Brian Kacharaba/Herald
The strike by Long Island Rail Road workers entered its third, and what turned out to be its final, day on Monday, leaving Wantagh and Seaford commuters, and scores of thousands of daily riders across the region, facing a weekday shutdown of service.
By HUNTER FENOLLOL hfenollol@liherald.com
The three-day Long Island Rail Road strike ended late Monday after five unions and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority reached a tentative agreement following several days of negotiations, officials announced at an evening news conference.
Union and MTA representatives announced the deal after negotiations resumed in the afternoon and continued into the night, ending the work stoppage that had halted service and caused widespread travel disruptions across Long Island and in New York City, including for commuters in Wantagh and Seaford who rely heavily on the Babylon Branch.
“We have good news tonight,” Kevin Sexton, vice president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and spokesman for the Long Island Railroad Bargaining Coalition, said. “We’re pleased to announce that the parties have reached an agreement.”
Sexton said that details of the agreement would not be released immediately, citing the need for member review ahead of ratification votes. However, public radio station WYNC reported that the four-year deal includes retroactive pay and expires in July 2027.
“Due to the nature of the negotiations, we cannot discuss the specifics,” he said. “What I can say is we are looking forward to our members getting back to work and doing what they
By HUNTER FENOLLOL hfenollol@liherald.com
Seaford and Levittown residents approved their school district budgets and elected board of education candidates on Tuesday.
In Seaford, voters approved the district’s $86.3 million spending plan for the 2026-27 school year by a vote of 784 to 270. The budget is 1.42 percent larger than the current spending plan, and includes a 2.26 percent increase in the tax levy, which, according to district officials, is below the state tax cap.
District officials said the budget supports expanded academic programming, technology upgrades, social-emotional learning initiatives and facility improvements throughout the district. Planned capital projects include middle school bathroom renovations, replacement of gymnasium windows and the creation of an outdoor learning space at Seaford High School.
In the Board of Education election, incumbent Trustees
Jeqyoung “Jimmy” Chwe and Trisha Matulewicz were reelected with 674 and 639 votes, respectively.
In Levittown, residents approved the district’s $284.4 million budget by a count of 1,156 to 610. The spending plan is 3.76 percent larger than the current budget and includes a 1.98 percent tax levy increase, which is within the district’s tax-cap limit.
District officials said the proposed budget maintains staffing and programs while funding instructional upgrades and new course offerings.
Voters also approved a capital reserve expenditure referendum by a large margin, 1,231 to 453.
Incumbent Levittown Board of Education Trustees Jennifer Messina and Phyllis Dalton were re-elected, alongside newcomer Daniel Larkin. Messina received 1,137 votes, Dalton earned 1,087 and Larkin received 1,070. Challenger Anne Marie Guerra received 639 votes.
do best, which is serving the region.”
He added that any premature disclosure of details could complicate ratification.
“We don’t want to fail ratification,” Sexton said. “If they get part of this story through the media, it may impact their decision.”
The agreement is subject to a 30-day period in which union members will review and vote on the tentative deal before it becomes official.
The shutdown began after five railroad unions went on strike at 12:01 a.m. Saturday following the expiration of a federally mandated cooling-off period. The work stoppage led to widespread delays across Long Island, with shuttle buses operating on limited routes and commuters urged to work remotely where possible.
For many South Shore commuters, the strike highlighted how dependent communities like Wantagh and Seaford are on the Long Island Rail Road for access to jobs in New York City and Queens.
“Tuesday I can work from home, but not after that,” Want-
agh commuter Joann Pizzaia said earlier during the strike. “I’m trying to figure out how to get to Queens to get a subway.”
Pizzaia, who said she relies on the LIRR five days a week, estimated her commute could increase by as much as two hours without train service. She also criticized the lack of shuttle bus access along the Babylon Branch.
“There are no buses on the South Shore for some of the busiest areas from Bellmore and Wantagh through Babylon,” she said. “Where are we going to park?”
Wantagh resident Tara McDevitt Schwartz said the strike added to frustrations many riders already have regarding service reliability and fare increases.
“The jump in ticket prices in the last three years is ridiculous,” Schwartz said. “These people are already the highest paid in the country.”
Schwartz, who commutes from Wantagh to Grand Central several days each week, also pointed to existing service concerns that predated the strike.
“It’s already a joke that there is no direct train from Wantagh
The last time the Long Island Rail Road was idled by a strike was 32 years ago — but that one lasted only two days.
to Grand Central between 8:09 and 9:41,” she said. “Trains are always late. I have the ability to work from home if necessary, but many people do not.”
Sexton said that tensions escalated late in the negotiations on Friday night, when the MTA introduced proposed health care contributions for newly hired employees, an issue he said had not previously been part of bargaining discussions.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said the agreement was reached after continued bargaining focused on balancing worker pay with affordability for commuters and taxpayers.
“I’m truly pleased to share that the five Long Island Rail Road unions and the MTA were able to come together and reach a fair deal this evening,” Hochul said. “The contract achieved two principles: protecting affordabil-
ity for Long Islanders and commuters while giving fair wages to the employees.”
Officials said that the LIRR would begin restoring service in phases starting Tuesday at noon, with limited hourly service on four main branches before expanding systemwide service later in the day. The MTA said the contingency bus service operating during the shutdown would continue Tuesday morning before being phased out as train service ramped up.
Hochul said that roughly 3,500 LIRR employees would receive raises under the agreement, while fare and tax increases would not be part of the deal.
“At a time when everything is going up, I’m not going to allow taxes or fares to go up,” Hochul said. “Period. Full stop. Got it done.”
Officials said additional details on full system restoration were expected as crews completed inspections, repositioned equipment and returned employees to scheduled assignments.
It was the first Long Island Rail Road strike since June 17, 1994. That strike lasted two days before a contract settlement was reached.
As part of National Safe Boating Week, observed May 16 through May 22, the Town of Hempstead is reminding residents that safety is paramount when enjoying local waterways.
The town’s Bay Constables will conduct free vessel safety checks on Saturday May 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Curtis E. Fisher Wet Marina boat ramp.
The inspections are designed to confirm that required safety equipment is onboard and operating properly before the busy summer boating season begins. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling (516) 897-4100.
Town officials said the program is intended to support National Safe Boating Week by giving residents an opportunity to ensure their vessels are fully prepared before heading out on the water.
“Our Bay Constables play a vital role in protecting those who enjoy our bays and waterways, and these checks are a simple step that can make a significant difference in protecting you and your loved ones,” Supervisor John Ferretti said in a statement.
During the inspection, Bay Constables will review safety items such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, navigation lights, sound-producing devices and registration documentation. Boaters will also have the opportunity to ask questions and receive
of the Town Bay Constables, Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby, Supervisor John Ferretti, Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr.
guidance on best practices for safe and responsible navigation.
In addition to vessel safety checks, the Town of Hempstead has made it easier for residents to meet state boating requirements by providing free boater safety courses. Under New York State’s Brianna’s Law, all operators of motorized watercraft must complete a certified safety course.
“Boating is one of the many great recreational opportunities we have here in the Town of Hempstead,” added Supervisor Ferretti. “Taking a few minutes for a safety check helps ensure that every trip on the water is a safe and enjoyable one for you, your family and others around you,”
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Nassau County’s free summer entertainment series is returning with concerts, movie nights and international celebrations at Eisenhower Park and parks across the county.
The 2026 Nassau County Free Summer Fun Guide, presented by County Executive Bruce Blakeman and the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums, features live music, family-friendly movies and cultural events throughout the summer. Most Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre concerts at Eisenhower Park begin at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.
