Malverne/West Hempstead Herald 05-07-2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

Malverne/West HeMpstead

HERALD

Crossroads Farm is open again

By NOAH PERETZ

nperetz@liherald.com

The reopening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at Crossroads Farm at Grossmann’s took place last Saturday, marking the changing of the seasons and reflecting the hard work of the staff during the winter, led by Operations Manager Michael D’Angelo.

Malverne Mayor Tim Sullivan, village Trustees Megan O’RourkeSchutta and Carl Prizzi and Chamber of Commerce members welcomed Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti to the event.

“I always say it takes a village, but your efforts here have gone beyond just a village,” Sullivan told the farm’s staff before the ribbon-cutting.

Local and area businesses

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Honor Flight Long Island: brothers in law and in arms

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

Honor Flight Long Island hosted the 19th annual Spring Honor Flight last Saturday, an all-expenses-paid day trip from MacArthur Airport to Washington, D.C., for area veterans who have not had the chance to see the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War memorials.

Malverne residents Donald Brady and Stuart Gelband were among the 46 participants. Vietnam War veterans of the Army and Navy, respectively, Brady and Gelband

signed up for the flight together. They live a few blocks away from each other and are brothers-in-law.

Gelband was initially hesitant to go on the trip because, he said, “I’m not a hero. I consider my brother to be a hero, who actually fought in combat for periods of time.” Gelband’s older brother also served in the Vietnam war. “He died young,” he said. “He came home with a lot of issues. So that weighed on me before I thought about doing this.”

Brady encouraged Gelband to go on the flight with him,

and Gelband relented, wanting to see the memorials himself, but also to honor his brother. “I finally yielded and said I’d do it, with some intrepidation,” he said.

“I’m going to go think about my brother, and hopefully feel less guilty about doing it,” Gelband added. “I do feel guilty that he never got the full recognition, but all he wanted was to be left alone. I’ll go think of him like I do every year when we have Memorial Day and Veterans Day.”

Gelband served on the USS Intrepid during his time in the

Navy, from 1970 to 1972. After returning to the US, he worked with the U.S. Postal Service for 35 years as an operation programs analyst.

Gelband is also a member of the Intrepid’s Former Crew Member Association, including a four-year stint as its president, and continues to volun-

teer at the Intrepid Museum.

“Basically, my life came full circle with the Intrepid,” Gelband said. “It’s become a huge part of my life, even after all these years.”

Brady was a welding specialist in the Army, and served in Vietnam for a year. After

ConTinued on paGe 10

Noah Peretz/Herald

The village board, county representatives and the staff of Crossroads Farm at Grossmann’s cutting the ribbon for the grand reopening.

BELMONT PARK VILLAGE

STEPS FROM UBS ARENA

Belmont Park Village turns the gift into a full day out.

Discover designer fashion finds from Valentino, Missoni, Longchamp, lululemon and more, at up to 65% off, plus delicious dining and special Mother’s Day experiences worth sharing.

Give her the gift of Belmont Park Village

things to know About skin CAnCer

Enjoying the sun comes with responsibility and risk

By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

One of the best parts of living in a beach community is being out in the surf, sand and sun almost every day. But one overlooked drawback to all that time outdoors is an increased risk of developing skin cancer — the most common form of cancer across the country. Every May, health professionals look to share advice and bring attention to this persistent, potentially deadly issue.

n Simple steps save lives

The National Cancer Institute suggests that people with fair skin, freckles, blue or green eyes, and red or blond hair are at a higher risk than others, but everyone can and should take preventative steps to reduce the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

Applying an appropriate sunscreen — SPF 30 or higher — can help protect against ultraviolet radiation and reduce the chance of sunburn, which are factors in cancer development. Wearing the right clothes when outdoors, including sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats, can also reduce UV exposure. Reducing the time spent outdoors when the sun is strongest — generally 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — could be the most difficult to adhere to, but can also be a major factor.

n Know the ABCDE’s

Dermatologists recommend using “ABCDE” to monitor yourself for potential melanoma. Check your skin for dark spots or moles and look for potential warning signs including <ITAL>asymmetry</ITAL> with one section of the mole looking very different from the other in size, shape, or color; the <ITAL>border</ITAL> of the spot shouldn’t be irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined; its <ITAL>color</ITAL> should be consistent and not mottled with tan, black, white and/or red; if the <ITAL>diameter</ITAL> is larger than a pencil eraser, about 6 millimeters or almost a quarter-inch, it may be suspicious and worth getting checked by a professional; and the spot shouldn’t <ITAL>evolve</ITAL> over time, drastically changing its shape, color, or size over the course of weeks, months, and years.

n There is no “good” cancer

One subtle way people misspeak after hearing about someone’s diagnosis is with the phrase, “That’s one of the good ones to get.” While the thought is well-intentioned, it still underestimates key facts. Some skin cancers can have a relatively high cure rate, but it also has a genuine mortality risk.

One in five people will be affected by skin cancer before age 70. The American Cancer Society estimates 112,000 new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in 2026 — counting only the aggressive melanoma type, not the more common basal cell or squamous cell cancers — leading to more than 8,500 deaths. Skin cancer may be treatable, especially if caught early, but it should never be taken lightly.

Malverne High School celebrates success at annual Model UN

Malverne School District announced the successful conclusion of MalMUNC, the school’s Model UN conference held on April 18. The event brought together student delegates from throughout the region to engage in high-level diplomacy, critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.

Throughout the conference, participants stepped into the roles of international diplomats, representing their assigned nations with distinction. Students engaged in rigorous debate and negotiated complex resolutions on pressing global issues, including international security and human rights. The delegates were praised by observers for their thorough research and commitment to the spirit of international cooperation.

“Our students continue to impress us with their dedication to understanding the complexities of our world,” said Malverne High School principal Dr. Kesha Bascombe. “MalMUNC provides a vital platform for developing the leadership and public speaking skills necessary for the next generation of civic-minded leaders.”

The success of MalMUNC highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to academic innovation and the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. By participating in these simulations, students gain handson experience in parliamentary procedure and perspective-taking, preparing them for future success in a global society.

— Noah Peretz

Courtesy Malverne UFSD Student organizers gather after the successful MalMUNC conference held on April 18.

COMING SOON!

News briefs

Lakeview Fire Department

Pickup truck overturns on Southern State

Our annual keepsake section is coming!

Don’t miss the chance to support the class of 2038 with an ad or special greeting. Speak to your rep today or contact Rhonda at (516) 569-4000 x250 or rglickman@liherald.com.

Don’t miss the bus reserve your space now! real local, real news.

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Ettinger Law Firm Well-Being Tips

Ettinger Law Firm promotes the well-being of our clients as well as the public at large. Here are some thoughts to help ease your day.

“All life is an experiment and the more experiments the better”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Set peace of mind as your highest goal, and organize your life around it”

– Brian Tracy

“Accept what is. All pain comes from resistance” – Zen saying

“Holding on to anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”

– Buddha

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” – Shakespeare

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of all virtues, but the parent of all the others” – Cicero

“When you’re good to others, you are best to yourself” – Ben Franklin

“The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Who is rich? He that rejoices in his portion” – Ben Franklin

“Nothing in life is so hard that you can’t make it easier by the way you take it”

– Ellen Glasgow

“Life appears to me to be too short to be spent in nursing animosity or regret”

– Charlotte Bronte

“Not money, or success, or position, or travel, or love makes happiness - service is the secret”

– Kathleen Norris

“To understand all is to forgive all”

– Evelyn Waugh

On the morning of Saturday, May 2, A pickup truck overturned on the Southern State Parkway after a crash that involved three vehicles, according to authorities.

The crash occurred near Exit 18 to Eagle Avenue at about 8:40 a.m.

State police say one of the drivers who was involved in the collision was under the influence of alcohol.

State police say 35-year-old Patrick Esposito, of Franklin Square, was going

west in an SUV when he hit the pickup near Exit 18.

After being struck by Esposito, the pickup truck then crashed into another SUV and overturned

Esposito was arrested for driving while intoxicated, according to authorities.

The Lakeview Fire Department says the driver of the pickup suffered minor injuries.

— Noah Peretz

Malverne earns national music distinction

Malverne School District is proud to announce its selection as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation. This prestigious national distinction, now in its 13th year for the district, is awarded to schools that provide exceptional music access and highquality instruction to all students.

The honor recognizes the collaborative efforts of teachers, administrators, parents and students who ensure that the arts remain a vital component of a well-rounded education. This milestone highlights Malverne’s long-standing tradition of excellence and its dedication to fostering a vibrant, creative learning culture.

“Music is part of the DNA of the Malverne School District,” said Michael Messina, District Supervisor of Music and Fine Arts. “Earning this recognition year after year is a testament to the unwavering support of our community. From our elementary music programs, through our middle school ensembles, to the award-winning High School Select Choir and Pride of Malverne Marching Band, we strive to pro-

vide a space where every child can find their voice and flourish through creative expression.”

This year’s recognition follows a standout season for the music department, including spectacular performances of “Beetlejuice Jr.,” “Chicago: Teen Edition,” and the upcoming “Annie Kids,” as well as continued success from various choral, string and instrumental ensembles. Research consistently shows that participation in music programs leads to higher academic achievement, improved socialemotional skills and increased student engagement. In Malverne, this tradition ensures these benefits are accessible to every child, from their first notes in kindergarten through their final high school performances.

The district applauds its dedicated music faculty, talented students, engaged parents and supportive board of education for sustaining this remarkable legacy of harmony and achievement.

— Noah Peretz

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

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

grants, and savings will vary with every project.

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

jAxsON tORREs PLAINEDGE Junior Baseball

ONE OF MANY REASONS the Red Devils have established themselves as one of the favorites in Nassau Class A baseball, Torres threw their second no-hitter this spring April 27 in Plainedge’s 8-0 win over Locust Valley. The righthander struck out 15 and walked only one as the Red Devils won their 13th straight game without a loss. The performance upped Torres’ record on the mound to 5-0 with a 1.75 ERA and 0.61 WHIP with 56Ks in 28 innings.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, May 7

Softball: South Side at Hewlett 4:30 p.m.

Baseball: Plainedge at Mineola 4:45 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Seaford at Wantagh 5

Baseball: Massapequa at Oceanside

Baseball: Uniondale at V.S. Central 5 p.m.

Softball: Farmingdale at Plainedge

Softball: Baldwin at V.S. North

Softball: Uniondale at Sewanhaka

Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at North Shore 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: South Side at Garden City 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Manhasset at Farmingdale 5:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Plainedge at South Side 6 p.m.

