Melissa Berman/Herald
Eighth-graders at Brandeis Hebrew Academy in Lawrence held a Yom HaShoah program on April 13, paying tribute to the 6 million Jewish lives lost in the Holocaust. The students sang songs in Hebrew, talked about what the holiday means and explained the need to remember what happened.
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
Eighth-graders at Brandeis Hebrew Academy in Lawrence brought history to life with haunting clarity last week, transforming their annual Yom HaShoah program into a powerful tribute to the lives lost and the responsibility of the next generation to remember.
Observed each year as Israel’s day of Holocaust remembrance, Yom HaShoah commemorates the 6 million Jews systematically murdered by the Nazis during World War II, while also honoring the surConTinuEd on pAgE 9
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com
Hewlett-Woodmere School District Board of Education trustees voted unanimously to adopt a proposed budget of just over $149.95 million for the 2026-27 school year, a 4.8 percent increase over the current spending plan.
The public vote on the proposed school district and Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library budgets, as well as the election of two Board of Education trustees, is scheduled for May 19, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., at the Woodmere Education Center.
The budget — Proposition 1 on the ballot — includes $4.2 million in capital reinvestments for building and facility improvements across the district. This encompasses HVAC system upgrades, athletic field renovations, the replacement of Hewlett Elementary School’s exterior doors, floor repairs at Franklin Early Childhood Center and Hewlett High School, and repaving and maintenance of the Hewlett High parking lot on East Rockaway Road. Mandated contractual costs for the district, such as special education; employee benefits; transportation; Board of Cooperative Educational Services, or
BOCES; and insurance also factor into the spending increase.
The budget also includes a 2.61 percent increase in the tax levy, the total amount the district needs to collect in taxes to fund its planned spending. The hike is below the state tax cap, but up from this year’s 1.75 percent increase.
At a March 1 budget draft meeting, the district initially projected next year’s tax levy increase at 3.04 percent, with nearly $2.84 million dedicated to district improvements. Through extensive work spearheaded by Superintendent Dina Anzalone and Richard Snyder, assistant superintendent of
business operations, the district increased funding for improvements while reducing the tax levy.
“We were able to identify $1.8 million that had previously been voter-approved and reauthorize it,” Anzalone said. “This is at no additional cost to the taxpayer.”
Asked why the money had
not been used sooner, Snyder, who joined the district in March, and has two decades of experience working with school finances, said, “It’s going to sound self-serving, but you have to hire experienced administrators that know where to look. If you end the year with a surplus, you never
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
The Franklin Early Childhood Center transformed its hallways into a global showcase at its 14th annual “One World Cultural Celebration,” a lively event that brings together students, families and staff to honor the many cultures that make up the school community.
The event featured food, music and interactive displays from 21 countries and the celebration invited families to share their heritage through traditional dishes, posters and cultural artifacts, turning the school into a vibrant, hands-on journey around the world, on April 16.
From tables filled with homemade specialties to colorful presentations highlighting customs and traditions, the event offers young students a meaningful introduction to cultures beyond their own.
“I think the collaboration among everyone is incredible,” said FECC Principal Nicole Montellese. “The families come together because every family who’s running a country might not have known each other before this. We get them together and it’s a great thing for other families to meet each other.”
The annual program has become a cornerstone of the school’s mission to foster inclusion and understanding at an early age, particularly in the diverse HewlettWoodmere community.
“Being in the room seeing it all live and knowing this is what our community is
Melissa Berman/Herald photos Yasmeen Ali, left, represented her country, Pakistan, at the 14th annual Franklin Early Childhood Center “One World Cultural Celebration,” by doing henna on Sophia Liz, a seventh grader at Woodmere Middle School.
made out of is the best part,” Montellese said.
She said preparations for the annual event officially start in January by meeting with the Parent Teacher Association, but it is talked about all-year long.
“We have so many incredible parent volunteers who help run this,” she said. “Along with some really involved staff members who help run this.”
Families and students play a central role in the event, working together to prepare displays that reflect their heritage. For many children, it is an opportunity to see their own culture represented and valued in a school setting, while also learning firsthand about the traditions of their class -
mates.
Afrina Lima, a Hewlett resident and aunt of a student, said she volunteered to introduce other people to her Bangladesh culture, where she’s from, the outfits and food.
“You learn new things through diversity,” she said. “It helps people understand about more colors of the world.”
She prepared for the event by deciding what to serve and took into consideration the different levels of spice in the food.
“My niece loves this type of stuff, and I just want to make her happy,” Lima added. “I just want to help other kids learn about the culture and know about it.”
Beyond the food and festivities, educa-
tors say the event carries an important message about global unity and acceptance.
“I honestly could cry thinking of all the different types of families we have here and the wide variety of cultures we have in Hewlett,” said Alex English, special education teacher at FECC.
By highlighting traditions from around the world, the One World Cultural Celebration encourages curiosity, respect and connection — values school leaders say are essential to building a strong and inclusive community.
“It just makes me very proud to be part of this school, this district, to serve in this district and to spend time with all the families and children,” she said.
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com
Hewlett native Riley Weiss has always believed in being the best female athlete she can be, both for herself, and young female athletes. Weiss’ drive is why she won the Dolph Schayes Outstanding Performance by a Jewish Athlete Award.
It’s given by the Jewish Sports Heritage Association, and honors Jewish athletes who show exceptional dedication and achievement in sports.
Weiss, a junior guard, built on her success from high school with a record-setting season She was named Ivy League Player of the Year, earning a spot on the league’s all-tournament team, and broke Columbia’s single-season scoring record. She averaged 17.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.1 steals over 31 games.
of how people work and how the brain works,” she said. “It has helped me read people and understand them better.”
At Hewlett High School, Weiss joined the varsity team as a seventh grader and became the program’s all-time leading scorer. She averaged 40.8 points per game as a sophomore and 39.9 as a junior. She was a four-year captain, a four-time allcounty selection, a twotime All-Long Island honoree, and a member of the 2021-22 New York All-State Team. That season, she was named both the conference and Nassau County Player of the Year.
W inning the Ivy League and getting an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament is the main goal.
“Part of the reason why I came to Columbia was to play tough teams,” Weiss said. “Playing in those games and being an impact player is an incredible feeling.”
RILEY WEISS
Weiss has also excelled academically. She has earned Dean’s List honors in all but two semesters while pursuing a degree in psychology. She said her interest in the subject began after taking an introductory class during her freshman year.
“I wanted to get a better understanding
For her senior year, Weiss transferred to North Broward Prep in South Florida. She broke seven school records, won a district championship and earned a gold medal at the 2022 Maccabiah Games with Team USA.
She finished her high school career with 2,906 points and received the Michael Freedman Outstanding Jewish High School Athlete of the Year — another association award.
“We knew back then that she was not only going to be an outstanding basketball player, but someone who was going to go places,” Alan Freedman, the association’s executive director said.
make
through the Ivy league as a member of the Columbia Lions.
Weiss has drawn inspiration from Golden State Warriors point guard, Stephen Curry and his development as a player. She also credits competing against her twin brother, Ryan Weiss — now a forward at Brandeis University — with helping shape her game.
“It was inspiring for me and pushed me
to be better,” Riley Weiss said. Entering her senior year, Weiss hopes to lead Columbia to an NCAA Tournament berth.
“Winning the Ivy League and getting an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament is the main goal.”
4 Butcher’s
1
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Courtesy HealthEpiscopal Services
Dr. Allen Cherson, medical director of Ambulatory Services
Episcopal Health Services has named Allen Cherson as medical director of ambulatory services.
In the role, Cherson will focus on improving efficiency, customer service and quality assurance across ambulatory operations, while expanding access to primary and specialty care, strengthening population health management, and enhancing the patient and family experience.
Each one of us experience countless injustices in the course of everyday living. Like other experiences, it is not the experience itself so much that counts, but how you process it. The Mayo Clinic addresses the health benefits of “forgiveness” which they define as “an intentional decision to let go of resentment and anger”. Letting go of grudges and bitterness can lead to:
Everett Worthington, Profession Emeritus of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, provides a free workbook at for whom forgiveness may be difficult (most of
Recall: Recall the hurt. Look at the incident in an objective way and don’t try to push aside your feelings.
Empathize: Empathize with the offender without excusing the action or invalidating your own feelings. Maybe the person was having a bad day or was raised in dire circumstances.
forgiveness. Think about a time when you were rude or harsh, and recognize that everyone has shortcomings.
Commit: Make a decision to forgive. You can write a letter that you don’t send to help yourself make the commitment.
Hold:
how you react to those feelings will.
“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned”
“Dr. Cherson’s appointment represents an important step forward in advancing our mission to provide excellent care for residents of the Rockaway Peninsula,” Donald Morrish, president and chief executive officer of EHS wrote in a news release. “His leadership, experience and commitment will play a critical role in expanding access, enhancing quality and ensuring a consistently high standard of care for every patient we serve.”
Cherson has 30 years of healthcare experience. Most recently, he served as medical director of urgent care and telemedicine at AdvantageCare Physicians. He also held roles at StatHealth and Urgent MD and was assistant director of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center.
Jameela Yusuff, senior vice president and chief medical officer, said Cherson “brings a strong track record in advancing clinical quality, care standardization and performance across ambulatory settings,” adding that his leadership will support efforts to expand services, strengthen care coordination and implement evidence-based practices. He earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed a residency in emergency medicine at St. Barnabas Hospital/ New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. He also completed an emergency medical services fellowship with the Fire Department of the City of New York. Cherson is a certified professional in healthcare quality, a fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners.
“I am honored to join Episcopal Health Services at a time of profound transformation in healthcare,” Cherson wrote in a news release. “I look forward to partnering with our teams to expand access, advance innovation and deliver a more connected, patient-centered experience.”
— Melissa Berman
Melissa Berman/Herald
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
A new chapter in a decades-long family legacy began on April 16 as Karako Suits celebrated the grand opening of its newest location on Rockaway Turnpike in Lawrence.
The store, located at 350 Rockaway Turnpike, marks the latest expansion for the menswear retailer, which has grown from a single storefront in Manhattan to a multi-location business across the tri-state area.
At the helm are cousins Moshe Karako and Michael Karako, third-generation owners continuing a business first started by their grandfather and fathers in 1982. The company began in Manhattan’s Garment District and has remained family-owned and operated for more than four decades.
What began as a small operation has evolved into a regional brand, but the Karako family says its core values have remained the same.
“We have 12 stores on the island now,” Michael said. “The Five Towns store just moved from a few buildings over and it was one of the first stores on the island. We’ve been on the island for 30 years.”
The store moved buildings for better visibility, parking and a bigger location.
“We have big shoes to fill, both of us,” Moshe said. “Our fathers worked very hard to build this business and we’re trying to push it forward.”
The new location reflects that continued growth while staying rooted in the community the family has long served. Known for offering a wide range of suits, from everyday wear to formal and custom designs, Karako Suits has built its reputation on accessibility and personalized service.
“It’s a family company at the end of the day,” Moshe said. “Our name goes in front of us and behind us and we want to make sure when people come to
our stores we continue and serve the best quality products that we can, the best pricing that is unmatched in our industry and the service.”
From working in the stores as teenagers to now leading expansion efforts, both cousins say they were raised in the industry and learned firsthand the importance of customer service, quality and adaptability.
“The service is why we’re still here today with everything going on with online sales,” Michael added. “We’re able to service our customers and we have tailors on site in every store.”
