Massapequa Herald 03_11_2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

Also serving Babylon, Bay Shore, Copiague, Deer Park, Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, West Babylon, West Islip and Wyandanch

____________

MAssApequA ___________

HERALD pOsT

Local Moving and Pa

cking Services

Also serving Farmingdale, Massapequa, Massapequa Park and Plainedge

LI’s American Idol contestant

Page 5

Page 10

VOL. 71 NO. 9

MARCH 11 - 17, 2$

Seaford, New York

516-591-3338 mymove@asupermov e.com www.asupermove.c om

$1.00

1339907

Time to check smoke alarm batteries

Chamber honors Volunteer Firefighters of the Year By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent

Paul Grassini/Herald

County Champions!

Fire-Medic Stephanie Seltzer and Firefighter John Gennardo of the North Massapequa Fire Department, along with Massapequa Fire Department Chaplain and ex-Captain Ben Diventi, were recognized as Volunteer Firefighters of the Year by the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce. The event was held at the North Massapequa firehouse on Thursday, Feb. 26. Robin Hepworth, president of the Chamber of Commerce of the Massapequas, opened the ceremony by highlighting the

courage and selflessness of the honorees. She thanked Commissioner James Meraldo, Chief Joe Ferrante, and the North Massapequa Fire Department for hosting the event, as well as Investment Insight Wealth Management for sponsoring the luncheon for the second consecutive year and Sal’s Place for catering. Massapequa Fire Department Commissioner Michael Gange introduced Diventi, who began as a volunteer with the Elmont Fire Department in 1973 and joined Massapequa in 2003. As chaplain, he has guided the CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Plainedge High School’s girls’ basketball team captured the Nassau Class A championship last Friday night, beating Floral Park, 48-28, at Farmingdale State College. Story, more photos, page 8.

Amityville extends superintendent’s contract Two-year deal approved by board in 4-2 vote, amid criticism By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Amityville Board of Education voted 4-2 March 4 to extend the contract of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert for two years, approving salary increases that will bring her pay to $251,125 in the first year and $257,430 in the second. The decision came through a walk-on motion — meaning it was added to the agenda during the meeting — and amounts to a raise of about $11,000 over the life of the contract. Trustees Lisa Johnson, Leslie Kretz, Chris Nehring and Carol Seehof voted in favor of the extension, while trustees Juan Leon and Megan Messmann voted against it.

Talbert was hired by the district in July 2023, replacing former superintendent Edward Fale. She previously served in the Wyandanch School District, which at the time faced scrutiny over student performance and testing practices. She said at the time that her vision for Amityville schools is to “bring the past, present and future together, and use the successes of today to empower us for the challenges of tomorrow.” The decision to extend her contract drew both criticism and support from speakers at the meeting. Board President Lisa Johnson said Talbert was the right person for the job. “Dr. Talbert is the right choice to lead AmiCONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Mike Polansky/Herald

Chamber Vice President Sal Polito, Chamber President Robin Hepworth and Chamber Vice President Greg Massimi, right, congratulate Massapequa Ex-Chief Ben Diventi.

LI resident recognized by NY Transco with innovation award Honored for developing Propel New York energy app to keep residents informed on project By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

MaryKate Guilfoyle of Babylon was presented with the Innovator of the Year Award by New York Transco, operators and developers of bulk electric transmission facilities. She was recognized for her work in developing an app that will allow Long Islanders to have up-to-date information on the progress of Propel New York, a 60-mile underground electric transmission project through Long Island. The project will also include the Bronx, Queens and Westchester counties, Transco is co-developing the project with the New Power Authority, which will help improve reliability and resilience of the electric grid. Guilfoyle, the company’s media and communications specialist, grew up in upstate New York and went to college at Hofstra University. She made her home in Babylon six years ago. She is part of the company whose mission it is “to make sure the lights stay on,” she said. The project is currently advancing through federal, state and local permitting processes, and construction is expected to

begin this year. “What we are excited for as we move closer to construction this year is that we will be able to send out push notifications through the app to those who opt in to get information,” she said. “This is a great way to stay informed about where will be working and how the project is going.” On receiving the award, Guilfoyle said she is proud to have worked alongside a top-tier team to turn the app from a concept into a reality. “In today’s digital age, having accurate, easily accessible information at your fingertips is essential, and that was one of the driving forces behind developing the Propel NY Energy app. I encourage everyone to download it.” When she is not developing apps or coming up with other technical advances, Guilfoyle is busy making wedding plans. She is to be married in May. The app is free and will give updates and notifications on construction alerts. It brings project information directly to users and is available for download via the Apple App Store and Google Play. For more information on the work being done on Long Island, visit Propel NY Energy.

New York Transco President Victor Mullin presented the company’s 2025 Innovator of the Year Award to Manager of Media, Communications and Events Marykate Guilfoyle for leading the development of the Propel NY Energy mobile app.

1336653

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

CONTINUED FROM COVER

Massapequa Junior Firefighter Program since 2008. Sixty-six participants from the program have gone on to become active firefighters. “He is the best recruiting tool we have,” Gange said. North Massapequa Chief Joe Ferrante then honored Seltzer, a fire medic in Engine Company 3, and Gennardo, a firefighter in Ladder Company 1. Ferrante praised both for their tireless service, noting they respond to numerous calls at all hours. “We are blessed to have them in our department, and hope this recognition reminds them how much their ef-

forts are appreciated and respected,” he said. Local officials also attended, presenting citations to the honorees. Among them were Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Town Councilman Andrew Monteleone, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, and Nassau County Legislators James Kennedy and Rose Walker. “When we call you heroes, we don’t say the half of it,” Saladino told the assembled firefighters. “We know who protects us. We get it and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Carolyn James/Herald

Superintendent Gina Talbert listens to comments following vote on her new, two-year contract. CONTINUED FROM COVER

tyville,” she said. “Her experience, coupled with her vision for our district, will be a great asset to the district.” Since then, some board members and community members have raised concerns about her leadership, saying she has failed to be responsive to board members and staff in a timely manner and has done little to address student performance. The district has an 80 percent graduation rate, with 24 percent of students proficient in reading and 21 percent proficient in math based on standardized tests, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Former school board member Wendy Canestro said the decision of the board’s majority was a “political move to thwart the community’s voice.” “Talbert has been ineffective in moving the needle on student achievement with the majority of students two or more grade levels behind,” Canestro said. “How many more students is the current board majority willing to sacrifice on the altar of failed leadership? This decision is irresponsible and straps the next board — which is likely going to flip — with this problem.” Johnson, Kretz and Seehof are all up for reelection in May 2026, and the seat formerly held by Carol Fanning is also open. Others supported the move. Nehring said he and the other trustees who voted to extend Talbert’s contract

were carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to them by voters. “If we wait for the next group (board) to make this decision, then what was the point in us being here,” Nehring said. He was reelected to the board in May 2025. Seehof said she believed Talbert had done a good job leading the district and said she was “comfortable” with her decision. Also supporting the extension was Amityville Teachers Association President Nakia Wolfe, who said the board made the right decision and thanked the superintendent for her leadership. Bishop Walter C. Willie Jr., pastor of Prayer Tabernacle in Amityville, said he supported the board’s decision but acknowledged the district faces challenges. “We are hoping that you now will be able to move forward and address these deficiencies,” he said. The board notified Talbert in June 2025, that her contract would not be renewed but did not begin a search for a replacement. Trustees Leon and Messmann tried to push the board to hire a firm to conduct the search for a new superintendent, but those resolutions were turned down by the board’s majority. “At this time, I do not see the level of financial stability or academic progress that would justify granting a two-year extension,” Leon said. Superintendent Talbert was not immediately available for comment. The next school board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, at 7:30 p.m.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino addresses the audience.

Chamber President Robin Hepworth congratulates North Massapequa Firefighter John Gennardo.

Massapequa C of C accepting applications for scholarships The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its $1,000 scholarship for a graduating senior. Applicants must be a current chamber member in good standing. Applica-

tions are due by March 13. Massapequa High School students may apply through the guidance office. All other applicants can download an application at massapequachamber.org.

County Comptroller Elaine Phillips (L) and County Legislator Rose Walker (R) congratulate North Massapequa Fire Medic Stephanie Seltzer.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Massapequa firefighters honored for dedication and service

CRIME WATCH

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

The following incidents were reported by the Nassau County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service agencies:

LARCENY FROM AUTO

Massapequa Park: Someone removed the catalytic converter from a vehicle parked in front of 355 Ocean Ave. The theft occurred between Feb. 28 and March 1.

HOUSE FIRE

North Massapequa: Police said of-

ficers responded to a Seneca Drive home for a fire Thursday at 6:28 p.m. Officers saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the house when they arrived. The North Massapequa Fire Department and neighboring departments extinguished the fire. The Nassau County fire marshal and the Arson Bomb Squad also responded. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines Editions

Publication Dates

Lacrosse Preview ........................................... Apr. 9 Football Preview .........................................Sept. 10 Basketball Preview .......................................Dec. 17

Residential Program: Beacon House

SPECIAL PACKAGE Print and digital combined

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

•Maryhaven Center of Hope-New Hope 24-hr. substance abuse crisis center: 516-546-7070; maryhaven.chsli.org/newhope •N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516-2278255 •LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111 •24/7 Behavioral health helpline: 516-

Domestic Violence

N.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Crisis services for victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault; group/individual counseling for adults and children; bilingual court advocacy; legal consultation and representation; safe emergency housing; elder abuse services; referrals and systems advocacy; community education. Eligibility criteria: Nassau County residents or non-residents seeking safe housing in Nassau. Will serve undocumented immigrants. Payments accepted free or on sliding scale. Address is 250 Fulton Avenue, Mezzanine West, Hempstead. Call 516-572-0700; 24hour hotline is 516 542-0404.

Read the Massapequa Herald Post for all of your local news. Call 516-569-4000 to subscribe.

HOW TO REACH US Our offices are located at 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.massapequapost.com / www.liherald.com/Babylon ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: cjames@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 329 E-mail: cjames@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legals@liherald.com 1340355

Call 516-569-4000 | ext. 250 or your account representative or email rglickman@liherald.com

1339095

Reserve your space today!

Short-term, long-term and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and non-veterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.

227-8255, namiqn.org/crisis-info •AA Meetings Nassau County: For More Information on meetings and times call 866-504-6974 or go to findrecovery.com/aa_meetings/ny/nassaucounty/

The Massapequa Herald Post USPS 333440, is published every Wednesday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Massapequa Herald Post, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year auto-pay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

It’s time to check your fire and CO alarms “As we change our clocks for the season, I urge all residents to take a moment to also change the batteries in their carbon monoxide detectors,” reminded Robert Macaluso Chief of the Deer Park Fire Department and a New York State fire official. “Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly, and a properly working carbon monoxide alarm can provide the early warning needed to protect you and your family.” Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Choose a CO alarm labeled by a recognized testing laboratory and follow manufacturer instructions for placement and mounting height. Test alarms at least once a month. Daylight Saving Time also marks the unofficial start of spring, making it a good time for a thorough home safety check. Fire officials recommend clearing clutter, cleaning around appliances, and removing

sources. Additional fire safety tips from FASNY and the National Fire Protection Association include: •Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including inside and outside sleeping areas. •Follow manufacturer instructions for approved battery types. •Mount smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on a wall, at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms. •People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use alarms equipped with strobe lights and bed shakers. •Practice a two-minute escape plan with at least two ways out of every room and a meeting spot at a safe distance from the home. •Keep smoke alarms free of dust and debris. •Clean dust, grime and grease from appliances and electrical cords.

Photo: Creative Metro debris from high-heat areas such as dryer vents and stovetops, where dust and built-up grime can act as ignition

Founded in 1872, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York represents the interests of the 80,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel across the state. For more information, visit fasny.com. —Carolyn James

HOUSE Job Fair!

Now Hiring Sales Professionals Join One of Long Island’s Leading Media Companies Richner Communications is expanding our sales team and looking for motivated, competitive professionals ready to grow their careers.

Now Hiring:

• Outside Advertising Sales (must have car)

Wednesday, March 18

• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM • 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

516-569-4000 ext. 239 careers@liherald.com

We offer strong earning potential, established multimedia products, digital solutions, and a respected brand presence throughout the communities we serve. If you have proven sales experience and the drive to succeed, we want to meet you.

Location

RCI Headquarters 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530

Publishers of: 1339673

• Inside Advertising Sales • Digital Advertising Sales

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

With Daylight Saving Time now in effect, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York is reminding [Insert local residents] to check the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. When clocks move forward one hour, fire officials say, it’s an ideal time to make sure every home is protected with functioning life-safety devices. Local fire officials noted that the seasonal time change serves as a simple cue to check alarms and replace batteries as needed. The call comes with urgency. New York has recorded 22 civilian fire fatalities in 2026, underscoring the toll house fires take on communities statewide. Roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or nonworking alarms. A functioning smoke detector can provide the early warning residents need to escape safely. Smoke detectors with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are effective for up to a decade. If an alarm begins chirping, it should be replaced immediately. Detectors with replaceable batteries should have batteries changed at least once a year. Residents should also check the expiration date on the back of the device.

From parkway peril to a second chance - kitten overcomes rare eyelid defect North, a female kitten, has a harrowing rescue tale. In November, a young woman spotted a tiny tuxedo kitten wandering along the edge of the busy Northern State Parkway near Jericho.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

until this week, when she arrived at our Wantagh Adoption Center for adoption. Now 7 months, she likes to cuddle with other cats.

ABOUT FRANKIE:

North isn’t Last Hope’s ABOUT NORTH: first kitten with agenesis to She pulled her car over and undergo this delicate surgigrabbed the 12-week-old waycal repair. ward waif, rushing her to her In 2013, Frankie, an orange mother, Mary, a volunteer tabby kitten found in Baldand foster cat mom for Last win with this eyelid malforHope Animal Rescue mation, received a pro bono JOANNE Lucky little North was operation as a homeless pet ANDERSON named after the precarious patient through the “AMC to parkway so we’d never forget the Rescue” program at the where her twist of fate began. Was she Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in abandoned there? We will never know. New York City. It was immediately apparent that The AMC, located on the Upper East Side North’s eyes were squinty and tearing. of Manhattan, is a nonprofit veterinary Our clinic veterinarian and volunteers institution that has been a national leader were amazed at how friendly North was in animal care, education and research despite her ordeal. The doctor realized for over a century. Thirteen years ago, its that North didn’t have a typical ocular “AMC to the Rescue” program was relainfection, but instead a congenital defect tively new. The center established the comcalled agenesis, in which a cat’s eyelids munity fund specifically to provide subsi— especially the top ones — form incomdized specialty care to animals cared for pletely, leaving gaps where the eyeballs by rescue groups whose health conditions are not protected from debris or irritamight otherwise prevent adoption. tion. This condition causes feline corneal Frankie’s vision impairment would have exposure, ulcers, pain and eventually videterred prospective owners. Frankie’s sion loss. mom, Ali, fostered and eventually adopted Last Hope sent North to a veterinary him. He’s now in his teens and still doing ophthalmologist for repair of both eyewell. The AMC is also a teaching hospital, lids. Reconstruction usually includes and Frankie’s case was a ‘purrfect’ learngrafting tissue from the lower lids or lips ing experience. to make the upper eyelid complete. North Frankie’s good fortune didn’t end with had been recovering under Mary’s care his special surgery. In December 2013, AMC

staff invited Frankie, his mom Ali and Last Hope volunteers to join them at the closing bell ceremony at NASDAQ headquarters on Broadway and 43rd Street. Frankie was a guest alongside two St. Bernards that helped alleviate stress for emergency workers responding to the tragedies at the Sandy Hook School and Boston Marathon. Dignitaries posed with our grateful Last Hope kitten. At the podium were the AMC chief of operations, the chief of veterinary staff and a NASDAQ vice president, who delivered remarks with Frankie in his arms. After the bell signaled the end of stock trading, Frankie (in his carrier) and his Last Hope escorts ventured into the center of Times Square. As we watched a giant slideshow on the towering NASDAQ screen, our Frankie appeared larger-thanlife — bigger than King Kong atop the Empire State Building — for all of Manhattan, and the world, to see. Imagine the hush over the crowd, gazing at Frankie’s new fancy eyelids up on the giant screen. It was truly a “Miracle on 43rd Street.” Not bad for a once-nearly-blind kitten from Baldwin.

BACK TO NORTH:

Our tiny tuxedo will never be able to brag that her new eyelids graced the huge NASDAQ marquee in Times Square. But as far as we know, North wasn’t carrying a compass on the day in November when she came close to losing her life on the parkway. Yet somehow, someway, North man-

Frankie with the NASDAQ vice president at the closing bell ceremony in 2013.

North, tuxedo kitten rescued off Northern State Parkway, received two surgeries to repair her eyelids. aged to step out at the right moment, at the precise spot, when the right person would drive by, stop and whisk her into the safe arms of Last Hope. Think about the acute sense of direction and timing of this partially blind kitten. Her geographical and chronological coordinates defy coincidence. For more information about North, call 631-671-2588.

Real News, Real Local ...

All The Time!

Nobody covers your home town like we do all in on trusted place.

3 Easy Ways To Subscribe

Super easy — do it yourself! Scan the QR code to subscribe. It’s Fast and easy.

Visit liherald.com/Subscribe, to sign-up and start having the Herald delivered to your mailbox each week.

Call us at (516) 569-4000 x7 and speak with a member of our team. They’ll be happy to help!

1337663

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Shown at the induction are Leonard (Bud) Antonelli, president of the Massapequa Kiwanis Club; William Brennan, superintendent of the Massapequa School District; Daniel Pearl, mayor of Massapequa Park; and Stacey Shortell, secretary of the Massapequa Kiwanis Club.

Kiwanis Club Welcomes Brennan, Pearl Massapequa leaders inducted as new members Kiwanis clubs across the globe are dedicated to improving the world—one child and one community at a time. Members promote the adoption and application of high social, business and professional standards and set an example for an intelligent, aggressive and serviceable citizenship. For more information on Massapequa Kiwanis and its services, call Jim Taratunio, Vice President and Publicity Chair at (516) 551-8232. You can also email him at jtkiwanis@gmail.com. Or go to massapequakiwanis.org for more information a bout the organization

Read the Massapequa Herald Post for all of your local news. Call 516-569-4000 to subscribe.

1338905

The Kiwanis Club of Massapequa recently inducted two new members: Dr. William Brennan, superintendent of the Massapequa School District, and Daniel Pearl, mayor of Massapequa Park. “They will add their strength in the community and influence to help bring Massapequa Kiwanis to greater heights in our town, which will enable us to continue to support our local community through service projects, donations and hands-on help to benefit our residents of Massapequas,” said Leonard Antonelli, president of the Massapequa Kiwanis Club.

1314700

For Information on advertising here, call Ellen Reynolds at 516-569-4000 Ext. 286

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

HERALD SPORTS

Paul Grassini/Herald photos

Plainedge captains, from left, Giovanna Pannitti, Peyton Wise and Allison Younghans hoisted the county title hardware.

Red Devils roll to county championship By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The No. 4 seed in the Nassau Class A girls’ basketball playoffs left no doubt who’s No. 1. Junior-led Plainedge capped a sensational county tournament run last Friday night with a resounding 48-28 victory over third-seeded Floral Park in the championship game at Farmingdale State College. “It’s really amazing and unbelievable,” said junior point guard Allison Younghans, who led all scorers with 17 points. “We practiced hard all week and everyone played great,” she added. “I’m so proud of our team.” It’s the second county title in five seasons and third all-time for the Red Devils (17-6), who’ll seek their first-ever Long Island crown when they face Shoreham-Wading River (20-2) Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Stony Brook University. Freshman Maddie Belz scored 10 points off the bench, and juniors Peyton Wise and Michela Netto added 9 and 7 points, respectively, as Plainedge, fueled

by defense, followed a 44-41 win over topseeded defending Nassau and L.I. Class A champion Wantagh in the semifinals with a dominant performance. “It’s pretty surreal,” Plainedge head coach Sarah Tansey said. “I’m so happy for these girls. They worked so hard to get here and wanted to win so bad. They weren’t nervous and played aggressive and focused.” Wise (5) and Younghans combined for the game’s first nine points and the Red Devils were off and running. They blanked the Knights for the first 5:10 and allowed just one field goal in the opening quarter and three in the first half. Junior Christina Vargas scored 11 points off the bench and sophomore Juliette Payoute added 8 for Floral Park, which finished 17-6. Netto, who had 5 steals, scored all of her points in the second quarter to help Plainedge build a stunning 25-10 halftime lead against a conference rival it split 3-point regular-season matchups with. “We played such an incredible first half, but we knew we had to keep push-

ing to the finish line,” Netto said. “At halftime we talked about just pretending it was a tie game and to keep doing what we’re doing. We were ready for them to come out strong in the second half.” The Knights, however, were unable to get any closer than 15. Plainedge opened the second half much like it did the first. Younghans had a basket, two free throws and set up junior Giovanna Pannitti’s swished trey to increase the advantage to 32-10. “I don’t have enough words to describe Allie,” Tansey said of Younghans. “That kid has a motor like I’ve never seen before. She’s a three-year starter who goes hard every second she’s on the court.” The Red Devils took a 36-18 lead into a fourth quarter that saw Belz scored six points and junior Emma Throo provide the exclamation point with a late basket. “It’s so exciting,” Wise said. “Every practice we had this week was geared towards what we had to accomplish tonight and it couldn’t have turned out any better.”

Allison Younghans, right, had a gamehigh 17 points in the Red Devils’ 48-28 win over Floral Park in the Nassau Class A final.

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

Three-peat state title for Plainedge’s Downes By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com

Plainedge wrestling has a storied past but never has a wrestler at the North Massapequa school won three straight state championships. Devin Downes has made history. The senior posted his “3-peat’’ in Albany Feb. 28 at the 215-pound weight class when he pinned all four of his opponents, including Minisink Valley’s Zach Filip in the finals. Downes notched a state trifecta at three different weight classes – 170 pounds in 2024 and 190 pounds in 2025. “It’s a big tradition here, so for him to come through that room and be the first three-time New York state champ speaks a lot about his character and work ethic,’’ Plainedge coach John Nuzzi said. A University of Maryland commit, Downes is an example of grit on the mat. “Just really, really hard work,’’ said Downes. “When I started wrestling, I wasn’t the prodigy or most talented or strongest. One thing about me, I was always the hardest worker. That’s the one thing that got me here. I outworked everybody.’’ Downes’ graciousness is striking for a high-school kid. “I’m extremely grateful for all the people around me who helped me with

Raymond Nelson/Herald

Plainedge senior Devin Downes made history Feb. 28 winning his third straight state wrestling championship. this,’’ Downes said. “It’s too hard to do it on my own – my parents, coaches, family and all teammates around me. This doesn’t get done just on your own. And I also know how much work I’ve put into it as well.’’ The climb from 170 pounds to 215 was a natural progression – not a strategic one. “Whatever I was weighed and felt

comfortable at, that’s where I was going,’’ Downes said. “I didn’t care who was there. It wasn’t really a conscious thing. I just kept growing.’’ Nuzzi, in his first season at Plainedge after stints at Westbury, Chaminade and Freeport, said, “He was a small 170-pounder but he kept putting on muscle mass from working out.’’

When Downes wrestled at 170, Nuzzi was leading Westbury. “Coaching against him last couple of years, I felt the kid was a phenomenal wrestler,’’ Nuzzi said. “Coaching him and getting him to accomplish his goals was amazing as the kid is a remarkable wrestler as well as in the classroom.’’ The three different weight classes each created challenges but none too big for Downes. “When he was at 170 in 2024, guys are a lot faster,’’ Nuzzi said. “At 190, you start slowing down and using body, single-leg stuff. To win it this year against bigger guys, this mindset going into the season was we’re not going to change anything but tweak some things.’’ His signature move is the single leg. “Everybody knows about it, but he sticks to it and doesn’t get denied,’’ Nuzzi said. At the Nassau County finals Feb. 15 at Hofstra, he pinned Sewanhaka East’s Justin DiPietro in 1:37. The 6-1 Downes, who has a 92 GPA, will wrestle at Maryland at 197. Nuzzi says the Big 10 is “the cream of the crop for college wrestling.’’ “I went there and it blew all my expectations out of the water,’’ Downes said of his Maryland visit. “The connection I had with the coaches, team, school, it is an amazing academic school. It was the full package.’’

Baldwin outlasts Massapequa for county title By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

There was no secret what head coach Tom Catapano felt Baldwin needed to overcome last Saturday afternoon to capture its 11th Nassau girls’ basketball championship in 12 seasons. “I’ve never coached against a public school opponent with that much height,” he said of Massapequa. “They’ve got half a dozen 6-footers and so many great athletes. We knew we had to rely on our defense and speed to beat them.” Led by All-County guards senior Alyssa Polonia (17 points), junior Chinaya Okogeri (15) and sophomore Malia Robinson (15), the top-seeded Bruins celebrated another county title after defeating the Chiefs, 57-39, in the Class AAA final at Farmingdale State College. “It was a great high school basketball game,” Catapano said. “Massapequa put up a heck of a fight. Yes they had a size advantage and out-rebounded us, but our ability to force some turnovers and score on the fast break was ultimately the difference. I’m proud of the effort

and I thought our backcourt really stood out.” Baldwin (20-3) will face Walt Whitman (21-1) at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Stony Brook University for the Long Island Class AAA championship. The Wildcats have won three of the last four Suffolk County crowns and lost the LIC to the Bruins three years ago. “It’s exciting,” said Polonia, who scored a dozen points in the fourth quarter on a trio of shots from behind the arc and a traditional three-point play. “We knew we had to keep the pressure up all night and play our game using our speed,” she added. The Chiefs (19-6), who trailed 20-19 late in the second quarter before Baldwin went on a 13-point run, got 14 points from senior Savanna Appleton and 12 from senior Reese Reustle, who made her first start in more than two months. “We had a special group,” Massapequa head coach Billy Herr said. “We played with a lot more confidence than we did in the semifinals and we were right there. If we do a better job on some layups, it’s a different game. But

give Baldwin credit. Any time you play that team, they’re going to take advantage of every inch you give them.” Third-seeded Massapequa’s 12 firstquarter points against the Bruins were one more than it had at halftime of its 50-41 victory over Uniondale in the semifinals. Appleton and senior Maeve Schiereck (9 points) had the hot hands early and junior point guard Olivia Morgan had the offense in sync. Still, Baldwin led 13-12 as Robinson fueled the defense and transition game scoring nine points including a pair of fast-break layups off turnovers. “We always try to push the pace,” said Robinson, who hit a pair of free throws just before halftime for a 28-19 advantage. Reustle did her best to keep the Chiefs within striking distance. They fell behind by as many as 14 in the third quarter but her basket to open the fourth cut the deficit to 39-30. Then came another Bruins explosion. They scored 15 of the next 16 to shut the door. “We’re looking forward to the challenge of facing Whitman,” Catapano said. “It’ll be a battle.”

Media Origin Inc./Herald

Senior Maeve Schiereck, right, had 9 points for the Chiefs in a hard-fought Nassau Class AAA title game loss to Baldwin.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

HERALD SPORTS

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

WHAT’S UP NEXT DOOR AND AROUND THE CORNER

HERALD NEIGHBORS Massapequa’s Jesse Findling rises to the top 30 on American Idol By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherld.com

Massapequa Park’s Jesse Findling, 20, is making his mark on the national stage. The Massapequa High School graduate, now a Biology major at Binghamton University, advanced to the Top 30 on American Idol following a standout performance during Hollywood Week. At his audition, Findling performed “In the Stars” by Benson Boone for judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. All three judges gave him a standing ovation. Before Hollywood Week aired on March 2, Findling spoke with the Herald about living with a stutter that disappears when he sings, how the American Idol experience has inspired him, and his aspirations for the future once the season wraps. Jesse is the son of Joy and Scott Findling. He has a sister Samantha, 22, and a brother Jack, 15.

Q: Tell us about how you came to a love for music and singing. I’ve been singing since I was super little. It just started as something I would do at home, recording myself singing. I would sing with my brother and my sister, but then as the years went on, I started doing choirs inside and outside of school. So, I started really focusing on singing. It was an escape for me because I didn’t stutter when I sang. It was something I loved for that reason, and for so many other reasons. In high school, I started doing musicals. So, I would sing, act and dance, and do all that at once—that was a super awesome thing I did.

Q: What made you decide to audition for American Idol Season 24? I kept on singing and started posting on social media—I would say about a year ago. It was just kind of posting songs I heard on the radio, or just songs I liked. I started at zero followers, and then it was on one of the first videos I made that someone from American Idol reached out. I had only about 300 followers at that point, and this person asked if I wanted to audition for the show. That didn’t mean going to Nashville and auditioning for the show and the judges—that meant auditioning on Zoom because before you get on the show, you have to do a bunch of rounds of auditions on Zoom. So, I was like, sure, what do I have to lose?

Q: That must have been such an amazing moment when you got that notification? I wasn’t thinking much of it at first— I said let me just try and see what happens, and then I made it all the way here. It’s something I never thought would happen. I think it made the whole pre-audition process easier, someone finding me first, but I did have to go through a

number of auditions. Q: What would you say has been the most standout moment for you so far that makes you step back and marvel at where you’re at right now?

Courtesy Disney/Connie Chornuk

Jesse Findling is ready to wow the judges to be among only 30 American Idol hopefuls who will move forward in the competition. in because in the blink of an eye, it’s all going to be over, but it’s been super exciting and I wouldn’t change it.

Q: What does your family think of how far you’ve come and what would you like to say to them?

I think that moment for me is when I finished my audition and all the judges stood up. I’ve always said that from that moment I’m so much more confident now because singing was just something I did for enjoyment because I loved it, but to actually sing in front of the judges who I’ve looked up to for so long and getting that response, it was like—okay, I can actually sing and it resonates, so that moment I always think back about it—it was super special to be in that room and have them all stand up.

They’re like we’ve always known. I have the most supportive family, so having that support is super special and makes me want to sing well and pour my heart out every time I sing on that stage because I know that they’re watching. Knowing that I have that support is super special. I’m super grateful for them.

Q: What has this experience been like for you and what are you most looking forward to?

I want to make my own music. The goal would be to get a record deal and start making my own music and then start doing gigs. I’ve written some of my own music and I’ve started learning the guitar.

I’ve tried to live in the moment as much as possible. It’s been a super exciting experience for me and for my family. The fact that my family can be involved also is super special, but it’s totally unexpected. I was just back at school and then I auditioned for American Idol, and now I’m in Hollywood Week. I’m trying to live in the moment and soak it all

Q: What do you hope for after American Idol?

Q: How can readers follow your journey on American Idol?

To catch Jesse Findling on American Idol, tune into ABC on Monday nights at 8 p.m. Episodes may also be streamed on HULU. You can also follow Jesse on YouTube @jessefindling.

SPONSORED CONTENT MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Nearly 40% of LI Isn’t Fighting High Property Taxes Ownwell explains why Long Island homeowners are likely paying more than they should.

A System That Penalizes Non-Filers. �� homeowners agree that the current property tax system negatively affects �� of property owners successfully appeal their assessments, the overall tax burden �� who trust their initial assessments �� the process too confusing, and end up subsidizing tax reductions for those who �� tax system should function,” said Colton Pace, Founder and CEO of Ownwell. �� knowledge to pay their fair share.” The Affordability Crisis �� far exceeding the national median ��

of Long Island homeowners express concern about the long-term affordability of owning a home here due to property �� neighboring families trying to stay in the communities they love.

�� of savings and don’t cover SCAR �� Also, Ownwell has strong results. �� reductions for properties valued between �� the pre-SCAR level. �� his isn’t �� how a fair �� property properties valued between tax system �� should function. the pre-SCAR level. Ownwell combines Homeowners advanced data analysis with shouldn’t need local expert representation insider knowledge to build the strongest property tax appeal to pay their fair case using hundreds of share. comparable data points. �� COLTON PACE advocacy for you. Founder and

Why Nearly 40% Still Haven’t Filed.�� Island homeowners believe their county’s property tax system is either inaccurate �� Despite these concerns �� Long Island homeowners �� tax grievance. Among those �� were unaware they could challenge their assessment, �� gap is costing homeowners CEO of Ownwell thousands of dollars Time Is Running Out: �� Important Deadlines. If reform (or, at a minimum, �� accessible appeal options) has never property tax grievance, time is critical. been clearer. �� Nassau County: Deadline is March 31, Not All Property Tax Services Are The ��Suffolk County: Deadline is May Same.�� Westchester County: Ongoing a difference. Unlike the traditional deadlines vary by town from January

�� these deadlines means waiting another year and continuing to overpay on your property taxes. Don’t Let Your Neighbors’ Grievances Cost You More�� Island’s property tax system has created �� necessary to avoid overpaying. When �� successfully appealing their assessments, �� shouldering more than your fair share of the tax burden. Ownwell makes the process simple, affordable, and effective. �� for a reduction. With no upfront costs and payment only upon successful savings, there’s no risk. Only potential savings. In a property tax system where knowledge and action determine who pays their fair share, Ownwell levels the �� Don’t let another year of overpayment go by. Your deadline is approaching! Footnotes: https://www.ownwell.com/insight/longisland-homeowner-property-tax-survey/ https://www.ownwell.com/trends/newyork/nassau

1304659

f you’re a Long Island homeowner or property owner, there’s a strong chance you’re overpaying on your �� a tax grievance, you’re likely paying even more than you should. A recent survey1 of Long Island homeowners by �� a property tax grievance — nearly triple �� necessary defense against a property tax system that many homeowners say is broken.

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

celebrating women’s history month

Empowering and assisting the county’s libraries “Because to be able to work,” she said, “you need to have a resume, submit your application over email, and know how to use Word.” After finishing her degree, she worked at the The Nassau Library System is a cooperative of 54 libraries throughout the county. While each one is sup- Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library, in ported by local taxes and governed by its own board of Manhattan, part of a nationwide network that protrustees, the NLS provides services, materials and provides reading materials to patrons who are blind or visually impaired. Ashby, who worked gramming to all member libraries. with patrons by phone and email, and “One of the largest services we prosuggested braille and audio materials, vide are delivery services five days a credits this experience for broadening week,” NLS Director Caroline Ashby Joan whitney her perspective of library services. said. “We enable libraries to share Payson co-founder and owner In 2014 she was hired as assistant resources with one another. So when a new York Mets director of the NLS. “I wanted to come patron in Levittown wants to use a book back home and serve a community closonly owned by the Elmont library, we’ll er to my heart,” Ashby said. In 2019 she pick it up from Elmont, sort it in our was promoted to director. facility and send it to Levittown the next NLS delivers more than materials to day for the patron to check out. grace local libraries. Technology is a major “We save Nassau taxpayers thousands hartigan aspect of its service, as it provides abstract of dollars a year,” Ashby added, “by expressionist painter libraries with broadband internet serresource-sharing this way.” vice and organizes the shared-material Ashby, a native of Port Washington, influential women catalog. The online catalog allows any began her library career with the New on long island cardholder in the county to view materiYork Public Library while studying for a als available at system branches. master’s in library and information sciNLS offers continuing education for library staff. ences at the Pratt Institute. “I was a volunteer in the adult literacy center as a tutor,” she recalled. “These “We provide training to library trustees on their govwere people from their 40s to their 70s who’d made it ernance responsibilities, we provide training to library administrators on management and legal comthat far without real literacy skills.” At the center, Ashby built relationships with pliance topics, and training for public-facing staff on patrons and learned about the challenges they faced, outreach and best practices,” Ashby explained. such as a lack of technology skills. She decided to Through its networking opportunities, she added, the teach those as well, helping with internet browsing, NLS encourages librarians to “learn from one another setting up emails and teaching them Microsoft. so the service provided at public libraries in Nassau

By MADISON GUSLER

mgusler@liherald.com

Courtesy Caroline Ashby

Caroline Ashby, director of the Nassau Library System, with Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra at the 2025 Library Advocacy Day in Albany. can be as consistent as possible.” She also leads NLS’s advocacy work, connecting with local and state elected officials to ensure that libraries receive the funding and support available. “The more NLS can do to support member libraries,” Ashby said, “the more freedom those libraries have to serve their communities in close, responsive ways.”

Opening doors for the next generation of women By ALLYSON FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com

A leader helping Long Island girls find their voices traces that mission back to a childhood shaped by an immigrant’s perseverance and a belief that girls deserve the same opportunities to lead and succeed. Now, as executive director of Girls Inc. of Long Island, Patricia Charlemagne works to expand opportunities and leadership pathways for girls across the region. Charlemagne, 52, grew up in Queens before her family moved to Baldwin when she was 11. Now she lives in Baldwin with her husband of 15 years, Frank, and their two children, Alix, 13, and Taylor, 11. Her parents, immigrants from Haiti and the Dominican Republic, prioritized education above everything else. Growing up in a working-class immigrant household, Charlemagne said she was surrounded by opportunities that helped shape her interests and ambitions. “Education continues to be the most important thing to my family,” she said. “They were very committed to my education.” Despite her family’s modest means, she took part in activities including ballet and piano lessons, afterschool sports and school programs focused on the visual and performing arts. At the time, she said, she didn’t fully realize the sacrifices her family made to provide those opportunities. Those experiences later reinforced her belief that all children — regardless of economic background — deserve access to activities that help them grow and thrive. After graduating from high school, Charlemagne attended Wesleyan University, where she earned a

Courtesy Patricia Charlemagne

Patricia Charlemagne at the Girls Inc. of Long Island fall gala in November, which celebrated the 20th anniversary of the organization. bachelor’s degree before following it with a law degree from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law and a doctorate in educational and organizational leadership from the University of Pennsylvania. During her studies, she developed an interest in how laws and workplace systems treated women differently, particularly women of color — which eventually led her to a career in nonprofit leadership.

Girls Inc. offers girls mentorship, leadership development and exposure to career pathways often dominated by men. Industries such as the trades and technology still have a relatively low representation of women, she said, something she hopes to change by introducing girls to those fields early. “My journey to Girls Inc. of Long Island has been a full recognition that when girls are given resources, when girls are given opportunities, when girls are made to feel safe and a sense of belonging,” Charlemagne said, “there is no limit to what they can do.” In addition to youth programming, the organization has begun partnering with companies working to diversify their workforces. The goal, she said, is to help businesses create environments in which women feel supported and encouraged to pursue careers in under-represented fields. Charlemagne believes women and girls should be included when decisions are made, rather than having programs and policies created for them without their input. Her perspective has been shaped by challenges she has faced as a woman in the workforce, including disparities in pay and having her ideas overlooked. “You share an idea and no one hears it,” she said. “Then a man repeats the idea, and all of a sudden it makes perfect sense.” Those experiences, she said, reinforced the importance of helping girls develop confidence and learn to advocate for themselves. For Charlemagne, empowering girls also means encouraging women to support one another and prioritize their well-being. “Take care of yourself first,” she said. “You cannot do anything for anyone else if you’re not taking care of yourself.”

Amityville’s Maria Vineyard honored at Sen. Martinez’s Black History celebration education. She has taught English in grades 8-12 in Hawaii, Texas and New York, and previously served as interim assistant principal and lead teacher, specializing in AP Research and African American literature. In her leadership roles, she strengthened English curricula and expanded access to culturally relevant texts and instructional practices. She has also taught at Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology and served as an adjunct professor at Molloy University. Vineyard has facilitated professional development workshops on culturally relevant pedagogy and restorative justice, mentored new educators and served on doctoral dissertation committees. A two-time Starmaker Teacher Award recipient, Vineyard contributed to the book “Critical Praxis Leadership: Grassroots Narratives for Justice-Driven Leaders for a Democratic Future.” She earned a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s in English education, an advanced certificate in school building leadership and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from Molloy University. Beyond her professional work, Vineyard has coordinated Black History Month programs, served on leadership committees and contributed to the district’s exit from state receivership. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., serves on her church’s Chaplains Council and is a Deaconess in Training and youth choir director.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Amityville Memorial High School Assistant Principal Dr. Maria Vineyard was among those recognized by State Sen. Monica Martinez during her annual Black History Month celebration on Feb. 20. “I am grateful to Senator Monica Martinez and proud to serve a school community that embraces the power of kindness and the wisdom of Sankofa, honoring the past as we move forward,” said Vineyard. “This recognition affirms the importance of creating spaces where every student, parent, faculty, and staff member feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness.” The event, held each year to honor leaders from the Fourth Senatorial District, marked 100 years of organized efforts to recognize and study Black history. The 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” highlighted the influence of Black history on American society. “Dr. Maria Vineyard represents the leadership qualities and commitment to her community we recognize during Black History Month,” said Martinez. “Throughout her career, she has worked to make sure students see themselves and their lived experiences reflected in the curriculum and in their classrooms. As an educator, Dr. Vineyard continues to shape learning environments that honor identity, encourage achievement, and prepare the next generation to lead.” Vineyard was honored in the field of

Courtesy Amityville school district

On Feb. 20, Amityville Memorial High School Assistant Principal Dr. Maria Vineyard, left, was honored by State Senator Monica Martinez during her annual Black History Month Celebration.

Massapequa Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual

GRAND MARSHAL

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

MASSAPEQUA CHAMBER MEMBERS & COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS REGISTER HERE TO MARCH:

PARADE

KICK OFF 11:00 AM BROADWAY IN MASSAPEQUA (BETWEEN JERUSALEM AVE. & VETERANS BLVD.)

BRIAN KILMEADE

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

MAIN/POT O’GOLD

BLARNEY STONE

LEPRECHAUN GOLF CART

CLOVER (LI PRESS)

EMERALD ISLE

DUBLIN ENTERTAINMENT

SHAMROCK

Gary Slavin, Financial Services Representative

COPPER PENNY 1340354

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

HERALD SPORTS Confident Hofstra brings high hopes By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The Hofstra women’s lacrosse team fell one game short in its quest for a conference tournament spot last season and is determined this spring to be on the championship stage. The Pride were picked to finish fifth in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) preseason poll, which would leave it once again on the outside looking in for reaching the four-team league playoffs. Hofstra placed fifth last year with a 4-4 CAA mark to finish one game behind Elon for the final tourney spot. “We want to do everything we can to get into the CAA playoffs to give us an opportunity to play for the CAA championship, and an opportunity to win and get into the NCAA tournament,” said 14th-year Hofstra head coach Shannon Smith. “The only way to do that is by playing a very competitive non conference schedule to prepare us for a conference play.” Leading the charge to bring Hofstra into the postseason is red-shirt junior attacker Nikki Mennella, who tallied 99 points on the strength of 62 goals and 37 assists last year. The reigning 2025 CAA Attacker of the Year registered six goals and seven draw controls in a 14-8 win at Marist on Feb. 26. “She is a warrior out there on the field,” said Smith of Mennella, a USA Lacrosse preseason All-American selection who registered 24 goals and 11 assists through Hofstra’s first seven games. “She’s electric and has and can shoot the ball very well but more importantly she celebrates her teammates’ success even that much more and gets so excited for their big plays and goals, which is really fun to see.” The Pride also returned sophomore attacker Kayleigh Bender, who was named the CAA Rookie of the Year as a freshman after recording 41 points on 31 goals and 10 assists. The Huntington High School product tallied a season-

Nikki Mennella found the back of the net 62 times last spring and tallied 99 points. high four goals in Hofstra’s 12-7 Valentine’s Day victory at Quinnipiac. Hofstra’s offense has featured multiple scoring weapons early in the season including junior midfielder Natalie DeMeo (10 goals) and junior attacker Kristen Redding (seven goals). Freshmen Charli Joyce and Shannon Steck, a Massapequa native and Saint Anthony’s graduate, have also shown offensive potential early in their collegiate careers. The defense is anchored by junior defender Christine Dannenfelser, who was named to the All-CAA First Team as a sophomore with 42 ground balls and 24 caused turnovers along with 58 draw controls. “She’s everywhere on the field,” said

Back attacked? We’ve Got Specialists For That ®

Smith of Dannenfelser. “She plays very inspired and with a sense of urgency.” Dannenfelser leads a defensive unit that features juniors Evin Terzioglu and Natalie Little. Local freshmen Grace Varley, a Babylon native, and Brighid Smith, a Wagner transfer who was an All-County player at Wantagh High School. Senior goalie Luchianna Cardello patrols the net for her final college season this spring. The former Massapequa High School standout recorded 12 saves in a 16-9 home loss to third-ranked Maryland on March 4 and eight stops in the Quinnipiac triumph. “Lulu is seeing the ball very well,” said Smith of Cardello, who also had 12 saves in a 17-7 setback at Big Ten foe

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications

Massapequa native Luchianna Cardello patrols the crease for the Pride. Rutgers on Feb. 28.. “She is a senior so she has seen all sorts of different game scenarios and different shots.” Hofstra opens up CAA play at home this Saturday against Elon at noon before hosting Ivy League Power Princeton Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. The Pride conclude the CAA regular season at home on April 25 against William & Mary before what they hope will be a conference semifinal game the following week on April 30 hosted by defending league champion Stony Brook.

516.536.2800 | orlincohen.com

1339305

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

From the community. For the community. We help Nassau residents save. Hablamos Español Apply online at mptrg.com/heraldwrap or call 516.715.1280

WE DON’T PLAY GAMES. WE GET RESULTS.

Apply online at mptrg.com/heraldwrap or call 516.715.1280

Hablamos Español

M E H T S V US

Surprise

35 + Years Of Experience Native To

Industry Newcomers Not Based

DEADLINE MARCH 31ST Maidenbaum Property Tax Reduction Group, LLC – 483 Chestnut Street, Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Apply online at mptrg.com/heraldwrap or call 516.715.1280

DEADLINE MARCH 31ST

or older and can only display and sell original, handcrafted pieces. Commercial or mass-produced items will not be permitted. Participants are responsible for supplying their own 10x10 canopy and any additional equipment needed for their space. Full details, including associated costs, are outlined in the application available online. Organized by the Town’s Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division, Art in the Park celebrates a diverse range of handcrafted works, including ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculptures, and more. To apply, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/capa or contact the Cultural and Performing Arts Division at (516) 797-7932 for more information.\

Read the Massapequa Herald Post for all of your local news. Call 516-569-4000 to subscribe.

PROUD TO CARE FOR AMERICA’S GREATEST GENERATION CARING FOR LOVED ONES

• Facility/In Home C Care Insurance • Long Term Insura ance Accepted Experienced • Trusted & Experie enced Caregivers

CARE BEYOND COMPARE

2026 TOP 3 FINALIST

24/7

Honoring H onoring 250 250 Years Years of of the the U.S.A. U.S.A. LONG L LO ONG ISLAND’S ISL SLAND’ SLAN AND’ AN DSP PR PREMIER REM EM MIIIE ER HOMECARE AGENCY H HO OME M CA AR RE EA GE ENC CY

516-719-0909 5 16-719-0909

TTLCCOMPANIONS.COM LCCOMPANIONS.COM EVERYONE EV VER ERYO ERYO YONE NE NEEDS NEE EEDS D A LITTLE LIT TT TL LE TLC TLC TL

1339492

Oyster Bay Town is inviting local artists and artisans to participate in a special day of creativity and community at Art in the Park. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 30, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach in Oyster Bay, offering a unique platform for talented individuals to display and sell their handcrafted creations. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 15, 2026. “Art in the Park provides an incredible opportunity for local artists and artisans to showcase their best work, connect with the community, and gain recognition,” said Councilman Tom Hand. “Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your creativity and be part of a vibrant community event, featuring live music, food trucks, and fun activities for kids.” Artists and artisans must be 18 years

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Applications now open for artists & artisans to display and sell creations

JOIN US IN DEER PARK... IT‘S FREE!

HEALTH SCREENINGS

LIVE DEMOS &

EXPERT PANEL + Q&A

RAFFLES & GIVEAWAYS

FOOD &

LOCAL EXHIBITORS

ENTERTAINMENT

04.16.26

10AM - 12:30PM M DEER PARK

DEER PARK KNIGHTS

REFRESHMENTS

759 LONG ISLAND AVE, DEER PARK LEARN ABOUT ALL THINGS HEALTH, WEALTH AND WELLNESS!

SPONSORED BY

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

THURSDAY, MARCH 12

O N

Work Session: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.

•Town of Oyster Bay Planning Advisory Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333. •Plainedge School District Board of Education Meeting: 7:30 p.m., High School Cafeteria, Plainedge High School, 241 Wyngate Dr., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 992-7450.

S T A G E

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15

Featuring the music of WHITNEY HOUSTON

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

MAR 12–APR 26

•Plainedge Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 7 p.m., Plainedge Public Library, 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa. For more information, please call (516) 735-4210. •Massapequa Fire District Monthly

U P

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

•Farmingdale School District Board of Education Meeting- Budget Workshop: 8 p.m., Howitt Middle School, 70 Van Cott Ave., Farmingdale. For more information, call (516) 434-5189. •Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

MONDAY, MARCH 16

N E X T

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Massapequa Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

Lerner & Loewe’s

PICTURE PERFECT, NOW

YOU TASTE IT

JULY 9–AUG 23 Butcher’s Savory Collection

T H E A T E R

4 Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons (5 oz.) 4 Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (5 oz.) 4 Boneless Pork Chops (5 oz.) 4 Individual Scalloped Potatoes (3.8 oz.) 4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.) 1 Omaha Steaks Seasoning (3 oz.) 8 FREE Omaha Steaks Classic Burgers (4 oz.)

Rogers & Hammerstein’s

81305DBC separately $294.94 SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICE

TYA Youth Edition

Mar 21–Apr 26

SAVE 56%

Order Now!

Jul 18–Aug 23

GET 8

FREE BURGERS A $23 value!

12999

OmahaSteaks.com/Savory3101 | 1.888.792.3598 ��

2 5 0 M A I N S T R E E T , N O R T H P O R T , N Y 11 7 6 8

1339945

THE BEST STEAKS OF YOUR LIFE OR YOUR MONEY BACK *Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Photos exemplary of product advertised. Limit 2. 8 free (4 oz.) burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes 81305. Standard S&H added per address. While supplies last. Items may be substituted due to inventory limitations. Some products may not be available for sale in your area. Sales are subject to OmahaSteaks.com/terms-of-use. Expires 03/31/26. | 25M8964 | Omaha Steaks, LLC

1331093

C H I L D R E N’S

STEPPING OUT

Classic Irish Soda Bread

Irish-American Soda Bread

Cheese Soda Bread

Get your Irish on for St. Patrick’s Day A taste of the Emerald Isle

By Karen Bloom ith hints of spring beginning to emerge (or so we hope), St. Patrick’s Day arrives like a cheerful burst of green, bringing with it a welcome dose of celebration and comfort. The beloved holiday is about more than festive attire and lively parades — it’s a chance to gather with family and friends, savor time-honored traditions and, of course, enjoy the rich flavors of Irish cooking. From the hearty satisfaction of corned beef and cabbage to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked soda bread, St. Patrick’s Day offers the perfect excuse to bring a little Irish spirit into the kitchen. Naturally, no St. Patrick’s Day table would be complete without one of Ireland’s most beloved staples: Irish soda bread. This simple, satisfying quick bread — made with baking soda rather than yeast — has been a household favorite for generations. Whether you prefer the classic loaf or a modern twist, such as soda bread muffins, there’s a version to suit every taste and skill level. Best of all, it’s easy to make, making it a perfect recipe to add to your seasonal repertoire.

Classic Irish Soda Bread The “real” Irish soda bread consists simply of flour, baking soda, salt and buttermilk. At the other end of the spectrum is Americanized Irish soda bread, a white, sweet, cake-like confection filled with raisins or currants and caraway seeds. Both are equally delicious! • 3 1/2 cups unbleached all purpose flour • 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk • Salted butter (preferably Kerrygold) Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. To a large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, and baking soda. Whisk to combine thoroughly. Using a wooden spoon, make a well in the

center of the dry ingredients. Add the buttermilk to the dry ingredients in the well. Use the wooden spoon to gently stir the ingredients together, starting at the center of the bowl and slowly working out. The dough will be very shaggy, that’s perfect! Lightly flour a work surface, and pour the dough out onto the surface. Use your hands to gently knead the dough about 4 times, until it comes together, and the surface is slightly smoother. Use the palms of yours hands to shape into a round loaf. Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle the top with flour. Use a sharp chefs knife to slash a large X on the top of the dough. Transfer right away to the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 450°. Lower the temperature to 400°F, rotate the pan 180° in the oven, and bake for another 25-30 minutes until deeply golden brown. Allow the bread to cool for at least 20 minutes, then serve warm with salted butter.

Irish-American Soda Bread This classic quick bread recipe also brings great taste into your home. • 5 cups all purpose flour • 1 cup sugar • 1 tablespoon baking powder • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes, room temperature • 2 1/2 cups raisins • 3 tablespoons caraway seeds • 2 1/2 cups buttermilk • 1 large egg Preheat oven to 350° F. Generously butter heavy ovenproof 10- to 12-inch-diameter skillet with 2- to 2 1/2-inch-high sides. Whisk first five ingredients in large bowl to blend. Add butter; using fingertips, rub in until coarse crumbs form. Stir in raisins and caraway seeds. Whisk buttermilk and egg in medium bowl to blend. Add to dough; using wooden spoon, stir just until well incorporated (dough

will be very sticky). Transfer dough to prepared skillet; smooth top, mounding slightly in center. Using small sharp knife dipped into flour, cut 1-inch-deep X in top center of dough. Bake until bread is cooked through and tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 1 hour 15 minutes. Cool bread in skillet 10 minutes. Turn out onto rack and cool completely. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Wrap tightly in foil; store at room temperature.) Serve with hot tea and organic jam, Irish stew, traditional Irish cabbage dishes, or enjoy on its own!

The Grammy-nominated global music sensation returns with their new tour, Celtic Woman — A New Era. The show, featuring Mairéad Carlin, Muirgen O’Mahony, Ciara Ní Mhurchú, and new singer Caitríona Sherlock, fuses the ensemble’s signature sound with fresh orchestrations, dynamic stage production, and a contemporary spark that honors Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage while embracing Celtic Woman’s continued evolution. The concert promises to be a mesmerizing blend of timeless tradition and modern storytelling, a spellbinding tribute to the enduring power of Irish music and the extraordinary talents of the performers. Audiences can expect an unforgettable and energetic evening with renowned and breathtaking harmonies, stirring original compositions, and instrumental virtuosity brought to life, reflecting the vibrancy of modern Ireland and its heritage.

Sunday, March 15, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Cheese Soda Bread This modern savory twist is another winner. • 2 1/2 cups flour • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons caraway seed • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper, ground • 1/2 cup shredded Irish Cheddar cheese • 2 eggs • 1 1/4 cups buttermilk Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and seasonings in large bowl. Stir in cheese. Set aside. Mix eggs and buttermilk in medium bowl. Add to dry ingredients; stir until well blended. Spread in lightly grease 9-inch round cake pan. Bake 30-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack 10 minutes. Remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack. Tip: This recipe also lends itself well to a muffin version. Prepare dough as directed and divide among 12 greased muffin cups. Bake 2025 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Josh Joplin with Jeffrey Gaines lternative rock mainstay Josh Joplin returns to the stage for an intimate, can’t-miss evening alongside acclaimed singer-songwriter Jeffrey Gaines at My Father’s Place. Joplin spotlights songs from his latest full-length release, GpYr (“gap year”), a deeply personal project that arrives after a 12-year hiatus. It marks a bold new chapter in Joplin’s career. A deeply personal project, it’s an introspective musical journey that, via Joplin’s own experiences, allows us to ponder all of life’s transitions. Jeffrey Gaines brings his own brand of soul-baring musicianship, heralded for his soul-searching lyrics and his powerful live performances. Armed with little more than his voice and an acoustic guitar, He’s built an international following on the strength of his deeply felt lyrics. His stripped-down sets create an atmosphere that is at once intimate and electrifying.

Thursday, March 19, 7:30 p.m. $43. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Celtic Woman

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

Your Neighborhood mar

‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater. • Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook • Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888

Oyster Bay Planning Advisory Board meets The Town of Oyster Bay holds their next Planning Advisory Board meeting. All are welcome to attend. • Where: Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 624-6333

Symphony of Hope This special performance celebrates the power of music to unite people of all faiths and backgrounds. Paganini Competition winner Simon Zhu performs as principal soloist, with rising star Jeffrey Dokken conducting. The program also includes a major work by Long Island composer Alexey Shor, joined by a local choir for an evening of reflection, resilience and hope. Violins of Hope, a collection of restored instruments owned and played by Jewish musicians before and during the Holocaust — some performed in ghettos and concentration camps, others belonging to musicians who did not survive are featured. Proceeds support the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, Molloy University and Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County. • Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m.

CALENDAR melodies in this intimate evening performance on the Adelphi University stage. Surrounded by the soft, warm glow of over 1,000 candles, world champion Irish dancer Scott Doherty and Irish musician Chris Smith, along with their band, bring classic Irish tunes, songs, and stories to life. You’ll be immersed in a one-ofa-kind enchanting atmosphere, filled with the soul-stirring melodies of Ireland, as the beauty of Irish music and the intimacy of candlelight come together in perfect harmony.

mar

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000

Three Italian Tenors

Direct from Rome, the Three Italian Tenors stop at Tilles Center on their North American Tour debut. Everyone will be captivated by Giovanni Maria Palmia, Ugo Tarquini, and Alessandro Fantoni accompanied by pianist Fabrizio Mocata. Their salute to the great Italian tenors — Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Mario Lanza and Enrico Caruso — is an exhilarating and unique musical event. It features original arrangements and universally loved Italian songs and tenor arias, fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style. From “Nessun Dorma” to “O Sole Mio” to “That’s Amore” and more, the trio perform the songs that define Italian musical brilliance. You will be swept away by operatic gems like “E lucevan le stelle, “ “La donna è mobile” and “Nessun dorma,” alongside timeless Neapolitan songs such as “Torna a Surriento,” “’O surdato ’nnammurato” and “Funiculì Funiculà.” Their repertoire also includes romantic ballads like “Musica Proibita” and “Dicitencello vuje,” a tribute to Dean Martin with Volare, and a lively piano medley of popular Italian tunes — all culminating in a thrilling celebration of vocal artistry and Italian musical heritage. You’re sure to be enthralled by the stunning program that voyages through • Where: LIU Post campus, nostalgia with favorite memorable classics. Experience their rich vocals, heartfelt 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville emotion and the golden tradition of Italian vocal artistry. • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100

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

mar Thrift Shop

Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.

• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville • Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • Contact: (631) 789-2569

St. Mary’s Thrift Shop Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. • Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot) • Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. • Contact: (631) 464-4899

Family theater Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. The minute the

Pi Day: Where Math Meets Mayhem! Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a wacky, wonder-filled celebration of everyone’s favorite infinite number! Grab your goggles, get ready for the ultimate Pie Toss Party and help make math history in the messiest, most hilarious way possible. Come for the numbers, stay for the splatter, because at LICM, learning is as fun (and as messy) as you make it! • Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City • Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or (516) 2245800

groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

songs from Judy Garland to Lady Gaga. Please register.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City • Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon; also March 15, March 18-19 • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Science of Spirituality Amityville hosts their annual Women’s Retreat. Regardless of where you are in your life’s journey, learn how to create a lifestyle filled with purpose and joy. Take a day to nurture yourself and find your center of inner strength, peace and love through meditation. These inspirational workshops are designed especially for you. The day includes a complimentary vegetarian lunch. Come for discussion, sisterhood, inspiration and meditation. This event is free but registration required.

• Where: Northside Elementary School and spans about half a mile to the Village Green, 361 Main St., Farmingdale • Time: 2 p.m. • Contact: (516) 249-0093

• Where: 79 County Line Road, Amityville • Time: 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • Contact: (631) 822-7979, sos. org/event/divinebeautyNYmar14/?prev=AmityvilleEN

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.

mar

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Join the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce for their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

• Where: Broadway, Massapequa (between Jerusalem Ave. and Veterans Blvd.) • Time: 11 a.m. • Contact: (516) 541-1443

Women’s History Month Join Sheri Miller at Massapequa Public Library for a concert celebrating Women’s History Month. She performs classic love

• Where: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park • Time: 2-3 p.m. • Contact: massapequalibrary.org or (516) 799-0770

Divine Beauty Women’s Retreat

Candlelight Celtic Bask in the ambience of softglowing candles and Irish

mar

Farmingdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Get your green on and join the community for a great parade and fun celebration in downtown Farmingdale.

Having an event?

S1 03/12

Employment

CLASSIFIED

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

G BUS NOW HIRIN VERS RI AND VAN D

DON’T MISS The Bus!

FEEL LIKE A KING IN QUEENS.

A LICENSED F RCDLBPS EPTEMBER $5000 SIGN ON BONUS FOR ALREADY & CPS DRIVERS!

Big Bus

NEW

$31.68/hr.

Non-Benefit Rate

1339620

Help Wanted 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. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave 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 Why Not Print

choose

RICHNER Printing Services

• Eco friendly facility • Environmentally safe soy based inks • Recycled paper • Help reduce the carbon footprint

Call Lou today at 516-569-4000 ext 223

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

1338726

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 877-8-HOPENY OR TEXT HOPENY (467369). RESORTS WORLD NEW YORK CITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

EMPLOYMENT

Non-Benefit Rate

We Guarantee 30 Hours A Week

or CDL driver bus and Sign On Bonus $5,000.00 van $500.00 for non CDL drivers. f

*Some restrictions may apply.

Will train qualified applicants

EDUCATIONAL BUS TRANSPORTATION

516.454.2300 Call Today!

SCAN TO APPLY NOW.

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

$28.91/hr.

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

Positions available in Nassau and Suffolk Counties Apply At: www.educationalbusjobs.com/ EOE

One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country. Call the USA Classified Network today!

1-800-231-6152

Household Help Offered HOUSEKEEPING/ SENIOR CAREGIVER Available. Private/ Professional. CNA* HHA* CCA Certified. Experienced/ Excellent References. Emma 516-519-0456

Open the door to a bright future! Check the

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 X250

1318134 1333893

Ready to feel like the real deal? Join the winning team at Resorts World New York City. We’re offering big opportunities for experienced, fulltime Game Dealers. Your big break is waiting. Join the at Deal-MeIn.com

Van

Job listings today!

516-569-4000 Press 5

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

HERALD

Market Place • •

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

T&M GREENCARE 223-4525 •

586-3800

1339228

TREE SERVICE

WE BEAT ALL COMPETITORS’ RATES www.greencaretreeservice.com Residential & • TREE REMOVAL Commercial • STUMP GRINDING • PRUNING 1339543

1340151

BOGO 40% OFF + $200 OFF

Your Entire Purchase Minimum purchase of 4 ENDS 3/31

Home Improvement Corp.

631-532-5617 • Cell: 516-996-3036

1340518 1333017

FREE ESTIMATES • Licensed & Insured Masonry • Steps • Driveways Water Proofing • Pointing • Siding Kitchen Remodeling • Roofing PVC Fence • Basements • Windows • Sheetrock & More

tikalhomeimprovement@gmail.com L IC: # H 3711000000

Lowest Rates

Seniors, Veterans, Police & Fireman Discounts

Safety. Style. SPECIAL OFFER Waiving All Stress-Free Installation Installation. Costs!

Minimum purchase of 4

1334838

FREE ESTIMATES

516-540-5944

CALL NOW

516.540.6059

1340133

1331031

Carpentry & Painting Specialist

Residential and Commercial - All Phases

“Anthony & J Home Improvement, Inc.” Also specializes in ★ Kitchens ★ Bathrooms ★ Finished Basements ★ Flooring ★ Repairs ★ Woodwork/mouldings ★ Siding ★ Gutters

516-678-6641– Licensed & Insured

Free estImAtes...call Anthony romeo 1323594

Add'l terms apply. Offer Add’l terms apply. Offer subject to change subject change and vary and varyto by dealer. Expires 12/27/26. dealer. Expires 12/27/26.

CHRIS, RYAN & SAL PEKOFF

MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE OF THE BELLMORES (516) 546-4976 S & M CONCRETE PAVERS • PATIOS • DRIVEWAYS • SIDEWALKS & ALL OTHER CONCRETE WORK CALL OUR EXPERTS FOR ADVICE & FREE ESTIMATES LICENSE & INSURED #H2302040000 | 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS

1339604

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

S3 03/12

NO JOB TOO SMALL OR TOO LARGE

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO HOME OWNER

JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE.. JOBS, MERCHANDISE, It’s in ESTATE the Herald Classifieds... REAL & MORE.. To Advertise Call 516-569-4000 JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE.. JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE.. L IC: #42194- H

press 5

S2 03/12

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

HOME Of tHE WEEK

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

Lido Beach

Prestige Oceanfront Living

Open House: Sunday, March 15 12:00-2:00pm. Lido Towers 2 Richmond Road, Unit 3A.

ido Towers is one of the most prestigious luxury buildings on Long Island. This newly listed oceanfront condo boasts amazing views of the Atlantic and is in a prime central location. It has been completely updated to mint condition, and the kitchen and 2 bathrooms are brand new, offering comfort and luxury to enhance your oceanfront lifestyle. You will enjoy amenities galore in this magnificent complex ~ pool, tennis, pickleball, gym, card room, party room, social gathering room, storage, bike racks, and private beach access with cabana personnel. With proximity to the LIRR, parkways and houses of worship, you can have a Hamptons lifestyle without the commute. Come experience an extraordinary life by the beach!

Tom Tripodi Associate Broker Tripodi | Shemtov Team Douglas Elliman Real Estate 30A West Park Avenue, Long Beach 516.902.3497

Rent Your Apartment

REAL ESTATE Real Estate WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Helping you find a HOME or sell a HOME … a place to call your own. Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!

Call us today!

Your Hometown Newspaper

To Place an Ad Call: 516-569-4000 • Press 5

Q. Are there better times of the year to do construction, and are there cheaper times to do construction? Also, my contractor keeps saying we could save money with smaller lumber, that what is in our plans is “overkill.” Should I opt for smaller lumber? Who decides this? A. There are some benefits to building in milder weather, such as spring and fall, but not because it’s cheaper. Materials respond better when they’re in an environment that isn’t extremely hot or cold. Internal expansion and contraction of materials is hard to control, and so it’s best, for the overall building, to install when the weather is mild. onte eeper Asphalt roof shingles installed in hot weather, for example, can experience micro tears when the material contracts in cold weather. Siding can distort from heat after being installed in cold temperatures. Wood flooring can buckle due to temperature and humidity changes … and on and on. As for cost of construction, if weather were the only factor, it would be simpler to answer that the majority of people would rather not be outdoors working in bad weather. You may get a better deal to do interior work in the winter, but that can vary, based on a bustling economy versus a slow time, when construction companies are trying to keep their employees working for them and being paid. But there are many factors, such as tariffs, material cost fluctuations based on the seasons, fuel cost increases (and decreases), workforce availability and competition. Many skilled workers tell me it’s hard to find the next generation to hire, meaning that you have to pay the workforce you have to stay and train with you. The cost of construction is always going to be cheaper, based on historical observation, in today’s dollars than in the future. Putting off construction projects in the hope of getting a better price has never paid off, it seems. As for deciding what size materials are required, such as beams and wall studs, there are also many factors that go into the decision process of selecting structure, and this is not to be left to opinion, especially for someone who doesn’t have the training to know how these decisions are made. Structural design isn’t arbitrary. The many factors that go into designing a structure include many internal and external forces, and the wrong selection can be disastrous. The general public has to understand that putting materials together in the field, and engineering the many factors that determine a structural system, are very different. Sometimes the choice of a simple roof rafter seems like overkill, and it may actually be, until you consider that the depth of insulation that goes between the structure has to meet a completely different set of criteria. If you can’t pass the energy code, then the smaller structure is not a savings. Taking the structure apart or adding more material just to pass the separate energy code is expensive. Let the design professional, not the assembler, make the decision. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

Homes

HERALD

‘Let the design professional make the decision’

HERALD

Stuff

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

Cable/TV/Wiring

Announcements

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $ 6 0 0 I n G i f t C a r d s . C a l l To d a y ! 1-866-782-4069

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160 SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

Cleaning Services

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

Miscellaneous

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

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

MERCHANDISE MART

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

Antiques/Collectibles

Electricians

DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

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.

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.

FINDS UNDER $100

Handyman

Finds Under $100

PAINTING & HANDYMAN SERVICE

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 Br iggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

BABY'S CHANGE TABLE. Gently used, white, 3 drawers. $15. Lido Beach. (516)705-9398 DRESSER WOOD: W34" D18 1/2" H 30" Walnut, 3 Drawers, Good. $50 S. Freeport 516-279-7696

SERVICES

S4 03/12

Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day!

917-822-0225 Ricky

Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing.

Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000

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

HErald

Crossword Puzzle

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.

1286679

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

Junk Cars Wanted

TOP CA$H PAID

Junk Cars Bought

1286679 NYPA ST LAWRENCE HC 2X2.indd 1

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!

CALL US LAST!

516-766-0000

Check out our Service Directory for all your repair, decorating, party planning, cleaning or moving needs, and much more!

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 DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

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 ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397

NEED A CAR?

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Find it in the HERALD Classifieds.

Autos Wanted

Answers to todAy’s puzzle

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277 DONATE YOUR CAR today, running or not. Support Patriotic Hearts for our Veterans and their Families! Free fast pickup. Max tax deduction. Se habla Español. Call now: 844-415-1229 GET A BREAK on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-484-3467 today! WE BUY 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Fr e e p i c k u p . Fa s t p a y m e n t . C a l l 1-855-403-3374

1/10/25

Public Notices

LMAS1

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26104008 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1912 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793, County of Nassau, f o r o n pre m i s e s consumption at Bellace 104 LLC. 26-42. 3/4, 11 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED L IA B I L I T Y C O M PA N Y. Knowledge JAM79 LLC. Articles o f O r g a n i z at i o n were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on _01_/_20_/_2026_. NY Office location: N a s s a u C o u n t y. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 80 Demille Ave, Elmont NY 11003 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 26-41. 3/4 ,11, 18, 25, 4/1, 8

Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771-1592 TELEPHONE: (516) 624-6232 – FAX: (516) 624-6149 RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman – LOIS S C H M I T T, Vi c e Chair woman – KATHLEEN MULLIGAN REBECCA M. ALESIA –LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI – BRIAN GRIFFIN ********************** ****************** PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on MARCH 19, 2026, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals: BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS APPEAL NO. 25-492 MASSAPEQUA JONATHAN HAUSER: (A) Variance to allow existing shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct second story deck exceeding maximum building coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 62-645 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated December 20, 1962 and amended by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals,

dated June 30, 2011. S/s/o Massachusetts Ave., 65.25 ft. W/o Franklin Ave., a/k/a 130 Massachusetts Ave., Massapequa, NY ---------------------APPEAL NO. 25-493 MASSAPEQUA JOSEPH SHERLOCK: (A) Variance to construct second story addition having less roof pitch than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct two story additions, portico and allow existing shed exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. E/s/o Algonquin Ave., 100 ft. N/o Nassau Rd., a/k/a 88 Algonquin Avenue, Massapequa, NY -----------------------APPEAL NO. 25-497 MASSAPEQUA MELISSA HENAO: (A) Variance to construct one story addition and portico having less average front yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (B) Variance to allow existing wood deck having less side yard setback and aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing pool equipment having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (E) Variance to erect 4 ft. high mesh pool fence having less setback from pool than permitted by Ordinance. E/s/o Division Ave., 230 ft. S/o Clinton Pl., a/k/a 75 Division Avenue, Massapequa, NY ------------------------APPEAL NO. 26-31 MASSAPEQUA A WORLD OF MIRRORS & GLASS, INC.: Variance for

the reduction of offstreet parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 0 when 17 parking spaces are required. N/s/o Merrick Rd., 76.02 ft. W/o Forest Ave., a/k/a 4185 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY ------------------------APPEAL NO. 25-498 NORTH MASSAPEQUA STEPHANIE SANTO: Variance to install above-ground propane tank having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. W/s/o Seneca Dr.. 60 ft. N/o Cheryl Rd., a/k/a 21 Seneca Drive, North Massapequa, NY ----------------------Z O N I N G B OARD OF APPEALS MEETING OF 03/19/26 -----------------------APPEAL NO. 26-50 NORTH MASSAPEQUA CHRISTOPHER SINNONA: (A) Variance to construct second story addition having less side yard setback and aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct one story addition exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (C) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 12-340 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated September 20, 2012. S/s/o N. Atlanta Ave., 170 ft. W/o N. Central Ave., a/k/a 412 N. Atlanta Avenue, North Massapequa, NY -----------------------MARCH 9, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 26-48. 3/11

N o t i c e o f Qualification of BHOGADI M E D I C A L , PLLC, a domestic professional service limited liability company (PLLC). DOS ID: 7838103 Filed with Sec’y of St ate (S SNY ) on 02/12/2026 Principal business address: 16 Middle Neck Road #630, G re at Ne c k , N Y 11021 SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be ser ved & shall mail copy of process to: InCorp Services, Inc., One Commerce Plaza 99 Washington Ave., Suite 805-A, Albany, NY 12210-2822. General Professional Purpose: medical services. 26-39. . 3/4/11, 18, 25, 4/1, 8 Notice of formation of Little Talkers Sp e e ch Therapy, PLLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 01/06/2026 O f f i c e location, Nassau County SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: The PLLC, 61 Briarwood Ln, Plainview, NY 11803 Purpose: any lawful act. 26-46. 3/11, 18, 25, 4/1, 8, 15

Read the legals

Residents who love the beach and want to help protect our shoreline are invited to join Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew Monteleone at the Town’s annual Dune Day on Saturday, March 28th, at 10 a.m. at TOBAY Beach. This hands-on environmental initiative helps stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass, which serves as a natural shield against storm surges and erosion. Strong dunes mean a stronger coastline, helping to protect TOBAY Beach. “Our Dune Stabilization Project brings together volunteers of all ages in a meaningful effort to protect and preserve our beautiful shoreline,” said Supervisor Saladino. “It’s a great opportunity for students, Scouts, and nature lovers to make a real difference while enjoying the outdoors.” Dune Day is a fun and rewarding experience for families, school groups, and environmentally conscious residents. Volunteers will work alongside Town officials and crews, learning firsthand how simple actions can have a lasting impact on coastal preservation. Councilman Monteleone added, “This is a wonderful initiative which brings the community together to make a lasting impact on the environment. The planting of dune grass not only helps protect our beach, but it also builds awareness of the importance of coastal conservation.” No early registration is required - just show up and dig in! For those who want to sign up in advance, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/volunteer. Participants can receive a certificate for their volunteer efforts. For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or email environmental@oysterbay-ny.gov.

Play Ball! 2026 summer softball league registration open in TOBAY Registration is now open for Oyster Bay Town’s Summer Softball Night League, with games scheduled to begin in May 2026. Games will be held at three parks throughout the Town with a season consisting of 10 weeks of regularly scheduled double headers (20 games total) plus playoffs and championships. Residents and non-residents alike are welcome to sign up for the softball league. Players must be 18 years of age and older. “The Town’s Summer Softball Night League is a fun and competitive league that provides a great opportunity for both residents and non-residents to enjoy their love of the game and appreciate some of our wonderful Town parks and facilities,” said Supervisor Jospeh Saladino. “So, get your team together and take advantage of one of the Town’s most popular programs!” Games begin in May and will be held at 3 different locations: •John J. Burns Park, 4990 Merrick Road in Massapequa •Ellsworth Allen Park, 45 Motor Avenue in Farmingdale •Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, 175 Washington Avenue in Plainview Registration is currently available at oysterbaytown.com/ sports. The fee is $850 per team, and each team is responsible for liability and accidental insurance as well as umpire fees. Umpire fees are paid in cash to the umpires at the start of each game. Each team will sign up for one of three divisions: A, B, or C, with A being the most advanced. Teams interested in more information can call the Town of Oyster Bay’s Parks Department, Recreation Division at (516) 797-7945.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

NOTICE OF FORMATION of Bedrock Security Group LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/04/2026. Office location: Nassau C o u n t y. S S N Y designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 300 Nassau St, Bellmore, NY, 11710. Purpose: any lawful act. 26-37. 2/25, 3/ 4, 11, 18, 25, 4/1

Dune Planting in Oyster Bay, March 28

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

Public Notices

Spring fitness classes open NOTICE OF SPE- in the Library (address brary (address above) place is substantially Notice of Self Storage at Hicksville Athletic Center CIAL DISTRICT above) between the on Tuesday, March impaired by reasons Sale LMAS2

MEETING OF THE FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY BU D G E T VO T E A N D T RU S T E E ELECTION APRIL 14, 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Special Meeting of the qualified voters of the Farmingdale Union Free School District of the Towns of Oyster Bay and Babylon, Nassau and Suffolk Counties, New York, will be held at the Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale, New York (the “Library”) on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, for the purpose of voting upon the following items: • To adopt the annual budget of the Farmingdale Public Library for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District; and • To elect one (1) member to the Library Board of Trustees for a five (5) year term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2031, as a result of the expiration of the term presently held by Laura Ulric. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Librar y Board of Trustees will hold a public information meeting for the purposes of discussion of the proposed 20262027 Library Budget on March 31, 2026 at 6:00pm, in the Library (address above). All residents of the Library District are invited to attend. A copy of the proposed Library Budget, together with the text of any resolution to be presented to the voters, may be obtained

hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. beginning March 31, 2026, except Sunday or holidays. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Library Trustee shall be filed in the Library Business Office, located within the Library (address above) between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., not later than 5:00pm on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Each candidate must be a qualified voter of the Library District, and must reside in the area served by the Library. Each petition shall be directed to the Clerk of the Library Vote; must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Board of Registration will meet for the purpose of conducting a registration of all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law at the Li-

31, 2026 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Anyone who is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the register is prepared shall have their name added to the register. The register of voters will be filed in the Library Business Office (address above), where it will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on each of the five days prior to April 14, 2026, excluding Sundays and holidays, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that applications for early mail and absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours in the Library Business Office beginning March 16, 2026. Completed applications must be received in the Library Business Office at least seven (7) days before the election, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Early mail and absentee ballots must be received by the Clerk of the Library Vote (located in the Library) not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. A list of persons to whom early mail and absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Library Business Office on each of the five days prior to the vote, except Sundays and holidays, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that a qualified voter whose ability to appear personally at the polling

of permanent illness or physical disability and whose registration record has been marked “permanently disabled” by the Board of Elections pursuant to the provisions of the Education Law shall be entitled to receive an absentee ballot without making separate applications therefore. FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Library District. Military voters who are qualified voters of the Library District may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot applications must be received in the Library Business Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is received by the Library Business Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election. Copies of this notice and other election information are available in Spanish and English at www.farmingdalelibrary.org. Dated: Farmingdale, New York February 3, 2026 By Order of the BOARD OF TRUSTEES FA R M I N G DA L E PUBLIC LIBRARY Farmingdale, New York C H R I S TA LU CARELLI, Director 26-36. 2/25, 3/11, 25, 4/9

Please take notice Safeguard Self Stor age # 1 9 01 13 located at 6000 Sunrise Highway Ma s s ap e q u a N Y 11758 intends to hold a sale of the property stored in the below listed Storage Spaces. The public sale shall occur as an online auction via www. storagetreasures. com on 3/26/2026 at 10:30AM. Unless listed below, the contents consist of household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Camille Clarke Unit #3465; Regina Ragusa Unit #1409; Ari Rodriguez Unit #1765. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. S ee manager for details. 26-47 3/11, 18 Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26104362 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned t o s e l l l i q u o r, b e e r, w i n e , a n d cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage C ontrol L aw at 640 S Broadway, Unit 2, Hicksville, NY 11801, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at COCA BAR & GRILL LLC. 26-49. 3/11, 18

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26104739 for liquor, b e e r, w i n e , a n d cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage C ontrol L aw at 1810 Merrick Road, Merrick, NY 11566, County of Nassau, for on pre m i s e s consumption a t E L B A HOSPITALITY INC. 26-50. 3/11, 18

Registration begins March 4 for Town of Oyster Bay residents

Registration opens March 4 for the Town of Oyster Bay’s spring co-ed fitness classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center. The 10-week programs begin in late March and April and are open to adults 18 and older. Classes include cardio kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, ballroom dancing and gentle movement and meditation. “Our great spring programs provide a fun, energizing way for residents to stay active while joining with friends or meeting new people,” Town Councilman Tom Hand said. “After a long and cold winter, residents can participate in a variety of activities, including Cardio Kick-boxing, Yoga, Zumba, Pilates and Ballroom Dancing.” This season’s schedule includes: Ballroom Dancing: Saturdays, 7 to 8 p.m., starting April 4 Cardio Kickboxing: Thursdays, 8 to 9 p.m., starting April 2 Pilates: Mondays, 8 to 9 p.m., starting March 30 Yoga: Sundays, 8:45 to 9:45 a.m., starting March 29 Tuesdays, 8 to 9 p.m., starting March 31 Thursdays, 7 to 8 a.m., starting April 2 Saturdays, 9 to 10 a.m., starting April 4 Zumba: Mondays, 6:45 to 7:45 p.m., starting March 30 Wednesdays, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., starting April 1 Saturdays, 7:45 to 8:45 a.m., starting April 4 Gentle Movement & Meditation: Tuesdays, 7 to 8 a.m., starting April 7 Saturdays, 8:15 to 9:15 p.m., starting April 4 Registration for town residents begins Wednesday, March 4, at 5 p.m. Non-residents may register beginning Wednesday, March 11, at 9 a.m. The fee is $75 for Town of Oyster Bay residents and $100 for nonresidents. Residents who have not previously used the town’s online registration portal must upload proof of residency, such as a tax or utility bill, along with a valid photo ID. Participants must bring their own mats for yoga, Pilates, cardio kickboxing and gentle movement and meditation classes. Registration is available at oysterbaytown.com/sports. For more information, call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov. Class schedules are subject to change, and make-up sessions will be scheduled if necessary.

Meet some local scholars... The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges: •The following students were recently named to the President’s List at SUNY Cortland: Angelina Cracco of Massapequa, Psychology; Caitlyn Dorman of Massapequa Park, Healthcare Management; Julia Gagliano of Massapequa, Inclusive Education Childhood; Kayla Gaynor of Farmingdale, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Giuliana Gorgone of Massapequa Park, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Nathan Hellman of Massapequa, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Holland Murphy of Massapequa, Inclusive Education Childhood; Leah O’Loughlin of Massapequa Park, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Emily Passanante of Massapequa, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Giada San Filippo of Massapequa, Inclusive Education Childhood; Michael Santospirito of Massapequa, Adolescence Education: Social Studies; Felicia Scudder of Farmingdale, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Carly Stephens of Farmingdale, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Catherine Stork of Massapequa Park, Inclusive Education Childhood; Anne Taylor of Massapequa, Adolescence Education: Mathematics (WAIT); Olivia Walters of Massapequa, Early Childhood and Childhood Education B-6; Kimberly Westenberg of Massapequa Park, Adolescence EducBiology; and Samantha Zerbo of Massapequa, Inclusive Education Childhood.

opinions

he U.S. men’s hockey team’s 2-1 sudden death, overtime win over Canada to win the Olympic gold medal set off a wave of patriotism that few people anticipated. There was, of course, the usual hope of victory when the Americans won their first four games in Italy. That hope increased when they advanced to the final against Canada, the clear favorite. It wasn’t a David vs. Goliath match like the fabled 1980 Miracle on Ice, in which an American team comprising a bunch of amateur college kids defeated the Soviet Union, which was acknowledged to be the overwhelming favorite. But this year’s gold medal game, too, was an instant classic. The winning goal came less than two minutes into overtime on a rocket-like shot by Jack Hughes. There was exultation among the American fans in the arena, and the many millions watching on TV across the country. On the ice, the players were euphoric, overcome with absolute joy. The exuberant Hughes topped it all off

by giving credit to his teammates and exclaiming, “I love the USA. I’m so proud to be an American!” His words were obviously genuine and sincere — a raw, unfiltered expression of Americanism that would have had a visceral impact on many Americans at any event. But they came against the backdrop of other American Olympians criticizing the United States and President Trump. The attacks by these athletes against their own country on foreign soil, at an international event, infuriated and disappointed countess Americans regardless of whether or not they supported the president. The reaction of many progressives in politics and the media was that these statements were merely free speech. No one, of course, was denying that the athletes had the right to say what they did. But just because you have the right to say something doesn’t make it right. Nor should you say it in another country, when you’re representing the United States. Whenever I traveled overseas as a congressman, I never said a critical word about my country or the president, whether he was Democrat or Republi-

can. I believe that politics stops at the water’s edge. Besides, I can think of no country that offers more opportunity for more people or has done more good for the world than the United States. For whatever the reasons, the several days after the Olympics ended saw a wave of unabashed patriotism and expressions of love of country spread across the land. It peaked when Trump presented the hockey team at his State of the Union address. And then Hughes got a heartwarming welcome when he returned to play his first home game for the New Jersey Devils. Unfortunately, there were the naysayers. An op-ed in The New York Times claimed that the American had allowed themselves to be politicized, and had gone from heroes to zeros. The genesis of the criticism of the players was their acceptance of Trump’s invitation to visit the White House and be his guests at the State of the Union. The invitation had been made by way of FBI Director Kash Patel, who had celebrated with the players in the locker room and held his phone so they could hear Trump’s congratulations. The president’s call to the locker room was described as a political intru-

obody complained about Herb Brooks’s chat with Jimmy Carter in 1980.

sion, though it’s customary for presidents to make such calls. When President Jimmy Carter called to congratulate the 1980 gold medal winners, Coach Herb Brooks not only accepted the call, but also told Carter he supported his controversial decision to boycott that summer’s Olympics in Moscow. Back then there wasn’t a word of complaint from the media. Though Trump also invited the American women’s gold medal-winning hockey team to the White House and the State of the Union, he was assailed for prefacing the invite with the friendly jibe, “I guess I have to invite the women.” Talk about political correctness run amuck! Lighten up! Similarly, there was the criticism that the men were the object of more public acclaim than the women, ignoring the fact that the women’s team had been favored from the start and has now won three gold medals since 1998, while the men hadn’t won in 46 years. We must put aside stridency and needless political division to enjoy such moments of national patriotism, and celebrate that we are fortunate to live in the greatest nation in the history of the world. USA! Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Writing the history of our lives in small print

s the Nassau Herald marks its centennial, I hope to light at least one candle on the birthday cake. I have been opinionator-in-residence for over four decades, in addition to my duties as editor for many years. That would be roughly 2,236 columns. A while ago I reconciled to the fact that when you write a column for 40-something years, some will be good, most will be good enough and some will miss the mark — any mark. And very occasionally, you hit one out of the park. I have written every week, through the ’80s, ’90s and and up to today, commenting on the news and chronicling my kids’ school years, our family vacations in the wilds of Montana, the life and times of our dogs and the adventures of my good-natured husband, who has tolerated my writing about everything from his red golf pants to his ongoing fight with pancreatic cancer. A longtime weekly column becomes a

history of its time. I wrote in heavy black ink about the World Trade Center attacks, Hurricane Sandy, presidential elections, fashion trends, diets and riots, and with a finer-tipped pen I wrote about my family, eventually including eulogies for my mother and father and more than one friend. My column has been my space to figure out what I think about this world and how to be a good neighbor in our community. I’ve tried to use my 750 words each week to promote serious debate. My outlook, supporting diversity and women’s rights, reflects what I believe. Not everyone agrees, and I have the letters to prove it. In recent years, some have gotten ugly, like so much dark current flowing through our media. I can recall, at the beginning of my newspaper career, cutting and pasting printed stories on boards, each one a page of the paper. If the story didn’t fit, you just cut a paragraph or two from the bottom. Thus the importance of the first sentence or two, known as the lede, and the first three paragraphs, which basically told the story. I was hired away from the late South Shore Record, owned by the indomitable

Florence Schwartzberg, by Leatrice Spanierman, the Herald’s brilliant editor in chief and a natural news writer. Leatrice was socially, intellectually and emotionally intertwined with the Herald brand. We turned out big local papers in those days at our Lawrence headquarters. Our team wrote 10 to 20 local stories every week, and our motto was, “Everything that happens anywhere in the world has a Five Towns angle.” And it was true. If a ship hit an iceberg in Antarctica, for sure there was someone who knew someone on board. This is all to say that local newspapers are essential to a functioning democracy, and I am grateful to have enjoyed this golden age of local journalism. This is also to say that across the country, small papers are closing. The loss of a reliable local news source has many consequences for a community. One is the inability to monitor the actions of government agencies and elected officials. Subscribe to and read and advertise in our papers. We need to mind what’s going on in our schools, and to do that we need reporters to monitor the board meetings, and to do that we need to pay

verything that happens anywhere in the world has a local angle.

them. Local papers cover everything from potholes to parades. The obituaries are their guiding light, reflecting a community’s past, reminding us of the special ties that bind friends and neighbors together. When you wanted the scoop on how the blizzards of 2026 affected our schools and roadways, you read about it in the Herald. Wonder why the athletic fields at Lawrence High School are still closed? Want to know what Peter King said about “bipartisanship”? Do you know which Long Beach native won gold at the Olympics? Open the Herald. If you have property tax grievances or worry about the electric grid in your area, read the Herald and find the facts you need to better understand the issues facing Long Islanders now. The dailies look at news through a wide-angle lens; our focus is narrow. I love being a part of this news-gathering and opinion-formulating enterprise. From my perch, I focus inward, on family and life issues, and sometimes outward, on the political and social forces that unite and divide us. It’s a wonderful job, getting to tell the ongoing story of our American democracy. Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

A heart-stopping hockey victory was marred by politics

Herald editorial

Massapequa

HERALD March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

pOsT

Ira L. Cahn - Founder Established 1951

Incorporating Massapequa Post in 2024 CaroLyn James Associate Publisher / Editor

Donna Consola JessiCa Kleiman maryann Heins Multi Media Marketing Consultants offiCe 2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Fax: (516) 569-4942 Web: www.liherald.com E-mail: masseditor@liherald.com Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Cliff Richner Publisher, 1982-2018

Robert Richner Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ sTUarT rIChner Publisher BradLey m. harmon Chief Operating Officer BrIan CorCoran Chief Financial Officer

■ Jeffrey Bessen

Managing Editor Jordan VaLLone

Deputy Managing Editor JIm harmon

Copy Editor Karen BLoom Features/Special Sections Editor Tony BeLLIssImo Sports Editor TIm BaKer Photo Editor ■ rhonda GLICKman Vice President - Sales amy amaTo Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events LorI BerGer Sales Director eLLen reynoLds Classified / Inside Sales Director ■ Jeffrey neGrIn Creative Director Lynn domond Production Designer roBIn CarTer Art Director CraIG Cardone Production Coordinator ■ dIanne ramdass Circulation Director ■ heraLd CommUnITy neWsPaPers Amityville Herald Record Babylon Herald Beacon Baldwin Herald Bellmore Herald East Meadow Herald Franklin Square/Elmont Herald Freeport Herald Glen Cove Herald Hempstead Beacon Long Beach Herald Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald Malverne/West Hempstead Herald Massapeqa Herald Post Merrick Herald Nassau Herald Oceanside/Island Park Herald Oyster Bay Herald Rockaway Journal Rockville Centre Herald Sea Cliff/Glen Head Herald Seaford Herald South Shore Record Uniondale Herald Beacon Valley Stream Herald Wantagh Herald

memBer:

America’s Newspapers Empire State Local News Coalition Local Media Association New York Press Association Press Club of Long Island Amityville Chamber of Commerce

Published by richner Communications, Inc. 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 LIHerald.com (516) 569-4000

Hundreds of students are sick, unseen, left behind

hat if we told you that in every school district across Long Island, an average of 200 students are silently suffering from a condition that has left them barely able to get out of bed? That these children miss school at more than twice the rate of their peers? That they are twice as likely to struggle to learn, concentrate and remember? What if we told you that these students suffer from depression at three times the rate of their healthy schoolmates? That, unlike the flu, their illness doesn’t dissipate with rest and time, and in many cases gets worse? That it can take months or years for a family to find a doctor who understands the disorder — and that when they do, that doctor often has no treatment to offer? If we told you a crisis of that scale was playing out in every Long Island school district, you would expect emergency meetings of school boards, action from Albany and, at minimum, that someone in a position of authority was paying attention. Yet, tragically, this crisis is real, and almost no one is paying attention. An estimated 25,000 children across Long Island are living with long Covid — the little-understood condition that develops when a Covid-19 infection does not fully resolve. Formally known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2, it is defined as symptoms that persist or newly arise more than three months after infection — and many of the 23 million Americans with long Covid have been suffering for over half a decade. “Long haulers” experience a unique combination of more than 200 potential symptoms, including crushing fatigue, brain fog, heart palpitations, pain with

no clear origin, and immune dysfunction that standard blood tests cannot detect. The National Institutes of Health’s RECOVER Initiative determined that roughly 4 percent of children who contracted Covid-19 later develop the condition — translating to 200 students per district in Long Island’s 125 school districts. And because Covid continues to circulate, new cases are being added every day. Harvard economists have estimated the total cost of long Covid to the United States at $3.7 trillion. For a family with a seriously affected child, navigating years of visits to specialists, lost parental income and insurance companies that routinely deny claims, the financial burden can easily reach six figures. This is not a minor post-pandemic inconvenience. It is one of the largest ongoing public health and economic crises in American history. A situation of this magnitude should be impossible to miss. School boards should have data. Superintendents should have plans. Doctors should have answers. Instead, these children are largely invisible — and the reasons are worth understanding. Long Covid carries no definitive diagnostic test, its symptoms overlap with conditions doctors are quicker to define, and families often spend a year or more cycling through specialists without answers. Many of these families suffer quietly at home, unaware of others going through the same thing, with no community, no organized voice, no constituency demanding to be heard. Parents describe a particular kind of helplessness. They watch a child who was active, engaged and social withdraw from everything that once defined them. They fight insurance companies, drain

letters News literacy should be required in schools To the Editor: As a superintendent and a proud educator for over 25 years, I couldn’t agree more with the editorial in the Feb. 26-March 4 issue, “Long Island students need news literacy.” In fact, I believe it should be mandated in all K-12 school districts. In today’s digital world, especially in the age of A.I., where fake images and misleading headlines often come across as “authentic,” developing strong news literacy skills is more important than ever. With a competitive 24-hour “breaking news” cycle coupled with the constant flow of social media feeds, the singular, more traditional news sources are long gone. Now audiences, including young and impressionable adolescents, often rely on media outlets and websites that may be unverified or deceptive.

savings and search online late at night for anything that might help. They sometimes pursue ineffective — and dangerous — therapies offered by unscrupulous people preying on their desperation. More than anything, they wait for a return to normalcy that medicine has not yet figured out how to deliver. Teachers watch capable students quietly disappear. The hand that was always first in the air goes still, and half-done work replaces finished assignments. Without the training to recognize the symptoms of long Covid, too many educators mistake it for disengagement or a behavioral problem. It is neither. Children are being left behind in ways that cannot always be recovered — the reading level never reached, the travel team never made, the Homecoming never attended, the college essay never written. Childhood has a timeline, and long Covid does not respect it. If your child has been struggling since a Covid infection — however mild or even asymptomatic — long Covid may be the explanation no one has yet offered. Ask your pediatrician. Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital, Northwell Health and Stony Brook University Hospital all have long Covid clinics — worldclass resources waiting to help, right in our backyard. This Sunday, March 15, is Long Covid Awareness Day. But awareness without action is futile. So let’s commit to making this the year long Covid gets the recognition, coverage and funding it so sorely needs. Our children deserve nothing less. Are you or your child suffering from long Covid? We want to hear your story, which we will keep anonymous. Email us at longcovid@liherald.com.

opinions

or the past two months, many skeptics of the administration of New york City Mayor Zohran Mamdani have been anticipating an exodus of residents because of the new mayor’s policies. For now, anyone who tells you that people are leaving New york City in droves is indulging in wishful thinking. But it’s useful to examine Mamdani’s short history to see what he’s doing and whether there are any warning signs ahead. First of all, it’s worth talking about trends when it comes to people leaving the city and the state. Overall, the state is losing population due to the high cost of living and people’s desire to live in warmer climates. in the case of New york City, the only numbers available to date are from July 2024. At that point the city had gained 87,000 new residents in the previous year, the result, demographers explained, of a combination of an increase in the birth rate and wealthy

people from other parts of the world continuing to come to the Big Apple. The international arrivals are the well-to-do who buy high-cost apartments and buildings. Take a trip to Manhattan’s 57th Street and you’ll find towering buildings with breathtaking Central Park views. New york is a very attractive place for these bigmoney people who can’t find the kind of attractions they’re seeking in their native countries. Mamdani has appointed many people who have had previous government experience at the federal and state level. his first deputy mayor, Dean Fuleihan, was my chief of staff in the Assembly when i was chair of the Ways and Means Committee, and the budget director for Mayor Bill de Blasio. Fuleihan is smart, and knows the city’s fiscal issues. The mayor was fortunate to be able to keep Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, and she’ll stay as long as he doesn’t meddle in police operations. The recent snowstorms were a big test for Mamdani, but by the second big storm, last month, the cleanup was a lot smoother. Snowstorms have always

Letters The ability to critically analyze and question the information we encounter is no longer optional; it’s an essential life skill. This is why the Baldwin Union Free School District has implemented a robust news and media literacy curriculum for several years now. Beginning in sixth grade, news literacy skills are embedded into our middle and high school social studies and English coursework. Our high school seniors are also required to complete College Civics and News Literacy, a dual-credit course through our partnership with Stony Brook University’s Center for News Literacy. We even hosted a workshop to educate parents about misinformation, since becoming news-literate is important for everyone. News literacy is much more than distinguishing between true and false. Students acquire skills to identify credible sources and misinformation, recognize bias, assess evidence and sources, and critically evaluate the influence of media on individuals and society, including online “trolls.” Teaching these skills in our classrooms prepares students not only for higher education and future careers but also to become thoughtful, informed citizens who are trusted sources of information.

been a big deal in the city, and especially since the days of Mayor John Lindsay. After the first major snowstorm of his administration, the city failed to plow any streets in Queens, and that damaged Lindsay’s reputation for years. And de Blasio had a horrific first snowstorm experience when he decided to keep the plows out of key sections of Manhattan. The most important issue facing the mayor is his multi-billion-dollar budget deficit. Mamdani has suggested that the state allow the city to tax the earnings of millionaires and billionaires, but that proposal has gotten a cold shoulder from gov. Kathy hochul, who’s running for re-election this year. in the past few weeks, a number of progressive groups have been in Albany, pushing for that increase, but any legislation that creates such a tax is sure to be vetoed by the governor. Since the mayor began talking about the deficit, the state has found an extra $1.4 billion that will help the city. One new proposal that would help raise at least another $1 billion is to add more parking meters around the city. That

ut what will a 34-yearold, first-term mayor have to do to balance the budget?

Framework by Tim Baker

ANThONy MigNELLA Superintendent, Baldwin Union Free School District

Comments about our stories? Send a letter to the editor to execeditor@liherald.com.

At last month’s inaugural WInterfest — Rockville Centre

idea might not be very popular, but it’s better than the mayor’s proposed 9.5 percent citywide increase in the real estate tax. There is some support from Albany progressives for the idea, but it would have to get through both houses of the Legislature. So what will a 34-year-old, first-term mayor have to do to balance the budget? There is such a thing as cutting some expenditures, though that hasn’t been attempted by any recent mayors. The 2025 city budget was an estimated $112.4 billion. having chaired a legislative fiscal committee, i believe that an honest effort should be made to trim some unnecessary spending in order to persuade the state to help close the city’s budget gap. At this point there hasn’t been any so-called “Mamdani effect.” There are lots of things that could happen, but so far, so good. When you manage a government as large as New york City’s, however, there are many land mines ahead, any one of which could do a new, young mayor in. 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.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — March 11, 2026

For now, New York City is alive and well

March 11, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

Mount Sinai South Nassau is proud to be named a high performing hospital in heart attack and heart failure by U.S. News & World Report® year after year. Our comprehensive heart care, including award-winning expertise in minimally invasive treatments to address blockages, has made us the premier choice for cardiac care on the South Shore. Cardiac surgeons from the world-renowned Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in Manhattan also now see patients at our Oceanside campus for pre and post operative evaluation and rehabilitation. The Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital at The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 2 in the nation for Cardiology, Heart, and Vascular Surgery by U.S. News & World Report®, outranking every cardiac program on the South Shore. Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau

1338247

High Performing Heart Care, Right Here on the South Shore