Baseball: V.S. South at East Rockaway 7 p.m.

Friday, May 8

Softball: Lynbrook at Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Baldwin at Freeport 5 p.m.

Softball: Glen Cove at Wantagh 5 p.m.

Softball: Mepham at Oceanside 5 p.m.

Softball: East Meadow at Plainedge

Softball: Garden City at Long Beach

Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy

5 p.m.

Baseball: New Hyde Park at Calhoun 5 p.m.

Baseball: Hewlett at Carey 5 p.m.

Baseball: Mepham at Clarke 5 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 year.

Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Pitching carrying West Hempstead

MICHELLE RABINOVICH

bkacharaba@liherald.com

You know the saying offense wins games but defense wins championships?

It’s something the West Hempstead baseball team takes to heart. Standing 8-3-1 overall, its strength is dead center in the field: the pitchers. Purely coincidentally, those on the mound are as lethal in the batter’s box.

“We’ve got more arms than usual this year,” said Rams coach Rob Bauer. “We’re pretty deep this year compared to years in the past.”

Enter junior Tim Pendergast, who is 4-1, has a 1.56 ERA, and 45 strikeouts. When he picks up the bat, he also happens to have a .500 batting average and .683 onbase percentage, with 3 homers, 16 RBIs, 21 runs and 21 stolen bases.

“[Tim] has been one of our main guys for the last three years, he’s been on varsity since he was in the eighth grade and he’s a junior now,” Bauer said.

There’s also junior Jon Oquendo. 1-0 right now with a sub-1.00 ERA and 12 strikeouts, his heat is dominant, no matter the weather nor wind on Long Island. His offense is punchy too: .722 avg, .848 onbase 14 RBIs, 15 runs and 17 steals.

“[Jon] has a little bit of everything, he even catches a little bit; plays third, players center, pitches,” Bauer explained.

Senior Brendan Felix has been putting on a show lately with his fastball and slider, his bread and butter. Originally an ace when he was on the JV according to Bauer, he transitioned to a bullpen piece when he was brought up to the varsity level. The starting rotation was saturated with upperclassmen. Now an upperclassman himself, he is back to dominating, stepping up amongst the rotation.

“This year, especially the last two or three weeks, he’s really stepped into some big shoes and filled the back end of our rotation really well and he really battles,” Bauer said about his right-hander. “The big thing about Brendan is that he commands the zone, especially at the high school level, throwing strikes is really essential.

“You find a lot of times in our confer-

Ron Manfredi/Herald

Senior Ryan Mitchell is a key member of the pitching rotation and also an important bat for the Rams, who stand 8-3-1 overall.

ence that one of the biggest issues is that teams struggle to throw strikes, so we know when Brendan’s out there, at least we know that the ball is going to be put into play or he’s going to be around the zone to give us a chance defensively,” the coach added.

Senior Dom D’Agosto is making a name for himself on the diamond. Not only is he behind the plate daily, he also posts a .429 batting average. Bauer also said that the growth between last year to this year for D’Agosto has been massive,

with the slugger taking on a much bigger presence both on the field and in the clubhouse.

With him in the offense are senior Ryan Mitchell and his .417 avg, 9 RBIs, 20 runs and 15 steals, as well as Tim Hill, a freshman center fielder who leads off with a .500 on-base percentage and 20 runs. Mitchell is one of the key arms in the rotation as well.

“We’ve had a lot of contributions throughout the lineup, really one through nine,” Bauer said.

What PSEG Long Island advises to stay safe during hurricane season

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Hurricane season begins June 1, and during National Hurricane Preparedness Week, PSEG Long Island urges customers to prepare early, strengthen safety plans and understand steps that help reduce damage and improve recovery after storms.

n Grid improvements and ongoing storm prevention efforts

PSEG Long Island has spent the past 12 years strengthening the electric grid to better withstand extreme weather and allow for faster power restoration after storms.

These improvements include elevating substation equipment above flood levels and installing stronger poles and wires to increase system resilience. In addition to infrastructure upgrades, PSEG Long Island maintains a year-round tree trimming program to help minimize storm damage. This program identifies and trims tree limbs in rights-of-way and along easements that could cause outages during or after a storm. Together, these efforts are designed to reduce the impact of hurricanes on Long Island’s electric system while improving reliability and restoration times for customers.

n Preparing your home and emergency supplies ahead of time

PSEG Long Island encourages customers to put together an emergency plan and prepare ahead of hurricane season.

Home preparation includes reinforcing your home to withstand high winds, storms and flooding, as well as pruning trees and shrubs to remove dead branches near the home that could cause unnecessary damage. Customers should also gather essential emergency supplies in advance, including a battery-powered radio with fresh batteries, flashlights, blankets, nonperishable food and bottled water. Additional preparation steps include planning for refrigeration of medicines or power-dependent medical devices, charging cell phones and tablets, keeping cash available in case banks are inaccessible, filling vehicle fuel tanks, bringing in unsecured outdoor furniture, and compiling a list of emergency phone numbers.

n Safety precautions and staying connected during storms

Customers should take important safety precautions before, during and after a hurricane. Generators and fuel must always be used outdoors and kept at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages to prevent carbon monoxide exposure. Homes should have working carbon monoxide detectors on every level, as the gas is colorless, odorless and dangerous. Downed wires should always be considered live, and people should never approach, touch or drive over them. If a wire falls on or near a vehicle, remain inside and call 911 unless fire requires exiting safely. Customers can stay connected by reporting outages, receiving updates, and monitoring restoration through PSEG Long Island’s app, text alerts, website, social media and MyPower outage map.

things to know About MentAl heAlth AwAreness Month

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

May is recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health conditions, reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek support when they need it. First established in 1949, it has grown into a widespread effort involving schools, workplaces, healthcare providers and communities across the country. In recent years, conversations around mental health have become more open, highlighting how common anxiety, depression and other conditions are and how important it is to treat mental health with the same seriousness as physical health.

n Mental health conditions are far more common than people realize

Mental health conditions affect millions of people each year in the United States. About one in five adults experiences a mental illness annually, ranging from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions like bipolar disorder. Many more people experience stress, grief or emotional challenges that may not meet clinical definitions but still significantly impact daily life. Despite how common these struggles are, stigma often keeps people from talking about them openly or seeking help. Mental Health Awareness Month helps normalize these conversations and reminds people that they are not alone. Mental health challenges are a part of the human experience — not a personal failure — and support is widely needed and shared.

n Early help and treatment are highly effective

Getting support early can make a major difference in managing mental health conditions. Treatments such as therapy, counseling and medication are effective for many people, especially when started early. Support can also come from school counselors, community programs or workplace resources. In recent years, telehealth has made it easier for people to access care from home, helping reduce barriers like transportation or scheduling. The month also emphasizes the importance of everyday coping strategies, such as exercise, sleep, mindfulness and social connection. While these do not replace clinical treatment when needed, they can support overall well-being and resilience. The key message is simple: no one has to wait until they are in crisis to seek help.

n Stigma still prevents many from speaking up

Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles to mental health care. Many people still hesitate to talk about what they are experiencing because they fear being misunderstood, judged or labeled. This can delay treatment and make symptoms worse overtime. Simple actions — like listening without judgment, using respectful language and sharing accurate information — helps create a safer environment for discussion. Stigma reduction is not only about awareness but also about action, like supporting policies that improve access to care, encouraging mental health days in schools and workplaces and making resources visible and easy to find. Small, everyday efforts can help create a culture where mental health is treated with the same openness and care as physical health.

Honor Flight takes veterans to Washington memorials

returning home in 1971, he earned a degree at Queens College, eventually became the New England regional manager for with Mack Trucks, and retired in 2013. Brady’s wife, Barbara died in 2024.

“I feel very honored to go — I’ve never gone to see all the monuments,” Brady said of the Honor Flight. “For the first 20 years out of the service, we weren’t recognized, so it’s a good feeling that servicemen and women are finally being honored.”

Brady said he appreciates the camaraderie among Vietnam veterans, and veterans in general. He is a member of Malverne’s American Legion Post 44. “You meet guys who served at all different times, and from all different ranks,” he said. “You have that in common that you can talk about, and that people outside your circle don’t understand.”

The Honor Flight program was created in 2005 by Earl Morse and Jeff Miller, a year after the World War II Memorial was dedicated in Washing -

ton. The organization’s mission was to take veterans who didn’t otherwise have the means to visit to the memorial on flights to see it.

Honor Flight Long Island was estab-

lished in 2007, by Chris Cosich, of Amagansett who served as its president until he died in 2014, and was succeeded by Bill Jones, of Southhampton.

“The first honor flight, Long Island,

flight took place in October of 2007,” Jones said. “And so we have been around since then, and we have flown over 2,200 veterans from Nassau and Suffolk County.”

Jones laments the way the country treated Vietnam veterans when they came home from the war, but appreciates the fact that they are no longer maligned for their service in the divisive conflict. “When they came back, they could not talk about their experience over there,” he said. “Finally, the general public is really trying to make up for that wrong by welcoming them home.”

Jones plans to organize Honor Flights for veterans of more recent wars soon. Many World War II and Korean War veterans are gone, so he plans to open registration to veterans who fought in the Middle East. “Absolutely, we will be opening it up to Gulf War and Afghanistan veterans,” Jones said. “All of those people involved in the War on Terror will also be a part of our program for sure.”

Malverne students explore post-secondary paths at annual

Malverne High School gym served as a center for academic exploration on April 30 during the school’s annual College Fair. The event provided students with the opportunity to interface directly with representatives from a diverse range of higher education institutions, including national universities, local colleges and specialized technical programs.

Throughout the event, students engaged in detailed discussions regarding academic majors, campus life and the financial aid process. The fair is designed to streamline the transition from high school to post-secondary education by bringing various resources together in a single, accessible location.

The event highlighted the proactive approach students are taking toward their long-term career and educational goals. Representatives provided insights into admissions requirements and scholarship opportunities, helping sophomores and juniors narrow down their prospective choices and gain insight into the upcoming college application process.

Successful coordination of the evening was made possible through the efforts of the Malverne High School Guidance Department and the participation of recruiters from across the region. This annual tradition remains a cornerstone of the district’s commitment to ensuring every student is prepared for success beyond the classroom.

Michael Chamberlain/Honor Flight Long Island malverne resident donald Brady served in the army in Vietnam.

Michael Chamberlain/Honor Flight Long Island malverne resident Stuart gelband served in the navy during the Vietnam War.