“Enjoy live music and family-friendly movies under the stars at Eisenhower Park’s Lakeside Theatre and parks across Nassau County,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman wrote. “Join us all summer long for unforgettable nights of entertainment.”
Some of the biggest names on the schedule include Cole Swindell on Friday, Aug. 7; Loud Luxury on Friday, Aug. 21; Flo Rida on Monday, Aug. 31; ZZ Top on Tuesday, Sept. 1; The Lords of 52nd Street on Thursday, Sept. 3; and Los Lobos on Friday, Sept. 4.
The Lakeside Theatre lineup also includes Fun Lovin’ Criminals and Blessid Union of Souls on Sunday, June 7; a freestyle and salsa night featuring Brenda K. Starr, Tito Puente Jr., TKA/K7, Joey Cruz, La Sonora 495 and Forever Freestyle Band on Saturday, June 27; and reggae night with Inner Circle, Wayne Wonder and IRIEspect on Sunday, June 28.
Dozens of additional shows will take to the stage throughout the duration of the summer.
A Celebrate America fireworks and drone show is scheduled for Thursday, July 2, at 5:30 p.m., with live music by Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom
Baker/Herald file
The Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre at Eisenhower Park will host concerts and celebrations all summer long. Above, Don Felder on stage during a previous show.
Rock. The rain date is Friday, July 3.
Families will have several options beyond concerts. Movie nights at Eisenhower Park include “Elio,” “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” “A Minecraft Movie,” “Bad Guys 2,” “Zootopia 2,” “Freakier Friday,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Wicked” and “Wicked for Good.” Movies begin at dusk.
International Nights at Lakeside will celebrate a range of cultures, including Ukrainian American, Indian American, Israeli American, Greek American, German American, Creole American, Italian American,
Caribbean, Irish American, Bangladeshi American, Pakistan American, African American, Chinese American, Turkish American, Korean American and Latino American nights.
Neighborhood concerts and movie nights will also be held at Wantagh Park, Cedar Creek Park, Grant Park and North Woodmere Park. The county will also offer noontime concerts Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m. at Eisenhower Park’s mobile stage near Field 1.
For updates, call Nassau County Parks at (516) 5720200 or visit NassauCountyNY.gov/parks.
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Subtitled “The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half”, this book reflects the natural progression of our desire to increase our lifespan (the number of our years), to increasing our healthspan (the number of our healthy years), to increasing our joyspan (the number of our joyful years). The author defines joy as an inner feeling of well-being or contentment, as opposed to happiness, which comes and goes, often according to external circumstances.
Burnight writes, “To thrive in old age means to live a fulfilling, purposeful, and satisfying life despite the challenges of aging. It involves maximizing physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, social connections, and a sense of meaning. Thriving doesn’t mean being free of all health problems or challenges, rather, it emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the ability to find joy and value in life.”
Research shows that those who thrive late in life:
Grow: They continue to explore and expand
Connect: They put time into new and existing relationships
In celebration of Mother’s Day, students throughout Seaford Harbor Elementary School took part in a variety of heartfelt activities to honor the special women in their lives. Classrooms were filled with creativity while the gymnasium was transformed into a shopping paradise.
Adapt: They adjust to changing and challenging circumstances
Give: They share themselves
As a Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Dr. Burnight was struck by the radical difference in how people experienced their own aging process. “For some it is a frustrating, degrading, painful trajectory of ever-increasing decline. For others, there is visible delight, spirituality, and joy in occupying their eighth, ninth, and tenth decades.”
The thieves of joy are (1) comparison with others (2) frustration with health and mobility limitations (3) feeling like you are a burden (4) feeling heartbroken over the loss of a loved one, and (5) feeling defeated as if your best days are behind you. Nevertheless, she says, “Like the sun, joy is always there. But when it’s hidden by clouds, we mistakenly say it’s gone. Joy is resilient and can break through the clouds because it’s an innate part of the human experience.”
“One might say that following this doctor’s prescription will increase your “joyspan” and decrease your “oyspan”!
Brooke DeSanto’s kindergartners made several handmade gifts including a paper flowerpot craft with their handprints and fingerprints, and “All About My Mom” books. Students also created coasters featuring drawings of themselves doing a favorite activity with their mothers, then used mod podge to waterproof their projects.
In Nancy Prefer’s third grade class,
Lstudents planted wildflowers ahead of Mother’s Day, so they would begin to sprout by the time they were brought home as a gift. Children made sure the plants had adequate sunlight and water as they cared for them for about a week. As the final step, they tied ribbons around the flowerpots.
All students at Harbor got to stop by the Ladies Sale on May 8, which was organized by the PTA. Students got to shop for their mothers, grandmothers and other loved ones, browsing through tables of items like bath and body products, gardening tools, jewelry, magnets, mugs and pillows.
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
By ISABELLA SIMONE Special to the Herald
More than 200 people ran towards change on April 25 at Belmont Lake State Park, demonstrating a powerful community effort.
Participants gathered for the Second Annual Milo’s 5K for the Homeless, which aimed to raise awareness for the thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness who often have to give up their pets. With most shelters unable to accommodate animals, these people are often forced to choose between their own safety and staying with their loyal companions--an extremely difficult decision no one should have to make. This issue has transformed compassion into action and created an event that shed a light on those navigating such conditions.
Kaitlyn Beers, the community engagement specialist for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, said that the event was “a team effort,” driven by a shared commitment to addressing a critical gap in support. She explained the heartbreaking decisions many homeless people have to face.
“Most shelters in general don’t allow pets in them, so people often have to decide between entering the shelter or taking their pets with them, and so people will decide to live in their cars, or they’ll live on the street,” she said.
For Beers and her team, the goal is to shift public perception and highlight the urgency of the issue, emphasizing that homelessness is immediate and local. “It’s not this kind of mythic thing. It’s right in our backyards,” she said.
Dylan Schwarz is both speedy and philanthropic. As the winner of the 5K and a member of the coalition, Schwarz echoed a similar sentiment to Beers.
“I think it’s important to get the word out there as much as possible about the struggles that so many in our community are facing. A lot of them we don’t even know about, because it’s hidden,” he said.
Schwarz said he wore face paint and “tried to dress a little goofy to try to make people smile a little extra.”
But the mission is clear to Schwarz. “Anything we can do to raise funds and raise awareness makes a difference,” he said.
Beers noted that this race is only the beginning of a growing tradition.
“This is our second race, so we did one last year, but we’re going to kind of continue it every year to rebuild the community,” she said.
When asked about the most fulfilling aspect of her playing a vital role in this event, Beers said, “I think a lot of people are very disconnected from some people, and seeing everybody rallying together for the same cause, coming here, having fun and just living life and kind of supporting each other, supporting our neighbors, and not letting this kind of crazy world that we’re living in ruin our fun and ruin our joy.”
Isabella Simone is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
Sitting among an audience of about 120 people at Wantagh High School on May 7 were 17 educators celebrating a milestone moment. One by one they were called up, received a yellow flower from Superintendent John McNamara and took in the applause.
The district’s annual tenure celebration honored 13 faulty members and four administrators who successfully completed their probationary periods. Mr. McNamara noted that it was the largest group to receive tenure at once in his decade plus in the Wantagh.
“This is such an important milestone,” he said. “It’s a long process – four years. We have extremely high expectations here in terms of staff. I have to confidently say to the board of education that these are educators we want to invest in for potentially 30 years. I can’t be more confident in
this group.”
Mr. McNamara spoke for a few minutes about each tenure candidate. For the 13 faculty members, which included teachers, psychologists, social workers and speech therapists, he noted their growth over the past four years, involvement in the school community and connections with children.
