious crimes like murder, rape, assault and robbery. In 2025 our police executed the largest drug bust and gang takedown in county history. Major investments in our battle to alleviate the opioid crisis led to a drop of more than 16 percent in overdose deaths last year. These results speak for themselves, and show that our policies are working.

My administration has also taken steps to protect our religious freedoms.

why no one is coming back

have the same share of high earners we once did. More are choosing more affordable states like Florida and Texas, and given the punishing fiscal climate here, why wouldn’t they?

According to IRS data, New York’s share of the nation’s millionaires dropped from 12.7 percent in 2010 to just 8.7 percent in 2022, a more pronounced decline than any other state. New York used to have the second-highest share of U.S. millionaires, but we’re now fourth, behind California, Florida and Texas. When those high earners leave, or when fewer choose to come here in the first place, the consequences ripple across our entire economy.

I recently signed a new law that prevents protesters from targeting churches, synagogues and mosques. Nassau County will always stand for the safety and rights of everyone who practices their religion here.

Our stance on immigration enforcement remains firm: Nassau County is not a sanctuary county. Collaborating with our federal partners has helped us remove dangerous and illegal criminals from our streets — many of whom come from known gangs like MS-13, the 18th Street Gang and the Trinitarios. I want to reiterate that all of our enforcement actions are targeted at criminals, not honest and hardworking people who enrich our communities. My administration is continuing to work on a guest-worker program to support law-abiding immigrants, many of whom are pillars of our business community.

Even as we continue to build on our successes, I know that there’s a lot of work ahead to keep us moving in the right direction, but my commitment to making Nassau County the safest, most affordable and healthiest place to live, work and raise a family remains strong. Thank you for helping to make us the best place to live in all of New York.

Bruce Blakeman is the Nassau County executive.

from Florida

er 3.9 percent on top of that. The combined 14.8 percent is the nation’s highest tax burden.

Albany has a clear, detrimental cycle of spending recklessly, abusing taxpayer dollars and, as a result, driving people away. Every year, Hochul proposes another unprecedented state budget, and this year is no exception. Since she took office, state spending is up 40 percent, the budget deficit has grown to $28 billion, and New York is facing historic unaffordability.

M ore high earners are choosing more affordable states. Why wouldn’t they?

According to the state Department of Tax and Finance, millionaires pay 41 percent of all state income taxes, while the bottom half of taxpayers contribute 0.2 percent. Clearly, the foundation of New York’s financial house is built on the revenues high earners provide.

The irony of progressives’ tax-therich pleas is that New York has already been doing it for years, and at higher levels than anywhere else in the country. People in the state’s highest income bracket are taxed at 10.9 percent, with New York City adding anoth -

Following the governor’s proposal, Assembly Democrats fulfilled their tradition of piling on and proposed billions more in spending on top of the governor’s budget. Tax-andspending repeatedly increases to account for the implementation of unsustainable new programs and policies. This year, Democrats proposed $9.2 billion more in spending and $3.6 billion in new taxes, including higher income taxes on top earners and increased business taxes statewide, with additional increases specifically impacting New York City financial firms. Between 2020 and 2023, 158 financial sector companies, with $1 trillion in assets, left the state. With these tactics, New York isn’t going to win the tug of war against

more business-friendly, lower-tax states. In fact, it feels like we’ve let go of the rope. What Hochul and the Legislature are failing to acknowledge is the solution: spend less. It isn’t complicated. Albany has two choices, cut spending or raise taxes, and again it’s choosing Door No. 2.

The final phase of this annual cycle, the one the administration stills fail to grasp, is outmigration. When costs rise and opportunities shrink, people inevitably leave. Who would blame them? Our state ranks 45th in affordability, and overall costs have risen 20 percent since Hochul took office. Since 2020, New York has lost 1.1 million residents to states with lower taxes, a trend we cannot afford, literally.

If we want to reverse course, we need to break this cycle. One-party rule in Albany can’t continue unchecked spending and raising taxes while expecting different results. Under the current conditions, more New Yorkers will continue to leave, and fewer will come back. Hochul’s shifting rhetoric is driven by a budget mess she created, not residents’ needs. We Assembly Republicans want you here because we value you, and we’ll do everything we can to make New York more affordable and livable for you and your family.

