Nassau Herald 07-24-2025

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a letter sent to families on July 16, Lawrence Woodmere Academy announced that it would not reopen for the 202526 school year due to financial constraints.

LWA pauses operations for 2025-26

Lawrence Woodmere Academy, a school with a history that dates to the late 19th century, is not reopening for the 2025-26 school year. The private school in Woodmere announced the decision in a letter sent to school families on July 16.

“With a heavy heart, the Board of Directors has made the incredibly difficult decision not to open Lawrence Woodmere Academy for the 2025-26 academic year,” the letter stated. “We want to be clear: this is a pause, not a closure. The Board will spend the coming year exploring what a truly sustainable future could look like.”

The school faced a challenging financial situation in which revenue fell short

Hewlett High School undergoes major upgrades

When students return to Hewlett High School in September, they’ll notice major upgrades inside and outside the building. The school has undergone a series of renovations that have reinvigorated some of its facilities.

Several science classrooms have been reconfigured to improve sound, sight lines and the interaction of students and teachers. Desks were previously set up in long, front-to-back rows, but the rooms now feature shorter, horizontal rows of desks, with teachers’ desks

repositioned as well.

District Superintendent Dina Anzalone said that the improvements would help students see the lessons and hear the teachers more clearly.

The updated classrooms also include new furniture and modernized safety equipment, such as eye wash stations and safety showers, as well as additional cabinet space.

Anzalone said that all of the projects included input from multiple stakeholders in the district including athletics and co-curricular committees, Board of Education members, administrators, teachers, coaches, athletes, community

groups, music staff, students and PTA members, who have devoted their time to ensuring that students have the best equipment and learning spaces.

“(This technology) is the future,” she said. “We are trying to help students figure out who they want to be when they grow up. Whether that means going off to vocational school or going off to college and university, we want to equip them with the tools they need here to be successful and make those informed decisions about pursuing their passions beyond the walls of Hewlett High School.”

The high school auditorium was also renovated, and now

has improved acoustics and a newly built mezzanine, which houses the sound and light systems and increased seating by 150. The auditorium was repainted, and new flooring was installed on stage. The renovations, which began under the watch of former Superintendent Ralph Marino Jr. in June 2024, are expected to be

finished by the start of the school year.

“Our auditorium was over 30 years old, and it needed to be updated to today’s times,” Andrew Fund, the districts director of art and music, said. “It is all electronic controlled. It is safer, the acoustics can be controlled, it’s better for music,

Melissa Berman/Herald
In

Local Families Discover Big Savings on Energy-Efficient Heat Pumps

From installation to incentive submission, DLP Budget Appliances helps homeowners save without the hassle

ManyLongIslandresidentsarenow significantlyreducingtheirenergybills thankstoanewincentiveprogram promotinghigh-efficiencyheatpumps. Localcompany DLPBudgetAppliances has beenhelpinghomeownersinstallmulti-zone systemsandsecureavailablerebates,making theswitchtocleanenergymoreaffordable thanever.Foralimitedtime,theyare offering special pricing on installations:

• 9,000 BTU Heat Pump – $999 Installed

• 12,000 BTU Heat Pump – $1,099 Installed (15ft of piping & wiring included)

Major Brands, Low Prices

One outdoor unit, multiple indoor options — wall-mounted, floor-mounted, slim duct, or ceiling cassette.

Local deals beat big-box stores by up to 60%

A new discount appliance outlet DLP Budget Appliances has recently opened near JFK Airport, drawing attention from budget-savvy shoppers across Long Island and Queens. The store features a wide selection of major brands, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and ranges, all offered at 50–60% off regular retail prices. Many local residents say the timing couldn’t be better. “We’ve been waiting to replace our old appliances, and this store made it finally affordable,”one shopper

Inventory changes daily, and customers are encouraged to shop early for the best selection.

St. John’s Episcopal Hospital births new maternity unit

State-of-the-art labor and delivery suite debuts, in Far Rockaway medical facility

A new bundle of joy has entered the Rockaway Peninsula, with a state-ofthe-art maternity unit at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, in Far Rockaway.

The unit is expected to officially open on Aug. 18 with a ribbon cutting on July 31. Formerly the hospitals wound care unit, the “labor and delivery suite” is housed on the ninth floor.

Being with Episcopal Health Services that runs the hospital for nearly 13 years, CEO Donald T. Morrish, an obstetrician by trade, knew that there needed to be better infrastructure and to keep maternity care on the Peninsula.

“Nearly 13 years of work and coming in to see such beautiful furnishings really hit home with me,” Morrish said.

The state-of-the-art facility will prioritize patient comfort and safety throughout the childbirth process. It will feature six labor, delivery, recovery and post-partum rooms, each equipped with a private shower.

“This design allows patients to spend their entire hospital stay in a single room, providing enhanced comfort, privacy and continuing of care throughout their birthing experience,” said Dr. Jacqueline Marecheau, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The unit will also include two Caesarean operating room suites, two recovery rooms and four triage rooms. The hospital intends to provide superior care for high-risk pregnancies, and specialized services for mothers and infants who need additional attention and support.

Morrish said that they took into consideration what the patients want, including any amenities they may have at home.

“When they have such a big life event, when they come to EHS, they know it’s going to continue here,” he said. “We knew exactly what they wanted.”

St. John’s has implemented a doula program, to provide educational support and to reduce maternal and infant mortality, as well as a centering program, which offers holistic maternal and infant health education, with the benefits of lowering the rate of pre-term births and low-weight babies.

He said that this is a “dream come true” and he can’t believe this came to fruition.

“It cost a tremendous amount of money, lots of man power hours and the team coming together and pushing it over the finish line is a real testimony for the 3,000 employees in the institution to come together,” Morrish added.

Every year, the hospital gives the family of the first baby born in the New Year a package of essential baby care items, and there will be a plethora of gifts and swag bags given to the first babies born on this unit.

“You don’t just go home with the best gift of your life, you go back with little EHS swag along with a good experience

and a high-quality of care,” Morrish said.

Marecheau described the birthing suites as a “serenity like space” and is a “sanctuary to the woman in this community.”

“Each room can accommodate up to three babies, not to mention the views that it’s all encompassing,” she said. “But most of all, it’s family centered and the size of the room lends to that.”

All of the equipment is housed in the room, transitioning from labor and delivery to recovery and post-partum assistance.

The floor has no limit to how many women can give birth but if they need more space, the original maternity unit on floor seven will serve as overflow.

“We can labor an inordinate amount, but should that capacity exceed we have that option to use our overflow unit on the seventh floor,” she added.

She noted that their current workflow is laboring in the room and delivering in the operating room.

“We are able to do not that and labor people in the room and only utilize the operating rooms for what they’re designed for,” she added. “The family centeredness of this space is what’s most notable about this.”

Karen Paige, executive vice president and COO, worked hands-on during the construction process of the unit.

“I have the privilege of working alongside our facilities, the construction and design teams and everything from the planning to the construction to the design execution of the site,” Paige said. “I believe this unit represents to the community EHS’s commitment to providing best in class maternal care to the Peninsula and the surrounding towns.”

“I

the

get the care they need without going elsewhere.

The goal is to ensure that pregnant women on the Rockaway Peninsula can
know
community deserves a facility like this and I am so proud to be apart of the ‘delivery’ of this unit,” she added.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Karen Paige, EHS executive vice president and COO, left, Dr. Jacqueline Marecheau, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CEO Donald T. Morrish in the new labor and delivery suite at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, in Far Rockaway.
The state-of-the-art birthing suite in the maternity unit at St. John’s Hospital.
One of the two Cesarean operating rooms suites, in the maternity unit available for the medical procedure.

In

Protecting Your Future

Elder Law

Estate Planning There’s More Misinformation than Information

Recently, we came across an article by a syndicated columnist that claimed that if you put your house into an irrevocable trust you lose your exclusion from the capital gains tax on the sale of the primary residence — $500,000 for a couple and $250,000 for a single person. The writer, being a financial planner and not a trust and estates lawyer, and despite claiming to be an “expert”, was apparently unaware that there are many different types of irrevocable trusts. One of the most common irrevocable trusts, the Medicaid Asset Protect Trust (MAPT), is designed to preserve these exclusions. MAPT’s are “grantor trusts” which mean they remain in the grantor’s name for all income and capital gains tax purposes.