The administrators receiving tenure, Mr. McNamara noted, bring great knowledge to the district, are a tremendous resource for staff, are highly professional, successfully implement new initiatives and do the “little things” that often go unnoticed. Tenure for all 17 candidates was made official at the board of education meeting that followed the reception.
This year’s tenure recipients are:
Jessica Akapnitis, kindergarten teacher, Forest Lake Elementary School.
Melissa Beckler, social studies teacher, Wantagh Middle School.
Emily Bogart, psychologist, Forest Lake.
Thomas Brody, orchestra teacher, middle school.
James Brostowski, physical education teacher, Wantagh Elementary School.
Thomas Burke, principal, Forest Lake.
Maura Lachance, supervisor of special education.
Mackenzie Maloney, special education and reading teacher, Mandalay Elementary School.
Emily McCann, speech therapist, Mandalay Elementary School.
Karen Pass, reading teacher, Wantagh Elementary.
Rachel Quattrocchi, assistant principal, middle school.
Nicholas Roberts, math teacher, Wantagh High School.
Jaclyn Rossi, reading teacher, Forest Lake and Wantagh Elementary.
Nicole Silvar, fifth grade teacher, Forest Lake Elementary School.
Erin Smith, social worker, middle school.
Tara Sottnik, second grade teacher, Forest Lake.
Carol-Ann Winans, executive director for curriculum and instruction K-12.
By ALLYSON FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com
Adelphi University has named Michael Balboni, a former state lawmaker and a longtime public servant, as its 11th president.
Balboni, who will take office June 1, is the first Adelphi graduate, the first Adelphi parent and the first Long Island native to lead the Garden City university. He succeeds Interim President Christopher K. Storm Jr., who will move into the newly created role of senior executive vice president of academic affairs and provost. Christine M. Riordan was Adelphi’s 10th president.
“This transition is a homecoming for me, a true full-circle moment,” Balboni said. “Because I know Adelphi from almost every possible angle, I have an intimate understanding of the DNA of this university and the transformative power of the education it provides.”
Balboni graduated cum laude from Adelphi in 1981 with a degree in biology, and has remained closely connected to the university, including as an adjunct faculty member and, most recently, as chair of the board of trustees. He built a career in law, government and public safety, serving in the Assembly and State Senate and later as New York’s deputy secretary for public safety.
Balboni said he plans to serve as Adelphi’s “chief external advocate,” using his experience in government, law and public policy to raise the university’s profile, expand partnerships and pursue new funding.
“I plan to leverage my professional network and my knowledge of the legislative landscapes in Albany and Washington, D.C., to elevate our institutional visibility,” he said.
He added that he will pursue state and federal grants, build corporate partnerships and work to raise Adelphi’s regional and national profile.
William Fuessler, acting chair of the university’s
board of trustees and chair of the presidential search committee, said Balboni’s background makes him well suited to lead the university at a challenging time for higher education.
“To thrive, Adelphi requires an innovative leader and a proven executive capable of navigating complex financial and operational headwinds,” Fuessler said. “Michael Balboni brings precisely this expertise.”
Fuessler added that Balboni’s public- and privatesector experience will help the university secure resources and support institutional growth.
Balboni takes over as colleges and universities nationwide face pressure from shifting enrollment patterns, rising costs and growing scrutiny over the value of a college degree. Adelphi, he said, is entering that period in a position of strength.
Adelphi received a record 17,000 first-year applications for the upcoming fall semester, and has posted record first-year enrollment in two of the past three years, Balboni said. The university also has a balanced budget, a stable financial outlook and a $282 million endowment, up 69 percent since 2016.
“For workforce readiness, proving the return on investment of a degree is critical,” he said.
Affordability, efficiency and new partnerships will be central to his presidency, Balboni explained, as Adelphi works to demonstrate the value of a college degree. The university will focus on aligning programs with market demand in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and health care, while expanding internships, externships, job shadowing and study abroad opportunities.
“I want to make sure our students all have the experiential opportunities through internships, externships, job shadowing and study abroad,” Balboni said, “so they have real-world experiences employers want.”
By ABBEY SALVEMINI
Long Island’s 50-plus community gathered on May 1 for a free event focused on health, wellness and financial awareness at Memorare Caterers in Seaford. The Herald Senior Health and Beyond Expo brought together those seeking resources, services and expert guidance on topics ranging from medical care to retirement planning.
The expo, held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., featured informational exhibits, refreshments, giveaways and a free lunch provided by Bagel Boss Hewlett. Organizers aimed to create an engaging space where seniors could learn, connect and plan, with support from gold sponsors PSEG and National Grid; also a very special thank you to the Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island for their support.
Tonya Simmons, a consumer advocate with PSEG, highlighted programs many residents may not realize are available.
“We have energy audits that a lot of people don’t know about, and we also have discounted rates for anyone in a lower income bracket,” she said. Simmons also pointed to the company’s “peace of mind” program, which allows customers to pause billing during hospital stays. “It’s to give peace of mind when you go into the hospital. You want to heal without worrying about your bill,” she said.
She stressed the importance of outreach before emergencies occur.
“We don’t want people finding this out during a storm,” Simmons said, noting that PSEG tracks customers who rely on life-sustaining medical equipment. “The fact that we know where they are means we can keep an eye on them and respond faster.”
Diane Jones, a senior consumer advocate with National Grid, said events like the expo help strengthen community relationships.
“It’s important to connect with the community so they can see us in person,” she said. “We’re not just phone calls or emails; it helps to put a face to the company.”
She added that National Grid offers financial assistance programs and payment options to help customers manage energy costs.
Jennifer Roth, an in-home respite coordinator with Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, emphasized the growing need for awareness as the senior population expands. She highlighted free, state-funded programs for those caring for loved ones with dementia.
“People are living a lot longer because of advances in medicine,” she said. “If you don’t get sick, you don’t know what’s available to you. “There are a lot of free services and grants out there. It’s about getting that information into people’s hands
Attendees gathered to listen to presenters and learn about health and wellness topics.
before they need it.”
Nicola Prestano, assistant director of community engagement with East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center underscored the importance of personal interaction.
“The most important thing is getting those touchpoints with people,” she said. “Walking up to them, introducing yourself, and letting them know you’re there to help.” She added, “That way, if something happens, you already know where you feel comfortable.”
Susan Petroski, the-Randolph MSOT regional ambassador, HSS Long Island, lead the audience in a guided exercise.
“It’s important for seniors to really understand their options and what’s available,” she said.
Attendees visited exhibitors, joined health screenings and activities and enjoyed programming led by Joan Caliendo, Ms. NY Senior America 2024. The event also included bingo, performances, discussions and raffle prizes, aiming to provide both valuable information and meaningful community engagement.
To learn more, see additional photos and view the complete list of sponsors and exhibitors, be sure to visit richnerlive.com.
Five theater students from Wantagh High School were recently recognized in the 2026 Roger Rees Awards, reflecting a variety of talents including acting, dancing, singing and costume design.
Junior Stella Storic was honored in the Costume Designer Showcase. Students in the Page to Stage: Directing and Design class submitted costume designs for characters in the Broadway show, “La Cage aux Folles.” Stella’s designs will be featured at the Roger Rees Awards on May 17 at Symphony Space. She also receives a $200 prize, an opportunity to interact with City Center Encores! creative team members, and two tickets to “La Cage aux Folles” in June along with a backstage tour.
Stella has been part of the stage crew for Wantagh High School’s drama and musical productions since freshmen year.
Sophomore Peyton Burlew and junior
Jackson Lehrer were among students recognized in the annual New Faces competition. Peyton was named a 2026 New Faces honoree in acting, and Jackson earned the accolade in dance. Only 10 students from the New York region were selected for each category. They got to take part in a full-day enrichment program at Open Jar Studios on May 9, which included a masterclass in their respective discipline, as well as workshops and question-andanswer sessions with casting directors. They will also be recognized on stage at the May 17 Roger Rees Awards.
For her nomination, Peyton recorded a monologue from “Puffs,” the fall 2024 drama production, during which she played Megan Jones. She has been involved with Wantagh theater since sixth grade and took The Art of Improv in the fall semester.
“I’m really honored that other people
notice that I have acting talent,” she said. Jackson recorded a video performing a self-choreographed, two-and-a-half minute piece, “Internal Drift.” He has been dancing since he was 6 years old with a local studio and began competitively dancing at 7. This year, he is enrolled in the Choreography and Dance class at Wantagh High School and assisted with choreography for the middle school’s spring musical, “Dare to Dream.”
Following their performances in the spring musical, “Annie,” sophomore Angelina DiTroia and junior Ryan Mundy were nominees for the Outstanding Performer in a Musical Award. Angelina played Miss Hannigan and Ryan took on the role of Mr. Warbucks. As nominees, they both participated in a session at LIU Post on May 2 that incorporated an individual audition and a group masterclass.
Nassau County police arrested a 47-year-old man after they said he displayed a firearm during a disturbance May 17 in East Meadow.
According to detectives, officers responded at 4:30 p.m. to the area of the Meadowbrook Parkway and Front Street. Police said three males, ages 17, 18 and 20, were riding their bikes when Ramzee A. Mayo, who is undomiciled, approached them and displayed a firearm, placing them in fear for their lives.
The three fled and called 911,
police said. Mayo was later found and arrested without incident. The firearm was recovered at the scene.
Mayo was charged with thirddegree criminal possession of a weapon, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and three counts of second-degree menacing.
Police said he also had an active Nassau County warrant.
He was scheduled to be arraigned May 18 at First District Court in Hempstead.
For Angelina’s audition, she sang “Little Girls,” her main solo piece from “Annie,” while Ryan performed “Something Was Missing.” Both students have been involved with Wantagh theater since sixth grade. Angelina said it was fun to play a villain in this year’s show because of the creative freedom, and Ryan enjoyed portraying a more mature character after being cast as a young social media influencer in “1660 Vine” in the fall.
“These hardworking and talented students are very deserving of the recognition,” said Kimberly Davis, Wantagh High School theater teacher and director of the fall and spring drama productions. “I’m excited that our new course offerings – Choreography and Dance, and Directing and Design – are allowing students new opportunities to shine.”
— Hunter Fenollol
East Meadow will honor the nation’s military heroes Memorial Day with a morning ceremony by the East Meadow Fire Department, followed by the community parade.
The East Meadow Fire Department will hold its annual Memorial Day service at 8:40 a.m. Monday on the front ramp of Fire Headquarters, 197 East Meadow Ave., next to the library. All are welcome to attend as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
The Memorial Day parade will step off at 10 a.m. at East Meadow High School, proceed up Carman
Avenue to Hempstead Turnpike, east to Prospect Avenue, and continue down Prospect Avenue before ending at Veterans Memorial Park.
The parade will feature East Meadow’s war heroes, the men and women of the East Meadow Fire Department, East Meadow Little League, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, local dignitaries, a pipe band, and the W.T. Clarke High School and East Meadow High School marching bands.
EAC Network officially became Long Island’s lead agency for child protection services last week, opening the Nassau County Child Advocacy Center in Bethpage and expanding its coordinated response to child abuse, sexual exploitation and trafficking across both Nassau and Suffolk counties.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new center, located at 15 Grumman Road West, Suite 1000, included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, state lawmakers and officials from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
EAC Network already operates the Suffolk County Child Advocacy Center, and with the addition of the Nassau location, it is now the only agency overseeing child advocacy centers in both counties.
“Child abuse and sex trafficking don’t stop at county lines, and neither do we,” EAC Network President and Chief Executive Officer Neela Mukherjee Lockel said in a statement. “With our Child Advocacy Centers now in both Nassau and Suffolk, EAC Network is the first organization in Long Island’s history to offer a unified, island-wide response to child exploitation.”
According to Lockel, the Nassau center has already received nearly 200 referrals for suspected physical or sexual abuse of minors in its first three months of operation.
The Nassau County Child Advocacy Center will operate two main programs under EAC Network’s leadership. Its Child Advocacy Center program provides forensic interviews, medical evaluations and mental health support for children who have experienced abuse in a childfriendly setting. Its Safe Harbour program focuses on minors under age 18 who are victims of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, offering advocacy and com-
prehensive services.
“Nassau County is committed to ensuring every child is safe, protected, and supported,” Blakeman said in a written statement. “By taking the helm of the Child Advocacy Center, they are strengthening our county’s ability to respond swiftly and compassionately to our most vulnerable residents.”
Donnelly called the center “a cornerstone of how we protect children and hold
offenders accountable,” noting that the partnership between law enforcement, prosecutors and victim advocates helps ensure trauma-informed care while cases are investigated.
EAC Network works alongside Nassau and Suffolk police departments, both district attorneys’ offices, the FBI, child protective services agencies, hospitals and mental health providers.
The opening comes amid growing statewide concern over child abuse and trafficking. New York’s child protective system received nearly 149,000 reports of suspected child abuse and maltreatment in 2022, according to state data, with more than 31,700 reports formally indicated.
The New York State Interagency Task Force on Human Trafficking also confirmed 114 human trafficking referrals on Long Island and in the lower Hudson Valley in its most recent reporting period, with minors accounting for 38 confirmed victims statewide.
A former child advocacy center client, identified only as Julianna, spoke at the ceremony about the center’s role in her recovery from abuse, calling it “a place where I could begin to rebuild myself.”
EAC Network officials said the new Nassau center is intended to ensure that children facing abuse or exploitation receive coordinated care, advocacy and support closer to home.
—Jordan Vallone
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Throughout the country, an easily overlooked category of crime has become a multi-billion-dollar industry: Insurance fraud costs consumers $806 billion every year, taking financial bites out of construction, transportation, real estate and other industries. Long Island’s local business leaders are sharing their strategies to avoid contributing to that statistic.
Some 160 business owners and employees welcomed advice from elected officials, security firms and fellow business people at a panel at the Morrelly Homeland Security Center in Bethpage on May 13.
This was the first panel connecting government agencies and local businesses to share information about fighting insurance fraud, according to John Capece, Nassau County’s consumer affairs commissioner.
“This is the first time in Long Island history that we have a meeting with all the building departments and the Department of Consumer Affairs to host a seminar for training and for communication,” Capece said.
The panel, sponsored by the Long Island Builders Institute, is intended to be the first of many. Capece conceived of the idea to kick off a larger effort to improve consumer safety by helping community members and local businesses identify and avoid malicious actors.
“We want to stop them because they prey on the elderly and the vulnerable people that don’t understand contracts … they get sucked into something where they think they’re going to save so much money and they don’t,” Capece said. “We want to educate the
Panelists discussed the optimal ways of handling everything from home improvement contractor licensing, permitting, solar installations and contracting oversight to responding to fraudulent insurance and
training certificates and staged construction accidents, as well as other topics impacting homeowners and the building industry.
Panelist Gina Farese is a solar energy entrepreneur and a member of Nassau County’s Home Improvement Advisory Committee and many other groups in the industry. She has seen many cases of improper business dealings, ranging from roofing coverage to workers who aren’t on a contractor’s official payroll.