They stressed the importance of having a suit for every price point, boys, men and even women. Along with Lawrence being the only location to sell Borsalino hats for the Jewish community.
“My favorite part is continuing the legacy, continuing the stores and making sure it’s a household name people can rely on,” Michael said. “You’re getting the same service at all 12 stores, same pricing and good Karako family experience.”
The Karako family says the goal remains simple: to carry forward the legacy started by their grandfather and fathers and strengthened by the generations that followed.
Moshe said his favorite part is creating and designing new and exciting styles and designs.
“Building out beautiful stores with my cousin is my favorite part,” Moshe said. “We do everything together.”
Karako Suits are members of the Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association and graduates of the Hewlett-Woodmere school district.
“We welcome Karako Suits to their new store,” said David Friedman, HWBA president. “The store is beautifully laid out and impressive. It was so nice meeting the family in person and it’s so great to have a local business owned by our friends from Hewlett.”
ALREADY A TWO-TIME All-Conference selection, Webster appears well on her way to at least a third if not an All-County season. Heading into this week’s action, the Rocks’ fourth-year starting shortstop leads Nassau County in home runs with 6 and RBIs with 28 while batting .700 through nine games. Webster blasted a pair of homers against Baldwin on March 21 and repeated the accomplishment April 11 versus Freeport.
Thursday, April 23
Flag Football: Oceanside at East Rockaway 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Bell-Merrick at Massapequa 5:30 p.m.
Friday, April 24
Softball: Clarke at Farmingdale 5 p.m.
Softball: Malverne at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Softball: North Shore at South Side 5 p.m.
Baseball:Calhoun at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Baseball: Elmont at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Boys Tennis: South Side at Hewlett 5 p.m.
Flag Football: East Meadow at Freeport 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Clarke 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 25
Softball: Wantagh at Oceanside 10 a.m.
Softball: Hicksville at Long Beach 10 a.m.
Softball: West Hempstead at Lawrence 10 a.m.
Softball: Lynbrook at Freeport 10 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Herricks at Baldwin 11 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Roslyn at Long Beach 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: East Meadow at Oceanside 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Freeport at V.S. District 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Seaford 3 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Lynbrook vs Hewlett 6:30 p.m.
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.
By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com
Hard work in the offseason has paid off for Hewlett’s boys lacrosse team, which is tield for its best-ever start at 7-0.
Hewlett lost its four starting defensemen and star goalie Daniel Lankri to graduation but still is soaring.
A JV starter last season, sophomore goalie Ivan Reznikov is excelling with a 74.6 save percentage.
So how did this good fortune happen for Hewlett coach Dale Pescitelli?
“I sat down with the Parents Association,” Pescitelli said. “I help out in PAL and they pushed for a lot more offseason work. The players that weren’t playing winter and fall sports, they were able to come to as many intramural practices I would have and the weight room other days. We got bigger, stronger, faster.’’
Senior captain Stefano Borsellino was a given as a spark. But juniors Chase Rivas (9 goals, 21 assists), Myles King (21-13) and Jacob Zohar (17-10) have stepped up into major offensive threats. The junior trio has played together since first grade.
“All those sophomores that were on the team got a year older and year better,’’ Pescitelli said. “It wasn’t just older. They worked at it. and have a lot of chemistry together.’’
The most pleasant surprise has been sophomore attacker John Amitrano, who has 18 goals and 9 assists.
“He’s a natural lefty, tough as nails, loves the game,’’ Pescitelli said. “He’s 240
Erik Lee/Herald
Sophomore attack John Amitrano has 18 goals and 9 assists for the Bulldogs, helping them to a 7-0 start.
pounds and looks like you can cover him, but he runs through everybody. He can shoot the ball low, high.’’
In a 15-3 win at Baldwin on April 16, Amitrano did a behind-the-back fake pass to shake his defender and went in alone on the goalie. “The defender ran the other way and he dunked it into the goal,’’ Pescitelli said.
Zohar, meanwhile has
emerged on every opponent’s scouting report. The junior scored 4 goals with 2 assists versus Baldwin.
“When Jacob would go on the field, the other team was like ‘the shooter is on the field, make sure you mark him up,’’’ Pescitelli said. “The other teams see it as well. That was the biggest surprise after working hard in the offseason, coming to
every intramural.’’
Hewlett’s season started on the right note with a 9-8 five-overtime win over Herricks. Borsellino scored the game-winner after 65:45 of lacrosse. “It was awesome and exciting,’’ Pescitelli said. It marked one of the longest games in Nassau County history. Reznikov withstood 66 minutes of action.
After scoring 4 goals, 2 assists with 8 groundballs in a 15-3 win over Kennedy last Saturday, Borsellino’s scoring line is 18 goals and 14 assists.
In the 7-0 start, Hewlett has allowed just 11 goals in the six non-overtime games.
“He’s been top notch,’’ Pescitelli said of Reznikov. “He could’ve come up as a freshman, but we had an AllCounty goalie. We wanted him to get more reps down there (in JV) instead of sitting on the bench with us.’’ One concern is in its important game versus Floral Park on April 28. The Bulldogs will be without Reznikov. A high-end student looking to attend MIT, he’ll be in Texas for the Robotics championship.
The Conference 2 title still is up for grabs despite Hewlett’s 4-0 conference start. “Our schedule is going to get harder so we have to get better and better,’’ Pescitelli said. Pescitelli joined Hewlett’s program in 2020 and hasn’t seen a long Class B playoff run.
“We haven’t made it past the first round since I’ve been head coach,’’ he said. “We made the playoffs but I think this is the year we get past the first round.’’
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
As part of a statewide effort to address declining volunteer firefighter enrollment, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York launched its 17th annual RecruitNY campaign with a news conference and a live firefighting demonstration at the Melville Fire Department April 15.
The initiative comes as the number of volunteer firefighters across the state has dropped by roughly 33 percent over the past two decades, from about 120,000 in the early 2000s to 80,000 today — even as emergency calls continue to rise. Recent data compiled by FASNY shows a 16 percent increase in house fires and a 37 percent jump in overall fire calls over that time, putting added strain on departments.
“It is very important for all of our communities to understand that fire and rescue service is staffed by volunteers who are will-
ing to go out 24/7 and respond to medical and fire emergencies as needed,” the association’s president, Gene Perry, said. “While some departments are doing very well, others face challenges and are trying to get more people and younger people involved.”
Nearly 90 percent of fire departments statewide — including about 70 in Nassau and 100 in Suffolk — rely on volunteers, making recruitment a growing public safety concern.
As part of RecruitNY, departments across Long Island opened their doors for demonstrations and outreach events aimed at attracting new members. Officials said the effort is critical to maintaining staffing levels and emergency response capabilities.
At the Long Island kickoff, FASNY representatives joined local officials and firefighters to highlight recruitment efforts and encourage residents to consider volunteering. They also conducted a demonstration on how firefighters extinguish
dangerous car fires.
In a survey conducted by the association two years ago, 49 percent of New York residents expressed an interest in becoming volunteer firefighters. As well, 66 percent of respondents said they would visit their local fire station to learn more, and 55 percent reported that they would begin with an online search for information.
“What we need are more incentives to encourage people to volunteer, like tax
Smaller classes. More academic options. More financial aid. Higher graduating salaries.
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breaks on homes and priority for affordable housing for volunteers,” Assemblyman Steve Stern said. “These are critically important, but we need to go much further, and I want you to know that we see it and we hear it, because not having enough volunteers is a direct hit on us all — our families and our communities — and it puts our safety at risk.”
For more information on volunteering, contact your local volunteer fire department or visit fasny.com.
Saturday, May 2 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Garden City Campus
Register today to reserve your spot! Visit adelphi.edu/ heraldoh26 or scan this code.
vivors who rebuilt their lives in the aftermath. At Brandeis, that dual message of mourning and continuity was woven throughout the April 13 program.
This year’s student-led event centered on a powerful question: What would you take if you had only minutes to leave your home forever?
Through emotional monologues, students imagined themselves as being forced to flee with only a single suitcase. One spoke of bringing a violin, another a red coat, while others clutched symbolic items: a pair of shoes, a ring, a teddy bear, and a book of poems, each representing identity, memory, love and hope in the face of unimaginable loss.
“These objects remind us of what was taken,” Brandeis student Olivia Golovanov said during the program. “Homes were taken, families were taken, and childhoods were taken. Entire communities were taken. But something more powerful remained, faith remained, hope remained, the strength of our people remained.”
Fellow student Sara Davis framed the evening with a call to collective responsibility.
“Today, we honor not only how they died, but how they lived,” she said. “The families they built, the traditions they cherished, and the futures that were stolen. This is our responsibility. This is our obligation.”
The ceremony also featured remarks from community leaders, including Village of Lawrence Mayor Samuel Nahmias and Michael Cohen from the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, in New York City, who underscored the importance of Holocaust education at a time of rising antisemitism.
“It’s good to be here to see and hear how serious Brandeis takes the mission of educating students about the Holocaust,” Cohen said. “They take the
opportunity to stress ‘never forget’ and instill it in our next generations.”
But for many in attendance, the most powerful moments came from 94-year-old Holocaust survivor Rachel Malmed Epstein, whose life story offered a living bridge between past and present and a deeper understanding of both loss and resilience.
Born in 1932 in Saint-Quentin, France, Epstein spent her early childhood in the historic French commune of Compiègne before her life was upended by the Holocaust. After her parents were deported and murdered in Auschwitz, she and her younger brother, Leon, were forced into hiding.
They were taken in by neighbors, Henri and Suzanne Ribouleau, who risked their lives to protect the children, an act that would later earn them recognition as Righteous Among the Nations.
Epstein reflected on the complexity of those years,
recalling that she and her brother lived outwardly normal lives while in hiding, even attending school, all while carrying the constant danger of discovery. At war’s end, they were the only surviving Jewish children from their city and faced yet another upheaval when relatives reclaimed them, leading to a difficult transition away from the only sense of stability they had known.
“We survived because someone chose courage over fear,” Epstein said. “That is what I want you to remember. That even in the darkest times, people can choose to do what is right.”
In 1950, at just 17 years old, Epstein immigrated to the United States aboard the Queen Mary, beginning a new chapter. She soon met her husband, Isidore, and the two built a life together spanning more than seven decades, raising daughters Anita and Helen and establishing a family rooted in perseverance, memory and Jewish identity.
“Every time I tell my story, I am trusting you to carry it forward,” Epstein said in addressing the Brandeis students. “Soon, there will be no one left who lived it. You will be the witnesses.”
She also emphasized a message that has guided her lifelong testimony: “Out of the terror of World War II came the goodness of righteous gentiles who saved thousands.”
The evening concluded with a message of hope that echoed across generations — that despite the devastation, the Jewish people endure.
“This is our responsibility,” Davis added. “This is our obligation. Tonight, we stand together in memory, in mourning, and in commitment. We remember.”
“We remember. We honor those who were lost. We carry their stories forward. And most importantly, we are still here.”
The Village of Atlantic Beach hosted its annual Earth Day beach cleanup on April 19, partnering with Temple Israel of Lawrence to bring together residents and volunteers for a morning of environmental stewardship.
Earth Day is observed each year on April 22 and serves as a global reminder of the importance of protecting the planet and preserving natural resources. First celebrated in 1970, it has grown into an international movement encouraging communities to take action through conservation and sustainability efforts.
The community-wide effort, held at Plaza Beach on Ocean Boulevard, encouraged participants to help preserve the local shoreline and protect marine ecosystems. Volunteers gathered at 10 a.m., with parking permits provided at the site.
Temple Israel leaders framed the cleanup as both a civic responsibility and a reflection of Jewish values, emphasizing the connection between people and the earth and the importance of caring for the environment.
Organizers said the annual event continues to grow as more community members join in to mark Earth Day through handson action, reinforcing a shared commitment to keeping Atlantic Beach clean and sustainable.
— Melissa Berman
Since returning from winter vacation, HAFTR High School has experienced a powerful blend of reflection, celebration, and community. Through meaningful awareness programs and the joyful spirit of Adar, students came together to learn, support one another, and celebrate what makes our school community so special.
February began with Health Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of physical and mental health. Students participated in various programs and activities to help them learn practical tools to live a balanced, healthy life. One of the highlights of Health Week is Pink Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and supporting those affected by the illness. Students proudly wore pink, showing solidarity and helping spark important conversations about health and support. Students learned about Sharsheret, an organization dedicated to helping people fighting this battle, and helped to fundraise for the organization through an incredible raffle. Another highlight of the day was hearing from guest speaker Mrs. Tamar Abikzer, who shared her deeply personal story with the students at HAFTR. Mrs. Abikzer spoke about what it was like growing up with a parent battling breast cancer, and later discovering she herself carried the BRCA gene. She courageously described the difficult decisions and experiences that came with undergoing preventative surgery, offering students a powerful perspective on resiliency and strength. Mrs. Abikzer also spoke about the incredible support she and her family received from Sharsheret. Her story left a lasting impression on students, reminding everyone of the power of community, support, and awareness.
spirits as they traveled from classroom to classroom, singing and spreading energy and excitement. Their enthusiasm set the tone for the festive weeks to come. Purim celebrations at HAFTR were filled with laughter and togetherness. Students gathered for a Megillah reading, coming together to hear the story of Purim and to celebrate the Jewish community’s victory over their oppressors. The festivities continued with a special appearance from a hypnotist, whose hilarious show had the entire student body laughing together. One of the most meaningful parts of Purim day was the tradition of visiting our teachers at their homes for special Purim parties. Students stopped by many teachers’ houses to spend quality time and share mishloach manot. Moments like these remind us that, while HAFTR is a school, it truly feels like a family, both in the classroom and beyond.
Soon after, the halls of HAFTR filled with the joyful spirit of the Hebrew month of Adar, the month that heralds the festive holiday of Purim. The senior girls kicked off the month with high
Another meaningful program was Purple Day, organized by the fellows of the Shalom Task Force, which raises awareness of domestic violence. Students gathered to hear important messages about recognizing unhealthy relationships and supporting those who might be struggling. Throughout the day, fellows sold goodies and acai bowls to raise charity for Shalom Task Force. The day helped foster thoughtful, important conversations, reinforcing the importance of standing up for others and building healthy, respectful relationships. Together, these events reflected the values that define HAFTR: compassion, joy, and a strong sense of community. From raising awareness of important causes to celebrating the happiness of Adar and Purim, students and faculty once again demonstrated that HAFTR is more than just a place of learning; it is a community that supports, celebrates, and uplifts each other.
Erin Nathan is the student columnist for the Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway High School.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Scott Jennings was appointed president and chief operating officer of PSEG Long Island in January, overseeing electric service for about 1.2 million customers. He joined PSEG in 1998 after starting at Deloitte, and held leadership roles in finance and energy investments. He helped develop PSEG’s Long Island agreement, leading to its 2014 launch, and most recently served as senior vice president of finance, planning and strategy. He earned a degree in business administration and an MBA in accounting from Pace University.
Q: From a business degree in accounting, how did you get into the power industry?
A: I started with Deloitte, and PSEG was one of my clients. The engagement showed me how critical the energy industry is to the overall economy and every family. At PSEG I’ve been able to see every part of the business as I moved into several different roles in finance supporting the overall company, and directly managed a number of our business areas.
Q: Having been involved in creating PSEG Long Island’s operating structure in 2014, how does that influence your current priorities?
A: Yes, it was a great experience to lead our pitch to LIPA to serve as the operator more than a decade ago, and I’m really happy to move out here and join and lead the PSEG Long Island team. I think this publicprivate partnership brings great value to the customers of Long Island. With the utility system owned by LIPA, they have access to FEMA funding to recover the costs of storms and support grants for investments, they don’t pay federal or state taxes, and they have access to low-cost debt financing. That’s real value. And then engaging a private company, like PSEG, brings the expertise to operate the utility efficiently and effectively. So my first priorities are aligned with that: leading the utility to bring value to our customers by providing strong reliability and customer service at an affordable price.
Q: Being responsible for PSEG-New Jersey’s high standard in the industry, how do you lift PSEG Long Island to that level?
A: Over our first 12 years on Long Island, we’ve made great strides — this is a very, very different electric system and process compared to the past. Reliability has greatly
improved — PSEG Long Island is now in the top 10 percent of the country for reliability, just behind our sister in New Jersey. We see this in fewer sustained outages, fewer momentary outages, and lesser impacts and quicker responses during recent storms.
Similar on the customer satisfaction front. When we took over in 2014, the Long Island utility had the lowest customer satisfaction in the industry. Since then, PSEG Long Island has been recognized as having the most improvement in the entire country, and was even ranked No. 1 in the 2025 J.D. Power Business Customer Satisfaction Study among large utilities in the East.
And finally I’d point to affordability. When we took over, Long Island electric rates were about the highest in the country. Since then, through good cost control, New York state actions on property taxes and LIPA refinancing its debt, our rates are now lower than our neighboring utilities in NYC and Connecticut.
So we’ve made great progress, and my focus will be to continue to improve our service while managing costs.
Q: From your 30 years of experience, what lessons are
most relevant as you take on this position?
A: It’s about putting the right people in the right positions and keeping focus on what is most important for customers: reliability, service and cost.
Q: Under your leadership, what does success look like, and how can PSEG Long Island help strengthen the L.I. region?
A: I look for success in two timeframes. First is the nearterm of maintaining continued strong reliability and customer service while managing costs effectively. The second is positioning the Long Island electric utility for long-term success. We’re making additional system reliability investments so the strong reliability performance we’ve recently delivered can be maintained. Similarly, we’ll be assessing our longterm energy needs and the generation supply needed to meet them reliably and affordably, while also balancing environmental considerations. These actions and more will position Long Island for reliable and affordable service for years to come, which will help support the region’s continued economic development and great communities for our families.
effectively needed the money. You don’t have to use the money, but it’s been sitting there dating back to the 2015-16 school year. It’s time to bring it back.”
Snyder said that the district would need to talk about tax levy management at a public meeting in the future, because construction work directly affects the tax levy. “The more work you do,” he said, “the more the levy can fluctuate, based on how the tax cap formula works.”
He noted that while this year’s spending plan looks strong, the use of reserves — a finite resource — only serves as a one-time structural buffer to protect taxpayers.
The district estimates that school taxes for 2026-27 will average $15,861, a $468 increase over the current school year.
The Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library budget — Proposition 2 on May 19 — totals just under $6.58 million, an increase of 0.3 over the current spending plan. It was presented by Director Michelle Young at the library board of trustees’ final budget work session on March 16, and approved unanimously.
Next month’s ballot will also include the election of two Board of Education trustees. Shari Amitrano and Cheryl May, both incumbents, submitted petitions to run again for three-year terms. They are both running unopposed.
The Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education voted unanimously to adopt its spending plan for the
April 15, freeing up over $1.8 million for capital reinvestments.
In a statement to the Herald, school board President Debi Sheinin said the trustees are proud of their work during this budget season — including the halfdozen public meetings and a Budget 101 session — which began in November.
“The result is a plan that reflects months of careful work and strikes a strong balance between advancing student outcomes and maintaining fiscal responsibility to our community,” Sheinin wrote.
For more information on the budget, visit hewlett-woodmere.net/district/ business-office/budget-development2026-2027-schoool-year.
April 28, 7 p.m. - All-District PTA Night
May 6, 6:30 p.m. - Annual budget hearing, Woodmere Education Center
May 13, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Special voter registration day
May 14 - Last day of voter registration
May 19, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. - School district and library budget votes and Board of Education election
Applications for absentee and early mail ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk, Woodmere Education Center, 1 Johnson Place, in Woodmere. The forms can also be downloaded at hewlett-woodmere.net.
By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
House Democrats secured enough bipartisan support last week to pass legislation to extend temporary protected status for roughly 350,000 Haitians living in the United States. Since Rep. Laura Gillen assumed office last year, she has backed a bill that would allow Haitian TPS holders legal status for three more years.
During a roundtable discussion in Elmont just days before the pivotal vote on April 16, Gillen acknowledged the limitations of temporary measures and pointed to broader legislative efforts, including bipartisan immigration proposals aimed at creating pathways to legal status.
The latest legislation would mark a transformational moment for TPS holders seeking clarity about their future. Haiti was first designated for TPS following a devastating 2010 earthquake, and ongoing instability has kept the designation in place.
Last week’s House effort, led by Rep. Ayanna Pressley and backed by Gillen and original co-sponsor Rep. Mike Lawler, secured the required 218 signatures earlier this month, triggering the House vote, in which it passed, 224-204.
“Our immigration system has been
broken for a long time,” Gillen said.
Mimi Pierre-Johnson, a community leader and activist in Elmont — home to one of Long Island’s largest Haitian populations — emphasized the importance of bipartisan support.
“This should be something that galvanized folks to understand it doesn’t matter about the people who’s trying to divide you, it’s what’s important to you, right?” Pierre-Johnson said. “So if your
neighbors that are going to work, paying taxes, you know, building a family, building a life, and the only thing stopping them from doing all of that is a piece of legislation.”
In January, Gillen signed a bipartisan letter urging the Trump administration to extend TPS for Haitian nationals ahead of the Feb. 3 expiration. She also met with White House officials to advocate for continued protections, efforts
that coincided with a federal court ruling issued one day before the deadline that preserved TPS.
Gillen reiterated the need for broader reform, noting the limits of temporary protections. She is also among the Democratic co-sponsors of the bipartisan Dignity Act, which aims to create a pathway to legal status for long-term U.S. residents.
Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, whose 22nd District encompasses Elmont, became the first person of Haitian descent elected to the New York State Legislature in 2012. Solages wrote in a statement that although the House vote should be applauded, progress “isn’t anywhere near the finish line” — referencing to the bill’s possible fate in the Senate and the likelihood of a presidential veto if it passes there.
“We may take this moment to rejoice at the progress made, but we cannot lose focus,” Solages said.
For advocates of the House bill, the push for TPS protections is about more than passing legislation; it reflects the realities of immigrant communities and the uncertainties they face.
The bill is now expected to move to the Senate for consideration, though a date for a vote has not yet been scheduled. Its aim is to protect Haitians who hold TPS through April 20, 2029.
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com
Residents and community members gathered in Woodmere for a Yom HaShoah commemoration at the Five Towns Premier Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on April 14. The annual observance honors the six million Jewish people killed during the Holocaust.
The day began with a sermon by Rabbi Heshy Blumstein of Yismach Moshe at The Premier, at 1050 Central Ave. in Woodmere. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the Holocaust and its lasting impact.
“There is no greater power than when good people come together,” Blumstein said.
Cathy Byrne, the Premier’s marketing business development manager, followed with vignettes from seven Holocaust survivors in attendance
Hedwig Heimlich, Libby Berger, Vera Dechter, Joseph Ivery, Rachel Tisser, Gean Ross and Marvin Jacobs. They range in age from 88 to 104.
Today,
Aidan Warshavsky/Herald
Residents and community members gathered in the lobby of the Five Towns Premier Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for a Yom HaShoah commemoration on April 14.
we stand in solidarity with Jewish people around the world.
Through Byrne, each survivor’s story reflected life in Europe and fleeing antisemitism in countries including Poland, Hungary and Germany. Their experiences emphasized the importance of education, appreciation for life and preserving their legacy.
CATHY BYRNe, 5 Towns Premier
“Hitler tried to destroy our people,”
Heimlich an 88-year-old survivor said through Byrne. “You are our truth that we are still here.”
Byrne said she organized the first Yom HaShoah commemoration at the facility in 2018, shortly after joining the staff, driven by a sense of moral responsibility to remain informed and continue learning.
“This is a specialty I have,” Byrne said, referencing her work as a trauma specialist touring Israel. “This is living history. In a few years, we won’t have survivors to tell their stories, so we should be honoring them and know what they went through.”
Avi Terebelo, the building’s administra-
tor, said his family immigrated from in Eastern Europe. A third-generation survivor, he noted that his last name reflects a Belarus-Italian family, Terrabella, that helped his ancestors escape during the Holocaust.
“The biggest takeaway is that these are residents and patrons here in our facility,” Terebelo said. “For us to really hear about their backstory was very meaningful for myself and many of the staff in the facility.”
The event also included songs and prayers led by students from Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva High School for Boys, underscoring the role of younger generations in preserving Holocaust memory.
“Today, we stand in solidarity with Jewish people around the world,” Byrne said. “We embrace them and will continue to honor them.”
Between 1933 and 1945, Jews were subject to immense persecution under Nazi Germany.
During that time, Jews were subject to immense persecution under Nazi Germany. When Adolph Hitler took power in 1933, he implemented anti-Jewish laws that stripped Jews of their citizenship and barred them from marrying non-Jews. Students were also barred from education.
On Nov. 9, 1938, during Kristallnacht — the “Night of Broken Glass” — more than 1,400 Synagogues were burned, businesses were looted, and 26,000 Jewish men were arrested.
Between 1939 and 1945, Jews were forced into overcrowded, walled-of ghettos, where they suffered from starvation, disease and forced labor. When the “Final Solution” began, Nazi Germany constructed concentration camps like Auschwitz and Treblinka.
Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.
Students at Franklin Early Childhood Center took part in a week of hands-on learning focused on maple syrup production, connecting classroom lessons with real-world experiences.
Students participated in the school’s annual maple tree tapping activity, observing a tapped tree up close and learning how sap is collected and turned into syrup. Despite lessthan-ideal weather, students spent time outdoors exploring the process firsthand.
The maple tree used for the activity was purchased two years ago with support from the PTA and Board of Education, helping make the program possible. Staff from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County also assisted, providing guid-
ance throughout the experience.
The lesson continued later in the week during the school’s “Pancakes & Pajamas” event, a PTA-sponsored program in which students gathered in pajamas to enjoy a pancake breakfast. The event tied directly to the earlier activity, allowing students to taste syrup connected to the process they had learned about.
From tapping the tree to sampling the finished product, the program gave students a tangible understanding of how maple syrup is made while reinforcing classroom instruction.
School officials thanked the PTA, volunteers and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County for their support in making the program possible.
— Melissa Berman
Four Hewlett High School students have been named national finalists in the GENIUS Olympiad for their research on environmental issues.
David Balzac, Arielle Kauderer, Alexa LaPaglia and Valeria Paez Martinez conducted their projects in the school’s science laboratories.
LaPaglia and Kauderer studied how different wavelengths of light affect plant sensitivity to salinity, with potential implications for agriculture. Paez Martinez examined the genetic strategies ferns use to compete with flowering plants, while Balzac researched the impact of cigarette smoke on gene regulation.
The GENIUS Olympiad, orga-
nized by Terra Science and Education and hosted by the Rochester Institute of Technology, brings together students from around the world to present projects across eight disciplines focused on environmental challenges.
School officials congratulated the students on their achievement as they prepare to compete at the international level.
— Melissa Berman
Thirteen ninth grade students in Hewlett High School’s Introduction to Science Research classes have earned honorable mention in the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Competition, the nation’s largest K-12 STEM competition.
The students, who are taught by Emma Kriss, were recognized among approximately 10 percent of teams nationwide to receive the distinction. As part of the competi-
tion, students researched existing technologies, examined their historical development and proposed innovations that could become viable within the next 10 to 20 years.
The EcoDrone team — Danir Dzhakhanov, Natalie Hesney and Jacqueline Hsi — developed a drone system using biodegradable materials and sustainable design.
Ella Giordano, Julia Kern and Sophie Khazan designed a method
to improve the delivery of immunotherapy treatments for brain cancer.
The AquaHeal team — Londyn Gershfeld, Nora Kovtun, Aviva Kravets and Abigail Kurtz — proposed a treatment for severe burns using genetically modified fish skin to promote healing and reduce complications.
— Melissa Berman
Friday, April 24: Rides 6 PM - 10 PM Saturday, April 25: Rides 11 AM - 9 PM Sunday, April 26: Rides 11 AM - 7 PM
Sat. & Sun. 10 AM - 6 PM
Compiled By Herald Staff
Charlotte Jacobs Massapequa Park
I like to do doodles and to color with my mom and my sister. Sometimes my sister gets markers on my pictures, but that’s okay.
Mackenzie Alessandro Glen Cove, age 11
I like to go to Claymation and paint.
Tim Baker/Herald
Charlie McDonald Rockville Centre, age 8
I like to go to the library and play on my iPad and look for books.
Tim Baker/Herald
Aviana Mannino Lynbrook, age 12
Calling my friends and playing Roblox and watching Hannah Montana.
Tim Baker/Herald
Alonnah Joggy East Meadow I love being in my room listening to the rain while playing music and falling asleep. Abbey Salvemini/Herald
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
+ Q&A
DRAWINGS MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN
Register for this FREE event: Seaford.eventbrite.com or email rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273
By Abbey Salvemini
As spring moves forward towards its peak, Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay bursts into a vivid celebration of color, nature and community. This weekend, April 25–26, the inaugural Branches in Bloom Festival invites visitors to stroll beneath sweeping canopies of magnolias, cherry blossoms and other flowering trees.
Blending longstanding tradition with new experiences, the festival refreshes the site’s beloved Arbor Day celebration of years past. Guests can explore the historic estate in colorful bloom while enjoying guided tours, live entertainment and familyfriendly activities, making it an easy spring highlight for visitors of all ages.
The new festival is both a tribute and a transformation.
“Branches in Bloom is a reimagination of a 40-year-old tradition here at Planting Fields,” Communications and Marketing Manager Kayla Cheshire says. “It’s still in honor of Arbor Day, but now we’re really able to focus on our spring flowering collection, something thousands of visitors come to see each year.”
That shift is most visible in the festival’s new setting. Instead of hosting activities away from the colorful trees, organizers moved the entire event to the West Lawn, placing everyone directly among the site’s most stunning seasonal displays. That change will have an immediate impact, according to Stewardship Director Lilly McGurk.
“The focus on the spring blooms is really going to knock everybody’s socks off,” she says with enthusiasm.
The refreshed format also reflects a broader push to make the festival more engaging and accessible to all audiences. While hands-on tree education and environmental programming remain at its core, the expanded offerings are designed to be inviting for families, younger visitors and those discovering the grounds for the first time.
“We wanted to create something that feels contemporary and welcoming to all,” McGurk explains. “People are looking to get outside, enjoy nature and spend time together. This brings in that wellness aspect while still celebrating the environment.”
Over the course of the weekend, the festival
blends learning with leisure, offering something for both the curious and the casual visitor. Guided tours led by expert horticulturalists, including Arboretum Director Vincent Simeone, provide behind-the-scenes insight into the site’s celebrated collections, while interactive demonstrations and displays offer practical inspiration for gardeners at every level.
Music, magic shows, jugglers and roaming performers keep the grounds buzzing with energy throughout the day. Anchoring the schedule are performances by Strummin’ and Drummin’ (spanning late morning into the afternoon), complemented by face painting, caricatures and a lineup of food trucks offering plenty of casual bites and treats.
For families, interactive experiences are a major draw. The Kids Tree Climb run by longtime sponsor Wonderland Tree Care + Landscapes returns as a centerpiece activity, giving children the chance to safely scale trees under professional supervision. Due to high demand, last entry is at 2:30 p.m. to ensure all finish by the 4 p.m. close.
• Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Admission is $30 per car, or if taking the LIRR to Oyster Bay, $5 per person (kids under 3 free); learn at plantingfields.org
• 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
Craft stations include simple coloring and imaginative projects like wearable “bee crowns,” designed to spark creativity and connect visitors to nature.
“We design activities with everyone in mind,” McGurk says. “There are things for kids, adults and families to enjoy together.”
The festival also underscores the broader mission of the Planting Fields Foundation, which works in partnership with New York State Parks, to preserve and maintain stewardship of the site. Beyond its celebrated horticulture, the organization continues to highlight the estate’s layered history, art and culture — threads that run throughout the programming and shape the visitor experience.
“There’s so much more here than just the plants,” Cheshire adds. “There’s history, there’s art, there’s culture. Events like this allow us to showcase all of that while making the site accessible to people of all ages and abilities.”
Accessibility remains a priority. This year, organizers pilot a shuttle from the Oyster Bay LIRR station making it easier for visitors from throughout the region to attend without a car. Supported by a state tourism grant through I Love New York, this expands the festival’s reach.
“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Cheshire says. “This is about creating access not just to the festival, but to green space and nature in general.”
Even with its expanded offerings, Branches in Bloom remains firmly rooted in its Arbor Day heritage. Tree giveaways, educational exhibits, a plant sale, and environmental partnerships continue to anchor the festival, preserving its mission-driven focus while allowing it to evolve and resonate with a new generation.
With blooms in full display, immersive activities and a renewed focus on community connection, organizers aim for the festival to take root as a lasting seasonal celebration.
“It’s a new take on a tradition that means a lot to us. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together, celebrating the season and sharing this incredible place with as many people as possible,” Cheshire says.
In the long tradition of American roots music family groups, the Chapin family holds a distinctive place. Tom Chapin, Steve Chapin, Jen Chapin, and The Chapin Sisters (Abigail and Lily Chapin) are all accomplished artists with a shared commitment to family and music that connects deeply with audiences. Their performances together bring that spirit into focus in a powerful and personal way at this special concert honoring Harry Chapin’s legacy. Two generations of his family come together to perform his songs, joined by The Harry Chapin Band, featuring Big John Wallace and Howard Fields.His iiconic works are performed lwith the energy and intimacy they were written with in mind. In keeping with Harry’s lifelong commitment to fighting hunger, everyone is encouraged to bring nonperishable items, to be donated to a local food bank.
Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. $91, $71, $51. JLandmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Chazz Palminteri returns with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on his bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nineyears-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that forever shaped his world-view. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro—and later a hit Broadway musical.
Sunday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m., also April 24, April 26-27 and April 29-30
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048 APR
The Lovin’ Spoonful Fondly known as “America’s answer to the Beatles,” the band brings their chart-topping folk-rock hits to the Madison Theatre. Formed in New York’s Greenwich Village, The Lovin’ Spoonful, made up of original band members John Sebastian, Steve Boone, Joe Butler, and Zal Yanovsky, exploded onto the charts sending their first seven singles soaring onto Billboard’s Top-10 virtually overnight. Their first single, “Do You Believe in Magic,” flew to the top of the charts, followed by an unprecedented string of hits. Today, The Lovin’ Spoonful tours with founding member Steve Boone, along with Jeff Alan Ross (Badfinger, Peter Asher), Bill Cinque (Neil Diamond), longtime drummer Mike Arturi, and Rob Bonfiglio (The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson Band, Wilson Phillips).
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
26
Rock Hall Museum Exhibit
As the United States marks its semiquincentennial, Long Island stands as a powerful reminder of the challenges, sacrifices, and divided loyalties that shaped the Revolutionary era. Situated just miles from
Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library hosts John Michel, MS, Nutritionist, for an empowering and practical presentation on heart health. In Heart Health 101, you’ll discover how everyday food choices and simple lifestyle habits can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. John will break down the science of nutrition in a way that’s easy to understand, offering actionable tips on building a heart-healthy plate, recognizing nutrient-rich foods, and making sustainable changes that support lifelong cardiovascular wellness.
• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett
• Time: 3-4 p.m.
• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of 53 years of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roofraising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before. The band has lways delivered on their promises. In 1976, they debuted as the most explosive indie breakthrough act of the decade. Throughout the ‘80s/’90s MTV era, Thorogood was the epitome of snakeskin and shades guitar-slinger cool. And with chart-topping hits like ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’, ‘Move It On Over’, ‘Who Do You Love?’, ‘I Drink Alone’, ‘Get A Haircut’ and the ultimate badass anthem ‘Bad To The Bone’, the band soon became undeniable cornerstones of classic Rock. Meanwhile, their album catalog continues to dominate streaming charts worldwide.
British occupied New York City, Long Island was one of the most politically divided areas in the colonies and became one of the most strategically vital and most conflicted regions. This exhibit explores how the Martin family of Rock Hall stood at the crossroads of the Revolution. Join in opening day, Light refreshments will be served.
• Where: 199 Broadway Lawrence
• Time: 1:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 239-1157
Game Time
APR
Visit Peninsula Public Library for Canasta, Mah Jongg, Scrabble and more. Seating is limited and is first come, first seated.
• Where: 280 Central Ave., Lawrence
• Time: Ongoing weekly, 2 p.m.
• Contact: peninsulapublic.org or (516) 967-5777
APR
29
Tai Chi for Longevity join Martial arts/Tai Chi instructor Marvin German as he teaches the principles of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, at Hewlett-
Woodmere Public Library. Focus is developing physical strength, balance, and mental focus for all ages. Registration required.
• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett
• Time: 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m., also June 3 and June 24.
• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967
Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,” back at the museum by popular demand. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! It’s not easy being the Pigeon— you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also April 30-May 1
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
APR
Lawrence Board of Trustees meet
The Village of Lawrence Board of Trustees welcome all to their monthly meeting Attend to learn what is going on in the community and to speak out about issues and concerns.
• Where: 196 Central Ave., Lawrence
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 239-4600
Learn identify A.I. images and videos with the Nassau County Library Techmobile staff at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library. In this one-hour program, attendees will understand if an image, photograph, or video was created organically or if it was machine-generated. Also discuss why it is important to understand the difference.
• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967
Temple Hillel hosts Sal St. George who gives a multi-media presentation on iconic females including Liza Minnelli, Cher, Dolly Parton, Bette Midler and Sally Fields celebrating their 80th birthday. $5 for temple members and $8 for non-members. Refreshments will be served.
• Where: 1000 Rosedale Road, Valley Stream
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 791-6344
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of Isabel Sanchez Vergara’s “Little People Big Dreams.” Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
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.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION OF THE HEWLETTWOODMERE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Public Hearing of the qualified voters of the HewlettWoodmere Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, New York, will be held in the Woodmere Education Center, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, in said district on May 6, 2026, at 6:30 PM, prevailing time, for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:
1. To present to the voters a detailed statement of the amount of money which will be required for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
2. To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machine at the Budget Vote and Election to be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget for 2026-2027, exclusive of public moneys, may be obtained by any resident of the District beginning May 5, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays at the Office of the District Clerk, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, at the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library, 1125 Broadway, Hewlett, and on the District’s internet website.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that said Budget Vote and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in the Woodmere Education Center, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, between the hours of 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM prevailing time, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machine upon the following items:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to
authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
2. Resolved that the 2026-2027 fiscal year Library budget proposed by the Board of Trustees of the HewlettWoodmere Union Free School District Public Library, and the levy of a tax appropriation therefore, in accordance with the provisions of Section 259 of the Education Law, shall be approved.
3. To elect two (2) members of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2029.
4. To elect one (1) Trustee of the HewlettWoodmere Public Library for a five (5) year term of office commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2031.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by the statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in her office in Woodmere Education Center, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, not later than April 20, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM prevailing time. Each petition shall be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least 38 qualified voters of the District. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered
separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated. To nominate a candidate for the office of Trustee of the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library Board, each petition must be signed by at least thirtyeight (38) voters of the District. Vacancies on the Board of Trustees are not considered separate specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. The Board of Registration will meet for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, prevailing time, to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, on
each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment between 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM, and at the polling place(s) n the day of the vote. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, the voters may register with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the District Administration Office, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when school is in session at any day on or before May 14, 2026 to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting with the Clerk of said School District he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Clerk of said School District to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, at her office in the District Administration Office, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment between 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM, and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. An application for registration as a military voter can be requested from the District Clerk in the Woodmere Education Center, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, and must be returned to said office no later than 5:00 PM, April 23, 2026. In the request for an application for registration, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for
registration by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the District may submit an application for a military ballot or before April 23, 2026, from the Office of the District Clerk, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York. The original military ballot application must be returned by mail or in person to the District Clerk, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, during school business hours, no later than 5:00 PM on April 23, 2026. In the request for an application for a military ballot, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for a military ballot, and the military ballot, by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail. All qualified military voters’ ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. Ballots for military voters shall be distributed to qualified military voters no later than April 24, 2026. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk (1) before the close of the polls, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, and must show a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or must show a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or (2) not later than 5:00 pm on the day of the election and be signed and dated by the military voter and one witness, with a date ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.
A list of persons to whom military ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment between 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM, and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate
grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for early mail ballots and absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk beginning Monday, April 20, 2026; completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 20, 2026 and at least seven (7) days before the election, May 12, 2026, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, May 18, 2026, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Early mail ballots and absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Applications for absentee ballots or early mail ballots may also be printed from the District website www.hewlettwoodmere.net and delivered to the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026, in the manner described above. A list of persons to whom early mail ballots and absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls. A challenge to an absentee ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an early mail ballot.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with Section 2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the Clerk of the Board of Education at the District
Office, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, New York, in sufficient time to permit notice of the proposition to be included with the Notice of the Public Hearing, Budget Vote and Election required by Section 2004 of the Education Law or on or before Friday, April 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM, prevailing time; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 94 qualified voters of the District (representing 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful, or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot.
Dated: Woodmere, New York, March 18, 2026 By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE HEWLETT-WOODMERE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York District Clerk 159343
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTA Y ELECCIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNIÓN DE HEWLETT-WOODMERE El distrito escolar Woodmere Union Free School District, en la ciudad de Hempstead, Nueva York, se llevará a cabo en el 3. Elegir a dos (2) miembros de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres (3) años que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2029. La votación sobre el presupuesto y las elecciones se celebrarán el martes 19 de mayo de 2026.
2. Se resuelve que el presupuesto de la biblioteca para el año fiscal 2026-2027 propuesto por la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca Pública
del Distrito Escolar Unificado Gratuito de Hewlett-Woodmere, y la imposición de una asignación de impuestos para tal fin, de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Sección 259 de la Ley de Educación, serán aprobados.
1. Presentar a los votantes un estado detallado de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2026-2027.
1. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la parte necesaria del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad gravable del Distrito. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE una copia del estado de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para financiar el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar para 2026-2027, excluyendo los fondos públicos, puede ser obtenida por cualquier residente del Distrito a partir del 5 de mayo de 2026, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora local, excepto sábados, domingos o días festivos en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, en la Biblioteca Pública Hewlett-Woodmere, 1125 Broadway, Hewlett, y en el sitio web del Distrito. Centro Educativo Woodmere, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, en dicho distrito el 6 de mayo de 2026, a las 6:30 p. m., hora vigente, para la realización de negocios según lo autorizado por el CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK 4. Elegir un (1) Fideicomisario de la Biblioteca Pública Hewlett-Woodmere por un período de cinco (5) años que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2031. Ley de Educación, incluyendo los siguientes puntos: POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una Audiencia Pública de los votantes calificados de Hewlett2. Discutir todos los puntos que se exponen a continuación para ser votados mediante máquina de votación en el 3. Tratar cualquier otro asunto que pueda presentarse debidamente ante la
reunión de conformidad con Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York y sus modificaciones. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE la mencionada votación del presupuesto y las elecciones se celebrarán el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 en el Centro Educativo Woodmere, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 10:00 p. m., hora local, momento en el que se abrirán las urnas para votar mediante máquina de votación sobre los siguientes temas: La Junta de Registro se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación el miércoles 13 de mayo de 2026, de 8:00 a. m. a 8:00 p. m., hora local, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la elección antes mencionada, en cuyo momento cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro siempre que en dicha reunión de dicha Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en esa elección o posteriormente en la misma para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro preparado de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, y estará abierto para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora local, todos los días anteriores al día fijado para la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026, con cita previa entre las 10:00 a. m. y la 1:30 p. m., y en el/los lugar(es) de votación el día de la votación. Asimismo, se notifica que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio conforme al Artículo 2014 de la Ley de Educación o al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente
conforme al Artículo 2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una asamblea distrital anual o extraordinaria en los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, podrá votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y puede votar conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, también podrá votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deberán registrarse. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exenciones. Dicho informe de exenciones, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cómo el valor catastral total del padrón catastral final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada por la autoridad legal y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, el monto acumulativo que se espera recibir como pagos en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. Además, dicho informe de exenciones deberá publicarse en cualquier tablón de anuncios que el Distrito mantenga para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web que mantenga el Distrito. Y SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las peticiones para nominar candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberán presentarse ante la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar en su oficina en Woodmere Education Center, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026, entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m. hora local. Cada petición deberá dirigirse a la Secretaria del Distrito; deberá estar firmada por al menos 38 votantes calificados del Distrito. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos específicos separados; los candidatos se postulan a nivel general. Las peticiones de nominación no deberán describir ninguna
vacante específica en la Junta para la cual se nomina al candidato. Para nominar a un candidato para el cargo de Fideicomisario de la Junta de la Biblioteca Pública HewlettWoodmere, cada petición deberá estar firmada por al menos treinta y ocho (38) votantes del Distrito. Las vacantes en la Junta de Fideicomisarios no se consideran cargos específicos separados; los candidatos se postulan a nivel general. Las solicitudes de nominación no deberán describir ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual se nomina al candidato. Una lista de las personas a quienes se les entregan boletas militares estará disponible para su inspección por los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora local, todos los días previos al día fijado para la elección anual, excepto el domingo, y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026, con cita previa entre las 10:00 a. m. y la 1:30 p. m., y el 19 de mayo de 2026, el día fijado para la elección.
Asimismo, se notifica que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar su inscripción como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. La solicitud de inscripción como votante militar puede solicitarse en la oficina del secretario del distrito, ubicada en el Centro Educativo Woodmere, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, y debe devolverse a dicha oficina a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 23 de abril de 2026. En la solicitud de inscripción, el votante militar puede indicar si prefiere recibirla por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE los votantes pueden registrarse con la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar en su oficina en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, entre las horas de 8:00 a. m. y 4:00 p. m., cuando la escuela esté en sesión en cualquier día hasta el 14 de mayo de 2026 para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la elección antes
mencionada, en cuyo momento cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre sea colocado en dicho Registro siempre que en dicha reunión con la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar que tiene derecho a votar en esa elección para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro preparado de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, en su oficina en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, y estará abierto para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora local, todos los días anteriores al día fijado para la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026, con cita previa entre las 10:00 a. m. y la 1:30 p. m., y en el/los lugar(es) de votación el día de la votación. Asimismo, se notifica que los votantes militares que cumplan con los requisitos para votar en el Distrito pueden presentar una solicitud de boleta militar antes del 23 de abril de 2026 en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, ubicada en One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York. La solicitud original de boleta militar debe enviarse por correo o entregarse en persona en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, ubicada en One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, durante el horario escolar, a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 23 de abril de 2026. En la solicitud de una boleta militar, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud y la boleta por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Todas las solicitudes y boletas militares de los votantes calificados deben devolverse por correo postal o en persona. Las boletas para los votantes militares se distribuirán a los votantes calificados a más tardar el 24 de abril de 2026. Las boletas militares deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito
(1) antes del cierre de las urnas, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026, y deben mostrar un sello de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o deben mostrar un endoso de recepción fechado por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección y estar firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se determine que no sea posterior al día anterior a la elección.
DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNIÓN DE HEWLETT-WOODMERE
Las papeletas de voto en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario escolar en la oficina del secretario del distrito.
Inspector electoral antes del cierre de las urnas. El votante calificado presente en el lugar de votación puede objetar la votación de la papeleta por motivos apropiados haciendo su impugnación y dando a conocer las razones por las cuales
Y POR LA PRESENTE
SE DA ADEMÁS AVISO que las solicitudes de boletas de voto anticipado por correo y Una lista de las personas a quienes se les emiten boletas de voto anticipado por correo y boletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para su consulta por los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir de El jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 8:00 y las 16:00 horas, hora local, todos los días previos a la fecha fijada para las elecciones anuales, excepto el domingo, y el 19 de mayo de 2026, fecha fijada para las elecciones. Cualquier votante cualificado presente en el centro de votación podrá impugnar la votación por motivos justificados, presentando su impugnación y las razones correspondientes al inspector electoral antes del cierre de las urnas. No se podrá impugnar una papeleta de voto en ausencia alegando que el votante debería haber solicitado una papeleta de voto anticipado por correo.
A partir del lunes 20
de abril de 2026, las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes del 20 de abril de 2026 y al menos siete (7) días antes de las elecciones, el 12 de mayo de 2026, si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día anterior a las elecciones, el 18 de mayo de 2026, si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante. Las boletas de voto anticipado por correo y las boletas de voto en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora local, del martes 19 de mayo de 2026. Las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia o boletas de voto anticipado por correo también pueden imprimirse desde el sitio web del Distrito www.hewlettwoodmere.net y entregarse al Secretario del Distrito a partir del 20 de abril de 2026, de la manera descrita anteriormente. JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
DEL Por orden de Municipio de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, Nueva York Secretario del distrito Fecha: Woodmere, Nueva York, 18 de marzo de 2026 Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE, de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la Sección 2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o proposición para enmendar el presupuesto, o de otro modo para ser sometido a votación en dicha elección, debe ser presentado ante el Secretario de la Junta de Educación en la Oficina del Distrito, One Johnson Place, Woodmere, Nueva York, con tiempo suficiente para permitir que el aviso de la proposición se incluya con el Aviso de la Audiencia Pública, Votación del Presupuesto y Elección requerido por la Sección 2004 de la Ley de Educación o a más tardar el viernes 17 de abril de 2026, a las 5:00 p. m., hora vigente; debe estar mecanografiado o impreso en idioma inglés; debe estar dirigido al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; debe estar firmado por al menos 94 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el 5% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no considerará ninguna petición para someter a votación ninguna propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las facultades de los votantes para determinar, que sea ilegal, o ninguna propuesta que no incluya una asignación específica cuando el gasto de fondos sea requerido por la propuesta, o cuando exista otra razón válida para excluir la propuesta de la boleta electoral. 159345 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF STARWOOD MORTGAGE RESIDENTIAL TRUST 2020-1, Plaintiff, vs. JOHNSON PLACE HOLDINGS LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 17, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 30 Johnson Place, Woodmere, NY 11598. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Hamlet of Woodmere, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 41, Block 101 and Lot 329 f/k/a Section 41, Block 101, and Lot Part of lot 2. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,101,512.31 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 617161/2023.
85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 231781-1 159305
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter:
Agency: Board of Trustees, Village of Hewlett Neck
Date: May 12, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm
Place: Village Hall, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York
Subject: Bill HN-01-26.
A local law to amend section 140-20.2 of the Code of Village of Hewlett Neck, to amend the parking waiver authorization provisions to include authorization to incorporate additional parking measures to improve travel upon the issuance of a parking waiver.
At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matters. The proposed law is an Unlisted Action under SEQRA, as to which no environmental determination has been made by the Board of Trustees
Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation. All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York, during regular business hours.
Dated: April 23, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Michelle Blandino, Village Clerk 159793
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING OF BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE INWOOD FIRE DISTRICT, INWOOD, NEW YORK, 11096. There will be a General Meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Inwood Fire District as follows:
following
Gerard A. Geisweller, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP,
Time:6:00 P.M..
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Place:DISTRICT OFFICE
Melissa Rivelli, District Secretary 159792
LEGAL NOTICE
INCORPORATED
VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST
PUBLIC NOTICE -
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP NO. PR-2026-003
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that sealed proposals will be received by the Village Clerk-Treasurer of the Incorporated Village of Cedarhurst, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY 11516, until May 7, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., for:
ANDREW J. PARISE
PARK - CONCESSION
STAND OPERATION
The concession will operate as a walk-up, grab-and-go kiosk offering pre-packaged food, beverages, coffee products, and similar items, subject to applicable regulations.
The successful proposer will enter into a license agreement with the Village and be responsible for all permits, equipment, staffing, operations, and maintenance of the concession area.
Request for Proposals documents may be obtained at Village Hall, online at cedarhurst.gov or via email at bids@cedarhurst.gov.
All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked:
“RFP - Andrew J. Parise Park Concession Stand OperationPR-2026-003” Proposals will be opened and reviewed at the time and place stated.
A signed Statement of Non-Collusion and all other required documents must accompany each proposal.
The Village reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, waive informalities, and accept the bid deemed most favorable to the Village.
Dated: April 17, 2026
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Jacob Plaut, Village Clerk-Treasurer 159794
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter:
Agency: Board of Appeals
Village of Woodsburgh
Date: May 6, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Village Hall, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York
Subject: Application of Marc & Solomon & Sharon Monderer, 889 Ivy Hill Road, Woodsburgh, New York, to construct a swimming pool, attached spa, fence enclosure and patio, which requires variances of the following Village Code sections: (a) § 150-47(B), to construct a swimming pool a permit from the board of appeals is required; (b) § 150-47(H), (i) to permit a swimming pool to be located in a front yard, where a pool shall be located in a rear yard, (ii) to permit the pool equipment to be located in a side yard, where it shall be located in a rear yard, (iii) to permit the pool fence to be located 7 feet from the southwest front lot line, where 25 feet is required, (iv) to permit the pool fence to be located 5 feet from the southeast front lot line, where 25 feet is required.
Premises are also known as Section 41, Block 110, Lot 1 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map.
At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matters.
This application is a Type II Action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act.
Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.
All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York, during regular business hours.
Dated: April 10, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Michelle Blandino, Village Clerk 159796
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter: Agency: Board of Appeals
Village of Woodsburgh
Date: May 6, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Village Hall, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York
Subject: Application of Marc & Sahava Goldberg, 840 Channel Road, Woodsburgh, New York, to construct a swimming pool, attached spa, fence enclosure and patio, which requires variances of the following Village Code sections: (a) § 150-39(B), to permit an impervious site coverage of 6,709.71 sqft., where the maximum permitted is 6,687.46 sqft.; (b) § 150-47(B), to construct a swimming pool a permit from the board of appeals is required; (c) § 150-47(H), (i) to permit a swimming pool to be located 15 feet from the rear property line, (ii) to permit a swimming pool fence to be located on the side and rear property lines, where it must be located 25 feet from the property lines, (iii) to permit the pool fence to be located in a side yard, where it is only permitted in a rear yard, (iv) to permit the pool equipment to be located in a side yard, where it is only permitted in a rear yard; (d) § 150-47(B), to permit no landscape screening along the exterior side of the fence, where the exterior side of the fence must be screened with landscaping. Premises are also known as Section 41, Block 69, Lot 13 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matters. This application is a Type II Action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act.
Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.
All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York, during regular business hours.
Dated: April 10, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Michelle Blandino, Village Clerk 159795
LEGAL NOTICE
INCORPORATED
VILLAGE OF LAWRENCE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING and PUBLIC HEARINGS
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Lawrence, at Lawrence Village Hall, 196 Central Avenue, Lawrence, New York 11559, on the 30th day of April, 2026, at 8:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time, and two (2) Public Hearings with respect to the following matters: Public Hearings
“ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 20262027 GENERAL BUDGET. In accordance with New York Village Law 5-508(3) the tentative Village Budget for the fiscal year commencing June 1, 2026 and ending May 31, 2027, a copy of which is available at the office of the Village Clerk where it may be inspected by any interested person during office hours.
“ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON the Annual Report to be filed by the Village for the year 2026 relating to the Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer Systems (MS4) as to compliance by the Village with the Storm Water Management Program (SWMP).
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT copies of the proposed items described above are on file/available in the office of the Village Clerk of the Village of Lawrence, NY, where the same is available for public inspection during regular office hours.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that all interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard on all meeting matters at the place and time aforesaid. If anyone needs special accommodations for a
disability, such person should contact the Village Clerk at least 5 days before the meeting.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to the requirements of the Open Meetings Law of the State of New York, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Lawrence will convene in public meeting at the place and time aforesaid for the purpose of conducting a regular meeting where general business will be conducted.
Dated: April 14, 2026
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Village of Lawrence, NY
Gerry Castro, Village Administrator 159791
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 35-2026
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 14th day of April 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 35-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 35-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: April 14, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
JOHN FERRETTI
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159767
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead
Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 28th day of April 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations:
BALDWIN GRAND AVENUE (TH 88/26) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the north curbline of Parsonage Street, north for a distance of 40 feet.
PARSONAGE STREET (TH 88/26) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Grand Avenue, west for a distance of 25 feet.
BELLMORE NEWBRIDGE ROAD (TH 77/26) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Camp Avenue, north for a distance of 35 feet.
MEROKEE PLACE (TH 91/26) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the south curbline of Grand Avenue, south for a distance of 40 feet.
(NR)ISLAND PARK AUSTIN BOULEVARD (TH 654(B)/25) West Side - NO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 12 feet north of the north curbline of Kingston Boulevard, north for a distance 98 feet.
ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 202-1 “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” from the following locations: NORTH BELLMORE NEWBRIDGE ROAD (TH 195/20) West Side15 MINUTE PARKINGstarting at a point 87 feet south of the south curbline of Fish Avenue, south for a distance of 30 feet.
(Adopted 12/8/20) EAST ATLANTIC BEACH TRENTON AVENUE (TH 407/71) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Beech Street, north for a distance of 50 feet.
(Adopted 11/16/71) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated: April 14, 2026
Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE
TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159762
LEGAL NOTICE
SANITARY DISTRICT NO. 14
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD RESOLUTION AS TO ANNUAL ELECTION FOR OFFICE OF COMMISSIONER(S) RESOLVED, that candidates for the office of Commissioner shall file their names with the Secretary of the Board of Commissioners of Sanitary District No. 14, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, at 2150 Bay Boulevard, Atlantic Beach, New York, at least thirty (30) days prior to May 20, 2026, and that such nominations must be submitted in petition form in conformance with the applicable provisions of the Election Law of the State of New York, subscribed by twentyfive (25) registered voters of the District. Such petition shall state the residence of each signer and shall state the name and residence of the candidate and the specific vacancy on the Board of Commissioners for which the candidate is nominated, which description shall include at least the length of the term of office. Each vacancy shall be considered a separate office, and a separate petition shall be required to nominate a candidate to each separate office. No person shall be nominated for more than one separate office on the Board of Commissioners.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ballots to be prepared for the election of District officers shall specify the names of the candidates duly filed, and, in addition, to provide blank spaces for each office to be filled at the election of May 20, 2026.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that in compliance with Section 213-a of the Town Law, preparation of the voter register for the May 20, 2026 election to the office of Commissioner(s) of this District shall be conducted on April 30, 2026, on which date the inspectors of election shall meet to commence the
preparation of the register between the hours of 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the offices of District No. 14, 2150 Bay Boulevard, Atlantic Beach, New York. The register shall include all qualified voters of the District who shall personally present themselves for registration and voters permanently registered with the Board of Elections of the County of Nassau on or before the 23rd day immediately preceding said election of May 20, 2026. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SANITARY DISTRICT NO. 14
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NEW YORK
Dated: April 7, 2026 159790
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 05/06/2026 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 238/26. WOODMEREShakila Parveen, Variances, lot area occupied, rear yard, construct 2nd floor addition, expanded rear deck, front covered porch & rear addition with roof deck, all attached to dwelling., N/s Midway Dr., 245’ W/o Bridge St., a/k/a 920 Midway Dr. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Woodmere within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full
Ogden Elementary School students took to the stage for a series of performances of “Shrek the Musical KIDS!” in the school cafetorium.
The Musical Theatre Workshop presented the show on March 26, 30 and 31, with both daytime and evening performances drawing enthusiastic audiences. The student cast brought the familiar story to life with energetic performances, colorful characters and musical numbers.
District officials praised the cast and
crew for their effort and dedication throughout the production.
The district also recognized Director Jaclyn Randazzo, Assistant Director Mary Villalba and Producer Mallory Notholt for their leadership in guiding the production.
The performances highlighted student talent and teamwork, while underscoring the importance of the arts at Ogden Elementary School.
— Melissa Berman
calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 159780
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that a license, number NA-0240-26-108875, for beer, cider, and wine has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, cider, and wine at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1047 Broadway, Woodmere, New York 11598, for
on-premises consumption.
DELICIOUS DISHES OF 5 TOWNS LLC d/b/a Capri 159752
Richner Communications, Inc. public notice rates will increase at a minimum of 9% for all notices published on or after May 1, 2026, to reflect rising production and distribution costs. To place a public notice contact 516-569-4000 x232.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2006-WMC4, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-WMC4 Plaintiff, Against LUCRECIO AQUINO, et al Defendant(s)
Students from Lawrence High School’s Hebrew Culture Club and African American Club attended the YOUnity Conference, a multicultural program sponsored by the Suffolk YJCC that brought together students from 12 high schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Accompanied by faculty advisers Janet Ganes, Janora Blackman and Donna Visconti, students spent the day participating in programs focused on unity, understanding and dialogue.
A highlight of the conference was a theatrical performance, “Letters from Anne and Martin,” presented by two actors. The production examined parallels between Anne Frank and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting themes of discrimination, injustice and resilience. Following the performance, students took part in a discussion on contemporary societal issues and the importance of speaking out against prejudice. Lawrence students contributed
to the conversation, sharing their perspectives and experiences.
The program also included breakout sessions led by facilitators, where students discussed topics related to diversity and inclusion. Participants were asked to respond to statements about issues affecting their education, encouraging critical thinking and respectful dialogue among peers.
The conference concluded with a presentation by guest speaker Tracy Edwards, who spoke about the work of the NAACP and the role of advocacy in promoting equity. Students were introduced to ways they can become involved in their communities and support efforts toward equality.
School officials said the experience provided students with an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and strengthen their commitment to building a more inclusive community.
— Melissa Berman
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/24/2018, 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, NY 11501 on 5/27/2026 at 3:00PM, premises known as 46 Saint George Place, Inwood, New York 11096, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York. Section 40 Block 57 Lot 48 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $466,857.24 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment
of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 16-008698 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Michael Ehrenreich, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 3/24/2026 File Number: 560-3388 CA 159802
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
Three students from Hewlett High School have earned international recognition after their scientific research was published in the Oxford Journal of Student Scholarship in March 2026.
Alexa LaPaglia, Arielle Kauderer and Sebastian Mendoza-Reyes were published in the peer-reviewed journal — a distinction that is uncommon for high school students. Their work underwent a rigorous evaluation process by external reviewers affiliated with Oxford University.
District officials noted that all three students conducted their research independently at the high school, without assistance from outside institutions.
Mendoza-Reyes’ study focused on identifying biomarkers that could allow for earlier detection of acute kidney injury, with the potential to improve patient outcomes through earlier intervention.
LaPaglia and Kauderer examined how specific blue light wavelengths affect plant growth in high-salinity soil conditions. Their findings suggest possible agricultural applications, particularly in regions where soil salinity limits food production.
The students conducted their research under the guidance of Dr. Terrence Bissoondial, the school’s science research coordinator, who supported the development and execution of the projects.
District officials praised the students’ dedication and focus on real-world prob-
lem-solving, adding that the achievement reflects the strength of Hewlett-Woodmere’s research program and its emphasis on academic excellence.
The publication marks a milestone for the students and underscores the role young researchers can play in contributing to global academic discourse.
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Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Valley Stream Subaru Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM Answer Phones, Light Clerical $17.00/Hour, Benefits, 401K Call Therese 516-825-8700
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I don’t have a permit yet, but I do have an impatient contractor
Q. I have been through a year of permits. My architect warned me it could take this long, but I didn’t believe them. My neighbor did the same addition and told me it would only take a few weeks for a permit, but then I learned they didn’t even get permits, and I’m really wondering if I should have done the same thing. I follow your column and can now attest to what you’ve been saying. We had to get a zoning variance, and it took many, many months certainly not a few weeks. Now we’re right at the end, and I’ve been assured by the building department that we’re “almost there.” Funny thing is, I still don’t have a permit, and my contractor is ready to move on to another project if we don’t start now. Should I just get started, to keep my contractor, knowing I’ll have the permit soon, or will there be problems if I do?
A. Getting started ahead of having a permit in hand is problematic. A licensed professional should never advise someone to deviate from an ordinance, law or building code. This issue ties directly into my last two columns about the New York state campaign to “Let Them Build.” Delays are costly. Between fuel increases and tariffs, every day makes a difference when it comes to the cost of construction.
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Building authorities won’t directly tell you that you could start without your permit, even if the permit is almost there. They do, however, have a method referred to as a “maintain” permit, where they recognize work that was already done and review it with an increased fee, in most cases. By doing so, they’re accommodating people to start construction without permits, even if they wouldn’t say so. It’s understandable that you feel you’re doing everything right, and shouldn’t be penalized for having done so, and therefore want to just start, already.
When you look over at your neighbor’s home, you may be compelled to follow their example, but remember, they, or some owner of that property in the future, will still have to file with building plans, even after the fact. When that happens, the building codes may have changed, or things that they did may not be compliant and will need reconstructing. This isn’t always the case, but when a professional is called to figure out what someone constructed and then to draw plans, after the fact, they find things that don’t always work out smoothly. It isn’t uncommon, when plans haven’t been reviewed and permitted, to find structure undersized, room sizes and ceiling heights smaller than allowed, not enough windows or the wrong-sized windows to meet light, ventilation and fire escape requirements, and more.
You’re doing this project the right way, and even though nobody will tell you that you can just start, there seem to be ways to condone your doing so.
Good luck!
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Three years ago this week, I had what I’ve called my “unexpected medical adventure.” As I described to readers then, it was a life-altering experience with a very good ending.
It all began innocuously enough, with a routine endoscopy for acid reflux in the summer of 2017 by my gastroenterologist, Dr. Michael Barth. As expected, the procedure turned up nothing, and Barth simply prescribed a medication, which I took regularly. Over the next few years, I had few symptoms, and put off my fiveyear follow-up endoscopy.
Finally, at Barth’s insistence, I scheduled another endoscopy in March 2023. I had no concern. Just closing the loop. Just another test guys my age go through. Imagine my surprise when I woke up from the procedure and Barth told me that he’d found a protrusion in my stomach wall. While he thought it was benign, he recommended that I see Dr. Arvino Trini-
dade, a specialist at Northwell, who scheduled a biopsy at Long Island Jewish hospital.
Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau County Police Department detective who’d been on my security detail when I was in Congress, offered to drive me and Rosemary to the hospital. Before I was taken into the operating room, Trinidade told me he thought there was nothing there. But when I woke up, he told me there was a tumor, and it was probably malignant. Four days later, Barth and Trinidade called to confirm it. But they were confident of a good outcome, and told me the surgery would be done at LIJ by Dr. Matthew Weiss, a premier cancer surgeon.
iWABC-AM studios in Manhattan and attended a political dinner at King Umberto’s in Elmont. I told almost nobody about the upcoming surgery. With a day to go, I began a liquid diet, with Jell-O being the closest thing to solid food.
’ve become more aware of those who receive more severe diagnoses than mine.
That afternoon, Weiss called and told me I should be confident of complete success. He casually told me to “enjoy the weekend.” That evening, Rosemary and I had dinner at an Italian restaurant in Manhattan with Zimmerman and her husband, Lance.
The following week, I had appointments at Northwell, saw my cardiologist in Manhattan to get his sign-off on the operation, did several radio shows at the
Early Monday morning, Zimmerman again drove us to the hospital. By 6:30 I was ready for showtime. Lying on a gurney with an intravenous tube in my arm, I was wheeled into the operating room, a science fiction-style enclosure crowded with doctors, nurses, bright lights and a table filled with knives and scissors. An epidural was painlessly inserted in my spine, and an anesthesia mask placed over my face.
The next thing I knew, I was in the recovery room, and Rosemary was telling me that Weiss said that all had gone well. I had no significant pain — unless I moved or reached for something. Each day the pain receded, and I was able to walk a little more. When I was discharged the following Saturday, I walked from the hospital to the car.
At home I was able to eat regularly, felt nothing more than soreness at the
incision site and, after a week or so, was outside, walking a few more blocks each day. As the doctors had predicted, all follow-up tests showed complete success. I recounted much of this to readers at the time. Now, having had three years to reflect and put it all in perspective, I appreciate more than ever how fortunate I’ve been: Barth urging me to get the “routine” endoscopy; Trindade and Weiss being ultimate professionals; and having strong family support from Rosemary; my son, Sean; my daughter, Erin; and my sister, Barbara, who’s a nurse. There were also the friends who took the time to visit me in the hospital or call to wish me luck.
I’ve also become increasingly aware of the many people who receive much more severe diagnoses than I had, which do not end well. I was also fortunate to have access to outstanding medical care at a first-rate hospital. (To the naysayers and critics, I didn’t have any congressional or federal health insurance.) I’m also grateful that I broke loose from the traditional Irish suspicion and distrust of doctors and hospitals.
Yes, I’m a lucky guy!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
These nearly two months of war in Iran have me, and countless others, more on edge than we have ever been. The idea that a conflict in the Middle East could become World War III is very unsettling. When a war is that far away and the parties themselves have a long history of bickering, our lives become unsettled, and we need diversions.
To blot out the talking heads on Fox, MS Now and CNN, I found myself looking for other distractions beyond my work as a government-affairs specialist. I watched some sports events, tuning to NCAA baskeball’s Final Four, hoping to relax. To my surprise, those games could ruin your sleep if you watched every upset. I was rooting for St. John’s, and when the junior point guard Dylan Darling sank a driving, buzzer-beating layup to beat Kansas and send the Red Storm to their first Sweet 16 in 27 years,
I almost fell off my chair.
A lot of the other games had surprise endings, and when the final ended with a Michigan victory, I realized that watching the tournament wasn’t the best way to avoid nail-biting. So I turned to other sports, and anything that would distract me from all the news about the Israelis killing Iranian leaders one by one. I got some initial relief watching a women’s pro hockey game between New York Sirens and the Seattle Torrent at Madison Square Garden. It was nice to watch a no-nonsense game that attracted a record crowd of 18,000 .
pages unnerved me, when he lavished praise on the recently ousted attorney general, Pam Bondi.
s t. John’s basketball. Women’s hockey. Testing Negative for Stupid — and more.
I also watched the women’s basketball national championship. There were quite a few nervous moments until the final game, when UCLA won its first national title.
Then I decided to do some casual reading, and started with Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy’s new book, titled “How to Test Negative for Stupid, And Why Washington Never Will.” Most of its 224 pages are a lot of fun, thanks to Kennedy’s folksy humor, but the last 30
Rather than move on to a new book, I turned my attention to my streaming television services, Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, in the hope of finding some feelgood movies. When I opened them up, they offered me such calming films as “Supernatural,” “Scream,” “Send Help,” “Sinners” and “The Substance.” I know there are other offerings, but most of the feel-good movies are old and I’ve already seen them. All my life, I’ve loved good comedy. I cherish the great old names like Jackie Mason, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Jerry Lewis, Jackie Gleason, George Carlin, Don Rickles and Lenny Bruce. Occasionally I stumble on one of these legends on Facebook, and try to share their comedy with people around me. Regrettably, there are no comedians these days that give me the same belly laughs that I got from those giants. My grandson in Los Angeles heads up a unit of Netflix that promotes a number of comedians, but I
haven’t adapted to their new style.
So where do I go for some badly needed diversion? I’m a devout Knicks and Yankees fan, but there’s no way I can get a Knicks playoff ticket without paying big dollars. I love going to Yankees games, too, but their tickets are getting pricier, so I limit my purchases to no more than three games. I enjoy watching major golf tournaments, but sometimes you feel as if the announcers will put you to sleep with their commentary. I am looking forward to the U.S. Open in June, though.
Some of us are lucky to have hobbies that help us escape the pressures of today’s headlines. I love writing and making speeches, but neither lulls you into a peaceful state of mind. Short of moving to Antarctica, where I imagine you can avoid the daily news horrors, I’ll keep trying to find some other relaxing activity. I still watch TV for the weather reports, but goodbye to the other channels.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.
as spring returns and families stream back to neighborhood parks, playgrounds quickly reclaim their place as a focus of community life. They are where children test their limits, build confidence and simply enjoy being kids.
But beneath that joy lies a sobering reality: More than 200,000 children, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, are injured on playgrounds each year in the United States — many in ways that are preventable.
That’s why National Playground Safety Week, April 20-24, should be treated as more than a symbolic observance. It is a necessary prompt for parents, caregivers, schools and local officials to refocus on safety as playground use surges.
Playgrounds were never meant to be spaces for careless behavior. In fact, they were created with safety and development in mind. In the 19th century, educators such as Friedrich Fröbel promoted the idea of structured play as essential to childhood growth, helping to instill cooperation, coordination and social skills.
As cities grew more crowded and streets more dangerous with the rise of motor vehicles, playgrounds became protected environments where children could play away from traffic and other hazards. Early efforts by civic groups and park advocates helped establish designated play areas as a public safety measure — a mission that still resonates today.
To the Editor:
The frequent rescheduling of Peninsula Public Library board meetings makes it impossible for people to attend. I wrote to the board before the last meeting, and seemingly nothing has changed.
I am deeply concerned about the elevator situation. The prolonged outage has created a significant barrier for many members of our community, especially senior citizens, who frequently visit the library for companionship and enjoy playing mahjong or canasta, attending lectures, participating in crafts or cooking lessons, and many other essential social activities. The current situation presents several critical issues:
In the U.S., the Outdoor Recreation League funded the building of playgrounds on parkland after newspapers reported on the high number of children run down by cars in New York. One of the first recreational areas in America was built in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park in 1887.
Yet even within these safer spaces, risks remain — especially after months of winter wear and limited use. Equipment may have loosened, surfaces can degrade, and aging structures may no longer meet modern safety standards. The playgrounds’ young users, meanwhile, return with pent-up energy, eager to climb higher and move faster than conditions safely allow. Caregivers often distracted by cell phones only add to the challenge.
Preventing injuries doesn’t require diminishing the joy of play, but does require managing the environment around it. The National Program for Play Area Safety is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes practical, researchbased strategies that communities can adopt. Chief among them is active, attentive supervision. Its “ABC” model — Anticipating hazards, Behaving in ways that guide safe play and Considering the unique needs of each playground — makes clear that safety is not passive. It is intentional.
The program builds on a 30-year initiative started at the University of Northern Iowa to help communities and organizations ensure safe, high-quality
playgrounds. It promotes best practices grounded in research, guidelines and standards while collaborating with agencies at the local, state, national and international levels.
Equally important is age-appropriate design. When younger children use equipment meant for older users, the risk of falls and misuse increases. Clear guidance and thoughtful layout can help families make safer choices without limiting exploration.
Communities must also prioritize proper surfacing and regular inspections, particularly in early spring. What lies beneath a child’s feet can determine whether a fall results in a minor scrape or a serious injury.
Safety extends further still. Accessibility ensures that all children can benefit from outdoor play, while attention to thermal comfort — such as shaded areas and heat-safe materials — helps protect children from high temperatures.
National Playground Safety Week offers a timely reminder, but it should also serve as a starting point. The original purpose of playgrounds — to give children a safe place to grow, learn and play — demands ongoing attention.
A quick inspection, a watchful eye and a renewed awareness can go a long way. With thoughtful action at the start of the season, communities can ensure that playgrounds remain what they were always meant to be: spaces of safe discovery, not preventable harm.
as we welcome the arrival of spring, the Village of Lawrence finds itself at a moment of renewal, reflection and forward-thinking action. The changing of seasons is more than a shift in weather; it’s an opportunity to assess where we stand as a community and to prepare thoughtfully for the months ahead. With that in mind, we are undertaking a series of important initiatives aimed at enhancing quality of life, improving infrastructure and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all who call Lawrence home.
This winter was particularly harsh, leaving its mark on our roads, public spaces and daily routines. Now our teams are hard at work addressing the wear and tear caused by months of freezing conditions. Road repairs are a top priority, and we are committed to restoring our streets to the highest standard possible. Smooth, well-maintained roads aren’t just a matter of convenience — they are essential to safety and the overall functionality of our village.
II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the library is mandated to provide equal access to its programs and services. A multi-month elevator outage that prevents patrons with mobility impairments from accessing the basement restrooms or upper-level programs is a clear violation of these federal requirements.
■ Limited restroom access: Forcing elderly and disabled patrons to navigate three levels without an elevator — especially when the only restrooms are in the basement — is not only an accessibility issue, but a serious health and safety concern.
■ Social isolation: Many seniors rely on the library for community engagement. The inability to access program rooms effectively bars them from participating in the very activities the library is meant to provide.
We value the Peninsula Public Library as a cornerstone of our community, and look forward to the board’s prompt action to ensure that it remains a place where all citizens, regardless of age or physical ability, are welcome.
In tandem with these repairs, we are continuing our beautification efforts. Spring offers the perfect backdrop for revitalizing public spaces, enhancing landscaping and ensuring that our village reflects the pride we all share in our community. Clean, attractive surroundings foster a sense of unity and contribute to the overall well-being of residents and visitors alike.
From roads to enhanced lighting to fighting greenhead flies, we’re on it.
Safety remains at the forefront of everything we do. To that end, we are actively evaluating and installing speed humps where they are most needed to promote safer driving. They are carefully considered and strategically placed to reduce speeding and protect pedestrians and cyclists throughout the village.
Additionally, we are expanding our lighting initiative, which has already proven to be a valuable investment in public safety. Well-lit streets deter unwanted activity and give residents a greater sense of security. Our goal is to continue broadening this program, ensuring that every corner of Lawrence benefits from improved visibility and enhanced safety measures.
Our efforts extend beyond infrastructure and safety. As longtime residents know, the arrival of warmer weather
also brings the return of greenhead flies, particularly in late June and early July. These pests can significantly impact outdoor enjoyment, and we are committed to mitigating their presence as effectively as possible. The village will continue to build and deploy additional traps, along with implementing safe and environmentally responsible measures to reduce their population.
We are excited about developments at the Lawrence Yacht and Country Club. This treasured local asset has long been a gathering place for residents and families, and we are working to ensure that it reaches its full potential.
Through our partnership with Troon, a recognized leader in club management, we are introducing new ideas, enhancements and opportunities that will benefit members and the broader community. There is much to look forward to, and we’re confident that these improvements will further elevate the club as a premier destination in the village.
At the same time, we recognize that meeting the evolving needs of our community requires innovation and adaptability. That’s why we’re embarking on a comprehensive village-wide initiative to enhance public safety through technology. That includes the installation of
Framework by Tim Baker
several hundred cameras, including license plate readers, which will be deployed on an integrated network powered by fast, cutting-edge technology and made accessible to law enforcement. We’re proud to be among the first villages in Nassau county to use such a system. These tools will serve as a critical resource in preventing and responding to incidents, helping to keep our community safe.
Our collaboration with the Nassau County Police Department, particularly the 4th Precinct, remains a cornerstone of our public safety strategy. Its officers’ professionalism and dedication are invaluable, and we will continue to work closely with them to ensure the highest level of protection for our residents.
As we move forward into a new season, it’s important to remember that progress is a continuous process. The needs of our community will continue to change, and we must be prepared to adapt to meet them. Our commitment is not only to maintain what we have built, but to improve on it with each passing year.
We must always stay relevant, since stagnation can lead to a lack of innovation. Our doors are always open, and we welcome your feedback as we work together to find new ways to strengthen and enhance our community.
Samuel Nahmias is the mayor of Lawrence.
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19-20 Brookhaven Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691
For more information, visit ehs.org/oncology or call:
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