— Noah Peretz

Courtesy Malverne UFSD malverne High School students engage with representatives and explore future opportunities during the annual College fair on april 30.

Courtesy Malverne UFSD representatives taught malverne students about postsecondary paths at the annual College fair on aptil 30.

Courtesy Malverne UFSD malverne High School students spoke with higher education representatives during the College fair on april 30.

CELEBRATING

ROOTED IN STRENGTH

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

ABIGAIL DUNNE, RN

Glen Cove Hospital

Northwell Health

Abigail Dunne’s path into healthcare began during her high school years in Locust Valley.

“I went to Locust Valley High School and I took an EMT course and I started volunteering in the Bayville Fire Department as an EMT,” Dunne, 23, says. “I decided that I really enjoyed helping people and I really liked being able to help people in ways that others couldn’t necessarily.”

Her experience in emergency medical services shaped her decision to pursue nursing, to provide what she described as a deeper level of care.

“So it was more than just offering emotional support, but now it’s like physical support and seeing people get better, get stronger. It’s just been something that’s always made me feel really good. I just love helping people.”

Dunne went on to attend nursing school while a nursing assistant at Glen Cove Hospital, where she has been employed since September 2022.

“I’ve worked at Glen Cove ... I was a nursing assistant during nursing school.”

She relates that her role as a nurse centers on compassion and service to others.

“I feel like being a nurse, it’s really just about being able to give to other people. We know people are sick and being able to help them deﬁnitely is very rewarding in itself.”

Healthcare runs in her family. Her sister works in EMS and as a nurse at Plainview Hospital, and her greatgrandfather was a doctor.

- As told to Roksana Amid

TAMEKA WALLACE, RN

Glen Cove Hospital Northwell Health

Tameka Wallace, 42, vice president and chief nursing ofﬁcer at Glen Cove Hospital, did not initially plan a career in health care.

“My path was ﬁnance,” Wallace says, explaining that she once hoped to pursue her father’s career path. “I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps. He worked on Wall Street, and I was always fascinated.”

Her trajectory shifted after she took a job in hospitality services at North Shore University Hospital at age 16. By 18, she had moved onto a Telemetry unit, where she discovered her passion for patient care.

“Once I was able to get on the ﬁrst unit, I fell in love with patient care services.”

That experience, coupled with working alongside her mother, helped shape her future.

“I actually started nursing school with my mom. We did nursing school together, and we actually graduated together as well.”

Wallace, who has been with Northwell Health for 26 years and a nurse for more than two decades, shares that her work is rooted in advocacy and compassion.

“What nursing means to me is being the patient and caregiver’s advocate; making sure that they feel that they are at home, away from home. You want to put the patient at ease at a very tough time in their life.”

Now in a leadership role, Wallace aims to highlight the broader impact of the profession.

“My goal is to make sure that we get the word out on how special nursing is. It’s not just being at the bedside, we touch so many people in so many ways.”

- As told to Roksana Amid

EBONI NORVILLE, RN, NURSE MANAGER

St. John's Episcopal Hospital

Episcopal Health Services

As a child, I have always had a love for medicine. One of my ﬁrst toys was a stethoscope, and I loved to play doctor and surgery on my dolls. My favorite television shows have been related to medicine. My late father would say “Medicine is in your blood! You’re born with it!”

One day, I could not help but to ask my father why he said this. He went on to explain that his aunt worked as an RN in England for over 20 years, and my grandmother worked as a CNA. As I thought about this, I realized that he was right! Some of my fondest memories as a child are of my family members caring for the elders.

Upon further reﬂection I realized my most cherished childhood memories involve my family instinctively knowing how to care for our elders, anticipating their needs for healing or comfort. As I matured, the realization struck me: the care, compassion, attentiveness, and nurturing instinct that is within me, is the core of nursing. Almost instinctively knowing what's needed to heal or cure others.

Throughout my professional life, I have had the privilege of working in diverse settings, and those fundamental nursing principles have remained constant. Today, I am incredibly proud and grateful to be a registered nurse.

LUCKENDY CHERY, RN, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

St. John's Episcopal Hospital Episcopal Health Services

My desire to become a nurse was shaped early in life, growing up surrounded by healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, physicians and a long line of nurses across various specialties. It felt like a path I was always meant to follow.

Although I brieﬂy pursued a degree in business administration, it didn’t take long for me to return to my true calling. My journey began as an EMT, where I was known for going above and beyond in patient care, showing compassion, empathy and a commitment to doing my best. My curiosity led me to seek more than just immediate care. I wanted to understand what happened to my patients after I transferred them and how their care continued.

This curiosity led me to work as a Behavioral Health Technician for five years, where I supported patients on a Behavioral Health unit. There, I saw firsthand the profound impact nurses had through compassion, teaching and therapeutic interventions. I found fulfillment in reinforcing coping skills and lessons patients could carry back into their communities. Ultimately, my experiences, curiosity and support system guided me to nursing.

Now, after one year as a nurse, I embrace my role as an educator, advocate and leader entrusted with lives and responsible for making a meaningful difference. I chose nursing to be a positive force in the lives of patients and their families, to educate them in ways they can understand, and to serve as an example that empowers others to advocate for themselves and pursue nursing as well.

Excellence in All You Do! Thank You, Nurses.

At Mount Sinai, we proudly honor the strength, compassion, and expertise of our nurses, and recognize the essential role they play in caring for our patients and supporting the communities we serve.

Mount Sinai’s nursing team creates excellence together every day. Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside and Mount Sinai Queens have each earned the prestigious Magnet® Recognition three times consecutively, while The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan has received this distinction ﬁve times in succession—an honor achieved by less than 3 percent of hospitals in the United States. This recognition reﬂects an unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care and consistently better outcomes.

As we celebrate Nurses Week, we proudly recognize the dedication and excellence of the nurses who make this achievement possible every day.

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

MITCHEL MARAVILLA, BSN, RN-BC

Mount

Sinai South Nassau

Becoming a nurse has been my dream since childhood. This aspiration began when I had to care for my father at a very young age. Sadly, he passed away shortly after I graduated from nursing school, but his memory continues to inspire my passion for this profession.

Nursing is a noble calling. The ability to care for others and help save lives is both a privilege and a gift — one that I carry with deep pride. For the past 25 years, I have dedicated myself to this profession, including 13 meaningful years at Mount Sinai South Nassau.

Throughout my career, nursing has taught me far more than clinical and technical skills. It has instilled in me the values of compassion, dedication and selflessness. In this profession, I learned that true fulfillment comes from serving others with a selfless heart. Helping without expecting anything in return and choosing to do what is right even when no one is watching.

Currently I work on F3, the Oncology Med-Surg/Telemetry unit, where teamwork and service are at the heart of everything we do. I work with amazing colleagues where we do more than just care for patients; we care for one another. We stand side by side like a family, lifting each other up and sharing both the burdens and the victories.

Over the years, MSSN has faced many changes and challenges. Yet, one thing has remained constant: our deep sense of belonging. We do not simply work here; we consider this institution our second home and continue to serve with compassion and purpose.

IVAN TAGLORIN, MSN, RN

Mount

Sinai South Nassau

Born in South Nassau, raised in the Oceanside community and now serving patients within it, my journey into nursing has truly come full circle. I began my nursing career in 2016, driven by a passion for helping others. A passion instilled in me early on through the values of my parents, who were both nurses.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of growing within the profession, starting as a bedside nurse, advancing to Assistant Nurse Manager, and now serving as a Nurse Informaticist. Each role has shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to patient care. While my responsibilities have changed, the core of why I chose nursing has remained the same.

To me, nursing is more than caring for the illness in front of me. It is about recognizing the individual behind the diagnosis. It is about understanding that every patient has a story, a family, a life beyond the hospital room. Nursing means showing up for people during some of their most vulnerable moments and providing not only clinical care, but also compassion, dignity and support.

In my current role, I contribute to patient care on a broader level by improving systems and implementing technologies that empower nurses and enhance the care experience for patients. Supporting nurses in delivering safe, efﬁcient and high-quality care is just as important as the outcomes themselves, as it ultimately shapes every patient's interaction. No matter the setting, my goal remains the same: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

I am grateful for the opportunities that have brought me to this point and for the ability to continue serving others through nursing.

BETHANY LAWSON, RN

Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Bethany Lawson’s path to nursing began with a simple instinct: to care for others. Growing up, she was drawn to comforting people in difﬁcult moments, a trait that steadily evolved into a calling.

Today, Lawson is a medical-surgical nurse at Mercy Hospital, where she has worked for 13 years, ﬁrst as a patient care assistant before earning her nursing degree.

Her role is wide-ranging, from caring for psychiatric and elderly patients to performing IV therapy and phlebotomy. The variety keeps her engaged, but it is her mindset that deﬁnes her work. She approaches every patient as if they were family, a perspective that guides her through long hours and difﬁcult days.

“What keeps me going is I come to work every day, and I always treat my patients like they're my mom, my sister, my brother, my grandparents. The fulﬁllment I get from knowing I've done my part is unmatched, and it continues to motivate me to show up every day with the same passion and dedication.”

Lawson relates her decision to advance in the ﬁeld came early in her career, when she realized she wanted to do more for her patients. That drive pushed her back to school and ultimately into nursing, where she could expand her skills and impact.

She credits the supportive, familyoriented environment at Mercy Hospital for helping her grow, noting that colleagues encourage one another to improve and deliver the highest level of care to the community they serve each day.

“Nursing means helping others when they're unable to help themselves, putting my patients' needs at the forefront, and caring for them the way I would care for myself or my loved ones.”

- As told to Brian Kacharaba

GABRIELLE DEL GATTO, RN

Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Gabrielle Del Gatto discovered her calling in nursing after initially pursuing a career in education, ultimately realizing she wanted to serve people more directly in their most vulnerable moments.

Drawn to the emotional and clinical demands of patient care, she entered the nursing profession in December 2024 and quickly found meaning in the fast-paced, high-responsibility environment of the hospital setting.

On a Medical-Surgical unit, she cares for a diverse mix of patients, managing multiple assignments per shift while striving to improve each patient’s experience through attentive care each day on the unit.

“Honestly, I'm very religious, so I always wanted to work for Catholic Health hospitals because they just align with my values,” she says. “But for me, God is my never-ending motivation. Every single patient that has stood in my path, I know that they're sent to me from God. So even if things seem like they're not going the way they're meant to be, I know it's all part of the plan, and I don't question it.”

