Harper Boggs, left, and Temidayo Otemi, third grade students at Park Avenue Elementary School, with first graders Cecilia Deschaine and Aliyan Fahad and the school’s secretary, Christie Boschert, who created the tournament display in the lobby.
Students vote for book of the year
‘
Magic Ramen’ by Andrea Wang wins 16 book tournament
By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com
March Book Madness came to a climactic conclusion at Park Avenue Elementary School in Merrick, where hundreds of students voted “Magic Ramen: The Story of Momofuku Ando” by Andrea Wang as the best book of the school year on April 2.
The bracket-style tournament began with 16 books, and each week, students would vote on which books would advance to the next round of the tournament until one was crowned the winner.
The tournament’s weekly results were put on display in the school lobby — an idea created by the school’s secretary, Christie Boschert. As students arrived each day, the first topic they talked about was the books’ rankings.
“It’s a place where students can go and see what book is in the lead and what’s winning,” Lynn Coyle, the principal of Park Avenue, told the Herald. “It’s gotten excitement in the building. It’s all good stuff, it all promotes learning and reading, and it’s all about engaging the kids.”
Two Ohio teachers, Tony Keefer and Scott Jones, hatched the idea for the book event, experimenting with using a bracket-style tournament in their classrooms in 2015. They began to promote the annual event to other educators with suggested reading lists for young students.
A pair of educators at Park Avenue Elementary School, Nicole Giusto and Yvonne Francolina, helped bring this new tradition
COnTinuED
Committed to sustainability Library earns top certification in Nassau
By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com
The North Bellmore Public Library has been certified as a Sustainable Library through the Sustainable Libraries Initiative’s award-winning Sustainable Libraries Certification Program. It is the first public library in Nassau County to earn this certification.
TThe program guides libraries through a rigorous step-by-step process to incorporate sustainable decision-making into their policies and actions. The initiative provided a comprehensive framework to strengthen the library’s dedication to environmental stewardship, economic sustainability and social equity.
tiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable future.
he certification underscores our ongoing commitment to creating a lasting, positive impact.
JAMES
luBERTo
Assistant director & Sustainability team leader
“I am thankful to our dedicated Board of Trustees for their ongoing support of our vision and commitment to achieving certification and reinforcing ourselves as a leader in Nassau County,” Jessica Tymecki, the library’s director, said in a written statement. “I wish to give special recognition to the library’s Sustainability Team, spearheaded by James Luberto, assistant director of the library, for the daily work and commitment that was necessary to meet all of the standards for sustainable practices.”
The library serves people residing in the North Bellmore School District, which encompasses North Bellmore and parts of North Merrick. For nearly two years, the North Bellmore library team worked diligently to review, develop and implement innovative ini-
Luberto chalked up the accomplishment, in large part, to great teamwork.
“While our dedication to sustainable practices began long before pursuing certification in 2023, earning Certified Sustainable Library status serves as a testament to the resilience, dedication and teamCOnTinuED On PAgE 4
Pope Francis, revered spiritual leader, dies at 88
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Pope Francis, spiritual leader to nearly a billion Catholics around the globe, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. In the wake of his passing, Catholic leaders across Long Island — as well as members of the broader religious community — are sharing their reflections and tributes.
Bishop John Barres who leads the Archdiocese of Rockville Centre noted the works in his statement.
“As we mourn the death of Pope Francis on this Easter Octave Monday and the gift of his contemplative global evangelization grounded in Matthew 25 and the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, we give thanks to Father, Son and Holy Spirit for his unique graces and charisms and the compelling way during his Pontificate that he has been a Light of Jesus Christ and the mission of mercy of the Catholic Church to the world,” he said.
Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, and just before his 17th birthday, he was hurrying to meet friends when something directed him to go into the Basilica of St. Joseph in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and moved him to become a priest. He became an ordained Jesuit priest at 33 and the pope in 2013 —
Pope Francis, the spiritual leader to nearly a billion Catholics around the globe since 2013, has died at 88. Victoria Palumbo shared the above photo of the Pope, who she saw in St. Peter’s Square in April of 2017.
for indigenous people.
Kristina Hollywood of East Meadow told the Herald that she and her then-11year-old daughters, Anna and Ally, saw Pope Francis when he visited New York City in 2015. They waited for hours to catch of glimpse of him as he rode down 5th Avenue in his Popemobile. Hollywood is Methodist, but her daughters are Cath-
olic, she said.
“I became so unexpectedly emotional and was moved to tears, and my daughters, although very young at the time, also knew they were in the presence of an extraordinary, spiritual being who evoked hope, love, unity and inspiration,” Hollywood said. “He transcended all differences. He was a force, whose beliefs, compassion and values brought people of all walks of life, races, ethnicities and religions to respect and admire him.
“The world was extremely fortunate to have had him and his passing is a loss that can never be measured,” she added. “His life was a blessing for us all. I pray he will now be blessed with eternal life.”
“As a family of faith, we join the Church in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant, who led with compassion and simplicity, St. Raphael Parish in East Meadow posted on Facebook. “May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”
Victoria Palumbo shared with the Herald that she had the opportunity to attend an Easter mass at the Vatican in April of 2017. Pope Francis went right past her in St. Peter’s Square. Palumbo called the experience “amazing.”
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in North Merrick and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional Catholic School in Bellmore each shared prayers on their Facebook pages in response to the Pope’s
death, remarking on his influence and spiritual legacy.
State Sen. Steve Rhoads, the director of the youth ministry program at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church in Plainview, said Pope Francis was “a global spiritual leader and tireless advocate for peace, compassion and justice,” on Monday morning. “The celebration of Easter and the gift of the resurrection underscores the enduring message of hope,” he wrote on Facebook. “As we join our Catholic brothers and sisters and people of good will around the world in mourning the loss of Pope Francis, we take heart in Christ’s promise, secure in the knowledge that Francis has indeed returned home. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Phyllis Zagano Ph.D, is senior research associate-in-residence in the Department of Religion at Hofstra University. One of the world’s foremost experts on the question of women deacons and in 2016 was appointed to serve on Pope Francis’ first commission to look at this issue. She was the only commissioner to travel from the Western Hemisphere.
“Pope Francis will be remembered as
Courtesy Victoria Palumbo
Paint night: Color, compassion and community
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Paintbrushes met palettes at Sacred Heart Church on April 4 as families, friends, and community members came together for the third annual Paint Night, hosted by Julianna’s Works of HeART Foundation. But this wasn’t just any evening of creativity — it was a colorful display of compassion, powered by 13-year-old Julianna Tand’s unwavering mission to support Ronald McDonald House Charities.
It’s really been unbelievable watching what she accomplishes.
The night featured a guided painting class led by Julianna’s grandmother, Debbie Viola — a professional artist. Attendees of all ages filled the space, laughing, dabbing at their work with brush strokes. Raffles and prizes added excitement, but it was the cause behind it all that truly tied the evening together.
DEBBIE VIOLA
Julianna’s grandmother, paint instructor
Julianna, a seventh grader at Merrick Avenue Middle School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, is no stranger to organizing for a cause. In fact, she’s been at it for half her life.
Her journey began at age 6, when a handmade clay tribute to her grandparents’ wedding sparked overwhelming support online. Instead of simply basking in the praise, she turned that moment into a mission. “I couldn’t say no,” she recalled. “I decided to turn it into a business.”
But for Julianna, business has always meant giving back. Through her nonprofit foundation, she’s raised over $30,000 — every dollar donated directly to Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides essential services to families with hospitalized children.
“We are an organization that supports families holistically when their child is in the hospital,” said Cassandra Basile, director of marketing and public relations for Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro. Thanks to Julianna’s efforts, the Long Island facility in New Hyde Park even named a room in her honor.
Paint Night is a cornerstone event for the foundation — and a true family affair. Jennifer Tand, Julianna’s mom, works side-by-side with her daughter and mother to bring the event to life.
Viola’s artistic instruction gave even the most hesitant painters the confidence to participate — and her
joy in watching her granddaughter shine was palpable. “It’s really been unbelievable watching what she accomplishes,” Viola said. “From a couple of hundred dollars the first year to thousands and thousands — it’s incredible.”
Beyond the fundraising, the event also served as an opportunity for local students to earn community service hours — and perhaps more importantly, to see the impact of using their talents for good.
“It’s nice to see kids off their phones and doing community service together,” Jennifer noted. “They’re helping others, but they’re gaining something too.”
Julianna, for her part, remains humble and motivated. “I just imagine all these little kids smiling because they got a free meal, or that their parents don’t have to worry,” she said. “One kid can make a difference.”
To follow Julianna’s journey or get involved, visit Julianna’s Works of HeART on Facebook.
Tim Baker/Herald photos Julianna Tand of Julianna’s Works of HeART hosted her third annual paint night at Sacred Heart Church on April 4.
Julianna’s Workls of HeART raises money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Julianna with her mom, Jennifer, dad, Robert, and brother, Brandon.
Brianna Viola, 4, showed off her painting.
Julianna with her friends at the third annual paint night.
Kristin Pezzuto of Massapequa was among this year’s attendees, working on a sunset painting.
Will celebrate accomplishment on April 30
work that have driven our sustainability initiatives,” Luberto said. “This accomplishment would not have been possible without the efforts of our hard-working staff, guidance from our mentor, and the support of our community.”
At the heart of its sustainability efforts are community and partnership, the library said. This collaboration led to numerous sustainability efforts, including recycling more than 2,000 pounds of plastics and packaging in partnership with NexTrex, a program that collects and recycles plastic bags; hosting ongoing food drives with Island Harvest; collecting hundreds of pounds of food for the veteran food bank; donating hundreds of coats to the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless; and repurposing crayons for children in hospitals in partnership with the Crayon Initiative. The library also organized a park cleanup at Forest City Park in Wantagh; ran a Halloween costume shop where community members select-
ed pre-loved costumes; and distributed free trees for Earth Week through a partnership with the Neighborhood Forest tree program.
In addition, the library worked to promote biodiversity by adding a range of plants, native species and trees to its property. It also committed to minimizing outdoor light pollution through the installation of energy-efficient LED lights for pathway lighting, ensuring safety with minimal light emissions. The library also improved indoor air quality by regularly cleaning HVAC filters, using dehumidifiers to absorb air pollutants, and installing a filtered bottle filler to reduce plastic waste.
“The North Bellmore Public Library took a progressive approach to sustainability from the onset and continues to build on that solid foundation,” Debbie Engelhardt, sustainability certification program mentor, said. “The team’s energy, talent and creativity are evident. I’m excited to see what comes next.”
As part of ongoing initiatives, the library plans to
pilot a seedling library, plant a pollinator garden, and continue developing diverse programming and partnerships representative of its community.
“The certification underscores our ongoing commitment to creating a lasting, positive impact in North Bellmore, and we are excited to continue working together toward a sustainable and compassionate future,” Luberto said.
“I am confident that North Bellmore Public Library’s continued commitment to a sustainable future will make a difference for many years to come,” Tymecki added.
The library’s board of trustees and the library’s senior leadership will formally celebrate the recent designation on April 30 at 2 p.m., at the library.
For more information about the Sustainable Libraries Initiative, visit SustainableLibrariesInitiative.org. For more on the North Bellmore Public Library and its sustainability initiatives, visit NorthBellmoreLibrary. org/Sustainability.
Spousal Refusal - Just Say No
Spousal refusal is a legally valid Medicaid planning option in New York. By way of background, certain income and assets are exempt from Medicaid if there is a spouse. Generally, the spouse at home, known as the “community spouse” may keep about $3,950 per month of the couple’s combined income and up to about $158,000 of the assets or “resources”. Not included in those figures are any other exempt assets, such as a home (up to about $1,100,000 of the equity only) and one automobile. The spouse who is being cared for in a facility is known as the “institutionalized spouse”.
Many a spouse has advised us that they simply cannot afford to live on the allowances that Medicaid provides. This is where spousal refusal comes in. We start by shifting excess assets into the name of the “community spouse”. He or she then signs a document which the elder law attorney prepares and files with the county indicating that they refuse to contribute their income and assets to the care of the ill spouse since they need those income and assets for their own care and wellbeing. Note that you may not refuse your spouse’s own income over the $3,950 per month exemption as it is not coming to you.
Once the “community spouse” invokes their right to refuse, and all of the other myriad requirements of the Medicaid application are met, the state Medicaid program must pay for the care of the institutionalized spouse.
After Medicaid has been granted, the county may institute a lawsuit seeking to recover the cost of care from the refusing spouse. Nevertheless, there are a few reasons why spousal refusal makes sense, even in light of this risk. First, in many instances, the county never invokes this right. Secondly, these lawsuits are often settled for significantly less than the cost of care provided. Thirdly, the payment to the county can sometimes be deferred until the community spouse dies. As one county attorney told us when agreeing to such an arrangement, “the county is going to be around for a long time”. Finally, even though the county may seek recovery, it is only for the Medicaid reimbursement rate and not the private pay rate. For example, if the private pay rate is $18,000 per month, which is what you would have to pay, the amount Medicaid has to pay is generally a quarter to a third less. The county may only pursue you for the amount they actually paid.
Here’s how the library went ‘green’
Certification:
North Bellmore Public Library is the first public library in Nassau County to be certified through the Sustainable Libraries Initiative’s Sustainable Libraries Certification Program.
Key Initiatives:
■ Recycled over 2,000 pounds of plastic with NexTrex
■ Collected hundreds of coats and food donations for local charities
■ Repurposed crayons for hospitalized children
■ Organized a park cleanup and free tree giveaway
■ Promoted biodiversity with native plantings
■ Improved energy efficiency and indoor air quality
Join the library for a celebration of this achievement on April 30 at 2 p.m.
Learn more:
■ SustainableLibrariesInitiative.org
■ NorthBellmoreLibrary.org/Sustainability
ELIzaBETh pOIrOT
West Hempstead Senior Lacrosse
TO SAY POIROT is off to an incredible start would be an understatement. A year after leading Nassau County in goals with 74 to go along with 25 assists, she’s set a torrid pace so far and has the Rams at 4-3 entering this week’s action. She scored their last seven goals April 2 in a 13-11 victory over Freeport and has a county leading 41 goals and 53 points. In 2023 as a sophomore, she scored 45 times to rank amoung Nassau’s best.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, April 24
Softball: Freeport at Lynbrook ..............................4:30 p.m.
Baseball: South Side at New Hyde Park ...................5 p.m.
Baseball: Bethpage at East Meadow ........................5 p.m.
Baseball: MacArthur at Division ................................5 p.m.
Baseball: Mepham at Calhoun .................................5 p.m.
Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.
Softball: V.S. Central at West Hempstead ..................5 p.m.
Softball: Westbury at Hewlett ....................................5 p.m.
Softball: Mepham at Seaford ....................................5 p.m.
Softball: Wantagh at MacArthur ................................5 p.m.
Softball: Division at Plainedge ..................................5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at G. City (Mitchel Field) .....5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Hewlett .....................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at South Side ................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Massapequa at Wantagh ..................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: V.S. District at West Hempstead ........5 p.m.
Girls Flag Football: MacArthur at Lynbrook...........6:30 p.m.
Friday, April 25
Baseball: C.S. Harbor at East Rockaway ...................5 p.m.
Baseball: Oceanside at Freeport ...............................5 p.m.
Baseball: North Shore at Malverne ...........................5 p.m.
Baseball: Sewanhaka at Lawrence ...........................5 p.m.
Softball: Massapequa at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Calhoun nips Oceanside in thriller
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Two teams trying to navigate their way in the rugged Nassau boys’ lacrosse power conference hooked up for an intense roller coaster battle April 15 that wasn’t decided until less than a minute remained on the clock.
Host Oceanside fought back from a pair of three-goal deficits to pull even with Calhoun, but the Colts scored the eventual game-winner with 1:04 remaining in regulation when sophomore Brandon McCabe pounced on a loose ball 15 yards out and flicked a quick shot nobody saw coming for a 10-9 victory.
“It was an interesting game and I’m proud of how we responded and kept making plays,” Calhoun coach Jim Femminella said. “We’re a work in progress and getting better every game. Today was probably the most consistent four quarters we’ve strung together. Oceanside kept coming but our guys dug in.”
Junior first-year starting goalie Nick Greci starred with 16 saves and got offensive support from senior Harley Finkelstein (hat trick and one assist) and senior Ryan Burr and junior Nicholas Voll, who netted two goals apiece, as the Colts improved to 2-3. The Sailors (1-3) got three goals and one assist from junior Luke Miller and two goals apiece from juniors Brady Nardone and Ethan Famularo. Senior goalie Sam Feldbaum made 13 stops.
“We’re doing some good things every game but we’re also shooting ourselves in the foot too much,” Oceanside coach Mike Santisteban said. “Today we showed how tough we can be battling back, but our big issues were man-up and man-down. We didn’t take advantage of opportunities we need to capitalize on.”
The first half was chippy with both teams drawing six penalties. Calhoun, which never trailed, scored 7 seconds in when senior Braden Garvey converted a pass from sophomore Michael Nicholson, who won the opening draw. Each team managed a power play goal in the
first quarter (Nardone and Burr, respectively), but the Colts built a 6-3 lead early in the second on a dynamic behind-the-back shot by Voll and killed off a two-man down situation with senior Lucas Porcaro, junior Andrew Nill and freshman Jonathan Ruisi leading the defense in front of Greci.
“Nick came into the season with big shoes to fill and he’s stepped up,” Femminella said of Greci.
Famularo got Oceanside within 6-4 at halftime and the Sailors opened the second half strong with a fantastic solo effort by Miller to make it 6-5 and the tying goal off the stick of senior Andrew Dato.
Calhoun re-rallied and scored three of the next four goals and led 9-7 with 8:25 remaining thanks to junior Jake Condela’s tally. Back came Oceanside with freshman Dylan Parker cutting the deficit in half and Famularo netting the equalizer with 1:27 left.
Porcaro blocked a shot late to secure the victory for the Colts, who were coming off losses to defending state Class B and D champions South Side and Cold Spring Harbor, respectively.
It was the second straight one-goal setback for Oceanside, which opened the campaign with an 8-1 win over Locust Valley with Nardone and Dato recording four points apiece.
Eric Dunetz/Herald
Defender Jonathan Riusi and the Colts fought off a pair of Oceanside rallies and held on for a 10-9 road victory April 15.
Town hall
Laura Gillen answers questions on taxes and tariffs at Hofstra
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen answered the questions that are on hundreds of Nassau County residents’ minds at a town hall event on April 16. Gillen, who represents a large swath of the county’s South Shore, initially spoke about her current projects in Washington. But the majority of the meeting was a questionand-answer session, with questions submitted on index cards by audience members.
Q: How will Gillen work with Republicans to eliminate the cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes?
Gillen: She is a member of the bipartisan SALT Caucus, a
Ways and Means Committee, which dictates tax policy. She co-sponsored a bill with fellow Long Island Rep. Andrew Garbarino to reinstate the full SALT deduction.
Q: How will she protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid?
Gillen: “I (joined) 200 of my colleagues in writing a letter to the administration saying that we will not tolerate cuts to Social Security, to Medicaid or to Medicare,” she said.
“We can use our voice,” she continued. “You can use your voice also to reach out to Republicans on Long Island and tell them that you will not stand for these cuts to Medicaid, and put pressure on them so that maybe they will retreat
do to oppose President Trump’s “illegal removal of migrants”?
Gillen: “I, like the majority of Americans, do believe that people who are undocumented and who commit crimes should be deported,” she said.
The main problem, according to Gillen, is that the administration is not following orders from the judiciary. “I support our Constitution,” she said. “I will fight
are upheld, and will work with my colleagues in Congress to push back against overreach of the executive branch.”
Q: How is she working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to keep it operational?
Gillen: She is a member of the Science, Space and Technology Committee. “I continue to advocate to make sure that we
on our caucus against any action to reduce the ability of the CDC to perform its important work,” she said.
A theme that Gillen emphasized was bipartisanship — whether with members of the administration, or with representatives across the aisle, she emphasized her desire to cooperate for the best results.
Q: Why hasn’t Congress stepped in to prevent a trade war?
Gillen: She supports a new bipartisan bill, the Trade Policy Relief Act, which would “reassert Congress’s authority over trade policy.” The bill would give Congress the authority to review any tariff policies implemented by the administration for 60 days, and to cancel a tariff it does not consider justified.
Q: Why did sheen vote for the Laken Riley Act?
Gillen: “Homeland Security has the right to detain undocumented folks who commit crimes,” she said of the act, which gives federal authorities broader power to deport immigrants accused of crimes. “This expanded the types of crimes that could require mandatory
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen spoke to hundreds of her constituents about the state of the country at a town hall event at Hofstra University on April 16.
Sixth Battalion to host ‘Touch-A-Truck’
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
In response to the urgent need for more volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service members, Nassau County’s Sixth Battalion is hosting its third annual “Touch-A-Truck” recruitment and community awareness event on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at East Meadow High School, 101 Carman Ave., in East Meadow.
The Sixth Battalion is composed of 10 volunteer fire departments — Bellmore, East Meadow, Levittown, Massapequa, Merrick, North Bellmore, North Massapequa, North Merrick, Seaford and Wantagh — and is supported by the Bellmore-Merrick and Wantagh-Levittown volunteer ambulance corps.
“Touch-A-Truck” is free and open to the public. It serves as a hands-on opportunity for residents 18 and older to learn how they can join and support their local volunteer fire departments and ambulance squads. Children are also welcome to attend and explore a variety of emergency vehicles and equipment, and meet the volunteers who dedicate their time to public safety.
The event is part of the Firefighters Association of the State of New York’s
RecruitNY Weekend which aims to combat declining volunteer membership and rising service demands statewide. Each of the 10 departments in the Sixth Battalion will hold individual recruitment events on Sunday, April 27, as a follow-up to expand outreach at the local level.
“Recruitment and retention are critical to the future of the volunteer fire service,” said Chief Matt Giudice of the Levittown Fire Department, who also serves as chairperson of the Sixth Battalion. “By working together as a battalion, we amplify our outreach and strengthen the pipeline of dedicated individuals ready to serve their communities. ‘Touch-A-Truck’ is a testament to the power of unity and collaboration.”
Officials note that, in addition to the personal satisfaction that comes with volunteering, there are several benefits available to members, including local property-tax exemptions, state income-tax incentives, scholarships for Nassau Community College students, free training and health checkups, and a length-of-service award program that provides a monthly stipend based on years of service.
Many volunteers also use the training and experience gained to pursue professional careers in emergency services, including firefighting, law enforcement and medicine.
Tim Baker/Herald
Nassau County’s Sixth Battalion is set to host its third annual Touch-A-Truck event on April 26. Above, Theodore Sullivan of Bellmore had fun checking out trucks at a similar event held in Merrick.
Easter fun in full bloom at Saint John Lutheran Church
Saturday was the perfect spring day to get outside and hunt for Easter eggs — and there was no better place to do it than at Saint John Lutheran Church’s annual Children’s Easter Celebration. With blue skies, warm sunshine, and a joyful atmosphere, the Bellmore-Merrick community came together in large numbers on April 19 for a festive morning packed with excitement, laughter, and sweet surprises.
Families from across the area gathered on the church grounds bright and early, eager to kick off the celebration with a delicious breakfast alongside the Easter Bunny himself. Many children arrived dressed in their Easter best — colorful pastels, spring dresses, bunny ears perched atop their heads, and baskets ready for action.
After breakfast, it was time for the main event: the egg hunt. Once the signal was given, children collected scattered with brightly colored plastic eggs, each one stuffed with candy and other tiny treasures. The celebration was not just about candy — it was a chance for neighbors to connect, families to enjoy quality time, and children to create joyful memories during one of the most beloved spring traditions.
Saint John Lutheran Church’s event continues to be a cherished highlight for the community, reminding everyone of the joy and togetherness that Easter brings.
— Jordan Vallone
Steve Sachs/Herald photos
Hailey Gregoretti, 6, partook in Easter festivities at Saint John Lutheran Church during the Children’s Easter Celebration.
Eric, Ashley and Lori Vanderwaren with Benji Acevedo, 5, during a breakfast session with the Easter
The Rev. Kerry Kirshbaum showed off his basket brewing with Easter eggs.
Jocelyn Rose, 3, Jerard Drewes, Cole, 7, Noah, 4, Maverick 6, and Pam Drews had a blast at the Easter Celebration, which included a breakfast and egg hunt outdoors.
Nathan Young, 5, had a basketball full of eggs.
things to know Long isLAnD toURisM
Discover Long Island gears up for busy tourism season
Discover Long Island, the marketing organization promoting Long Island to the world, held its annual meeting and legislative breakfast at Hilton Long Island on March 14.
Discover LI presented its agenda for the year and premiered its new YouBelong campaign, featuring stories of local Long Islanders and business owners. “2025 is already proving to be a monumental year, and there is much more on the horizon,” said Mitchell Pally, chairman of the Discover LI board of directors.
In 2023, travelers spent $7.5 billion while visiting Long Island, in large part as a result of Discover Long Island’s global marketing of the region as a premier travel destination. With events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby” and the 2026 NHL All-Star Game, Long Island is expecting an unprecedented number of visitors in the coming months.
–Madison Gusler
The role of tourism in boosting the local economy
The goal of Discover LI is to increase tourism in the region, because tourism drives revenue across the Island. Over 42 million tourists visited Long Island in 2023, generating $900 million in local and state tax revenue. During peak season, tourism generates over 100,000 jobs.
With 11 social media channels and over 10 million followers, Discover LI promotes Long Island tourism to audiences around the globe.
Targeting high-value international visitors and promoting local exploration
Discover LI’s team attends tourism trade shows around the world to promote Long Island internationally. They target high-value visitors who spend more when they visit. When travelers come to LI from outside the region, they spend on hotels, dining and activities.
And Discover LI isn’t ignoring residents, featuring hyper-local marketing that aims to acquaint Long Islanders with new experiences in their own backyards.
Discover LI’s digital advances, with NearMe app and AI implementation
Discover LI has made strides in digital options for those planning a visit. Its AI chatbot, LiLi, was launched in 2024, and has since sent 6,071 messages. LiLi speaks a number of languages, and has saved Discover LI staff more than 200 hours of work.
The Discover LI app, which has seen a 300 percent increase in downloads since 2024, generates suggestions for dining and entertainment near users and provides information about the area. There is also a section of the website that allow users to buy tickets for various events without leaving the Discover LI page.
Herald gala celebrates L.I.’s top lawyers
Legal excellence and community service are honored at Heritage Club gathering of 300
By Brian Norman
Some of Long Island’s top attorneys were honored for their professional achievements and community contributions at the 2025 Herald Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala at the Heritage Club in Bethpage on April 8.
More than 300 people attended the gala, where 50 of Long Island’s top attorneys, nominated by their peers, were recognized for their professional excellence and dedication to their communities.
Before the awards ceremony, attorneys gathered for a cocktail hour, where they had the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow honorees and colleagues.
Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., opened the ceremony by thanking all of those who were in attendance for their dedication to their professions and the people they serve. “Lawyers are pivotal in navigating business and personal matters, and we admire the commitment that our honorees have to their clients and all of the institutions they serve,” Richner said.
He added that a portion of the proceeds from the gala would be donated to the WE CARE fund, the charitable arm of the Nassau County Bar Association. The gala attracted representatives from law firms across Long Island. Among those honored were Minevich Law Group, Villacorta Law Group, JAG Law Group, Schroder & Storm LLP, and Meyer Suozzi Attorneys at Law.
Thomas A. Kenniff, a criminal defense attorney and founding partner of Raiser & Kenniff P.C., was the keynote speaker. He detailed his high-profile defense of Marine veteran Daniel Penny last year, when the Long Island native was acquitted of homicide charges stemming from a fatal subway confrontation with a man who had a history of violent behavior.
Kenniff said he was humbled to speak in front of the gala honorees, and honored to be recognized by his peers as the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.
“It’s very humbling, and it’s difficult to speak and be recognized by a crowd of this caliber,” he said. “You look around the room and see first-class attorneys, household names in the legal industry, and you can’t help but ask yourself, ‘Why me?’ It’s a tremendous honor.”
Nicholas Papain, director and managing member of Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C., was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Papain, who has spent his entire career with the firm since joining it in 1978, has been a personal injury lawyer for 47 years. He has represented families of first responders to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and played a key role in securing a $700 million settlement for rescue and recovery workers.
“I represent people who have been
Hundreds attended to celebrate award winners recognition.
catastrophically injured, and offer them, through our work for them, some financial security for the losses that they have suffered,” Papain said. “It’s a huge honor, I am very humbled by it, I am very appreciative of it, and I am fortunate to be in this position.”
Other honorees included Svetlana Minevich, of the Minevich Law Group, named top health care attorney; Eduardo M. Villacorta, of Villacorta Law Group, recognized as top immigration attorney; and Marjorie Mesidor, of Mesidor PLLC, honored as top employ-
ment discrimination attorney. Mesidor said that to be recognized for what she does drives her to do well. “To be recognized for the work that you are doing is always a great motivator, particularly in times like these, where you feel like there is a lot going on in our country both socially and politically and in the legal field,” Mesidor said. “So this helps to put a little gas in your tank, so to speak, and encourages me to keep going.”
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP was among the firms with multiple members
The Schroder and Strom, LLP team, Allison Brewi (left), Nicolette MainiMoligano, Robert Goldstein, Esq., Edward Mohlenhoff, Esq., Anthony Forzaglia, Esq., Honorees Joseph C. Packard, Esq. and Christopher P. Byrnes Esq., Jeremy May, Esq., Asad Jilani, Michael Spellman, Esq. (right).
honored, and was recognized as the Top Law Firm on Long Island for the seventh consecutive year. Managing Partner Joseph G. Milizio said that it was a great feeling to receive the award at this point in his career.
“This award is an honor, and it means that I am at a stage in my career where I am able to be recognized for the things that I have done,” he said, “and that is a great feeling.”
For a full list of honorees and to view more pictures please visit: RichnerLive. com/toplawyerawards.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Deborah A. Kelly, Esq. from Mejias, Milgrim, Alvarado, & Lindo, P.C.
Marjorie Mesidor from Mesidor PLLC.
Platinum Sponsor, Eduardo M. Villacorta, Esq. from Villacorta Law Group.
Courtesy Nixon Peabody
Allan Cohen (left), Honorees, Ashley Mistretta, Neil Diskin, and Christopher J. Moro (right) pose for photo representing their firm, Nixon Peabody LLP.
Honorable Joseph Spinola from Resolute Systems, LLC.
Anthony A. Nozzolillo Esq. accepts his award for Real Estate Law.
Jason A. Greenberg, Esq. from JAG Law Group.
Laurette D. Mulry accepts her award for her work with Legal Aid of Suffolk County, Inc.
Matthew T. McDonough, Esq. CRE accepts his award for Municipal Law.
Charles Skop from Meyer Suozzi, English, and Klein, P.C.
Ellen N. Savino from Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano PLLC. Neil Diskin Esq. from Nixon Peabody.
Kathryn C. Cole from Greenberg Traurig.
Michael S. Amato from Ruskin Mosco Faltischek, P.C.
Platinum Sponsor, Svetlana Minevich from Minevich Law Group, P.C.
Amy E. Bedell from Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP.
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
The Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP team, Roy Schwartz (left), Joseph Trotti, Katherin Valdez-Lazo, Theresa DeStasio, Honorees Joseph G. Milizio and Kristine Garcia-Elliott, Helen L. Tuckman, and Philip Hornberger. (right).
Nicholas Papain from Sullivan, Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C.
Tournament helps students become readers
to Merrick.
Giusto is a sixth grade teacher and an avid reader, sharing her passion with the next generation.
“My students know about my love of books,” she said.
March Book Madness proved to be a success, according to Giusto, whose students showed a deep level of engagement with the competition.
“It actually just made for such great conversation,” she said. “We didn’t put them in the order, but they would say, ‘Oh, we read these two books, I wonder why they paired these two?’”
Students compared and contrasted books based on word count, theme and plot. While only one book emerged victorious, every text served as a valuable lesson tool, Park Avenue educators said. One of the most important takeaways from the tournament was the students’ ability to disagree with civility and think critically about their opinions.
In addition to March Book Madness, Giusto keeps the energy high year round.
“We also do First Chapter Friday, where I read the first chapter of a book to them every Friday, just to keep introducing new books over and over,” she said.
Joseph D’Alessandro /Herald
Sixth graders rocco merlo, left, dylan Crocenzi, talia azzata, giuliana ferraro and parker Koutsis were among the students who voted in the tournament. above, they hold some of their favorite books from the year.
These regular reading programs play an important role in maintaining reading habits while young people continue to grow.
“I teach sixth graders,” Giusto said, “they’re older, they have a lot going on in their lives, and reading tends to be the thing that gets pushed to the side most often.
“For me to make time to enjoy reading books during their day is important
•
Some classes alternated between audiobooks and read-aloud methods worked into their usual daily class routines.
Francolina is the district’s library media specialist, helping to provide books to elementary schools in Merrick.
“For some of my classes, I have shown them some of the books and, I think, maybe this will even grow into other schools within the district,” she said.
Two books — the winner of the competition and “The Boy Who Said Wow” by Todd Boss — were two of Francolina’s favorites in the competition, introducing students to cultural and culinary history, as well as autism awareness.
As an educator, Francolina’s goal is to create enthusiastic readers, problem solvers and critical thinkers.
“I think exposing them to these books does all of those things,” she said. “They get so excited, especially when they are making those personal connections, or see themselves reflected in a book and learn about things that they didn’t even know existed.”
because they go home, they have sports, they have religion, they have homework, they have all these other things that they have to do,” she explained. “This gives them the chance to just remember they love reading.”
This marks the first year Park Avenue has put a plan like this into action.
Practicing what they preach, Park Avenue staff members participate in their own book club.
“We’re reading ‘The Energy Bus’ by Jon Gordon,” Coyle said. “It’s really great to talk about the 10 rules of life, and it applies not only professionally, but personally.”
STEPPING OUT
An Evening with Misty Copeland
By Karen Bloom
pring is calling — and there’s no better place to answer than at Old Westbury Gardens. As blooms burst into color and we shake off winter — and early spring’s chill — the beloved 200-acre historic estate is the perfect place to be.
Now a few weeks into its re-opening, this idyllic landmark is ready to enchant visitors with its lush gardens, a refreshed Westbury House and a calendar packed with events and activities. And this momentous season marks the conclusion of its 65th anniversary year as a public garden and historic home.
For Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens’ president and horticulturist extraordinaire, the milestone continues to carry a deep meaning.
“Our anniversary year is still ongoing and we have so much to offer,” she says. “And we’re excited about the event we have planned for the 100th anniversary of ‘The Great Gatsby’ being published.”
Gatsby enthusiasts will have to wait for fall to celebrate iconic novel. In the meantime, there’s so much to enjoy — right now.
“When the gardens first opened to the public, it was Peggy Phipps and her friends who helped usher in that new chapter. Sixty-five years later, we’re still here, thriving,” Brush says. It’s a real testament to how loved these gardens are.”
Indeed, it’s not just about surviving — it’s about flourishing. The estate, once home to prominent lawyer John Shaffer Phipps, draws record numbers of visitors and members alike, year after year, enticed by its historic charm and horticultural magic.
And that magic begins the moment you step through the gates.
“All winter long you’re sort of just looking for any signs of life in the garden,” Brush says, about the transition to spring.
“The smallest snowdrop or crocus means the world. And then when you hit this time of year it feels like I can take a walk in the garden in the morning, and by the afternoon something else has sprung up. I love that the garden really changes almost day to day.”
One of her favorite early spring spots? The serene lakeside.
“In the early part of the season, the lake areas are just
Old Westbury Gardens sets its sights on the exciting conclusion of a milestone anniversary year
stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the
stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the sunlight dances on the water,” she says.
Keep your eyes open for some of the garden’s wildest residents: turtles sunning on logs, ducks gliding and birdsong echoing through the trees.
“This time of year you start to see the turtles more,” she notes. “The logs are filled with those turtles trying to get their Vitamin D, getting any sun they can.”
Just like us.
• Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Another mustvisit is the delightful Primrose Path, at its peak in April through mid-May. Here, you’ll find delicate primroses in vibrant hues, forget-me-nots and a scattering of ephemerals — in an expression seasonal joy.
As spring progresses, Old Westbury Gardens transforms week by week. Daffodils, fritillaria, tulips, and more unfurl in careful succession, planned and planted by Brush’s dedicated team.
Of course, you’ll want to head over to the Walled Garden where tulips are in spring’s spotlight.
“The tulips change every year. What we really try to do is create a display that starts with the very early spring tulips and goes to the late bloomers,” Brush explains.
Some appear in early April while others flower closer to May, or even in the middle of May.
“We take a lot of pride in the tulip display,” she continues. “The combinations are very thoughtful. We’ll find a tulip that we really like and then we’ll try to find a pansy or some other annual that has some colors that bring out the tulip’s color and coordinate with that tulip. One row might be very ‘hot’ with ambers and yellows and oranges and then the center aisle will be very ‘cool’ with pale pink and silvery blues and purples. The Walled Garden is a masterpiece.”
Each year Old Westbury Gardens offers a soul-refreshing way to celebrate spring’s return. Plus the extensive schedule of programs enhances its surroundings — and its rich heritage.
“I am especially proud of the dynamic public programming we have curated,” Brush says.“Beloved favorites like Dog Days and Midsummer Nights return, alongside exciting new additions. From inspiring art programs and wellness, we always have a rich roster of programming because that’s who we are.
“It’s a legacy to the Phipps family that their lovely home is so enjoyed by so many people. I think that’s what Peggy envisioned when she so generously gifted Old Westbury Gardens. She had a very happy childhood and life here. Her vision was she would be able to share some of that with the generations to come after her.
And that’s exactly what she’s done.”
So go ahead — let spring sweep you away. The gates are open, the flowers are blooming and it’s all more spectacular than ever.
Experience an intimate and inspiring night with Misty Copeland, the trailblazing ballerina who made history as the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. Hear her incredible journey, from overcoming obstacles to becoming a global icon in the dance world and beyond. Copeland has often spoken out about being “different” in the ballet scene. From living in a motel to dancing on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House, her story of perseverance through poverty, racism, and overcoming setbacks from injury has made Copeland an inspiring figure to millions. She is joined in conversation by screenwriterauthor-producer Susan Fales-Hill. She reflects on lessons learned, the remarkable mentors who have guided her on her path and her hopes and aspirations for the future. Also enjoy a performance by members of the prestigious ABT Studio Company, media from Misty’s legendary and trailblazing career, and some surprises, including students of Copeland’s Be Bold program, her groundbreaking afterschool dance initiative.
Saturday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Jessie’s Girl
Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those wild days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/ pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Jessie’s Girl has mastered over-the-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. Theater meets live music — covered with a load of ‘80s glitz.
Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. $49.50, $37.50, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Photos courtesy Old Westbury Gardens Old Westbury Gardens enchants visitors with brilliant pops of color.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
APR
25
On Exhibit Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the wellreceived 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.
•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: Also April 27, April 30-May 1, times vary
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Kids Fest
Merrick Chamber of Commerce hosts its 28th Annual Kids Fest, Friday through Sunday, April 27.
•Where: Merrick Avenue& Broadcast Plaza (LIRR Station)
•Time: Festival opens Friday at 6 p.m., followed by vendor fair on Saturday and Sunday
•Contact: MerrickChamber.com
Seed Swap!
APR 26
Bring extra seeds to the Merrick Library and engage in a fun swap with fellow gardeners. Seeds must be labeled with the plant name and the year they were harvested or purchased.
•Where: 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick
• Time: 11:30 a.m.
•Contact: merricklibrary.com
MAY
2
Pink Talking Fish
Locomotion,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and many more. $40, $35 seniors.
•Where: Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont.
•Time: 2 p.m.
•Contact: plazatheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870
MAY
Join Women’s Connection LI
1
Interested in joining Women’s Connection LI? Visit The Merrick Golf Course Clubhouse to learn more about the organization. Free admission, advanced registration required.
•Where: 2550 Clubhouse Road, Merrick
•Time: 12:45 p.m.
•Contact: Email Debbie@ Vixen1.com for more
Breastfeeding Support Group
Earth Day Beach Cleanup
Celebrate Earth Day at beautiful Sands Preserve Preserve! Join the efforts to help prevent plastic and other harmful materials from polluting our oceans and help keep the preserve’s shoreline clean. Bring your own gloves, all other materials will be provided. No registration is required. All beach cleanup volunteers receive free admission to the Preserve, as a thank you for their help in this important mission.
•Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point
•Time: noon-2 p.m.
•Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 570-2185 or email info@sandspointpreserve. org
Giada Valenti’s ‘From Italy with Love’
Enjoy an evening of romantic songs in English, Italian and Spanish at the Madison Theatre. This exquisite concerts celebrates the enchantment of Italy, showcasing the captivating persona and velvety vocals of Giada Valenti. Her voice evokes memories of Celine Dion’s powerful vocals blended with the charm of Edith Piaf,
accompanied by remarkable special guests. Hailing from Venice, Giada promises an unforgettable performance filled with passion, emotion, and pure musical artistry. From the hauntingly beautiful “The Prayer” to the romantic “A Place for Us” from Romeo and Juliet, she mesmerizes with stunning interpretations of beloved tunes.
•Where: Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
•Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
APR 27
‘The Great Gatsby’ Anniversary Party
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of iconic novel “The Great Gatsby” at Merrick Library.
•Where: 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick
• Time: Starts at 2 p.m.
•Contact: merricklibrary.com
Hangout One Happy
Place Autism Walk
Participate in the annual autism awareness walk at Baldwin
•Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington
• Time: 8 p.m.
•Contact: landmarkonmainstreet.org.
Three mammoth bands. Three musical phenomenons. One idea inspired by love of the music. That’s Pink Talking Fish. The hybrid tribute fusion act takes the music from three iconic bands creating a remarkable musical jam. PTF brings their unique sound to the Landmark on Main Street stage, on their latest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incredible Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here.” This show consists of two sets. The first will be a full rendition of this epic album from start to finish, with “Classic PTF” combinations in the second set. “Wish You Were Here” is extremely meaningful to the band members and so many music lovers around the world and PTF is thrilled to bring this album to life in 2025. Although the music from each act is different, PTF has discovered that fusing the material together creates an amazing story. The epic emotion of Pink Floyd; the funky, danceable layerings of The Talking Heads; the styles, unique compositional structures and pure fun of Phish — to merge these three into one gives music lovers a special experience. Tickets are $49 and $46.
Harbor Park. With entertainment, dancing, a raffle, and arts and crafts activities.
•Where: 3232 Grand Ave.
•Time: 1 p.m.
•Contact: HangoutOneHappyPlace.com
APR
30
Holocaust Remembrance Day with Vince Marmorale
Vincent Marmorale, producer of the film, “My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes,” appears at the Merrick Road Golf Course Clubhouse for Holocaust Remembrance Day.
•Where: 2550 Clubhouse Road, Merrick
•Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 292-9000
Feel
the beat with Carole’s Kings
Plaza Theatricals continues its tribute series with a lively look at the Carole King songbook. The iconic singer-songwriter gets a brand-new sound with Carole’s Kings, the world’s first all-male Carole King tribute. This dynamic performance is jam-packed with chart-topping sensations such as “The
Mercy Hospital offers a peerto-peer breastfeeding support group facilitated by a certified counselor. Open to new moms with babies from newborn to 1 year. Registration required.
•Where: St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre.
•Time: 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
•Contact: Call Gabriella Gennaro at (516) 705-2434
MAY
2
Long Island Marathon Weekend
The Long Island Marathon and additional races return to Eisenhower Park with three days packed with races for runners of all ages and abilities, through May 4.
Having an event? Items on The Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
Nassau County Police Department's
100TH
STREET PARADE including
• Block Party
• Live Music
• Antique Cars
• Horses
• Motorcycles
• Pipe Bands
• Helicopter Flyover and so much more!
PARADE STEP-OFF: 2:00pm
STARTING POINT: Wantagh Avenue at Beltagh Avenue in Wantagh
ENDING POINT:
Beech Street and Park Avenue. Block party will take place at Railroad Avenue immediately after from 3:00pm-8:00pm.
SUNDAY, APRIL 27TH 2:00PM
Rain date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
April 24, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
GREEN TREE
SERVICING LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST ELIZABETH VITALE, JACK GANDOLFO, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 27, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 2, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 46 Shaw Drive, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at North Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 56, Block A02, Lot 12A-12B. Approximate amount of judgment $614,616.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #007977/2014.
Richard Lunenfeld, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-001468 84959 152569
LEGAL NOTICE
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU ELM CAPITAL LLC v. ISABEL D. KATZ (Index No. 607286/2024)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 24, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 9th day of May, 2025 at 2:00 PM (“Rain or Shine”):
All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being, and identified on the land tax map of the County of Nassau in the State of New York as Section 55, Block 2, Lot 914. Said premises are known as 1533 Richard Ave., Merrick NY 11566. The approximate amount of the lien is $6,657.76 plus interest and costs.
ALL CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE DIRECTLY TO CHRISTINE M. GRILLO, ESQ., AS REFEREE. THE REFEREE WILL NOT ACCEPT THIRD PARTY CHECKS OR CASH. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.
Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee
Joseph Ehrenreich, Esq., Attorney for Plaintiff; Tel. 833-993-0100. 152783
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. WILLIAM GROSS, et al, Defts. Index #614605/2019. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered May 2, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 13, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 62, Block 211, Lot 17. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale WILLIAM R. BOCCIO, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Drive, Great Neck, NY. #102225 152844
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. CAZ R.E. HOLDINGS, INC., Pltf. vs. JOSEPH SIMON MUSSO, et al, Defts. Index #602619/2021. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Sept. 17. 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 1370 Noel Court, Merrick, NY 11566 a/k/a Section 55, Block 526, Lot 24. Approximate amount of judgment is $240,079.20 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. BRIAN J. DAVIS, Referee. MARGOLIN,
WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Ste. 224, Syosset, NY 11791. #102217 152842
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT.
NASSAU COUNTY. WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND
SOCIETY, FSB, Pltf. vs. CIRO CINIGLIO, et al, Defts. Index #607176/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Aug. 15, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 108 Kenny Ave., Merrick, NY 11566 a/k/a Section 63, Block 133, Lot 14. Approximate amount of judgment is $320,426.23 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. JANE P. SHRENKEL, Referee. BALLARD SPAHR, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 1675 Broadway, 19th Floor, New York, NY 10019. #102250 152982
LEGAL NOTICE BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE TO BIDDERS VENDOR
Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Education, Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, Merrick, New York at the Business Office, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York 11566-1500, for the following categories up to the times on the dates indicated: Bread, Rolls, Bagels May 6, 2025 10:00 am School Lunch Printing and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud. All information for the bidders, specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the abovementioned address.
The Board of Education, BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, reserves the right to waive any informalities in, or reject any and all bids, or to accept that bid, or any part of that bid, which in its judgement is for the best interests of the School District. All bid awards are
pending budget approval.
The School District may receive bids for the above listed items periodically during the 2025-2026 school year if necessary. These bids will not be readvertised for this purpose. The frequency of bid solicitations will be determined by operating requirements.
By order: Board of Education
Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District
By: Joanne Finelli 153117
LEGAL NOTICE
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
BELLMORE U.F.S.D.
MERRICK U.F.S.D.
NORTH BELLMORE
U.F.S.D.
NORTH MERRICK U.F.S.D.
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU
NOTICE TO BIDDERS:
In accordance with provision of Section 103 of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Transportation Consortium hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for: Bellmore-Merrick Cooperative Summer 2025 Bid
Bellmore-Merrick Cooperative 2025-2026 School Year Bid
Bids will be publicly opened and read at the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Business Office, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York, on Wednesday, May 7, 2024, at 10:00 am.
Specifications and Bid Forms may be obtained from the office of Tom Volpe, Director of Transportation, between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.
The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any informalities in or to reject in whole or in part all bids or to accept any bid which in its judgment is in the best interest of the school district.
By order: Board of Education
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
BELLMORE U.F.S.D.
MERRICK U.F.S.D.
NORTH BELLMORE
U.F.S.D.
NORTH MERRICK
U.F.S.D. 153118
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NORTH MERRICK, NEW YORK 11566
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT HEREBY INVITES THE SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS FOR THE FOLLOWING: EXTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES RFP SPECIFICATIONS MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE BELLMOREMERRICK CHSD BUSINESS OFFICE LOCATED AT 1260 MEADOWBROOK ROAD, NORTH MERRICK, NY 11566 OR BY E-MAILING A REQUEST TO: MSTILES@BELLMOREMERRICK.K12.NY.US IN ALL CASES CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS OF THE BELLMOREMERRICK CHSD SHALL APPLY. SEALED PROPOSALS MUST BE MARKED, “EXTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES RFP”, AND WILL BE RECEIVED UNTIL 11:00 A.M. ON May 16, 2025, AT THE BELLMOREMERRICK CHSD BUSINESS OFFICE LOCATED AT 1260 MEADOWBROOK ROAD, NORTH MERRICK, NY. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CONSIDER QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND REPUTATION IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT AUDITING SERVICES FIELD, AS WELL AS THE SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS OF A PROPOSER SET OUT HEREIN, IN CONSIDERING PROPOSALS AND AWARDING THE CONTRACT. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RESERVES ALL RIGHTS AND MAY REJECT ANY OR ALL PROPOSALS AS IT MAY DEEM APPROPRIATE TO DO SO. BY ORDER: BOARD OF EDUCATION BELLMORE-MERRICK CHSD BY: MELISA STILES PURCHASING AGENT DATED: April 24, 2025 153116
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
NASSAU COUNTY
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS
TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2019-02, Plaintiff against 18 HELENE AVE LLC; EDDYLI ROSARIO, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered February 3, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 18 Helene Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. Sec 56 Block 448 Lot 3. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,433,972.34 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 610604/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Joy Bunch, Esq., Referee File # 22-000061-01 153085
To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING, ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTION AND REGISTRATION OF VOTERS, MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND MERRICK PUBLIC LIBRARY
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that a public budget hearing of the
Merrick Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, will be held at the Lakeside Elementary School, Merrick, New York on May 6, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. for the purpose of discussion of the expenditure of funds for the 2025-2026 school year and the budgeting thereof and for such other business as is authorized by the Education Law of the State of New York.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a public budget hearing of the Merrick Library will be held at the Merrick Library, Merrick, New York on April 29, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussion of the expenditure of funds for the 20252026 fiscal year and the budgeting thereof and for such other business as is authorized by the Education Law of the State of New York.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the vote upon the appropriation of the necessary funds to meet the estimated expenditures of said school district and library for the 20252026 school year (school budget and library budget) will be held at the annual meeting of said school district on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at the Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, New York. Voting shall take place between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Voting machines will be used for voting at said annual election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that an election to fill two (2) vacancies, each for a term of three (3) years for the office of member of the Board of Education and one (1) vacancy for a term of five (5) years for the office of trustee of the Library Board will be held at the Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, New York, on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The polls for voting at said election will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a proposition will appear on the ballot to read substantially as follows: Shall the Board be authorized to expend $4,800,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 21, 2019 for the purpose of performing the following projects: Roof replacement at the Birch and Lakeside Elementary
Schools, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the school year 2025-2026 for school purposes and library purposes may be obtained by any resident of the district during the fourteen (14) days preceding the vote, except Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays, at the schools of the district from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
NOTICE IS
FURTHER GIVEN, Pursuant to Chapter 258 of the Laws of 2008, Section 495 was added to the Real Property Tax Law and requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation. The report will list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and will show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll, the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) or other payments for municipal services, and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. This exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on the website maintained by the District.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education must be filed with the Clerk of the District between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., and no later than 5:00 p.m., Monday, April 21, 2025. Such nominating petition must be signed by at least forty-two (42) qualified voters of the district for election to the Board of Education. The candidates receiving the highest number of votes will be elected to office. Personal registration is a prerequisite for voting at all elections
Public Notices
in this school district, and no person will be entitled to vote at such election whose name does not appear upon the register prepared for such election; except that any person, a resident of the district, who is permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections to vote at elections other than a school district election and whose registration is current, shall also be qualified to vote at this election without further registration.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the District Clerk will be in the District Office in said district on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. for the purpose of preparing the register of the school district for such election; at such time and place, any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed upon such register provided that he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be entitled to vote at the meeting or election for which such register is to be prepared. Qualified individuals may also register between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on days when school is in session at the schools of the district, except that no registration shall take place less than five (5) days preceding the election, this year May 15, 2025.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Board of Registration will meet on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, New York, between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. to prepare the Register of the School District to be used for meetings or elections held subsequent to the annual School District election and budget vote, at which time any person may be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which said Register is so prepared.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the register thus prepared will be filed in the office of the Superintendent of Schools and that such register will be open
for inspection to any qualified voter of the district at the office of the Superintendent of Schools and the District Clerk in the Katherine E. Reif Administration Center between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. during each of the five (5) days prior to the day set for the election, except Sundays, and on the Saturday prior to the election by appointment only.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots may be applied for at the Office of the District Clerk.
An application for an absentee or early mail ballot must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the date of the election. An application for an absentee or early mail ballot must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely application for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address designated on the application by no later than six (6) days before the election. No absentee and early mail voter ballot shall be canvassed unless it shall have been received at the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on the date of the election. A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots have been issued will be available in the Office of the District Clerk on each of the five days prior to the election except Sunday.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school 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 application
forms must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. Military ballot applications must be received in the Office of the District Clerk by mail or in person by also no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is returned by mail or in person and (1) received in the Office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated be not later than the day before the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that at the election of the Merrick Union Free School District, qualified voters of the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District shall vote for the following purposes:
a)To vote upon the annual school budget for the 2025-2026 school year, and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the district for the foregoing purposes.
b)To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the meeting.
DATED:April 2025 Merrick, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
PAMELA AMON, DISTRICT CLERK 152673
Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA SOBRE EL PRESUPUESTO, REUNIÓN ANUAL, ELECCIÓN Y REGISTRO DE VOTANTES, DISTRITO ESCOLAR MERRICK UNION FREE Y BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE MERRICK
PUEBLO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
POR EL PRESENTE, SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar Merrick Union Free, pueblo de
Hempstead, condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en Lakeside Elementary School, Merrick, Nueva York el 6 de mayo de 2025 a las 7:15 p. m. para analizar el gasto de los fondos para el año escolar 2025-2026, su correspondiente presupuesto y otros asuntos según la autorización de la Ley de Educación del estado de Nueva York.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto de la biblioteca de Merrick en la biblioteca de Merrick, Merrick, Nueva York el 29 de abril de 2025 a las 7:00 p. m. para analizar el gasto de los fondos para el año fiscal 2025-2026, su correspondiente presupuesto y otros asuntos según la autorización de la Ley de Educación del estado de Nueva York.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, durante la reunión anual de dicho distrito escolar, que se celebrará el martes 20 de mayo de 2025 en Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, Nueva York, también se votará la asignación de los fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos estimados del distrito escolar y la biblioteca (el presupuesto escolar y para la biblioteca) para el año escolar 2025-2026. La votación se realizará entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m. Se usarán máquinas de votación en dicha elección anual.
TAMBIÉN
SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una elección para cubrir dos (2) vacantes con un mandato de tres (3) años para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación y una (1) vacante con un mandato de cinco (5) años para la oficina del fideicomisario de la Junta de la Biblioteca en Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, Nueva York el martes 20 de mayo de 2025. Las urnas para dicha elección estarán abiertas desde las 7:00 a. m. hasta las 9:00 p. m.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, en la boleta electoral, aparecerá una propuesta que indicará esencialmente lo siguiente: se autorizará a la Junta a gastar $4,800,000 del fondo de reserva de capitales establecido el 21 de mayo de 2019 con el propósito de realizar los siguientes proyectos: reemplazos de techos en
las escuelas primarias de Birch y Lakeside, lo que incluye toda la mano de obra, los materiales, el equipo, los aparatos y los costos incidentales relacionados.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que cualquier residente del distrito podrá obtener una copia de la declaración del monto de dinero que será requerido para el año escolar 2025-2026, a los fines de invertirlos en la escuela y la biblioteca, durante los catorce (14) días previos a la votación, excepto los sábados, domingos o feriados, en las escuelas del distrito, entre las 9:30 a. m. y las 3:30 p. m.
TAMBIÉN
SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con el Capítulo 258 de las Leyes de 2008, se agregó la Sección 495 a la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles y requiere que el distrito escolar adjunte a su presupuesto sugerido un informe de exenciones. Este informe de exenciones mostrará qué parte del valor total estimado de la lista de tasación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario queda libre de impuestos. En el informe se mencionará cada tipo de exención, otorgadas por la autoridad legal, y se mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, expresado en un monto en dólares del valor estimado o como porcentaje del total del valor estimado en la lista, el valor acumulativo que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) u otros pagos para servicios municipales, y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. Este informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablero de anuncios que el distrito designe para avisos públicos y en el sitio web del distrito. TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones para nominar a candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberán presentarse ante la secretaria del distrito entre las 9:30 a. m. y las 3:30 p. m. y antes de las 5:00 p. m. del lunes 21 de abril de 2025. Dicha petición debe estar firmada por al menos cuarenta y seis (42) votantes del distrito calificados para elección para la Junta de Educación. Los
candidatos que reciban la mayor cantidad de votos serán electos para el cargo. El registro personal es un requisito previo para votar en todas las elecciones de este distrito escolar y nadie podrá votar en esta elección si su nombre no aparece en el registro preparado para dicha elección; a excepción de cualquier persona residente del distrito que esté registrada de manera permanente en la Junta de Elecciones del condado de Nassau para votar en otras elecciones que no sean del distrito escolar y cuyo registro esté vigente, quien también podrá votar en esta elección sin registro adicional. TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la secretaria del distrito estará en la oficina del distrito el martes 6 de mayo de 2025, entre las 12:00 p. m. y las 4:00 p. m., con el propósito de preparar un registro de este distrito escolar para dicha elección, momento y lugar en los que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en el registro, siempre y cuando se sepa o se demuestre, para satisfacción de la Junta de Registros, que dicha persona tiene derecho a votar en la reunión o en la elección para la cual se prepara dicho registro. Las personas calificadas también podrán registrarse los días en que la escuela esté en sesión entre las 9:30 a. m. y las 3:30 p. m. en las escuelas del distrito, pero no se harán registros con menos de cinco (5) días de anticipación a la elección; este año el límite es el 15 de mayo de 2025. TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de Registros se reunirá el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m. en Norman J. Levy-Lakeside School, Merrick, Nueva York, para preparar el registro del distrito escolar que se usará en las reuniones o elecciones subsecuentes a la votación del presupuesto y elección anual del distrito escolar, en cuyo horario cualquier persona tendrá derecho a inscribirse en el registro, siempre que en tal reunión de la Junta de Registros se sepa o se demuestre, a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registros, que esa persona tiene derecho, entonces o en lo sucesivo, a votar en la reunión o en la elección
escolar para la cual se prepara el registro.
ASIMISMO SE NOTIFICA que el registro preparado se presentará en la oficina del superintendente de escuelas y estará disponible para que cualquier votante calificado del distrito pueda inspeccionarlo en la oficina del superintendente de escuelas y de la secretaria del distrito en Katherine E. Reif
Administration Center cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos al día establecido para la elección, de 9:30 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., excepto los domingos, y el sábado anterior a las elecciones únicamente con cita previa.
TAMBIÉN
SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes de boletas electorales por ausencia y boletas electorales anticipadas por correo pueden realizarse en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito. La secretaria del distrito deberá recibir las solicitudes de voto por ausencia y anticipado por correo no antes de los treinta (30) días previos a la fecha de la elección. La secretaria del distrito debe recibir las solicitudes de voto por ausencia y anticipado por correo por lo menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta electoral debe enviarse al votante por correo, o hasta el día antes de la elección si la boleta electoral debe entregarse al votante o a la persona designada por este en persona. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna para enviar por correo una boleta electoral por ausencia y anticipada por correo, la secretaria del distrito enviará por correo dicha boleta electoral a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la elección. Las boletas electorales por ausencia y anticipadas por correo no se escrutarán, a menos que se hayan recibido en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito antes de las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección. Habrá una lista de todas las personas para las que se emitieron boletas electorales por ausencia y anticipadas por correo disponible en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito durante los cinco días previos al día de la elección, excepto los domingos. TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden
solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar podrán enviar una solicitud de boleta electoral militar. Estos votantes pueden indicar su preferencia de recibir una inscripción de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta electoral militar o una boleta electoral militar por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de inscripción, solicitud de boleta electoral o boleta electoral. Los formularios de solicitud de registro para votantes militares se deben recibir en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito antes de las 5:00 p. m. del 24 de abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de boleta electoral militar deben recibirse en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito por correo o en persona también a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 24 de abril de 2025. Las boletas electorales militares no se escrutarán, a menos que se envíen por correo o se presenten en persona y (1) la oficina de la secretaria del distrito las reciba antes del cierre de las urnas el día de la elección y tengan una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o un endoso fechado de recepción por parte de otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos, o bien (2) la oficina de la secretaria del distrito las reciba antes de las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección, y estén firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo de ello, con una fecha asociada que no sea posterior al día previo a la elección. TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, durante la elección del Distrito Escolar Merrick Union Free, los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Central de Escuelas Secundarias BellmoreMerrick votarán con los siguientes fines:
a)Votar sobre el presupuesto escolar anual para el año escolar 2025-2026 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a tributación del distrito para los propósitos anteriores.
b)Votar sobre cualquier otra propuesta que se pueda presentar oportunamente en la reunión.
A jolly good Easter egg hunt at Stew Leonard’s
It was another year of an “egg-stra” special event at the East Meadow Stew Leonard’s on April 15. The store hosted its annual Easter Egg Hunt EggStravaganza, geared towards families with children ages 8 or younger.
Easter eggs filled with candy and other prizes could be found all throughout the store. There were are several beloved characters, such as the Easter Bunny, that helped make the egg hunt just a tad more magical.
Five lucky children walked away with an egg that had a special ticket inside, redeemable with customer service for a grand prize: “a WOW Easter
Basket,” bursting with extra treats.
The Easter Egg-Stravaganza was completely free to the community, and got children and families out and having fun — and putting their egg hunting skills to the test — a few days before the actual holiday.
For more on upcoming holiday events, which take place all year long at Stew Leonard’s, visit StewLeonards. com/Stew-Leonard-Events/. The East Meadow store is at 1897 Front Street, East Meadow.
— Jordan Vallone
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Children flocked to Stew Leonard’s in East Meadow on April 15 for an ‘egg-stra’ special Easter celebration ahead of the holiday. Madison Chin with Birdie Soleil Boroso, 4, and Adrianna Highsmith, 4.
Presley Hind, 4, met the Easter Bunny.
Lisa White with Aurora White, 2, with Jayda Woods from Stew Leonard’s during the egg hunt.
Isabella Cross, 7, had a blast looking for eggs around the store
Andrea Wang, 8, and Anson Wang, 5, with Sevi Ozgur. Easter eggs were hidden around the store filled with candy and other prizes.
info@bellautoschool.com
CNA: MALE & FEMALE CAREGIVERS Experienced with a wide range of Medical Care including Dementia, Alzheimer's & Parkinson Patients. Caring & Dependable. Driver. References Available. Derrick@917-363-8924
Business/Opportunities
ROCKAWAY REAL ESTATE WITH BUSINESS FOR SALE 10-11 Nameoke Street Commercial Condo, 900 Sq.Ft. All Modern With Parking Included In This Sale Is A Postal Pak'NShip Business And All To Run The Business
Rare Triplex – Endless Possibilities
LRedoing a basement before the tariffs kick in
Q. We bought our home three years ago, and are finally ready to finish our basement to make a family room, guest bedroom and a bathroom while enclosing our laundry. Right now it’s just a big open space with a lot of columns. The ceiling is low, and we’ve had estimates to cut down the basement floor. It seems like a lot of money to do all these things at once, but we understand that we need to do it before the prices for materials, as we’ve been warned, go a lot higher. We want to know what needs to be done if we want to lower the floor, take out two columns so our recreation room is bigger, and put in a bathroom. Is there any way to save money?
A. I doubt that you’ll save money, since you are correct that prices are creeping up, but only because of the uncertainty of markets. It seems that the Canada lumber tariffs may not take affect so rapidly, because Congress — including those from both sides of the aisle — is reportedly working on bills to stop the economic strife with our neighbor to the north. But it’s anybody’s guess, right now, day to day.
WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670
LINDENHURST: BRIGHT, Clean, Private 1 King BR, EIK, Fbth, LR, Second Floor. Background/ Credit Check. $1800 Plus Electric. 631-902-9791 Offices For Rent
FREEPORT: 23 S. Main Street, 3 Office Suite, Furnished, Immaculate, Elevator, Computer Room, Secretarial Area, Close To LIRR, Open Parking. Reasonable Rate. Call Stephen 516-678-9797 Cemetery Plots
CEMETERY PLOT FOR TWO For Sale: Pinelawn Cemetery. Garden Of Normandy North. Price Negotiable. 516-375-1905
Basements have always seemed so minor when compared with additions and other renovations, but there are many safety codes you should become familiar with. First, many jurisdictions disallow any sleeping room in basements. Bathrooms are allowed in most jurisdictions, but verify whether a bathing fixture, shower or tub, is allowed. Some will only allow a toilet and sink.
You also need a second means of escape from the main room, not just the staircase you already have from the first floor. You’ll need an escape window or stairwell to the outside. If you choose a window, the sill can’t be more than 44 inches above the floor, and the window must have at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, swinging outward into a 9-squarefoot (3 feet by 3 feet minimum) area of escape well with a ladder to get out to the ground level. I’ve watched these escape wells go from $3,500 to $12,000 over the past decade.
You will also be required to insulate the basement walls, and insulation must meet the State Energy Code, because when the basement is done legally, with a permit, it must pass the energy code analysis submission to the state’s website portal.
Many people, hearing all these requirements, elect to skirt the rules by hiring someone who does what they think will pass. When you are required to legalize the work, as the responsible party (the homeowner) in the process, sometimes work has to be redone because someone missed something. There’s a reason that professionals have to be involved, and it’s best not to try to save money by avoiding the inevitable, because experience teaches that the rules don’t get simpler over time. More next week.
HOUSEHOLD HEAVY DUTY RUG SHAMPOO Machine with all Attachments, and Cleaning Supplies. $85 516-486-7941 QUARTERS: ALL FIFTY STATES: Uncirculated, in presentation folders. $50. 516-486-7941
SERVICES
Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry
***MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION*** EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS! GIUSEPPE MUCCIACCIARO We Do Pavers, Cultured Stone, Concrete, Bluestone, Blacktop, Fireplace, Patio, Waterproofing, Walkways, Pool Work. Lic#H2204320000 Family Operation Over 40Years. 516-238-6287
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
Electricians
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
Floors
AVISTA FLOORING
Professional Floors * Great Prices! Installations * Refinishing Repairs * Dustless FAMILY OWNED FREE ESTIMATES!
Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day! 917-822-0225 Ricky Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing. Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Services
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397
HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060
Legal Services
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest
Hands off our health care, Governor Hochul
Gov. Kathy Hochul has finally confirmed what many of us have long suspected: The deliberate and calculated withholding of hundreds of millions of dollars from Nassau University Medical Center was never just an unfortunate budgeting decision — it was a setup. A setup designed to justify a hostile state takeover of our county hospital, which Hochul has now tried to sneak into this year’s budget without transparency, without accountability, and without consent from the very people who rely on this facility every day. Let me be absolutely clear: Hands off our health care, Governor.
NUMC isn’t just any hospital. It is Nassau County’s only safety-net hospital, providing care to over 1.4 million residents, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. It serves workingclass families, first responders, veterans, seniors and some of our most vulnerable neighbors. It is a cornerstone of Long Island’s health care network, and the only option for urgent and lifesaving care for many. NUMC doesn’t belong to
Albany. It doesn’t belong to Hochul. It belongs to the people of Nassau County. Are there challenges at the hospital? Of course. No one denies that it has faced significant operational and financial headwinds — some self-inflicted — but its challenges have built up over time, not overnight. The solution is not to suffocate it by withholding desperately needed funding, only to later claim that the hospital is too weak to survive on its own and must be taken over by the state. That isn’t governance — that is sabotage.
The role of the state is to support struggling hospitals, not seize them.
The governor’s actions are not only deeply irresponsible; they are also dangerous. At a time when New York’s health care system is already under enormous strain, her plan to consolidate control over NUMC threatens to destabilize it. If she succeeds, the consequences will be real and immediate for over 200,000 patients the hospital treats every year, and for other health care systems that will be forced to deal with the overflow. Over 80 percent of NUMC’s patients are either Medicare/Medicaid recipients or have no insurance at all. Are other hospitals ready to absorb them? This isn’t just a power grab — it’s a health care crisis in the making.
What makes this even more egregious is that NUMC, under its current
leadership team, has taken meaningful, successful steps toward reform. We’ve seen critical changes: expansion of services, renewed commitment to patient care, improved staff morale, a Gold Seal of Approval from a nationwide hospital-accrediting organization, an upgrade to an A patient safety rating and the early stages of financial recovery, cutting operating expenses while increasing revenues and preserving its workforce. These improvements didn’t come easy. They came from hard work, local commitment, and a shared belief that NUMC can succeed as a community-led institution.
Rather than support these efforts, Hochul’s approach has been to actively undermine them. By way of comparison, SUNY Downstate, another safetynet hospital in Brooklyn, has received over $1.1 billion in state aid over the past two years. NUMC has received nothing. It has also been shut out of funding from the state’s Distressed Hospital Fund, which helps sustain safetynet hospitals in financial difficulty. The governor is creating winners and losers and, as usual under her leadership, Long Island loses. By refusing to release the funding that NUMC has earned and deserves, the state is jeopardizing the
progress already made. The message from Albany is clear: Success under local leadership will not be tolerated if it doesn’t serve her political interests. Let me remind Hochul: the role of the state is to support struggling hospitals, not seize them. If she truly cared about NUMC’s patients, health care workers and our county’s future, she would be working with us, not against us. She would release the funds that were promised. She would be investing in infrastructure, staff retention and improved care — not plotting a takeover behind closed doors.
I’m proud to stand with my Republican colleagues from Long Island in the Senate and Assembly, who have fought tooth and nail to stop this dangerous plan. I’m also encouraged to see some Democrats join us. This isn’t a partisan issue — it’s a community issue. It’s a moral issue. And it’s one that demands courage from every elected official who claims to represent the people of Nassau County.
We must not allow Albany to dictate the future of our hospital. We must not allow political maneuvering to override patients’ needs. And we absolutely must not let our only safety-net hospital be used as a bargaining chip in budget negotiations. NUMC belongs in Nassau hands — and that’s where it should stay.
Steve Rhoads represents the 5th State Senate District.
Liberty Water customers, we need your help
Picking up right where we left off last legislative session, the Liberty Water team has been hard at work, talking with New York’s elected officials about providing meaningful rate relief to customers. Currently, roughly 30 percent of a Liberty customer’s bill is made up of taxes that provide no benefit to the water system itself. The disproportionate level of taxes paid by our customers unnecessarily drives up the cost of water. That is unjust, but thankfully, we are keeping up the momentum from last year’s efforts to eliminate the special franchise tax — which makes up a significant portion of the overall taxes paid by Liberty customers — and to provide access to the state’s drinking water infrastructure grant programs. Once again, we are
asking our customers to join us in this fight in Albany, and use the tools we have created to make their voices heard.
JStopthehiddentax.org is our advocacy website, and we encourage every Liberty New York Water customer to visit and use it to take action. Showing your support for these legislative changes is very simple. Visit the website, click on the “Take Action” tab and fill out some basic information. Once it is submitted, a letter will automatically be sent on your behalf to key decision-makers who can move this legislation forward.
extremely impactful, and will build on the nearly 60,000 letters that have been sent to elected officials in the past year.
oin us in the fight in Albany to stop the hidden taxes and lower your water bills.
Showing overwhelming support from our customers for this legislative change will move the needle. If you are one of the more than 3,600 Liberty customers who have already taken action through the site, take action again. The continuous reinforcement to our elected officials that you want to see these cost-saving efforts become a reality is
As a company, we continue to make a strong case to the prominent policymakers on behalf of our customers, and the message is resonating. Legislation to eliminate the special franchise tax as well as to provide access to public grant funding has been introduced again this year. Right now it is vital that the elected officials responsible for moving the bill through the legislative process hear from our customers. For those who want to see lower water bills, going to Stopthehiddentax. org and sending a letter to state leaders takes less than five minutes, and policymakers won’t be able to ignore the voices of our 125,000 customers.
While the taxes collected do help fund local taxing jurisdictions, it is our firm belief that these taxes should not be collected through customer water bills. Making matters worse, our cus-
tomers are the only ones in Nassau County who have to pay this excessive tax. Moreover, your tax dollars are being used to fund water infrastructure projects throughout the state that Liberty is currently ineligible to access. Once again, those dollars are being collected without any benefit returning to the water system in your community. I want to be perfectly clear on one final point: The only advantage Liberty stands to gain in pursuing this legislative change is water rates that more accurately reflect the true cost of providing high-quality water service. That’s it. It is written into the proposed legislation that Liberty cannot realize any financial benefit from either bill. So what can our customers do? Visit stopthehiddentax.org, click on the “Take Action” section, and fill in your information to have a letter sent on your behalf directly to key decisionmakers. There is power in numbers, and we are hoping every one of our customers will join the fight for lower bills. Let your voice be heard!
Deborah Franco is president of Liberty Water New York.
DEBORAH FRANCO
sTEVE RHOADs
Small Business Week celebrates entrepreneurs
every May for more than 60 years, the United States has taken the time to celebrate a crucial force in its economy: the small-business owner. This year during National Small Business Week, May 4 to 10, we will honor the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation, drives local economies, and creates opportunity in communities across the country.
It’s important to recognize that this is more than just a ceremonial observance. Small Business Week is a chance to spotlight the backbone of America’s economic engine and the importance of supporting the 33 million small businesses nationwide.
Two of their biggest backers are the federal Small Business Administration and SCORE, a nonprofit organization that has mentored more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. The SBA is a government agency that promotes and safeguards the interests of small businesses. Its mission is to support them and help them thrive, because they are such a vital component of the nation’s economy. The SBA provides access to federal contracts, counseling and financing, among other resources, to help these business grow.
Together, the SBA and SCORE will offer invaluable resources to both aspiring and established business owners at the annual National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event May 6 and 7. It will offer more than educational workshops; it will be a showcase of what’s possible when the public and private sectors collaborate.
That effort will include mentorships,
letters
Remembering ‘Steady Eddie’
To the Editor:
practical advice and access to federal programs and tools that can help smallbusiness owners navigate the myriad challenges they face, from financing to digital marketing.
The Summit won’t just be about learning — it will also be about community. Consider the sheer number of small businesses that dot the landscape of the cities, towns and villages that Herald newspapers cover. How many do you patronize on a regular basis, from your favorite pizza place to your favorite stationery store or barbershop? Many are anchors of their neighborhoods or downtown commercial areas, making towns into home towns.
Beyond the summit, the SBA is organizing in-person events across the country, including a national awards celebration in Washington, D.C., on May 5. There will be local events as well, giving municipalities the chance to recognize their own standout entrepreneurs.
But why should National Small Business Week matter to everyone — not just business owners? Because small businesses do more than sell products and services. They create jobs. Half of all U.S. workers are employed by small and medium-sized businesses, which contribute 43 percent of the country’s GDP. Small businesses mentor future leaders. They drive innovation. They support schools, sponsor local Little League teams, and strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Almost every dollar spent at a small business goes back into the local economy. And during challenging times, as we saw during the coronavirus pandemic,
Re Peter King’s column, “Ed Kranepool was the real Mr. Met,” last week: As a graduate of James Monroe High School in the Bronx (I entered as Kranepool left), I was following even his high school career, because my dad umpired high school games as Ed chased Hank Greenberg’s (no relation) career high school home run record.
As an aside, the title of Jimmy Breslin’s book, “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?” was a quote by Casey Stengel as he appraised his new team.
JOEL GREENBERG Merrick
Time for a bigger, better bottle bill
To the Editor:
Over
tthese businesses often demonstrate resilience and creativity that not only help their communities endure those times, but inspire new ways to overcome them, bringing residents closer together in the process.
Smart legislation is critical, too. State Sen. Monica Martinez, whose district covers parts of Long Island, recently introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act. This bill would provide truly small businesses — 10 employees or fewer — as well as minority-, female- or veteran-owned businesses of any size with a tax credit of up to $4,000 so they can advertise their products and services.
Supporting small businesses is a yearround responsibility, but next month’s special week will give us a chance to recommit to their success. Whether you attend the virtual summit, shop locally, or simply share the story of a small business that inspired you, there are countless ways to show support.
To learn more about this year’s events, to register for the summit, or to find a celebration near you, visit SBA. gov/NSBW. And be sure to follow along, and join the national conversation, at #SmallBusinessWeek. Throughout the year, the Herald offers small businesses webinars and training, too, and we encourage businesses to sign up for these valuable sessions.
In celebrating this special week, we celebrate the grit, vision and drive that continue to shape our nation by shaping its economy — one idea, one storefront and one hardworking entrepreneur at a time.
bride and ing disturbed moment. What much and the versity I thought than mine. the cheapest But separate
opinions Reconnecting with old friends
the other week I had the pleasure of flying to Atlanta to celebrate the wedding of two good friends. The ceremony was beautiful, the bride and groom were happy, and nothing disturbed the sanctity of the moment.
What really struck me was how much fun I had seeing a bunch of old friends from college and high school, and how much I’d missed spending time with them.
The groom and I had gone to neighboring colleges, although we’d known each other for years through mutual friends. I spent so much time over my four years with him and the other kids at St. Andrews university that there were some days when I thought I knew their campus better than mine. Certainly I knew where all the cheapest bars in their town were. But after graduation, we all went our separate ways, as happens. While we
kept in touch sporadically, the demands of life and work — not to mention the pandemic and general global craziness — meant that I rarely, if ever, saw or talked to many people who only a few years before I’d hung out with every day. until this recent weekend, when we spent practically every waking moment getting up to our old shenanigans again. It sounds cliché to say, but it truly felt like no time had passed.
a
every weekend. And for many young people, this connection is something that we’re all deeply missing.
Most people are aware that there is a loneliness epidemic in America.
fter college, we went our separate ways, but it was silly of me not to reach out before.
The most astonishing part was finding out how many of these friends now lived so close to me, with the majority of them having moved to New York City in the past few years. The last I’d heard from them, they were scattered as far apart as Los Angeles and London; little did I know that most of them now lived less than an hour away on the LIRR. I’ve already made plans to see some of them again soon.
That got me thinking about how silly it was of me not to reach out before. A simple text, “Hey, how’s it going, dude?” and I could have been seeing them
Letters
Cola plant in Tarrytown to call attention to the fact that New York state needed a bottle deposit bill. I was sore for three weeks! We achieved victory, and New York passed the Returnable Container Act, commonly known as the Bottle Bill. This landmark law has proven to be a highly effective program, reducing litter and increasing recycling rates in our state.
Albany now needs to support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill (S5684, A6543). This legislation would raise bottle and can deposits from 5 to 10 cents, which would increase redemption rates, support some of our state’s most marginalized workers and further reduce litter. The nickel deposit was enacted into law in 1983. If it were adjusted for inflation, it would be 15 cents today.
This bill could generate as much as $100 million for the state, and those funds could be used to address limits on redemption options in low-income communities and other litter and solid waste problems. It would also create more consistency by including sports drinks, iced tea, wine and spirits and more. With more beverage types included, there would be more recycling, less confusion and less pollution.
We must stop littering our Earth with one-time-use disposable bottles. This 42-yearold law needs to be updated. Here’s hoping our Legislature and governor will carry this bill through to fruition.
JoSEpH M. VARoN West Hempstead
Food
According to a study released in 2024 by the American psychiatric Association, 30 percent of adults experience feelings of loneliness at least once a week, with 10 percent admitting that they feel lonely every day.
This is even more pronounced in young people, with 30 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 saying they are lonely every day or several times a week.
This crisis, while not as immediately obvious as a drug or disease epidemic, is just as insidious in its negative impact on the health of our country and our communities. A variety of factors are believed to contribute to this problem, from technology to being overworked to our hyper-focused sense of individualism.
While experts argue about the cause, the negative results speak for themselves. Humans are naturally social
& Water Watch, and Beyond Plastics.
Surely we can shelter the homeless and their pets
To the Editor:
There is a desperate need for Nassau County politicians to establish a homeless shelter for people with pets.
There is nothing more emotionally jarring than looking into the eyes of a person who has lost everything and, in order to be admitted to a shelter, must surrender a beloved lifelong companion to an animal rescue — or continue to live on the streets — because Nassau County has no place for the two of them to go.
And it’s equally soul-wrenching to sit with a newly surrendered homeless animal, confused and scared, and console them as they get one last glimpse of the best friend they adored unconditionally.
Last month, the Safe Center of Long Island, in Bethpage, closed. Isn’t there a space like this that can be used as shelter for both the homeless and their pets?
politicians, for decades you have been telling homeless people what they need, instead of asking them. They have told me through their tears, and their animal friends by their despair. Will you act, or continue to look away from the truly voiceless, who in your campaign speeches you profess you will be a champion for.
DANA
FuCHS Long Beach
Dana Fuchs works at an animal rescue facility.
animals, and when we are unable to socialize, for whatever reason — from prisoners in solitary confinement to teenage shut-ins who spend all of their time online — the effects of being separated from others take a serious mental and physical toll on our health.
Studies have compared the impact of loneliness on our bodies to the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes, and concluded that it leads to higher rates of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Loneliness literally kills us.
on the flip side, the desire for companionship can also lead people to seek connection and validation from unhealthy sources, such as political extremist groups, criminal organizations, and even drugs.
That’s why, now more than ever, it’s important to reach out. Shoot a text to your buddy from high school or call your friend from your sports team in college. Sometimes even a short conversation catching up is all you need to remind yourself how many friends you have, and how much they mean to you.
Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? wsheeline@liherald.com.
Framework by Tim Baker
Hanging out on the Nautical Mile — Freeport
Joseph Varon is a past president of the New York State Marine Education Association, and a member of the Long Island chapter of