Ed Ra represents the 19th Assembly District and is the Assembly minority leader.

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Smart housing reform needs local trust

New York’s housing crisis is undeniable. Rents are high, supply is tight and too many families are struggling to find a place to call home.

In response, Albany is advancing proposals like the REVIVE Act alongside Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Let Them Build agenda — efforts designed to cut red tape and accelerate development.

The goal is right. The challenge is getting the approach right, too. At the heart of the debate is a familiar tension: how to build faster without sacrificing thoughtful planning and public trust.

It’s not just about process; it’s about trust. Residents are more likely to support new housing when they believe their voices are heard. Developers are more likely to invest when rules are consistent. And elected officials are more effective when they can balance urgency with accountability.

Supporters of reform make a compelling case. New York’s development process is notoriously slow and expensive. Reviews under the State Environmental Quality Review Act can stretch timelines by years, even for projects that ultimately pose little or no environmental risk.

According to state data, projects can take up to 56 percent longer to start compared with other states, and cost up to $45,000 per unit on Long Island. Those costs are usually passed on to renters and buyers. In a state where affordability is already a crisis, those inefficiencies matter.

The REVIVE Act seeks to address this by targeting underused commercial properties — shopping centers, office

letters

Keeping things in numerical perspective in the Middle East

To the Editor:

parks and large parking lots — and encouraging their conversion into housing. In concept, this is smart policy. Repurposing dormant or declining properties into vibrant residential communities can ease the housing shortage while revitalizing local economies.

But the concerns raised by local officials and residents are just as valid. Critics argue that the legislation could sideline local zoning authority, limit public hearings and reduce meaningful community input.

The inclusion of a “deemed approved” provision — allowing projects to move forward automatically if municipalities fail to act within an expedited timeline — is a flashpoint.

One side says projects would move forward without public hearings or meaningful community input. That might overstate the case, but it isn’t entirely off base. The proposal appears to compress timelines and shift leverage away from local governments. If those timelines are too tight, or if municipalities lack the resources to review complex proposals quickly, the result could be approvals by default rather than by design.

And what about the timeline itself? That remains a critical detail. Without clear and reasonable deadlines, “expedited” can quickly become “unworkable.” Municipal boards might need additional support to operate on stateimposed clocks. If they are rushed, oversight suffers. If they miss deadlines, community members may feel that decisions are being made for them, not with them.

Yet it would be a mistake to dismiss

With all the rhetoric being bandied about over the war in the Middle East, I would like to add something that rarely seems to enter into the discussion. That is the size of the various sides. My source is the 2025 World Almanac.

Israel has an area of approximately 8,470 square miles, which is about the size of the state of New Jersey. The West Bank and Gaza have a combined area of about 2,402 square miles, which is about the size of the city of Detroit and the state of Delaware.

The area of Israel’s near neighbors — Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon — is just over 1.3 million square miles, or about one-third the size of the United States.

The population of Israel is just over 9.4 million. The population of the West Bank and Gaza is just

the need for reform altogether. Doing nothing is not an option. The current system is too slow, too costly and too unpredictable. Developers face uncertainty and communities can miss opportunities.

The answer lies not in choosing sides, but in combining the best ideas from both. New York should streamline environmental review for projects that consistently demonstrate minimal impact, particularly those on previously developed sites. It should set clear, enforceable timelines for decisions.

Those timelines, however, must be realistic, and paired with resources, training and technical assistance for local governments. The state’s proposal to modernize permitting and create a “permitting academy” is a step in the right direction.

At the same time, local decision-making must be preserved. Communities deserve a voice in shaping their neighborhoods, especially when it comes to density, infrastructure and quality of life. Public hearings should not be eliminated, but they can be made more efficient and focused.

If “deemed approved” provisions are included, they must come with safeguards: flexibility for municipalities acting in good faith, transparency in the review process and mechanisms to ensure that projects meet clear standards before moving forward.

New York doesn’t need a rushed solution. It needs a smart one. Albany has an opportunity to get this right. By blending efficiency with oversight, and speed with community input, lawmakers can craft a housing policy that works for all.

Why I sued the state over youth mental health

For years, my son cody and I were known in court papers only by our initials. Today I am using my full name — as a Long Island mother, a family peer advocate and one of the formerly anonymous plaintiffs in c.K. v. McDonald. I joined this class action lawsuit to challenge new york state’s widespread failure to provide mental health services to children on Medicaid.

In January, a federal judge approved a settlement, and the state agreed to dramatically improve access to these services. It’s a measure of justice, but it is incomplete without investments in the struggling nonprofit providers who deliver this vital care to kids like cody.

cody needed help almost from the moment he entered this world. I worked as an early childhood educator, and I recognized the signs. By age 3, he was diagnosed with ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder and severe social anxiety; at 4 he was psychiatrically hospitalized. He struggled to function in school. From ages 10 to 12 he was in a residential treatment center, where he finally

Letters

under 5.4 million. The population of Israel’s near neighbors is 188.2 million. As a reference, the population of the United States is nearly 342 million.

There are rights and wrongs on both sides, but the constant drive to destroy Israel is not the correct solution to these issues.

LAwrence Levy Rockville Centre

Your opinion Matters

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

began to thrive. In 2019 cody was discharged and came home. He was supposed to receive home- and community-based mental health services to give him the tools to re-integrate. He was entitled to at-home therapy to manage his emotions, as well as crisis respite services — an alternative to hospitalization to provide stability during crises.

cate, I saw the chronic understaffing, the underfunding, and the burnout.

we can’t afford to continue neglecting the services our children need.

He received care through Medicaid, its access guaranteed by federal law. But the reality was different: Providers changed constantly, programs had waitlists and services disappeared without explanation. without consistent, medically necessary services, cody couldn’t handle the transition to home, and while lingering on waitlists, he had his first suicide attempt.

All the while, I was working inside the system. I took a job with wellLife network, a nonprofit mental health provider, as a supervisor of communitybased services and a family peer advocate. These advocates are an indispensable component of our behavioral health system. we provide care as parents of children with mental health issues. As such, we are trusted messengers when offering services like skill development. But working as an advo-

I knew that the system was failing, even as my family lived it personally. And we aren’t alone. Across the state, three in four Medicaid-eligible children who need outpatient behavioral health services are not receiving them. The disparities are similar on Long Island, and grow worse the closer you look. eighty-five percent of Medicaid-eligible children in our area are not receiving the outpatient clinical services they need, and nearly 500 more practitioners are needed to fill the gap.

without an investment for providers to expand services, children will lose out on programs that stabilize them before a crisis lands them in the hospital, or in handcuffs. we cannot afford to continue neglecting these services. Medicaid reimbursement rates for them have stagnated, even as costs have risen. nonprofit providers can’t pay competitive wages. Staff leave, caseloads grow, and some programs stop offering Medicaid services altogether.

I joined that lawsuit because I was fed up with a broken system. Alongside three other families, we charged that new york was violating Medicaid law by failing to provide required communi-

ty-based services. As part of the settlement, new york must review long-inadequate Medicaid reimbursement rates to improve services. But the settlement gives the state a yearslong runway, and families can’t wait for reform.

If new york is serious about meeting both its legal and moral responsibilities, lawmakers must act this budget season. Providers across the state are calling for a $200 million investment to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for children’s behavioral health services.

Unfortunately, the governor’s and the State Senate’s proposed budgets do not include new resources. The Assembly did include $20 million to improve reimbursement rates, but that is far short of the support that is needed.

without investment, the promises in the settlement risk becoming hollow. It may be too late to give my son back the years he lost, but it doesn’t have to be too late for others.

every child on Long Island and across the state deserves timely mental health care in their home and community. The settlement made clear that new york falls short. now our lawmakers must make the investment necessary to turn that legal victory into real change for families like mine.

Christina Hauptman is a family peer advocate and a New York state peer specialist on the Intensive and Sustained Engagement Team at Hands Across Long Island.

Framework by Tim Baker

Cutting loose at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in front of St. Agnes Cathedral — Rockville Centre

APRIL 16 • 10AM-12:30PM

DEER PARK KNIGHTS

759 LONG ISLAND AVE, DEER PARK

FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle

Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers

Take advantage of on-site health screenings

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Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A

Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways

Snack station for all

*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees

All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.

AGENDA: VISIT EXHIBITORS

EXPERT PANEL + Q&A RAFFLE DRAWINGS MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN

Register for this FREE event: Deerpark.eventbrite.com or email lcreem@LIHerald.com or call 516.569.4000 x243