Early in her career, Del Gatto found afﬁrmation after forming a strong connection with a patient and family, an experience that led to a Daisy Award nomination just ﬁve months after practicing independently and reinforced her sense of purpose.

“My favorite part is when a patient looks me in the eye and tells me that they appreciate everything [I’ve done for them]. It is the best feeling in the whole entire world.”

She credits Mercy Hospital’s supportive culture and teamwork for helping her grow, noting the hospital’s shared commitment to compassionate care and the opportunity to learn and develop as a new nurse at Mercy.

- As told to Brian Kacharaba

Take Your Place in Healthcare

CELEBRATING NURSES

NICOLETTE MASCIOLI, RN Northwell

MELISSA SMALL, RN Northwell

NLong Island Jewish Medical Center

icolette Mascioli spent eight days in March on a mission trip to Guatemala. It was not a glamorous, Instagram-worthy vacation. Instead, she and other volunteers — through her alma mater Sacred Heart University — provided care in remote villages. Anyone who knows the 24-year-old Farmingdale native would not be surprised.

Today Nicolette is a registered nurse at Long Island Jewish (LIJ) Medical Center in New Hyde Park, specializing in a Post-Surgical unit that handles everything from neurosurgery and plastic surgery to colorectal procedures and hysterectomies.

She started her volunteer streak at age 15 when she spent time with the child life program at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park by entertaining, playing and bonding with sick youngsters. She followed that up as an LIJ volunteer. Little did she realize that a career in nursing — let alone a staff role at LIJ — would be in her future. After all, no one in her family had pursued a career in health care.

“I’m grateful to have made an impact on someone else’s life — even a little,” says Nicolette, the oldest of three sisters. “I feel like I do learn something new every day. I did not expect the opportunities that I’ve had through nursing.”

The Guatemala mission through her Catholic university was made possible by a donation from LIJ to cover her travel expenses. Nicolette brought back a greater appreciation of the need in the world and good she can do.

“It was life changing,” she says. “It really reshapes your perception.”

– As told to Jason Molinet

MLong Island Jewish Medical Center

elissa Small went away to college, a Jamaican immigrant living the American dream. But the leap proved too great financially and she was soon back in Brooklyn working a string of department store jobs. She even considered joining the U.S. military. Then a chance encounter with a nursing assistant who sold an alternative future pushed her into health care.

Today Melissa, 40, of Jamaica, Queens, is a registered nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center — the last 13 years in the same unit. Eight Tower is LIJ’s surgical oncology floor, with a focus on abdominal, lung and pancreatic surgery patients.

Looking back, the climb up seemed improbable. She worked in a nursing home, then received certifications for phlebotomy and electrocardiogram testing. Her big break was landing a temp job at LIJ, which eventually grew into full-time employment.

“I would recommend health care if your heart is in it,” Melissa says. “I can’t imagine my life not being by the bedside. I like to be around people — our patients are like family — so nursing is great for that.”

Northwell helped fuel her growth. Aided by tuition reimbursement, she earned an Associate’s degree in Nursing followed by her Bachelor’s degree.

The leveling up of her career continues. Commuting part-time to New Jersey, she graduates from William Paterson University on May 20 with a Master of Science in Nursing, part of its family nurse practitioner program.

“Northwell has encouraged me to do more. The opportunity is there if it’s in you to do more."

– As told to Jason Molinet

Dedicated to our communities. ,

Always leading. Always caring. Always learning.

They comfort, advocate, heal and inspire — often all in the same shift. Nurses bring skill, compassion and unwavering dedication to every patient encounter while helping shape the future of healthcare through leadership, education and innovation.

During National Nurses Week, we pause to recognize the extraordinary professionals who stand at the heart of our healthcare system. From routine visits to life-saving emergencies, from welcoming new beginnings to offering comfort in life’s most difficult moments, nurses are there through it all.

Their work demands resilience, expertise and endless empathy. We depend on their steady presence and commitment every day. Simply put, healthcare would not function without them.

In this special photo essay by Photo Editor Tim Baker, we celebrate these everyday heroes through images that capture their care, courage and commitment — and the countless ways they make a difference in our communities. We thank you. We celebrate you. We see you.

1 3 5

Photos by Tim Baker/Herald

1. At Glen Cove Hospital: Carla Joseph, RN, and Akeesha Sheriff, RN, confer in Endoscopy.

2 At work in Glen Cove Hospital's Brain Injury Unit with Nicole Caravella, RN, and Cindia Cisneros, RN

3. Lisa Pino, RN, and Hannah Russel, RN, with a newborn in Mercy Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

4. Lindsay Bodner, RN, and Kayla Lewis, RN, go about their shift in Surgery Oncology at Mercy Hospital.

5. Christopher Kelly, RN, and Torey Bender, RN, staff Outpatient Dialysis in NYU Langone –Long Island’s Emergency Department.

6. At Long Island Jewish Valley Stream: James Arxer, RN, and Tania Francois, RN, in the Emergency Department.

7. Wayne Lee RN, is a Transfer Nurse in Admission and Discharge at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

The team in Surgical Step-down at Mount Sinai South Nassau includes Anne Quinn, RN, Jimmy Hernandez, RN, and Lauren Cuevas, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager. 9

9. Portia Javillo, RN, and Pamela Piyavunno, RN, at work in Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Family Medicine Department.

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

JENNIFER ERDMAN PSINAKIS, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, PCCN

NYU Langone Hospital Long Island

I have been a nurse at NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island for close to 15 years on a Surgical Telemetry unit specializing in cardiothoracic surgery patients. It is the first unit I started on, and I am still working on that unit to this day! It is a very special unit staffed with very special people, some who have grown to be my closest friends. I am on many hospital councils and committees, and am a boardcertified holistic nurse.

I became a nurse out of a deeprooted desire to care for others and to form meaningful human connections. From an early age, I was drawn to roles that allowed me to support, comfort and uplift those around me, and nursing provided a natural path to turn that passion into a profession. To me, nursing is far more than clinical skill or technical knowledge — it is the privilege of being present for individuals during some of the most vulnerable and significant moments of their lives.

My greatest fulfillment comes from building trust with my patients, understanding their stories and providing care that honors not only their physical needs but also their emotional and personal experiences. Nursing means advocating, listening and showing compassion in a way that helps patients feel seen, heard and valued. It is both a responsibility and a profound honor to walk alongside patients and their families, offering support, dignity and genuine human connections when it matters most.

ADRIENNE KINCH BSN, RN, CPAN, PGMT-BC

NYU Langone Hospital Long Island

My career as a nurse has been deeply rewarding and a lifelong journey of learning. Nursing has been my profession for almost 48 years, and I cherish every experience — whether happy or sad.

As a teenager, I lost my grandfather to a heart attack, and I felt helpless. I began volunteering at a hospital, where I realized it was my life’s calling. It became very important to me to pursue a career that would allow me to make a difference in people’s lives and give me the opportunity to help others. Nursing was the perfect ﬁt.

I have had the privilege of working at NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island for 36 years in the PACU. Prior to that, I spent 10 years as an ICU nurse and two years on a medical-surgical ﬂoor. I feel incredibly fortunate to have built such a fulﬁlling career at NYU Langone - Long Island and to have gained a second work family.

Helping new nurses grow and succeed is truly my passion. Teamwork and the ability to contribute to improving the quality of patient care have motivated me throughout the years. I credit my peers, my patients, and the support of leadership for helping me grow both professionally and personally.

Nursing has given me a profound sense of purpose and a lasting passion that has brought meaning to my life. If I can give hope to someone who is sick and see it in their eyes, then I am fulﬁlled. Sharing human experiences and showing kindness through serving others has made me a better person and helped me overcome some of my own life’s heartaches through the strength of those around me.

AMARPREET KAUR, RN Northwell

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

Amarpreet Kaur began her nursing career at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital last March, working on the hospital’s Medical-Surgical unit with a focus on older adult care.

Her path to nursing was shaped by early experiences after immigrating to the United States from India in 2008. As a child, she often assisted her father during medical appointments, translating and observing the role communication plays in patient care.

“It was their dream of {my brother and me] basically getting our degrees in the medical ﬁeld, and then coming back and giving back to the community,” Kaur says. “That's something that we always do here and there. When we go back, we set up a camp back home. Even if it is just checking their ﬁnger sticks for blood sugar levels or their blood pressure in the community, it's so fascinating to them. That's not something that people often do there.”

Kaur pursued a degree in biology before completing her nursing education at LIU Brooklyn in 2024.

Kaur shares she was drawn to nursing to combine compassion, advocacy and clinical knowledge while supporting patients during vulnerable moments. Since starting at the hospital, she has completed a nurse residency program and taken on additional responsibilities, including serving as a diabetes resource on her unit. She has also contributed to initiatives focused on improving care for older adults and reducing complications such as falls and delirium.

Looking ahead, Kaur plans to pursue certiﬁcation in gerontology and begin graduate studies in informatics, with the goal of enhancing patient care through both clinical practice and technology.

- As told to Angelina Zingariello

ELIZABETH MCGRATH, RN Northwell

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

Elizabeth McGrath has worked in nursing since 2010, building her career in high-acuity settings before transitioning to Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital to serve her local community.

A Franklin Square resident, she spent more than a decade working in Emergency and Intensive Care units in the Bronx before joining the Valley Stream hospital in 2022 as an Emergency Department nurse.

“I've always wanted to be a nurse,” McGrath says. “I've always had a passion for helping people since a very young age. I think my faith in Catholicism played a lot in wanting to provide equitable care, especially for underprivileged populations.”

After two years in the Emergency Department, she stepped into her current role as an associate educator, where she supports the development of new and experienced nurses. Her responsibilities include onboarding staff, leading training programs and coordinating educational initiatives tailored to the needs of the department.

“I'm the ﬁrst nurse in my family on all sides,” McGrath says. “Actually, I am very happy to say my daughter wants to become an Emergency Department nurse, just like me. So, perhaps there will be a second nurse in the family one day.”

She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in nursing education through Jacksonville University and expects to graduate next year. McGrath relates tht teaching has been a long-standing goal, allowing her to share her experience while supporting the next generation of nurses. She remains closely connected to clinical work by assisting staff during critical situations and staying engaged in patient care environments.

- As told to Angelina Zingariello

Malverne School District earns national music education honor

Malverne’s long-standing tradition of excellence and its dedication to fostering a vibrant, creative learning culture.

vide a space where every child can find their voice and flourish through creative expression.”

emotional skills and increased student engagement. In Malverne, this tradition ensures these benefits are accessible to every child, from their first notes in kindergarten through their final high school performances.