This leads into a very common problem. Too often, clients receive advice on trusts from financial advisors, accountants and family lawyers, believing they are getting a professional opinion. We say that what they are actually getting is a personal opinion coming out of a professional’s mouth.

We often make the analogy that if, unfortunately, you have cancer then you want to

get advice from an oncologist, not your family doctor. If you have an elder law estate planning problem, you want to talk to an elder law estate planning attorney, not your general lawyer, financial advisor or accountant. Well-meaning professionals often give incorrect information.

Here are the most common myths about the MAPT:

• Myth: You can’t sell the house - Reality: We have done it thousands of times. The money is paid to the trust and remains protected. The trust can purchase another house, a condominium or simply invest the money and pay you the income.

• Myth: You can’t change the trust - Reality: You may change the trustees, or who you are leaving it to, at any time.

• Myth: You can’t take money out of the trust

- Reality: You get all the income (interest and dividends) and you may gift virtually any amount tax-free to your children.

• Myth: You cannot undo the trust - Reality: In New York you may revoke an irrevocable trust on the consent of all named parties. If one will not sign, we have a workaround.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Chabad Shabbat candle stick making gathering in Hewlett

Pauline Beylik, Hewlett resident, hosted a gathering where 20 women of the Chabad of Hewlett gathered to promote the beauty and significance of Shabbat candle lighting, on July 7.

Centered on the creation of pressed flower candles, the event invited women to engage in a hands-on experience that blended artistry with spirituality.

Beylik’s backyard teemed with blooming flowers, delicate vines, and ambient charm. The setting itself became part of the message that Shabbat is not only a time for ritual, but for reflection and beauty.

Attendees were surrounded by nature’s splendor as they carefully

pressed petals into wax, each candle becoming a personal tribute to light, tradition, and community. The experience sparked conversations about creating sacred space in everyday life, and the role those small but intentional acts can play in deepening one’s connection to Shabbat.

“I really enjoy all the Chabad events, but I was thinking about Shabbat and lighting Shabbat candles brings a lot of warmth and goodness to the home,” Beylik said. “ It’s such a beautiful tradition that it’s something that I really enjoy doing.”

— Melissa Berman
Courtesy Chabad of Hewlett
Women in the Chabad of Hewlett made hand-flower pressed Shabbat candlesticks at Pauline Beylik’s house, on July 7.

Gural JCC hosts first-ever community yard sale

The Marion & Aaron Gural JCC hosted its first-ever community yard sale, “Clutter for a Cause.” The July 22 event brought in local residents to either shop for or sell any household items or clothing they’ve been looking to part with.

Tables cost $25, giving participants the chance to declutter while supporting the Rina Shkolnik Kosher Food Pantry in Cedarhurst that the JCC runs. The pantry operates in a supermarket-style format, offering both perishable and non-perishable food as well as cleaning supplies and personal care items.

Erica Brown, the adult engagement coordinator for the JCC, said the idea came from conversations she had with residents.

“I think it is really important for people to be able to get out and engage and meet other friends,” Brown said. “The older (people) can engage with the younger (people) for a lot of these events, so this way a parent can engage with their child or a grandparent can engage with their child and it just gets them out of the house for a fun thing and they can socialize and I think a lot of people are looking for some more socialization.”

Known as the Sustenance Hope Opportunities Place — the S.H.O.P. — also includes a clothing pantry with new and gently used garments for the

entire family, assistance with entitlement programs, a computer center for job searches, resume writing and skills training, one-on-one counseling, and referrals to community services.

Diana Zelmanovich, the project coordinator for Clutter for a Cause, said the declutter event would help prepare the pantry to hopefully acquire enough items for the fall Jewish holidays that include the High Holidays of Rosh

Hashana and Yom Kippur.

“This is to benefit the S.H.O.P our kosher food pantry,” Zelmanovich said.

“We are looking to raise money getting ready for Rosh Hashana to stock the shelves, unfortunately there are a lot of families in need who rely on the kosher food that we provide them, so we are trying to raise funds.”

Stacy Feldman, the Gural JCC’s executive director, added that this event is

something that they have had in the works for a long-time and she is excited to see it come to fruition.

“We care about the environment and making sure things get recycled,” Feldman said. “Someone’s unloved items might be someone’s treasure so we want to make sure we give people the opportunity to recycle wonderful usable goods that somebody might really appreciate.”

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Courtesy Stacey Feldman
Gural JCC’s Volunteer Services Manager Laurie Brofsky, left, and Executive Director Stacey Feldman are two of the organizers for the JCC’s Clutter for a Cause and have held several events to support the food pantry.

Dancers from the Donny Golden School of Irish Dancing, in Brooklyn performed at ’Irish Night’ at Cedarhurst Park, on July 15.

‘Irish Night’ shines in Cedarhurst

The 2025 Cedarhurst village Summer Concert Series continued in full swing with an Irish-themed celebration that combined local talent with international style.

Part of a larger concert series that brings free weekly performances to Cedarhurst Park, the evening featured music, dance, and appearances by longtime performers and local leaders.

On July 15, the show opened with a pre-show at 7 p.m. featuring the Lawrence High School orchestra, whose performance included a mix of classical and pop hits such as “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay.

Cedarhurst Mayor Benjamin Weinstock then took the stage to reflect on the concert series’ 25-year legacy and his 10 years as mayor working alongside Deputy Mayor and Assemblyman Ari Brown and fellow trustees Myrna Zisman, Israel Wasser and Daniel Plaut.

“This whole idea started about 30 years ago,” Weinstock said. “I was driving through Garden City and saw a little gazebo with a guy playing guitar for 10 people. It looked like a Norman Rockwell painting.”

The concert series has grown immensely since it began, drawing between 400 to 500 attendees on smaller nights and up to 5,000 later in the summer, especially during the popular Jewish-themed concerts.

While Irish Night is traditionally more intimate, this year due to the “three weeks” (a Jewish period of mourning concluded by the nine days and Tisha Bav fast day), it felt smaller than past years.

It’s really about getting together with people,” he said. “It develops a sense of neighborhood camaraderie.”

Weinstock also recognized and awarded key sponsors, Frank B. Lewis Attorney at Law, Horizon Counseling Ancient Order of Hibernians, and Lenore S. Davis, Trust & Estate Medicaid Attorney for their ongoing support.

“Our sponsors make this possible so the village doesn’t have to spend much,” Weinstock added. “But what goes into this is a lot more than meets the eye.”

He explained that months of planning since February, coordination with Homeland Security, local fire departments, volunteer ambulance corps Attala of the Rockaways & Nassau County, and the police department are necessary to ensure safety for all.

Woodmere resident Marsha Bellehsen, a longtime attendee, said the concerts have become a “summer tradition for her family.”

“I’ve been coming for years with my kids,” Bellehsen said. “It’s nice to have something wholesome and fun right here in the neighborhood.”

The main act, Andy Cooney and His Band, took the gazebo stage, playing original and traditional Irish songs and fan favorites including “Sweet Caroline.”

Halfway through the performance, dancers from ages seven to 19 from the Donny Golden School of Irish Dancing, in Brooklyn delivered a high-spirited and talented performance leaving the crowd cheering.

Cooney, who has performed in Cedarhurst on and off for nearly 30 years, praised the event and the mayor’s leadership.

“I think we have a great mayor, and he’s kept this program going all these years,” he said. “It’s so important for all the nationalities in this diverse community. Irish music is happy music, and we try to play for everybody.”

Known for his collaborations with major artists such as Crystal Gayle and the Irish Tenors, Cooney noted that performing in small towns like Cedarhurst means as much to him as large venues.

“There’s not a gig I haven’t done,” he laughed.

The Cedarhurst Summer Concert Series continues every Tuesday night through August, with pre-shows at 7 p.m. and concerts an hour later. For more information and updates, visit Cedarhurst.gov.

L-W Academy will not open in September

of operating expenses, the letter explained. “Opening in September without a firm financial footing would have left us facing the possibility of not being able to finish the school year,” it read. “We could not risk putting children and families through that disruption. For that reason, we made the painful but responsible decision to pause operations for the coming year.”

According to the school’s board of directors, they waited as long as possible to make the decision, with the hope that a “late-breaking funding deal” could be finalized.

“In fact, we were engaged in one promising funding conversation just hours before the announcement, but when that deal did not come to fruition it became clear that we could not proceed confidently,” board members wrote in an email to the Herald.

LWA’s goal now is to reopen in the near future while building a solid financial foundation, the email added.

“Over the coming year, we will evaluate finances, consider restructuring, meet with potential partners, and reimagine a school model that is sustainable, relevant, and viable,” the board wrote. “This pause will allow the Board the time and space to make strategic choices about how best to serve the Five Towns community in a changing educa-

tional landscape.”

As a pillar of the Five Towns, with a long list of distinguished alumni, LWA aims to continue to “serve the educational needs of the community and surrounding areas for generations to come.”

The school became Lawrence Woodmere Academy in 1990 after a merger between Lawrence Country Day School, which was founded in 1891, and the Woodmere Academy, which was established in 1912.

“We know this decision is deeply felt, not just by our students and families, but also by the broader Five Towns community,” the board wrote. “LWA has been part of this community for over 100 years, and we recognize the weight of this moment.”

Lwas able to teach them in my A.P. geography class.”

Ellis’s favorite part about teaching at LWA for two years, he said, was the sense of community and family. “We were able to have the high school students help the middle school students, and the middle school students help with the lower school students, and really be one family,” he said.

WA has been part of this community for over 100 years, and we recognize the weight of this moment.

Justin Ellis, a social studies teacher at LWA and a Woodmere resident, said that LWA was a unique school where he could provide students with tailored instruction.

“I would like to think a good education you weren’t going to get at other schools,” Ellis said. “We had kids from around the world. I was blessed that I

OBITUARY

Joseph E. Cestari

Ellis added that the school always tried to make the community a better place, and taught students how to prepare for the world. “I would like to think we taught them how to be better people, and learn to live with everybody and truly embrace our diverse world,” he said.

In a Facebook post, Brandeis Hebrew Academy posted about its love for LWA and its place in the Five Towns.

“For so many years, LWA has been more than just a school, it has been a pillar of strength, tradition, and love within our community,” Brandeis Hebrew Academy officials wrote. “We know firsthand the challenges that small schools face in a world that is con-

February 20, 1940 – May 6, 2025

stantly shifting, and we want to honor the dedication, heart, and tireless work that so many educators, lay leaders, staff, and families poured into keeping LWA’s mission alive.”

Brandeis, whose oldest students are in eighth grade, noted that many of its graduates continued their education at LWA, which helped shape them into the people they are today.

“Over the years, many of our own Brandeis graduates continued their journey at LWA, and they didn’t just attend, they thrived,” Brandeis officials wrote. “We’ve watched them grow into confident, compassionate young adults, and for that, we are deeply grateful to LWA for being such an important part of their stories.”

The LWA board of directors wrote that it was proud of the school’s long and storied history, spanning 134 years, and still hopes to shape the school’s future.

“We remain deeply grateful to the families, faculty, alumni, and partners who have stood by LWA through this difficult time,” the email stated. “We invite those who care about LWA’s mission to collaborate with us as we work toward a renewed future.”

Have an opinion about Lawrence Woodmere Academy taking this pause? Send a letter to mberman@liherald.com.

Joseph E. Cestari, beloved husband, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, in Jupiter, Florida. He was 85 years old.

Born on February 20, 1940, in Far Rockaway, New York, Joe was the cherished son of the late Agesilao and Filomena Cestari. A graduate of St. John’s University, he dedicated his professional life to serving his community as the owner and pharmacist of Cestari’s Pharmacy in Inwood, New York.

Joe lived a life of service and invention. He was a proud volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department, where he was affectionately known as “Doc.” After relocating to Florida, he continued his commitment to public service as a volunteer police officer and member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Jupiter.

A true tinkerer and creative spirit, Joe was a garage inventor whose creations included a colorless iodine cream, Velcro shoes, and early versions of noise-canceling headphones. His love of discovery was matched only by his deep love for his family and community.

Joe was a devoted fan of Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, and country music. He found joy in good Italian food and pastries and always carried a warmth and humor that endeared him to all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Lois Cestari; his sister, Lois Capobianco; his children: Joe and his wife Beth, Donna Schroeder and her husband David, Gio, and Jodi; nieces: Nikki and wife Dawn, Gina and husband Doug; his grandchildren: Nicholas and his wife Andrea, Caitlyn, Zach, Taylor, Maxine, Jack, Charlie, and Jagger; and his great-grandchildren: Jade and Sophia.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and innovation. He will be remembered always with love, admiration, and gratitude. For memorial contributions please consider supporting the Alzheimer’s Foundation Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Lawrence-Cedarhurst Volunteer Fire Department Donate — Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department.

with state law by NOT seeking approval from the Nassau County Planning Commission to reverse the Transit Oriented Development Zoning in Inwood and North Lawrence.

neighbors

Annual Santa Marina Feast in Inwood

An over 100-year-old tradition returned to Inwood to celebrate faith, culture and community, on July 11 and 12.

The Santa Marina Feast is a multi-day celebration organized by Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, in Inwood, along with the Santa Marina Society. The society is a religious organization established by Italian immigrants from Filandari, a small town in the Calabria region of Italy.

The feast honors Santa Marina, or Saint Marina Vergine, Filandari’s patron saint, twoday event featured attractions, games, live music, food and drinks for the hundreds of residents in attendance.

On the second day of the feast, residents gathered at the church to honor the patron saint with a morning Mass, afterwards there was a procession, where members of the society carried a statue of the saint through the streets of Inwood.

“So this is something where the whole community, the Spanish community, the Italian community, the Catholic community, where we could come together and celebrate outside,” Francesca Cimato, society

said.

member
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Hundreds of residents celebrated the annual Santa Marina Feast in Inwood, on July 11 and 12.
Luis Rios sold fresh made zeppoles and funnel cakes, a festival fan favorite.
Cousins from Inwood Yohandry Velasquez, 8, left and Christopher Gonsalez 8 rode the teacups at the festival.
Pasquale Curra, back left, Maria Vitale, Elizabeth Gonzalez, Marina Perna, front left and Domenica Vitale manned the raffle table.
Angelo Venuto, left, and Lisa Messina singing “Vivo per Lei” and entertaining the feast attendees.

Mount Sinai South Nassau is Improving Health Care on the South Shore

The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.

The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.

To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion

Renovations aimed to enhance student experience

and it is better equipped for the 21st century.”

Anzalone added that the developers of the project, SCC Construction Management of Hauppauge and architect John A Grillo Design, said that this will make Hewlett High School “the most high-tech auditorium in Long Island” when the work is completed.

e are trying to help students figure out who they want to be when they grow up.

Dina anzalone Superintendent, Hewlett-Woodmere schools

Elsewhere, a new floor in the gym will allow the volleyball court to be repositioned at the center of the space, and enable the use of bleachers on both sides during matches, school officials said.

David Viegas, the district’s director of health, physical education and athletics, noted that the changes will make the school a more viable host of regional competitions.

“Now not only can we pack the (bleachers) on the home side, but the visitors’ side as well,” Viegas said. “If

we ever wanted to host the (volleyball) county championship, now we could do that.”

The school’s tennis courts are being redone as well. The five courts will be renovated and repainted to feature the blue and green used at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens. The work is projected to be completed and ready for use by the school’s tennis teams and the communi-

ty when students return in September.

A concession stand for all sporting events is being built near the football field’s bleachers. The stand, and new lights behind the fields bleachers, in front of the gym and pool entrance, will be under construction until late fall, school officials said.150115

A total of just under $6.2 million will be spent on the auditorium; the science labs will cost just over $5.3 million, and

The

underwent major renovations, including new audio and lighting equipment, new floors, seating and a new mezzanine.

reconstruction of the tennis courts with lighting and the concession stand will cost $3.9 million. Funding came from several sources, including capital reserves and annual transfers to capital. Because reserves are being used, there will be no additional cost to taxpayers.

Have an opinion on the Hewlett High School renovations? Send a letter to mberman@liherald.com.

Brian Norman/Herald photos
Hewlett High School auditorium
The tennis courts are being redone, with a new concession stand and outdoor seating on the way.

Hear Better… Live Better!

Kiwanis members at the Inwood Country Club for last year’s golf outing. This year’s event is on July 28.

Nicole Eliopoulos to be honored at Kiwanis golf outing

The Kiwanis Club of the Five Towns annual golf outing is returning for its 52nd year and will take place at the Inwood Country Club on July 28.

The outing is the club’s largest fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds going to the Kiwanis Foundation to fund student scholarships. The event is now dedicated to Bernie Schwartz, a longtime Kiwanis member who died in 2022.

Yolanda Robano-Gross, president of the Kiwanis Club, said that this event continues to resonate well with the residents.

“We have a lot of golfers in our area,” Robano-Gross said. “It is a fun day out, it’s a time to be with people you like, take a day for yourself and on top of that know that you are giving back to the community and doing something for a good cause.”

Each year, the outing honors a community member who has made a meaningful impact through public service. This year’s honoree is Nicole Eliopoulos, an active member of both the Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association and the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce.

Eliopoulos said she admires the club’s work and was grateful for the recognition.

“I was shocked,” Eliopoulos said. “I did not think that the Kiwanis would

honor me, I was very proud. I know what great work they do, I am so happy with all the scholarships they give out, they really look to stuff that is for the kids and they give back a lot too, so this honor was really humbling for me.”

The outing is a full-day affair, starting with breakfast and check-in at 10 a.m., followed by a putting contest. The main rounds of golf will run from noon to 5 p.m.

After the golf tournament, a dinner and awards ceremony, complete with raffles, will take place, including for people who didn’t play golf.

Established in 1944, the Kiwanis Club of the Five Towns has been an active community service organization, helping to support college students, hospitalized children, police officers and breast cancer survivors.

Keith Colton, the Kiwanis treasurer and golf committee member, said the event raises over $20,000 for the organization and that the communities’ support makes it possible.

“This is the premiere event that we do,” Colton said. “We get a lot of support from the community which is crucial, we wouldn’t be able to do this without it. It’s a great event, it’s a social event and people who may not be aware of Kiwanis get to come out and experience (Kiwanis).”

For questions or to register for the golf outing, contact Robano-Gross at (631) 316-1726.

Courtesy Yolanda Robano-Gross

News briefs

Observing World Drowning Prevention Day in AB

Lifeguards in Atlantic Beach will be extra vigilant and speaking with residents about water safety and drowning prevention for World Drowning Prevention Day.

Established in April 2021, it is observed annually on July 25th. An estimated 236,000 people drown every year, making drowning the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, accounting for 7% of all injuryrelated deaths.

This day emphasizes water safety education, swimming instruction, and prevention strategies.

Communities worldwide organize events promoting lifeguard training, pool safety measures, and public awareness campaigns.

The initiative particularly focuses on protecting children and vulnerable pop-

safety infrastructure and emergency response systems to reduce drowning fatalities globally.

The World Health Organization promotes key prevention measures:

• Barriers: Installing barriers in public areas to prevent easy access to water hazards

• Supervision: Ensuring lifeguards are present at public swimming pools and beaches

• Training: Providing communities with rescue and resuscitation training

• Response: Maintaining active and effective search and rescue capabilities

The slogan for World Drowning Prevention Day states, “Anyone can drown, no one should.”

Sephardic Chief Rabbi visits the Ohel

Rabbi Zalman Wolowik, director of Chabad of the Five Towns escorted Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef to spend time praying at the Ohel, on July 16.

The Ohel is where Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson and his father-in-law Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, the two most recent rebbes of the ChabadLubavitch dynasty are buried.

Prior to going into the Ohel, the Rabbi’s had a lengthy conversation about their deep respect and admiration for the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s vast knowledge in all aspects of Torah, and the clarity that the Lubavitcher Rebbe gives to every aspect of Torah, and also how it relates to every detail in life.

When asked by a visitor if it was the Chief Rabbi’s first time to the Ohel, he responded that whenever he is in the United States, he makes it a point to come and pray at the Ohel.

Yosef emphasized his tremendous appreciation for the fact that the Rebbe was concerned about every Jew in the world, to make sure that they do not get lost or assimilated, and for that he established Chabad centers all over the world.

For the Chief Rabbi, coming to the holy resting place of the Grand Rebbe is a tremendous “honor and opportunity”.

As they were walking out from the Ohel, they visited the grave of Rabbi Wolowik’s father-in-law Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, who was the chairman of the Conference of Chabad Emissaries.

Rebbe and as a result, he was the extended arm of the Rebbe to establish Chabad centers throughout the whole world.

“This is, no doubt, the best way to prepare the world for the ultimate redemption with the coming of the righteous Moshiach,” Yosef said.

Yosef praised Rabbi Kotlarsky’s selfless dedication to the mission of the

Melissa Berman

Courtesy Brendan Dempsey
The Village of Atlantic Beach’s lifeguard crew will be addressing resident with information about World Drowning Prevention Day, on July 25.
Courtesy Rabbi Zalman Wolowik Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, middle, visited the Ohel to pray at the Gran Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson’s grave, on July 16.

STEPPING OUT Forever ‘Wild about Harry’

The beat goes on in the annual tribute to the beloved musician

Decades have passed since Harry Chapin’s tragic death, still his music and philanthropic initiatives remain at the heart of Long Island’s collective consciousness. Stuart Markus, the longtime mainstay of the local folk and acoustic scene, is committed to guardianship of the Chapin legacy, organizing what are now two memorial concerts each year.

Markus, based in Malverne, is clearly as fervent about Chapin’s music and humanitarian zeal as when he took on the role of organizing the tribute 22 years ago. From its start at Hall’s Pond Park in West Hempstead in 2004 to what became its longtime home at Chapin’s namesake theater in Eisenhower Park, and now in its second year at the Chapin Rainbow Stage at Huntington’s Heckscher Park, the concert’s appeal continues to grow. So much so that a second show has been added — at the Landmark theater in Port Washington on Dec. 2.

“Sunday Morning Sunshine.”

Meanwhile over 30 musicians will gather with fans, on Sunday, to share in the joy of the man and his music.

“Sometimes it’s hard to believe I’m still at this,” he reflects. “[After the first concert] I thought it would be cool to do this for a couple of years. Ultimately it became a cultural phenomenon.”

Folks livestream the event around the world, according Markus, who relates an unexpected email he received from a fan in Scotland.

“He wanted to plan a vacation around the concert, Markus says, chuckling, about the international response. “As long as there is enthusiasm, then I’ll keep doing it.”

Certainly that fervor shows no signs of waning.

“I’ve long thought it would be wonderful and extremely appropriate to do the show in Huntington, where Harry and Sandy lived and raised their family,” Markus says. “Harry is still held in such beloved regard by residents and public officials at all levels.”

Chapin’s shocking death on the Long Island Expressway en route to that ill-fated Eisenhower Park performance in July 1981 is very much rooted this tribute — for performers and the audience. In fact, several show regulars were among the crowd when what was supposed to be a joyous event turned into a vigil, according to Markus.

“Harry is so beloved in memory on Long Island,” Markus says. “You don’t have to look too hard to find someone who met him, whose school he did a benefit for, or someone who’s been helped by one of his charities. It’s so meaningful for the music community to come together and, in effect, do the concert he might have given.”

The troubadour’s catalogue always gets a creative interpretation by each act.

“I’ve always encouraged everyne to make the songs fresh and treat them as their own, however they imagine them. They’re not just reproducing them the way Harry did.”

Markus excited to include guitarist Gerald Bair, a longstanding member of Huntington’s folk scene, in this year’s lineup. Bair performs his rendition of

“A fan favorite, it’s an optimistic happy song about being in love,” Markus says.

Cantor Lisa Wharton, of Temple Beth Emeth in Mount Sinai, who performs with her husband Akiva Wharton, a percussionist, and Cantor Judy Merrick, of Plainview Jewish Center, return for their second appearance. They’ll do “I Wonder What Would Happen,” which Markus describes as an appropriately chosen “spiritual, gospel-feeling song.”

“They were a well-received addition last year and we’re glad to have them back, he adds.

The trio is, of course, joined by staples of the area’s music community. Returnees include Judith Zweiman, Martha Trachtenberg, Karen Bella, Roger Silverberg, Debra Lynne, Patricia Shih and Stephen Fricker, Roger Street Friedman, Media Crime, Christine Solimeno, Grand Folk Railroad, Robinson Treacher, Wonderous Stories, Toby Tobias, Mara Levine and Matthew Ponsot, in various ensembles.

As is their signature, Markus, with his trio Gathering Time, arrive on stage as the show nears its conclusion. Markus, with Christine Sweeney and Gerry McKeveny, perform their annual rendition of the iconic “Cat’s in the Cradle.” By then everyone is singing along.

Finally, as always, in the true spirit of Harry Chapin, all the musicians join together on stage for “Circle,” Chapin’s traditional closing.

“It’s such a philosophical but uplifting song and a fitting end,” Markus adds.

Just the way Chapin would want it.

More than just a concert, the free event, of course, involves a food drive. Concertgoers are asked to bring donations of nonperishable items to support Long Island Cares, the regional food bank and humanitarian organization founded by Chapin in 1980. Long Island Cares’ staff and volunteers will collect donations at a tent near the entrance to the stage.

Bring seating to the show, which is held rain or shine. It will also be livestreamed on Facebook and the Harry Chapin Foundation YouTube channel.

Magical Mystery Doors

If you missed Magical Mystery Doors during the band’s spring visit to Long Island, now’s your chance to check out this unique tribute act. The tight bandmates blend and layer the music to create something new and unique. The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors changed the face of music as we know it. Their melodies have moved people everywhere to “Come Together” in their love of music. And that’s what happens at an MMD concert. Throughout the concert, the band combines some of these classic tunes in ways that surprise and delight time and time again. The melody from The Doors’ “Hello, I Love You” laying atop Led Zeppelin’s “Misty Mountain Hop.” The pounding beat of Zep’s “When The Levee Breaks” coupled with the serene strumming of The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence.” Also the thematic sequence of “The Rain Song” – “Riders On The Storm” – “Here Comes The Sun.” These arrangements take you on an unexpected and exhilarating journey. Friday, July 25, 8 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or call (516) 323-4444.

Best of Broadway

Sounds of the Great White Way return to Eisenhower Park with Neil Berg’s “100 Years of Broadway.” Back for its annual celebration of the greatest songs from the finest shows, the acclaimed touring Broadway concert never disappoints. The lively musical revue, hosted by Neil Berg, on piano, brings performers to light up the stage with songs from the hit shows in which they starred. He presents creatively revived arrangements of Broadway classics as well as thrilling numbers from some of the newest hits, along with his fascinating commentary and historical notes in between songs. This gorgeous, guided tour of the American art form that is musical theater, is a production both hypnotic and historical. The dazzling new edition is sure to have everyone humming along. Berg, an awardwinning composer-lyricist-producer, and his cast of vocal powerhouses brings everyone to their feet time and again.

Saturday, July 26, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny.gov for more.

24, 2025

• Sunday, July 27, 8 p.m.
• Admission is free
• Heckscher Park, located off Main Street (Route 25A) and Prime Avenue, Huntington
Photos courtesy Keith Rossin
Everyone gathers to salute Harry Chapin during the rousing finale that closes the concert.
Cantors Judy Merrick, left, Lisa Ann Wharton and Akiva Wharton are all in for Harry.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

JULY

‘Summer of Love’ Pet Adoption

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 1 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. This summer, spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to these shelter animals. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/ animal-shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.

•Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220

Open Mic Poetry

Literary folks are encouraged to participate in Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library’s first Open Mic Poetry Night. Bring your poems, prose, spoken word, lyrics, and songs up to the mic. All voices are welcome for a 15-minute set.

•Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: hwpl.org

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

AUG 3

Magic Rocks!

Family movie time

Come to North Woodmere Park for a showing of “The Lego Movie.” An ordinary LEGO construction worker, thought to be the prophesied as “special”, is recruited to join a quest to stop an evil tyrant from gluing the LEGO universe into eternal stasis.

•Where: 750 Hungry Harbor Road, Valley Stream

•Time: Movies start at dusk

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

JULY

30

Movie in the park

Enjoy a movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. Enjoy “Transformers One,” the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but who once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: Movie begins at dusk

Mindful Morning

View Nassau County Museum of Art’s galleries in a small group session. Take time to observe, question and reflect without hurry, distraction, or judgment. Explore one or two works of art in the galleries, with intention as you focus on color, texture, form and personal connections during the series of three sessions. Join for as many sessions as you like. Each will be a different opportunity to enjoy art together. Program is capped at 12 people. $20 per session, $10 members. Registration required.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

•Time: 10-11 a.m., also Aug. 8 and Aug. 22

•Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Tuneful notes

Dean Karahalis and the Concert

Pops visit Eisenhower Park for their popular annual summer concert. Their vivacious style appeals to all ages, drawing everyone into their performance with their intense energy and dynamic musicality. Hear a variety of rousing tunes, including the music of Broadway and Hollywood.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

JULY

26

Unbox A-Saurus

Dr. Patricia Osiris visits with young paleontologists from Long Island Children’s Museum’s “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed” gallery. She plans to unveil a never-before-seen dinosaur, if she can find a way to open its crate. Join her in the LICM Theater for this highly interactive show, when the audience will assist Dr. Patti in this “scientific” comedy. $5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also July 30

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

JULY

27

Music for Sunday Afternoon

The Cambiata Cello Duo, Suzanne Mueller and Paul Lawrence Finkelstein, close out the series with a program spanning centuries and styles. Bring a

•Time: 7 p.m.

Illusionist Leon Etienne has sold out venues all over the world with his blockbuster performances of Magic Rocks! Now he arrives on Long Island with his jaw-dropping, critically acclaimed hit show. You’ve seen him on “America’s Got Talent,” “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, “Masters of Illusion,” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us!” Hailed by critics as “America’s Rock Illusionist,” Leon is a worldwide hit with audiences, critics and producers. He’s recognized for his onstage charisma, a fast-paced, high energy, rock n’ roll performance style — and his no-nonsense approach to magic. This interactive, family-friendly spectacular showcases mind-blowing tricks, award-winning sleight of hand and non-stop laughter. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s an immersive experience filled with wonder, laughter and jaw-dropping moments you won’t soon forget. From Radio City Music Hall to Planet Hollywood Casino and from Studio City Casino in Macau to his very own theater on the beautiful island waters of Saipan, Etienne’s performance style attracts worldwide attention. Join in this unforgettable night of magic and you’ll see why. $71.75, $60.25, $49.25, $37.25, $31.25.

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

•Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

blanket or lawn chair, grab a spot and soak in the sounds and scenery at the lawn at The Barn. Concert is included with admission and reservations are not required.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: 3-4 p.m.

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

JULY

29

Mobile passport renewal van

Apply for or renew your passport at Peninsula Public Library. Appointments must be made in advance. To make your appointment, call the Town of Hempstead Passport Office.

•Where: 280 Central Ave.

•Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 812-3100

Summer sounds

The Cedarhurst Concert Series continues with A Night of Italian Music. Settle in for a relaxing evening of tunes.

•Where: 235 Cedarhurst Ave.

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 295-5570

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Painting with Eva Berger

Follow along step-by-step with artist Eva Berger to create a beautiful acrylic painting you will take home that day at HewlettWoodmere Public Library. All supplies provided.

•Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

•Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

•Contact: hwpl.org

Breakfast Connect

Want to network your business? Attend the Breakfast Connect group’s get-together. The breakfast meeting is free and open to everyone.

•Where: Hewlett Firehouse, 25 Franklin Ave., Hewlett

•Time: Ongoing Wednesdays, 8-9 a.m.

•Contact: Call or text Andrew Leibowitz at (516) 790-4829

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.

One lucky member of the audience will WIN 4 TICKETS to watch Long Island Ducks vs Hagerstown Flying Boxcars at Fairfield Properties Ballpark.

Sunday, August 17 at 5:05 p.m.

Contest ends August 10th midnight with the winner chosen on August 11th

Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted. Scan

TUESDAY, JULY 29TH |

DUSK

NORTH WOODMERE PARK

Branch Blvd. & Hungry Harbor Rd., North Woodmere FREE ADMISSION | Bring Blankets or Chairs Weather permitting, call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date

One lucky member of the audience will WIN 2 TICKETS to watch New York Mets vs San Francisco Giants at Citi Field.

Sunday, August 3 at 1:40 p.m.

Contest ends July 27 at midnight with the winner chosen on July 28

Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME:

Nymble AI LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 03/13/2025. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 231 Polo Lane.

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

154574

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

INCORPORATED

VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Hewlett Harbor will hold a public hearing at Village Hall on Tuesday July 29, 2025 at 7:00PM. A ZOOM link to the meeting is available on our website at www.hewlettharbor.go

v. All interested parties will be given the opportunity to be heard on the following applications for variance relief:

Igor Fattaakhov - 1347 Pond Lane Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557Applicant is proposing to maintain a new patio and outdoor kitchen. The applicant is requesting relief from Village Zoning Codes.

“Zoning Code: 145-19 States the maximum permitted lot coverage in residential “A” district is 25%. Applicant is proposing 39%.

“Zoning Code:

145-2/145-19 Side yard aggerate requires a minimum of 45 feet. Applicant is requesting 33.75 feet. Applicant asking for relief of 11.25 feet

“Zoning Code; 145-2/145-19 Side yard setback requires a minimum of 20 feet. Applicant is requesting 12 feet.

Roman Musheyeu-252 Hedge Lane Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557Applicant is proposing to maintain a swimming pool. and install a new patio. The applicant is requesting relief from the Village Zoning Codes.

“Zoning Code:145-2/145-19. states the maximum permitted lot coverage in residential “B”District is 30% Applicant is proposing 33.8%.

“Zoning Code: 145-25(A) Accessory structures and building uses located in rear and side yards require 15-foot setbacks off property lines.

Applicants request to maintain a pool that is 5.95 feet off the property line.

“Zoning Code: 17-22. Building permit required. It is unlawful to construct any building or structure (pool) without filing for a building permit. Applicant is requesting to maintain the structure.

“Hillel Abramov-1330 Schencks Lane Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557Applicant is seeking to maintain nonconforming use of basement addition. Install new garage and tennis court structures in the rear of the property.

“Zoning Code; 145-19. States the maximum permitted lot coverage in a residential “A”District is 25%. Applicant is proposing 36%.

“Zoning Code: 145-5.1. (B) States that it is unlawful to use a nonconforming structure. Applicant is seeking to maintain part of the structure and remove the nonconforming use status.

“Zoning Code: 145-41/145-25. States accessory structures (tennis court/Pickle board courts) require rear yard set back of 20 feet. Applicant is requesting 15 feet.

“Zoning Code :145-19 Front yard setback in residential “A” District requires 35 feet.

Applicant is requesting to maintain 4.4 feet. Applicant is seeking relief of 30.8 feet of front yard setback. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

DR. JULIO NOVELLO, CHAIRMAN ZONING BOARD

Peter Lynch - Building Superintendent Dated: Hewlett Harbor, New York July 8, 2025 154660

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST JOSEPH DELUCA,

PAULA DELUCA, ET AL., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 6, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 27, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 11 Avon Road, Hewlett, NY 11557. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Hewlett, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, Section 39, Block 439, Lot 15.

Approximate amount of judgment $661,525.22 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002527/2017. Dan Blumenthal, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-000653 86308 154701

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON MORTGAGE

SECURITIES CORP., CSAB MORTGAGEBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-2, Plaintiff AGAINST ELLIOT RINDENOW, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 15, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 26, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 770 West Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being near Cedarhurst, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, and State of New York, Section 39, Block 197, Lot 72, and Section 39, Block 197, Lot 76, and Section 39, Block 197, Lot 82. Approximate amount of judgment

$1,428,888.33 plus

interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #006374/2009. No cash will be accepted by the referee as a deposit. Bank or certified check must state payee David S. Zeidman, Esq., as Referee. No endorsed or third party checks. David S. Zeidman, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-143727 86203 154699

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

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST JOSE C. MARTINEZ, MARIA S. ALVARENGA, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 28, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 26, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 102 Roger Avenue, Inwood, NY 11096. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Inwood, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 40, Block 146, Lot 126-129. Approximate amount of judgment $824,643.25 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604014/2020. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 20-000073 86175 154697

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

Asher Rabinowitz, a Woodmere resident, self-published the book The ABC’s of Recovery: A New Treatment Approach for Alcohol and Other Drug Disorders” to help people fight addiction.

Woodmere resident publishes addiction recovery guide

Woodmere resident, Asher Rabinowitz is a self-published author with his book “The ABC’s of Recovery: A New Treatment Approach for Alcohol and Other Drug Disorders” available on Amazon.

Rabinowitz, who described himself as a “senior citizen” studied Philosophy at Yeshiva University and after graduating he decided to enter the clergy as a Cantor/teacher. He was a Cantor for over 10 years.

After leaving the clergy, he embarked on his career as a social worker. He received his Master’s in Social Work from Stonybrook University.

“I chose to go into social work after leaving the clergy because I consider it really a transition more than a radical change,” Rabinowitz said. “Both the clergy and social work have the same route that is in helping people.”

Instead of helping people through one congregation, he spread out his work to help people multi-culturally.

He considers his book to be an “outgrowth of his work” as he has been in the social work field for 30 years.

“I’ve done a lot of pioneering work in my day with aspects of drug treatment,” he said. “I was one of the first people in Manhattan to start working with patients on the counseling aspect of using new medication for addiction.”

His book focuses on the behavioral aspect with a person-centered approach to help while taking medication and beyond.

“This is the essence of the help that I give medication is essential for stabilization,” Rabinowitz added. “Without the counseling component, it’s not as effective.”

The idea for his book first began in

2020 during the pandemic while giving Zoom treatments to patients coming out of rehab.

“The book is as simple as A, B, C,” he said. “It’s about awareness, boundaries and consequences.”

He then spent the next four years developing his idea and experimenting with them by using his own client base. The book was officially published, in July 2024.

“The book is split into two parts, the first being theory and the second part is stories which are more like therapeutic narratives and life lessons,” Rabinowitz said.

Robin Moore, a publisher from Pennsylvania, has been in the book business for over 40 years. He helped Rabinowitz self-publish his book with some light editing.

“What he has come up with a simple but very effective and a prismal way to help people who are battling addiction,” Moore said. “I like the fact that he was able to put something in simple language even though he is trained, he spoke in a language anybody can understand.”

Moore believes that Rabinowitz’s work is “heartfelt” and aimed at helping people reach their goals. He worked with him for three months by editing his manuscript and acted as his manager during the self-publishing phase.

“He is quite the interesting guy with a great sense of humor, somebody like Asher really poured his heart and soul into his work,” he said. “ It’s so rewarding for me after all these years for people to publish books who have been wanting to get into print.”

Rabinowitz is offering a free e-book available for all readers to download on Amazon. It will be available on Aug. 2 and 3. Email Rabinowitz at asherrab2024@gmail.com for more information.

Courtesy Janet Henock

Help Wanted

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour

Night Availability is a Must.

Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + 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

$19.30/hr.

• Monday-Friday; Shifts are assigned to the employee based on availability (8:15am-11:45 am, 10:45am-2:15pm, 11:30am-3:00pm)

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OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 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.

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In today’s world, bomb shelters are part of the conversation

Q. We live in Israel and, yes, we read your column. Our apartment building is just blocks from where a missile strike hit another apartment building and our hospital. Strange times we live in, when we have to run to our bomb shelter on the sixth floor when we hear sirens, just like you would run to the basement if a tornado siren went off. I was wondering, after neighbors were killed by missiles, is it possible to build a stronger safe room, because we need it and don’t want to die just because of where we live?

A. Fascinating question. I follow the news, and see the damage and fear from the sense of vulnerability you feel. When I received your question, I was, ironically, touring the behind-the-scenes research and testing facilities at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, just two days before bomber jets, like the B-2 stealth bomber I was standing under the wings of, were deployed to take out Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The massive impact of a missile is hard to resist, and although there are many military and non-military studies on bomb-proofing, there’s no one-size-fits-all scenario. The key to building a shelter that can resist a bomb is based on two basic premises. One principle of survival is to repel a bomb, and the other is to absorb the impact.

It’s interesting that engineers, whom I believe have played a strong role in our freedom over the centuries, studied, and succeeded in creating, designs that saved the lives of sailors on vulnerable P.T. boats. Those boat hulls were made of the same construction as concrete (gunite) pools. Gunite concrete has some of the highest construction strength achievable, at over 6,000 pounds per square inch.

The pools and P.T. boats are as strong as steel, and when all of the layers of steel reinforcement rods are contoured into the shape of a boat hull, they ships prove capable, as they did in World War II, of catching exploding torpedoes and absorbing the impact. In some cases, torpedoes survived, embedded in the boats’ hulls, so the boats had to be abandoned rather than return to port, and then the torpedoes were detonated. Most important, the sailors survived.

Missiles are another matter, however. I’m not aware of any building that sustains a direct hit being able to survive, so the important principle is to sacrifice the building for the sake of the occupants — just like sacrificing those P.T. boats. In the case of a bomb shelter, engineers have to approach the design by developing several feet of redundant shells, layered with shock-absorbing gel layers of material. The inner shell needs to be extremely strong steel or gunite — reinforced concrete — to resist the shock. I employed impact design when developing a high-security station for our military in Saudi Arabia, and then for a gun range project. You would need the area and money for such a lifesaving project. I hope you remain safe!

© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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opinions

Admiration of a former president from across the aisle

When I was elected to Congress in 1992, I certainly didn’t anticipate the close working relationship I would have with Bill Clinton, who was elected president that year. I was a lifelong Republican from New York, elected with strong Conservative Party support. Clinton was a staunch Democrat from Arkansas with roots in the anti-war movement.

I had met him in Manhattan in April 1992, two days before New York’s Democratic presidential primary. I was still the Nassau County comptroller, and had not yet announced my candidacy for Congress. A group of New York Irish-American Democrats led by elder statesman Paul O’Dwyer had scheduled a meeting with Clinton and his remaining challenger, Jerry Brown, the former California governor. Though we were far apart on the political spectrum, O’Dwyer and I were good friends.

When Clinton arrived, I was standing in the rear of the room. He made a brief opening statement before answering questions from a panel of four. What I

It’s

iquickly noted was his relaxed familiarity with Ireland’s 800-year struggle with Britain and its most recent iteration, the more than two decades of war being waged in the streets and hills of Northern Ireland, euphemistically labeled “the Troubles.” There were no pandering references to green beer or shamrocks. Nor did he make the ritualistic denunciation of terrorism.

HIn an answer to a burning issue that would have lasting consequences later, Clinton said he would grant a visa to Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Fein, the political party affiliated with the Irish Republican Army. He also said the United States had the obligation to speak out against human rights violations even if the offending nation was Britain, our closest ally. More than what he said was his ease in dealing with an issue that rendered most politicians tongue-tied or made them fall back on timeworn clichés.

comptroller was — and with both of us being entirely unaware how much our lives would be interlocked over the next several years, and not just on the Irish issue.

onoring Carolyn McCarthy recently, Bill Clinton was as eloquent as ever.

Remaining in the back of the room while photos were being taken near the front, I waited until Clinton was leaving the room by the rear door. I shook his hand, and said, “Good job, Governor.” He smiled, thanked me and walked on, not having the slightest idea or caring in the least who the Nassau County

Clinton went on to become the 42nd president, and just a year later kept his campaign promise when he granted Adams a visa to enter the United States, which was followed by meetings with Adams in the White House and Congress, which caused seismic reactions throughout the British government and the American State Department as well. But Clinton’s leadership and determination, which included unprecedented presidential visits to the most dangerous locations in Northern Ireland, on which I accompanied him, as well as the diplomatic alliances he forged with British and Irish Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern, led to the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in April 1998, ending that brutal 800-year-long struggle.

There was more to the Clinton years than Ireland. There was also his decisive action that successfully ended the Balkan wars in Bosnia and Kosovo. Domestically, he worked across the aisle with Newt Gingrich to achieve welfare reform as well as the only balanced bud-

get in the more than three decades since.

While all this was happening, of course, Clinton faced the first presidential impeachment in more than 130 years, and until then only the second in American history. While he had made serious mistakes in judgment, I strongly believed that what he was accused of did not meet the Constitution’s requirements for impeachment, or for removing from office the duly elected president, and would set a dangerous precedent for future presidencies. I was proud to stand with Clinton as one of only two Republicans who voted against all four articles of impeachment. And I have never questioned that decision.

All this and more came rushing back to me several weeks ago, when I joined Clinton as one of the speakers at the Celebration of Life for former Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, who died last month. Though he had been out of office for almost 25 years, the former president was as eloquent as ever, movingly describing his admiration and affection for McCarthy’s heroism and strength of character in overcoming horrific personal tragedy to achieve so much good for America. Once again, President Clinton came through.

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

long past time to shut down the cellphone

am a person of infinite patience. My friends compliment me on my ability to patiently listen to ideas from both sides of the aisle. I love watching the daily news on my laptop and on my cellphone. I read opinion columns, and occasionally get to read a nonfiction book on some current topic. But I must confess that I am now in a state of news overload.

I’m not quite sure when this illness kicked in, but if you think about all of the news events in recent weeks, you’ll easily understand why I, or anyone, could easily fall into a state of media-nausea. I think the first story that engulfed my ability to digest facts was President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Shortly after it passed in the House of Representatives, my phone began ringing off the hook with calls from important clients, asking about the impact of the budget cuts on Medicaid, SNAP and

other significant programs.

Alerted to the terms of the bill, I began a line-by-line review, and became more horrified once I understood the scope of the cuts. I couldn’t understand how the House could find billions of dollars to cut from Medicaid and claim that they were all related to rooting out “waste, fraud and abuse.”

FTaking food away from children isn’t the way to save taxpayers real money. By mid-June I was wilting under the barrage of calls asking for advice on how to get the attention of the region’s federal officials. Always looking on the bright side, I was pleased that the bill included such items as raising the state-and-local-taxes deduction cap to $40,000, and reduced taxes on tips and Social Security and many other goodies that were consistent with promises Trump made. I assumed that the Senate would support many provisions of the House bill and trim the Medicaid cuts. I assured many of my callers that there was hope that cooler heads would prevail, and the Senate bill would be palatable.

irst the bill, then the primary, then Epstein. It’s time to escape, and to ditch the device.

Come July, the Senate bill was ready for a formal vote, and its contents were even uglier. Rather than scale back the Medicaid cuts, the Senate found ways to increase them. The promised expansion of the SALT cap was altered to providing three years of an expanded credit and then reducing it to the old $10,000 cap. The elimination of taxes on Social Security disappeared, and the no-taxes-on-tips provision is scheduled to expire after 2028.

The torrent of calls asking for my opinion had just about ended when New York City Democrats chose the inexperienced Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani as their nominee for mayor. When the final results came in on primary night, I shut down my cellphone. Dozens of friends and neighbors wanted to know how to stop Mamdani. Ironically, many of them didn’t vote in the primary because they were registered Republicans or independents, and in some cases they were registered Democrats who failed to vote. I refused to console any qualified voter who failed to vote.

Now, weeks later, I’m being asked who I favor in the contest between Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams. I have no preference between the two, but there appears to be no way to beat Mamdani unless there is one independent candidate. At this point, neither Adams nor Cuomo shows any signs of getting out of the race in the interest of harmony. If both stay in, there’s no chance that Mamdani can be stopped.

Burdened by all of these panicked calls, I decided that the best thing I can do for my wife, Suzan, and I is to go away for a week or so and maybe shut down my phone. I can check messages from time to time, but that’s it. We’re leaving in search of a change of scenery.

No sooner I had made our airline reservations than the Jeffrey Epstein saga erupted. I told callers that we weren’t interested in visiting Epstein’s island or anywhere else attached to his name. My cellphone is now in the freezer, so don’t bother calling.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

July 24,

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Long Island’s water needs to be protected

long Island water users just won a major legal battle — but we are still far from winning the war for clean water.

A $10.5 billion national settlement with the multinational chemical manufacturer 3M over the widespread contamination of drinking water with PFAS — so-called “forever chemicals” — includes over $250 million for public water providers in Nassau and Suffolk counties. This hard-fought-for financial relief will help cover the staggering cost of removing toxic substances from our drinking water. But it will be payment for damage already done, not a fix for what still threatens our sole-source aquifer every day.

Long Islanders rely entirely on a single underground water source, an aquifer that provides drinking water to more than 2.8 million people. It has been under assault for decades by chemical pollutants that seep through soil, spill into drainage systems and leach from landfills and industrial sites.

Among the most dangerous threats are PFAS compounds, man-made chemicals used in everything from firefighting foam to non-stick cookware that do not break down over time and accumulate in both the environment and our bodies. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to health problems such as decreased fertility, developmental complications in children and an increased risk of some cancers and immune system issues.

In more than a few of our communities, these pollutants have created brownfields — usually industrial or commercial sites that are abandoned,

letters

Lights of Hope against cancer

To the Editor:

I would like to thank the Herald for its support of the first annual American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s Lights of Hope celebration at Glen Cove’s Morgan Memorial Park on July 12. The evening was a celebration of cancer survivors as well as a remembrance of those who have passed. By adding the event to your calendar, and printing a well-thoughtout story, you helped to raise awareness of the event.

I would also like to thank the City of Glen Cove and the wonderful people in the area for their support. And I would like to thank Loggia 1016 of the Sons and Daughters of Italy for their sponsorship. The event would not have been possible without the community support.

I’m happy to report that donations exceeded expectations, and we will definitely be back next year. Proceeds from Lights of Hope go

vacant or under-used, and where redevelopment or reuse is complicated by the presence or potential presence of at least one, if not more, contaminants.

The settlement is a victory for local water providers, many of whom have led the charge in holding chemical companies accountable. But it also shines a light on an uncomfortable truth: Long Island is already paying dearly for decades of environmental neglect.

Since 2017, more than $1 billion has been spent on installing and maintaining sophisticated water-treatment systems, according to federal estimates. And even with this financial award, residents and ratepayers will continue to bear the burden of ongoing operating costs.

So, while restitution is essential, it is not enough. The fight for clean water cannot begin at the filtration plant. It must begin at the source — with laws, oversight and habits that will keep our groundwater clean in the first place.

To policymakers: This is your moment to act. Strengthen oversight of chemical manufacturing, storage and disposal. Expand groundwater protection zones, especially near vulnerable recharge areas. Invest in forward-thinking, sustainable water infrastructure that protects our aquifer before contaminants reach it. Laws must reflect the seriousness of the threat, the indispensability of the resource and the fact that the water cannot be replaced.

To state and local agencies and appointed officials: It’s time to audit the regulatory framework governing industrial, agricultural and even residential activities that affect water quality. Permitting and enforcement must be rigor-

ous. No project, permit or loophole should be allowed to jeopardize our only supply of drinking water.

Long Island residents and business owners are part of the solution. Everyday actions matter — from how you dispose of household chemicals to the fertilizers and cleaning agents you use. Learn about the long-term impact of routine habits. Information is available from a variety of sources, beginning with local and state health departments. Support local clean-water initiatives. Vote for leaders who prioritize the environment. And above all, treat water conservation not as a suggestion, but as a shared responsibility.

This is not alarmism. It’s realism. The aquifer beneath Long Island cannot be replaced, rerouted or remade. We have no second source to draw from if it becomes too polluted or depleted. Every gallon of water pumped from below is a gallon we must protect with vigilance, policy and foresight.

Yes, the 3M settlement is a victory — but it should also be a warning. We cannot afford to celebrate a payout while the source of our water remains under threat. Financial settlements help heal wounds, but they do not prevent the next injury. That requires a cultural shift — from passive reliance to proactive stewardship.

Clean water is the foundation of our health, our economy and our communities. Long Island must now recommit — urgently, and collectively — to safeguarding the aquifer that sustains us all. Let’s make sure that in the future, headlines about our water celebrate prevention, not just compensation.

A Mayor Mamdani’s influence would extend beyond NYC a

nyone paying even casual attention knows about the shocking upset win by Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral primary. As the Democratic nominee in a race with four candidates, including minor party contenders, he could win with just a plurality of the votes. Current polling suggests he may be able to do just that, giving him a betterthan-even chance of becoming New York’s next mayor.

But why should we care? After all, most of us don’t live or vote in New York City. It’s a fair question. The answer is that Mamdani’s agenda is one of the most radical ever advanced by a major-party candidate in city politics. It has the potential to affect and reshape the entire metro region, including our communities here on Long Island. Here’s how.

1. Mamdani wants to freeze rents on about half of city apartments. This follows years of increasingly restrictive rent laws from Albany, which have already led to tens of thousands of

units being removed from the rental market. Many landlords who are unable to afford code-compliant renovations for new tenants have simply left apartments vacant.

A rent freeze would worsen this trend, making it financially impossible to build or maintain rental housing. Swedish economist Assar Lindbeck famously remarked that “rent control appears to be the most efficient technique presently known to destroy a city — except for bombing.” The resulting housing shortage would push demand into the suburbs, likely triggering renewed efforts by the state to override local zoning laws and force denser development in our towns.

H is agenda has the potential to reshape the entire metro region.

strained Metropolitan Transportation Authority budget. The MTA oversees the entire regional transit network, including the Long Island Rail Road. If revenue dries up, expect reduced service, fewer upgrades, deferred maintenance and higher fares for Long Island commuters.

particularly among young people exposed to one-sided activism in schools and universities.

2. Mamdani’s proposed taxes on the “rich” will drive out high earners, who, as history shows, often leave the city when taxes rise. Many of them move to surrounding suburbs — bringing housing competition and school enrollment spikes with them. Worse, their departure would shrink the city’s tax base, triggering budget gaps that Albany might try to fill at the expense of fiscally responsible counties like Nassau.

3. Mamdani’s plan for “free” bus service would blow a hole in the already

Letters

toward cancer prevention, education and advocacy.

American Cancer Society volunteer

Editors’ note: The American Cancer Society’s 32nd annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Long Island walk will take place on Oct. 19, from 7 to 10:30 a.m., at Jones Beach’s Field 5. For more information, go to MakingStridesWalk.org/LongIsland.

We’re safeguarding wildlife and waterways

To the Editor:

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Law Enforcement enforces the 71 chapters of the state’s Environmental Conservation Law, protecting fish and wildlife and preserving environmental quality across New York.

Last year, the Division of Law Enforcement fielded more than 105,700 calls, resulting in Environmental Conservation police officers and investigators across the state responding to more than 30,000 complaints and working on cases that resulted in 15,755 tickets or arrests for violations ranging from deer poaching to solid waste

4. Mamdani has a long record of hostility toward law enforcement. New York City police officials have already warned that officer departures could accelerate if he takes office. A diminished police force would likely lead to rising crime in the city — and as history has shown, crime does not respect borders. Nassau communities near the Queens line are particularly vulnerable to spillover effects.

5. Mamdani has come under frequent criticism for comments widely viewed as antisemitic. This should raise red flags for everyone in this region. In an area like ours, home to one of the largest Jewish populations outside Israel, it is particularly dangerous. When someone in a position of power uses their platform to promote anti-Israel rhetoric — or worse, downplay rising antisemitism — it sends a dangerous message. That message risks normalizing hate,

dumping, illegal mining, the illegal pet trade, and excessive emissions.

On July 7, three officers partnered with the Nassau County Police Department and the U.S. Coast Guard for a boat patrol on the Long Island Sound. The officers checked boats and anglers for compliance with state fishing regulations, navigation law and overall boater safety. They inspected a vessel north of Glen Cove, and discovered an expired fire extinguisher, expired flares, and only four personal flotation devices for the five people on board. The officers issued a ticket and warning to the boat captain, terminated the voyage, followed the vessel back to a nearby marina and advised the captain that they could take the boat back out if they brought another PFD on board.

In separate incidents that day across the Sound, officers ticketed anglers for possessing undersized porgy and fluke, including one angler who had more than two dozen undersized porgy, the smallest measuring 8.5 inches. Porgy must be at least 11 inches to be kept when fishing from a vessel.

DEC officers are on patrol to safeguard the state’s air, water, wildlife and public safety. To report an environmental violation or incident, call (844) 332-3267 for 24-hour dispatch, or report non-urgent violations at dec.ny.gov.

These are just a selection of Mamdani’s radical proposals. There are, of course, additional ideas that make little or no sense. The common denominator is that they come from a person that has little or no work experience outside politics, and whose ideas are ideologically driven, without regard to real-world experience and common sense.

No, we can’t vote in the New York City election, but we’re not powerless, either. We can call our friends and relatives in the city and ask them to consider the stakes. But more important, here at home, we have elections in November. Republican County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and a Republican majority in the Legislature, have taken many effective steps to shield Nassau from the excesses afflicting some of our neighbors.

Will you vote to continue this critical record of responsible leadership, or take a chance on new, inexperienced candidates whose loyalties lie with the same party that has now nominated Zohran Mamdani as its standard-bearer in the state’s largest city?

Think hard and choose wisely.

Howard Kopel represents Nassau County’s 7th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s presiding officer.

Framework by Tim Baker
HowarD kopeL

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