“There’s a lot of things that are broken and so far gone, and I’m seeing so many homeowners get, unfortunately, taken,” Farese said. “So many people just care about their bottom line … at the end of the day, it’s just making sure that the homeowners are protected properly, and educating people.”
Mary Harkins serves as counsel to the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs. She advises Capece and the department on the interpretation of local laws, with a focus on contract violations.
“Now we’re able to address it more proactively, rather than just reacting,” Harkins said. “Our licensing division is about, like, six people, some part-time, and we’re dealing with 10,000 licenses plus about 800 new applications per year. It’s a lot of responsibility, but in reality, we’re moving on it.
“We’re trying to uncover the really great contractors out there,” Harkins added. For bad actors in the industry, the department, she said, is “trying to identify them and take corrective action.”
The number one way to protect yourself against risk, Capece said, is to verify that any contractor in your home is legitimately licensed.
For more information, call Nassau County Consumer Affairs at (516) 571-2465.
By Karen Bloom
The holiday weekend may feel a little different this year with the beloved FourLeaf Air Show shifting to over to Fourth of July as part of the celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Still, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the unofficial start of summer, including a patriotic drone show to fill in for the annual flying spectacle that will illuminate the night sky over Jones Beach on May 24.
No matter how the weekend unfolds, one tradition remains firmly in place: gathering around the grill for a barbecue with family and friends.
Of course, no Memorial Day barbecue would be complete without the familiar favorites — juicy burgers sizzling over an open flame, hot dogs nestled in toasted buns and steaks grilled to smoky perfection. But today’s cookout offers far more than the traditional staples. By adding dishes with bold marinades, fresh seasonal ingredients and unexpected sweet-and-savory flavors, hosts can bring new energy to the holiday barbecue while still honoring the classics everyone loves.
The beauty of grilling is its versatility. From colorful kebabs and charred vegetables to caramelized fruit and herb-infused sides, even the simplest ingredients take on extra flavor over the fire. The tried-and-true will always remain a go-to, but the holiday is also the perfect opportunity to refresh the menu with creative twists and crowdpleasing additions that may just become new favorites.
Spicy Mustard Chicken Kebabs
Kabobs add sizzle to the season. With their easy preparation and quick cooking time, kabobs are a simple way to enjoy many of your favorite fresh flavors.
• 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 pound raw boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
To make sauce, place 3 tablespoons mustard in medium bowl. Add oil and garlic powder, and whisk until uniform. Cover and refrigerate. To make marinade, in small bowl, combine vinegar with remaining 2 tablespoons mustard. Stir until uniform.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Place chicken and marinade in large sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible and seal.
Gently knead marinade into chicken through bag. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Meanwhile, if using wooden skewers, soak 4 in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Alternately thread marinated chicken and onion chunks onto 4 skewers. Bring grill to mediumhigh heat.
Brush both sides of kebabs with sauce. Grill kebabs for 5 minutes with grill cover down.
Flip kebabs and grill for 6 to 8 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Enjoy.
Enhance the flavor of fruits and veggies at your barbecue. Try another way to eat pineapple by grilling it and pairing with a lime dip for a tasty treat.
• 1 pineapple
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 tablespoons honey
Lime Dip:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons lime zest
Peel pineapple; cut into wedges.
In resealable plastic bag, combine brown sugar, lime juice and honey. Add pineapple wedges, seal bag and turn to coat. Refrigerate 1 hour.
To make dip: In small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in yogurt, honey, brown sugar, lime juice and lime zest. Cover and refrigerate.
Heat grill to medium heat.
Remove pineapple wedges from plastic bag; discard marinade. Grill pineapple wedges, covered, 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Serve with dip.
Lemon Chive Corn
Grilling adds an extra special flavor to corn on the cob. Try it with a lemon chive butter topping.
• 4 ears fresh sweet corn, in husks
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Pull back husks from each ear of corn, leaving husks attached to base. Remove corn silk. Fold husks back around corn; tie at end of each ear with string or strip of outside corn leaves. Soak in cold water 30 minutes. Drain.
Place corn on grill, uncovered, 20 to 30 minutes or until tender, turning often. Meanwhile combine butter, chives and lemon juice.
Serve corn with lemon-chive butter.
‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’
Spring blooms with a taste of summer as Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band bring their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to the Paramount stage, celebrating the music of Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, and Zac Brown Band. Long Island–based and led by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, the group also features Linn DeMilta (Lovely Linn) on lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios on guitar, Frank Stainkamp on keyboards, Dan Prine on bass, and Mike Vecchione on drums. Together, they’ve spent more than a decade channeling the laid-back spirit of beach-country favorites. With a setlist built for singing along, the band blends crowd-pleasing hits with an easygoing, sun-soaked energy that evokes margaritas, ocean breezes and carefree nights where, as they like to say, it’s always “5 o’clock somewhere.”
Saturday, May 23, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Step back into time to when Memorial Day was known as Decoration Day at Old Bethpage Village Restoration. Throughout weekend, the living-history site comes alive with the sights, sounds and traditions of the 19th century, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into how Long Islanders once marked the occasion.Stroll the village while enjoying period craft demonstrations, storytelling and stirring brass band concerts that echo through the historic streets. The weekend culminates with the signature Decoration Day observance, re-creating the holiday as it was first commemorated in the early 1870s. Costumed Civil War “veterans” lead a patriotic parade and heartfelt ceremony honoring departed soldiers, capturing the spirit, pageantry and reverence of an earlier era. The parade and ceremonial program begin at 2:15 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, May 2324, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage. Visit oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org or call (516) 572-8409.
Thursday Night Live returns to Wantagh with an evening of live entertainment, local vendors, family activities, and community fun. The popular outdoor event series transforms the downtown area into a lively gathering space featuring live music performances, bounce houses, food and dessert trucks, shopping opportunities, and activities for all ages. Residents and visitors alike are invited to enjoy a festive summer atmosphere while supporting local businesses and vendors. The event is part of the 2026 Thursday Night Live summer schedule, which continues on select evenings throughout June (4, 18), July (2, 16, and 30), and August (13, 27).
• Where: Railroad Avenue and Wantagh Avenue, just north of the LIRR station, Wantagh
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Contact: Wantagh Chamber of Commerce at (516) 679-0100
Step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration during a Decoration Day program honoring those who served. With brass band entertainment, ceremony and parade.
• Where: 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage
• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., also May 24
• Contact: oldbethpagevillage restoration.org or (516) 5728409
Wantagh American Legion Post 1273 Memorial Day Parade/ Ceremony
The Wantagh American Legion Post 1273 host its Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony honoring the brave American men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. The parade steps off at 10 a.m. at the corner of Wantagh Avenue and Beltagh Avenue, proceeding through Wantagh in tribute and remembrance. A memorial ceremony will follow at the conclusion of the parade at the American Legion Post to honor fallen service members.
• Where: Begins at Wantagh Avenue & Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh; concludes at American Legion Post 1273
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Contact: Wantagh American Legion at (516) 785-9497
Blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live performers of his generation. Blending electric blues, rock, soul, R&B, and hints of hip-hop, his sound is both rooted in tradition and boldly modern. His guitar tone often recalls legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but his songwriting, socially aware lyrics, and willingness to experiment make him stand out as a contemporary artist. On stage, he is known for extended solos, dynamic arrangements, and emotionally charged vocals that move from soft falsetto to gritty growls, making every Gary Clark Jr concert feel unforgettable. Anyone who has listened to a Gary Clark Jr. album or watched the four-time Grammy Award winner perform live knows that he’s a gifted multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and performer. And never more so than on his last album, 2019’s illuminating This Land. But while This Land signaled a breakthrough in displaying his musical versatility beyond the blues, his latest album, JPEG RAW, represents a quantum leap.
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Seaford honors the nation’s fallen heroes, bringing together residents, veterans, and community groups in a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. Participants assemble at 9:30 a.m. at Verity Plaza, located behind the movie theater, before stepping off promptly at 10 a.m. The parade proceeds north along Washington Avenue, culminating at Seaford Middle School, where the American Legion will host a memorial ceremony to reflect, remember, and pay respects. All are invited to gather at the American Legion Post for light refreshments, continuing the day’s spirit of community and remembrance.
• Where: Assembly at Verity Plaza (behind the movie theater), parade route north on Washington Avenue to Seaford Middle School; refreshments at 2301 Penatiquit Ave., Seaford
• Time: Assembly at 9:30 a.m., parade at 10 a.m.
• Contact: (516) 679-8893
Harmonize With Long Island Harmonizers Love to sing? So do the Long Island MAY 26
Harmonizers. The chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society is a chorus of more than 20 singers, now welcoming new members. The ensemble performs fourpart a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, entertaining audiences at libraries, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and local events. All are welcome to visit one of their weekly rehearsals. Come listen, meet the chorus, and — if you’d like—join in and sing. No musical experience is necessary, just a love of singing and a desire to have fun making music together.
• Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 231 Jackson Ave, Syosset
• Time: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
• Contact: Call: Rich, (516) 5214779, or Dennis, (516) 680-8036, or visit longislandharmonizers. org
Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive 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
See the comedy musical, set in the 1590s, which follows two playwright brothers competing with William Shakespeare as they attempt to create the world’s first musical. From tap dancing eggs to beautiful love stores, this musical really has it all. Songs include “A Musical!,” “It’s Hard to Be the Bard,” and “Welcome to the Renaissance.” The cast is comprised of New York City professionals, including David Hibbard, who was in the original Broadway production, with CAP21 alumni and current students. Performances are scheduled throughout the fourday run.
• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Varied times, through May 31
• Contact: madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444
Brick Builders
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to spend an afternoon exploring, building and creating together! Brick Builders invites children and their grownups to enjoy building a LEGO Friends Flower Stand with Roses Kit. The program begins at the beech tree and includes a guided walk through some of the featured exhibit Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects made with LEGO bricks. After the tour, head to the Barn at Orchard Hill to build a LEGO kit to take home For ages 5+.
| $24 per child (includes admission, guided tour, and LEGO kit). $22 per adult (includes admission and guided tour), with member discount. Registration required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 4:30-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Game time
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
The Seaford Spring Jam returns for a weekend packed with carnival rides, games, live entertainment, food trucks, and family fun at the Seaford LIRR station. Enjoy concerts each night on the LI Fairs Stage, including performances by T Minus Ten on Friday, Arlington Road on Saturday, and School of Rock with Netty & Friends on Sunday. Attendees can also enjoy a wide variety of food vendors and trucks serving festival favorites and specialty eats while taking part in rides, games, and activities for all ages.
• Where: LIRR station from Seamans Neck Road to Jackson Ave, Seaford
• Time: 4-10 p.m., through May 31
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.
Members of Congregation Beth Tikvah gathered on May 3 for a festive Lag B’Omer celebration filled with food, music and family-friendly activities. Lag B’Omer is a joyful Jewish holiday traditionally marked by community gatherings and outdoor celebrations. At the Wantagh synagogue, congregants, families, friends and Hebrew school students came together for an evening that featured a barbecue with grilled hot dogs and all the trimmings, as well as a bonfire, roasted marshmallows and s’mores.
Attendees also enjoyed games, singing and dancing throughout the event. Live music was provided by the CBT Band, helping create a lively atmosphere for guests of all ages.
The celebration offered members of the congregation an opportunity to connect with one another while observing the holiday’s traditions in a fun and welcoming setting.
— Hunter Fenollol
— Joseph DeVito
May 21, 2026 —
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, -againstMICHAEL MARRON, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 28, 2024, wherein BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL MARRON, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 2, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2608 ISLAND CHANNEL ROAD, SEAFORD, NY 11783; and the following tax map identification: 63-261-604 & 805. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN SEAFORD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 609978/2022. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159904
LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR SG MORTGAGE SECURITIES BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FRE2, Plaintiffagainst - SUZANNE M. BRADY, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 15, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 2nd day of June, 2026 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York. Premises known as 3677 Smith Street, Wantagh, NY 11793. (SBL#: 57-89-105)
Approximate amount of lien $614,197.89 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 010340/2015. John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170
Tel. 347/286-7409
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: March 31, 2026
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in
the Terms of Sale. 159843
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that a public auction for a used vehicle sale will be held on May 26, 2026 on the website www.auctionsinternati onal.com. Bidders must register on website prior to bidding.
Vehicles are sold “as is” condition and do not come with vehicle keys. Vehicles pictures and descriptions can be found on website when bid is live. Vehicles must be paid through the website prior to removal of vehicle. Vehicles are located at 390 E. Clinton Avenue, Roosevelt NY 11575. 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee; Gray; VIN: 1J4GR48K55C523371; Owner: Wayne Huey of 2832 Bruner Ave 1, Bronx, NY 10469
*2007 Kia Sedona; Gray; VIN: KNDMB233876173866; Owner: Renee McDonough of 157 59 27th Ave, Flushing, NY 11354
*2010 Chevrolet Equinox; Gray; VIN: 2CNALDEW4A6371649 ; Owner: Boris Mizhquero-Yunga of 276 Mountain Grove St, Bridgeport, CT 06605
*2009 Chevrolet Malibu; Black; VIN: 1G1ZK57B59F169309; Owner: Glendon Cateau of 716 E. 45th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203
*2007 Dodge Sprinter; White; VIN: WD0PE845X75208525; Owner: Haim Tobaly of 21 Weyant Dr, Cedarhurst, NY 11516
*2004 Toyota Corolla; Blue; VIN: 2T1LR32E04C317785; Owner: Luis V. Peraltamorban of 1934 Harrison Ave 5E, Bronx, NY 10453
*2006 Lexus ES250; Black; VIN: JTHCK262382022200; Owner: Klein Georges of 185 Rutland Rd, Hempstead NY 11550
*2014 Audi AS4; Gray; VIN: WAUBGAFL5EA082964
; Owner: Dominique Blackman of 8400 Lindbergh Blvd Apt 716, Philadelphia PA 19153
*2010 Honda Accord; Black; VIN: 1HGCS2B85AA004466; Owners: Mike Eli Landaverde and C.L. Landaverde of 69 Hewlett St, Hempstead NY 11550
*2005 Nissan Altima; Red; VIN: 1N4AL11D75N900462;
Owner: Timothy Wanser of 1141 Norbay St, Franklin Square NY 11010
*2002 Acura MDX; Blue; VIN: 2HNYD188X2H530024; Owner: Zaynah Witter of 632 Nauer Ct, Elmont, NY 11003
*2016 Nissan Sentra; Gray; VIN: 3N1AB7AP1GY299861; Owner: Nissan Infiniti Lease Trust of PO Box 254648 Sacramento, CA 95865
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS
Antonio Fanizzi Commissioner 160208
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of May 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following location(s): BALDWIN
HARRISON AVENUE (TH 135/26) West Side - NO PARKING
ANYTIME - starting at a point 58 feet south of the south curbline of Bixby Drive (southern portion), south for a distance of 50 feet.
SEAFORD MARINA PARK DRIVE (TH 149/26) East Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - at a point 30 feet south of the south curbline of Elayne Court.
MARINA PARK DRIVE (TH 149/26) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - at a point 30 feet north of the north curbline of Elayne Court.
WEST HEMPSTEAD HARRISON STREET (TH 138/26) West Side - NO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at a point 270 feet north to the north curbline of Lenox Drive, north for a distance of 22 feet.
ALL PERSONS
Wantagh’s musicians of the future got a look at their instrumental options during a pair of recruitment assemblies on May 14 at Wantagh Elementary School.
Orchestra teacher Darren Sobol introduced more than 90 second graders to the four string instruments – violin, viola, cello and bass – that they can begin playing as third graders. He explained the different sounds they make and played a few chords on each. Students would have regular, small-group lessons with Mr. Sobol throughout the year, then morning ensemble rehearsals beginning in January to prepare for their year-end concert.
This year, about three-quarters of current third grade students are in the orchestra. Students are encouraged to join the orchestra, even if they plan to switch over to band in fourth grade,
INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated: May 12, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
JOHN FERRETTI
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 160293
because of the skills they develop, such as the ability to read music.
A recruitment assembly for third grades followed, in which Mr. Sobol reviewed the four string instruments and band teacher Jack Schiefer talked about the brass, woodwind and percussion options. He was joined by fifth graders, who played the different instruments and showed just how far they have come in two years.
The second and third grade students received sheets to mark of their instrumental top choices. Wantagh’s elementary students are also able to join the chorus beginning in third grade, which they can do in addition to playing an instrument.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF LEGAL POSTPONEMENT 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 an Ex Parte Order Amending Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered 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 May 27, 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. Original Sale Date: April 30, 2026 Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-000890
160276
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
COMPANION AVAILABLE
Responsible & Experienced With Luxury Car To Assist With Doctor Appointments, Errands, Shopping, Etc. or Just Going Out For An Enjoyable Day! Call 646-708-2160
DRIVERS FOR DELIVERY $17-$20/Hr. and COUNTER PERSON FOR CASHIER $17/Hr. Some Experience. Pizzeria In Massapequa. Call Rich 516-270-8241
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
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Town of Babylon Commissioner of Public Safety. Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 10 years of experience in the supervision and operation of a large department including ������������������������������������������������������� management, code enforcement and park rangers. Proven experience directing regulatory and ordinance enforcement personnel. Demonstrated ability to conduct and lead ����������������������������������������������������������
policies and procedures. Comprehensive knowledge of Town codes, applicable laws and enforcement procedures.
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Recently I attended an early-cut screening of a documentary on Farrell’s Bar in Brooklyn. The film is about much more than just a bar.
Though the world is always turning, these days it seems as if it’s turning more rapidly than ever. Traditions, values and principles are changing dramatically, and some are gone forever. None of us, of course, should want to live in the past or resist progress, which can bring so much good and improve our lives. But in the rush toward progress, we can’t afford to abandon institutions that encourage friendship and lasting bonds, especially in these fast-paced times.
Farrell’s is a legendary institution that has survived the rush of time. Now in its 93rd year — it opened just after the end of Prohibition — it remains a central neighborhood place for the Windsor Terrace community. It’s an oasis of calm in a desert of turmoil. Farrell’s has never betrayed its blue-
collar culture, embodied in its support for cops, firefighters and veterans. (Though newer, the Good Life, in Massapequa Park, and the Embassy Diner, in Bethpage, are cut from that mold.) Farrell’s isn’t far from Brooklyn Prep, where I went to high school, and a short distance from where my father grew up and my grandparents lived until the late 1970s.
Though I’d heard about Farrell’s and read about it in Pete Hamill’s stories, I stopped in for the first time during my very unsuccessful campaign for New York state attorney general in 1986. One of my closest friends and biggest supporters was Jimmy Boyle, who had been president of the FDNY’s Firefighters Union and a fixture in union politics for years. Boyle thought Farrell’s would be an ideal location for a campaign stop.
small part of it true, I climbed up on a chair in the middle of the room and began my speech by admitting that “even though my father was a cop, I have to say, you guys aren’t half bad yourselves.”
I had a small role in cementing the legacy of a legendary hometown bar.
After much friendly booing and catcalls, I thanked those guys for their support and assured them that I’d always be there for them. (A sad footnote: Boyle’s son, Michael, was one of the 343 firefighters killed on Sept. 11, 2001.) Though I went on to lose the election by 1.2 million votes, I had been a winner in Farrell’s, and for the next few years I’d stop by periodically to relive the one bright moment of the campaign.
independent filmmakers Jay Cusato and Rob Martin to produce a documentary on the bar, as a living metaphor for neighborhoods and good people who refuse to allow their values and lasting memories to be plowed over.
Sure enough, when I arrived just before noon that September day, Boyle had packed the place with loud, supportive firefighters, and a few cops had found their way in. It was as enthusiastic and as friendly a reception as I’ve ever gotten in politics. After Boyle gave me a phenomenal introduction, only a
Later, when I was in Congress, I would join Brooklyn friends from high school and make pilgrimages to Farrell’s. Though they couldn’t drink on the job, two detectives on my security detail, Jimmy Skopek and Melissa Zimmerman, took a particular liking to Farrell’s, especially its old-neighborhood flair.
Then, about 10 years ago, a friend of mine from Massapequa, Pat Fenton, wrote a well-received Off-Broadway play centered on Farrell’s. That inspired
On March 8, 2020, Cusato and Martin interviewed me at my home, one of many people they talked to. At the time, their project was close to completion — or so they thought. The coronavirus hit New York before the week was out, and the documentary was put on ice. I actually thought they’d abandoned it until just last month, when Cusato contacted me to let me know that, in the spirit of Farrell’s, they had stayed on the project, titled “Why Farrell’s?” and invited me to a private screening at the St. Francis College campus on Livingston Street in downtown Brooklyn. It was a great experience. Though several interviews remain to be done, and sound and lighting issues need to be worked out, “Why Farrell’s?” is outstanding, so accurately depicting the values that the bar is doing so much to preserve. My role was minor, but I’m proud to be part of what is truly a meaningful work of art.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Over the past few months, I’ve attended many social events, at which I shared a few drinks and conversation with friends from both political parties. Those gatherings have given me an open window into the rapidly emerging fracture among lifelong Republicans as well as the sharp divisions among Democrats. Democrats are always arguing, so it’s been the Republican fissures that have surprised me the most. Regardless of what the pollsters tell you, President Trump is tearing these lifelong partisans apart. There is division about the president’s arguments with the pope and deep concern about the impact of the war in Iran on the party’s chances in November. But the one issue that seems to evoke even more angst is Trump’s encouraging his name to be plastered on anything and everything that is brandable.
George Washington’s name appears
in all kinds of places across the country, including the national capital. The city was named after him while he was still in office, but he strongly opposed it and tried to block the effort when it was brought before Congress. Washington surrendered his military role when the Revolution ended, rejected efforts to have himself declared king and stepped down after two terms as president. His greatness was not only that he led the country, but that he declined a number of honors.
Let presidents serve. Let citizens judge. Let history name the buildings.
Have other presidents drawn the line? During Gerald Ford’s presidency, Congress passed a bill to name a federal building in Grand Rapids, Mich., after him. Ford refused to sign it, saying he knew of no federal building named for a president still in office and did not want to establish a precedent. President Harry Truman also resisted such honors, and once wrote emphatically that he had no desire to have roads, bridges or buildings named after him. His supporters wanted the Marshall Plan to bear his name, but Truman said the plan deserved the name of its author.
Clearly, the temptation to name things after politicians isn’t limited to one party. Members of Congress have long attached their names to federal buildings, courthouses, highways and bridges. Sen. Mitch McConnell has five buildings named after him in Kentucky.
And every president has been surrounded by supporters who want to flatter him, celebrate him and turn policy into legacy. The danger is especially high in our age of branding, social media and permanent campaigning. That is exactly why every president, irrespective of party, should draw the line when there is an effort to rename everything in sight after him. There is something unhealthy in a republic when a president uses public property to enlarge his own image. This isn’t a Republican or Democratic concern — it’s an American concern. The presidency belongs temporarily to one person, but the government belongs permanently to the people. Public buildings, passports, coins, agencies and national institutions should not become personal billboards for whoever hap-
pens to occupy the Oval Office.
There is also a moral difference between a grateful nation honoring a leader after history has had time to judge him, and a president accepting — or encouraging — public honors while he is in office. This isn’t a question of whether a president is admired. The pollsters have attested to the fact that Trump is supported by 85 percent of registered Republicans. But there will be ample time for our country to render honors unto this president and those who follow him.
We need to have a law that applies equally to all parties. That law should prohibit the naming of entities, structures and objects after a sitting president. It must apply equally to Trump and all those who follow him.
Our founders worried about this issue. They knew that republics can decay not only through force, but also through flattery. Let presidents serve. Let citizens judge. Let history name the buildings.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.
Memorial Day weekend arrives each year with familiar signs that summer is finally at hand. Beaches begin to fill. Backyard grills fire up. Families and friends gather after months of work, school and routines that too often keep them apart. Across Long Island, from Jones Beach to Montauk, the holiday has long marked the unofficial beginning of a season people eagerly await.
There is nothing wrong with celebration. In many ways, that freedom to enjoy ordinary moments with the people we love is part of what generations of Americans fought to preserve.
But Memorial Day asks something more of us as well.
Especially as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Americans should remember that Memorial Day is not simply another three-day weekend on the calendar. It is one of the country’s most solemn observances — a day set aside to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States military.
That distinction matters.
Veterans Day honors all who served. Armed Forces Day recognizes those currently in uniform. Memorial Day is specifically for those who never came home.
Their sacrifice stretches across every generation of American history. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War,
from the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, over 1 million service members gave their lives believing the country they defended was worth that sacrifice.
Many came from communities across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Their names appear on memorial plaques, downtown monuments and flags lining local streets. Long Island itself carries deep connections to America’s military history.
Roughly 1,180 Long Islanders died in World War II: 855 from Nassau and 325 from Suffolk. At least 552 service members lost their lives in the Vietnam War. After the Sept. 11 attacks, 56 Long Islanders died in Iraq and Afghanistan.
From Revolutionary War sites to Gold Star families who sacrificed during the wars of the past two decades, our region has long contributed to the nation’s service and sacrifice. Memorial Day offers communities an opportunity not only to recognize that history but also to share it with those of younger generations.
As America prepares to commemorate 250 years of independence in July, this Memorial Day carries even greater weight. Anniversaries often invite celebration, reflection and pride. But they should also invite humility. The freedoms Americans treasure did not sustain themselves across two and a half centuries. They endured because generation after generation answered a call to serve, often at extraordinary personal cost.
It can be easy for the deeper meaning of Memorial Day to become overshadowed by travel plans, social gatherings and retail sales. Modern life moves quickly, and holidays increasingly blur together into commercial events disconnected from their origins. But Memoria Day deserves more intentional remembrance — and that does not always require grand gestures.
Attending a local parade or remembrance ceremony before heading to a barbecue is one way to honor the fallen. Visiting a veterans’ memorial or cemetery and taking a few quiet moments to read the names engraved there is another. Americans can also observe the tradition of flying the flag at half-staff until noon, and share stories with children and grandchildren about relatives who served, ensuring that those stories are not lost.
Honoring sacrifice does not diminish the joy of the weekend. In fact, it deepens it. Gratitude gives meaning to celebration. A nation that remembers its fallen understands more clearly the value of the freedoms it enjoys. This year, amid the sound of waves, fireworks and laughter that will soon define the summer season, Americans should make room for remembrance, too. Memorial Day is not ultimately about the start of summer; it is about the cost of freedom, the weight of service and the obligation of a grateful nation never to forget those who gave everything in its defense.
all’s well. Families know better.
The sticker shock Americans are feeling at the gas pump, in the grocery store, opening their utility bills and paying for health care aren’t some abstract political talking points. The high cost of living is a daily reality for many families trying to make it through the week.
Gas prices surged 15.6 percent this month, with regular gas sitting above $4.50 per gallon. Grocery prices made the biggest onemonth jump in nearly four years in April. Inflation is up to 3.8 percent, the highest in three years. For the first time since 2023, it’s outpacing wage growth. For millions of Americans, every trip to work, school, the grocery store or a doctor’s appointment now comes with a painful reminder that the cost of living keeps climbing.
Just last week, President Trump was quoted as saying, “I don’t think about
Americans’ financial situation — I don’t think about anybody.” Previously, he has called affordability, or a lack thereof, a “hoax.” Despite what he refuses to see, the cost of living is the defining issue facing this country right now.
F or many people, the affordability debate is about survival, not ideology.
The numbers tell the real story very clearly. A new Marist poll found that most Americans think their cost of living is not very affordable (44 percent) or not affordable at all (12 percent). More than six in 10 Americans do not believe the economy is working for them. Those aren’t partisan numbers. Those are kitchen-table realities.
Gas prices are a major reason why. The same poll confirmed that a whopping 81 percent of Americans say that current gas prices are putting at least some strain on their household budget. One-third say the strain is major. Only 19 percent say they feel no strain at all.
It’s not just gas prices, either; a reckless tariff policy has caused prices on everyday goods to skyrocket. Gutting green-energy projects has raised utility
prices by cutting supply so it can’t meet demand. Our historic debt, created by the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” has massively driven up interest rates, making everything more expensive. Sky-high inflation has hit families from every direction.
All of these cost drivers, when put together, can feel insurmountable. Families are facing hard choices, and being forced to think twice about expenses they never considered before. For some that means cutting back on summer travel. For others it means buying less food at the grocery store. And for workers with long commutes, it means watching more and more of each paycheck disappear before they even get home.
Administration officials who continue to deny affordability as a major issue for Americans only grow more and more disconnected from what ordinary people are experiencing. Telling Americans to hit the road when gas is hovering above $4.50 per gallon, as our transportation secretary did two weeks ago,
is a little like telling struggling families not to worry about grocery bills while food prices continue to rise.
For many people, this debate is no longer about ideology. It’s no longer about Democrat vs. Republican, liberal vs. conservative, left vs. right. It’s about survival. Can they afford groceries this month? Can they afford their commute? Can they afford a family vacation, or even a weekend getaway?
That’s why affordability remains the central issue in the country today. Not political slogans. Not cable television arguments. Real life.
Washington can debate statistics and messaging strategies all day long. But families don’t experience the economy through press releases. They experience it every time they swipe a credit card, fill up their tank or open a utility bill.
And right now, too many Americans feel like they’re falling further behind. Now we must come together and work across the aisle to bring costs down for the American people. There is no mission more urgent.
Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.
At Mount Sinai South Nassau, patient safety isn’t just a priority— it’s a standard, one we work on every day. And the experts agree.
We’ve earned national recognition for patient safety, including an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and the Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award.
That means better outcomes for our patients with lower risk of infections or hospital acquired conditions.
When it comes to your health, nothing matters more than knowing you’re in a place where patient safety matters most.
Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau