Massapequa Herald 04_08_2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

HERALD Massapequa

Also serving Farmingdale, Massapequa, Massapequa Park and Plainedge

“Freezin’ for a

By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent

TOBAY Beach turned into a hub of high-energy fundraising and icy determination on the morning of March 28 as more than 600 participants took the plunge during the 13th annual “Freezin’ for a Reason” Polar Plunge, benefiting Special Olympics New York.

Despite temperatures in the 30s and Atlantic waters hovering around 40 degrees, “plungers” from across the region gathered in support of year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

According to Special Olym-

Manslaughter verdict in NYPD Diller’s death

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Deliberations in the trial of the man accused of killing NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller were thrown into confusion Wednesday April 1 after a juror rejected an announced verdict in open court, forcing the panel back to resume discussions.

The eight men and four women jurors had indicated to the court that they reached a verdict after roughly four hours of deliberations in the case against 35-year-old Guy Rivera, an ex-convict

charged in connection with Diller’s 2024 killing during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway, Queens.

In court, the foreperson initially read a split verdict, finding Rivera not guilty of first-degree murder but guilty of first-degree aggravated manslaughter, attempted murder, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

But when Supreme Court Justice Michael Aloise directed that the jury be polled individually, Juror No. 5 responded “No” when asked if the announced verdict was CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Reason” Polar Plunge draws more than 600 to TOBAY Beach

pics New York Director of Development Rebecca Hoffman, the event raised $140,000 this year.

Leading the fundraising effort was CSEA Region 1, which contributed $30,000, followed by the Nassau County Police Department’s 3rd Precinct with $18,567. Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino welcomed par-

ticipants to the beach and joined in the plunge himself, offering remarks before entering the water.

“We love you, we appreciate you, and I’ll be going in the water with you,” Saladino said. “I just want to let you know that Oyster Bay is the best Town in America, because of every resident, every union member,

every friend, every visitor, every cop.”

The event coincided with Saladino’s 65th birthday, which was marked on-site with a cake presentation from Hoffman and the event’s Polar Plunge mascot.

Joining the Supervisor in the water were Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder and Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Laura Maier, whose Jersey

Mike’s location served as one of the event’s sponsors.

Also in attendance were Town Councilmen Tom Hand and Lou Imbroto, and Town Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, who remained dry while showing support from the shoreline.

The Nassau County Police Department’s Bureau of Special Operations led participants into the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

File photo courtesy of Oyster Bay Town

Stephanie Diller, wife of Police Officer Jonathan Diller, announced a scholarship in her husband’s name last year to honor his memory,

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joe Saladino

Queens jury finds Rivera guilty of manslaughter Some within community angered by decision

his. The response halted the proceedings immediately and prompted the judge to instruct jurors that any verdict must be unanimous under New York law.

Diller, 31, a member of the NYPD’s 105th Precinct, was killed on March 25, 2024, during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway. According to testimony and prior reporting, Diller and his partner were approaching a vehicle when an occupant inside opened fire. Diller was struck in the torso. His partner returned fire, striking the suspect. Diller was rushed to St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The courtroom moment last weekdrew an emotional reaction from Diller’s widow, Stephanie Diller, who was present as the jury’s announcement unraveled.

After being sent back to deliberate, jurors submitted notes asking how long they would need to continue if they remained deadlocked. Another note requested time for a juror to cancel a personal appointment, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the panel’s progress.

Earlier in the day, jurors had requested to review video evidence of the shooting and asked for a readback of legal instructions defining the elements required to convict Rivera on the top charges.

Rivera faced multiple counts stemming from the fatal encounter. Defense attorneys have argued the prosecution failed to prove intent required for the most serious charges, while prosecutors contend the evidence shows a violent and unlawful shooting during a police encounter.

Deliberations continued until they reached the unimous verdict of manslaughter.

Meanwhile reaction in Massapequa where Diller and his family lived was more decisive.

“Shooting a law enforcement officer and killing that officer should be a capital offense,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is the Republican candidate for governor. “The laws of our state need to be amended so that legal loopholes do not frustrate the fullest prosecution and punishment of cop killers. Our hearts go out to the Diller family on this very disappointing verdict.”

“This should make us angry,” said NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso of Massapequa Park. “Detective Jonathan Diller was an outstanding member of the NYPD, a dedicated father and husband and a member of our community in Massapequa Park. We will continue to pray for his family and for law enforce-

ment across the state.”

Craig Garland, a retired New York City Police Officer and Massapequa resident, said anyone who takes the life of a police officer should receive the harshest penalty.

“This goes to the heart because I am retired NYPD.” said Garland. “Jonathan was just doing his job, trying to protect residents and trying to be a good husband and father and has his life taken away by some piece of....It is hard to believe that a jury does not see the facts of the case and that he is not incarcerated for the rest of his days.”

He added that politicians today must

ensure through the law that these criminals are held accountable. “We owe it to the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect the public—and to their families,” he said.

The Massapequa community came together and held a memorial in Massapequa Park in the name of NYPD officer Jonathan Dillerin 2024.

Officer Jonathan Diller.

Local libraries set dates for budget votes and trustee elections

Residents to head to the polls on April 14 and May 19

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

Public libraries serve as community hubs, offering free access to books, technology, programs and meeting space. As annual budget votes and trustee elections approach, residents will weigh funding levels that determine programming, staffing and services.

Libraries remain among the most heavily used public institutions, supporting needs ranging from early literacy and student homework help to job search assistance and digital access for those without home internet.

Budget votes typically decide whether library tax levies will increase or remain flat, directly affecting hours, collections, technology upgrades and community programming such as children’s story hours, senior services and meeting spaces for local groups.

Trustee elections also shape longterm direction, as board members oversee policy, fiscal planning and strategic priorities. Supporters say stable funding helps maintain free access to resources, while advocates for restraint point to property tax concerns.

In communities across Long Island, library votes are often decided by rela-

tively small margins, underscoring the importance of turnout. The following information outlines local budgets and trustee elections. Residents are encouraged to review proposed budgets in advance to understand how changes may affect services and tax bills in the coming year.

AMITYVILLE

The vote is April 14 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the library, 19 John St., Amityville. The phone number is (631) 264-0567.

The library is proposing a tax levy of $3.77 million, an increase from the current budget of $3.59 million — a 4.9 percent increase.

“The Library Board of Trustees worked diligently to hold this year’s operating budget increase to 2%,” said Todd Schlitt, library director. “The remaining increase — bringing the total tax levy to approximately 4.9% — is attributable solely to debt service payment on the previously voterapproved capital bond. To further offset the impact on taxpayers, the Board is once again applying $200,000 in reserves toward this year’s levy.”

Running for seats in an at large election in Amityville are Equasia YardJean, Robert Brachman, Lauren Scanlon and Karen Klein. One seat is a five-year seat currently held by Eileen

Taylor who is not seeking reelection and the other is a one-year term currently held by Leslie Kretz who is stepping down.

The candidate who gets the highest number of votes will assume the fiveyear seat while the candidate with the second highest number of votes will get the one-year seat.

Scanlon, Yard-Jean and Brachman were not available for an interview. Their biographies are on the Amityville Library website at amityvillelibrary. org.

Klein served as a library trustee and board president seven years ago but stepped down when she went back to school to earn a master’s degree. Now, having completed degrees in information science, she said she would like to get more involved with the library as a board member again.

“I have been a library patron my entire life, since I was old enough to have a library card,” said Klein. “Now that I am retired I have more time and would like to help get the library’s renovations project moving forward; I believe my qualifications are appropriate.”

FARMINGDALE

The vote is April 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale. The phone number is

(516) 249-9090. The library is proposing a $4.23 million budget, an increase from $4.15 million. The plan is within the New York State Tax Cap.

There are no new initiatives or other propositions on the ballot.

Incumbent trustee Laura Ulric is seeking reelection and is running unopposed.

MASSAPEQUA

The library will hold its budget vote and trustee election May 19 in conjunction with the school district vote. Budget information is not yet complete.

For more information, go to massapequalibrary.org.

PLAINEDGE

The vote is May 19 at the high school gymnasium, 241 Wyngate Dr., Massapequa, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The phone number is (516) 735-4133.

The library is proposing a $2.94 million budget, an increase from $2.89 million. The plan is within the New York State Tax Cap.

There are no new initiatives or other propositions on the ballot.

Laura Oden-Bell is seeking another five-year term and is unopposed.

For more information, go to plainedgelibrary.org.

Massapequa BOE honors winter champions, highlights historic athletic season

By MIKE POLANSKY

Senior Correspondent

The Massapequa Board of Education recognized standout achievements from the district’s winter athletic programs during its March 19 meeting, honoring three varsity teams that captured major titles in the 2025–2026 season.

The varsity wrestling team secured the New York State Championship, while the girls indoor track and field team and the gymnastics team each claimed Nassau County titles in their respective sports.

Individual accomplishments were also highlighted, beginning with Martina Dalmas, who won the Nassau County air rifle championship — the first Massapequa competitor to do so since 1995.

The program was led by Superintendent Dr. William Brennan and High School Physical Education and Athletics Chair Brian Rath. Brennan described the year as exceptional for Massapequa athletics, citing a wide range of team and individual successes across the fall and winter seasons. According to Brennan, district athletes have achieved 14 playoff qualifications, five conference championships, 10 county finalist finishes, six county titles, nine individual county

ATHLETES RECEIVING CERTIFICATES

Giovanni Addona, Nicholas Alini, Luke Anderson, Milton Aparicio, Andrew Beadle, Joseph Brooks, Matthew Carpentieri, Luke Condela, Kieran Connolly, Jacob Cuthbert, Kevin Daniel, Jonathan Davis, Kellan Demeri, Johnny DiGiorgio, Daniel Donohue, Sean Durnin, Michael Farwell, Jandy Fernandez, Andrew Fregara, Jason Gautreaux, Brady Gil, Quinn Hartmann, Ethan Kaminskey, Ryan Knapp, Michael LaBella, Owen Leisen, Andrew Manzi, Sean McCahon, Liam McCann, Jaxon McDonough, Lucas Moehringer, James Mulhern, Michael Murphy, Thomas Neubauer, Jake Nieto, William Ramsawak, Daniel Riddle, Kolby Roberts, Nicholas Scannapieco, Danny Schiereck, Tristan Tarasi, Kai Tiringer, Tanner Tutku, & Johnny Tutku, Nicholas Vultaggio, Daniel Walsh, & Matthew Wipperman.

INDIVIDUAL WRESTLING TEAM HONORS

County Champions: John Tutko (110 pounds), Jake Nieto (130 pounds), Kai Tiringer (150 pounds), Joseph Brooks (157 pounds) and James Mulhern (285 pounds).

INDIVIDUAL COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS

John Tutko (110 pounds), Jake Nieto (130), Kai Tiringer (150), Joseph Brooks (157) and James Mulhern (285). Nieto also captured a state title in his weight class.

Courtesy Massapequa school district

The coaches and athletes of the Massapequa 2025-2026 Nassau County Champion Gymnastics team

Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities.

The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.

CRIME WATCH

PUBLIC INFORMATION

The Nassau County website includes information on how to report a crime, get help for domestic violence, and employment opportunities in the police department. For this and other information go to: pdcn.org/9/How-Do-I

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Residential Program: Beacon House

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 nonveterans 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.

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

•Maryhaven Center of Hope-New Hope 24hr. substance abuse crisis center: 516-5467070; maryhaven.chsli.org/new-hope

•N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516-227-8255 •LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

•24/7 Behavioral health helpline: 516-2278255, 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/nassau-county/

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7763 of Massapequa Park announced that its Military Tribute Banner Program is now open. This Program offers veterans and their family members the opportunity to honor a veteran by displaying a personalized military tribute banner in Massapequa Park.

For more information or to participate go to tinyurl.com/msm2v8yk or call Victor Crespo at 516 799-6758.

In a story that appeared on Page 3 last week, News12 reporter Antoinette Biordi, who was shown interviewing filmmakers Erin Colton and George Massimillo, was misidentified. We apologize for the error.

WEB SITE: www.massapequapost.com / www.liherald.com/Babylon

cjames@liherald.com

EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 329 E-mail: cjames@liherald.com

High

Performing Heart Care, Right Here on the South Shore

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

ELIZABETH POIROT

WEST HEMPSTEAD Senior Lacrosse

ONE OF NASSAU COUNTY’S most prolific scorers, Poirot shares the Herald’s 2026 High School Lacrosse preview cover with Seaford’s Brian Falk. Poirot earned Honorable Mention All-County honors last spring after dominating the scoresheet for a second straight season and helping the Rams to 11 wins. As a junior, she racked up 77 goals to go along with 38 assists. This after in 2024 the dynamic attack scored 74 goals and had 25 assists.

games to watch

Friday, April 10

Softball: Plainedge at Mineola

Softball: Plainview at Carey 10

Softball: Roosevelt at Malverne

Softball: Floral Park at South

Softball: East Meadow at Farmingdale

Baseball: Kennedy at Calhoun

Baseball: Long Beach at South Side

Baseball: Glen Cove at Hewlett

Baseball: Garden City at MacArthur

Boys Lacrosse: Wantagh at North Shore

Girls Lacrosse: Oceanside at Wantagh

Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Lynbrook

Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Elmont 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 11

Girls Lacrosse: East Meadow at Plainedge 9 a.m.

Softball: V.S. Central at V.S. South 10 a.m.

Softball: North Shore at Hewlett 10 a.m.

Softball: Freeport at East Rockaway 10 a.m.

Softball: Massapequa at Oceanside 10 a.m.

Softball: Elmont at West Hempstead 10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Locust Valley at Seaford 2 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last year. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Disney trip bonds Massapequa

By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com

It’s where the MVP of the Super Bowl professes to go after winning a championship.

But for the Massapequa softball team, Disney World is where they hope a championship season begins.

The Chiefs used the trip to build camaraderie and build the foundation of what they hope will be a return trip to the New York State Class AAA championship game, where they fell last June to Lancaster, 4-2, in Binghamton.

“I think the pressure is on,” Massapequa coach Christina Castellani said. “I think the expectation at this point, from the community and obviously the girls, is to get back to states, but we’re trying to take it just one step at a time right now.”

There are 10 players returning, including nine seniors, from last year’s squad that went 22-6 and reached the first state final in program history.

“We have to put in the work to get back there, but we have the talent and the skills to do it. We just need to put it all together,” Castellani said. “We have strong pitching, we’re solid behind the plate, and I think our offense will keep us in the game as well.”

Leading the way is Maeve Schiereck, the Stony Brook-bound catcher who was the Nassau County Player of the Year last season. She hit .482 with 8 homers, 34 RBIs and 32 runs scored.

“She’s a solid player, she’s got a great arm, she’s got good knowledge of the game, she can pretty much call her own game when needed,” Castellani said. “The pitchers are comfortable throwing to her, and we’re comfortable letting her call that game.”

Another anchor is Samantha Dolan, an All-County honorable mention first baseman last year who hit .414 with three home runs, four triples, and 31 RBIs as a junior.

Also back is Sienna Erker, an AllCounty selection a year ago as a freshman utility player.

“She’s a complete athlete, very

poised, very composed for an underclassman, especially coming on a team like this as a freshman, now into her sophomore year,” Castellani said. “She’s got a year of varsity under her belt, and that’s only going to help us, with experience and also some leadership on the field as well.”

Joining Schiereck and Dolan as captain is Marissa Scognamiglio, whom Castellani calls the “mama” of the team. The senior, who will play at shortstop and third base, hit the grand slam in a 5-3 win over Shenendehowa in the state semifinals last year. She’ll be a leader on and off the field.

Alex O’Mallon will share time in the circle with Kaylah Hansen and Kyra Maddock on what Castellani calls a balanced pitching staff.

“Kaylah might have a little more speed over the other two, but as far as pitches, they all have pretty much the same amount of spins, and they all have their own special talents that allow them to do well in the circle,” Castellani said.

Nola Trovato, who provides some power at the plate, will see some time at second base. And Katy Love is a threat on the bases with her speed.

Erik Lee/Herald

Stony Brook University bound catcher Maeve Schiereck was the Nassau County Player of the Year in 2025.

Emergency drill set at Jones Beach Large-scale

training to close Field 5 May 31

Residents should expect an increased law enforcement presence at Jones Beach State Park on May 31, when state and local agencies conduct a large-scale emergency response exercise.

The training, organized by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and State Park Police, will run from 8 a.m. to noon near Field 5. The exercise will simulate several emergency scenarios to test coordination among agencies.

Officials said the area around Field 5 will be closed to the public during the drill, and visitors will see a noticeable increase in police, fire and emergency personnel throughout the park.

Participants will include State Park Police, New York State Police, Nassau County Police, the Wantagh Fire Department and Jones Beach State Park staff, along with representatives from other federal, state and local agencies.

Authorities said any weapons used in the exercise will be incapable of firing live rounds.

Park Police are seeking volunteers age 18 and older to portray park visitors from 6:30 a.m. to noon. Those under 18 may participate with parental consent if they are part of an auxiliary or similar program. Volunteers must complete a service agreement and submit it to ParksEmergencyMgmt-Exercises@parks.ny.gov.

Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Motorcycle Ride, June 7

The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education is hosting its 12th Annual Motorcycle Ride for Breast Health Education. The event is Sunday, June 7 and starts at Overlook Beach where participants will gather before heading east to Mattituck for a team-building lunch.

The cost to ride is $30; vendor tables and sponsorships start at $100. All funds raised goes to charity.

For more information about the Maurer Foundation or to register go to: https://bit.ly/4bPaAUt

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, APRIL 9

•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333.

FRIDAY, APRIL 10

•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, APRIL 12

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

MONDAY, APRIL 13

•Nassau County Legislature Committees Meeting: 1p.m., Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola. For more information, call 516-571-6200.

•Massapequa Fire District Regular Monthly Meeting: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.

TUESDAY, APRIL 14

•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room,

Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, please call (516) 624-6380.

•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.

•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) 2207808. All calls are confidential.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15

•Farmingdale School District Board of Education Meeting- Adopt proposed 26/27 Budget for Voter Approval: 8 p.m., Howitt Middle School, 70 Van Cott Ave., Farmingdale. For more information, call (516) 4345189.

• 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.

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: Post 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.

Massapequa Chamber of Commerce seeks vendors for annual street festival

The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce is currently seeking vendors for their Annual Street Festival on June 7 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a rain date for June 14, on lower Broadway in Massapequa, between Veterans Blvd. and Clark Ave.

The event will feature food, music, prizes and fun family activities.

To reserve your vendor space, please visit shorturl.at/pcVs3.

For more information, please call (516) 541-1443.

L.I. Association hosts state transport chief

Presentation by DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez ranges from speeding to potholes

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

The Long Island Association hosted state Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez as a guest speaker last week. Dominguez spoke about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fiscal year 2027 executive budget and policy proposals for the DOT.

Appearing at LIA headquarters in Melville on March 31, Dominguez explained that Hochul’s administration matched the federal funding for New York state’s transportation needs from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 with a five-year, $35 billion plan. Hochul added $800 million to the plan last year to offset the cost of tariffs and inflation.

“Our federal dollars are expiring on Sept. 30, which presents a unique challenge,” Dominguez said. “We need to make sure that we are positioning New York for the next level of transportation funding.”

She detailed Hochul’s proposed spending plan, which totals $260 billion. Federal funding is down 11.4 percent, or $10.3 billion, and state operating funds have increased by $157 billion. The state is expecting $17 billion more in state revenue over the next two years than earlier estimates.

“The governor is committed to economic growth and making sure there is a social safety net, and funding that social safety net across the board without increasing taxes,” Dominguez said. “In sum, the 2027 Executive Budget successfully balances two simultaneous realities that we have real momentum here in New York, and addressing the volatility that we know is ahead.”

The budget plan includes automated work-zone speed enforcement with new

speed cameras. Dominguez noted that some drivers have been speeding at over 100 miles per hour through work zones, according to the cameras.

The budget proposes deployment of the cameras on non-controlled-access highways, like Sunrise Highway. It also proposes protections for highway maintenance workers against violent assault.

Dominguez also touched on Hochul’s plan to lower the cost of car insurance.

The plan proposes changes to the state’s auto insurance laws that will punish perpetrators of staged car crashes.

The spending plan also includes funding for filling potholes on main roadways. “We are on a blitz statewide addressing potholes,” Dominguez said. It proposes investments of $107 million for paving on Long Island, including 50 miles of the Northern State Parkway and 35 miles of Sunrise Highway.

Action Long Island representative Michael Rodin suggested more improvements he wanted to see. “We want to make sure public transit is a part of the DOT’s agenda in the future,” he said. “We want roads to be able to accommodate buses as well as more cars — a lot of people take public transit to work.”

When the presentation was open for questions, Dominguez addressed a concern about independent contractors’ coverage under the anti-assault provisions in the budget. “The worker assault provision covers state employees as well as independent contractors,” she said.

“We need to make sure elected officials understand that transit and the lives of transit workers are important, so they fund initiatives to help these efforts and these people,” Marc Herbst, executive director of the Long Island Contractors Association, said. “If we don’t ask, they don’t respond.”

Noah Peretz/Herald

DOT representatives, including Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, center right, made a presentation to the Long Island Association.

Massapequa school district honors its winter athletic championship teams and individuals

championships, two Long Island finalist placements, one Long Island championship, 18 individual state qualifiers, two state team finalist finishes, one individual state championship and two state team championships.

“There are 110 school districts on Long Island,” Brennan said. “I don’t think there is one that can say this besides Massapequa.”

Girls indoor track and field head coach Michael Dellicurti called this winter “the best season in program history” as he and assistant coach Christopher Drury recognized the team’s 61 athletes. Two team members earned individual county titles: Keira McLaughlin in the pole vault and Emma Villalta in the 600 meters.

Gymnastics head coach Katie Meehan noted that her team entered the county championships as the No. 3 seed but emerged victorious. “We are a top team, and the pieces finally fell into place,” Meehan said, adding that the coaching staff was proud to watch the athletes develop both competitively and personally. Freshman Lexi Cuthbert was recognized as the county champion on the balance beam.

The state champion wrestling team was led by head coach Michael McCann, who credited his athletes’ commitment and discipline throughout the season. McCann also acknowledged Board of Education President Kerry Wachter for her past support of the program as a former wrestling booster club president.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for April 16 at 8 p.m. in the Massapequa High School auditorium.

The Massapequa 2025-2026 New York State Champion Wrestling Team is congratulated by School Board members and administrators

The Massapequa 2025-2026 Nassau County Champion Girls Indoor Track & Field is congratulated by School Board members and administrators

Photos ourtesy Massapequa school district Nassau County Rifle Champion Martina Dalmas is congratulated by Coach Alex Norden, Massapequa High School Athletics Chair Brian Rath and Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Brennan

Athletic Chair Rath, coaches Michael McCann, Tom Reynolds and James Odris, and Superintendent Brennan congratulate State Wrestling champion Jake Nieto and County Wrestling champions John Tutko, Kai Tiringer, Joseph Brooks and James Mulhern

Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards honor top female leaders and innovators

By Abbey Salvemini

The room at The Heritage Club at Bethpage was filled with energy, ambition and a shared sense of purpose on March 25 as business leaders gathered for the 2026 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards. This annual event honored outstanding women who are not only achieving success within their respective industries but also driving innovation and meaningful change across them.

At the heart of the evening was a clear and resonant message: women are no longer waiting for opportunities to be granted; they are creating their own paths and redefining leadership on their own terms.

Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations and events at Richner Communications, set the tone early in the night, encouraging attendees to “take a look around this room” as a reflection of progress. She also emphasized the significance of the occasion. “Tonight is about celebrating the incredible women who are leading, building and shaping our community,” she said.

She added that the event is part of a broader mission to create spaces “where women don’t just sit at the table, they own the room,” reinforcing the evening’s theme of empowerment and visibility.

She praised the honorees not only for their professional achievements but also for their role in transforming their industries. “You are not just leaders in your field, you are redefining them,’ she said.

Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications, echoed that statement, reflecting on the company’s history and his mother, Edith Richner, a co-founder who once stood alone as the only woman at the table nearly six decades ago. “If she were here tonight, she would be incredibly proud to see a room filled with such accomplished, driven and inspiring women,” he said.

The evening also highlighted the importance of giving back, with proceeds supporting Baby Essentials of Long Island, an organization dedicated to helping families in need provide safe and healthy starts for their children. Richner emphasized the organization’s mission to assist parents facing financial hardship and other challenges, adding a deeper sense of purpose to the celebration.

The honorees themselves brought the evening to life, sharing personal

stories of resilience, leadership and determination that resonated throughout the room.

Among them, Carol Gomes was recognized in the Healthcare and Wellness category, highlighting her leadership as CEO and COO of Stony Brook University Hospital. Reflecting on what it means to be a woman in business today, she described it as a sense of empowerment and the confidence to lead with strong conviction.

“We are nowhere near where we need to be; we’re making progress, but there are still many opportunities to advance women into higher leadership positions,” she said.

Ana Ludemann, MBA, was honored in the Financial Services category, celebrating her success in a competitive, male-dominated industry. Now a vice president and wealth management financial advisor, she built her career after arriving in the United States in 2014 with just $100. Her journey underscored the importance of perseverance and mindset.

“If you work hard and do right by people, there is no way you will not succeed,” she said, adding that resilience is defined not by obstacles, but by how one responds to them.

Honorees in the Insurance and

Rising Stars Under 40, Evelyn Gellar and Jillian Kashuba of Forest Hills Financial Group, echoed the evening’s central themes. Together, they emphasized that while women are increasingly supporting one another and rising into leadership, challenges remain — particularly around work-life balance and equitable opportunities. Their message was clear: building networks and lifting each other up is essential to sustaining momentum in a competitive industry.

Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of the Power Team award, which honored a group of women from St. Joseph’s University. Among them, Jessica McAleer Decatur, Vice President of marketing and communications, reflected on the significance of the recognition and the responsibility that comes with it.

“To follow in the footsteps of these pioneering women is deeply meaningful. As part of the next generation of women leaders, I hope not only to carry forward their legacy, but also to inspire the next generation,” she said.

Throughout the evening, the room buzzed with energy and camaraderie as powerful women mingled,

exchanged stories and shared insights across industries. The atmosphere reinforced the idea that success is not achieved in isolation, but through collaboration, mentorship and a shared commitment to lifting others along the way. Conversations extended beyond individual accomplishments, focusing instead on creating lasting impact and opening doors for the next generation of women leaders.

The event also celebrated the sponsors and partners whose support made the evening possible, including Forest Hills Financial Group, Long Island Contractors Association, and our centerpiece sponsor, St. Joseph’s University. Their involvement underscored the Long Island business community’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion and opportunity. As the evening ended, the message remained clear: progress is underway, and the future of women in business is being shaped through the shared determination and collaboration of everyone present.

To learn more, see additional photos and view the complete list of honorees and sponsors, visit richnerlive.com.

Tim Baker/Herald

Premier Business Women honorees enjoy the gala dinner with their guests.

President & CEO Carol Allen from People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union with her award in Banking Leadership.

Donna M. DiSclafani from Prager Metis CPAs with her award in Accounting.

Lisa Burch from EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies receives her award in Community Impact.

President of SCO Family of Services

Suzette Gordon walks to stage to accept her award.

Co-founders Jill Kofler and Janis Hoffman from Mindful Therapy accept their award in Healthcare & Wellness.

St. Joseph’s University honorees with their Power Team award.

Dr. Maria Conzatti from Nassau Community College with her award in Education.

Vanessa M. Gordon from Grassi receives her award in Accounting.

CEO Charlene Jackson from Thompson Economic Development Services, accepts her award in Entrepreneurship.

CEO-COO Carol Gomes from Stony Brook University Hospital, accepts her award in Healthcare & Wellness.

Evelyn Gellar from Forest Hills Financial Group with her award in Insurance.

Rising Star Jillian Kashuba of Forest Hills Financial Group wins the Hotel Collections raffle.

Honorees Ana Ludemann and Nicole Stefanakos read the Herald commemorative edition with their guests.

Honorees received a Herald crystal award.

POST — April 8, 2026

Bessent, Blakeman tout Trump’s tax cuts

By JULIA CAPITELLI jcapitelli@liherald.com

To promote President Trump’s economic agenda, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent visited Long Island and took part in a panel discussion with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and business executives from across the county.

The March 30 discussion, at the county legislative building, focused on three aspects of the Working Families Tax Cut Act: the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime pay, the creation of so-called Trump Accounts and the higher cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes. Under the law, parents can open and contribute funds to accounts for their children under age 18. As part of the pilot program for the accounts, children born during Trump’s term will receive $1,000 from the Treasury Department.

“It’s something that’s going to help every family in America,” Blakeman, the Republican candidate for governor, said of the program.

The law includes an increase in the state and local tax deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000. It also allocates roughly $170 billion to carry out the administration’s immigration and border objectives, and raises the federal debt ceiling to $5 trillion.

“That’s the American way,” Bessent said of the tax cuts. “Work harder, keep more of your money.”

The SALT deduction avoids double taxation and allows certain taxpayers to reduce their federally taxable income. To offset the cost created by this and the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, the law cuts nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and reduces food assistance and clean-energy incentives.

Panelists shared their perspectives on the law, mostly as it relates to their businesses. Michael Serao, exec-

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and several business executives discussed President Trump’s economic agenda on March 30.

utive vice president and chief administrative officer of First Central Savings Bank, claimed that Trump Accounts could help students build financial literacy.

But much of the discussion focused on the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and the SALT deduction. “I am surrounded by hardworking people, who come into the diner and tell me how happy they are about their tax returns and about how much more money they are getting back,” Gus Tsiorvas, owner of the Embassy Diner, in Bethpage, said.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, the average tax refund this year is roughly 10 percent higher than it was in March 2025. “This means more discretionary spending here in Nassau County,” County Comptroller Elaine Phillips said, “which allows

Bruce not to raise taxes.”

Blakeman reiterated his assertion that Nassau is “the safest county in America where we haven’t raised taxes one penny in four years.”

In a statement about Blakeman’s use of taxpayer resources to campaign as everyday costs escalate, Democratic County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said the Bessent visit was “as shameless as it gets.”

“Nassau residents aren’t stupid — they feel the squeeze every time they fill up, check out at the grocery store, or pay a bill,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “The cost-of-living crisis is real, and it’s being driven directly by the disastrous tariffs and global instability coming from the same out-of-touch allies in Washington [Blakeman] continues to stand with.”

Courtesy Nassau County

STEPPING OUT

‘Rent’ star Adam Pascal returns to reimagine the jukebox musical

By Iris Wiener

When Adam Pascal pulls into Long Island these days, it’s not just a commute; it’s a homecoming layered with memory, coincidence, and creative possibility. This spring, the Tony-nominated performer-turned-director from Syosset is channeling all of that into “Feels Like the First Time: The Foreigner Musical.”

The new production premieres April 17 at the Little Theatre on Long Island University’s Brookville campus.

The project, created in collaboration with the legendary rock band Foreigner, marks the launch of LIU’s New Works Initiative and Pascal’s tenure as the university’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence. But for Pascal, the journey to this moment is anything but typical.

The path to directing the show began not in a rehearsal room, but at a backyard barbecue.

“Tom Dunn [Tilles Center’s creative producer, executive/artistic Director and Dean of LIU’s College of Arts and Design] lives across the street from my sister. I ﬁrst met Tom and his wife at a barbecue,” Pascal relates. “Tom said, ‘We’re doing this thing. Do you want to direct it?’”

From there, the pieces quickly began to align. A previous version of the musical had been developed, but Pascal and the team — including book writer Stephen Garvey and arranger David Abbinanti — set out to reshape it into something fresh: a high-energy, heart-driven story set in the 1980s, centered on three families whose lives collide when a rock star arrives for a backyard concert after an MTV contest win.

“We wanted to create something that was fun and that had heart, that understood its purpose using Foreigner’s music,” Pascal says.

That purpose, however, comes with a unique creative challenge. The musical weaves iconic songs into an original narrative — a process Pascal describes as both complex and deeply collaborative.

“You’re creating a story, and in many ways building a scene backwards,” he explains. “You have these lyrics that were never written to be narrative in that way, so you have to do a lot of reverse engineering.”

Still, that creative freedom is part of the appeal.

“We get to reimagine these songs,” he adds. “They’ve now become narrative storytelling songs.”

The new musical features a company of 26 performers, primarily LIU students — a fact Pascal calls fortuitous.

“The combination of this process, this particular show, and this university … it couldn’t have been a better melding of all things.”

For Pascal, working with students isn’t just about mentorship — it’s personal, as he has two sons the same age as the young cast. His directing style reﬂects that perspective, blending instinct, experience and a focus on emotional authenticity.

“I approach it from a much more naturalistic and real place. I’m trying to orchestrate a picture and to get them to use their emotions in a physical way.”

That lived-in approach comes from decades in the industry, which includes roles in Broadway’s “Aida,” “Memphis” and “Something Rotten,” besides the iconic“Rent.” However, Pascal quickly points out that he was never formally trained.

New Works Initiative, an incubator for developing and reﬁning new theatrical works by both emerging and established writers.

• Friday through Sunday, April 17-19 and Thursday through Sunday, April 23-26, varied times

• Tickets are $43.82, $17.82 students; available at tillescenter.org/events

• Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

“My approach can only be [described as] a layman approach. I’m fortunate enough to now have 30 years of experience making musicals.”

And yet, for all his Broadway credentials, Pascal is candid about the challenges facing the industry today — particularly the ﬁnancial barriers that make developing new work increasingly difﬁcult in New York City.

“We all have to change the mindset about working in New York,” he says bluntly, pointing to rising production costs and systemic issues. Instead, he sees projects like “Feels Like the First Time” as part of a larger shift — one that prioritizes creativity, collaboration and accessibility over tradition and expense.

“I want to take the power out of Broadway’s hands and put it back into the hands of people who make theater,” he states.

That philosophy is evident in the show’s development process, which Pascal praises for its efﬁciency and clarity of vision.

For LIU students like Anna Frost, being part of that process is nothing short of transformative. A senior serving as dramaturg for the show, Frost is deeply embedded in the rehearsal rooms, helping to shape the evolving script.

“It is so exciting for me to work on a show which is in development,” she says. “I get to work with a living, breathing text.”

For her, the experience underscores the importance of new work in today’s theatrical landscape.

“There has to be new art that is relevant to what is happening now,” she adds. “Getting to be a part of something that will be history is really cool.”

Pascal agrees and hopes the students recognize the signiﬁcance of their involvement.

“They’ll forever be connected to this show as the ﬁrst people that played these characters,” he says. “If the show becomes a hit, they’ll always have that on their resume.”

That sense of legacy resonates deeply with Pascal himself, particularly given his return to Long Island. He remains deeply connected to his roots, and optimistic about its potential as a hub for theatrical innovation.

“There’s no better place for it,” he says of LIU. “They have the facilities, the desire and the proximity to the city.”

As for what’s next, Pascal continues to develop new musicals through his production company, including an adaptation of “Ruthless People.” He’s also set to direct “Our Little Secret: A True New Musical” in Toronto. For now, “Feels Like the First Time” offers something that feels incredibly meaningful — -a chance to build, collaborate, and rediscover the spark that started it all.

Or, as Pascal might put it, to make it feel like the ﬁrst time all over again.

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

Friday and Saturday, April 10-11, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Fleetwood Macked

Eighteen years ago Fleetwood Macked set out to provide audiences with the truest live Fleetwood Mac experience as possible and haven’t stopped since. Much of the realism comes from the New York-based band’s history. Husband and wife musical team Hillary and Michael Epstein (Stevie and Lindsey) and friends Tracy Wells, Jay Novas, Phil Weiss and Andrew Nadien (Christine, John and Mick) have made great music together in various incarnations that ﬁnally all came together with their mutual love of Fleetwood Mac. They are and have always been professional touring rock musicians, which also adds to the authenticity of the sound of the band. Fleetwood Macked live brings audiences the passion, depth, heart, and the musicianship Fleetwood Mac’s music requires. Out of love and respect musical liberties are not taken, songs are recreated just as Fleetwood Mac intended them.

Friday, April 10, 8 p.m. $48. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

April 8,

Mike DelGuidice

Photo courtesy Jack Roman

Adam Pascal, left, with Tilles Center’s Executive and Artistic Director Tom Dunn, is launching LIU Post’s

the Porch” series, which brought

“Feels is

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

9 Wendy Klemperer: Wrought Taxonomies

Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museum-goers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.16-April 19

• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579

‘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 Zoning Board of Appeals meets

The Town of Oyster Bay holds their next ZBA 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

APR

Micky Dolenz

“Mystic Pizza.” starring Julia Roberts and Annabeth Gish.

• Where: 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon and 1:30-4 p.m.

• Contact: farmingdalelibrary. org or (516) 249-9090

Plainedge BOE meets Plainedge Board of Education holds their next meeting All are welcome to attend.

• Where: High School Cafeteria, Plainedge High School, 241 Wyngate Dr., Massapequa

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 992-7450

Town

of Oyster Bay Senior Karaoke

Program

Micky Dolenz celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Monkees with a special tour honoring the band’s enduring legacy and timeless sound. In this nostalgic and high-spirited performance, Dolenz takes audiences on a musical journey through The Monkees’ rise to fame, performing their biggest hits in chronological order while sharing personal stories from his decades in entertainment. As the last surviving member of the beloved group, Dolenz brings both heart and history to the stage, paying tribute to bandmates Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith, while celebrating the fans who helped transform a fictional TV band into a global sensation. A true entertainment veteran, Dolenz’s career spans decades and disciplines — from his early days as a child star on “Circus Boy” to his work as a singer, actor, director and radio host. In recent years, he has continued to keep The Monkees’ music alive for new generations, including a solo tour performing the group’s 1967 album “Headquarters” in its entirety. This is sure to be a heartfelt, hit-filled evening that blends music, memories and a lasting connection to one of pop culture’s most iconic acts.

APR 10

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

Westbury House Tour

For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th

century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: Noon-1 p.m., also April 12-13 and April 15-16

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

APR

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

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

• Time: Varied times, also April 12

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

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

APR

Massapequa Fire District meets

The Massapequa Fire District holds their next regular monthly meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave. Massapequa.\

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 798-2648

APR

Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting

The Town of Oyster Bay Board holds their next meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 624-6380.

The Town of Oyster Bay invites seniors to participate in their karaoke program held at various community centers through the town. Great singing skills aren’t necessary to join the fun, and residents are welcome to attend without performing. No registration required for this program. A full karaoke machine, song list and light refreshments will be provided.

• Where: Mondays, Marjorie Post Center, 451 Unqua Road, Massapequa Park; Wednesdays, Glen Head Community Center, 200 Glen Head Road, Glen Head; Thursdays, Hicksville Community Center, 28 W. Carl St., Hicksville

• Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 1 p.m., Thursdays at 11 a.m.

• Contact: oysterbaytown.com or (516) 797-7916

APR

Farmingdale BOE meets The Farmingdale Board of Education holds their next meeting, when the proposed 2026/27 budget will be adopted for voter approval. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: Howitt Middle School, 70 Van Cott Ave., Farmingdale.\

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 434-5189

Having an event?

Items

to a showing of

water. The youngest plunger was 5-yearold Charlie Hoffmann.

Among the participants were Donna Pandaliano of Farmingdale, who plunged alongside her son Greg and members of Boy Scout Troop 46, which she described as a community service–focused group.

“We just love to help people out,” Pandaliano said.

Josie Coppola of Massapequa also took the plunge with friend Kevin Salvadori, calling the event “such a great cause” and praising efforts to support Special Olympics New York.

Similarly, Mo Martinez and his son Ryan of Massapequa participated together, embracing the conditions.

“We’re freezin’ for a reason,” Martinez said. “And the cold doesn’t bother us at all.”

Dad and son enjoyed a “plunge.”

“Plungers” leave the water

Mike Polansky/Herald photos

Kevin Salvadori and Josie Coppola of Massapequa warm up after the event.

APRIL 16 • 10AM-12:30PM

FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle

Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers

Take advantage of on-site health screenings

Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences

Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A

Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways

Snack station for all

*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees

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

& BEYOND

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

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0370-26106573 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/ Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 516 E Meadow Ave, East Meadow, NY 11554, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at JOKER'Z PUB LLC. 26-67. 4/1. 8

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Knowledge JAM79 LLC. Articles of Organization were filed wit h the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on _01_/_20_/_2026_. NY Office location: Nassau County. 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

Notice of Qualification of BHOGADI MEDICAL, PLLC, a domestic professional service limited liability company (PLLC).

DOS ID: 7838103 Filed with Sec’y of State (SSNY) on 02/12/2026

Principal business address: 16 Middle Neck Road #630, Great Neck, NY 11021

SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it

may be served & shall mail copy of process to: InCorp Services, Inc., One Commerce Plaza99 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 Speech Therapy, PLLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 01/06/2026 Office 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

Notice of formation of THE CHARCUTERIE WIVES, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 02/11/2026 Office location, County of Nassau 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 CHARCUTERIE WIVES, LLC , 2081 Willoughby Ave, Wantagh NY 11793 Purpose: any lawful act.

26-57 3/25, 4/1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0267-26106264 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1500 Old Country Road, Unit 226, Westbury, NY 11590, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at SMASHIT THERAPY

WESTBURY LLC. 26-62. 4/1, 8

VISO DE REUNIÓN ESPECIAL DE DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE FARMINGDALE VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DEL FIDEICOMISARIO 14 DE ABRIL DE 2026 POR EL PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que una reunión especial de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Farmingdale Union de las ciudades de Oyster Bay y los condados de Babylon, Nassau y Suffolk, New York, se llevará a cabo en la Biblioteca Pública de Farmingdale, 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale, New York (la “Biblioteca”) el martes 14 de abril de 2026, entre las 7:30 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m., hora vigente, con el fin de votar sobre los siguientes puntos:

• Adoptar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca Pública de Farmingdale para el año fiscal 20262027 y autorizar que la porción requerida del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito; y

• Elegir un (1) miembro de la Junta

Public Notices

Directiva de la Biblioteca por un período de cinco (5) años que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2031, como resultado del vencimiento del período que ocupa actualmente Laura Ulric.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca celebrará una reunión de información pública con el propósito de discutir el presupuesto de la biblioteca propuesto para 2026-2027 el 31 de marzo de 2026 a las 6:00 p. m., en la Biblioteca (dirección arriba). Todos los residentes del Distrito de Bibliotecas están invitados a asistir. Una copia del presupuesto de la biblioteca propuesto, junto con el texto de cualquier resolución que se presentará a los votantes, se puede obtener en la Biblioteca (dirección arriba) entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m. a partir del 31 de marzo de 2026, excepto domingos o días festivos.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que las peticiones que nominen candidatos para el cargo de administrador de la biblioteca se presentarán en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca, ubicada dentro de la Biblioteca (dirección arriba) entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m., a más tardar las 5:00 p. m. 5:00 pm Sabado, 14 de marzo de 2026. Cada candidato debe ser un votante calificado del Distrito de Bibliotecas y debe residir en el área atendida por la Biblioteca. Cada petición se dirigirá al Secretario de Votación de la Biblioteca; debe estar firmado por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito, debe indicar el nombre y residencia de cada firmante y debe indicar

el nombre y residencia del candidato.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes de conformidad con el artículo §2014 de la Ley de Educación o de conformidad con el artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora de conformidad con la Sección §2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial del distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, él o ella es elegible para votar en esta elección.

Si un elector está registrado y tiene derecho a votar en virtud del artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, también tiene derecho a votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse.

SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que la Junta de Registro se reunirá con el propósito de realizar un registro de todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación en la Biblioteca (dirección arriba) el martes 31 de marzo de 2026 entre el horario de 4:00 p.m. y 8:00 p.m. Cualquier persona de quien se sepa o se demuestre, a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro, que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o en adelante en la elección para la cual se prepara el registro, se le agregará su nombre al registro. El registro de votantes se archivará en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca (dirección arriba), donde estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores al 14 de abril de 2026, excluyendo domingos y feriados, entre el

horario de 9:00 a.m. y 5:00 p.m. SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que las solicitudes para boletas por correo anticipado y en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario comercial escolar en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca a partir del 16 de marzo de 2026. Las solicitudes completas deben recibirse en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante. Las boletas por correo anticipado y en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario de Votación de la Biblioteca (ubicado en la Biblioteca) a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora predominante, del martes 14 de abril de 2026. Una lista de las personas a quienes se les debe enviar por correo anticipado y en ausencia Las boletas que se emitan estarán disponibles para su inspección para los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca cada uno de los cinco días previos a la votación, excepto los domingos y feriados, entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m. SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que un votante calificado cuya capacidad para presentarse personalmente en el lugar de votación se ve sustancialmente impedida por razones de enfermedad permanente o discapacidad física y cuyo registro de registro ha sido marcado como "permanentemente discapacitado" por la Junta Electoral de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación tendrá derecho a recibir un voto en aus-

encia sin necesidad de realizar solicitudes separadas para ello. SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que los votantes militares que no están actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito de Bibliotecas. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito de Bibliotecas pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y las solicitudes de boleta militar deben recibirse en la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. el Viernes 3 de abril de 2026. No se escrutará ninguna boleta militar a menos que la reciba la Oficina Comercial de la Biblioteca a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de las elecciones.

Copias de este aviso y otra información electoral están disponibles en español e inglés en www.farmingdalelibrary.org.

Con fecha de: Farmingdale, New York

3 de febrero de 2026

Por Orden del BOARD OF TRUSTEES FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Notic e is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0240-26107515 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a

Farmingdale, New York

CHRISTA LUCARELLI, Directora 26-55 3/25, 4/8

Notice of Self Storage Sale

Please take notice

Safeguard Self Storage #190113 located at 6000 Sunrise Highway Massapequa NY 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 4/28/2026 at 10:30AM. Unless listed below, the contents consist of household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Elena Chavez unit #1423; Hashid Louis unit #1713; Miguel Cabrera unit #2402. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. See manager for details.

26-74 4/8, 15

NOTICE TO BIDDERS MASSAPEQUA UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

Bids will be received, publicly opened and read aloud for T-SHIRTSat 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at the office of the Purchasing Agent, District Offices, Massapequa Public Schools, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758. Specifications are available at www.msd.k12. ny.us/bids beginning Wednesday, April 8, 2026 26-75. 4/8

Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 5A E Merrick Rd, Freeport, NY 11520, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Taqueria Linder Corp. 26-76 4/8, 15

NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING OF THE FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET VOTE AND TRUSTEE 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 Library 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 in the Library (address

Public Notices

above) between the 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 Library (address above)

on Tuesday, March 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 place is substantially

impaired by reasons 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

FARMINGDALE

PUBLIC LIBRARY

Farmingdale, New York

CHRISTA LUCARELLI, Director 26-36. 2/25, 3/11, 25, 4/8

Staging a Cat Bath

Have all the props handy and nearby

Are you feeling brave? Then, you should be able to bathe your cat if you follow certain steps.

Although cats are selfcleaning, they do require baths occasionally, especially when flea-infested, covered with an oily or toxic substance, or when you’re trying to reduce the dander level in your house. You can wash your cat at home without maiming Fluffy or yourself if you orchestrate the bath like a well-rehearsed play. Here is advice straight from the script of “Cat Wash” starring Fluffy:

Pets, Pets, Pets...

GATHER THE PROPS . It’s best to have everything- rubber gloves, shampoo, rinse cup, a washcloth for the cat’s face and soft towels- at your fingertips before you begin. Cats calm down more quickly if they have a window screen placed at a 45-degree

angle to grab onto in the tub or sink. A hand spray faucet is a huge help. Mixing the shampoo in a bottle with warm water before starting makes it easier to spread the soap evenly. This gathering should be done nonchalantly so not to tip off the bathee. Make sure the product you are about to use is safe for cats; be extra cautious with kittens. Certain pet shampoos are just for dogs. Read the bottle instructions beforehand. For a flea or medicated bath, the cat may have to stay lathered for 5-10 minutes. It is easier to put the sudsy cat in a carrier while you time it, so have an open carrier accessible before you start.

SET THE STAGE. Put on an outfit you don’t care about. Remember any sweater could be pulled and destroyed. Grooming smocks offer another layer of protection.

Have all supplies and towels within reach before trying to give your cat a bath.

Long sleeves are necessary in case you are scratched or bitten. Clear all drenchables and breakables from the area before you begin. Adjust the water temperature to lukewarm, open the bottle, and put the screen in place. Mix your shampoo and water combo. Cats can be freaked out by a hand sprayer so you might want to use the faucet and rinse cups instead. Fold another towel and place it at the edge of the sink because cats often like the feel of the towel when they step out of the sink. MAKE-UP. You will finish with fewer scars if you do prepaaratory work such as clipping nails or de-matting a long-haired cat. Baths make mats worse. If you have a rescue kitten with ear mites, clean the ears before the bath. When possible, use tearless cat shampoo. Since shampoos can be eye irritants, apply a little eye ointment before starting. Petroleum-based tubes are available at the vet.

SUMMON THE STAR. Resort to sleight of hand or there will be no cat in sight when you are ready to direct Act 1. Block all exits. Cats possess a mathematical skill to position themselves under the widest bed, equidistant from either side, beyond the widest arm span of any human. Pretend to be doing something else and then scoff

up the feline by the scruff of the neck and gently deposit him in the sink.

LIGHTS, ACTION, SOAKING. Make sure the water is lukewarm. Hold the cat with one hand by the scruff. (For novice bathers or tough cats, two pairs of hands are best.) Talk or sing to the cat. Tell her how good she is even if she isn’t. I prefer show tunes. Just add the cat’s name to the lyrics. Your duet may dumbfound the wet wailer. Soap the cat from the head back. Rinse thoroughly.

DRY THE STAR Wring loose fur carefully. Towel dry as water you can. Shorthaired cats dry quickly on a warm day. Longhaired cats, kittens or chilly weather baths may require a dryer. You can put a cat in a carrier and use your hair dryer on warm. Cooperative cats allow you to hold them and blow dry. Never leave a pet unattended under a dryer. When you are done drying, give your cat a treat. Then get one for yourself

If you don’t think you can manage bathing your cat, go to a professional groomer. Be forewarned that not all groomers work with cats, and the price is comparable to that of a shorthaired dog. Use a groomer who has been recommended by a “cat” person.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Waiting For The Right Family

This is a standout listing in Woodmere’s Five Towns. Fully renovated legal mother-daughter (2-family classification 220.01), this originally 6-bedroom, 3-bath home is ideal for rental income or extended family living. This oversized 3,500 sq. ft. Hi-Ranch is in the award-winning Hewlett-Woodmere District 14.

How much extra money does a home cost these days?

Q. I saw a billboard and several TV commercials for something called “Let Them Build, NY,” and was wondering what you could tell me about it. The commercial said that there is an extra $82,000 spent on housing, per home, just due to government red tape. Is this true, and is anything being done about it?

A. There is plenty of finger-pointing in the construction industry, on top of the current cost increases due to tariffs, war and subsequent delivery costs due to higher fuel prices. But long before there were these current issues, government officials began, at every level, to either increase enforcement of existing regulations or to add regulations on top of what was already fairly complicated and burdensome.

Many years ago I was very active in the American Institute of Architects, to the point of being vice president of the Long Island chapter. I left them when I realized that they did not want to have the backbone to challenge, as a professional group, the regulations that cause construction and building design to become out of reach for a large segment of our population. In the years following, I daily encountered the thousands of building owners who never even attempted to comply with building regulations, basically skirting the entire permit process altogether because of the added expense.

The first and foremost expense is caused by the delays in getting through the approval process. There are so many reasons for the slowdown that it will take several columns, at 500 words apiece, to get through the long list of problems. If you ask a government official, they will point to the design professionals who “just can’t seem to get the regulations right” in their drawing submissions. I have often listened as officials complained to me about inadequate drawings being submitted. In all fairness, it is a two-way street, because the communications from officials back to the architects and engineers is often incoherent or incomplete.

When a plans examiner uses phrases like “demonstrate compliance” or “incomplete submission,” they are contributing to the problem, not solving it. Instead of pointing to specific sections of code and explaining the very specific problem, they communicate in generalities that are useless and cause a lot of extra work and discussion among the people trying to move a project forward. The phrase “If you aren’t part of the solution, you’re part of the problem” applies here.

I remember when a plans examiner would mark up and discuss specific drawings, and some even went the extra mile and pulled out their code books. In the era of computers, the internet and the “portal,” building officials often abbreviate and confuse both the professional and the customer by not pointing out that “the wording on Sheet 3 in the upper right-hand corner should state…” The lack of specifics creates lots of back-and-forth, delays and cost to the owner for the delays. Rent and taxes still need to be paid during the delays.

More to follow.

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.

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Did I ever tell you about my grad school?

Rosemary and I and our son Sean recently visited the University of Notre Dame. In many ways it was a homecoming.

Rosemary, her mother and her sister graduated from St. Mary’s College, adjacent to Notre Dame, in the days before it accepted female students. Her father and two brothers are Notre Dame grads. Our daughter Erin and I graduated from Notre Dame Law School, and Sean earned his MBA from Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of Business. Sean is now an affiliated scholar at the university’s Liu Institute for Asian Affairs, and regularly lectures on Asian geopolitics and economic policy at the institute and the Mendoza School. When I was growing up as an IrishCatholic kid in blue-collar Queens, Notre Dame embodied Irish-Catholic immigrant success in becoming a part of the American fabric and achieving the American dream. That success was exemplified by Notre Dame’s fabled football teams, which dominated college

football during that era. Of course, there was and is more to the university than football. Notre Dame was founded at a time of severe anti-Catholic bias in the country, led by hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and the Know Nothing movement. There also was anti-Catholic bias in academia well into the 20th century, which Arthur Schlesinger Sr. described as “the anti-Semitism of intellectuals.”

MNotre Dame, though, went beyond being a defensive religious fortress to making Catholic thought a part of American life, along with full acceptance of other religions, with open debate and finding common ground encouraged. Striking that balance can be difficult, but it is still working. Religious freedom was on display on the campus last year, when pro-Hamas demonstrations did not devolve into the antisemitic violence that occurred at other universities, such as Columbia. Students were given prescribed locations and time periods for demonstrations, and those who ignored them were arrested. The result was intelligent debate without violence. Rosemary and I visited this year to meet with some of Sean’s academic colleagues and watch him in action. We

y wife and I visited a university you may have heard of to watch our son in action.

also walked around the campus, taking in iconic sights like the Golden Dome and rekindling old memories. On our first morning, we met with Frank Pomarico and his wife, Eileen. A Queens native and a graduate of St. Francis Prep, Frank was the captain of Notre Dame’s 1973 national champion football team, coached by the legendary Ara Parseghian. Frank and Eileen live in South Bend, and are amazingly friendly and interesting. It was a great way to start the day.

Then we walked over to the law school to meet with Diane Desierto, a professor of international law and human rights, a native of the Philippines, a friend of Sean’s and a true scholar. Desierto updated me on the state of the law school (all good), her strong belief that law students should be exposed to all sides of issues and that legal education must include a moral component.

We had lunch with Josh Gobel, a good friend and a longtime member of the South Bend Police Department who now works in the Notre Dame P.D. in various key capacities, including protecting visiting dignitaries, such as Supreme Court Justice Amy Cony Barrett — who

iattended the law school at the same time as Erin. Great conversation with Josh, as always.

After a visit to the campus bookstore, Rosemary and I joined Sean at the Morris Inn on campus for dinner with Michel Hockx, a Chinese scholar and a professor at the Liu Institute, where Sean had just finished teaching a class. Hockx, who is originally from the Netherlands, has been teaching at Notre Dame for 10 years, and has worked with Sean on various projects. After dinner, we all walked to the Mendoza School to watch Sean give a lecture to a group of students preparing to visit Japan.

He discussed the intricacies of Japanese political, cultural and economic development since the end of World War II, the country’s relationship with the United States and the threats it faces from China. My biased opinion? A thoughtful, virtuoso performance. (He must have gotten it from Rosemary, who was a teacher.)

The next day we flew back to New York. Rosemary and I went home to Seaford, and Sean to his apartment in Manhattan — all three of us with new Notre Dame memories to share. And yes, Notre Dame football is still great. Go, Irish!

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

Will there be a blue wave this fall?

Is this the year of the blue wave? Will it be a modified one or a total rout? Is there any chance of a red wave? Not likely. But, once again, we are facing a year in which the U.S. House of Representatives, and perhaps the Senate, are up for grabs, and the early odds favor the party that’s out of power.

We often refer to political prognosticating it as “reading the tea leaves.” But tea leaves are no longer the best way to pick winners and losers. There are now so many more sophisticated ways to handicap the races, some of which we have been used for years and others that are brand new. The media is dominated by daily polling announcements, and if you give the polls any credence, they spell bad news for President Trump and the candidates of his party.

Poll after poll, whether from the left or the right, seem to indicate that this may be a very bad year for Republicans.

You know that things look bad for them when Fox News consistently announces polls showing that everyday Republicans and independents are slowly moving away from long-favored party candidates. In addition, wellknown commentators such as Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson are predicting only bad things for the party come November.

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The newest form of political projections is occurring on such outlets as Kalshi and Polymarket.

On Kalshi, people trade contracts on the outcome of real-world events. They are deep into gambling on sports events, but lately have also been involved in betting on political events. Polymarket is built on a crypto platform. People bet on “yes” and “no” shares that reflect the feelings of the bettors and their inkling to pick winners. Both platforms have become highly controversial. Demands are being made for them to be regulated by Congress, but that won’t happen soon. If you want to find more reliable trends, pay attention to what’s going on in Washington and around the country. This year, more than 30 Republican

’ve seen many waves, red and blue, which are part of the ups and downs of politics.

members of the House have announced that they won’t seek re-election. Some are campaigning for Senate seats and others are running for governor, but the vast majority of the retirees have announced that they’re eager to spend more time with their families, the age-old excuse to get out of Washington.

At last count, there were 35 House seats up for reelection that were tilting toward the Democrats. If the blue wave is really going to happen, most of those seats will go to the Democrats. In 2025 the party won major races in Virginia, New Jersey and New York. This year, a number of Democrats have had upset wins in races for state House seats in districts that Trump won in 2024 by wide margins. If these victories are any indication of the national trend, it’s all bad news for the Republicans.

Up to a few months ago, there was little or no talk about Democrats having any chance to take over the U.S. Senate, but the latest polls seem to show a tightening of the races in Maine, North Carolina, Texas and Ohio. If Democrats can

pull off any upsets in these key states, Jon Ossoff can hold on to his seat in Georgia and a newcomer can win in Michigan, the party’s chances of capturing the Senate will improve remarkably.

One of the more disturbing factors for Republicans is the fact that Trump hasn’t made any strong statements about his desire to see his party stay in power. He is promoting various ideas about how they can win at the ballot box, but any federal effort to take the power to oversee voting away from the states will likely be struck down as unconstitutional.

Having reached an advanced age, I’ve seen many waves, both red and blue. They sometimes last two years, and occasionally continue for four years. The swings back and forth between parties are part of the ups and downs of politics. So if it turns out that the Democrats have a great year, they’d better handle their newfound power very carefully, because two years can pass very quickly.

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.

Local News Day now means more than ever

Somewhere on Long Island tonight, a village board will vote on a zoning variance, a school district will finalize a budget or a contractor will win a bid. None of it will lead the network news or trend on social media. But it will matter — to the family whose street gets rezoned, to the teachers whose contract is on the line, to the taxpayers footing the bill.

In most cases, a Herald reporter will be in that room. But in too many communities across the country — and increasingly in our own backyard — that reporter’s chair sits empty. And when no one is watching, things have a way of going sideways.

April 9 is Local News Day, a national moment to recognize what local news does, why it matters, and what we lose when it disappears.

Local news isn’t the shouting matches on cable or the partisan warfare that passes for national political coverage. Local news is the Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Hewlett High School science fair. It’s the Nassau County budget hearing that will affect your property taxes for the next decade, the obituary that captures a neighbor’s life, and the investigation that stops a bad idea before it becomes law. At Richner Communications — publisher of the Long Island Herald — we’ve been doing this work since 1964. Sixty-two years, three generations, over 100 local employees, nearly 30 weekly newspapers.

The Founding Fathers understood the stakes. The free press is the only indus-

Your opinion Matters

try they considered important enough to protect by name in the Constitution. But we are failing that promise. Since 2004, one-third of all American newsrooms have closed. There are 43,000 fewer local reporters and editors working today than there were then. New York alone has lost nearly half its newspapers, and a quarter of the state’s counties now have one or no local news sources. Digital-only outlets have not filled the void.

Today, more than 2½ newspapers shutter in America each week. The consequences are documented and dire: Communities without local news see lower voter turnout, higher taxes and measurable increases in corruption, political polarization, and even toxic environmental emissions.

Wealth is no inoculation from this trend. The Scarsdale Inquirer was founded in 1901 and served one of the wealthiest communities in America for 123 years. It closed without warning in January 2024. The Westchester village — mirroring the demographics of many Long Island communities — still doesn’t have a newspaper over two years later.

Compounding this problem is the rise of artificial intelligence, which can now manufacture articles, quotes, and entire “news sites” that look authoritative and cost almost nothing to create. That means the news environment has only grown harder to navigate. Trusted news brands, with reporters who actually live and work in the communities they cover, are more important than ever. It’s the reason that we at the Herald use A.I. as a tool to support, not replace, the report-

ers you know and respect.

And yet the climate for news in America has rarely been more hostile than today. The United States now ranks 57th in the world in press freedom — labeled “problematic” by Reporters Without Borders, placing us alongside countries we’re accustomed to lecturing about democratic norms. Arrests of reporters and editors in America nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024. A national shield law for reporters has failed to pass Congress twice. Right now, the Pentagon is aggressively curtailing press access, a policy that flies in the face of a functioning democracy. The temperature in Washington sets a tone, and that tone travels — all the way to the reporters covering Long Island’s myriad municipal entities.

The Herald has always believed that local news is worth fighting for. It’s why we helped found the Empire State Local News Coalition, which won a first-of-itskind state tax credit for local newspapers. That legislation is already helping newspapers survive that might otherwise have gone dark, meaning that thousands of New Yorkers who might otherwise have lost their only trusted local news source still have one.

Every community gets the local news it deserves — which is to say, the local news it supports. If you want a paper that shows up, you have to show up for it. On Local News Day, make that decision. Subscribe. Advertise. Tell your neighbors. The Herald has been here for over a century. Whether we’re here for the next one is, in no small part, up to you.

Singing the low-down, how-did-I-get-so-old blues

iam astonished to tell you that I just marked my 79th birthday. No greetings and salutations, please. It’s a big number, and it weighs a ton. I’m standing on the threshold of lights-out and wondering how I got from then to now.

In 1949 I could walk under my parents’ dining room table. It was my special parlor trick. Then playground, school, dating, college, marriage, kids, grandkids and closing curtains. I’m still short, but I can’t clear the tabletop. And that’s not all that has changed.

Culture, politics, fashion, food and entertainment are often unrecognizable to me. Sometimes I feel estranged from “modern” life. As I write this out of my own brain, sharing my unadulterated, unimproved or revised thoughts, I’m being assaulted by prompts asking if I want “Copilot” to rework my sentences. I don’t know where Copilot came from and have no

idea how to get rid of it. This isn’t a one-off experience. It’s daily combat with technology that threatens to drive me screaming from the house.

I’m barely exaggerating. Many friends are more adept with technology, but many more are less skilled. This is a constant challenge, whether I try to pay a bill or reach a doctor or, heaven forbid, get a copy of a document from the DMV.

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y daily combat with technology threatens to drive me screaming from the house.

Life is hard enough, what with approaching death and such. But add heaven knows how many streaming services when all you want to do is turn on the freaking TV for a half hour; it’s too much. With all the tools that are supposed to make life easier, it has undoubtedly become more complicated. And this isn’t just an oldster’s kvetch.

Time was, I could go for a walk in peace and quiet, enjoying my own thoughts. Now I’m fully sucked into the need to do three things at once: walk, listen to a book while I read and answer messages, and have some app count my steps. I never signed on to this app, yet it has the nerve to tell me after a walk:

Framework by Tim Baker

“Next time you can do better.” I want to be alone, and all day long I’m assailed by pings and rings and notifications ad nauseum. I talk to friends in real time and real space, and as I share my private thoughts with them, they’re talking to the watch on their wrist. This can’t be good for anyone.

I know this sounds like every older generation’s observations of the young, but in this case, really, you know I’m right. No one just sits and talks to one another anymore without a prop, like a phone.

I think about my first encounters with boys when we were in grade school. We started and stumbled and learned to talk to one another, and then danced and then dated and made out in cars. Today I read story after story about how 20-somethings say that romance and dating are dead. Who killed it? Did we boomers somehow get the best of it? You know, right place, right time? The pace of life, the devices, the culture of increasing isolation are not working to make a better life for the grandkids.

We were inexperienced and naïve enough to feel wonder and delight in love and travel and having children. Now “parenting” seems like a burden to many young people, and indeed it is, with apps that track ovulation and breast milk availability. The technology hijacks the entire experience. You can’t do better as a parent by finding the exact time Baby will burp after feeding. What you can do is lose the joy of the moment.

From my vantage point, stepping into my 80th year, it’s been a pretty good life so far. These last years have brought some painful challenges, but the decades before provided a buffer of good memories and gratitude. We can’t travel right now, but it is said that real discovery isn’t looking for something new but seeing the same life with different eyes.

I believe with all my heart that for many of us boomers, the pandemic and its isolation, the separation from kids, grandkids and friends, robbed us of the years we might have eased into older age. And now we’re here. The best I can do is look at this moment, and it will be just a moment, with new eyes.