Community cleans up the trash at Halls Pond Park
By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com
The West Hempstead Community Support and Civic Association hosted a day of community service on Sunday by organizing a clean up of Halls Pond Park on Nassau Boulevard.
Sarah Greenberg, the association’s treasurer, and board member Kurt Rockensies orchestrated the event.
“We try to do the Halls Pond clean up once or twice a year, just to make sure the park is looking nice and clean,” Greenberg said. “A lot of people come through here in the spring and summer. They play on the
playgrounds, they’re around the ponds, so we just want (to) make sure it looks nice for everybody.”
The Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums dropped off supplies for the clean up, including gloves, garbage bags, rakes, shovels, brooms, grabber tools, and more. Volunteers from the community then gathered their needed supplies at the gazebo and set off into the park to help remove litter and debris.
“We just want to make sure that the one public space in town, the park and the playground, is clean for our community,” Rockensies said. “You know, this is really the
Continued on page 4
Malverne hosts burn center fundraiser
By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com
The Nassau County 4th Battalion Fire District and the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center Foundation hosted the annual Firefighters Burn Center Benefit at Malverne Fire Department headquarters last Sunday. Firefighters from Malverne, Lakeview, East Rockaway, Lynbrook and Rockville Centre attended.
“The foundation supports the burn center at the Nassau University Medical Center,” John Hennig, director of the Burn Center Foundation board and ex-chief of the Rockville Center F.D., said.
TThe
critical and acute care.
“This burn center is it for Nassau County — most of Long Island,” Hennig explained. “It stretches from the middle of Queens and out to Suffolk County — this is the burn center.”
hat’s where we step in.
foundation supports the staff above and beyond what the medical center will supply to the burn center
JoHN HENNIG Director, Nassau County Firefighters
Burn Center Foundation
NUMC, in East Meadow, houses a $6.7 million, 12,000-square-foot burn center. With its sophisticated technology, the specialized surgeons and nurses at NUMC can treat up to 10 patients at once, with beds for
The center’s expert staff helps burn victims with immediate pain and long-term healing, with a support team to guide patients through the process and a hospital-based peer support program called Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery. SOAR encourages people with shared experiences to support and assist one another to adapt to life with burn injuries.
“There was definitely a need at the burn center for different equipment, to help the staff with training, education, travel,” Hennig said.
“That’s where we step in. The foundation supports the staff above and beyond what the
Continued on page 3
Madison Gusler/Herald
Members of the West Hempstead community gathered at Halls pond park to participate in a clean up on Sunday.
The Kiwanis Club celebrates four years
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
The Kiwanis Club of Malverne celebrated their 4-year anniversary at SanDee Lanes on Mar. 25. Attendees enjoyed two hours of bowling and karaoke hosted by DJ Alex Castro.
President Eliza Tom reinstated the club in 2021, after several years of inactivity. She was motivated to create the club while trying to find more activities for her son during the pandemic.
“I was trying to find something for him to do, but I was told that they need a sponsor of an adult club first,” said Tom. “So we started an adult club, and at that point my son had already graduated, but I decided that it was something that was needed in the community.”
The club is a local chapter of Kiwanis International, a service organization dedicated to improving the world one community at a time. They have different organizational levels to engage with their communities, Kiwanis for adults, Circle K at the collegiate level, Key Club for high schoolers, Builders Club for middle school students, and K-Kids at the elementary level.
“If we start them young with the concept of service, thinking of others, and doing things for others,” said Tom. “Then they’ll grow up that way, and have a different mindset, and be doing
things for the world and in their communities.”
The club works on a range of projects in the community and beyond, partaking in initiatives from Kiwanis International and assisting Bellmore’s Kiwanis Club with their Thanksgiving project delivering meals to thousands of Long Islander’s. They’ve held community
SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1943
clean up’s, clothing drives, and recently hosted an emergency preparedness course at the library.
Tom said, “it’s hard to believe” that its been four years. “We do what we can, different things, and we try to support the local community.”
They’ve established a Key Club, but Tom would like to expand Kiwanis in
• Repairs & Touch-ups – Fixing minor issues that can deter buyers.
• Deep Cleaning – Making your home sparkle from top to bottom.
• Staging & Styling – Transforming spaces to highlight their best features.
• Organizing & Decluttering – Helping you declutter for a
the middle, intermediary and elementary schools. “This way students understand that you don’t have to be an adult to help out the community,” she said. “They can do something, there are different ways to help out.”
To join Kiwanis Club or establish a school club, contact Tom at Eliza.Kiwanis@gmail.com
Christine Rivera/Herald
The Kiwanis Club of Malverne celebrated four years since they were officially re-installed.
Jorge Roque Flores Glenda Morsello
Firefighters raise money for NUMC
medical center will supply to the burn center.”
The 4th Battalion, which comprises the Malverne, Lakeview, East Rockaway, Lynbrook and Rockville Centre fire departments, has hosted a fundraiser for the foundation since 2008, held each year at a different firehouse.
“Through the years it’s really grown in popularity,” Hennig said. “With social media getting out the information, people come from all over the county to whatever firehouse is hosting it that year.”
The money collected is donated to the foundation, to offset its financial supporting for the burn center. Hennig estimates that the 4th Battalion has raised nearly $200,000 at the events.
“This is open to the public too,” said James Lang, vice chairman of the battalion and ex-chief of the Malverne F.D. “It’s not just first responders that can come to these fundraisers, it’s for anyone and everyone.”
In addition to food and drinks, there were hand-rolled The Chief cigars, by KJD Cigar Co., for sale. There was live music by the Switch and the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums. Raffle tickets were available for purchase, and raffle prizes were donated by members of the participating firehouses and their communities. The baskets included a range of whiskeys, bourbons, wines, tools, gift cards, an air purifier, a free bounce house rental and more.
There was also a silent auction, by Long Island Silent Auctions, which featured exclusive items like sports memorabilia signed by Mike Tyson as well as members of New York’s professional sports teams, designer handbags, a CD display signed by Taylor Swift, a fourperson, four-night stay at a golf course in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and a
five-night stay for at a resort in either the Dominican Republic or Cancun. A portion of the sales from the silent auction will be donated to the burn center.
“You can see the amount of work that goes in to make this happen,” Hennig said. “It takes months of planning beforehand, they get the raffles, the logistics, everything. It’s a lot to get done, and Malverne has done an outstanding job.”
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
officers of the 4th Battalion f ire district with local elected officials. from left were Kevin Bien, James Lang, Chairman frank Wakely of the nassau County f ire Commission, malverne mayor t im Sullivan, rockville Centre mayor francis murray, County Legislator Scott davis, Joseph mihalach and michael Koppel.
the nassau County f irefighters pipes and drums played at the event.
Lakeview firefighters grigoryan Vazen, far left, isis ifill, Johnathan Shields, maybeline gonzolez, daniella Brun-Kestler and Jhaylin montas, enjoyed the fundraiser.
ex-Capt. guy Buonomo, left, and malverne firefighters robert ruffino, ileana feliz and mike Buonomo sold 4th Battalion t-shirts at the fundraiser.
Civic group cleans up West Hempstead
entrance way when people first come into West Hempstead, so we want to make sure it looks good.”
25 people participated in the event, including local Scouts, high school students seeking community service hours, support association members, along with members of the local Lions Club and others looking to get involved in a worthwhile community project. They spent three hours cleaning the park, despite the ongoing mist and light rain.
“We try to do the clean up at least twice a year to make sure that community members have that opportunity to participate and volunteer,” Rockensies said. “Even on a rainy day like this, it’s nice to see how people still come out and help.”
While the parks department keeps the park clean most of the year and is responsible for garbage collection at the park, community clean-ups provide community members with the opportunity to pick up small pieces of plastic and bottle caps that the department’s employees might not see lodged in the grass.
“We try to rake some of the leaves that are in the back,” Greenberg said. “You don’t really realize how much little stuff is all over until you’re really looking for it.”
Moshe Hill, a lifelong West Hempstead resident who’s running for Nassau County legislator in the 5th District, which includes Merrick and Freeport, described the importance of the community pitching in.
“I live right down the block from the pond,” Hill said. “It is a place I come to pretty much every week with my kids, and it’s wonderful. The parks department does a great job, and we like to help out whenever we can. We really need to ensure that all parks are clean and safe for all families in the area and not just
in West Hempstead, but throughout Nassau County.” County Legislator for District 14, William Gaylor, emphasized the need to keep the neighborhood park beautiful.
“This is where we live, work and play, and we want to keep it a nice area, especially Halls Pond,” Gaylor said. “We’ve got a beautiful kids’ park down here. There’s a lot of activity here every day.”
Volunteers filled more than 20 bags with garbage and waste collected around the park. After the clean up, parks department employees returned to collect the full trash bags, as well as the equipment loaned to the association.
The Young Family Estate Plan (YFEP)
Parents of young children often overlook the need to plan for death or disability. Many believe they don’t have enough assets yet or that anything they have will automatically go to their spouse. However, every young parent needs basic documents – a Will, Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy –what we term a “Young Family Estate Plan” (YFEP), that formalize your wishes in a variety of unexpected circumstances.
Without a YFEP, if one spouse dies, any assets that were in the husband’s or wife’s name alone will be subject to a court proceeding to name an “administrator” of the estate and New York law decides who gets which assets. The first $50,000 goes to the surviving spouse and the rest is divided 50% to the spouse and 50% to the children. The court will appoint a legal guardian to manage the money for them and then, ready or not, any remaining funds would be turned over at age 18. If your spouse becomes disabled, and
you don’t have a Power of Attorney for them, you must petition the court to be appointed as your spouse’s legal guardian to handle their affairs (such as selling or refinancing the house or drawing funds from their accounts). The court may decide against you as legal guardian and appoint someone else.
A YFEP also includes life insurance reviews and recommendations, so in the event your spouse dies you will have the financial resources to raise your children.
A YFEP (1) ensures that all of your spouse’s assets go to you and not half to your children if your spouse dies unexpectedly, (2) allows you to choose the legal guardian for your children, and at what age they will receive the unused assets, (3) avoids guardianship proceedings should your spouse have a disabling accident or illness, and (4) provides the financial wherewithal so that your children may continue to prosper and thrive.
“In the Town of Hempstead, we have absolutely beautiful parks, beautiful beaches, a lot of amenities, and it’s up to us to really keep it usable and pristine,” said Jean-Baptiste Carelus, who’s running for Deputy Supervisor and Senior Councilwoman Dorothy L. Goosby’s seat as Town of Hempstead councilman in the 1st District, which includes West Hempstead and Lakeview. “You don’t want to live in trash. You want to be able to come out to the park, enjoy the pond, enjoy the swing set, have a nice ball field for (kids). It creates community.”
Maureen Lennon/Herald photos
Vincent Wu, left, Jean-Baptiste Carelus, Kurt rockensies, Sarah greenberg, nassau County Legislator Bill gaylor, Lauren f ields and moshe Hill helped clean up debris in the park.
James Lynch carries out a bag of trash from Halls pond park in West Hempstead.
Jackson Hoh found an easter egg from last year’s egg hunt in a bush near the pond.
JULIANA CERASI
Wantagh Senior Lacrosse
IT HAS BEEN A HISTORIC run for Cerasi since last spring when she and classmate Riley Forthofer and the Warriors defeated Manhasset for the Nassau Class C girls’ lacrosse title. The pair went on to win county championships in soccer and basketball, making for a rare backto-back-to back. Cerasi earned All-County and Second Team All-Long Island in lacrosse in 2024 when she totaled 34 goals with 11 assists. She’s headed to James Madison.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, April 10
Baseball: Baldwin at Kennedy
Baseball: Long Beach at Mepham
Baseball: Hewlett at Calhoun
Softball: West Hempstead at Hewlett
Boys Lacrosse: V.S. District at Freeport
Boys Lacrosse: Clarke at Baldwin
Girls Lacrosse: North Shore at Garden City 5 p.m.
Friday, April 11
Baseball: Oceanside at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Baseball: V.S. North at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Baseball: Clarke at V.S. South 5 p.m.
Baseball: West Hempstead at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Softball: Lawrence at V.S. Central 5 p.m.
Softball: Long Beach at Freeport 5 p.m.
Softball: East Rockaway at Elmont 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Plainedge at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Carey 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at South Side 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Clarke at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Wantagh at South Side 7 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Manhasset at Long Beach 7 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
HERALD SPORTS
Malverne brings perfect roster mix
By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com
Is it more important to have good young talent to build around for years or veteran experience?
Malverne softball coach Nick Moreno doesn’t have to weigh in on that debate. That’s because the Mules have both.
“We have a bunch of good young players we’re really excited about and we have returning seniors I know are going to definitely help out,” Moreno said. “We lost some important players last year, but some of the girls coming back are more than able to handle the load and work with the young girls and keep us competitive for the year.”
In senior shortstop Olivia Jenkins, Moreno has a potential all-county candidate who can hit, field, and provides valuable leadership alongside fellow captains Olivia Brown, the starting senior first baseman and cleanup hitter, and senior centerfielder Nathalie Uribe.
“These three girls together have been great leaders for the younger girls, and great for the girls who have come back,” Moreno said.
Moreno lauds Jenkins, who will play at Division II Clark Atlanta University, for teaching the younger players some of the fundamentals, like sliding. The same is true of Brown, “our best communicator on the field,” Moreno said.
Sophomore Keanna Burgess, who transferred in last year, is a solid catcher for Malverne, which opened the season with back-to-back losses but rebounded to beat Hempstead.
Senior third baseman Tatiana Betancur has shown vast improvement from last year, going 4-for-4 in the win over Hempstead, junior Brea Haye has shown her ability behind the plate, tagging a runner out at home in addition to some solid defensive play, and senior Kayleez Rosario, the starting right fielder, has also made strides.
Leading the youth movement are a pair of freshmen in pitcher Arya Roopnarine and second baseman/designated hitter Jolie Romero.
“Arya is playing like she’s a junior,”
Nathalie Uribe is one of Malverne’s seven seniors and not only patrols center field but is a key ingredient in the lineup.
Moreno said. “And Jolie has a great swing, and we see her getting better and better as the years go on. She’s going to be an important part of the team for the future.”
Also seeing time at second base is sophomore Izabella Harichand, who Moreno thinks will make a huge impact this season, while senior Rihanna Rosario joins Roopnarine in the circle.
“Arya Roopnarine and Rihanna Rosario have both pitched great the first couple of games,” Moreno said. “We had a couple of setbacks first couple of games fielding, but these girls are good in that
they work on their mistakes and they improve on them. They don’t make the same mistake twice.”
The goal for Malverne, which went 13-3 a year ago, is to show improvement from the start of the season to the end.
“To get the nine position players better at their positions, make sure they’re able to hit — their timing is coming very quickly,” Moreno said. “The first game they had struggled with hitting and [against Hempstead] they had a ton of hits. We want to get a young team to improve with the veteran leadership that we have.”
Eric Dunetz/Herald
We don't do it for the attention. We don't do it for the recognition. We don't do it for the personal gain. And we certainly don't do it for the awards. We do it for you.
Catholic Health is the winner of Press Ganey’s 2025 HRO Foundation Award for exceptional reliability and patient safety.
At Catholic Health, we pursue the very best in health care for one reason only: you. Every single one of you that walks through our doors, every day. So, while we’re honored by this recognition, we also know there’s no finish line in health care. There’s always a new goal just over the horizon, and a new level of excellence for us to achieve for the health of Long Island.
Learn more at DedicatedtoBetter.org
Steven Kent appointed LIA’s chief economist
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Steven Kent, an economist and financial expert with over 25 years of experience with Goldman Sachs, was recently named chief economist of the Long Island Association Research Institute.
The LIA is a nonprofit business organization advocating for the region’s economic vitality and overall business community. In his role, Kent will provide real-time economic insights that will allow business across Long Island to forecast for operational success and growth.
“Our mission will be enhanced with the addition of Dr. Steven Kent to the LIA team as the new Chief Economist of the LIA Research Institute,” Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, stated in a press release. “The LIA will be well-served by his extensive private-sector experience and the valuable data and analyses he will provide to our members at this pivotal inflection point for the future of Long Island, and indeed the entire country, as we navigate uncertain economic conditions and the existential crisis of affordability.”
Kent is a lifelong Long Island resident, having grown up in Islip before
attending Stony Brook University, where he became fascinated with economics and received a B.A. in the subject.
“I walked into SUNY Stony Brook and took a class with one of the best professors on campus, intro to economics, and it basically changed my life,” said Kent. “I like the analytic part, the mathematical part, and the social science part.”
Kent joined Goldman Sachs as a junior analyst after graduating, before leaving for another firm and pursuing an MBA at NYU’s Stern School of Business. Then he returned to Goldman Sachs, where he researched and oversaw investments in the global hospitality and leisure sector before he retired as managing director in 2016. Kent was named “best stock picker” eight times by the Wall Street Journal.
“I learned you had to know the companies, you had to understand the stocks, but I started to look at what was going on in the broader economy,” he said.
After retiring, Kent wanted to share what he learned in the industry. “I always wanted to help the next generation of business leaders,” he said. “My whole career, both academic and business, I have had lots and lots of mentors
who guided me, focused me, and helped me out along the way. I wanted to do the same.”
Kent, a Baldwin resident, guest lectured at several universities before becoming a professor of economics and finance at Molloy University. He also received a Ph.D. in hospitality management.
Being named LIA’s chief economist was “a little bit of a surprise,” he said.
Kent will continue teaching at Molloy while serving the LIA. As chief economist, he will share data-informed insights and explanations of the Island’s economy, helping business owners make informed decisions about their businesses.
Kent will be releasing a newsletter broadly reporting on the U.S., New York, and Long Island economies. He will focus on specific topics and develop special projects to uplift the local economy.
According to Kent, Long Island’s current economy is vibrant. “Our unemployment rate is lower than the rest of the country. Our economic activity continues to expand,” he said. “One of the advantages Long Island has is where we’re located, so we have access to transportation and access to great universities, and that facilitates a lot of
growth.” He said he wants to “help to allow the Long Island economy to continue its robust trajectory.”
Courtesy Steven Kent
Steven Kent grew up in Islip, earned an economics degree at Stony Brook, and then joined Goldman Sachs.
Propel NY aims to update L.I. connectivity
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Propel NY Energy project is a $3.26 billion initiative aimed at modernizing Long Island’s aging electric transmission system.
Why the project Is needed
New York’s electric transmission infrastructure is largely outdated — roughly 80 percent of it was built before 1980, at a time when energy needs were vastly different. With electric vehicles, heat pumps, data centers, and advanced digital technologies there will be a projected 50 to 90 percent increase in electricity demand over the next 20 years. Long Island’s grid, currently connected to the statewide network through only two points, is vulnerable to congestion and outages.
The existing grid faces significant congestion, akin to a crowded highway, which leads to inefficiencies and increased costs. Propel NY Energy is designed to add new transmission pathways that facilitate bidirectional power flow, enhancing both the reliability and resilience of the grid. This project prepares the region for a more robust and future-ready energy infrastructure.
Project scope and technical details
At the heart of the project is the construction of 90 miles of new underground transmission lines, including 66 miles in Nassau County. Additional segments will extend into Suffolk County, the Bronx and Westchester. Unlike surface lines, these cables will be installed underground using conventional trenching methods — typically 5 to 7 feet deep. In logistically challenging areas, advanced trenchless technologies such as horizontal directional drilling will be used. Propel NY Energy will add three new interconnec-
tion points. This enhancement will enable power to flow in multiple directions, relieving congestion and providing critical redundancy.
Propel NY Energy is exclusively focused on upgrading electric transmission infrastructure. It is not associated with battery storage systems or offshore wind projects, though the upgraded grid will support future renewable energy integration. Selected through a competitive solicitation process by the New York Independent System Operator from among 19 proposals by four developers, the project was chosen for its costeffectiveness and technical merits.
Environmental and community considerations
To reduce new environmental disruptions, most of
the project’s new lines will follow existing road corridors and disturbed areas. For segments crossing environmentally sensitive zones, such as the Long Island Sound, the team is applying sediment transport modeling and best management practices. When unavoidable impacts occur — particularly in wetlands — compensatory measures will be implemented by creating two to three acres of new wetlands for every acre affected.
The project is undergoing a review under New York’s Article Seven permitting process. This comprehensive environmental and socio-economic evaluation involves multiple state agencies. Anticipated approval is around July 2026.
Regular open houses and public meetings are planned to keep local communities informed and dispel misconceptions. The project prioritizes local union labor and contractors, ensuring that Nassau County and surrounding areas benefit from job opportunities. Any temporary disruptions will be addressed through detailed restoration plans.
Cost, funding and timeline
The total investment for Propel NY Energy is capped at $3.26 billion, and is funded by ratepayers across the state. For the average residential customer, the project is expected to add roughly 6 cents per day to utility bills. Projected costs are expected to be offset by long-term savings, with enhanced grid efficiency estimated to save nearly $3.3 billion in congestionrelated costs over time.
Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026 and will continue for up to four years, with project completion anticipated by mid-2030. During construction, crews are expected to progress between 50 and 150 feet per day per.
For more on Propel, go to PropelNyEnergy.com.
The West Hempstead Secondary School Senior Class of 2025 took part in their Senior Prom Fashion Show on Mar.
West Hempstead Seniors walk the runway
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
The West Hempstead Secondary School PTSA hosted their annual Senior Prom Fashion Show on Mar. 26. in the auditorium. The seniors have the opportunity to walk the runway in their best dresses and suits for the audience to enjoy.
Money raised by selling tickets to the event, along with raffles and refreshments, is used to offset the price of tickets for those attending the prom.
“It’s just a fun night to celebrate the seniors, the kids really look forward to it,” said Roni Pendergast, a PTSA member who chaired the event with Mara Hogan. “It’s our last big fundraiser to get the cost of the prom tickets down.”
During the fashion show, the students come out in pairs and small groups to walk down the runway and strike a pose.
Snider’s Formal Wear donated the tuxedos. David’s Bridal previously donated dresses, but since they’ve closed, Pendergast and Hogan were able to collect donations from community members and neighboring towns. Franklin Square donated dresses, along with Estelle’s Dressy Dresses, and many of the girls wore dresses they already owned.
During the fashion show, the students come out in pairs and small groups to walk down the runway and strike a pose.
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
26.
Bryan Tator, left, and Victoria Covino shine bright in blue.
Cayla Hogan, left, Madison AbiAoun, Sara Dos Santos, and Samantha Solar strike a pose.
Jeremy Haynes, left with physics teacher Cole Johnsen, and Shiloh Brown.
Hadassah Batista, left, Angie Alfaro, and Sofia Sheehan were dressed up for the event.
STEPPING OUT
Where the audience always comes first
Long Island Children’s Museum Theater Director
Jim Packard says goodbye to his role of a lifetime
By Danielle Schwab
There are 140 seats at the theater at Long Island Children’s Museum and Jim Packard has sat in almost every single one.
“There’s not a bad seat in the theater. Wherever you sit, you can see the whole stage, and you’re no more than five, six rows away from the stage, which is pretty special,” he says.
Packard has been instrumental in the growth of the museum’s theatrical programming from inception, since the theater’s construction in 2001. It all begin with a committee he didn’t know he was on, when he was asked to consult on the museum’s theater then in development.
Prior to joining the museum, Packard was involved with theater and event management in Manhattan, and has taught stage technology and design.
“I was asked by a friend on the LICM theater committee to look at the plans the architect had drawn up. Then that spring, they had listed me as ‘not present’ at a theater committee meeting,” Packard recalls.
“I said: ‘I didn’t know I was on this committee, but I’m happy to serve on it and to help out the museum in whatever way I can.’ They said: ‘That’s all right. The committee has dissolved at this point.’
“I asked: ‘Who’s watching out for the theater?’ And that’s when I got hired.”
From his first position — as Theater Coordinator to his final role as Director of Theater Programs — Packard has made his mark over these past 24 years.
His philosophy, in keeping with the museum’s mission, is to put the audience first.
“It always boils down to making sure that the audience is the one that you’re paying attention to, because there’s no point in doing theater without an audience,” he explains. The productions are carefully chosen with a strong focus on audience interaction, with many tying into exhibits and related events.
“Our dressing room door has a big sheet of brown paper on it, and every time the actors hear something fun or interesting coming from the audience, they will write it on that board, just to remind them to pay attention to what the audience is saying,” he adds.
There is sure to be plenty of audience response to the upcoming production of “Elephant and Piggie’s We are in a Play!” The beloved show, opening April 14, which involves the audience as a character in the story, is always popular with visitors. Adapted from Mo Willems’ best-selling children’s series, the hilarious duo of Elephant and Piggie gets tangled in all sorts of antics, learning the meaning of friendship along the way.
“Elephant and Piggie realize there’s an audience watching them, and then they talk and interact with the audience, invite them to sing along and be a part of the show,” Packard says.
With Packard’s retirement this month, the production
• Performances April 14-19, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800 for tickets
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
acts as a passing of the baton to new hands. Taking on the assignment are not one but two folks: Lisa Rudin as artistic director and Austin Costello as technical director.
It’s a full circle moment for both Rudin and Costello, who appeared as Elephant and Piggie in previous stagings of the production.
Costello, a distinguished puppeteer in his own right, has worked with the museum’s theater since 2015.
His love of puppetry started back as a kid in ‘90s, when he visited the museum and saw a puppet on display. His career led him to roles in children’s theater, including Sesame Street.
“The little lessons that we find along the way in our shows are the major takeaways that we get to share with families and especially with kids who might be having problems. It’s such an important thing to me to bring children up in a good way, and to help them understand the world around them,” Costello says.
“It’s wonderful to be able to carry on the legacy of Jim, who’s worked so hard for so many people, and who has taken a lot of time to take me under his wing and train me,” he adds.
Rudin also has a personal history with the museum.
“The first time I came to the theater here was when I brought my children in 2019. I was like, ‘what a beautiful theater this is.’ This is just perfect,” she says.
She has worn many theatrical hats throughout her career, including as an actor on Sesame Street Live and an education director for a children’s theater school.
Rudin and Costello will surely continue the theater’s aim to connect with children through imaginative and creative storytelling,
”Children learn empathy from watching characters on stage. They understand content and what happens in the story more from seeing it live,” Rudin says.
While Packard may be waving goodbye as director, his legacy remains rooted to the museum’s very foundation.
Joan Osborne sings Dylan
The seven-time Grammy nominee brings her extraordinary voice and artistic depth to the timeless music of Bob Dylan.The recent biopic “A Complete Unknown” brings Dylan to the forefront once again. Meanwhile Osborne has spent over 25 years captivating audiences with her fearless exploration of genres ranging from rock and blues to soul, gospel and country. Her journey with Dylan’s catalog began in 2016 with a series of “Dylanology” concerts. Her critically-acclaimed 2018 album, “Songs of Bob Dylan,” and her live performances showcase her ability to reimagine Dylan’s iconic works, highlighting the emotional resonance and poetic brilliance of his music. Osborne turns back the clock with her soulful reinterpretations that exude passion, emotion and energy. .
Friday, April 11, 8 p.m. $59, $55, $48, also special VIP package. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Rick Wakeman
“When I was 19-years-old, walking
“When I was 19-years-old, walking across my college theater’s auditorium, I thought I could do this every day for the rest of my life — and I got that opportunity,” he shares.
“It’s been one of the more wonderful
“It’s been one of the more wonderful experiences in life, in terms of just getting to do so much that makes so many people happy.”
Photos courtesy LICM
Top photo: Outgoing Director Jim Packard, center, and cast and crew of “Interstellar Cinderella” gather at the final performance.
Bottom photo: Elephant (Finn MacDevitt) and Piggie (Anneka Shepherd ) return to the museum’s stage in a production helmed by new Artistic Director Lisa Rudin.
Experience the magic of progressive rock legend Rick Wakeman when he brings his “Final Solo Tour” to Long Island. Renowned for his keyboard wizardry and captivating stage presence, Wakeman invites you on a journey through iconic Yes classics, unforgettable solo compositions and personal favorites. With a career spanning over five decades and album sales exceeding 50 million, Rick’s extraordinary contributions to music have earned him accolades, including a CBE from Queen Elizabeth II. This tour is a heartfelt farewell to his legendary one-man shows in the U.S., but his music will continue to inspire fans worldwide. Rick’s career is a testament to his versatility and enduring artistry. His live performances seamlessly blend masterful musicianship with humor and storytelling, creating an intimate and unforgettable experience.
Wednesday, April 16, 8 p.m. $75, $65, $55, $45, $35, $29.50. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’ Spring blooms with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. Before you know back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Saturday, April 19, 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along.
The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/ backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione, have been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast coast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Jazz it up
Jazz at Lincoln Center brings its Webop Family Jazz Party’s “Swingin’ Nursery Rhymes and Lullabies” to the Long Island Children’s Museum theater, Sunday, April 13, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Get ready to hear classic nursery rhymes and lullabies like “Old McDonald,” “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and “Wheels on the Bus” with a jazzy twist! Led by talented musicians and educators, little ones will be introduced to the magic of jazz while singing, dancing, and joining in on the fun. This family-friendly performance is sure to inspire future jazz lovers, so be sure to bring the whole crew for a toe-tapping, finger-snapping good time! $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Go to licm.org or call (516) 2245800 for more information.
Mah
Jongg
Get in the game. Bring your mah jongg card and set to Malverne Public Library, Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m. Players of all experience levels welcome. For more information, visit malvernelibrary.org or call (516) 599-0750. 61 St. Thomas Place.
Little Learners’ Earth Day
Planting Fields Little Learners series continues with an Earth Day celebration, Friday, April 18 10-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a h,eartwarming and fun-filled experience, with a reading of “Gifts from the Garbage Truck” by Andrew Larsen. Together, explore the importance of reusing, reducing, and recycling in a way that’s perfect for young minds. With an Earth-inspired craft project. For ages 2-5. $15 per child. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. Visit plantingfields. org or call (516) 922-9210 to register and for information.
NAACP Meeting
The NAACP of Lakeview hosts a school candidate forum, Tuesday, April 22, 7:30 p.m., at St. Paul AME Church. 453 Pershing Blvd., Rockville Centre.
Easter Egg Hunt
West Hempstead Lions Club hosts their annual Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 12, at Halls Pond. The hunt will begin at 11 a.m. sharp Arrive a few minutes early to be ready for the countdown! Free admission. Open to ages 10 and under. Meet the Easter Bunny. With games, prizes, and raffles. Baskets will be for sale. 671 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead.
Lakeview Spring Cleanup
Join the Lakeview Civic Association for the annual Spring Cleanup, Saturday, April 12. Help make the community a cleaner place by picking up litter and beautifying the neighborhood. Meet at the Lakeview train station at 9 a.m. Email concerns.lakeview@ gmail.com with any questions or to sign up.
Bunny Hop & Shop
Malverne Chamber of Commerce hosts a Bunny Hop & Shop, Saturday, April 19, beginning 10 a.m., at the Gazebo. Walk through the Village to pick up eggs and gifts during this free event. With free eggs, toys, photos with the Easter bunny and Chamber Champ, balloon sculpting, face painting and more. 34-40 Church St., Malverne.
West Hempstead Budget Adoption
The West Hempstead Board of Education hosts their monthly business meeting, Wednesday, April 23, 7:30 p.m., in the Video Conference Room at West Hempstead Secondary School. This meeting will include the adoption of the 2025-26 budget, the BOCES budget vote, and the candidate vote. 400 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead.
Shred unwanted documents
Russo Law Group hosts an Earth Day Shred event, Tuesday, April 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at the firm’s offices in Garden City, Lido Beach. This is an opportunity to safely and securely dispose of sensitive documents while promoting environmental sustainability. All shredding is handled by Arrow Transfer & Storage, one of New York’s most trusted shredding companies known for security-conscious practices. Their process ensures the safe destruction of high security documents, protects against identity theft and financial breaches, and promotes sustainability by recycling all shredded materials.
Fraud awareness workshops are also offered, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Whether you’re decluttering old bills, outdated tax documents, or other sensitive paperwork, help positively impact the community and the environment. Free and open to all. For registration and more information, visit vjrussolaw.com. 100 Quentin Roosevelt Blvd #102, Garden City; 250 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach.
Having an event?
Spring Dog Festival
Get ready to wag those tails, at Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Bring your canine companions for a scenic stroll through grounds bursting spring’s first blooms.
Browse a selection of dog-friendly vendors offering unique products and services, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit oldwestburygardens. org.
Malverne Traffic Commission meets
Malverne Traffic Commission next meets, Wednesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m., at Village Hall. 99 Church St., Malverne.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum. org.
Hempstead House tour
April 13
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, April 13, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Lindenhurst’s Pat Benatar rocks and writes
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Singing and writing for over four decades, Pat Benatar has been inspiring her fans with hits including “We Belong “and “Love Is a Battlefield,” and new songs as well, performing alongside her husband and partner, Neil Giraldo. A multi-platinum artist who has had 15 U.S. Billboard Top 40 singles and a fourtime Grammy Award winner, Benatar is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, and even received the Key to Babylon from then Town Supervisor Steve Bellone. Benatar spoke with the Herald about what Lindenhurst still means to her, what continues to inspire her, and some exciting news.
Herald: What are your thoughts on having been inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame?
Benatar: It’s great. I’m still very attached to Lindenhurst. I’m still close friends with all of the girls I went to elementary school, junior high and high school with. We still see each other all the time. Every time we go back, I always try to go to Patsy’s to get a cannoli cookie and Italian Ice. I’m still attached to where I grew up. It was such a wonderful childhood, so being inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame was important and sweet.
Herald: You are not only a singer but a songwriter as well. What has inspired your writing over the years?
Benatar: It’s pretty organic. We don’t begin songs together, my husband and I. He’ll come up with a line or a melody and I’ll come up with a poem. I write all day, that’s all I do. So I’ll come up with a poem, which will become a chorus. Once we do begin the songs, we come together and write the songs together. Inspiration comes from everywhere, which is so fascinating to me, and probably the most seductive thing about what we do. Everything is still interesting, a mystery and exciting, because the world is just an amazing place — crazy and beautiful.
Herald: What has given you strength over the years to truly give your all at your live shows?
Benatar: I just love it. It has never changed for Neil or me. Live performance is still my favorite thing to do. The joy of actually being in a shared experience of performing is still the thing I love the most, that keeps me going, and it’s never old.
Herald: I’m sure you’ve had many career highlights. Are there a couple of moments that have stood out?
Benatar: There are so many moments. Sometimes they’re very small
— a little child will come up to the front of the stage and they hand you a flower. You’re always in awe of being blessed with something like this. I feel like my only job is to be a good steward of what I have.
The thing that stopped me in my tracks, though, I would have to say, was 9/11. We had to perform that night. The promoter begged us to perform. We begged him to please cancel the concert. We were just as distraught as everyone
else. The promoter said that people wanted to come, they wanted to be together. So we went out there and I just said to the audience that before we do this, I need to talk to you all first, because I don’t know how I’m going to do this and I may have to stop songs. The audience was sobbing. It was amazing. It was awful. They had bed sheets with God Bless America on them. This was one of the moments where you understand how important it is what you’re giving to each other in a performance. What they gave to me and what I hope I gave back to them at that moment is healing, it’s an embrace. That’s what it felt like. I felt like they were embracing us and we were embracing them. And songs like “Invincible,” were so powerful that night, it became like a rallying cry. I sang that song a billion times, but that night it was different.
Herald: Do you have any advice regarding resilience, overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, that you would like to share with our women readers in particular?
Benatar: Much has changed, and then much hasn’t changed, and someone is always ready to take it all back away from us. Everyone will push that limit, and you have to stand there like a warrior. Don’t think that you’re safe and everything is going to be OK, because every single day there’s someone challenging the position, trying to take away any strides we have made. I have two daughters, two granddaughters, and my whole thing is, you are unique and at the same time you are part of a collective, you are part of every female that went before you and every female that will go after you. Make it count!
Herald: And what do you have coming up in regard to new music, touring and projects?
Benatar: We’re going out on a spring tour and hitting all the places we didn’t hit last year. We’re looking forward to it. We’ll be pulling out a lot of new songs that haven’t been recorded yet. Neil and I also have a children’s book coming out, “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock.” It’s such unbelievable fun.
The one thing about art is it has so many forms. We have these three darling grandbabies. They are very precocious, and have seen us perform a few times, and they ask us all kinds of questions, so we thought it would be really fun to write them a book about why we do what we do and that people do all different kinds of things for jobs — some people are teachers and doctors, and these are people’s grandpas and grandmas too. It was joyous and fun, and it’s a very inclusive book. I really believe diversity is a superpower.
To learn more about “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock” or to pre-order a copy, visit read.sourcebooks.com/my-grandmaand-grandpa-rock-by-pat-benatar-andneil-giraldo. To find out more about Benatar and her upcoming tour, visit benatargiraldo.com.
Travis Shinn
Pat Benatar with her husband and creative partner, Neil Giraldo.
Join us on April 23rd at 6pm for a
What is an Energy Assessment? – Learn about PSEG Long Island’s free energy assessment, what it includes, and how it can help identify energysaving opportunities tailored to your business.
Cut Your Energy Costs – Get expert tips on simple, low-cost ways to start reducing your energy bills immediately.
Maximizing Rebates & Incentives – Explore available rebates and incentives to make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable.
Live Q&A with Energy Experts – Ask questions and get real-time answers from PSEG Long Island specialists on how to optimize your energy efficiency efforts.
Michael Voltz, P.E. Director,
April 10, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
Notice of formation of Pulse Point Headquarters LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 1/02/2025. Office located in Nassau. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 424 S Ocean Avenue Freeport, NY 11520. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 152127
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. 334 MOSEL CORP., et al, Defts. Index #604252/2024.
Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 26, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 35, Block 483, Lot 657. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The sale will take place “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.
JANE SHRENKEL Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #102168 152395
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P., -againstJUANA E. BONILLA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on October 19, 2023, wherein MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P. is the Plaintiff and JUANA E. BONILLA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 1, 2025 at
2:30PM, premises known as 234 SYCAMORE STREET, WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY 11552; and the following tax map identification: 35-377-40 & 41. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE, OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WEST HEMPSTEAD, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601557/2018.
Janine T. Lynam, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 152421
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff, -against-
Kimberly B. Hough, as Heir to the Estate of Kemp Hough, Sr., Kemp H. Hough, Jr., as Heir to the Estate of Kemp Hough, Sr., Midland Funding LLC dba in New York as Midland Funding of Delaware LLC APO Columbus Bank and Trust, Nassau County Traffic and Parking Violations Bureau, Palisades Collection, LLC a/p/o Providian National Bank, Midland Credit Management, Inc., New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, United States of AmericaInternal Revenue Service, Kemp Hough, Sr.’s unknown heirs-atlaw, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase,
inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in the real property described in the complaint herein, Defendants.
Index No.: 603980/2024
Filed: March 19, 2025
SUPPLEMENTAL
SUMMONS
Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.
TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANT(S):
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $27,000.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Nassau on March 23, 2017 in Bk-M VI 42003, Page 189 covering premises known as 83 Pinebrook Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.
Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: Bay Shore, New York
March 18, 2025
Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon LLP
/s/BY: Karen Sheehan
Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100
Our File No.: 01-098985-F00 152391
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Sale
Supreme Court: Nassau County Point 62 LLC v Francis W. Otto, III as Trustee of the Otto Family Trust et al. Defts Index 607465/2022 Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered December 6, 2023 I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on May 6, 2025 at 2:30 pm premises known as School District 12, Section 37, Block 214 Lot 317, Group Lot 317 Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 25% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee 152605
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR PARK PLACE SECURITIES, INC. ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-WCH1 Plaintiff, Against SHELLEY SOLOMON AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF ALAN W. SOLOMON A/K/A ALAN SOLOMON; SHELLEY SOLOMON, INDIVIDUALLY; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 02/18/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 5/8/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 35 Park Boulevard, Malverne, New York 11565, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Malverne, in the County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 35 Block 289 Lot 154, 155 And 156. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $1,160,560.00 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 003761/2010 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Brian Davis, Esq., Referee.
MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 3/5/2025 File Number: 18-301613 CA 152607
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PUBLICA, VOTACION DEL PRESUPUESTO ANUAL Y ELECCION DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNION DE WEST HEMPSTEAD WEST HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se celebrara una audiencia publica de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre Union 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 6 de Mayo de 2025 a las 19:30 h, hora vigente, para tratar los asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educacion del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes puntos: 1. Presentacion del documento presupuestario.
2. Debatir todos los puntos aqui establecidos, que se someteran a votacion mediante maquina de votacion, en la eleccion que se celebrara el 20 de Mayo de 2025, como se estipula mas adelante.
3. Tratar cualquier otro asunto que se presente debidamente ante la asamblea.
Y ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que dicha votacion y eleccion se llevara a cabo el 20 de Mayo de 2025, 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 estaran abiertas de 7:00 a. m. a 9:00 p. m., hora vigente, para votar mediante maquina de votacion sobre los siguientes puntos:
1. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el ano fiscal 2025-2026 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 Educacion por un periodo de tres anos, que comenzara el 1 de julio de 2025 y
finalizara el 30 de junio de 2028, para suceder a Burt Blass, cuyo mandato vence el 30 de junio de 2025.
3. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educacion por un periodo de tres anos, que comenzara el 1 de Julio de 2025 y finalizara el 30 de Junio de 2028, para suceder a Karen Brohm, cuyo mandato vence el 30 de Junio de 2025.
4. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educacion por un periodo de tres anos, que comenzara el 1 de Julio de 2025 y finalizara el 30 de Junio de 2028, para suceder a Byars Cole, cuyo mandato vence el 30 de Junio de 2025.
5. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Consejo Publico de West Hempstead. Biblioteca para el ano fiscal 2025-2026 y autorizar que la parte correspondiente se recaude mediante impuestos sobre los bienes gravables del Distrito Escolar.
6. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca por un periodo de cinco anos, que comenzara el 1 de Julio de 2025 y finalizara el 30 de Junio de 2030, para suceder a Leonard Zehnwirth, cuyo mandato finaliza el 30 de Junio de 2025.
Y ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones de nominacion de candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educacion del Distrito Escolar Libre de West Hempstead deberan 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 mas tardar el 21 de Abril de 2025, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora vigente. Todas las peticiones de nominacion deben estar firmadas por al menos 80 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de los dos porcentajes: 25 o el 2% del numero de votantes que votaron en las elecciones anuales anteriores); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, asi como el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Cada
peticion debera dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito y describir la vacante especifica para la cual se nomina al candidato. Cada vacante en la Junta de Educacion que se cubra se considerara una vacante especifica independiente. Y, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio, ya sea de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion de Nueva York, articulo 2014, o de conformidad con el Articulo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion de Nueva York, articulo 2014, y ha votado en cualquier reunion anual o extraordinaria de distrito en los ultimos cuatro (4) anos calendario, podra votar en estas elecciones; si esta registrado y es elegible para votar de conformidad con el Articulo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, tambien podra votar en estas elecciones. Todas las demas personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. La Junta de Registro se reunira con el proposito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion§ 2014 en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, Oficinas Administrativas de Chestnut Street, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, el 15 de Mayo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora vigente, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizara en la Votacion y Eleccion de Presupuesto antes mencionada, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendra derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunion de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se pruebe a satisfaccion de dicha Junta de Registro que el o ella esta entonces o posteriormente autorizado a votar en dicha Votacion y Eleccion de Presupuesto para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro preparado de esta manera de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion §2014 se
Public Notices
archivara en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio de Administracion, ubicado en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York, y estara abierto para inspeccion por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del 15 de Mayo de 2025, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora vigente, de lunes a viernes y cada dia anterior al dia establecido para la votacion y eleccion del presupuesto, excepto los domingos o feriados, y los sabados mediante cita previa, y en los lugares de votacion el dia de la votacion y eleccion del presupuesto.
Y, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunira el 20 de Mayo de 2025, en 450 Nassau Boulevard, West Hempstead, Nueva York, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m., hora vigente, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizara en la reunion anual y las elecciones que se celebraran en 2026, asi como en cualquier reunion especial que se celebre despues de la preparacion de dicho Registro. En ese momento, cualquier persona tendra derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunion de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre, a satisfaccion de dicha Junta, que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o en el futuro en la reunion o eleccion escolar para la que se prepare dicho Registro.
Y ADEMAS, POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que los votantes calificados con discapacidades que busquen informacion sobre el acceso a los lugares de votacion pueden, antes del dia de la votacion, comunicarse con el Secretario de Distrito al 516-390-3118 para obtener informacion sobre accesibilidad.
Y, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que, a partir de los siete (7) dias previos a la audiencia publica sobre el presupuesto del 6 de mayo de 2025, cualquier residente del Distrito podra solicitar la revision de una copia del presupuesto propuesto
presentandose en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, Nueva York. Ademas, cualquier residente del Distrito podra obtener un estado de cuenta de los gastos estimados para el ano siguiente durante los catorce (14) dias inmediatamente anteriores a dicha eleccion en el sitio web del distrito escolar www.whufsd.com, en la Biblioteca Publica 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 9:00 a. m. a 4:00 p. m., horario vigente, excepto sabados, 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, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con el Articulo 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 tambien formara parte del presupuesto final, mostrara que proporcion del valor catastral total en el registro catastral final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario esta exenta de impuestos, enumerara cada tipo de exencion otorgada, identificada por la autoridad legal, e indicara: (a) el impacto acumulado de cada tipo de exencion, expresado como monto en dolares 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 exencion 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 publicara en cualquier tablon de anuncios que mantenga el Distrito para avisos publicos y en cualquier sitio web que mantenga el Distrito.
Y ADEMAS POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes para las papeletas de voto en ausencia y para voto anticipado por correo se podran obtener durante el horario de atencion 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 Educacion, 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) dias antes de la eleccion, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) dias antes de la eleccion si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el dia antes de la eleccion, 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 mas tardar a las 17:00 h, hora vigente, del Martes 20 de Mayo de 2025. La lista de las personas a quienes se les habran emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia y la lista de todas las personas a quienes se les habra emitido papeletas de voto anticipado por correo estaran disponibles para su inspeccion por parte de los votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 15 de Mayo de 2025, entre las 9:00 h y las 16:00 h, los dias laborables previos al dia de las elecciones anuales y el 17 de Mayo de 2025, previa cita previa contactando al Secretario del
Distrito al 516-390-3118 y el 20 de Mayo de 2025, dia de las elecciones. Cualquier votante cualificado podra, tras examinar dichas listas, impugnar por escrito la cualificacion de cualquier persona cuyo nombre figure en ellas, exponiendo las razones de la impugnacion. Dicha impugnacion por escrito sera remitida por el Secretario de Distrito o su designado por la Junta de Educacion a los inspectores electorales el dia de las elecciones.
Y, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no esten 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 electronico a acruz@whufsd.com o enviarla por fax al 516-489-1776. La solicitud puede indicar la preferencia del votante militar de recibirla por correo postal, fax o correo electronico. Las solicitudes de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a mas tardar a las 5:00pm el 24 de Abril de 2025.
Y ADEMAS, 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 electronico a acruz@whufsd.com o por fax al 516-489-1776. Para que se emita una papeleta militar a un votante militar, la oficina del Secretario del Distrito debe recibir una solicitud valida de papeleta militar a mas tardar a las 5:00pm del 24 de Abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas de conformidad con lo anterior se procesaran de la misma manera que las solicitudes de papeleta no militar, segun la Seccion 2018-a de la Ley de Educacion. La solicitud de papeleta militar puede indicar la preferencia del votante militar por recibirla por
correo postal, fax o correo electronico. La solicitud de votacion militar original y la votacion 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 declaracion jurada firmada requerida por el votante.
Y, ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que las papeletas militares seran escrutadas si son recibidas por el Secretario de Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 20 de Mayo de 2025, mostrando una marca de cancelacion del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un pais extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo de otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a mas tardar a las 5:00pm del 20 de Mayo de 2025 y firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se verifique como no posterior al dia anterior a la eleccion.
Y ADEMAS POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educacion de conformidad con la Ley de Educacion de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referendum o propuesta para modificar el presupuesto, o que de otra manera se someta a votacion 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 mas tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora vigente, el 21 de marzo de 2025. Todas estas peticiones deben estar escritas a maquina o impresas en idioma ingles; deben dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmadas por al menos 200 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de 25 o el 5% del numero de votantes que votaron en la eleccion anual anterior); y debe indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educacion no aceptara ninguna
peticion para presentar a los votantes ninguna propuesta cuyo proposito no este dentro de la facultad de los votantes para determinar, ni ninguna propuesta o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley.
Y ADEMAS, SE NOTIFICA que aquellos votantes que deseen informacion sobre esta Votacion y Eleccion Presupuestaria en espanol deben comunicarse con la Oficina del Secretario de Distrito al 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 152383
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
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 6, 2025 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 20, 2025 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 20, 2025, 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 2025 - 2026 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 three-year term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2028, to succeed Burt Blass, whose term expires on June 30, 2025.
3. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2028, to succeed Karen Brohm, whose term expires on June 30, 2025.
4. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2028, to succeed Byars Cole, whose term expires on June 30, 2025.
5. To adopt the annual budget of the West Hempstead Public Library for the fiscal year 2025 – 2026 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the School District.
6. To elect one (1) member of the Library Board of Trustees for a five-year term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2030, to succeed Leonard Zehnwirth, whose term expires on June 30, 2025. 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 21, 2025, between 8:00am and 4:00pm, prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by at least 80 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 15, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, to add any
Public Notices
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 15, 2025, 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 pre-arranged 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 20, 2025, 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 2026, 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 6, 2025 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 21, 2025. In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018-a 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 20, 2025. 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 15, 2025, 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 17, 2025, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 516-390-3118 and on May 20, 2025, 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 24, 2025.
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 24, 2025. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a nonmilitary 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
Riesterer’s Bakery prepares for Easter celebrations
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Riesterer’s Bakery is a staple of the West Hempstead community, with 94 years in operation. A family business passed down through generations, their products remain handmade and delicious.
“Right now we’re preparing for Easter,” said Karl Riesterer, owner of Riesterer’s Bakery. “This is a big holiday for us. We make tons of chocolate and different Easter items.”
He estimates the bakery goes through
over 10,000 pounds of chocolate during the holiday, which they begin preparing in January. Molding the chocolate is a delicate process from tempering the chocolate, placing it in the molds and removing the final product. “When the chocolate is right and everything is perfect, they pop out of the molds very easily,” said Riesterer.
The bakery makes a range of different molds and shapes for Easter. Patrons can buy chocolate rabbits in a range of sizes, Easter cookies, bunny and chick cupcakes, lamb cake, and even bread with boiled eggs inside them.
Public Notices
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 20, 2025 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 20, 2025 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 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on March 21, 2025. 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 200 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 152310
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
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LEGAL NOTICE ASSESSOR’S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2025/2026 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2026 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2025/2026 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2024. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals located in the offices of:
DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days. Dated this 1st day of April 2025.
JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 152810
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CMG MORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, Against JANICE COGHLAN, AS EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM S. GROOMS A/K/A WILLIAM GROOMS, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/12/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 5/13/2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 17 Hopatcong Avenue, West Hempstead, New York 11552, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 35 Block 462 Lot 508 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $274,404.81 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 17-001008 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee.
MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 3/14/2025 File Number: 16-303695 CA 152820
for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
OUTSIDE
Is my neighbor’s menagerie legal?
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Q. My neighbor loves animals, so much that they have constructed little houses for feral cats and stray dogs. Although I haven’t said anything because we have a tall fence, and I don’t have to look at the menagerie of wildlife — including many ducks, squirrels and raccoons that also eat the food scraps my neighbor puts out — I wonder if this is allowed, and now that they’re starting to build very large bird “hotels” that I can see, I’m thinking this is really getting to be too much. Do they need approval to attract all of these animals, a permit or something?
A. There are restrictions, such as section 152-8 of Town of Hempstead code, prohibiting dogs at large. You can check your municipality code regulations, online, by typing in the name of your municipality followed by “ecode360.” Many communities restrict the number of pets and the containment of pets, and have a restriction that pets can’t be constrained for more than two hours to a stationary object, like a post.
Stray dogs and cats are prohibited, even though many people take care of them. I wrote about this 25 years ago, and received hate mail for my insensitivity to these cats and dogs, even though I was quoting the ordinances, in addition to writing about how to keep strays from wandering into your yard. If the strays become a problem for you, there are regulations that your neighbor may be subject to.
Birdhouses seem fairly innocent, and unless they’re built to an abundant size, like the “hotel” you describe, there are no limits. When there are a number of birdhouses, or they become large enough to fall under the regulation of treehouses and sheds, the regulations become relevant, and the construction of these “accessory structures” falls under the zoning codes. I’ve seen birdhouses with 25 units in them, which is large enough to make it necessary to regulate. It brings new meaning to Airbnb. I’m not sure if the local governments that placed prohibitions on renting out homes to transients also included the bird population, since most birds have no place to carry cash or a credit card, but it may be worth looking into in your spare time. A call to either your local building inspector or to animal and wildlife control centers can confirm the handling of the animals, and whether your neighbor is creating a nuisance. The biggest concern may be health considerations, since some species may carry diseases that can be harmful to other species or to you. For example, raccoons, cats and squirrels are known to carry rabies, and an even more dangerous disease called toxoplasmosis. They endanger dogs in particularly, since these diseases cause ailments that can cripple or destroy their immune systems. Cats are also in danger, and the droppings from each of these animals may also cause sickness in humans, but to a lesser degree. You are not wrong to be concerned. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Monte Leeper
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opinions Democrats put Nassau at risk by not passing Capital Plan
nassau County has enjoyed a lot of success during my time as county executive. Our residents have benefited from a no-taxincrease budget for three years straight, and I plan to deliver them a fourth. My administration cut $150 million in taxes planned by the previous administration. I hired over 300 new police and correctional officers to protect our streets. And the county was named the most desirable place to live in all of New York state by Niche magazine. But our county now faces a crisis that threatens to halt our growth and impede our progress. I am deeply disappointed and frustrated that the 2025 Capital Plan was not passed by the County Legislature. The plan, which is vital for the continued development and safety of all of Nassau, has been blocked by Democratic legislators who have refused to give it their bipartisan support. It is disturbing to witness such a politically motivated decision when it directly jeopardizes the welfare of our residents.
The implications of not passing the Capital Plan extend far beyond politics. I am very concerned about delaying funding for important public-safety initia-
Ttives. I am proud to say that Nassau County holds the title as the safest county in America, but we risk throwing that away and undermining the systems designed to protect our families and neighborhoods without the funding and resources guaranteed by the plan.
Under the negotiated proposal blocked by Democratic legislators, the plan would provide tens of millions of dollars in funding to secure essential tools for police officers who put their lives on the line to protect us. Those investments include:
■ $1.14 million for bulletproof vests
■ $1.1 million for tasers
■ $105,000 for upgraded firearms
als vehicle.
F ailing to secure this funding will hurt communities across the county.
■ $1.5 million for body cameras.
Support for our firefighters and emergency responders is also jeopardized while the Capital Plan stalls in the Legislature. For 2025 alone, we have millions of dollars budgeted for key items that include:
■ $3 million for new ambulances
■ $550,000 for new firefighting equipment and high-axle vehicles to save residents during floods
■ $500,000 to upgrade fire department communications system
■ $600,000 for a new hazardous-materi-
We also negotiated a six-figure investment in the Fire Service Academy Master Plan so that our volunteer firefighters get the best training available. Setting back that training by not passing the Capital Plan would be an egregious mistake by our Democratic legislators. On top of spending on public safety, the Capital Plan also includes important initiatives aimed at improving the county’s infrastructure, including improvements that will improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. The hamlet of Elmont, for example, was scheduled to receive $2.7 million in traffic and pedestrian safety improvements that are now being blocked.
Another $1.5 million in similar improvements was slated for the Village of Lynbrook, at the five-way intersection at Hempstead Avenue. Blocked.
We planned to spend $250,000 on traffic safety and pedestrian improvements for Merrick Road in Freeport. Blocked.
You can see just how quickly the money adds up. Failing to secure this funding will hurt communities across the county if we don’t act now. We cannot afford indecision or crass political posturing when our taxpayers are relying on us. I am calling on our Democratic legis-
lators to put aside politics and prioritize the well-being of Nassau County residents by passing the Capital Plan. It is time to focus on what truly matters — the safety and quality of life of our citizens. I also urge county residents to make their voices heard. Contact your legislators, express your concerns, and advocate for the passage of the Capital Plan. Here is the contact information for the Democratic legislators who blocked the plan and put you at risk.
Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton Phone: (516) 571-6211
Email: dderiggiwhitton@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Scott Davis Phone: (516) 571-6201
Email: SDavis@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Olena Nicks Phone: (516) 571-6202
Email: onicks@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Carrie Solages Phone: (516) 571-6203
Email: csolages@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Seth Koslow Phone: (516) 571-6205
Email: skoslow@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Debra Mulé Phone: (516) 571-6206
Email: dmule@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Arnold Drucker Phone: (516) 571-6216
Email: adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov
Bruce Blakeman is Nassau County executive.
A holiday homily: the family that ate its pets
hus it came to pass, in the Land of Brooklyn, that Morris Brownstein knew Anna Brownstein, his second cousin, and they begat Hilda, Murray, Pearl and Zelda. Pearl, third in the family order, was my mother, and the only one who seemed to have entirely escaped the questionable legacy of having parents who were also blood relatives. In the warm bosom of my mother’s nuclear family, accent on nuclear, Passover was a sacred time. Sacred not in a religious way, but in a culinary way. Grandma Annie and Grandpa Morris spared no effort in bringing to their four children an authentic holiday experience.
Perhaps the most cherished Brownstein family tradition was dining on homemade gefilte fish for the holiday. Let me digress. Gefilte fish (from the Yiddish word for “stuffed”) is an acquired taste. A cement-colored composite of various scaled fish, such as
carp and pike and whitefish, mixed with ground vegetables and matzo meal, it tastes like a fishy matzo ball. People eat it cold, with mouth-scorching horseradish to kill the taste.
When I say it is an acquired taste, I mean you had to be there at the beginning. Let’s see, it’s 5785 on the Hebrew calendar, so if you started eating gefilte fish two or three thousand years ago, you probably look forward to having it on the Seder table this year. You can’t just munch gefilte with no prior experience.
Mmade shoes out of sweet potatoes, and he didn’t want to spread himself too thin.
Anyway, keeping the carp in the tub wasn’t without consequences for the Family Brownstein. First, since the carp was in the tub for some time, and there was only one bathtub, well, draw your own conclusions.
y mother always wanted a kitten or a puppy, but learned to bond with a carp.
For her gefilte fish, Grandma Annie believed in going to the source, so she would buy a large, live carp and keep it in the bathtub for a week or two until it was time to ease it from its comfortable aquatic home into a grinder.
This was fish farming in its most primitive form. The business possibilities were not lost on young Murray, who was blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit. When he was 19, he considered buying up tens of thousands of bathtubs to raise carp. Unfortunately, at the time all his funds were tied up in a machine that
The second consequence of growing their own, so to speak, was that my mother, the most tenderhearted of the lot, immediately bonded with the carp. She had always longed for a kitten or a puppy, but her parents weren’t about to indulge her, so once a year she had what you might call a transitory experience in nurturing an animal. Granted, a carp isn’t much of a pet, but young Pearl had little else to call her own.
This was not what you would call a psychologically enlightened family. Since “Sesame Street” had not yet been created, Grandma would entertain her kids by taking them to the Canarsie slaughterhouse, where they would watch the chickens being killed. You can see why they didn’t worry much about young
Pearl playing with the carp in the tub. When the day came, a few days before Passover, Grandma was the designated executioner. This was an interesting division of labor, since Grandpa Morris displayed distinct homicidal potential, having once chased a woman around a butcher shop with a knife after she insulted President Roosevelt. He was also enlisted in a civilian patrol, looking for submarines in Brooklyn, when he fell into a sidewalk hole and wasn’t found for days. But that’s another story.
Anyway, Grandma Annie, ignoring all pleas for clemency for the fish, would drain the tub and dispatch the carp with her cleaver. A day later, they set a beautiful table, and after a few prayers, devoured the fish, which lived on in its new incarnation — homemade gefilte fish swimming in its own aspic.
For dessert, Grandma made what came to be known as the Cake of Affliction, a 12-egg, foot-high sponge cake that, year after year, stuck to the pan, fell like a pancake instead of rising like a soufflé and broke our hearts.
Copyright © 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
Spring into the new season by volunteering
as the winter chill fades and the warmth of spring sets in, April presents us with the perfect opportunity to step out of our homes and into our communities. It is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the vital contributions of volunteers and encourage others to take part in acts of service. With the season’s longer days, there’s no better moment to embrace the spirit of giving, and making a difference.
Volunteering is more than just a noble act — it’s a powerful way to foster change, make personal connections and enhance our well-being. Whether you’re helping clean up a local park, mentoring a young student or lending a hand at a food bank, your contributions have a lasting impact. This month, let’s not only celebrate those who dedicate their time to service, but also join them in strengthening our communities.
National Volunteer Month highlights the invaluable role that volunteers play in shaping society. The best, most selfless volunteering isn’t confined to a single day or week; it’s an ongoing effort that promotes social responsibility, empathy and collective progress.
It also benefits the volunteer. Studies show that devoting time to helping others can reduce stress, combat loneliness and engender a sense of purpose. It helps people acquire new skills and build professional as well as social networks, and often opens doors to new career opportunities.
One of the best aspects of volunteering is its flexibility — there’s something for everyone. Whether you have a few hours to spare each month or can commit to a regular schedule, there are countless ways to contribute. Here are just a few examples:
■ Community cleanups: Help beautify
letters
Thanks for a young woman’s perspective
To the Editor:
Great places to lend a hand
American Red Cross, Long Island Chapter 195 Willis Ave. Mineola (516) 747-3500 RedCross.org/local/new-york
Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center 100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove (516) 571-8040
hmtcli.org
Island Harvest 126 Spagnoli Road, Melville (516) 294-8528 (631) 873-4775 IslandHarvest.org
Last Hope Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh (631) 425-1884
LastHopeAnimalRescue.org
Long Island Cares 10 Davids Drive, Hauppauge (631) 582-3663 LiCares.org
United Way of Long Island 819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park (631) 940-3700 UnitedWayLi.org
your local parks, streets and other community spaces by picking up litter, powerwashing sidewalks or planting flowers.
■ Animal welfare: Volunteer at an animal shelter or foster a rescue pet. The need for volunteers at these facilities has
I very much appreciated Jordan Vallone’s recent op-ed, “Some thoughts on books, privilege and girlhood.” As a lifelong reader, I think life is so much more enjoyable having a good book to read. Books are, in many ways, our teachers. Vallone’s emphasis on the importance of books for young women dealing with this complex and stressful world is so relevant. As I look back on my teaching career, I think we should have had more literature from a woman’s point of view, focusing on the situations and problems they had to face.
And thanks to Jordan for her book suggestions. I feel I should read some literature from the perspective of young
never been greater.
■ Educational support: Tutor a student, chaperone a school field trip or help out in your local library.
■ Food assistance: Work at a food pantry or take part in a meal delivery program. Lots of community members lend a hand during the holiday season, but here, too, volunteers can find plenty to do all year round.
■ Health care and support services: Visit a nursing home, assist hospital staff, or support a mental health initiative.
■ Environmental advocacy: Take part in a tree-planting effort, a recycling program or a sustainability project.
April is also Global Volunteer Month, celebrating the many ways people and organizations support their neighbors and strengthen their communities around the world. Volunteer Recognition Day, April 20, will kick off National Volunteer Week, April 20-26, a weeklong celebration of the efforts of volunteers. There are numerous opportunities this month to take part in events, campaigns and initiatives that need and will welcome your help. It’s a time to take action, and inspire others to do the same. And by getting children and young adults involved, we can help instill a lifelong commitment to service and civic responsibility. Whether through school programs or community projects, we can encourage the next generation to embrace the values of kindness, empathy, and community involvement.
If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, let the month that symbolizes renewal and growth be the time you take that first step. Whether you join a oneday event or dedicate a few hours a week, your contribution matters. Step outside, lend a hand and experience the joy of making a difference.
opinions
We must address Long Island’s road safety crisis
the sudden rise in deadly accidents on Long island’s streets and highways is deeply alarming, and demands actions. Every seven minutes, a crash causing death, injury or significant property damage occurs on our roads. and our region currently leads the state in traffic fatalities: One in five deaths resulting from car crashes in new York happens on Long island.
The failure to secure our roads has led to thousands of lives being cut short, families tragically ripped apart and a terrible void left in too many of our communities.
i wrote to U.s. Transportation secretary sean Duffy, calling for immediate action to keep Long islanders safe. in addition to a federal investigation into the surge of fatal crashes, i urged Duffy and the Department of Transportation to issue specific recommendations to
Congress on additional funding or authority that the department needs to improve our roadways and increase safety for drivers and pedestrians.
i’m fighting for a comprehensive roadway safety strategy to encourage safer driving and create safer roads. This means giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources to police aggressive and unsafe driving, investing in infrastructure that puts safety first and keeping impaired drivers off our roads.
we’ve lost far too many community members to fatal traffic accidents.
Unsafe driving has devastating consequences that we can and must prevent. Every day, our nation’s law enforcement officers work to prevent serious accidents on our roads. But strained budgets and workforce reductions have harmed their ability to conduct traffic stops and other forms of high-visibility traffic enforcement. studies show that increasing high-visibility enforcement deters drivers from making reckless decisions that endanger others and makes our streets safer for all. additionally, i’m calling for infra-
Letters
people growing up in 2025.
More power to her pride in being a woman, her seeing the importance of literature for young women and her having the talent to bring attention to women’s stories that deserve to be told and heard.
JiM Hawkins Baldwin
Why so much opposition to the president?
To the Editor:
spreading propaganda is an evil tool used to create anger, hysteria, rage and jealousy among unthinking people. This method was successfully used in n azi Germany in the 1930s. i t encouraged book burning and k ristallnacht. i t appears very similar to Tesla burning and mob protesting against Jewish students at Columbia University.
w hen children are young, they are taught to obey their parents, because they are the adults. in a mob mentality, people behave very similar to children, because they are also told what to do, and encouraged to engage in destructive, harmful, irrational behavior. when those who attack our american citizens are released and defended by judges, whose civil rights are violated? Can judges overrule the president of the United states?
structure investments that prioritize safety, not speed. area residents have long voiced safety concerns about the southern state Parkway, sunrise Highway and other routes, which account for a disproportionate share of roadway injuries and fatalities on Long island. we should use proven safety countermeasures to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe on our roads, prevent roadway departures, and make intersections less deadly. i’ll continue to advocate for these common-sense improvements. in Congress, i’m drafting legislation that incentivizes states and localities to build roundabouts, which make intersections safer. By introducing these measures into our infrastructure planning, we can significantly reduce roadway fatalities and injuries.
we must also take action to keep impaired drivers off the roads. Many road safety groups have endorsed lowering our drunken-driving limit to a blood alcohol content of .05 percent. There’s strong evidence that lowering this limit
reduces the number of crashes and saves lives: after Utah lowered its drunken-driving limit to .05 percent in 2018, fatal car crashes dropped by nearly 20 percent over the next calendar year. i support the push at the state level to bring this limit to new York, and i’m exploring federal options to make this the law of the land across the U.s
we’ve lost far too many community members to fatal traffic accidents. it’s time for local, state and federal authorities to come together to improve our roadways and increase safety for drivers and pedestrians.
i’m proud to represent Long island on the House Transportation and infrastructure Committee, which has authority over the nation’s highways and bridges. as Congress considers a new surface transit reauthorization bill this year, the committee will be a key player in negotiating this bill. i’ll continue to use my seat on T&i to advocate for our communities, make smart infrastructure investments and push for policies that keep drivers, passengers and pedestrians safe.
Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
Framework by Tim Baker
we need strong leadership to prevent civil disobedience and violence, and more credit must be given to President Trump, who was given this arduous task by a clear majority. why is there so much opposition?
PaT kinG Merrick
The Senate should not confirm D’Esposito
To the Editor:
Just how much confidence can we have in a failed congressman, anthony D’Esposito, whose brief tenure was marked by slavish obeisance to the grossly unqualified President Trump (before he returned to office), and who now, ironically, Trump has appointed inspector general for the Labor Department, which the administration is eviscerating, after Trump has dismissed independent inspectors-general in more than a dozen such agencies?
The answer is a resounding, n ot a scintilla of trust!
More likely, like the multi-failed kari Lake in arizona, who lost races for both governor and senator but became Trump’s nemesis of the hugely successful Voice of a merica, D’Esposito is keeping a political profile for a return run for elective office.
They, along with the current adminis-
tration, belong not to a (Pete) Hegseth “meritocracy,” but together form the gang that couldn’t shoot straight: incompetent, ignorant, intolerant and dangerous to our liberal democratic
republic. D’Esposito should be denied s enate confirmation.
asHEr MaTaTHias Woodmere
At Culinary Delights at the Mansion — Glen Cove
Laura a . GiLLen