The district applauds its dedicated music faculty, talented students, engaged parents and supportive board of education for sustaining this remarkable legacy of harmony and achievement.

— Noah Peretz

Courtesy Malverne UFSD

Malverne School District was selected as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation. 2026 marks the 13th time the district has received the honor.

Courtesy Malverne UFSD

Malverne School District was selected as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation. 2026 marks the 13th time the district has received the honor.

MALVERNE/WEST

— May 7, 2026

Crossroads Farm improves under Michael D’Angelo

were represented at the event, including Rare Treats Bakery, in Malverne; South Shore Craft Brewery, in Oceanside; and Renewal by Andersen, in Farmingdale. There was a live band, as well as arts and crafts stations for kids and families, and food trucks.

This year’s reopening was D’Angelo’s fourth as operations manager. He has taken a roundabout journey to the position, which illustrates the importance of giving back to the community.

“I used to run my own business, called D’Angelo Gardens,” he said. “I used to farm in Old Westbury and sell at the Long Beach farmer’s market. I always used to drive past here, and I grew up in the area, so I knew this farm as a kid. And once I saw that there was an opening to be operations manager for the farm, I couldn’t pass it up. So, in 2023, I applied, I got the job, and I’ve been here ever since.”

cultivating tractor, which helps us grow more space and keep weeds back. We have invested in the high tunnel, so that’s a 30-foot by 100-foot growing space. We just added chickens this year, so now we have 16 laying hens.”

A high tunnel is similar to a greenhouse, D’Angelo explained, except that it isn’t heated. But because it’s covered, it can be used to grow greens earlier in the season than normal.

I grew up in the area, so I knew this farm as a kid. And once I saw that there was an opening to be operations manager for the farm, I couldn’t pass it up.

MIchael D’angelo

D’Angelo has overseen improvements and additions to the farm’s facilities. “We’ve invested and gotten new equipment, so now we have a utility vehicle to travel around the farm,” he said. “We have a new

As has been the case before every grand reopening, D’Angelo and the staff had to prepare in the offseason. “The life cycle of a farm, especially here in the Northeast, is a life and death,” he said “In the spring, the farm comes alive, and in the wintertime everything kind of dies down.”

“We started planting seeds in February, and we just got chickens this year,” D’Angelo added. “The chickens were born the first week of February. So we’ve been taking care of the chickens this offseason.” This is the first year that the farm has had chickens.

In addition to its year offseason preparation, the staff has had to rejuvenate the farm over the years.

The Grossmann family sold it to Nassau County in 2008, and the Nassau Land Trust arranged to lease the farm from the county.

Crossroads farms began planting before the reopening because of its high tunnel and greenhouse.

“This is the 16th season that the land trust has been in control,” D’Angelo explained. “The Grossmanns farmed this land conventionally, meaning they used fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. The soil was very depleted, almost like the Dust Bowl.”

D’Angelo and the staff plan to increase the frequency of events at the farm. Event Coordinator Sara Santora has been planning activities since the offseason, and said she was excited about what the farm has to offer. “We enjoy giving community support,” she said. “We’re doing a Food Truck Rodeo this summer, and on weekends in

‘‘

‘‘ The branded content advertising with the Herald has proven to be extremely advantageous for me. Not only has it resonated with my current client base and sphere of inﬂuence… it has also brought new business, new design projects, and new real estate clients.‘‘

October, we’re having our Fall Festival with a pumpkin patch.”

Ross Gollub, founder of the restaurant Harvest House in Malverne, has become a close collaborator with D’Angelo, buying most of his produce from Crossroads. Harvest House opened last year, with the goal of “showcasing what New York is producing, what we’re growing in this region,” Gollub said. “It’s our responsibility to present it in a delicious, pretty unique manner, so our dishes generally tend to be described as such: nothing you’d find at an average restaurant.”

Noah Peretz/Herald

STEPPING OUT

By Nick Mongiovi

Long Island has been home for the Ducks for 26 seasons in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB), and who better to add to a successful organization than a former CY Young Award winner?

Trevor Bauer signed with the Ducks on April 2, after pitching the last ﬁve years in Japan and Mexico. Long Island went 72-54 in 2025, as it looks to build upon last year’s success with speed and dominant pitching.

“When we signed guys, we were looking for guys that wanted to win, wanted to be here and further their careers,” says third-year manager Lew Ford, the franchise’s all-time hits leader. “They’re going to play hard. I think the fans enjoy that and that’s the kind of baseball we want to play.”

Last year’s Ducks led the league in pitching, ﬁnished in second in both ﬁelding and hitting, and broke a team record for most stolen bases in a season with 239. Before last season, Ford emphasized speed, reiterating “The game is moving a lot towards speed.”

“We’re very happy with all these guys,” he says “They can still run, hit and play defense. We have a good mix of veterans and younger guys, too.”

Bauer is the name that’ll bring the reigning No. 1 pitching staff to the next level. He received the nod from Ford to be the team’s Opening Day starter on April 21 against the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars. The 10-year MLB veteran struck out eight but surrendered ﬁve hits, three walks and two runs in four innings of work in the 7-0 loss. Bauer, who followed his Ducks debut with a dominant no-hitter, makes his return to the United States to pitch on American soil for the ﬁrst time since 2021 with a “hate to lose” mentality.

“They’ve had a lot of good players here,” Bauer says, on why he chose the Ducks. “A lot of guys have come through here and then signed elsewhere, kind of elevated their careers. All the guys who have been here and have had a really good time here, so that’s part of it. They win. I don’t like losing.

create buzz with Bauer signing

Danielle Huebner

Inﬁelder Wilmer Difo brings MLB experience.

creation to be featured on his and the team’s social media and streaming outlets.

“We are excited to welcome Trevor to Long Island,” Ducks President/CBO Michael Pfaff says. “His talent and knowledge will be important additions to our ballclub, and we are happy to offer him this opportunity to showcase his talents to MLB clubs while giving fans unprecedented access to Ducks baseball. We felt that was a unique and interesting approach. He’s got very unique content, and his approach is overwhelmingly positive.”

Along with Bauer, the Ducks’ starting rotation features Island Park native Ryan Sandberg, who was the team’s most reliable and dominant starter, Nolan Clinton, Harrison Francis and Michael Dominguez. Sandberg pitched to a 3.82 ERA in 91.2 innings of work, striking out 73 batters, Familiarity returns in the bullpen for Long Island as Jacob Asa, Garrett Crowley, Tanner Jacobsen, Ryan Langford, Michael Reed and Ramon Santos all return.

“Most of these guys came halfway through the year; they had a lot of success here,” Ford adds. “Ramon Santos, being our closer, had under a one ERA, did a very good job for us.”

Dix Hills native Matt Hogan is the starting center ﬁelder.

Ben Folds & A Piano

Ben Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of his generation is joined by multitalented actress-singer-composer Lindsey Kraft. Known for pushing genre boundaries, Folds first rose to prominence with Ben Folds Five before launching a wide-ranging solo career that blends sharp lyricism, piano-driven melodies and orchestral ambition. His recent work reflects his deep engagement with orchestral music, including a live album featuring an olrchestral performance of his hits recorded just before concluding his eight-year tenure as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center — an appointment that marked a first for the role. Today, he continues to move fluidly between pop tours and performances with leading orchestras worldwide, while also developing new work for film, television and theater.

Friday, May 8, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

“Teams I’ve been on have been in the playoffs the last decade, except for 2019, when I was traded. “So I want the chance to be in the playoffs and play for something meaningful at the end of the year. Checks that box here. Great market, big in New York, with a huge baseball market. There are a lot of things that are important to me that go on here.”

meaningful at the end of the year. Checks that box are

Additionally, Bauer will be “Mic’d Up” for all games and practices for the purposes of content

He possesses “a lot of speed and defense,” Ford says. It’s a “full-circle moment” for Hogan, who grew up attending Ducks games.

“I remember I sat up in that box up there with my aunt and uncle,” Hogan says, reminiscing on his time as a kid coming to Ducks games. “So coming here and being able to enjoy the time here and have my family come to games. It’s my ﬁrst time playing on Long Island in about eight years. It’s humbling, it feels good. I’m excited to be here and really play with this team.”

Tickets can be purchased online at LIDucks.com, by calling (631) 940-TIXX, or in person at the Fairﬁeld Properties Ballpark box ofﬁce in Central Islip. All games will be streamed on HomeTeam Network (HTN) with a paid subscription.

Some promotions include ﬁreworks at all Saturday home games, sunglasses to the ﬁrst 1,500 fans May 17, and Bark in the Park with Ducks patriotic hats July 1.

here and being able to enjoy the time here and have my family come to with

Big band energy meets Jamaican soul. The unique 20-piece band blends the exuberant musical layers of the jazz Big Band era with Jamaican roots music. Their sound is powered by a passionate team of talented musicians, each bringing unique energy and expertise to create an unforgettable experience. Led by trumpeter and vocalist Kevin Batchelor, and featuring Jamaican music legend 87-year-young celebrated percussionist/vocalist Larry MacDonald on congas and vocals, and Jamaican master drummer Carl Wright, band creates and perform lush original compositions and arrangements of classic songs from the rich and culturally iconic Jamaican music of ska, mento, rock steady, reggae, and jazz from the 1950s, ’60s and ‘70s.

Friday, May 8, 8 p.m. $91, $42, $37. andmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

NYC Ska Orchestra

Courtesy

Courtesy L.I. Ducks

Quackerjack always gets Ducks fans hyped.

Courtesy L.I. Ducks Closer Ramon Santos was dominant in 2025.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

MAY

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages

“Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,” back at the museum by popular demand. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! It’s not easy being the Pigeon since you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also May 13-14

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

MAY 9

‘The Enchantment of Strings’

Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of chamber music as presents in the intimate and elegant Red Ballroom. Ensemble-in-residence Poetica Musica Quartet featuring Eric Wyrick, violin; Eugene Moye, cello; and guest artists Janey Choi, violin; and Michael Roth, viola, performs a captivating program including works by Ravel, Mendelssohn, and Dvorák

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 8 p.m.

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

Eisenhower Craft Fair

Check out the many craft vendors at Eisenhower Park.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 8

• When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. also May 10, weather permitting

• Contact: NassauCountyFairs. com

‘Inside Out’ Memory Orb Families are invited to Long Island Children’s Museum for a drop-in program themed around the Disney/Pixar film. In “Inside Out” memories are represented by glowing orbs MAY

The Wallflowers

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

‘Junk in the Trunk’ Tag Sale

St. Thomas welcomes all to its tag sale. Browse among all sorts of items.

• Where: St. Thomas the Apostle Chapel, 876 Hempstead Ave., West Hempstead

• When: 9 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 902 2128

MAY

17

Grace Lutheran School Open House

Meet the teachers and explore the classrooms at Grace Lutheran School.

• Where: Grace Lutheran School400 Hempstead Ave., Malverne

• When: Noon

• Contact: (516) 599 6557

Community Arts Day

Come celebrate the arts with students from across the West Hempstead community.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

The Wallflowers mark the 30th anniversary of their breakthrough album “Bringing Down the Horse” on their latest tour, with a special full-album performance at the Paramount, presenting the record in sequence from start to finish. Originally released in 1996, the album became a defining success of the decade, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and going quadruple platinum. It produced a string of major hits, including “6th Avenue Heartache,” “The Difference,” and the Grammy-winning “One Headlight,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the era’s most recognizable rock singles. Led by songwriter Jakob Dylan, the band draws on classic American rock influences such as The Band and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers — a legacy echoed in the tour’s additional tribute segment to Petty, including a full performance of the 1982 album Long After Dark. Over the years, Dylan has remained a consistent figure in rock music, collaborating widely and appearing in projects such as Echo in the Canyon alongside artists including Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Beck, Norah Jones and others. The Wallflowers also recently supported Eric Clapton on his 2025 U.S. tour, continuing their long-standing presence on major stages.

of various colors based on the emotions tied to the memories. Design and decorate your own memory orb to represent a special memory or feeling. Free with museum admission.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

MAY

Malverne BOE meets

The Malverne Board of Education holds its budget meeting and hearing.

• Where: Malverne Performing Arts Center, 80 Ocean Ave., Malverne

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: malverneschools.org

Roberto Fabbri

MAY 13

The Internationally acclaimed classical guitar virtuoso brings his signature blend of precision and expressive artistry to the Madison Theatre stage. A prolific performer and educator, Fabbri has built a global reputation that extends well beyond the concert hall. His more than 40 guitar

publications — translated into five languages, including Chinese — have reached an audience of over 300,000 readers worldwide, underscoring his influence on both aspiring musicians and seasoned players Fabbri is a frequent guest at leading international guitar festivals and has performed in many of the world’s most renowned concert venues, where he also conducts masterclasses. His recording career has further expanded his reach.

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

MAY

Malverne PTSA Board Interest Meeting

Join the Malverne High School Community. Work with a team of enthusiastic people who plan events, fundraise, and advocate for the Malverne High students throughout the school year.

• When: Malverne High School, Ocean Ave.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: mhsptsa4@gmail.com

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

MAY

16 Nature Connects

Old Westbury Gardens welcomes internationally acclaimed artist Sean Kenney and his Nature Connects exhibition. Explore 17 largerthan-life sculptures inspired by the wonders of the natural world—each built from over 300,000 LEGO® bricks. Vibrant and imaginative, these creations blend art, science, and nature, offering visitors of all ages a playful new way to experience the gardens. Opens May 16 and is on view through Sept. 7. Tickets required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: Ongoing

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

STEM Explorers: May Flowers

Flowers are happening at Long Island Children’s Museum. As the weather gets warmer, the world around us starts blooming! Join the Green Teens and learn about the importance of flowers in our natural world.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

• Where: West Hempstead Secondary School, 400 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead

• Time: Noon -3 p.m.

Long Island Choral Society Spring Concert

The Long Island Choral Society performs a concert of varied delights, including Franz Schubert’s Mass No.2 in G, selections by Haydn, Brahms, Samuel Barber and Randall Thompson, plus some traditional selections celebrating America at 250. Under the baton of Music Director Michael C. Haigler, ensemble is joined by a chamber orchestra and featured soloists Georgia Rehbock, soprano; Christopher Judge, tenor, and Ian Joyal, baritone. Tickets are available at the door. $20 adult, $10, youth.

• Where: Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City

• Time: 4 p.m.

• Contact: lics.org or (516) 652-6878

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

Nassau Veterans Service Agency holds benefits info session

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

The Nassau Veterans Service Agency partnered with Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages to present a benefits and information seminar at Lakeview Public Library on April 29.

“Nassau County has one of the largest veteran populations of any community in the United States, and we have a responsibility as leaders to ensure that these patriots have everything they need to thrive after serving in our nation’s armed forces,” Legislator Solages said.

Veterans Counselor Kevin Canty walked Solages and attending veterans through a presentation detailing the potential disability benefits veterans can receive through the Veterans Health Administration and Veterans Benefit Administration.

Canty explained the difference between direct service connection, secondary service connection, aggravated service connection, and presumptive service connection. Primary is an injury sustained while serving, such as “if I’m a paratrooper and do a night jump, and when I do my parachute landing fall, I crush my knee and need reconstructive surgery,” Canty said.

Secondary is an injury sustained as a result of service, but not directly in the line of duty. Canty used the same example of the paratrooper, but instead of a direct knee injury, “say I’ve been favor-

ing my left knee for the last 20 years and I need surgery on the right, it would be healthy if not for my time in the service,” Canty said.

Aggravated service connection refers to a pre-existing condition that is worsened or exasperated by military service, such as asthma. Presumptive refers to conditions that can be connected to the time and place a veteran served, such as Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam. Canty also spoke about spousal bene-

fits postmortem. “If a vet dies and one of his contributing factors of death is something he or she is service connected for, or would have been service connected for, we can get survivor’s benefits for the wife,” he said. He recommended making sure hypertension is one of the causes of death on the certificate, so the benefits can be secured for the veteran’s family.

Canty and fellow veterans counselor Larry Mansfield expressed his gratitude

for the work they do and how they assist veterans in getting the medical help they deserve.

“Old vets sometimes say, ‘if it’s too good to be true, then it ain’t,’ part of my job is to convince them that it is true,” Mansfield said.

“I know some of my vets’ voices and have never met them face-to-face,” Canty said. “We do what we can to help everyone, even the people that can’t come into the office.”

Office of County Legislator Carrie Solages Leg. Carrie Solages (left) greeting Veterans Counselor Larry Mansfield.

Office of County Legislator Carrie Solages Leg. Carrie Solages (left), Veterans Counselors Larry Mansfield and Kevin Canty.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME

EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2005-C, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, AGAINST

KIM EVANS A/K/A

KIMBERLY Y. EVANS

A/K/A KIM Y. EVANS, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on March 2, 2026.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 1024 Mahopac Road, West Hempstead, NY 11552.

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

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Lakeview, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0035, Block 00460-00 and Lot 00849.

Approximate amount of judgment $490,256.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #620249/2023.

Monica Corrine Moran, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 159773

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMORGAN CHASE

BANK, NATIONAL

ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST THE ESTATE OF CONSTANCE

JOHNSON A/K/A CONSTANCE T. JOHNSON; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 4, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee

will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 3, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 1017 Hampton Drive, West Hempstead, NY 11552. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 35 Block: 417 Lot: 210 & 212. Approximate amount of judgment $289,817.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602286/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, NY 14614 CHNY1628 89722 159853

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ARCHITECTURAL & SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL & SITE PLAN REVIEW of the Inc. Village of Malverne will hold a PUBLIC HEARING at the Malverne Village Hall, 99 Church Street, Malverne, New York 11565 on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 7:30 pm to hear the following cases: Purchase Associates 349 Hempstead Ave.; Business District Sign Permit Application #2026-0193 & #2026-0194

Proposes to install two (2) non-illuminated signs: 144” wide x 22.5” high PVC sign front facing on Hempstead Avenue and 144” wide x 22.5” high PVC sign side facing on Nassau Avenue for tenant “Prime Cuts Barber Shop”. 324-328 Hempstead Ave Realty Corp 324A Hempstead Ave.; Business District Sign/Awning Permit Application #2026-0244 & #2026-0245

Proposes to install 95” x 36” internally illuminated wall sign at front on Hempstead Avenue and recover existing 5’ x 3’ awning frame with new fabric

at rear parking lot. Malverne Properties, LLC

61 Church St.; Business District Building Permit

Application #2024-0115

Proposes to demolish existing one story structure and construct 11,118 total sq. ft. three-story 12-unit multi family dwelling over basement. All interested parties should appear at the above time and place. The Architectural & Site Plan Review Board Meeting will be preceded by a work session of the Board of Trustees. BY ORDER OF THE MALVERNE BOARD OF TRUSTEES INC. VILLAGE OF MALVERNE

Jill Valli, Village Clerk Dated: April 30, 2026 160025

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE SERVICES

The West Hempstead Union Free School District is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for the selection of qualified proposers to provide before and after school child care services. You are invited to submit proposals in accordance with this RFP. Proposals will be received until 11:00 a.m. on May 14, 2026, by Brian Phillips, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Operations at the District’s Central Offices, located at 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, NY 11552. Proposal forms may be obtained at the aforementioned office or from the district’s website at www.whufsd.com. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any proposal or to accept part of any proposal.

West Hempstead Union Free School District Board of Education 516-390-3100 160024

the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 12th day of May 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Chapter 202 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE

“REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” at the following location(s):

FRANKLIN SQUARE

Section 202-7

HOFFMAN STREET (TH 120/26) West SideTWO HOUR PARKING 8 AM to 8 PM EXCEPT SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS and HOLIDAYSstarting at the south curbline of Sobo Avenue, south for a distance of 249 feet.

OCEANSIDE Section 202-13

LAWSON BOULEVARD (TH 84/26) East SideTWO HOUR PARKING 8 AM to 6 PM - starting at a point 372 feet south of the south curbline of Concord Avenue, south for a distance of 96 feet.

NASSAU PARKWAY (TH 124/26) South SideNO PARKING 7 AM to 1 AM MONDAYS -

SUNDAYS EXCEPT WITH PERMIT - starting at a point 28 feet east of the east curbline of Southard Avenue, east for a distance of 82 feet.

NASSAU PARKWAY (TH 124/26) South SideTWO HOUR PARKING BETWEEN SIGNSstarting at a point 110 feet east of the east curbline of Southard Avenue, east for a distance of 27 feet. ALSO, to REPEAL from Chapter 202 “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” from the following location(s):

FRANKLIN SQUARE

Section 202-7

HOFFMAN STREET (TH 168/90) West Side -

TWO HOUR PARKING 8 AM to 8 PM EXCEPT SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS and HOLIDAYSstarting at a point 164 feet south of the south curbline of Sobo Avenue, south to the north curbline of Gabriel Avenue.

(Adopted 8/21/90) OCEANSIDE

Section 202-13

Stamp Out Hunger back 5/9

Residents across Long Island are being asked to take part in the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive on May 9 by leaving donations at their homes for pickup.

Island Harvest Food Bank and the National Association of Letter Carriers are partnering for the nationwide one-day effort.

Community members can leave nonperishable food items and personal care products in a bag by their mailboxes, where letter carriers will collect them during regular delivery. All donations collected on Long Island will support Island Harvest’s network of community-based food pantries and feeding programs.

The need remains significant, according to Randi Shubin Dresner, president and chief executive of Island Harvest Food Bank, which distributed a record 21 million pounds of food across Nassau and Suffolk counties last year.

“Hunger and food insecurity impact about a quarter of a million Long Islanders, including children, families, older adults, and veterans — and virtually every ZIP code is affected,” Shubin Dresner said in a news release.

Items needed include canned goods, cereal, pasta, rice, boxed juices and shelf-stable milk. Prepared food and items in glass containers are not accepted. Personal care products such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant and disposable diapers are also accepted.

Tom Siesto, executive vice president of NALC Branch 6000, said that letter carriers see the effects of food insecurity every day.

“Our members see firsthand the impact of food insecurity on Long Island during their daily routes,” Siesto said in the release.Stamp Out Hunger is held annually on the second Saturday in May, and has col-

Long Island residents can help by leaving food donations outside their house for the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive on May 9.

lected more than 2 billion pounds of food nationwide since it began in 1993.

Island Harvest aims to collect more than 500,000 pounds this year.

This year’s collection campaign on Long Island is supported by presenting sponsor National Grid, lead sponsor JPMorgan Chase, and IPRO Healthcare, along with nearly 40 additional corporations.

Island Harvest Food Bank is a leading human-services organization whose mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island. It has organized innovative programs and services aimed at enhancing hunger awareness, short-term case management, nutrition education, outreach and advocacy initiatives, its Healthy Harvest Farm, a Workforce Skills Development Institute, and efficient food collection and distribution.

-Jeffrey Bessen

Public Notices

148/23) South SideTWO HOUR PARKING BETWEEN SIGNSstarting at a point 28 feet east of the east curbline of Southard Avenue, east for a distance of 110 feet.

(Adopted 5/23/23)

WEST HEMPSTEAD

Section 202-20

WALKER PLACE (TH 513/15) North SideNO PARKING SATURDAYS - starting at a point 50 feet east of the east curbline of Hempstead Avenue, east for a distance of 80 feet.

Town Clerk 160014

that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in

LAWSON BOULEVARD (TH 403/16) East SideTWO HOUR PARKING 8 AM to 6 PM - starting at a point 346 feet south of the south curbline of Concord Avenue, south for a distance of 125 feet.

(Adopted 6/6/17)

NASSAU PARKWAY (TH

(Adopted 5/24/16) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: April 28, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, vs. ALICIA NICKENS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF CHAPMAN COOPER, JR. A/K/A CHATMAN COOPER, BENEFICIARY UNDER THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ETHELEEN RUSS A/K/A ETHELEEN COOPER RUSS, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report, Appoint Successor Referee for Sale, and Judgement of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 5, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1067 Tyler Road, West Hempstead, NY 11552. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 35, Block 246 and Lots 794, 795, 796, 875. Approximate amount of judgment is $610,048.04 plus

interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002027/2015. Leslie Lowenstein, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 160034

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of BiminiBakes Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on May 1st 2026 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 765 Janos Lane, West Hempstead, NY 11552. Purpose: any lawful act 160041

Courtesy Don Miller

LYNBROOK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

Building Maintenance Assistant and Porter needed for Management Co. in Long Beach Experience Preferred Email: humanresoures5771 @gmail.com or Call: (212) 873-7575

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

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

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000

HomesHERALD

Stunning to Behold

THow early do I get the interior designer involved?

Q. I’ve been interviewing architects and want your opinion on the issue of interior design. I have no sense of space, color or furniture. I’m getting mixed ideas from the architects about having an interior designer involved at the beginning, and I’m wondering what to do. Should I have the interior designer do the space plan first, and then hire the architect, or should I get the interior designer involved more toward the middle, before plans are done?

A. This is a touchy subject that often leads to frustration, mostly because the tasks of each are not always understood. There’s an old saying, “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” An interior designer on my projects has always been requested to work after the building is designed, from the beginning to the end. The reasons for this are the differences in our knowledge of laws, engineering qualifications and responsibilities.

An interior designer doesn’t have a license, qualification or, generally, the education to perform the integrated services of an architect or an engineer. The reason that’s a frustrating answer is that I like working with interior designers personally, when the enhancement of the building’s finishes come into play, after the building has met the requirements of being able to stand, shed light to spaces, allow for all the safety requirements and myriad codes that must be followed. Unfortunately, clients often see that as being egotistical, overly sensitive or domineering, and that’s due to the lack of education as to what each person’s role is in construction. It’s no different than when a carpenter tells a homeowner that the structure could have been thinner and would have saved the owner money. The carpenter may not understand that the structure has to be sized for insulation thickness to meet energy codes before voicing their perspective. I’ve had multiple experiences that turned out very well because it was understood, from the project beginning, that the architect wasn’t there just to draw what they were told to draw. At times, issues needed to be discussed, and changes were necessary to accommodate the material thickness.

For example, stairways have a minimum width, and you can’t arbitrarily add a thick stone surface to the side walls that would reduce the clear width. It might be beautiful, but imagine having the inspection fail for safety reasons. In that instance, the plans could have been discussed or the material selection could have been revised.

I once had an interior designer repeatedly changing the shape of spaces, requiring the arbitrary removal of columns. A building won’t stand without columns, and moving them is like pulling one card out of a house of cards, literally and figuratively. A great design starts with great communication and a clear understanding of each person’s responsibilities and boundaries, both legal and by the project team as a whole. As a team, you will be successful if you and every team member understand this. Good luck!

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.

AFFORDABLE

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Wanted To Buy Costume Jewelry Wanted Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver. $$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792 Long Island / Will Travel

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

Cleaning Services

WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC. Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Fences

FENCES, RAILINGS, AWNINGS. All types (Gates) pvc, Iron, wood, chainlink, cable, glass. Retractable aluminum polycarbonate awnings, carports, roof awnings, Licensed/Insured. Inwood. 516-371-6444. Text/516-852-4075. AcedesignsNy.com AceDesignsNy@gmail.com

Home Improvement

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159

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PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.

PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

Home Improvement

SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473

Miscellaneous

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Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Services

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?

STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Tree Services

T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE *TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com

Satellite/TV Equipment

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172

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AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Autos For Sale

HONDA 2006 PILOT Black, 67,000 Miles, Original Owner, Great Condition, No Accidents $5900 516 410-6258

Autos Wanted

AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199.

Autos Wanted

$ CARS FOR CASH $ No keys, no title, no problem. Running & Non-Running. We go anywhere. Same day Service. We pay top dollar. 631-445-1848

I have more than enough words for a memoir

Recently I entered into an agreement with noted editor Peter Ginna to put my 140,000-word memoir manuscript into final form to be presented to publishers. That will probably result in the reduction of at least 30,000 words and some reformatting. The final product, though, will be mine.

This project began five years ago. After I retired from Congress in January 2021, I started to assemble my thoughts, news stories, photos and memorabilia from 28 years in office in an attempt to make some sense of, and put in some perspective, my experiences. The more I assembled, the more I realized how long and unlikely the journey had been — and how fortunate I had been.

Particularly helpful to me in collating so much of the memories and information was Anne Rosenfeld, who worked in my district office, in Massapequa Park, for all of those years, including the last 20 as district director. Melissa Zimmerman was one of the Nassau County Police Department

detectives on my congressional security detail. Having retired shortly before I did, she agreed to be my post-congressional security director. As she learned what I was doing and heard my discussions about my experiences, she urged me to put it all into a memoir. And she didn’t let up until I started the process.

As I began to write, I realized that the story would have to begin where it all began, on the bluecollar sidewalks of Sunnyside, Queens, and then St. Albans.

if not a ragsto-riches tale, my life has certainly been an improbable journey.

My grandparents were Irish immigrants. My father was a World War II veteran and an Army Reserve major who served for three decades in the New York City Police Department, rising to the rank of lieutenant as commanding officer for physical training and head of the department’s first Ceremonial Unit, which he formed. My mother, a product of the Depression, had to turn down a college scholarship and take a job instead.

My younger brother, Kevin, and I attended St. Teresa’s grammar school, in Woodside, where there were 70-plus kids in a classroom, with no concern for feelings or sensitivity. Tuition was 25 cents a week. After that it was Brooklyn Prep and then St. Francis College, while

TI worked full-time at the Railway Express freight yards on Manhattan’s West Side as a junior and senior. After that I was unexpectedly accepted by Notre Dame Law School, where I made friendships that would last a lifetime. At neighboring St. Mary’s College I met Rosemary, who has been putting up with me for a lifetime.

All of this somehow led to experiences with an eclectic mix of people and events that made for an interesting, never boring, life, as I navigated the minefields of New York and Washington politics and government. I dealt with tragedies such as Sept. 11 and its lasting aftermath, which included fighting for health care benefits for its survivors and first responders. I was one of only two members of Congress in history to vote against the impeachment of two presidents. I faced challenges as chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, holding controversial hearings into Islamic radicalization and ensuring that New York and Long Island received the funding necessary to defend against future terrorist attacks.

Over the years in New York, Washington and overseas, there were dealings with Presidents Clinton, Bush,

Obama, Trump and Biden; British Prime Minister Blair and Irish P.M. Ahern; Israeli leaders Rabin, Peres and Netanyahu; and meeting foreign leaders and dignitaries such as Russia’s Yeltsin, Poland’s Walesa and Britain’s Queen Elizabeth. There were New York leaders, characters and personalities including Cardinal John O’Connor, Al D’Amato, Ed Koch, Rudy Giuliani and Roy Cohn. There was also the almost surreal experience of being the grandson of Irish immigrants and having a great uncle who was in the IRA and imprisoned during the Irish War of Independence in the 1920s — and working with Clinton, Blair, Ahern and Irish Republican leader Gerry Adams to bring about the historic 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended the centuries-old, bloody struggle between the British government and the people of Ireland.

My life has not been a rags-to-riches tale, but it has certainly been an improbable journey, beyond what I ever could have dreamed of or imagined. It has indeed been what my book title describes, “The Road to God Knows Where — From the Blue Collar Sidewalks of Queens to the Halls of Congress.”

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

We all need friends, and NATO is our best one

he older you get, the more you need to have some friends. While we should always be lucky to have a family that cares for us in good times and bad, we still have to have friends. A little research showed me that there are more songs about the value of friends, and the need for them, than about independence or going it alone. I’m sure many readers are familiar with the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends.” Or Dionne Warwick’s “That’s What Friends Are For,” or Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend,” Or Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me.” I could list another dozen songs that capture the importance of having a friend. Which brings us to the subject of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Somehow, President Trump has advanced the distorted idea that America can go it alone in the world without the help of our overseas allies. Long before NATO came into existence in 1949, our European friends were fighting with us in World War II, losing thou-

sands of young men to keep democracy alive.

When NATO was founded, its membership comprised Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States. It now includes Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Turkey. It is a powerful union of allies who all have economic and strategic relationships with the United States.

There is no way the United States could go it alone with these allies.

has always stood by us since then. Trump alleges that Iran was almost ready to attack the United States and Israel, but it did not launch an attack on our country. Being a “threat” to a NATO ally isn’t the same as attacking it. On 9/11, the NATO countries immediately declared their support for the United States and provided numerous forms of assistance, both technical and economic.

territory.) Russia could mount an attack on our country in minutes if it ever served their purposes.

What gets lost in the debate about NATO’s obligations to intervene in the war with Iran is that NATO was never consulted before the war began, and no member country was attacked by Iran. Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty says that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all members, which is not what happened in the war with Iran.

The first time the NATO charter was invoked was when America was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001. The alliance

To this day, NATO members continue to offer us strategic advice about actions around the world that may be a threat to America. They provide us with warnings about weather patterns and environmental events that are a threat to our region of the planet. And most of all, they buy billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment and other products that make our manufacturers healthy and wealthy.

Whether the president admits it or not, our two biggest enemies are China and Russia. In the case of Russia, it is worth noting that it is less than 60 miles from Alaska. (And actually, Big Diomede Island, in Russian territory, is just 2½ miles from Little Diomede Island, in U.S.

As for China, even with some severe economic problems, it is capable of causing major upheaval for the U.S. if it chooses. Should it invade Taiwan, America would lose its major supplier of the semiconductor chips that companies like Nvidia and Apple use for advanced computing. Other chips are used in automobiles and a wide variety of products, and we can’t afford to lose that supply.

There is no way that the United States could go it alone without its NATO allies. We can’t protect our country from the world’s two worst predators without those allies on our side. Breaking up that alliance would be strategic and economic suicide. Talk is cheap, so the president has every right to pick occasional spats with NATO, but he can’t afford to abandon it. To do so would create chaos for generations to come.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.

Small Business Week, with eyes wide open

Small Business Week, which runs from May 3 to 9, will bring the usual round of proclamations, ribbon-cuttings and feel-good photo ops. Local entrepreneurs deserve every one of them. They also deserve the truth: The Main Streets of Long Island are under siege, and a week of celebration cannot paper over what the rest of the year has made painfully clear.

Walk down Park Avenue, in Long Beach, or Merrick Avenue, or any commercial corridor from Lynbrook to Glen Cove, and the strain is visible. For Lease signs have not come down in months. Restaurants have cut hours because they can’t find or afford the staff to stay open. Family-owned shops that survived the pandemic now wonder whether they will survive the aftermath. The business owners who anchor our downtowns aren’t asking for sympathy. They are asking, quietly and increasingly, whether the math still works.

The pressures are no secret. Rents for Long Island commercial space have climbed steadily. Costs have skyrocketed, outpacing what owners can charge without losing customers. Wages have risen, as they should, but for thin-margin businesses, every raise is a calculation about how many shifts can be staffed next month.

The numbers tell a more complicated story than the celebratory ones we usually hear. In Nassau County, the U.S. Small Business Administration backed more than $207 million in loans last year, supporting roughly 500 businesses and helping create or sustain 2,850 jobs. That is real and meaningful. But SBA lending is also a barometer of need. A community in which hundreds of businesses require government-backed credit just to keep their doors open is not a community where small business is thriving on its own. It is a community where small business is fighting to hold ground.

Matt Coleman, the SBA’s regional administrator, has said that anyone who wants to understand the local economy needs to look past the financial markets and pay attention to those small businesses, embedded in our communities. He’s right. And what those businesses are telling us, if we listen honestly, is that the ground beneath them is shifting faster than they can adapt.

Federal tax relief on tips and overtime will help some workers. Modest tax reductions for small-business owners will help some operators. Neither will reverse the structural forces reshaping retail, hospitality and local service. The playing field is not level, and pretending otherwise does our merchants no favors.

None of those things show up on a balance sheet. All of them disappear when the storefront goes dark.

The Herald takes pride in standing alongside local businesses every day of the year. Our reporters tell their stories — the grand openings, the second-generation handoffs, the milestone anniversaries, the moments when local owners step up to feed first responders during a storm. Our advertising and marketing teams work shoulder to shoulder with owners to help them reach customers and grow their brand across print, digital and social channels. We do this because we believe local journalism and local commerce rise and fall together.

Honesty about the challenges is not pessimism. It is the precondition for a serious response. Policymakers should be looking hard at commercial rent pressures, at the unequal tax treatment that favors online sellers, at workforce housing that should allow people to actually live near where they work. Residents have a role, too — a more direct one. Every dollar spent locally is a dollar that stays here, resulting in sponsors for Little League teams, donors for nonprofit events, tenants for local storefronts, and more.

So this week, before clicking “buy now” online, walk into the shop down the block. Order takeout from the family-run restaurant in Island Park. Book the local landscaper from Malverne. Tip generously. The Main Streets of Long Island are not guaranteed. They are chosen, one transaction at a time, by the people who live here — and that choice has never mattered more. P.M. Peres and leaders Yeltsin, Queen leaders, including D’Amato, Cohn. surreal of great imprisIndepenwith Republiabout Agreecenturies-old, British govIreland. rags-to-riches I ever imagined. It title Knows SideConcongressman, and

Energy bills and insurance premiums keep grinding higher. And looming over all of it is the e-commerce machine — Amazon, Temu, Shein and a growing list of online giants whose business model depends on undercutting the shop down the block, capturing the sale, and sending the profit somewhere far from Long Island.

What small businesses can offer is what e-commerce cannot: presence, accountability and a stake in the community. The pizzeria in East Rockaway that sponsors the Little League team.

The diner in Seaford that hosts the volunteer fire department’s monthly breakfast. The florist in Oyster Bay that decorates the village gazebo for the holidays.

opinions

Influencers, from Joe Schmoe to the influencer in chief

where are all the government’s best and brightest?

In the current administration, there are fewer models for academic achievement, moral rectitude and ethical behavior. The swamp is real, and it’s drowning the smart and dedicated people who go to Washington to serve the country.

Many of our best federal officials have been muted or sidelined by the Elon MuskDonald Trump one-two punch.

The president has appointed a succession of officials who are unprepared for their demanding jobs. He has trolled the bottom for people whose only standard is loyalty to the regime. As they sink and flunk out, as scandal after scandal unfolds, as their inexperience and absurd behavior come to light, they leave and are replaced by other sycophants.

As education standards sink, we witness the rise of “influencers,” selfappointed experts who have co-opted the attention and expendable income of millions of people old enough to use a phone. We are ceding critical questions about our health and well-being to self-

promoters who may have no real expertise and even less education. What many of them do have is a social media presence and the marketing know-how to garner thousands — even millions — of followers.

This isn’t a new problem, but it’s getting worse.

One example: In February, The New York Times published a story titled, “Do Energy Drinks Offer Benefits Beyond Caffeine?”

sThe takeaway was that most of the boost in these drinks comes from oldfashioned caffeine, not the add-on vitamins or extracts or purified water. Even though many drinks are marketed by health influencers as enhancing focus or endurance, the evidence, the article said, is inconsistent. In addition, the high caffeine levels in these jazzed-up drinks are concerning for those with a variety of health issues.

and because they hold sway with millions of followers whose only source of scientific information and medical advice is social media.

ocial media offer an uninformed public a circular firing squad of ignorance.

They are influencers, too, because their audience often doesn’t read or listen critically to what they are peddling. The social media audience isn’t researching the claims made on Instagram, for example, because many don’t know how to do research. And it’s so easy to just click and buy and think your pimples will disappear with a new product. We need a savvier buying public, and that comes with old-fashioned, top-tier education backed by quality teachers who are paid generously for the immense responsibility they carry — to educate our young.

pelted with stones by members of the Red Guards. Allegiance to Mao was all.

I think of this as our best-trained military leaders are fired by Trump, as longtime officials in the FBI and CIA are replaced by flunkies, as people like Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi spin through the revolving door of our dysfunctional government.

A true leader seeks to elevate the best and brightest, without a loyalty test as the filter.

The concept of influencers has roots dating back to the early 1900s. It began with celebrities endorsing products. Remember the Marlboro Man who smoked his way to fame? And all the dead lung cancer victims who followed his lead?

What you get from some of these aggressively marketed drinks is an expensive thirst-quencher with a ton of caffeine.

This is just one example of how we have surrendered our power to people who may have no scientific background at all when it comes to herbs or lotions or foods or exercise regimens. They are “influencers” because they say they are,

Framework by Tim Baker

The problem starts at the top, with an elected influencer in chief and his unqualified appointees, and it continues with an increasingly uninformed public whose only information comes from social media, a circular firing squad of ignorance.

In China, during the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, intellectuals in every discipline were banished to the countryside. Illustrious scientists and writers were made to sit in public squares wearing dunce caps while being

I don’t understand the influence of influencers, the promotion of knownothings whom we empower to tell us how to live. I do know that to survive as a viable society, we must educate a new generation of critical thinkers.

It starts with our kids and grandkids, who must learn the difference between scientific-based information and random opinion offered up by charismatic but ignorant actors, even when they are handsome and riding a black stallion. Even when they live in the White House.

Your Safety is Our #1 Concern—

And the Experts Agree

At Mount Sinai South Nassau, patient safety isn’t just a priority— it’s a standard, one we work on every day. And the experts agree.

We’ve earned national recognition for patient safety, including an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and the Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award.

That means better outcomes for our patients with lower risk of infections or hospital acquired conditions.

When it comes to your health, nothing matters more than knowing you’re in a place where patient safety matters most.

Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau