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Numbers are generating buzz at Seaford Manor Elementary School, as students compete in the annual March
Mathness challenge, organized by the Student Council. Each grade fills its “pot of gold” by solving weekly math problems, with students eagerly tracking progress on a hallway leaderboard. The class with the most points earns bragging rights as the Manor Mathematicians and a special prize. Above, Student Council members, from left, Sean O’Callaghan, Lucia Ingenito, Emma Palumbo, Avery Falta and Danny Cronin. At right, Damian Biscocho and Jack Gottlieb checked out their two weekly questions.


By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com
The Wantagh Inn, on Railroad Avenue, is the kind of place where you can enjoy a meal, drink a pint of Guinness or catch a game on television with your friends. It’s an inviting place where you’re always greeted with a smile, and the man who embodied that hospitality was its longtime owner, Michael Dunphy.
Dunphy, an Irish native turned American businessowner, died on March 20, at age 84.
His kindness spoke volumes — not through words, but through actions that touched so many lives.
Born in Macroom, County Cork, Ireland on April 4, 1941, he was raised by his father, Matthew Dunphy, a member of the An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s first free-state police force. An athlete, Dunphy excelled in Irish sports, including hurling and Gaelic football.
JIM JoNES Wantagh Chamber of Commerce
He hoped to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a police officer, but color blindness prevented him from doing so. He moved to London in 1963, where anti-Irish sentiment made it difficult to find work. In 1969 he emigrated to New York and found work in a vibrant sports bar and club in Manhattan called the Red Blazer. Soon afterward he met his wife of 52 years, Geraldine. The couple moved to Wantagh in the early 1970s, where they raised their children, Brian, Conor, Ronan and Una. In 1981 Dunphy, determined to open his own bar on Long Island, purchased an old butcher shop across from the Wantagh train station, which would become the Wantagh Inn.
He long understood the power of service and hospitality, beginning work as a barback, or bartender’s assistant, in a local pub when he was 12.
“Never flashy or pretentious,” read an online obituary for Dunphy posted to the O’Shea Funeral Home’s website, “like its owner, the inn was built on grit, tenacity, and a
Continued on page 11
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
The Board of Trustees at Nassau Community College has filed a formal legal claim against the State University of New York, escalating an ongoing dispute over the leadership of the college.
The Notice of Claim, a required step before initiating a lawsuit, challenges SUNY’s rejection of Maria P. Conzatti as the college’s permanent president. Trustees allege the decision was “arbitrary and capricious,” legally flawed and made outside the system’s authority.
According to the filing, the board appointed Conzatti as president on May 3, 2023, following what it described as a lawful process. Under New York State Education Law, local community college boards are responsible for selecting presidents, while SUNY’s role is limited to supervisory review.
Trustees contend that SUNY failed to complete that review in a timely manner, alleging the system did not conduct required interviews or take formal action for nearly three years. During that time, SUNY approved Conzatti to serve in multiple leadership capacities, including interim president, acting president and chief administrative officer, the claim states.
The college’s administration has remained firmly behind Conzatti, who was offered a five-year contract by the board in 2023, though that agreement has not received SUNY’s approval.
“The outcome we are looking for is for SUNY and the chancellor to make Maria Conzatti the permanent president,” Jerry Kornbluth, the college’s vice president for community and governmental relations told the Herald. “She’s been sitting in the seat for a little over three years now and performing at the highest level.”

escalating an ongoing dispute over the college’s leadership.
SUNY officials, however, said the presidential search process began in 2022 and included a committee made up of trustees, faculty, staff, students and community representatives. According to the system, that process produced five finalists who were interviewed on campus, though Conzatti was not among them.
SUNY has said the board ultimately selected Conzatti instead of the committee’s recommended finalists, raising concerns about the integrity of the process.
Kornbluth disputed that account, saying Conzatti was part of the broader candidate pool and ultimately selected through the established process.
He said Conzatti was ranked sixth among candi-
dates and was not among the initial five finalists, but that no finalist received enough votes to advance. As a result, he said, the process moved forward to additional candidates, including Conzatti, who was ultimately chosen.
“The five candidates were all interviewed by the board, and no candidate received enough votes to move forward,” Kornbluth said. “The college and SUNY legal team agreed not to terminate the search and move forward with the next candidates, of which Maria was number six.”
Kornbluth also said Conzatti was unanimously selected by the board and that her name was forwarded to the SUNY chancellor in accordance with the process. He said delays in SUNY’s review followed.
A SUNY spokesperson defended the system’s position, calling the legal action without merit.
“SUNY is committed to excellent leadership for all of our campuses and we will vigorously defend ourselves against this frivolous lawsuit that seeks to harm efforts to provide the world-class education and job preparation that New York community college students deserve,” the spokesperson said.
Despite the dispute, Kornbluth said the college’s operations have continued without disruption.
“We’re not taking our foot off the pedal,” he said. “We’re moving everything forward that we’re supposed to be doing. This is just a little bump in the road.”
The board is seeking judicial relief to overturn SUNY’s decision.
The filing marks the latest development in a broader conflict over leadership at Nassau Community College, where tensions between the administration, faculty and SUNY officials have intensified in recent months.
By Tara Jones
Off the coast of Long Island, a new chapter in the region’s energy future is already spinning.
The South Fork Wind project — the first utility-scale offshore wind farm serving New York — is now delivering electricity to the East End, demonstrating that offshore wind is no longer theoretical. It’s operating infrastructure.
The project represents more than a milestone. For energy planners and policymakers, it is proof that offshore wind can play a critical role in solving one of the biggest challenges facing downstate New York: how to replace aging power plants while meeting growing electricity demand and keeping costs low for customers.
According to an Aurora Energy Research study, they found that offshore wind generation could have saved New York ratepayers about $77 million during a single winter month. Because the price of the


energy that the wind farms produce are set at a single, stable rate for 25 to 30 years, there is no cost for the “fuel”.
Carrie Meek Gallagher, CEO of LIPA, also highlighted how South Fork Wind delivers particularly strong energy generation during the colder months, which means that when demand spikes, offshore wind can meet the demand when it is needed most.
John Durso, president of the Long Island Federation of Labor, said clean energy investment is creating opportunities that extend far beyond the construction phase.
Offshore wind projects require a highly trained workforce — from electricians and ironworkers to marine crews and engineers — and unions have been preparing workers through apprenticeship programs
that can take years to complete.
In turn, those good-paying union jobs and careers support families and help keep spending local.
The takeaway on offshore wind Long Island no longer has to debate offshore wind in the abstract, supporters say. It is already here and generating power, proving that cleaner energy, affordable energy, and local economic growth can go hand in hand.
As Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, pointed out, South Fork Wind coming online has also dispelled many of the environmental concerns around offshore wind.


More than 900 guests filled Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook for SCOPE Education Service’s 25th annual School District Awards Dinner on March 23.
To begin the night, George Duffy, executive director and CEO of SCOPE, welcomed all in attendance and offered his gratitude and thanks to all whose time and dedication were instrumental in planning the event.
This year’s program was dedicated to the memory of Jennifer Milillo, former SCOPE Awards Dinner coordinator. Her daughter, Danielle Marcello, accepted flowers from Duffy and was received with a wave of applause from the ballroom.
Duffy thanked the platinum, gold, silver and bronze-level sponsors of the evening and invited representatives from each organization to receive a plaque as a token of appreciation.
Robert Vecchio, executive director of the NassauSuffolk School Board Association, was given the National School Development Council’s Cooperative Leadership Award. Vecchio was joined by his wife and daughter, and he subsequently offered his praises to SCOPE and to all districts in attendance for the work they do for all students after he accepted his award.
The highlight of the evening was the service awards presentation. A total of 192 individuals were recognized across five categories: School Board Service, Community Service, Teacher Service, Support Staff Service and Administrator Service.
—Jordan












Dear Brothers and Sisters: Happy Easter to you and your families!
This Easter Sunday, Easter Octave, Divine Mercy Sunday and Easter Season we continue to pray and contemplate our Lord’s Resurrection appearances, and we give thanks for Pope Leo XIV and his worldwide spirit of Catholic mission.
despair of the two disciples on the Road to Emmaus. Their hearts burn and their joy is restored as the Risen Lord explains the Scriptures to them and they recognize Him in the breaking of the bread. In this way, the Paschal Mystery gives us hope and strength in every trial and circumstance.










In his Cycle of Catechesis on the Resurrection of Christ, Pope Leo writes: “The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is an event that one never finishes contemplating and meditating on, and the more one explores it, the more one is filled with wonder, drawn in as if by an overwhelming yet fascinating light. It was an explosion of life and joy that changed the meaning of reality itself, from negative to positive; yet it did not happen in a striking way, much less a violent one, but gently, hidden, one might say humbly.”
Pope Leo recognizes that there is much sadness in the world - “a feeling of precariousness, at times profound desperation.” We think especially of the daily crosses and trials of those from war-torn and violence-ridden areas of the world.
The Holy Father then reflects on the
Pope Leo concludes: “May the unexpected joy of the disciples of Emmaus be a gentle reminder to us when the going gets tough. It is the Risen One who radically changes our perspective, instilling the hope that fills the void of sadness. On the paths of the heart, the Risen One walks with us and for us. He bears witness to the defeat of death and affirms the victory of life, despite the darkness of Calvary... He alone makes the impossible possible!” May the Light of the Risen Christ illumine with God in Heaven our path to holiness on earth and our path to eternal life and happiness
Sincerely yours in the Risen Lord, Most Reverend John O. Barres Bishop of Rockville Centre
The Most Reverend John O. Barres is the Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre.
News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
grants, and savings will vary with every project.
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Hofstra baseball team is looking to take flight in the heart of spring after it was largely grounded to open the season in the dead of winter.
After opening the 2026 season with a three-game series at then fourth-ranked Mississippi State from Feb. 13-15, the Pride were only able to play three games over the next three weeks as mother nature unleashed historic snow totals across the Long Island region.
“You count on those early games to be able to evaluate the team and see where we’re going into conference play,” said fifth-year Hofstra head coach Frank Catalanotto. “It’s tough to replicate that when you’re inside in the gym or in the bubble.”
Playing just six games in the first three weeks of the season didn’t give Hofstra much preparation before starting the critical Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) portion of its schedule on March 6 at College of Charleston. The Pride took one of three games in series at Charleston and Monmouth to open conference play before taking two of three against Northeastern last weekend to move to 4-5 entering April.
Hofstra is looking to reach the sixteam CAA tournament with 21 returners from last year’s disappointing 18-36 team that went 8-19 in the league to miss out on the postseason. The Pride can assure a CAA playoff spot by placing among the top two in the league’s north division featuring Monmouth, Northeastern, Stony Brook and Towson or by having one of the two highest NCAA RPI ratings at the end of the regular season for the remaining teams.
Leading Hofstra’s charge for some late May baseball is red-shirt senior center fielder Tyler Cox, who hit .276 last season after transferring from West Virginia. The local lefty product from Clarke High School is second on the team in hitting as of March 30 with a .304 average and four home runs.
“He’s probably my best hitter in the

lineup and his approach has gotten better as lately he’s been more aggressive in hitting counts,” said Catalanotto of Cox. “He’s a leader on the team.”
Junior shortstop Michael Brown who leads the Pride in hitting with a .361 average and two home runs. Brown drove in the winning run in Hofstra’s 5-4 11 inning win against Northeastern on March 27.
Sophomore catcher CJ Griggs entered the final week of March hitting .304 and recording the winning RBI in a dramatic 11-10 win against Northeastern Sunday in which the Pride rallied for four runs in the bottom of the ninth.
JJ DeVito, a graduate student transfer from St. Johns, who was a former standout at Wantagh High School, has added some offensive punch to the lineup with a .268 average including four hits in a 5-4 loss at Charleston on March 8.
The pitching staff got a boost to start the season with the return of 2024 First-
Team All-CAA honoree Carlos Martinez, who missed last season due to Tommy John surgery. Martinez missed some early non-league action as he worked his way back from injury and Catalano is hoping he can peak during the crucial CAA portion of the schedule in April and May.
“He was struggling a little bit early with some pain in his arm, but now he’s feeling close to 100 percent,” said Catalanotto of Matinez.
The starting rotation for weekend CAA games also features sophomore Chris Bedford and senior Sean Hamilton. Key hurlers out of the bullpen include Nick Reese, Deuce Musial, Maddon McArthur, Tanner Sanderoff and Brayden Gregg.
Sophomore Michael Heyman, a Hewlett High School graduate, is another relief pitching option who could be called upon in non-league midweek games this season.

The Pride will look to get the April part of their CAA schedule off on the right foot with a series at Towson this weekend before hosting Long Island rival Stony Brook for three games from April 10-12. Hofstra will host series against Towson from May 1-3 and Monmouth from May 8 -10 before closing the regular season at Stony Brook.
Hofstra dug itself an early hole to gain a playoff spot by dropping four of six CAA games to start the season, but taking two of three from Northeastern gives the Pride a winning foundation to build off with plenty more conference games left to finish strong.
“There are a lot of games left and we’ve got to go take care of business,” said Catalanotto, a former 14-year Major League Baseball player who led Hofstra to a CAA title in his season as head coach in 2022. “We’ve got the talent to do it.”


























The politics of profits, taxes and surcharges have roiled the debate over public and private service
By Allyson Ferr Ari & Chris ColuCCi of the Herald
Fifth installment in a series about water.
Water is a business.
Advocates argue that water is a basic human right. It’s also a product, provided for a cost and purchased by consumers. Whether filling a 40-ounce water bottle, taking a long, relaxing shower or running the tap for two minutes of teeth-brushing, water consumption is an often overlooked part of our everyday lives.
Like other expenses considered essential for life such as food, electricity and a Wi-Fi signal, the water bill is a recurring payment. And just like other utilities, residents sometimes have limited options for their service provider.
Long Island residents are served by either public water districts or private water suppliers and, depending on location, some pay significantly more for the same basic necessity — often with little or no ability to choose their provider. While a majority receive water from public providers, a smaller portion of the population is served by private companies, often at higher cost.
The dollars and cents
When their water bill comes in, many ratepayers feel a sharp pain in the wallet. Costs can fluctuate based not only on how much they use, but what they use it for.
Several water districts estimate that the average use for a family of four is nearly 400 gallons per day. In some cases, especially in private service areas, water bills can range from $500 to $800 per month during peak summer periods, according to longtime advocate Agatha Nadel, a resident of Glen Head.
Pricing differs sharply between public and private water systems. According to Pamela Bellings, a communications specialist at Liberty Water, “Residential water rates are set through a regulatory process overseen by the New York Public Service Commission.”
“Rates are designed to recover the cost of operating, maintaining and upgrading water infrastructure while ensuring service remains safe and reliable,” Bellings said of how Liberty determines its residential rates.
“Rates do not fluctuate month to month, but they may change over time following regulatory review and approval,” she added. These proposed changes require detailed justification and include opportunities for public input before a decision is made, which helps balance customer affordability with the need to maintain and modernize critical water infrastructure, according to Liberty.
Critics argue that despite regulatory oversight, the structure of private water systems can lead to significantly higher costs due to general service charges, meter charges, regulatory charges and other fees.
Public water suppliers typically pro-

vide a standard water usage rate, a conservation rate — a type of sliding scale applying higher fees to higher use, intended to encourage judicious water use — and an irrigation fee for dedicated sprinkler systems, which are presumed to be relatively lower priority than consumption.
“We feel water is a basic need. You need it for drinking, cooking and bathing,” said Robert McEvoy, chairman of the Oyster Bay Water District.
“Once you get past that, whether you’re putting 15,000 gallons on your lawn in the course of a quarter or you’re drinking every last drop, it has to meet the same standards, health-wise. We have to treat all our water the same way.”
“Water districts are determined or created as part of town law,” McEvoy explained. “A lot of the boundaries preexist the Nassau Subdivisions Act and the Nassau County charter — when they were established. Some of them run sort of coterminous with school district lines.”
of about 9.75 percent per project by the New York Public Service Commission, and that can rise to as much as 12 to 15 percent.






While treatment standards remain consistent for public safety, pricing can vary significantly depending on the provider. In some towns, prices may even vary between houses on the same block due to water zoning boundaries or the homeowners’ use of private or public water supplies.
Nadel’s residence, for example, is in the Liberty Water service area, while homes just 100 feet away are served by the public Jericho Water District.
“My neighbor pays a fifth of what I pay in an entire year,” Nadel said. “No taxes, no surcharges, nothing.”
Pricing differences, advocates say, are driven largely by the structure of private systems, which include profit margins and surcharges and have limited access to the government funding that public providers rely on to offset costs.
Residents in a private system can pay three to five times more than those served by public water providers, according to Nadel. Private water companies are guaranteed a baseline profit
According to Nadel, a four-year rate cycle in the mid-2010s brought an increase of about 120 percent, significantly driving up household water costs. A major issue voiced by private water customers is the amount they pay in fees added to their water bills, which typically include base usage rates and additional charges such as taxes and surcharges. In some cases, nearly half of the bill is not for water usage. Surcharges can include the cost of infrastructure projects such as filtration systems, water towers and other capital improvements.
“It’s an absolute sin,” Nadel said of the surcharges. “Forty-one percent of a typical water bill goes to charges and taxes that have nothing to do with the actual water usage. It really is an absolute sin.”
While most Long Island homeowners rely on public water services from their local municipality, private water suppliers may be an option for certain service areas. Liberty Water is one of the area’s
Continued from PreViouS PAGe
largest private alternatives, currently supplying water to nearly 120,000 Nassau residents, primarily in the Town of Hempstead. A homeowner who wants an alternative to either public or private water suppliers would need to install and maintain a private well, subject to local and state requirements.
“For most customers, remaining connected to a regulated public water system provides reliability, water quality oversight and long-term infrastructure support,” Bellings said.
As a result, most Long Islanders continue to receive water service from the provider assigned to their area, even if they are dissatisfied with it. Because water is tied to geographic districts, homeowners typically cannot choose their provider.
As a matter of public safety, water suppliers — public and private — must adhere to state and federal guidelines to monitor and remove waterborne contaminants. “Private suppliers have the same health department and [Department of Environmental Conservation] requirements — federal, state and local requirements for pure water,” McEvoy said. “They have the same maximum contaminant levels for the same contaminants. Their testing requirements are the same as us, whether it’s a public or a private water supplier.”
McEvoy has decades of experience in the water industry, having previously served as chairman of the Long Island Water Conference and president of the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association — both organizations dedicated to ensuring water quality, safety and affordability across the Island.
Nadel explained that the Water Authority of North Shore has two main options to deliver public water: build and operate its own system or contract with an existing public provider. In her own research with North Shore Concerned Citizens, she has concluded that contracting with nearby systems — such as Jericho, Glen Cove, or Roslyn — would be the fastest and most practical approach because those providers already have infrastructure in place.
Long Island’s water systems are interconnected, allowing supplies to be rerouted during emergencies such as contamination events or periods of high demand, demonstrating that a transition from private to public supply may be feasible. Nadel said the shift would not be overly complex, but rather a matter of political will.
Homeowners having scant options is an issue on both shores, but potential alternatives have been considered for several years. The South Nassau Water Authority was created in 2021 to potentially offer Town of Hempstead residents an alternative to Liberty Water. A plan to establish a new water authority and create a sustainable, efficient and effective alternative to Liberty has been in the works for years. Residents and legislators are eager to move forward, but negotiations to transition away from the current water supply are complex and have moved slowly.
“Right now, the options are very limited,” explained Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, who represents District 21, which encompasses Baldwin, East Rockaway, Lynbrook, Malverne, Rockville Centre, South Hempstead and parts of Freeport and Valley Stream. “Residents that live in the Village of Rockville Centre and the Village of Freeport have municipal water; however, those who live anywhere else in AD-21 are served by Liberty Water with no ability to opt out, unless the municipalization of South Nassau Water Authority becomes a reality. The primary goal being to transition these private customers to public control to lower costs.” Public funding for some, but not for others
“Strong communities start with a strong infrastructure,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a 2024 news release. “Clean water is a basic human right.”
Last month, Hochul announced a plan to direct $28 million in state and federal grants to Long Island to help facilitate water infrastructure upgrades. The

Customers who received water from Liberty utilities opposed a 2023 rate hike that potentially saw bills in nassau County increase by a cumulative 34.2 percent. the increase ultimately went into effect in August 2024.
If your water bill seems excessive, there are some relatively simple steps to pare it down.
20-minute shower with standard showerhead
Up to 50 gallons of water
15-minute shower with low-flow showerhead
Up to 30 gallons of water
5 loads of laundry, standard machine
Up to 200 gallons of water per week
4 loads of laundry, Energy Star-certified machine
Up to 115 gallons of water per week
Standard toilet with minor running leak
Up to 1.6 gallons per flush plus up to 180 gallons per week
EPA-verified WaterSense-label toilet
Up to 1.28 gallons per flush
funds are part of a $250 million statewide project to improve water infrastructure.
The plan follows similar financial support in January of this year, when Hochul sent $18 million to Long Island — one part of a $288 million project — with the similar aim of making water and sewer infrastructure improvements.
In a statement supporting the most recent funding, Village of Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. wrote, “We know that access to clean water is not a luxury, but it is a necessity.” Hobbs continued, “Upgrading our aging water system, replacing outdated pipes and improving the overall system is critical to protecting public health.”
The influx of funds can play a significant role in maintaining and upgrading anything from deteriorating equipment at water treatment plants to damaged
underground supply lines. As government agencies, water districts can benefit from funding directly from the state, while private businesses cannot. The trickledown effect, so to speak, of extra governmental funding is that cost savings can be passed to residents. More important, water quality and safety can be more easily maintained. Private suppliers address potential safety issues at their own expense, without state or federal aid.
“Currently they’re not available for private water companies,” McEvoy said. “But the Long Island Water Conference has put it on their agenda to seek legislation that would give them access [to public funds] only for treatment of the contaminants. Not for any other purpose.”
Due to the unequal funding for environmental upgrades, public water providers are in a stronger financial position to improve infrastructure and remove contaminants using state and federal funds, while private systems are excluded from receiving them — meaning costs are passed on to residents.
The Environmental Protection Agency requires community water systems — public and private — to publish “community confidence reports,” most commonly in the form of yearly water-quality reports that reveal test results for contaminants, as well as facts and figures detailing overall water consumption.
The Jericho Water District Annual Drinking Water Quality Report for 2024, for example, highlighted nearly 4.9 billion gallons of water provided to 58,000 customers, averaging 13.4 million gallons per day. Jericho Water charges a minimum of $13 per calendar quarter, at a rate of $1.30 per 1,000 gallons up to 10,000 gallons. Fees increase on a sliding scale with usage — similar to the conservation rate used in other municipalities — reaching $3.90 per 1,000 gallons for usage above 200,000 gallons per quarter.
According to the 2025 Liberty Annual Water Quality Report for the Sea Cliff Operations District, the average customer used just under 95,800 gallons of water, at a cost of about $1,340, or $3.67 a day. Liberty also revealed that it served roughly 4,388 customers, at a total cost of $5.9 million.
The reports highlight how costs and scale can vary widely between systems, even as both draw from the same regional water supply.
For many residents, the issue is not just how much water they use, but who controls the system that delivers it.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
The EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies raised $160,000 at its 2026 EPIC Family Gala to support epilepsy advocacy, mental health counseling and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Long Island.
The event, themed “Love in Action. A Night to Give. A Legacy to Grow,” was held at the Heritage Club at Farmingdale and brought together community leaders, families, supporters and partners for an evening focused on sustaining programs that thousands of Long Islanders rely on each year.
“This year’s gala was a powerful reflection of our community’s commitment to ensuring no one faces life’s challenges alone,” said Lisa Burch, president and CEO of the EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies. “The generosity shown through this event directly supports the people we serve every day—individuals, children and families who depend on these services for care and advocacy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who came together to make this night such a success.”
Officials said proceeds from the gala are critical to maintaining and expanding services as demand continues to grow. Funding from the event helps stabilize programs that provide residential and day services, community-based supports, crisis response and outpatient mental health care, as well as education and advocacy for individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
Across its agencies, EPIC serves individuals facing a range of complex challenges. More than 35,000 Long Islanders live with epilepsy and rely on education, advocacy and seizure support services. At the same time, the need for mental health services has increased significantly, with the Nassau County Mobile Crisis Team

responding to more than 3,000 calls in 2025, connecting individuals in crisis to immediate care.
EPIC Long Island’s residential, day and clinical programs also support children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping individuals live with greater independence and maintain meaningful connections within their communities.
“Community support is essential to maintaining the strength and accessibility of our services,” said Jeff Nagel, board chair of EPIC Long Island.
“Events like the EPIC Family Gala help us navigate an increasingly complex funding environment while staying focused on the people and families who rely on us.”
“Access to timely, quality mental

health care is more important than ever,” said Steven Greenfield, board chair of South Shore Guidance Center. “The support generated through this event and donations received throughout the year helps ensure we can continue providing effective care and crisis services as needs grow throughout Long Island.”
The gala also recognized several honorees for their contributions to the organization and the community. Community Care Rx was named corporate honoree, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder received the community partner honor, and Joseph and Nina Meyer were recognized as Family of the Year for their advocacy and support of EPIC’s mission.
The EPIC Family of Human Service
Agencies is made up of three organizations serving Long Island. EPIC Long Island operates a day habilitation program in East Meadow, along with 18 group homes across Nassau and Suffolk counties, and provides clinical services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island focuses on awareness, advocacy and education, including seizure first aid training for community members. South Shore Guidance Center, based in Freeport, provides outpatient behavioral health services, including therapy, substance use treatment, crisis stabilization and medication-assisted treatment for individuals of all ages.
For more information or to support EPIC’s programs, visit EPICLI.org.

true sense of hospitality. Mike understood that serving others is the center of any community. He lived that belief every day.”
The spirit of Irish culture runs deep in Wantagh. The community’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, created by the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce, draws an estimated 50,000 spectators, and is followed by a block party featuring live entertainment, food and drinks in downtown Wantagh, near the Long Island Rail Road station. In 2023 Dunphy was selected to lead the parade as its grand marshal, and reflected on the impact his chosen community had on him and his family.
“The Wantagh Inn has allowed me to serve the community, and raise my family,” he said in March 2023. “I’ve watched babies grow up, I’ve seen spouses meet and get married. I often think back to where I left. I could never have imagined going out of Ireland. What a place America, and the American dream, has been to me.”
In a Facebook post, the Wantagh chamber stated that Dunphy was “more than the owner of the Wantagh Inn.”
“He was a cornerstone and pillar of our community,” the message read. “A quiet giver, a generous soul, and someone who never sought recognition but gave endlessly to those around him. His kindness spoke volumes, not through words, but through actions that touched so many lives.”
The chamber echoed Dunphy’s own sentiments — that moving to the United States had given him everything he could have dreamed of accomplishing.
“He loved Wantagh and he loved America — he appreciated and supported our first responders, veterans, and our entire community,” the chamber stated. “Wantagh has lost a true legend, but his spirit will live
michael dunphy, owner of the Wantagh inn, died last month at 84. He is remembered in the community for his kindness, generosity and hospitality — characteristics that have defined the inn since it opened in the 1980s.
on in every act of kindness, every shared story, and every moment of community he helped create.”
The Wantagh Preservation Society, which operates the Wantagh Museum at the site of the community’s Victorian-era train station, said that Dunphy was a supporter of the society’s efforts, and played an instrumental role in restoring its Jamaica Parlor Car, a train car from 1912, used on what would become the Long Island Rail Road.
Nassau County Legislator Kayla Knight, a Wantagh native, said that Dunphy “embodied the spirt of Wantagh through his generosity, quiet leadership, and unwavering support for our neighbors, first responders, and veterans.”
“He represented the pride, tradition, and sense of community that makes Wantagh so special,” Knight said. “His impact will be felt for generations through the lives he touched and the community he helped build.”
State Sen. Steve Rhoads, a longtime member of the Wantagh Fire Department, said that Dunphy and his wife “built something special” when they opened the Wantagh Inn, turning the establishment into a place where “friends gathered, stories were shared, and neighbors became family.”
The inn itself shared a message on its Facebook page, stating simply that Dunphy “was an amazing man, member of the community and leader whose presence will be sorely missed, and memory will be fondly cherished.”
Dunphy is survived by his wife, his children and 10 grandchildren. The Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home, in Wantagh, hosted a wake on March 23, and he was remembered at a Mass on March 24 at St. Frances de Chantal R.C. Church, and interred at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale. The Wantagh Inn was closed in observance of the funeral services.



with a citation in recognition of the honor.













































By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Dozens of advocates and concerned residents gathered at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola last month to protest Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposal to revise New York state’s 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
The CLCPA is an environmental policy that requires greenhouse gas emissions in the state to be reduced by 40 percent from 1990 levels by 2030 by replacing much of the state’s fossil fuel electricity with renewable energy. Hochul wrote about the policy in an opinion essay published by the Empire Report on March 20, titled “Climate Action and Affordability Must Go HandIn-Hand.”
Following the loss of federal support for solar, wind and other energy initiatives and the rapid increase of oil prices, Hochul suggested that the climate act could lead to severe utility cost increases if it is not revised.
“So much has radically changed since the climate act was enacted, necessitating common-sense adjustments that keep us on our path to a greener future in a way that is affordable for New Yorkers,” Hochul wrote. “We need more time, and so I am proposing we amend the law to require regulations to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions to

be issued at the end of 2030.”
Eric Weltman, senior organizer of the national nonprofit Food and Water Watch, led a group of protesters urging state legislators to defend the climate law later that day.
“We are here because Governor Hochul, unfortunately, is threatening to weaken New York’s landmark climate law,” Weltman said, “and we’re here to urge our legislators to stand up and
defend and protect the climate law. Hochul is embracing policies that would promote fracking and more costly fossil fuel pipelines and power plants.”
The CLCPA, Weltman said, reduces costs related to fossil fuels, decreases air pollution and supports a shift toward renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
Joe Sackman, executive director of the Long Island Progressive Coalition,
said the 2019 legislation “fully expressed New York’s willingness to take on climate change and move us toward a just and working-class-centered economy.”
“Governor Hochul, by demanding rollbacks to the CLCPA, you are playing politics with our future,” Sackman added. “It’s time to do what is right. No rollbacks on New York’s climate law.”
T.J. Shivers, representing New York Communities for Change, focused on the climate crisis’s direct effects on Long Islanders’ budgets.
“Energy burdens are crushing families from many low- and moderateincome communities,” Shivers said. “People are paying 6 to 10 percent or more of their income just on energy bills, far above what is considered affordable … When my bill goes up, it’s not just the number on paper, that’s food off the table.”
A number of community organizations joined the protest and spoke against revisions to the CLCPA, including the New York Public Interest Research Group, Transition Town Port Washington, the South Shore Audubon Society, the Green Party of Nassau County, All Our Energy, Grassroots Environmental Education, Renewable Heat Now and Bend the Arc Jewish Action: Long Island, calling for Nassau County residents to contact their local elected officials to advocate for preserving the climate act.

Hundreds of Catholics are expected to gather at the Cemetery of the Holy Rood in Westbury on Good Friday, April 3, for the annual outdoor walking of the Stations of the Cross, marking one of the most solemn observances of the Christian calendar during the 2026 Lenten season.
“This walking service provides a powerful space for our community to come together in prayer and reflection during Holy Week,” said Richard Bie, president and chief executive of Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island. “As participants journey through the Stations of the Cross, they walk in the footsteps of Christ and deepen their connection to this sacred tradition that has sustained the faithful for centuries.”
The 1.5-mile prayer service will guide participants through 14 stations depicting the Passion of Christ, from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate through the crucifixion to his entombment. Each station at the cemetery is marked by a cross or sculpture featuring carved images that illustrate these sacred events.
Deacons from Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island will lead the service, helping attendees engage in this Holy Week tradition. The Cemetery of the Holy Rood is one of four cemeteries operated by Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island.
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ and rep-

Courtesy Catholic
of
resents a cornerstone of the Catholic faith and the culmination of Holy Week. For Catholics worldwide, the day is observed with prayer, fasting and reflection on Christ’s sacrifice.
As part of Holy Week, the days leading up to Easter Sunday are observed with special solemnity as a time of devotion to the Passion of Jesus Christ. The outdoor walking service offers an opportunity for the faithful from across Long Island to gather in prayer and reflection during this sacred time.
For more information about the Stations of the Cross service and upcoming Masses and events, visit CCLongIsland. org.
—Jordan Vallone

Stuart Richner Publisher Rhonda Glickman V.P. Sales From the staff of
Jeffrey Bessen Jordan Vallone Managing Editor Deputy Editor




March 29 - PALM SUNDAY - 10:00am (In-person & Live Stream) Celebrates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Procession from the Parish Hall)


APRIL 2 - MAUNDY THURSDAY - 7:30pm (In-person & Live Stream)






APRIL 3 - GOOD FRIDAY - 12:00 noon (In-person only)
APRIL






APRIL 5 - EASTER SUNDAY - 10:00 am (In-person and Live-stream) “HE HAS RISEN”! - The Resurrection
Communities rarely fall apart because of one big failure. They weaken quietly, in the space between people who stop showing up. And often, the moments that matter most are the ones no one sees. A call made. A door knocked on. A person who chose to care. Passover is one of those moments in the year that invites reflection. Not because everything stops, but because it asks us to pay closer attention to what we owe one another. At its core, it tells a story about people who refused to remain where they were. A story about moving from limitation to possibility. From isolation to responsibility. It is an ancient story, but its message remains close to home. Because the same way communities drift apart quietly, they are rebuilt in the same way. One person reaching out. One act of responsibility. One decision to be present when it

would be easier to step back.
On Long Island, as in communities everywhere, the strength of a place is not defined only by its resources. It is shaped by the choices people make for one another. A neighbor who notices. A volunteer who gives time. A simple act that affirms that another person matters. These moments may seem small. They are not. They are the difference between a community that functions and a community that lives up to its responsibility. Passover has long carried a simple but demanding idea: that freedom is not only something we receive, but something we are responsible to extend. Not in grand, dramatic ways, but in quiet,
consistent ones. A conversation that restores dignity. An hour that eases someone’s burden. A choice to act with care, even when no one is watching.

There is an old teaching that a community is measured not by what it claims to value, but by how it treats the people who depend on it most. In a time when public conversation often emphasizes division, this season offers a different direction. It reminds us that we are not only individuals sharing space, but neighbors with a shared responsibility. We share streets. We share institutions. We share a future shaped not only by decisions made at the top, but by the choices made between us.
Passover is a Jewish holiday, but its message speaks to anyone who believes that responsibility matters, to anyone who understands that dignity must be protected, that community must be sustained, and that no one moves forward alone.
As this season arrives, there is an opportunity not only to remember a story, but to live its meaning. To notice more. To step forward more. To carry one another in ways that turn distance into connection. Because in the end, communities are not sustained by what we say we value. They are sustained by what we are willing to do for one another. If we take responsibility for one another, communities endure. If we do not, nothing else will be enough. Happy Passover!
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Tikvah in Wantagh.

As Hempstead Town begins to thaw from a frigid, snow-filled winter, officials are reminding residents that boating season will soon return — and with it a statewide requirement for safety certification.
Supervisor John Ferretti said boaters preparing to launch their vessels this spring and summer must comply with New York state law requiring operators to complete a recognized safe boating course by 2026. To help residents meet the requirement, the Town of Hempstead will offer additional certification classes.
The next Town of Hempstead Boater Safety Course will take place over three sessions on Thursdays, March 12, 19 and 26, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the town’s Conservation and Waterways building, located at 1401 Lido Blvd. in Point Lookout. Participants must attend all three sessions to receive certification. The classes will be administered by the Town of Hempstead Bay Constables.
Under state law, once boaters obtain certification, they must keep proof of completion on board their vessel while operating it. Residents interested in registering for the course can contact the Town Bay Constables at (516) 897-4100.
—Jordan Vallone






































By Abbey Salvemini
Fresh talent is in full bloom this spring at Heckscher Museum of Art. For three decades, the Heckscher Museum of Art has served as a prestigious launchpad for the next generation of visual storytellers. “Long Island’s Best” is back, marking its 30th anniversary as it spotlights emerging high school artists throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, now through May 3.
As the only juried exhibition of its kind on Long Island, this program offers high schoolers the rare distinction of seeing their work hanging in a professional museum and memorialized in a full-color commemorative catalog. The selection process is famously rigorous: For the 2026 season, 84 finalists were curated from over 400 submissions representing 63 schools across Nassau and Suffolk. Tasked with this challenge were jurors Meredith Brown, Ph.D., the museum’s consulting curator of contemporary art, and guest juror Aaron Feltman — an accomplished artist and a proud Long Island’s Best alumnus.
“It is never an easy process,” says Brown, who explained that the strongest pieces combine technical skill with originality and meaningful themes.
This year’s exhibition included an unusually high number of sculptures — more than in any previous “Long Island’s Best” exhibitions — that reflect both the students’ ambition and influenced by the recent exhibition “Emma Stebbins: Carving Out History.”
“I was surprised by the number of sculptural submissions,” Brown adds. “Sculpture is tricky, and many schools don’t have the resources, but these students took the challenge on and produced really compelling work.”
Among standout pieces is Luminous Harvest, a ceramic sculpture by Lyla Pinto, a senior at Long Beach High School, which earned fourth place and the Stan Brodsky Award. Inspired by painter Darragh Park’s “To Here/From Here,” Pinto created a tree-like form composed of branches holding symbolic fruit and candles.
“I was drawn to Park’s artwork because it seemed alive, as though the forms are changing and expanding rather than remaining still,” she explains. “The handcrafted fruits represent abundance, sustenance and the various attributes each branch offers. I made seven branches because the number seven represents completeness and balance, suggesting a full cycle of growth rather than a single moment. Like Park, I wanted to convey a sense of natural rhythm through organic shapes as demonstrated in the abundance and repetitious organic greenery.”
For Director of Education Joy Weiner — whose program leadership is being honored at a “30th Birthday Bash” on April 18 — the most rewarding aspect of her involvement is observing students experience the thrill of having their work displayed in a museum.
“Just watching their faces as they show their parents how special this opportunity is, that’s one of the happiest memories every year,” she relates.
“Long Island’s Best” has evolved considerably since its early years.
“Years ago, there were landscapes, still lifes and portraits. That was pretty much what you got,” Weiner


Lyla Pinto: Lyla Pinto’s ceramic sculpture “Luminous Harvest, was awarded Fourth Place and honored with the Stan Brodsky Scholarship Award.

• Now through May 3
• Open Thursday through Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
• Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington
• Visit Heckscher.org or call (631) 380-3230 for information on related programming
adds. “Over the years, the different kinds of materials became something that students were interested in exploring. And they’re also much more aware of the world around them, tackling social issues, personal experiences and big-picture ideas through their art.”
While the program certainly sharpens their technical craft, its true value lies in instilling the professional rigor required of a working artist. It also underscores the lasting influence of arts education, with many alumni pursuing careers in art, design, filmmaking, and teaching.
“The whole process from beginning to end involves meeting deadlines, working with teachers, creating the work and writing about it,” Weiner says. “That’s very important as they continue in their careers, to not only create a work of art but to be able to speak about it and share it with others.”
Looking ahead, both Brown and Weiner encourage students to embrace the process, even if their work isn’t selected.
“Sharing your work is a powerful experience. It helps students grow as artists and lets others engage with their vision.” Weiner adds.“Even if your piece isn’t chosen, you learn something about yourself and your art. And when people connect with your work, it’s a truly rewarding experience.”
Teachers, Long Island’s Best alumni and the community are all invited to the stylish “Birthday Bash” celebrating this momentous milestone. Alumni and local artists will contribute works for a fundraiser, underscoring the lasting influence of “Long Island’s Best” throughout the region. The gathering includes an opportunity to meet students and hear firsthand how the program shaped their creative journeys.
“I’ve been privileged to watch the growth of Long Island’s Best,” Weiner says. “I have seen elementary school students eventually become LI Best finalists, have watched students’ progress to becoming Long Island Biennial artists as professionals; and have been lucky to work with students who now teach art in our community, inspiring the next generation.”
This milestone exhibit not only celebrates the talent of today’s students but also emphasizes the enduring value of arts education in shaping Long Island’s creative future. It’s an opportunity to explore a wide variety of media and themes while experiencing the fresh perspectives and voices of the next generation of artists, gaining insight into how young people interpret the world around them through art.

Dan Soder
Come chill with stand-up comedian Dan Soder! Get ready for a night of sharp, laugh-out-loud comedy when he takes the stage on The Golden Retriever of Comedy tour. Known for his quick wit and effortlessly relatable storytelling, Soder has built a devoted following. His credits include ”Not Special” on Comedy Central, a standout turn on Netflix’s The Standups” and his acclaimed HBO special “Son of a Gary.”Fans have also embraced his hit YouTube special, “Dan Soder: On The Road,” a laugh-packed set filled with smart, surprising takes on relationships, growing up and everything in between. Offstage, Soder hosts the popular podcast Soder and was a longtime co-host of SiriusXM’s The Bonfire from 2015 to 2023. Many will also recognize him from his role as Dudley “Mafee” on Billions. With his easygoing charm and razor-sharp observations, Soder delivers comedy that feels both down-to-earth and unexpectedly insightful.
Saturday, April 4, 7 and 9 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

‘…how I wish you were here’
Wish You Were Here celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” acclaimed as one of the greatest albums of all time and cited by Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright and guitarist David Gilmour as their favorite album. The band continues its 30-year tradition of combining sight and sound to capture the mood, emotions, and intensity of the Floydian theatrical concert experience — in a spectacular tribute of music, performers, lighting, video, lasers and inflatables — all performed without backing or click tracks. The veteran 10-piece musical ensemble features seven vocalists and a Floydian stage production — sound effects and vintage videos, flying inflatables, theatrical vignettes with props, and a sensational light show with moving lasers, rolling fog and state-of-the-art intelligent lighting — all produced with a fan’s obsession for detail.
Thursday, April 9, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
April 2, 2026
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum stages
“Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also April 6-9
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens, now open for the 2026 season, to xplore creativity in nature during this one-hour guided program through the gardens and at the barn at Orchard Hill. Children will observe colors, textures, and patterns in the landscape, play artinspired games, and create a simple hands-on art project using natural inspiration. Meet at the Beech Tree. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 11 a.m.-noon
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
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Local favorite Mike DelGuidice returns to the Paramount stage with his popular residency, delivering the high-energy, feel-good performances that have made him a hometown standout. Backed by his powerhouse band, DelGuidice brings the music of his idol, Billy Joel, to life with passion and precision, celebrating decades of iconic hits in a rousing, crowd-pleasing show. A multi-instrumentalist who grew up immersed in music, DelGuidice’s deep knowledge of Joel’s catalog ultimately led to sharing the stage with the Piano Man himself, touring around the world. Alongside beloved classics, he weaves in his own original songs, showcasing the songwriting that has earned him a devoted following. His releases include My Street, Miller Place and Mask Production, and his track “Ordinary Guy” was featured as the theme for Kevin Can Wait starring Kevin James. Whether performing on stage or connecting with fans through his “Live on the Porch” series, which brought audiences together during the pandemic, DelGuidice continues to share his love of music in ways that resonate far beyond the Long Island community.
part in a reading of the classic Peter Rabbit tale, “The Great Big Easter Egg Hunt.” Afterward join in an exciting egg hunt in the Cottage Garden! Perfect for children ages 3-6. Up to 12 eggs per child may be redeemed for prizes; eggs are empty. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m.
Mobile Shredding/ Electronic Recyling
Recycle your electronics and shred all your excess paper safely and securely, hosted by Wantagh Public Library (outside). Limited to 3 boxes (standard size storage box) or 3 bags (paper or clear plastic) per person. No registration required.
• Where: 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh
• Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Contact: wantaghlibrary.org
Great Big Easter Egg Hunt
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families for some Easter fun. Take
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333
Building Homes for Heroes 5K
Building Homes for Heroes holds its second annual 5K in Eisenhower Park.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 2
• When: 8 a.m.
• Contact: Register at Events.EliteFeats. com/26honoringheroes
Families are invited to Long Island Children’s Museum to illuminate their imagination and inspire creativity. In this educator-led, hands-on workshop, APR
8
participants are introduced to the history and process of lantern making while creating their own unique drawing. In collaboration with LuminoCity, participants’ 2-D artwork will be submitted for a chance to have it brought to life as a 3-D light sculpture featured on display at the 2026 LuminoCity Festival. Free limited ticket with museum admission, available at the Box Office on the day of the workshop.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11-noon and 3-4 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Family movie
Seaford Public Library welcomes families to a showing of the Disney/Pixar classic “Finding Nemo.” When Nemo is captured, his dad sets off on an ocean adventure to bring him home in this heartwarming Pixar favorite. No registration required.
• Where: 2234 Jackson Ave., Seaford
• Time: 1:15-3 p.m.
• Contact: seafordlibrary.org
Bingo at Temple B’Nai
Torah
Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive
Room at The Milleridge Inn. Tickets are $125 and include dinner, drinks and the show; advance purchase is required. Raffles and a 50/50 drawing will also be held.
• Where: 585 N. Broadway, Jericho
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: thesarahgracefoundation.org
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
• Time: 8 p.m., also Apr 11
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.
• Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15-10 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 221-2370
Game time
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Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.
• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Noon-4 p.m.
• Contact: mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or (516) 785-2445
APR
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‘An Evening of Magic’ fundraiser
The Sarah Grace Foundation for Children With Cancer
hosts its annual “An Evening of Magic” gala dinner. Awardwinning magician Will Fern brings high-energy entertainment, including strolling magic and mind reading, to benefit children with cancer. The dinner fundraiser takes place in the Philodendrum
‘Dog Sees God’ Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance presents Bert V. Royal’s edgy comedy. The unauthorized continuation of the Peanuts comic strip, reimagines its characters as teenagers dealing with various contemporary issues including, identity, substance abuse, and relationships. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that’s both haunting and hopeful. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.
• Where: Hofstra’s Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater, Joseph G. Shapiro Family Hall, Hempstead
• Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; also April 12, 2 p.m.; April 16-April 19
• Contact: hofstra. universitytickets.com
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Seaford BOE meets Seaford Board of Education holds its next monthly meeting.
• Where: 1590 Washington Ave., Seaford
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 592-4000
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.








APRIL 16 • 10AM-12:30PM
759 LONG ISLAND AVE,
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.

MAE CAIME FOUNDER, AMAEZING MIDLIFE & BEYOND
EXPERT PANEL + Q&A
RAFFLE DRAWINGS MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN
Register for this FREE event: Deerpark.eventbrite.com or email lcreem@LIHerald.com or call 516.569.4000 x243






LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT AND LIBRARY ELECTION
SEAFORD UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND SEAFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that voting upon the estimated expenses for school and library purposes for the Seaford Union Free School District (the “School District”) and the Seaford Public Library (the “Public Library”), for the school year 2026/2027, the election of members of the Board of Education and Library Board of Trustees, Proposition No. 1 (School Budget 2026/2027) and Proposition No. 2 (Public Library Budget 2026/2027), as follows, will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 in each of the school election districts heretofore established:
PROPOSITION NO. 1
SCHOOL BUDGET
2026/2027
RESOLVED, that the proposed 2026/2027 Budget providing for the appropriation of the necessary funds to meet the estimated expenditures of the School District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, as presented by the Board of Education of the Seaford Union Free School District at Seaford, Nassau County, New York, at the Public Hearing, be approved and the Board of Education be authorized to levy the necessary tax therefor.
PROPOSITION NO. 2 PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET 2026/2027
RESOLVED, that the library budget in the amount of $2,658,614 for the year 20262027 proposed by the Board of Trustees of the Seaford Public Library and the levy of a tax therefor in the amount of $2,480,922 in accordance with the Education Law shall be approved.
VOTING will be by ballot on voting machines in the schoolhouses designated in each of the separate school election districts heretofore established and the polls will remain open from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., and as much longer as may be necessary for all voters then present to cast
their votes.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the electors have previously adopted a proposition providing that vacancies upon the Board of Education shall not be considered separate specific offices and that the nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board of Education for which the candidate is nominated.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election of members of the Board of Education shall be as follows: Two (2) members of the Board of Education each for a full term of three (3) years, commencing July 1, 2026.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election for one (1) member of the Board of Trustees of the Seaford Public Library shall be as follows: One member for a five (5) year term commencing July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2031 (incumbent Margaret D. Grub).
NOMINATIONS OF CANDIDATES: Candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be nominated by petition. Each petition for candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be directed to the Clerk of the School District (“the District Clerk”), in the Seaford Manor School, Washington Avenue, Seaford, New York, shall be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the School District, shall state the residence of each signer, and shall state the residence of the candidate. To nominate a candidate for the Public Library Board, the petition must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the School District. Vacancies on the Board of Trustees are not considered separate specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.
Each petition shall be filed in the District Clerk’s Office between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and by not later than 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2026.
SCHOOL ELECTION DISTRICTS: The
boundaries of the following School Election District shall be as heretofore determined and published by the Board of Education and the place in each election district for registration and voting shall be as follows:
a) FIRST SCHOOL ELECTION
DISTRICT - Registration and voting at the Seaford Manor School, Washington Avenue, Seaford, New York. Community members who reside within the geographic boundaries of the Manor Elementary School shall be required to cast their ballots at the Manor Elementary School.
b) SECOND SCHOOL ELECTION
DISTRICT - Voting at the Seaford Harbor School, Bayview Street, Seaford, New York. Community members who reside within the geographic boundaries of the Harbor Elementary School shall be required to cast their ballots at the Harbor Elementary School.
The geographic boundaries for these attendance zones are set forth on the transportation map contained within the office of the Assistant Superintendent for Business and may be reviewed upon request.
PERSONAL REGISTRATION OF VOTERS
All qualified voters of the School District must be registered in the School Registration books in order to vote at such election on May 19, 2026.
The following persons shall be eligible to vote: All persons who shall have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance herewith and all persons who shall have previously registered hereunder for any annual or special meeting or election and who shall have voted at any annual or special meeting or election held or conducted during the four calendar years prior to 2026 (i.e., 2021-2025). In addition, all persons who are registered to vote pursuant to the provisions of section three hundred fifty-two of the Election Law of the State of New York shall be eligible to vote.
Registration of voters not previously registered and eligible to vote shall continue to take place until May 12, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. in the District Clerk’s office.
The District Clerk shall prepare the Register of the School District on the dates and times above specified, and any person shall be entitled to have his/ her name placed upon such Register provided that at that time, he/ she is then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such register is prepared.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that the District Clerk shall also be present during the annual School District and Public Library election at each schoolhouse where voting shall take place for the purpose of preparing a register for School District and Public Library elections held subsequent thereto.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Register of Voters so prepared as aforesaid shall be filed in the District Clerk’s Office upon its completion where it shall be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the School District, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and on each of the five days prior to the date set for the election except for Sunday, and it shall also be open for inspection on Saturday, by appointment.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that there will be a Public Hearing on the proposed School District budget on Wednesday May 6, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in Seaford Manor Elementary School All-Purpose Room, 1590 Washington Avenue, Seaford, New York.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees of the Library, for the purpose of discussion of the expenditure of funds and the budgeting thereof for the Seaford Public Library for the fiscal year 2026-2027. Said hearing will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. in the Seaford Public Library, Valentine Meehan Memorial Community Meeting Room, 2234 Jackson Avenue,
Seaford, New York.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that copies of the proposed 2026/2027 School District budget, as prepared by the Board of Education and the Public Library budget, will be available on request to the taxpayers and be obtained at any school house in the School District between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on each day other than a Saturday or Sunday or holiday and at the Seaford Public Library, Jackson Avenue, Seaford, New York, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays, on each day other than a Sunday or holiday, during the fourteen (14) day period preceding the annual meeting and election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices; as well as on the District’s website.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE Application for absentee and early mail ballots for the school district and public library election may be made at the District Clerk’s office on Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Applications for absentee or early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No absentee or early
mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election. A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued will be available in the District Clerk’s office on Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., until the day of election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the Office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board of Education shall convene a special meeting thereof within twenty-four hours after the filing with the District Clerk of a written report of the results of the ballot for the purpose of examining and tabulating said reports of the results of the ballot and declaring the result of the ballot. The Board of Education hereby designates itself to be a set of poll clerks
to cast and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law, Section 2019-a subdivision 2(b) at said special meeting of the Board.
Dated: April 2, 2026
By Order of the Board of Education Seaford Union Free School District Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York
Carmen T. Ouellette District Clerk 159180
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE ELECCIÓN ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR Y LA BIBLIOTECA DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNIFICADO DE SEAFORD Y BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE SEAFORD, MUNICIPIO DE HEMPSTEAD
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la votación sobre los gastos estimados para fines escolares y de biblioteca del Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de Seaford (el “Distrito Escolar”) y de la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford (la “Biblioteca Pública”), correspondientes al año escolar 2026/2027, así como la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación y de la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca, la Propuesta N.º 1 (Presupuesto Escolar 2026/2027) y la Propuesta N.º 2 (Presupuesto de la Biblioteca Pública 2026/2027), según se detalla a continuación, se llevará a cabo el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 en cada uno de los distritos de votación escolar previamente establecidos:
PROPOSICIÓN NO. 1 PRESUPUESTO ESCOLAR 2026/2027
SE RESUELVE, que el presupuesto propuesto para el año 2026/2027, que contempla la asignación de los fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos estimados del Distrito Escolar durante el año fiscal que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026, según lo presentado por la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de Seaford, en Seaford, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en la Audiencia Pública, sea aprobado y que la Junta de Educación quede autorizada para imponer el impuesto correspondiente.
PROPOSICIÓN NO. 2
PRESUPUESTO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA 2026/2027
SE RESUELVE, que el presupuesto de la biblioteca por la cantidad de $2,658,614 para el año 20262027, propuesto por la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford, y la imposición de un impuesto correspondiente por la cantidad de $2,480,922, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación, sea aprobado.
La VOTACIÓN se llevará a cabo mediante boletas en máquinas de votación, en las escuelas designadas dentro de cada uno de los distritos electorales escolares previamente establecidos, y las urnas permanecerán abiertas desde las 7:00 a.m. hasta las 9:00 p.m., y por más tiempo si fuera necesario para que todos los votantes presentes puedan emitir su voto.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que los electores han adoptado previamente una proposición que establece que las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se considerarán cargos específicos separados y que las peticiones de nominación no deberán describir ninguna vacante específica en la Junta de Educación para la cual se nomine al candidato.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación será la siguiente: Dos (2) miembros de la Junta de Educación, cada uno para un período completo de tres (3) años, comenzando el 1 de julio de 2026.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que la elección de un (1) miembro de la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford será la siguiente: Un (1) miembro para un período de cinco (5) años, desde el 1 de julio de 2026 hasta el 30 de junio de 2031 (titular Margaret D. Grub).
NOMINACIONES DE CANDIDATOS: Los candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberán ser nominados mediante petición. Cada petición de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberá estar dirigida al Secretario del Distrito Escolar (“Secretario del Distrito”), en la

Escuela Seaford Manor, Washington Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York; deberá estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar; deberá indicar la residencia de cada firmante y deberá indicar la residencia del candidato.
Para nominar a un candidato para la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca Pública, la petición deberá estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar. Las vacantes en la Junta de Síndicos no se consideran cargos específicos separados; los candidatos se postulan en general. Las peticiones de nominación no deberán describir ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual se nomine al candidato.
Cada petición deberá presentarse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., y a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 20 de abril de 2026.
DISTRITOS
ELECTORALES
ESCOLARES: Los límites de los siguientes distritos electorales escolares serán los previamente determinados y publicados por la Junta de Educación, y el lugar de registro y votación en cada distrito electoral será el siguiente:
a) PRIMER DISTRITO ELECTORAL ESCOLAR - Registro y votación en la Escuela Seaford Manor, Washington Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York. Los miembros de la comunidad que residan dentro de los límites geográficos de la Escuela Primaria Manor deberán emitir su voto en la Escuela Primaria Manor.
b) SEGUNDO DISTRITO ELECTORAL ESCOLAR - Votación en la Escuela Seaford Harbor, Bayview Street, Seaford, Nueva York. Los miembros de la comunidad que residan dentro de los límites geográficos de la Escuela Primaria Harbor deberán emitir su voto en la Escuela Primaria Harbor.
Los límites geográficos de estas zonas de asistencia están establecidos en el mapa de transporte que se encuentra en la oficina del Sub-superintendente
de Negocios y pueden ser revisados previa solicitud.
REGISTRO PERSONAL DE VOTANTES
Todos los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar deben estar registrados en los libros de registro escolar para poder votar en dicha elección el 19 de mayo de 2026.
Las siguientes personas serán elegibles para votar: Todas aquellas que se hayan presentado personalmente para registrarse conforme a lo aquí dispuesto, y todas aquellas que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier reunión o elección anual o especial y que hayan votado en alguna reunión o elección anual o especial celebrada durante los cuatro años calendario anteriores a 2026 (es decir, 20212025). Además, todas las personas registradas para votar conforme a las disposiciones de la sección trescientos cincuenta y dos de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York serán elegibles para votar.
El registro de votantes que no se hayan registrado previamente y que sean elegibles para votar continuará hasta el 12 de mayo de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m., en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito
El Secretario del Distrito deberá preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar en las fechas y horarios antes especificados, y cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre sea incluido en dicho Registro, siempre que en ese momento, o posteriormente, tenga derecho a votar en la reunión o elección escolar para la cual se prepara dicho registro.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que el Secretario del Distrito también estará presente durante la elección anual del Distrito Escolar y de la Biblioteca Pública en cada escuela donde se lleve a cabo la votación, con el propósito de preparar un registro para las elecciones del Distrito Escolar y de la Biblioteca Pública que se celebren posteriormente.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que el Registro de Votantes preparado conforme a lo anterior será archivado en la
Oficina del Secretario del Distrito una vez completado, donde estará disponible para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito Escolar, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:30 p.m., y durante cada uno de los cinco días previos a la fecha fijada para la elección, excepto el domingo. Asimismo, estará disponible para su inspección el sábado, mediante cita previa.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que se llevará a cabo una Audiencia Pública sobre el presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar el miércoles 6 de mayo de 2026 a las 7:30 p.m., en el Salón de Usos Múltiples de la Escuela Primaria Seaford Manor, 1590 Washington Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que se celebrará una audiencia pública por la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca, con el propósito de discutir el gasto de fondos y la elaboración del presupuesto de la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford para el año fiscal 2026-2027. Dicha audiencia se llevará a cabo el lunes 11 de mayo de 2026, a las 7:00 p.m., en la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford, Sala Comunitaria Memorial Valentine Meehan, 2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS de que copias del presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar para 2026/2027, preparado por la Junta de Educación, así como del presupuesto de la Biblioteca Pública, estarán disponibles a solicitud de los contribuyentes y podrán obtenerse en cualquier escuela del Distrito Escolar entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., de lunes a viernes (excepto sábados, domingos o días festivos), y en la Biblioteca Pública de Seaford, Jackson Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York, en los siguientes horarios: de 10:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m. los Lunes, martes, jueves y viernes; de 1:00 p.m. a 6:00 p.m. los miércoles; y de 10:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m. los sábados. Esto será durante el período de catorce (14) días previos a la reunión y elección anual, excepto domingos o días festivos.
TÓMESE NOTA
ADEMÁS de que un Informe de Exención de
Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, preparado de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, será anexado a cualquier presupuesto tentativo/preliminar, así como al presupuesto final adoptado, del cual formará parte; y deberá ser publicado en los tablones de anuncios del Distrito destinados a avisos públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS que la solicitud de boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo para la elección del distrito escolar y de la biblioteca pública podrá hacerse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito de lunes a viernes, excluyendo días festivos, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. Las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia o de voto anticipado por correo deberán recibirse por el Secretario del Distrito no antes de treinta (30) días previos a la elección. Además, dicha solicitud deberá recibirse por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta ha de enviarse por correo al votante, o el día anterior a la elección si la boleta ha de entregarse personalmente al votante o a su representante designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de boleta de voto en ausencia o de voto anticipado por correo, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la boleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. Ninguna boleta de voto en ausencia o de voto anticipado será contabilizada a menos que haya sido recibida en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. (hora vigente) el día de la elección. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito de lunes a viernes, excluyendo días festivos, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:30 p.m., hasta el día de la elección.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados podrán solicitar registrarse
como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar podrán presentar una solicitud para obtener una boleta militar. Los votantes militares podrán designar su preferencia para recibir el formulario de registro de votante militar, la solicitud de boleta militar o la boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico, en su solicitud de registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y las solicitudes de boletas militares deberán recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 24 de abril de 2026. Ninguna boleta militar será contabilizada a menos que: 1) Sea recibida en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de la elección y muestre un sello de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o muestre una constancia fechada de recepción por otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; 2) Sea recibida en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de la elección y esté firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que no sea posterior al día anterior a la elección.
TÓMESE NOTA ADEMÁS que la Junta de Educación convocará una reunión especial dentro de las veinticuatro horas posteriores a la presentación ante el Secretario del Distrito de un informe escrito con los resultados de la votación, con el propósito de examinar y tabular dichos informes de resultados y declarar el resultado de la votación. La Junta de Educación designa por la presente a sí misma como un conjunto de secretarios de mesa para emitir y escrutar las boletas conforme a la Ley de Educación, Sección 2019-a, subdivisión 2(b), en dicha reunión especial de la Junta.
Fechado: 2 de abril 2026
Por Orden de la Junta de Educación Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de Seaford Municipio de
Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York
Carmen T. Ouellette Secretaria del Distrito 159182
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTION AND PERSONAL REGISTRATION, LEVITTOWN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Annual Meeting of the School District, the vote on the School District budget and election of candidates for the School Board of Levittown Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, and the vote on the Public Library budget and election of a candidate for the Board of Trustees for the Levittown Public Library, will be held in the several election districts of the School District at the voting places designated below on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, to vote by ballot on voting machines on the proposition or propositions set forth below, as well as any other propositions which may properly come before the electorate, and to elect members of the Board of Education and to elect a member of the Library Board of Trustees. Shall the following resolutions be adopted:
PROPOSITION NO. 1 SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET
BE IT RESOLVED, that the School District budget for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027, as presented to the Board of Education, in the amount of $284,420,293 approved and the necessary taxes be levied therefore on the taxable real property of the district.
PROPOSITION NO. 2
EXPENDITURE OF THE 2023 CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND UNASSIGNED FUND BALANCE FOR SCHOOL BUILDING IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Levittown Union Free School District be hereby authorized to appropriate the balance of the District’s Reserve Funds as follows: 2023 Capital Reserve
in the amount of $4,600,000
In addition, the Board of Education is hereby authorized to appropriate up to the sum of $10,400,000 in unassigned fund balance. So that the total appropriation in an amount not to exceed $15,000,000 is hereby approved for purposes of performing school building improvement projects, including Districtwide electrical system upgrades; District-wide roof reconditioning and replacement; District-wide interior and exterior masonry restoration; District wide athletic facilities including the addition of restrooms at our high school athletic fields as well as playground reconstruction and indoor practice facilities; District-wide asbestos abatement projects; District-wide roadway reconstruction and site improvements; District-wide bathroom reconstruction; Districtwide instructional space renovations, and for any similar projects as contained in the District’s five year Capital Facilities Plan adopted by the Board of Education on March 25, 2026. Expenditures from the Capital Reserves will not increase the tax levy.
PROPOSITION NO. 3
LIBRARY BUDGET RESOLVED, that the Public Library Budget for the fiscal year 20262027 proposed by the Library Board of Trustees of the Levittown Public Library heretofore filed pursuant to law shall be approved and the necessary taxes be levied therefore on the taxable real property of the district.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education and for the office of member of the Library Board of Trustees must be filed with the District Clerk between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM Monday through Friday but no later than between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. on April 20, 2026. Forms of the petitions may be obtained from the District Clerk.
The following vacancies are to be filled on the Board of Education: Three (3) members each for the term of three (3) years, commencing July
1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2029.
A separate petition is required to nominate a candidate for member of the Board of Education. The three candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk, must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, or 2% of the voters who voted in the 2025 election, whichever is greater, and shall state the residence of each person who signed, must state the name and residence of the candidate and the length of the term of office. This year all nominating petitions must include 41 signatures.
The following vacancies are to be filled on the Library Board of Trustees: One (1) member for the term of five (5) years, commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2031.
A separate petition is required to nominate a candidate for member of the Library Board of Trustees. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be elected to the term which ends June 30, 2031. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk, must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, or 2% of the voters who voted in the 2025 election for members of the Library Board of Trustees, whichever is greater, and shall state the residence of each person who signed, must state the name and residence of the candidate and the length of the term of office. This year all nominating petitions must include 38 signatures.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a statement of estimated expenses for the 2026-2027 school year will be presented at a Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Board Meeting Room of the Levittown Memorial Education Center and copies of such statement, as well as the statement of the amount of money required for the 20262027 fiscal year of the Public Library, will be made available on the District’s website and at

each schoolhouse and library in the District during the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM on each day other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday during the fourteen (14) calendar days immediately preceding the election together with the text of any resolution which will be presented to the voters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, personal registration of voters is required and only those persons whose names appear on the register of the said school district, or who are registered pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law, shall be entitled to vote at said meeting and election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that all qualified voters who have previously registered for any annual or special meeting or election and have voted at any annual or special election held or conducted at any time within four (4) calendar years prior to this year are not required to register with the Board of Registration for this meeting.
All other persons who wish to vote must register. A voter may register at the office of the District Clerk of the Levittown UFSD between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM on school days provided that such registration is effected no later than May 14, 2026.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that said register will be filed in the office of the District Clerk and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election, except Sunday, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, on Monday through Friday and on Saturday May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment in the office of the District Clerk and at each voting place on the day of the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that absentee ballots for those eligible pursuant to the provision of Section 2018a of the Education Law are available, and that applications for absentee ballots may be applied for at the office of the District Clerk.
A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots have been issued will be available in the office of the Clerk on each of the five (5) calendar days prior to the day of election except Sunday, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on Monday through Friday and on Saturday May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment. in the office of the District Clerk. Such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) calendar days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or by the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. No absentee voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 PM on the day of the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 2018-e of the Education Law, applications for early mail ballots may be obtained at the Office of the District Clerk of the School District, during all days in which the School District is in session. Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 20, 2026 and by May 12, 2026, if the early mail ballot is to be mailed to the voter. If the early mail ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter at the Office of the District Clerk the completed application must be received by the District Clerk no later than May 18, 2026. No early mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the Office of the District Clerk of the School District no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026. A list of all persons to whom early ballots have been issued will be available in the Office of the District Clerk’s office during office hours on and after May 13, 2026 until May 19, 2026, except on Saturday May 16, 2026, by prearranged appointment. A challenge to an early voting ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an absentee ballot.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that during the voting hours on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, in the various election
districts, the Board of Registration will meet to receive registrations for subsequent elections. During the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM on voting days, the District Clerk shall be in her office at the Levittown Memorial Education Center, 150 Abbey Lane, Levittown, NY 11756.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law requires the District to attach to its proposed budget an Exemption Report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on the District’s website.
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Education Law §2018-d, Military Voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the District by submitting a Military Voter Registration Application to the District Clerk, no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. A copy of the Military Voter Registration Application is available both by contacting the District Clerk by email at vesposito@ levittownschools. com and online at the District’s website located at <http://www. levittownschools.com/>. Military voters who are qualified voters of the District may submit an application for a military ballot. A Military Voter is entitled to designate a preference to receive a Military Voter Registration Application, Military Ballot Application or Military Ballot by mail, facsimile or electronic mail. Such designation will remain in effect until revoked or changed by the voter. If no preference is designated, the District will transmit the Military Voter Registration Application, Military
Ballot Application or Military Ballot by mail. Military Voter Ballot Application forms must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. Military Ballots will not be canvassed unless they are received by the District Clerk on or before 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026.
SCHOOL ELECTION DISTRICTS:
The boundaries of the school election districts and the place of each election district for voting and registration shall be as follows:
ELECTION DISTRICT #1 - GARDINERS AVENUE SCHOOL
Beginning at Wantagh Parkway and Chase Lane; east on Chase Lane to Center Lane, thence south to Prairie Lane; thence east to Gardiners Avenue; thence south to Slate Lane; then east and north to Swan Lane; then east and north to Grey Lane; continuing east to Wantagh Avenue; thence south on Wantagh Avenue to Jerusalem Avenue; thence west to Oakfield Avenue; continuing north to Old Jerusalem Road; thence east on Old Jerusalem Road to Wantagh Parkway Line; north along Line to the point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #2 - EAST BROADWAY SCHOOL
Beginning at north side of Southern State Parkway and east side of Wantagh Avenue; north on Wantagh to Miller Place; thence east to Exit Lane; thence south to Elm Drive; thence west to Elbow Lane; thence southwest to End Lane; south to End Lane and Elm Drive East to Pope Street; thence east to District Line; thence south to Regent Lane; thence east to Red Maple Drive; thence northeast, and south to Regal Lane; east on Regal Lane and Cordwood Lane to Arlington Drive; thence southeast to Town Line; thence south to Southern State Parkway; west along Parkway to point of beginning. Beginning at south side of Southern State Parkway and west side of Town Line; south on Town Line to Jerusalem Avenue; thence west to Wantagh Avenue; thence north to Southern State Parkway; thence east to point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #3LEVITTOWN MEMORIAL EDUCATION CENTER
Beginning at east side of Wantagh Parkway and south side of Hempstead Turnpike; east on Hempstead Turnpike to Silver Lane; thence south to Forge Lane; thence east to Cotton Lane; thence southeasterly to Wantagh Avenue; then south to Grey Lane; thence west to Swan Lane; then southwesterly to Slate Lane; then south to Gardiners Avenue, thence north to Prairie Lane; thence west to Center Lane; thence north to Chase Lane; thence west to Wantagh Parkway Line; north along Line to point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #4DIVISION AVENUE HIGH SCHOOL
Beginning at north side of Hempstead Turnpike and west side of Jerusalem Avenue; west on Hempstead Turnpike to District Boundary Line at Wantagh State Parkway; thence northeast to northerly border of School District; east on Boundary Line (Flamingo Rd., Magpie Lane, Blacksmith Rd) to Jerusalem Avenue; thence south to point of beginning.
Dated: Levittown, New York March 2026
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION LEVITTOWN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK 159201
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST WALTER FUNG-A-FAT AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF JOANNE FUNG-A-FAT, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JO-ANNE FUNG-A-FAT AKA JO ANNE FUNG A FAT IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO
PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OF SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 15, 2026, 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 April 13, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 2656 Ocean Avenue, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau at Seaford, State of New York, Section 63 Block 45 Lots 398-401. Approximate amount of judgment $88,490.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #618125/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Richard M. Langone, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003490 88994 158774
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 04/15/2026 at 9:30
A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30
A.M.
190/26. - 193/26. SEAFORD - Jason & Christina Collichio, Maintain pool equipment not permitted in side yard & maintain 6’ high pool enclosure larger than pool installation area & forward of the dwelling on Darby La.; Special exception to maintain accessory structure (outdoor kitchen) exceeding horizontal maximum, not permitted in the front yard & forward of dwelling on Darby La., with rear yard and side yard variances; Special exception to maintain 2nd accessory structure (shed with bar), exceeding horizontal maximum, not permitted in the front yard & forward of the dwelling on Darby La., with rear yard and side yard variances; Variance, front yard setback on Nancy La., maintain two (2) A/C units., S/W cor. Darby La. & Nancy La., a/k/a 4034 Darby La. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Seaford within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals
The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the
call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.
159248
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 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST MARK VAUGHAN, CASEY VAUGHAN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 8, 2020, and amended June 25, 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 April 30, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 3982 Kingsberry Road, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Plainedge-Wantagh, partly in the Town of Oyster Bay and partly in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 52, Block 450, Lot 19A & 19B. Approximate amount of judgment $433,510.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008440/2015. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-000890 89358 159190






Help Wanted
Building Maintenance
Assistant and Porter needed for Management Co. in Long Beach Experience Preferred Email: humanresoures5771 @gmail.com or Call: (212) 873-7575
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour.
For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com
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
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$22 - $27/ Hour
Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
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 from $17 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 $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTED $20 - $25 Per Hour Must Be Available On Weekends April - June 516-902-6258 Randy@LISNYC.com
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT


Q. We own a home in Boston that needs a lot of work, and were wondering what to do about hiring an architect. We want to hire one who is familiar with the area, the codes and the building department, because we understand they are very strict there. We have a local friend who’s an architect, and he has gotten his “reciprocal” license in Massachusetts. How do you think we should handle this? Should we work with our friend, Zoom with a local architect or have them try to work together?
A. This is not an uncommon problem, but it’s all based on communication, as is most of what we deal with in our daily lives. It’s best to weigh the issues of how the communication will work, including the making of the plans, which are also the basis for your project and the most important communication tool.

Ronnie.Gerber@elliman.com Douglas Elliman 2300


Over the years I’ve seen where clients didn’t take the planning process seriously, thinking, and even saying, that they just want to get the permit to start the work. That approach generally leads to failure, with either the owner not getting what they want or causing problems along the way. For example, many people assume that the plans are a suggestion, a kind of open guide to the approximate outcome, and that they will just handle changes for what they really wanted during construction.
One recent client, who didn’t last very long, was in another city and, being in the medical field, said we could do Zoom meetings like they do in tele-health. Conversations fell apart immediately, because the building has major structural deterioration, and on my first walk-through, I had to order column supports to be installed immediately where collapse was imminent. The owner was told this, and that, at the very least, building plans would be absolutely necessary, detailing the exact remedy. But in order to prepare the structural plans, measuring of the building areas contributing loads and further investigation were necessary. The owner got very upset, because his contractor was ready to go and just needed to know what to do.
Having made medical appointments over the years to get one test in a particular hospital, and then shuttling to another site for another test, I realized this client just didn’t get it. His profession required all kinds of very specific testing, and his perception was that mine did not. Buildings are custom. They’re not kits. There are many ways that buildings, even homes, can fail, and we always want to prevent leaking, movement and subsequent damage, in addition to wanting to make the spaces function and be attractive. I would recommend working with your friend, and having him develop an agreement and relationship with the local professional who knows the area best, if possible. Otherwise I would work with the local professional, but arrange for in-person meetings. With issues and questions that happen during construction, you want a good team of people you can trust. Good luck!



















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With my second term as county executive underway, I’m proud to say that Nassau County’s future is bright. Like my first term, these coming years will be defined by a strong commitment to public safety, excellent economic growth that increases affordability for our residents, and expanded opportunities for business owners that will benefit everyone.

Growing our economy remains a top focus for my administration. After canceling a $150 million tax hike in my first year in office, I have not raised taxes for four consecutive years — a promise that I will keep in this year’s budget. Through smart financial management, we have earned an unprecedented seven bond upgrades and have been cited by Democratic State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli as a county with no fiscal stress. Our local businesses are thriving, with minority- and women-owned business certifications increasing by 40 percent last year alone — a number I hope to
Araise even higher in 2026 and beyond.
Positive economic activity lets us invest in initiatives that matter to residents. We’ve restored local historical sites like the Roslyn Grist Mill, invested in cultural centers like the Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum, in Hempstead, and upgraded local community hubs like Centennial Park, in Roosevelt. These are testaments to how a well-run government can provide for all of its residents.
since taking office, with more to come. We opened the state-of-the-art Harry Singh Bolla Police Training Village to give all of our officers, new and old, cutting-edge training to ensure that Nassau County remains a leader in public safety.
We’re focused on public safety, economic growth and business opportunities.
I’m proud to report that Nassau County remains the safest county in the United States, a distinction we owe to the courageous men and women of the Nassau County Police Department, the Corrections Department, the Probation Department, the Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office. These dedicated professionals — along with emergency services personnel like our firefighters, EMS workers and fire marshals — work tirelessly for our security, and we cannot thank them enough.
My administration recognizes the importance of investing in public safety efforts. I’ve authorized the hiring of 600 new police and corrections officers
During my time in office, our emergency services staff has also grown, with more than 1,000 residents signing up to become volunteer firefighters. This year’s budget will expand the number of fire marshals and dispatchers, ensuring that we are prepared for anything that comes our way.
The good news is that our initiatives are already paying off. Major crimes have fallen by more than 10 percent in the past year, with huge declines in serious crimes like murder, rape, assault and robbery. In 2025 our police executed the largest drug bust and gang takedown in county history. Major investments in our battle to alleviate the opioid crisis led to a drop of more than 16 percent in overdose deaths last year. These results speak for themselves, and show that our policies are working.
My administration has also taken steps to protect our religious freedoms.
I recently signed a new law that prevents protesters from targeting churches, synagogues and mosques. Nassau County will always stand for the safety and rights of everyone who practices their religion here.
Our stance on immigration enforcement remains firm: Nassau County is not a sanctuary county. Collaborating with our federal partners has helped us remove dangerous and illegal criminals from our streets — many of whom come from known gangs like MS-13, the 18th Street Gang and the Trinitarios. I want to reiterate that all of our enforcement actions are targeted at criminals, not honest and hardworking people who enrich our communities. My administration is continuing to work on a guest-worker program to support law-abiding immigrants, many of whom are pillars of our business community.
Even as we continue to build on our successes, I know that there’s a lot of work ahead to keep us moving in the right direction, but my commitment to making Nassau County the safest, most affordable and healthiest place to live, work and raise a family remains strong. Thank you for helping to make us the best place to live in all of New York.
Bruce Blakeman is the Nassau County executive.
s deputy managing editor of Herald Community Newspapers, I am privileged to work alongside a staff of honest and creative reporters and editors who deliver the local news that you’re used to receiving. They embody what it means to be a strong journalist, acting with integrity and passion, which is reflected in every story we write and share with the communities that we love to cover.

The ethos I’m describing embodies the pillars of American journalism — a press that thrives on freedom and a drive to seek the truth and report it.
Many of my former colleagues — my good friends — have moved on from their time with the Herald to apply that passion in other media circuits, delivering more, albeit different, news to readers close to home and nationally, too. In a media climate so polarized, where it may feel difficult to decipher right from wrong and the truth from exaggerations, it’s important to remember that we are privileged to live in a
country where we can ask questions. We can challenge what we’re told. We can yearn for more than what appears in black and white.
A few weeks ago, I attended the 2026
Marie Colvin Distinguished Lecture at Stony Brook University, hosted by the school’s Marie Colvin Center for International Reporting. The center was established in memory of Colvin, a fearless war correspondent who was raised on Long Island and died on the front lines of the Syrian civil war in 2012.
T his work matters, and we must never take our freedoms for granted.
The featured speaker was Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian politician and journalist who was arrested in Moscow in 2022 and sentenced to 25 years in prison for “high treason” for opposing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Kara-Murza spent over two years in prison, including 11 months in solitary confinement. His release in 2024 was orchestrated by the Biden administration, and part of the largest prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Russia since the Cold War.
For the writing he completed while in prison, Kara-Murza was awarded the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Commentary.
He was the type of speaker who drew you in from the start, painting a bleak
picture of what it’s like to be a journalist in Russia, a place where independent media voices have been not only silenced but directly targeted for telling the truth. He named fellow writers — many of them friends — who were killed by the Russian government. Kara-Murza himself has survived two suspected poisonings in the past decade, marked for his relentless, fearless, truthful reporting. His opening thoughts captivated me. “There’s nothing dictatorships hate more than the truth,” he said, “and the first targets in that quest for absolute power are usually, almost always, independent media voices.”
In Russia, the press is never protected. In the U.S., by contrast, federal courts usually appear committed to upholding the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech. Just two weeks ago, federal courts ruled that the Pentagon’s newly implemented press policy, which bars news outlets from reporting information not officially sanctioned for release, is a violation of the amendment. U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman wrote in his ruling that it was “more important than ever that the public have access to information from a variety of perspec-
tives about what the government is doing.” That, in essence, makes good journalism possible.
Kara-Murza made it clear that a democracy thrives only when its people put forth the effort to sustain it. He invoked Ben Franklin’s reminder that the United States was founded as “a republic, if you can keep it”— which resonates with renewed urgency.
I became a journalist because I love to write. I’m committed to upholding the values I believe in so strongly. Like my Herald colleagues, I love telling your stories, and I love diving into the important topics I believe you, our readers, deserve to know about.
I can’t say that I’m as courageous as Vladimir Kara-Murza, who embodies everything journalists should hope to be — fearless, principled, and unwavering in the pursuit of truth. But his story reminds me why this work matters, and why we must never take our freedoms for granted. Every day that we can report honestly, ask challenging questions, and share your stories is a privilege — one I never intend to lose sight of.
Jordan Vallone, the deputy managing editor of Herald Community Newspapers, is a graduate student in Stony Brook University’s School of Communications and Journalism. Comments? jvallone@liherald.com.
oFFiCe
2 Endo Boulevard
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: www.liherald.com
E-mail: seafordeditor@liherald.com
oFFiCiAL
New York’s housing crisis is undeniable. Rents are high, supply is tight and too many families are struggling to find a place to call home.
In response, Albany is advancing proposals like the REVIVE Act alongside Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Let Them Build agenda — efforts designed to cut red tape and accelerate development.
The goal is right. The challenge is getting the approach right, too. At the heart of the debate is a familiar tension: how to build faster without sacrificing thoughtful planning and public trust.
It’s not just about process; it’s about trust. Residents are more likely to support new housing when they believe their voices are heard. Developers are more likely to invest when rules are consistent. And elected officials are more effective when they can balance urgency with accountability.
Supporters of reform make a compelling case. New York’s development process is notoriously slow and expensive. Reviews under the State Environmental Quality Review Act can stretch timelines by years, even for projects that ultimately pose little or no environmental risk.
According to state data, projects can take up to 56 percent longer to start compared with other states, and cost up to $45,000 per unit on Long Island. Those costs are usually passed on to renters and buyers. In a state where affordability is already a crisis, those inefficiencies matter.
The REVIVE Act seeks to address this by targeting underused commercial properties — shopping centers, office
To the Editor:
parks and large parking lots — and encouraging their conversion into housing. In concept, this is smart policy. Repurposing dormant or declining properties into vibrant residential communities can ease the housing shortage while revitalizing local economies.
But the concerns raised by local officials and residents are just as valid. Critics argue that the legislation could sideline local zoning authority, limit public hearings and reduce meaningful community input.
The inclusion of a “deemed approved” provision — allowing projects to move forward automatically if municipalities fail to act within an expedited timeline — is a flashpoint.
One side says projects would move forward without public hearings or meaningful community input. That might overstate the case, but it isn’t entirely off base. The proposal appears to compress timelines and shift leverage away from local governments. If those timelines are too tight, or if municipalities lack the resources to review complex proposals quickly, the result could be approvals by default rather than by design.
And what about the timeline itself? That remains a critical detail. Without clear and reasonable deadlines, “expedited” can quickly become “unworkable.” Municipal boards might need additional support to operate on stateimposed clocks. If they are rushed, oversight suffers. If they miss deadlines, community members may feel that decisions are being made for them, not with them.
Yet it would be a mistake to dismiss
With all the rhetoric being bandied about over the war in the Middle East, I would like to add something that rarely seems to enter into the discussion. That is the size of the various sides. My source is the 2025 World Almanac.
Israel has an area of approximately 8,470 square miles, which is about the size of the state of New Jersey. The West Bank and Gaza have a combined area of about 2,402 square miles, which is about the size of the city of Detroit and the state of Delaware.
The area of Israel’s near neighbors — Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon — is just over 1.3 million square miles, or about one-third the size of the United States.
The population of Israel is just over 9.4 million. The population of the West Bank and Gaza is just
the need for reform altogether. Doing nothing is not an option. The current system is too slow, too costly and too unpredictable. Developers face uncertainty and communities can miss opportunities.
The answer lies not in choosing sides, but in combining the best ideas from both. New York should streamline environmental review for projects that consistently demonstrate minimal impact, particularly those on previously developed sites. It should set clear, enforceable timelines for decisions.
Those timelines, however, must be realistic, and paired with resources, training and technical assistance for local governments. The state’s proposal to modernize permitting and create a “permitting academy” is a step in the right direction.
At the same time, local decision-making must be preserved. Communities deserve a voice in shaping their neighborhoods, especially when it comes to density, infrastructure and quality of life. Public hearings should not be eliminated, but they can be made more efficient and focused.
If “deemed approved” provisions are included, they must come with safeguards: flexibility for municipalities acting in good faith, transparency in the review process and mechanisms to ensure that projects meet clear standards before moving forward.
New York doesn’t need a rushed solution. It needs a smart one. Albany has an opportunity to get this right. By blending efficiency with oversight, and speed with community input, lawmakers can craft a housing policy that works for all.

For years, my son cody and I were known in court papers only by our initials. Today I am using my full name — as a Long Island mother, a family peer advocate and one of the formerly anonymous plaintiffs in c.K. v. McDonald. I joined this class action lawsuit to challenge new york state’s widespread failure to provide mental health services to children on Medicaid.

In January, a federal judge approved a settlement, and the state agreed to dramatically improve access to these services. It’s a measure of justice, but it is incomplete without investments in the struggling nonprofit providers who deliver this vital care to kids like cody.
cody needed help almost from the moment he entered this world. I worked as an early childhood educator, and I recognized the signs. By age 3, he was diagnosed with ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder and severe social anxiety; at 4 he was psychiatrically hospitalized. He struggled to function in school. From ages 10 to 12 he was in a residential treatment center, where he finally
under 5.4 million. The population of Israel’s near neighbors is 188.2 million. As a reference, the population of the United States is nearly 342 million.
There are rights and wrongs on both sides, but the constant drive to destroy Israel is not the correct solution to these issues.
LAwrence Levy Rockville Centre
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began to thrive. In 2019 cody was discharged and came home. He was supposed to receive home- and community-based mental health services to give him the tools to re-integrate. He was entitled to at-home therapy to manage his emotions, as well as crisis respite services — an alternative to hospitalization to provide stability during crises.
He received care through Medicaid, its access guaranteed by federal law. But the reality was different: Providers changed constantly, programs had waitlists and services disappeared without explanation.
wcate, I saw the chronic understaffing, the underfunding, and the burnout.
e can’t afford to continue neglecting the services our children need.
without consistent, medically necessary services, cody couldn’t handle the transition to home, and while lingering on waitlists, he had his first suicide attempt.
All the while, I was working inside the system. I took a job with wellLife network, a nonprofit mental health provider, as a supervisor of communitybased services and a family peer advocate. These advocates are an indispensable component of our behavioral health system. we provide care as parents of children with mental health issues. As such, we are trusted messengers when offering services like skill development. But working as an advo-
I knew that the system was failing, even as my family lived it personally. And we aren’t alone. Across the state, three in four Medicaid-eligible children who need outpatient behavioral health services are not receiving them. The disparities are similar on Long Island, and grow worse the closer you look. eighty-five percent of Medicaid-eligible children in our area are not receiving the outpatient clinical services they need, and nearly 500 more practitioners are needed to fill the gap.
without an investment for providers to expand services, children will lose out on programs that stabilize them before a crisis lands them in the hospital, or in handcuffs. we cannot afford to continue neglecting these services. Medicaid reimbursement rates for them have stagnated, even as costs have risen. nonprofit providers can’t pay competitive wages. Staff leave, caseloads grow, and some programs stop offering Medicaid services altogether.
I joined that lawsuit because I was fed up with a broken system. Alongside three other families, we charged that new york was violating Medicaid law by failing to provide required communi-
Framework by Tim Baker
ty-based services. As part of the settlement, new york must review long-inadequate Medicaid reimbursement rates to improve services. But the settlement gives the state a yearslong runway, and families can’t wait for reform.
If new york is serious about meeting both its legal and moral responsibilities, lawmakers must act this budget season. Providers across the state are calling for a $200 million investment to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for children’s behavioral health services.
Unfortunately, the governor’s and the State Senate’s proposed budgets do not include new resources. The Assembly did include $20 million to improve reimbursement rates, but that is far short of the support that is needed.
without investment, the promises in the settlement risk becoming hollow. It may be too late to give my son back the years he lost, but it doesn’t have to be too late for others.
every child on Long Island and across the state deserves timely mental health care in their home and community. The settlement made clear that new york falls short. now our lawmakers must make the investment necessary to turn that legal victory into real change for families like mine.
Christina Hauptman is a family peer advocate and a New York state peer specialist on the Intensive and Sustained Engagement Team at Hands Across Long Island.










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