A crippling blood shortage and a ransomware attack have thrown the New York Blood Center into crisis, threatening its ability to supply hospitals and exposing deep vulnerabilities in the region’s health care lifeline.
New York Blood Center faces two crises in a matter of weeks
By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com
The New York Blood Center, the region’s blood donation giant, was already at a low point before the new year. Since then, things have gone from bad to worse.
In December, a blood shortage — amplified by a holiday donation slump — sent its members scrambling to replenish blood supplies. Rather than beat the slump at the start of the year, the center declared a blood emergency as donations precipitously dropped 30 percent.
The nonprofit, which delivers blood products to 150 hospitals, including Long Island Jewish Valley Stream, blamed factors like “inclement weather” and a pause in school and church donation drives for the “alarm-
ingly” dismal turnout of blood donors in recent weeks.
Then, just as one crisis unfolded, another struck. A ransomware attack, one of several reported across the county, has disrupted the center’s information technology systems. The full extent of the damage hackers inflicted on NYBC’s IT systems last week remains unclear. As of press time, the center declined to comment on when it expects services to return to normal and how many of the system’s sites were affected.
“We immediately engaged third-party cybersecurity experts to investigate and confirmed that the suspicious activity is a result of a ransomware incident,” wrote an NYBC spokesperson. “We took immediate steps to help contain the threat and are working dili-
Village kicks off centennial celebration
By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com
On a frigid January night, a few steps from Village Hall, Valley Stream residents converged to officially launch its centennial year with a flag-raising ceremony. The moment marked the start of a yearlong celebration honoring the village’s evolution from a quiet farming outpost to one of the largest incorporated villages in New York State.
out all the stops. A parade, a block party, and a lineup of events throughout the year will commemorate the milestone. But beyond the pageantry, the centennial is a moment to take stock—to reflect on where the village has been, and where it’s headed next.
love this village, and I raised my three children here, the four th generation of Fares to live here.
The timing was deliberate. Nearly a century ago, on Jan. 30, 1925, Valley Stream residents cast their votes to break from the Town of Hempstead and chart their collective destiny.
Ed FARE Mayor, Valley Stream
What followed was a century of rapid expansion—farmland gave way to suburban streets, a few thousand residents became more than 40,000, and a oncesleepy village emerged as a thriving community.
Now, as Valley Stream turns 100, village officials are pulling
Mayor Ed Fare sat down to discuss the weight of the occasion, starting with the centerpiece of the event: the centennial flag.
Q: What was the inspiration behind the design of the centennial flag?
We love our official Village logo and flag. We wanted to keep its heritage, design, and meanings as we surmise our founding fathers were thinking when they originally adopted it as the official village seal, 100 years ago.
“Loyaute M’Oblige” is a French phrase that roughly translates to “loyalty gratefulness and faithfulness. “On the Trail of the Rising Sun” more CoNtiNued oN pAge 24
Herald file photo
HERALD SchoolS
V.S. District 13 shines at All-County Festival
Nearly 60 talented student musicians at Valley Stream District 13 participated in the prestigious Nassau Music Educators Association All-County Music Festival this year. The annual event, which brings together young musicians from across the county, is a testament to the dedication, passion, and skill of the students in our district’s music programs.
The festival is divided into two sections: Division I, which includes fifth-grade students, and Division II, which includes sixth-grade students. This year, the fifth-grade Division I AllCounty Music Festival concert took place on Sunday, January 12th, and the sixth-grade Division II concert followed on Sunday, January 19th. These performances featured students from the Valley Stream Thirteen district, along with others from across Nassau County.
The students were selected for their excellence in music and joined their peers in learning challenging repertoire. Under the direction of guest conductors, they rehearsed together, fostering a spirit of collaboration and musical achievement. The festival culminated in a series of spectacular performances at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts.
The participation of our students in the NMEA All-County Music Festival speaks to the strong music programs within Valley Stream District 13, according to district officials. They continued: It is a remarkable accomplishment to see so many of our young musicians showcase their talents on such a prestigious stage.
–Juan Lasso
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13 Valley Stream District 13 musicians took part in the All-County Music Festival.
Area school wins game, raises $1,500
The 20th anniversary Hoops for Hope game ended with a win for Hewlett High School and $1,500 raised for SIBS Place. SIBS Place Survivorship in Brothers and Sisters is a free program serving children ages five to 17 who live with a sibling who has cancer or a devastating illness or a parent with cancer.
They provide guided therapeutic peer support to help the children develop skills to cope with the traumatic and emotional impact of a loved one’s medical diagnosis.
The game was on Jan. 30 and Hewlett won 59-40 against W.T. Clarke High School, in Westbury.
At halftime, a fifth grade CYO basketball team played and the Hewlett Step Squad performed as well.
The cheer leaders and school Pep Band were loud and had the gym rocking,” Andrew DeBernardo, head coach wrote in an email. “The Bulldogs won their game as well 59-40 vs Clarke and we raised $1500 for SIBS place. All in all a very great night!!”
–Melissa Berman
The Hewlett Bulldogs Cheerleading Squad stood on the sidelines during the Hoops for Hope game and brought the energy and encouragement for Hewlett.
Andrew DeBernardo, head coach Hewlett HS, left, Bill Durbin, founder of Hoops for Hope, Joanna Furmont Executive Director SIBS and Joe Hasbrook, head coach Clark HS before the big fundraiser game.
Michael Rechter/Herald photos
Christian Destine #5, right, guarded Justin Ortiz #1, left during the boys varsity basketball game, on Jan. 30.
The opening tip off from the 20th Hoops for Hope game began with Gabe Bowery for Hewlett High School, left and Yaler Segura, for W. T. Clarke High School with Daniel Cankri, number 33 in foreground.
Nick Massimo, front right, conducted the Hewlett HS Pep Band during a time-out to fill the gym with music.
Planning for Those
You Are Responsible For
A client came in to see us for their follow-up consultation. The client shared that, in between their two meetings with us, the husband‘s brother had suffered a stroke and was now in a rehabilitation facility. He was a bachelor. He had no power of attorney or health care proxy. He may or may not have had a will -- they didn’t know. Further, they were unable to get access to his apartment to clean out the fridge, get his clothes, and look for his papers, because he had failed to put them on the list of persons approved to enter in the event of an emergency.
One of the most overlooked areas in estate planning is the question of who you are responsible for. Do you have a friend or relative who you know will need to rely on you if something happens? Either they have no one else or everyone else is too far away. If you have the responsibility, then make sure that you have the documents you will need to carry out that responsibility. Otherwise, you may be facing a guardianship proceeding.
Similarly, so many of our clients have adult
children with young families. Do you know whether your children have wills, powers of attorney and health care proxies?
There are serious pitfalls for young families if one spouse dies without a plan. Roughly half of their assets go to their surviving spouse and half to the children. The court will appoint a legal guardian for the children’s money and the unused portion must be turned over to them at age eighteen, ready or not!
A potentially more serious problem for older adults is whether their sons and daughters who have families possess adequate life insurance. If your son or daughter dies without sufficient life insurance, you may be called upon to support and educate your grandchildren out of your retirement money.
Finally, if you are responsible for the care of an elderly parent, then make sure it is you who has the power of attorney and health care proxy and not another sibling who may end up controlling the situation from afar, much to your dismay.
HERALD SchoolS
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington
V.S. District 13 celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Schools across Valley Stream District 13 took part in lessons and activities in honor of Martin Luther King. Jr. Day. The district aimed to inspire students to reflect on King’s legacy of peace, justice, and equality through creative activities and thoughtful discussions.
At James A. Dever Elementary School, students explored the accomplishments of King and celebrated his holiday by receiving their very own Nobel Peace Prize. Each student’s medal was inscribed with words of love, kindness, and peace, thoughtfully written by parents and teachers. These words highlighted each child’s unique character, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for one another’s individuality.
Meanwhile, students at Wheeler Avenue Elementary School engaged in a hands-on creative project by designing cut-out portraits of King. They were then encouraged to share their dreams, inspired by Dr. King’s vision for a more
just and harmonious world. This activity allowed students to connect with King’s message on a personal level, reflecting on their hopes for the future.
“The goal of our activities is to encourage our students to learn about Dr. King’s legacy and embody his teachings of love, kindness, and peace in their everyday lives,” said Superintendent Judith LaRocca. “These activities were an opportunity for our students to actively engage using the values that Dr. King promoted and reflect on how they can make a positive impact in their communities.”
The district’s observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day not only helped to honor his achievements but also provided students with meaningful lessons that align with the district’s commitment to fostering a caring, inclusive, and socially responsible learning environment.
–Juan Lasso
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
James A. Dever Elementary School honored the civil rights legend and Baptist minister Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
CHASE TIMBERLAKE
Baldwin Senior Basketball
AFTER HELPING LEAD the Bruins to a historic 2023-24 season highlighted by a fourth straight Nassau Class AAA title, Timberlake joined a very short list of 1,000-career point scorers in program history. On Jan. 17, he reached the milestone previously achieved only by his head coach Darius Burton, a 1993 Baldwin graduate. Timberlake is well on his way to a second All-County selection, averaging a team-high 24 points per game.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Feb. 6
Boys Basketball: Baldwin at G.N. North 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Carey at Roosevelt 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Elmont at Hewlett 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: G.N. South at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Lawrence at West Hempstead 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: South Side at Manhasset 5
Girls Basketball: Mepham at New Hyde Park 5 p.m.
Girls Baksetball: Jericho at MacArthur 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Bethpage at Kennedy 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: V.S. Central at Mepham 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Manhasset at South Side 7 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 7
Girls Basketball: V.S. South at Lynbrook 4:45 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Syosset at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Clarke at Mineola 6:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Seaford at Malverne 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Floral Park at Wantagh 7 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Wrestling: Nassau County Division 1 qualifier tournaments at Farmingdale, Long Beach, Oceanside, Jericho, Massapequa and Kennedy 9 a.m.
Gymnastics: Coaches Invitational at North Shore 10 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hicksville 12 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
HERALD SPORTS
VSC puts depth on display
By GARRETT D. URIBE sports@liherald.com
It couldn’t be happening. Not again.
Valley Stream Central’s Jamin Legagneur had just led his Eagles boys’ basketball team to a statement win Dec. 19 at league foe Jericho, the breakout VSC senior scoring a team season-high 34 points before ankle issues forced his exit with less than a second remaining.
Head coach Mike Wimmer, who in camp this winter expressed relief his squad had returned to full health from a season beset by injuries, had a moment of deflated deja vu. Happily for the third-year skipper, it wouldn’t last.
With sophomore Julian Vera scoring a season-high 17 points in sidelined Legagneur’s stead, VSC (12-6 overall, 7-5 Nassau Conference AA3) marched on in its next outing, rolling 51-43 against non-league visitor Kellenberg Dec. 23 to start a 9-2 stretch for the Eagles.
In spite of seeing key pieces – including AA3’s fourth-leading scorer Sean O’Neil (18.2 points per game) – by turns visit the injured list this winter, VSC, which clinched a postseason berth with its league win Monday over MacArthur, has warded off derailment with depth.
“It’s a different team this year,” Wimmer said. “Because we have so many guys who are bought-in, and ready to do what it takes, we haven’t been hurt as a team like last year, even though guys have been hurt.”
Upon the return of Legagneur (15.1 ppg) from a four-game stint on the Eagles’ IL, junior guard Logan Douglas – third on the team with 13 three-pointers – and O’Neil – whose 34 steals and 19 threes lead the Eagles – would each miss a three-game block, in succession, due to injury. Amid the attrition, VSC won five straight, and seven of eight games through late January.
“It’s legitimately been one after another of our guys getting hit,” Wimmer said. “But fortunately we have a lot of talent. We’ve had the guys who have stepped up when needed and picked up the slack.”
Julian’s brother Jaiya Vera led all
scorers in O’Neil’s absence in a pair of VSC victories, scoring 23 points against Miller Place at home on Dec. 30, and matching that total in a win Jan. 10 against visiting league foe Mepham.
“Jaiya’s truly like a throwback kid,” Wimmer said of the sophomore forward. “He’s everywhere for us, and he complements our two bigs really nicely.”
Six-foot-six sophomore center Simar Singh – whose 12 points and game-high 11 rebounds helped lift VSC to a 69-48 non-league rout of Cold Spring Harbor Jan. 3 – has missed the Eagles’ past three games due to a turned ankle. Nextman-up Nelson Frias – a 6-5 junior – has
averaged four points filling in, with Singh expected to return before the end of the regular season Feb. 10, when playoff-bound VSC travels to Long Beach for the teams’ finale.
“Simar and Nelson have both carved out spots,” Wimmer said. “They’re our anchors defensively. Even with our offensive firepower, without them defending we’d be in trouble.”
Added Wimmer: “It’s really great having eight, nine kids you can rely on, all making sure everyone’s locked in and focused on extending the season. It’s a special group, the nicest situation I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of.”
Derrick Dingle/Herald
Junior Sean O’Neil is averaging better than 18 points per game for the Eagles, who head down the stretch with a 12-6 mark.
My Brother’s Keeper chapters join network
Valley Stream Central High School District is proud to announce that, through a collaboration with the Village of Valley Stream, the District’s My Brother’s Keeper program has joined the New York State My Brother’s Keeper Com munity Network.
to providing opportunities for success and essential sup port to the community’s young men of color. Valley Stream joins over 30 school districts and municipal partners state wide as part of the MBK Community Network.
trict’s MBK program will benefit from additional technical assistance, opportunities to participate in state and nation al MBK events, and eligibility for the MBK Fellows Pro gram. This prestigious program offers graduating seniors valuable leadership experiences in government, education, and business.
there are no one-size-fits-all solutions for students, and that success depends on providing a wide spectrum of nurtur ing elements both in and out of the classroom,” said Nakeshia Smith-Farnum, Director of Restorative Practices and Community Engagement. “Our acceptance into the state MBK Community Network is a testament to our suc cess in providing those elements. We are excited to build upon the My Brother’s Keeper framework, capitalize on our strengths, and continue to foster success for our students.”
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
Gillen is ceremonially sworn in to House
By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Laura Gillen celebrated joining the U.S. House of Representatives, where she represents New York’s 4th Congressional District, at a ceremonial swearing-in at the Elmont Public Library on Jan. 25.
Nearly 400 people gathered in the library’s theater to honor Gillen, who was officially sworn into office in Washington on Jan. 3. Former Rep. Steve Israel did the ceremonial honors, with the help of Gillen’s husband, Chris Gillen.
In 2024, Gillen announced she would run against Republican incumbent Anthony D’Esposito, whom she had challenged in 2022, losing narrowly. But voters chose Gillen by a margin of about 2 percentage points in last November’s election.
Congressman Gregory Meeks, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow also attended the library ceremony.
“As you are taking your oath, we could not be prouder of you,” Solages told Gillen. “This moment is really a testimony to your hard work, your dedication and the trust that you have earned from so many of us. Your vision in this district gives us hope and gives us confidence. And we know that the integrity, compassion and determination you have will resonate here, in D.C. and all over.”
Meeks recalled the uncertainty of the October election, particularly in the 4th C.D. But, he said, the Democratic caucus chose Gillen to run because of her character, her ability to connect with the community and her care for all citizens.
“You can’t be a leader if you’re not willing to serve,” Meeks said. “And we
saw in Laura one that served and one that listened. She’s coming and talking to all sides, and she’s looking for ways to bring people together to better the entire United States of America.”
“So, I made it to Capitol Hill,” Gillen laughed when it was her turn to speak, to loud applause. “I have gratitude for
the awesome opportunity to serve the people of this district, and gratitude to all those that made this possible.”
She thanked the elected officials who supported her campaign, expressed enthusiasm about working with them and thanked her family, who she said sacrificed so much in the months leading up to the election to help her campaign.
From 2018 to 2019, Gillen was the first Democrat to serve as Town of Hempstead supervisor in 112 years, which she attributed to her dedication to compromise and bipartisanship.
“Working across the aisle was a necessity,” she said. “It wasn’t always easy. But with a carrot and a stick, we made it possible.”
Among her successes during her time as supervisor, she continued, was the leadership she demonstrated in bringing down taxes, upgrading infrastructure, serving communities that had been ignored, challenging polluters and bringing vital ethical reforms to the town to ensure that public servants were accountable to the people they serve.
“Now, as your congresswoman, those lessons will continue to guide me,” she said. “I’ll always put Long Island and our nation first, and work to do what’s best for all the people in our community. It is the honor of my lifetime to be your congresswoman.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Former U.S. Rep. Steve Israel, left, and Rep. Laura Gillen’s husband, Chris Gillen, took part in her ceremonial swearing-in before a cheering crowd, three weeks after Gillen began her term in the House of Representatives.
Top 3 things to know about new trustee
By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com
He’s been a steady presence in village politics for nearly a decade. Now, Sean Wright, a United Community Party stalwart, is trading his business suit for a judge’s robe as he takes the bench in Nassau County’s 2nd District Court. Filling his seat for the remainder of his term is political newcomer Sharon Daly.
Rather than a quiet swearing-in at Village Hall, officials seized the centennial flag-raising event as a high-profile stage to announce her appointment. Daly, nevertheless, will have to run to keep her seat for a full term during a special village election on March 18.
So, who is Sharon Daly? These are the top three things you need to know.
She is a lifelong resident with a strong community presence
Her family’s roots in Valley Stream stretch back to the early 1920s. Raised in Valley Stream alongside her three brothers, she attended Holy Name of Mary School before moving on to Central High School. From an early age, she immersed herself in the community, playing sports, joining local organizations including as a cheerleader for the Valley Stream Green Hornets, and stay-
with a special election looming to determine if she’ll keep it.
ing actively involved throughout high school. “I always seem to fall into leadership roles,” said Daly. “I’m just one of those people who takes it by the horns and moves things forward.”
As an adult, she’s served as the fundraising chairperson for Holy Name of Mary, active at the Holy Name of Mary Parish, and volunteered with the Valley Stream Green Hornets Youth Football
NEWS RELEASE
TRANSPORTATION FOR PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS 2025-2026
As per Education Law, Section 3635, the District must legally provide transportation for District children in grades K-6 attending private/parochial schools. Kindergarten children must be five (5) years of age as of December 1st, 2025.
• The parent must submit a written request for transportation each year and include the child’s name, date of birth, grade, and school.����
• The request must be submitted to the Transportation Department of Valley Stream School District Thirteen at 585 N. Corona Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580����on or before APRIL 1st 2025 for the school year beginning September 2025.
If your child qualifies for transportation, please be sure that your request is submitted on time. Applications received after April 1st will not be considered except for new residents who are required by law to apply within (30) thirty days after establishing residence in the District.
Visit the Valley Stream 13 website for additional information/ application: www.valleystream13.com
Organization for decades.
She’s never held public office but is a well-connected political insider Daly, a lifelong Republican, has been an active member of the Valley Stream Republican Club despite never holding formal office. She has stood shoulder-toshoulder with club leader and former Nassau County Board of Elections Republican Commissioner John DeGrace, coordinating events like the annual Valley Stream GOP Person of the Year ceremony—a tradition she founded.
“I always wanted to find deserving recipients who contributed to the village,” she said.
She insists on a listen-and-learn approach to her role as trustee Daly is upfront about her lack of experience in public office and intends to take it all in. “I’m coming in this cold, so I’m going to just sit back as a newbie and listen and learn,” said Daly. “And if it’s anything like my past, I always end up getting overly involved, because I put my heart and soul into anything that I take on.” The trustee calls diversity the village’s strength and says leaders need to tune in to every constituent’s concerns—and take the extra step to hear them out.
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Alice Moreno/Herald
Sharon Daly, a longtime community leader and well-connected Republican insider, is stepping into public office for the first time as she fills a vacant trustee seat left by Sean Wright,
Angela Romano steps into community
By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Angela Romano was inaugurated during an installation ceremony last night at VFW Post 2718 as the new president of Garden City South Community League, a civic association that serves Franklin Square,
She was vice president of the league for the past two years under the leadership of Marge Kelly, who served as president from 2018 until Romano’s induction last night.
Romano, 70, grew up in Queens, but moved to Franklin Square 47 years ago shortly after getting married to her husband, Don Romano. As a longtime resident of the town, she has been heavily involved in the community, serving as president of the Garden City Kiwanis and former treasurer of the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce.
When she stepped down from the chamber in 2021, she was determined to stay involved in the town.
She recalled receiving newsletters about Garden City South Community League, which were organized and sent under the league’s late president, Pat Friedman. She led the league for nearly 40 years before Kelly stepped into the role.
Later in 2021, Romano decided to approach Kelly and ask if she could serve on the board. Kelly quickly agreed, she said, and immediately appointed her to the board. Romano served as secretary of the league until she was appointed to treasurer in 2022. As a result of her experience balancing books for the chamber, Romano quickly got to work improving the league’s record-keeping methods. She
introduced a computerized system for maintaining and recording financial expenditures, which helped streamline the league’s process of reporting finances to their accountant.
Eventually, in 2023, Romano was appointed to serve as vice president, alongside her role as treasurer, and worked both positions concurrently for almost two years.
That is, until Kelly announced that she’d be stepping down in 2024 and named Romano as her successor. During their 2024 tree lighting, Kelly explained that she had been president for a while, and she thought it was time for some new ideas and views. She added that the league would be in good hands after she passed the torch to Romano.
“I’m kind of nervous, you know,” Romano laughed. “I’ve been president of organizations before, but this is different.”
What is different about this position, she explained, is the increased level of contact she must maintain with the town to fulfill her duties as president. In order to hold events in public spaces, she continued, she must file permits with the correct departments to ensure the space is reserved for the league’s use.
But, Romano said she has help from her two vice presidents, Ellen Andrasick and Yossi Oren. She said Andrasick knows the town well and can help her file for permits and maintain whatever other communications they might need.
Andrasick reiterated the importance of the league working together as a team to better serve Franklin Square, regardless of what positions they hold.
“Whether you’re president, vice president, treasurer or secretary, we all work together to make the community bet -
ter,” she said.
In addition to her responsibilities to the league and Kiwanis, and former responsibilities to the FSCC, Romano said she has always balanced her role serving the community with her commitment to her career.
When Romano moved to Franklin Square, she was a medical lab supervisor in Brooklyn. When the commute became too much of a burden, she pivoted to the real estate industry. She has been a realtor for 25 years, spending the past five years working for Signature Premier Properties.
As president of the league, Romano will also be directing her board to function as a liaison between the community and town entities, such as the police and fire departments, by communicating concerns brought up by citizens during their monthly general meetings. Residents often report suspicious business activity, abandoned buildings and traffic safety concerns to the board, she said.
In response, she continued, the community league informs the proper town officials or entities, whom they work with to resolve the problem.
Romano said her goal as president is to collaborate with other groups and associations to unite the community. She said she would like to get all the civic organizations to have events together, rather than each group operating on their own. She also expressed interest in collaborating with the Franklin Square Historical Society and the Franklin Square Public Library.
“It’s time to do things together,” she asserted. “When you bring the community together, you get more people, more force, and better results. It’s better to be united together.”
Doreen Cantalino, the league’s treasurer, said she is excited for Romano’s term as president, and hopes to continue their work fundraising for the community and hosting events around Franklin Square. “I like working with Angela,” she said. “I think she’s going to do great.”
Angela said the league’s next event will be a Memorial Day parade, in collaboration with VFW Post 2718. The league will be responsible for contacting politicians for appearances, recruiting performers for entertainment, and finding local caterers for food and refreshments.
“My goal is really to unite the community so that we can be stronger and make the community a better place to live,” she concluded.
Solages hosts winter apparel giveaway
Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages is partnering with ICNA Relief, the Elmont Memorial PTSA and Muslims for Humanity to host a winter apparel giveaway at Elmont Memorial High School on Saturday, Feb. 8., from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the senior cafeteria.
According to a news release about the event, organizers will be distributing free winter coats, blankets, and other items to families and community members in need, who must be present at the event to receive items.
“The winter season can be especially challenging for local families and our neighbors who are navigating financial difficulties,” Solages said. “It is important to rally around them, give them hope, and extend a helping hand to better days ahead. I thank this outstanding team of partners for coming together to make a difference in our community.”
–Renee DeLorenzo
Courtesy Angela Romano
Angela Romano, president of Garden City South Community League, is determined to unite the Franklin Square community.
Tim Baker/Herald Legislator Carrié Solages is hosting a winter apparel giveaway at Elmont Memorial High School, in collaboration with ICNA Relief, Muslims for Humanity and the school’s PTSA, on Saturday, Feb. 8.
STEPPING OUT
SCORE BIG on
Super Sunday
Go for the ‘tasty ‘win’
By Karen Bloom
It’s the biggest sports day of the year. The big game — on Feb. 9 — is great opportunity for casual winter entertaining.
Thrilling plays, must-see commercials and your pals are all quintessential elements of the perfect game-day get-together. Of course that game on the big screen is the main focus, but plenty of action takes place around the table — keeping everyone well fed is a sport in itself.
While crowd-pleasing Buffalo flavor-inspired foods and football always seem to go together, think beyond those traditional flavors for a new twist on your Super Bowl cuisine.
Baked Spinach and Chicken Dip
A tasty dip is always a winner. Try this flavorful, creamy variation — in addition to the guacamole.
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen, chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, chopped Heat oven to 375 F.
In microwave-safe medium bowl, add cream cheese and dressing. Microwave on high 30 seconds, or until cream cheese is soft. Stir to combine. Add spinach and Parmesan cheese. Mix well. Add chicken and stir to combine.
Transfer mixture to baking dish that holds at least 6 cups. Bake 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature should be 165 F.
Serve with crackers, bread or veggie sticks.
Note: If you like it spicy, substitute a chipotle ranch
dressing and add diced pickled jalapenos. To make ahead, prepare unbaked dip up to 3 days ahead; store covered and refrigerated. Bake prior to serving.
Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Pizza
Instead of the pizza delivery, get creative with “garlic bread” version.
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta
• 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, divided
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt
• 3/4 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup mini pepperoni
• 2 (16 ounce) cans refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury Grands)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups mozzarella, cream cheese, ricotta, cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt. Transfer mixture to a 9”-x13” baking dish then spread pizza sauce on top. Top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella and pepperoni.
Halve biscuits and roll into balls, then place on top of dip.
In a small bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, and parsley. Brush on biscuits and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan.
Bake until biscuits are golden and cheese is melty, about 45 minutes, then cover with aluminum foil and bake until biscuits are cooked
Sheng Wang
through, another 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.
Step up your chili with a barbecue twist.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 26-28 ounces crushed or chopped tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 (15 oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
Chili fixin’s: shredded Mexican cheese, avocado, jalapeno, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, fresh tomato, corn chips, and salsa are all great additions.
Over medium heat, saute onion and carrots in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the bell pepper and spices and saute another minute. Add the tomatoes and vegetable broth and simmer over low heat until thickened, about 20 minutes.
Stir in the corn, beans, and barbecie sauce and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add more chili powder and cumin to spice up if necessary.
Simmer another 5 minutes or until ready to eat.
Serve with your favorite chili add-ons.
With his signature laid-back style, as showcased in his Netflix special “Sweet & Juicy” produced and directed by Ali Wong, comedianactor-writer Sheng Wang brings his hilarious standup to the Paramount stage. Wang is now truly coming into his own. Two decades of performing has taken him from doing stand-up for touristy audiences in New York to a successful Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy,” produced and directed by Ali Wong. He mines comedy from the mundane, everyday parts of life — from the meditative ritual that is shopping at Costco to how to get maximum value from health insurance. Because he’s from Texas, Wang also speaks with a slight Southern drawl, giving a relaxed quality to his delivery. Among his other credits, Wang was a featured standup on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and wrote for ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat.” Wang now resides in L.A. and in his time explores botanical gardens and new ways to snack.
Saturday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m. $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
Boyz II Men
R&B superstars Boyz II Men are always in the groove. They arrive at Tilles Center with their soulful multi-octave sound and incredible vocals, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Given the monumental success of their albums and the timeless quality of their vocals, it’s easy to see why they remain one of the most popular R&B groups of all time. Boyz II Men redefined popular R&B and continue to create timeless hits that appeal to fans across generations. Their four Grammys are just the tip of the iceberg. The trio holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group, with an astounding 64 million albums sold. And the reason is abundantly clear. For the past three-plus decades, Boyz II Men have given fans a rich catalog of hits filled with smooth harmonies and enduring themes. And for Boyz II Men, the hits just keep on coming.
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Barbecue Three Bean Chili
Your Neighborhood
THE
Friends of the Brothers
Friends of the Brothers returns to the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers, Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 p.m.
Their powerful celebration of the Allman Brothers, featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show “Lackawanna Blues.” Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years, has recorded with Double Trouble and Band of Gypsys and toured with Experience Hendrix. Singer/guitarist Alan Paul is the author of “One Way Out,” the definitive, best-selling Allman Brothers Band biography based on 25 years of reporting on and interviewing the band. Their first-hand experience with the Allman Brothers Band and their deep knowledge of the repertoire and the music’s roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth.
Friends’ perform songs from every stage of Allman Brothers career, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players, including drummers Dave Diamond (Zen Tricksters, Bob Weir, Robert Randolph) and Lee Finkelstein (Tower of Power, Blues Brothers), bassist Craig Privett (Half Step) and keyboardist Mike Katzman (Leslie Mendelsohn, The Electrix). Rock on! $38, $33. andmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or landmarkonmainstreet.org.
Nassau BOCES GC Tech
Open House
Nassau BOCES GC Tech, Long Island’s state-of-the arts career and technical education high school, is opening its doors to all students with a passion for a hands-on career. Come and get a “Taste of Tech” at an open house at the campus in Levittown, Thursday, Feb. 13, 6-7:30 p.m. Nassau BOCES GC Tech prepares students for a future in the workforce by providing them with the skills, knowledge and professional qualities they will need to be successful in their chosen career fields.
The school boasts a new spa where aspiring estheticians learn skin care and massage techniques. There is also a newly revamped auto shop. Prospective students and families from Nassau County are invited to tour the GC Tech campus at 150 Abbey Lane, and to meet with expert teachers, counselors and administrators. Register at nassauboces.org/ gctech or call the school for more information at (516) 604-4200.
Zumba
The Village of Valley Stream hosts Zumba at the Valley Stream Community Center in Arthur J. Hendrickson Park, starting Thursday, Feb. 6, 6 p.m. Attendees must register. There are no refunds or make-up classes. For more information, visit Vsrec.org or call (516) 825-8571. 123 W. Merrick Road.
Bird walk
The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for another in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Saturday, Feb. 8, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet The group will meet in parking lot #3, off Exit 18 of the Southern State Parkway. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon.org.
District 30 Board meeting
Valley Stream District 30 Board of Education meets, Monday, Feb. 10, 8 p.m. 99 Shaw Ave. For more information call (516) 434-3600 or visit ValleyStream30.com.
Grace Church Thrift Shop
Grace United Methodist Church’s thrift shop is open every Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Find adult and children’s clothing and accessories, including shoes, coats, and pocketbooks. Browse the special table replete with jewelry, electronics, household and kitchen items, art, and more. 21 S. Franklin Ave.
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Feb. 7, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; also Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 12-13,10:15 a.m. and noon. It is 3017 in this futuristic, musical retelling of “Cinderella.” She’s now a space engineer looking to revolutionize space travel. When the Prince holds a space parade, Cinderella saves it by helping fix the Prince’s spaceship. Cinderella knows it’s the perfect opportunity to show the Prince her new hyper warp speed engine.
But first, she’ll have to keep her evil stepmother from throwing a wrench in her plans! $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
VSCHSD Board meeting
Valley Stream Central High School District Board of Education meets, Wednesday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m., at Memorial Junior High School. 320 Fletcher Ave. For more information call (516) 8725628 or visit vschsd.org.
Rockville Centre Choral Society Recruitment
Like to sing? The Rockville Centre Choral Society wants you! The non-sectarian chorus sings in Lynbrook and around the South Shore. New members are welcome. The chorus sings a variety of genres: pop, folk, showtunes, light classical and standards.
No experience necessary.
RCCS meets Wednesdays, 7:45-9:30 p.m., and performs two concerts yearly. Rehearsals are held at St. James United Methodist Church, 11 St. James Place, Lynbrook. For more information, email rvcchorus@ gmail.com or call (516) 5995705.
Architectural Review Board meets
The Village of Valley Stream holds their regular Architectural Review Board Meeting, Monday, Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m., at Village Hall. 123 S. Central Ave. For more information, visit Vsvny.org or call (516) 592-5142.
Having an event?
Feb. 28
Silver Threads Paint Party
Village of Valley Stream holds their annual Silver Threads Paint Party art classes for the village’s Silver Thread members starting Friday, Feb. 28, 1 p.m. at the Valley Stream Community Center in Arthur J. Hendrickson Park, 123 W. Merrick Road. Members must register. Class fee is $5 on the day of class. For more information, visit vsrec.org or call (516) 8258571.
Cardio Kickboxing
The Village of Valley Stream hosts cardio kickboxing at the Valley Stream Community Center in Arthur J. Hendrickson Park, Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Attendees must register. There are no refunds or make-up classes. 123 W. Merrick Road. For more information, visit Vsrec.org or call (516) 825-8571.
Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum. org.
Hempstead House tour
Feb. 16
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, Feb. 16, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAYS
Since the pandemic, blood donations have languished across the country, and normal seasonal dips in holiday donations are placing enormous strain on non profits like the New York Blood Center.
First, a blood shortage, then hackers’ cyberattack
gently with these experts to restore our systems as quickly and as safely as possible.”
Hacked and running dry
The cyber breach has already taken a visible blow to the blood center’s normal operations. Over a dozen blood drives and appointments have been canceled. Donors are advised of longer wait times. Hospitals have been warned of delays in blood processing and distribution.
Blood collection and distribution lean heavily on software and computer systems to manage their operations. A ransomware attack — where hackers lock up these systems and demand payment to restore access — can logjam even the most basic of tasks, forcing blood centers into slow, manual workarounds, delaying care, and cutting service. NYCB assured they are “implementing workarounds” to fulfill blood orders.
“Continuous and open communication” has been kept between Northwell and the blood center, noted Dr. Alexander Jose Indrikovs, a pathologist at Northwell Health and senior director of blood transfusion services.
“As customers, we’ve been told that yes, computer software is affected. Some of them are being used at a limited
capacity. Others cannot be used at all,” said Indrikovs. “Hospitals are aware of their limitations, but the center is still filling orders at a reasonable time and no patients or hospitals have been at risk of going without transfusions.”
A blood donation system is bleeding
That being said, Indrikovs warned, that the hospital system’s heavy reliance on the New York Blood Center means any decline could be “destabilizing” to their in-house inventories if faced with a major blood trauma or hemorrhaging crisis.
As difficult as it has been for blood centers nationwide to rebound from pandemic-induced donation shortfalls, the twin crises at NYBC expose a growing fragility — those risks undercutting the nonprofit’s ability to keep the region’s hospitals stocked.
O-negative blood, a universal donor, is highly sought-after in emergencies by hospitals noted Indrikovs since it can be safely transfused to patients with unknown blood types. Even as NYBC restores its operations, there is no easy way out of the ongoing blood shortage.
“Blood is used every day, and in order to treat patients, we need adequate blood inventories,” said Indrikovs. “If there was ever a time, this is the time to come out and donate.”
Herald file photo
Chambers workshop focuses on marketing
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Nassau County small businesses gathered to learn about cutting-edge digital marketing strategies from Richner Communications’ Lori Berger at the Hilton Garden Inn, in Roslyn, on Jan. 21.
The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce organized a series of workshops to help local businesses thrive in 2025, sharing information about computer systems, financial planning and communications and marketing. Berger was a presenter for two marketing classes: one in Malverne, on Jan. 14, and the class a week later in Roslyn.
“I’m so passionate about helping people and small businesses with marketing,” Berger said. “We’re a community newspaper company. That’s what we do.”
Her presentation walked attendees through four core aspects of marketing: offline, social media, E-commerce and websites.
The marketing presentation was for businesses in Zone 1, north of Route 25, and it was attended by about 50 small business leaders from throughout the zone. The workshop was made possible by a Nassau County Technical Services grant, which is designed to help the local economy by offering guidance to small businesses free of charge.
Ira Reiter is a co-owner of the Barking Biscuit with his wife, Hillary, and president of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce. Their business took off five years ago, around the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. Social media proved to be a vital tool that helped their to succeed.
Richner Communications offered complimentary one-on-one meetings for all attending businesses to review their search engine optimization and social
Janna Rodriguez, founder of the Innovative Daycare Corp., in Freeport, has been helping children learn and grow for 12 years. “We’ve created a strong support system between the families, the community, the educators and the other organizations that we partner with,” she said.
The NCCC provides a service that makes entrepreneurship much more accessible in Nassau County, Rodriguez said. “The reason that I was interested in marketing is because small businesses, such as myself, find it very difficult to be able to hire a marketing consultant, especially when you’re first starting up,” she said.
In the workshop she discovered that her business comes up on the front page of search engines, and she was advised her to plan more content for Facebook and Instagram.
media presence — a service Reiter intends to follow up on.
“We are looking forward to it — were just hoping that we can absorb everything,” Reiter said. “So much, and so much fantastic information that came out of last night, and it will help us with our online presence.”
The workshop encouraged Reiter to use Geo-Fencing, a technique to target advertisements to potential customers in a specific area.
This was the first time the NCCC has offered classes at no cost, according to Russel Green, a board member of the council and president of the Syosset and Woodbury Chambers of Commerce.
A Chamber “allows other businesses and individuals in the community to know who you are and when you’re starting,” Green said. “We’ll support you, hopefully, for many, many years.”
To learn more about the NCCC and future events, visit ncchambers.org.
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald
About 50 small businesses owners gathered at Roslyn’s Hilton Garden Inn on Jan. 21 to learn about digital marketing with Lori Berger, of Richner Communications.
20 Kids Camp and School Discover
Kids Camp and School is an in-depth guide on summer camps, after-school programs, and educational institutions, ensuring families have all the information they need to make informed decisions.
Ad Deadlines Feb. 6 and Apr. 3
Our Story is a special supplement dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of the community—its local businesses.
Ad Deadline Feb. 13
Our Story Finance
The Our Story Finance special supplement is a dedicated exploration of how community businesses drive local economies, foster financial resilience, and create lasting social impact. This edition highlights the power of collective entrepreneurship, showcasing how locally owned enterprises shape thriving neighborhoods through shared resources, ethical finance, and community investment.
Ad Deadline Feb. 20
Real Estate Movers and Shakers
This edition spotlights the individuals driving positive change, from revitalizing neighborhoods to pioneering sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. This edition features in-depth profiles, and takes a look behind-the-scenes at how community-focused real estate and business leaders are reshaping local communities.
Ad Deadline Feb. 27
Public Notices
Notice is hereby given that I shall, commencing on February 18, 2025, sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on real estate herein-after described, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party-ininterest in such real estate shall pay to the County Treasurer by February 13, 2025 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges, against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 per cent per six month’s period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 18, 2025 lien sale, Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at:
https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer
Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February, 2025 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.
The liens are for arrears of School District taxes for the year 2023 - 2024 and/or County, Town, and Special District taxes for the year 2024. The following is a partial listing of the real estate located in school district number(s) 13, 30, 24 in the Town of Hempstead only, upon which tax liens are to be sold, with a brief description of the same by reference to the County Land and Tax Map, the name of the owner or occupant as the same appears on the 2023/2024 tentative assessment roll, and the total amount of such unpaid taxes.
ImporTanT
THE NAMES OF OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2023/2024 TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER.
Town of HempsTead scHool:13 Valley sTream Usfsd 13
HEITNER STUART & TERESA 6,183.37
37040 00190 19-21
SINISH ANTHONY J & MARY J 985.50
37046 01070
SOKUM-URER SABIHA & RIDRAN 10,817.31
37089 01070 107-108
LASALA G F 480.71
37092 00180 18-19
L&L ASSOCATES HOLDING CORP 17,205.14
37095 00470
L&L ASSOCATES HOLDING CORP 63,619.43
37095 00490
BANCONE BRITTANY & CELLINE 12,876.21
37100 00060 6-7
OLSEN STEVEN L 4,667.31
37108 00150 15-16
ALLY ZULFAKAR & ALLY BIBI A 2,752.57
37132 00370 37-40
NAJERA FEDERICO 6,058.87
37139 00200 20-21
ALLOWAY EBONE S 13,262.24
37139 01010
MAHARAJ PARBATIE & SUNJAY 14,291.74
37144 00100 10-13
MOONASSAR ANAND 7,351.86
37151 00010
MARCONI DANIEL P & CENAIDA 11,612.96
37157 00270 27-29
DEKAJ RROK & MRI 3,073.80
37169 00010 1-4
SHIH SOUN CHOU & FU 7,457.82
37169 00410
NORMOYLE MICHAEL & MARIA 1,510.50
37182 01010
FINCH MEREDITH A 12,288.20
37200 00420 42-44,240
NORTH CENTRAL AVE INC 21,036.75
37301 01410 141-143
GORDON LEE H & CAROL R 748.42
37509 1346UCA00070 1346 C A 7 UNIT 31
HAMPTON RICHARD R & EVA K 8,889.80
37510 02010 201-203
AMRITT HENSLEY GEORGE & RAMDIAL 8,108.80
37530 02210
FAJARDO JOEL 7,323.43
37565 00160
EAGLE PROPERTIES INC 17,044.90
37578 00040
JOHNSON IVY 4,727.55
37582 00300
FIELDS GEORGE & FIELDS BRIAN 14,547.94
37593 00140
BASTIEN MARIE T 5,871.43
37599 00410
IWANKIW MARK & PACE JEANNINE 7,705.72
37600 04090 409-411
MINERVA 1 LLC 1,326.96
37603 00140
WHITE LINDA 11,612.25
37621 00210
1033 N FLETCHER LLC 18,380.85
37624 00520
BESS RICHARD 15,104.60
37625 00090
DELUCE MARGARET 3,040.87
37633 00040
SHIPMAN/ANDERSEN FAMILY TRUST 3,712.21
37637 00020
NAGI IRFAN 8,761.15
37637 00680
SINGH GURMEJ & KAUR BALBIR 13,418.76
37641 00130
LEVY LE K & I LEVY & DAISY 8,646.63
37651 00100
GLENN DAVID & MARLENE 9,351.56
37655 00220
MATIAS ETAL CLEMENTE 1,361.68
37664 00080
VARGAS OSCAR & MORMA 1,453.45
37665 00350
OLVARRIA KENNETH 2,803.57
37665 00440
BAILEY CAROLINE 14,850.10
37669 00080
CHOI KYEN J & LEE SUN K 3,362.15
37672 0012UCA02550 12
0015UCA02710
leGal noTIce pUBlIc noTIce of coUnTy TreasUrer’s sale of TaX lIens on real esTaTe
Public Notices
However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEW YORK TREND
NEWSDAY
UNIONDALE BEACON Dist 1003
JEAN-PAUL GAUMARLEE & GAUMISHA
37309 00240 24,25 PORTER TIFFANY
37309 00330 33-36
& M ENTERPRISE INC 1,391.44 37353 00160 16 & 263 KAUR MANJIT
37354 00020 2-5
37355 00080 8-9
37361 00040
37361 00150 15-18
37363 00260
37377 00110 11-13
MICHAEL &
01160 116-117, 158-159
0092A
00190 19-22
00670 67-68
00580 58-59
02110
04410 441-442
11750 1175-1177
TERMS OF SALE
Such tax liens shall be sold subject
any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to
The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), 12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et. seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.
The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.
The rate of interest and penalty which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount from which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall beretained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase be of no further effect.
Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.
Furthermore, as to the bidding,
1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.
2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.
3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.
4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made, in connection with, said bid shall be forfeited. This list includes only tax liens on real estate located in Town of Hempstead. Such other tax liens on real estate are advertised as follows:
Town of HempsTead
Dist 1001
HEMPSTEAD
UNIONDALE BEACON
Dist 1002
HEMPSTEAD BEACON,
EAST MEADOW HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY Dist 1004
BELLMORE HERALD
MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY Dist 1005
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY
THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 1006
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN
WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN Dist 1007
BELLMORE HERALD
MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1008
BALDWIN HERALD
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
HEMPSTEAD BEACON, NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1009
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
FREEPORT HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1010
BALDWIN HERALD
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1011
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
OCEANSIDE TRIBUNE
OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD Dist 1012
MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE Dist 1013
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
VALLEY STREAM HERALD
VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE Dist 1014
FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES
FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NASSAU HERALD (FIVE TOWNS)
NEWSDAY Dist 1015
FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES
FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE
JEWISH STAR
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1016
FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD
FRANKLIN SQUARE BULLETIN
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Public Notices
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MASSAPEQUA POST
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-25 Plaintiff, Against Manuocheka Jeunes; Homability, LLC; New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; Jane Doe as Doe #1; John Doe as Doe #2 Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/19/2024, 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 2/25/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 21 Cochran Pl, Valley Stream, NY 11581, And Described As Follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village Of Valley Stream, Town Of Hempstead, The County Of Nassau And The State Of New York.
Section 39 Block 386 Lot 121
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $1,408,167.56 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 606730/2022
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
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THE NASSAU OBSERVER
CiTy of Glen Cove
Dist 4005
GLEN COVE HERALD GAZETTE
GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT
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NEWSDAY
THE NORTH SHORE LEADER
CiTy of lonG BeaCh Dist 5028
LONG BEACH HERALD
LONG BEACH TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities.
Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in braille, large print, audio tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 13715.
Dated: February 05, 2025
THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER MINEOLA, NEW YORK 1288774
there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee. SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Dated: 1/15/2025 File Number: 34818 CA 151130
Place a
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST TYREK MCEACHIN, JASMINE MCEACHIN, NIASIA MCEACHIN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 26, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 25, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 87 Gold Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Rosedale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 37 Block: 413 Lot: 582. Approximate amount of judgment $821,954.59 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600906/2020. Harold F.
Damm, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-001000 83902 151069
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007-WM1, ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, -againstOMONUWA OMOGUN, 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 September 30, 2024, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007-WM1, ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and OMONUWA OMOGUN, 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 March 11, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2 WALLACE COURT, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; and the following tax map identification: 37-33602-38.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 001570/2016. Ronald J. Ferraro, 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. 151429
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ADELADE MOORE A/K/A ADELAIDE MOORE, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 20, 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 March 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM, premises known as 31 PENINSULA BOULEVARD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11581. All that certain plot, piece or
Raising the centennial flag to the future
closely represents our village, as travelers from the states, or New York City would first reach Valley Stream as they traveled on “SUNRISE Highway” as they were heading east . . . on the trail of the rising sun. Still very appropriate today.
So, we kept that logo, and added some centennial flourishes with celebratory gold leaf, and voila! our anniversary flag was born.
Q: What does it mean to you to have the centennial celebration fall under your administration as mayor?
It is a huge honor to be the leader of this great village during our 100th-anniversary celebrations. You have heard me say many times that I am a thirdgeneration, lifelong Valley Streamer. My grandparents settled here before incorporation. So, my ancestry exceeds 100 years. I love this village, and I raised my three children here, the fourth generation of Fares to live here. I want to show my appreciation for all this village provides to its residents, and continue these traditions for years to come.
While the centennial flag adds decorative flourishes to the original, its deeper historical meaning has been mostly lost to time, according to village historian Carol McKenna. The archives of the Valley Stream Historical Society hold no record of it. A review of period newspapers—including the Valley Stream Record, Brooklyn Eagle, and Brooklyn Daily Times—yielded no mention of its existence. Even a visit to the Henry Waldinger Library, a repository
of local history, came up empty, she noted.
“It is conceivable that any records regarding it were destroyed years ago,” she said.
The village’s centennial presses, but the origin story of its banner remains, it seems, in the place where time forgot.
parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in
Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 39, Block: 467, Lot: 17. Approximate amount of judgment is $435,213.79 plus
The village kicked off its centennial celebration outside its seat of government, Village Hall, where this neon sign draws attention.
Richard Sullivan, ex-chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department, third from right, and current Chief Anthony Capone, right, stood in salute alongside some of his firefighter colleagues.
Alice Moreno/Herald photos
Members of the Valley Stream Fire Department’s color guard stood in proud recognition of the village’s centennial.
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 multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.
Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
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DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
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EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER : Proficiency Quickbooks, 2/ 3 Days/ Week, Flexible. $20-$30/ Hr. Send resume cbc@catalinabeachclub.com Call 516-239-2150
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA
ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT
Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OFFICE ASSISTANT PT Flexible Hours. General Office Duties. Phones, Filing, Light Bookkeeping. $20$25/ Hour. Salary Commensurate With Experience. Email info@cousinsmetal.com Or Call 516-536-7755
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with
HomesHERALD
Do we have beams we don’t need?
Q. We were meeting with our contractor during our home reconstruction, literally tearing the entire house apart and adding a floor. He introduced his “framer,” who was polite but left us with concern. He said the beams going across our house were “overkill.” The beams support a new balcony and high ceilings, so our foyer and living room are two stories tall, very dramatic, and we love what our architect did. We started wondering if we had overpaid for beams that maybe we didn’t need, since the framer said the structure was much more than necessary. Should we ask our architect for an explanation, or just let it go? Construction isn’t cheap, and we understand that, but there is concern about spending more than needed. What do you suggest?
A. Let it go. What you’re experiencing is common and frustrating to hear, because there are so many aspects to designing a building, and I wonder if your framer understands. For example, beams are designed for much more than carrying material loads. Roof beams must carry what we call “dead” loads as well as “live” loads, such as wind and heavy snow.
I have asked framers who have made these statements if they were aware of the several different code-required load capacities a beam is subjected to, to which they either answer, honestly, that they aren’t sure, or make remarks like, “Well, that’s your job,” or “I just know this is overkill.” They just know. And they probably don’t, or they could explain.
Wind impacts buildings in many ways, and is considered a load with multiple effects, requiring calculations, for your safety, to keep the walls and roof from tearing away, or lifting off the house, or crushing down on you in a push-and-pull manner that wind naturally has. Then there are connectors to attach everything. These braces, stirrups and saddles keep structure from pulling apart, but each type comes with engineered calculations.
We often start selecting beams, rafters and joist sizes based on stringent energy codes, which dictate that you must have certain thicknesses of insulation, to prevent heat from escaping quickly or causing your air conditioning to work constantly from heat migrating inward. If you choose the more expensive compact foam insulation, which has greater resistance per inch to heat gain and loss, then we can sometimes reduce the size of some structure. But if you choose less costly fiberglass insulation, which looks like cotton candy, the structure must be deeper, taller, larger — however you can describe it — to accommodate the required insulation thickness.
Larger rafters and joists weigh more, and their angled end cuts require deeper-sized beams to join them. So now you know part of why those beams probably aren’t “overkill,” and why your framer should do a different kind of “home-work” before professing his knowledge. A building is a large jigsaw puzzle of custom parts, and “under-kill” can lead to disaster. Will the framer be there to take responsibility? Good luck!
are encouraged to send questions to
with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Formica top. W-32"xH-30"xD-18" $99. 516-320-1906 END TABLES (2): Mahogany, Good Condition, $30. 516-450-1654
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Electricians
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Exterminating
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opinions
An inauguration that was decidedly different
Last month I traveled to Washington, joining many Nassau County Republicans, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman and GOP Chairman Joe Cairo, to celebrate the inauguration of Donald Trump as our 47th president. Beginning with Richard Nixon’s second inaugural in 1972, I had attended 10 previous ones, seven of them during my 28 years in Congress.
This year’s event was certainly memorable, and not just because the tundra-like weather forced the ceremony indoors. From the moment I arrived at the historic Mayflower Hotel, where many of New York’s elected officials and party leaders were staying, I was struck by the extraordinary level of excitement, enthusiasm and hope. This was significantly different from Trump’s first inaugural in 2017, when, though he had many strong supporters, there was an air of uncertainty about whether his administration would hit the ground running. There had been multiple leaks from the Trump camp and a number of his top cabinet officials, like Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, had no previous
connection to Trump or any political or governmental experience.
This time around, Trump was striding into Washington as a conquering hero who had made the greatest political comeback of any president in history. And he was as prepared for action as any of his predecessors. There was no doubt he would hit the ground running.
The cold and the intense security made getting around Washington more difficult than I remember for any previous inauguration. Cairo and I were in a car for almost two hours, encountering constant roadblocks and rerouting as we tried to get to a Newsmax event at the relatively nearby Andrew Mellon Auditorium, before we gave up and returned to the Mayflower, where New York was staging its Inaugural Party, featuring Elise Stefanik, the upstate congresswoman and the nominee for ambassador to the United Nations.
old friends and prominent officials gathered to reminisce and share the latest news and rumors.
Trump’s inaugural address was truly unique. No president has ever been so direct or detailed, as he laid out the specifics of his agenda and the myriad executive orders he would be issuing on everything from border security to energy production. He was unsparing in his criticism of what he saw as the terrible failings of the Biden administration — all of this as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris sat just several feet away.
iwas struck by the extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.
But none of this dampened the spirit of hope and optimism. The Mayflower event, the day before the inauguration, drew an overflow crowd of hundreds, who heard powerful speeches from EPA nominee Lee Zeldin, Congressman Mike Lawler and Blakeman. And there was always action in the hotel lobby, as
Ordinarily I would consider it wrong to disrespect a former president at an inaugural ceremony, but these are not ordinary times. Trump strongly believes that the Biden administration and its allies abused the legal system in attempts to destroy Trump with criminal prosecutions and bankrupt him and his family. Ironically, Trump didn’t know that just moments before his term expired, Biden had pardoned five members of his family.
The main impact of Trump’s address was that he would do all he could to change the direction of the country. The days of woke progressivism were over.
After the ceremonies, the president went to the Capitol One Arena for an
indoor version of the inaugural parade. I was particularly proud that one of the bands taking part was the NYPD Pipes & Drums. By some mistake, the band hadn’t been included in the original lineup, but when its leaders came to me just weeks before the inauguration, I was able to reach out to the Trump team and get it done.
The almost frenetic energy of the inauguration continued in the days that followed, as Trump signed one executive order after another. (While I strongly agreed with most of them, I believe it was wrong to issue blanket pardons to those who carried out violence against police officers and other law enforcement on Jan. 6, 2021. Despite all the injustice carried out by the Justice Department against Trump, and the department’s failure to prosecute violent rioters on the left, these pardons cannot be defended.)
Trump has promised America a new Golden Age — an age in which American economic, diplomatic and military power will be respected around the world. An America where we will no longer be subject to government censorship and strangling bureaucratic regulations or be defined by race, religion or sexual preference. If he succeeds, it will indeed be an American Golden Age!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Cleaning the 2024 slate is comforting
The beginning of a new year is a chance to clean the slate from 2024 and to look ahead to more positive things. If you have your health, when you aren’t at work, it’s a chance to enjoy taking long walks, squeezing in a vacation and maybe finding a good book to read. But to erase the 2024 board clean, it’s important to get some things off my chest. One of my pet peeves is our national airline system. These days it costs a lot of money to travel almost anywhere in the United States, and we’re often treated like cattle, unless you fly first class. Boarding the plane can be demeaning, and the seats are uncomfortable. For a round-trip costing $800, asking for an extra bag of pretzels shouldn’t be a big deal, but I’ve had a
few turn-downs on flights to Florida. My wife has designated me the family shopper, and I don’t mind the periodic trips to the supermarket. My parents had a grocery store, so I know how to move quickly from aisle to aisle. I’m sure many readers have heard the term “shrinkflation,” which is rampant in supermarkets. Almost every item weighs less and costs more. My favorite boxes of cereal not only weigh half as much, but their contents don’t taste anything like they did when I was a child. Especially Kix and Rice Krispies.
Tgains are anything but.
o get a fresh start in the new year, it’s important to get some things off my chest.
Department store shopping was once an adventure. You could go from floor to floor, and it would take hours to go from the ground floor to the top. The shelves were once stacked with many interesting items, and the quality of the merchandise was pretty good. These days, though, there seem to be many less items for sale, and the so-called bar-
I’ve been a loyal Yankees fan for as long as I can remember. I try to get to at least two or three games a season, but the ticket prices can be staggering. I truly feel bad for a family with young kids who make an annual trip to the ballpark. The hot dogs, pizza and ice cream are costly, and if the kids want a few souvenirs, the outing can costs hundreds of dollars. Baseball owners need the revenues to pay high-priced players, but not everyone can afford to be a talent sponsor.
Going to a movie isn’t what it used to be, either. I recall childhood trips to theaters with my parents that were affordable and frequent. Once upon a time, theatergoers would even get some type of premium for buying a ticket. A movie ticket today can cost over $20, and if you and your companion want popcorn, candy or soda, the price of this night out is pretty high.
There are more things that bug me. I look at Facebook from time to time because it’s nice to see people celebrating happy occasions, but there is no shortage of party-poopers who insist on posting political barbs that are of no interest to most viewers. We’ve just survived a period of intense political bickering, and I’m not anxious to see a Facebook testimonial to a politician who my crazy uncle worships.
I have bad feelings about a lot of people both in and out of the political arena, but we’ll save that for another time. There are things going on right now that I could talk about for hours. I’ve chosen the things that upset all of my friends and neighbors as well, with little or no dissent. I’m sure I skipped over some of your annoyances, but I have a whole year to write about them.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
JERRY KREMER
Dialing up a possible cellphone plan
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s newly unveiled plan to restrict smartphone use in schools across New York state has sparked robust discussion among educators, parents and policymakers.
With the goal of creating distractionfree learning environments, the proposal would direct schools to limit cellphone use throughout the school day while providing practical solutions for communication and storage. The initiative has notable advantages as well as challenges, warranting careful consideration as it moves forward and is considered by the State Legislature.
The primary argument in favor of Hochul’s plan is the undeniable distraction that the phones pose to students. Research consistently shows that smartphones can impede focus, reduce academic performance and foster excessive screen time. By eliminating unsanctioned use of the devices, students would be expected to engage more deeply with their lessons and their peers, improving their classroom experience, their grades and their interpersonal skills.
Hochul’s thinking also aligns with growing concerns about youth mental health. Excessive smartphone use, particularly on social media, has been linked to anxiety, depression and reduced self-esteem among adolescents. The governor’s effort builds on her earlier success in regulating addictive social media feeds for minors, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting the mental well-being of its youth.
The proposal also addresses safety concerns, a priority highlighted by law
letters
Randi shares the joy of books
To the Editor:
enforcement experts. Distracted students are more vulnerable to accidents and less likely to be aware of their surroundings during emergencies. A focus on reducing these distractions could enhance student safety.
Allocating $13.5 million for smartphone storage solutions — such as pouches or cubbies — would ensure that schools, regardless of budget constraints, have access to the resources needed to implement the plan.
Despite its merits, however, the proposal raises several concerns. Chief among them is the potential challenge of enforcing the restrictions uniformly across diverse school settings. Administrators and teachers may find it difficult to monitor compliance, especially in larger schools with limited staff.
The plan also risks alienating students and parents who view cellphones as essential tools for communication and personal safety. While the initiative includes provisions for parents to contact their children during the school day, it may not fully address the anxieties of those who rely on immediate connectivity, particularly in emergencies.
Another issue is the reliance on alternative devices, such as school-issued tablets and laptops, for instruction. While these tools are permitted under the plan, they, too, can be distractions if not properly managed. Critics of Hochul’s plan argue that simply replacing smartphones with other internet-enabled devices may not fully eliminate the problem of divided attention in classrooms.
Exemptions outlined in the proposal — such as those for medical needs or individualized education programs —
Re Randi Kreiss’s recent column, “When was the last time you read a book?”: As she stated, one of the great joys in life is having a wonderful book to read. I never go anywhere without one. I taught English on the junior and high school levels on Long Island for 39 years, and I loved it. I would do it all over again.
The exciting discussions I had with my students triggered by great literature were priceless. I loved teaching “Of Mice and Men”; “The Picture of Dorian Gray”; “Romeo and Juliet”; “The Great Gatsby”; my nominee for the greatest novel of all, “To Kill a Mockingbird”; and many others.
Randi’s statement that in some of the country’s “elite” colleges, many students are neither willing nor able to read the books they are assigned is scary. What does that bode for our future leaders? And presently we have one in the White House who I’ll bet has never read a complete book, including our Constitution.
I belong to a book club in which we read mostly nonfiction and sports, but I also enjoy mysteries and detective novels. I
highlight the necessity of accommodating diverse student populations. Ensuring that these exemptions are applied fairly and without reinforcing stigmas, however, could add complexity to the plan’s implementation.
A strength of the proposal is its flexibility, allowing schools to design their own storage and implementation strategies. This autonomy acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach may not work across New York’s varied educational landscapes. However, the success of this flexibility hinges on clear guidelines and adequate support from the state to help schools navigate potential challenges.
The plan’s focus on equity, including ensuring that students without internetenabled devices are not disadvantaged, demonstrates an awareness of the broader implications of digital access. This consideration is crucial in preventing unintended disparities.
Hochul’s proposal is a bold step toward addressing the challenges of the digital age in education. While its goals are commendable —enhancing focus, promoting mental health and improving safety — it must carefully navigate the concerns of enforcement, equity and parental confidence.
As the state prepares to roll out the measure by the 2025-26 school year, ongoing collaboration with educators, parents and students will be essential to refine it, and ensure its effectiveness. With a proper balance of structure and flexibility, the initiative has the potential to foster a more focused, healthier and distraction-free learning environment for New York’s students.
Long Island gets shortchanged on transportation funding
over a decade ago, the Long Island Regional Planning Council recognized a critical issue: Long Island’s transportation funding and planning processes were failing to meet the growing demands of our region. In response, we proposed the creation of a dedicated Nassau-Suffolk Metropolitan Planning Organization. Unfortunately, that never happened. Now, 10 years later, the situation has worsened, and investment in transportation on Long Island continues to be shortchanged.
JoHn D. Cameron Jr.
Long Island’s share of transportation funding has steadily declined, a trend that has become more alarming over time. Today, the region receives just 6 percent of the money allocated by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council, which primarily serves the interests of New York City. Long Island is forced to compete for resources with the city, leaving our region underfunded and unable to meet its infrastructure needs. This funding disparity is particularly troubling given Long Island’s economic significance. As New York state’s second-largest economic engine, Long
Island plays a crucial role in its financial health. Each year, Long Island sends nearly $15 billion more in tax payments to Albany than it gets back, and an additional $27 billion to Washington. The state’s tax imbalance with Long Island has doubled over the past decade, worsening an already unsustainable situation. If left unaddressed, it threatens Long Island’s economy and its ability to sustain residents’ high quality of life.
and crucial projects remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization.
The consequences of this inequity are visible in our daily lives. Congested highways, deteriorating bridges and inadequate public transportation aren’t just inconvenient; they hinder economic growth, erode quality of life and compromise public safety. Crucial projects aimed at addressing these issues — from modernizing the Long Island Rail Road to alleviating notorious traffic bottlenecks — remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization. The current system is failing, and the need for change has never been more urgent.
One of the most effective ways to address this problem is by establishing a Nassau-Suffolk MPO, which would allow Long Island to apply directly for federal transportation funds. It would bypass the bureaucratic delays at the state level, ensuring that funding is allocated
Letters
am currently reading “All the Sinners Bleed,” by S.A. Cosby. A sheriff in Charon County, Virginia, with a very unpleasant case. Cosby is a terrific writer. Thanks to Randi for her other suggestions. I hope she has fun teaching the class.
JIM HAWkINS Baldwin
Randi’s given me some catching up to do
To the Editor:
I’ve been reading Randi’s columns in the Herald for years, and enjoying her take on everything, as well as her style. I am 81. Been reading since I was a single digit. My first novel was “Black Beauty,” by Anna Sewell, which I read when I was about 7.
I’ve read 135 books in each of the past two years, and I’m going to look into all the books in Randi’s curriculum, because I find I’ve read maybe one, “Of Mice and Men,” when I was way younger. Lol. No matter what, I’m going to tackle her list. I hope they don’t have to be read in that order, because I’ve chosen “The Wren, the Wren” to be my first.
RINA COHEN East Meadow
to projects that best meet our region’s needs. Smaller areas, such as Ithaca, have had their own MPOs for years and have benefited significantly from direct access to funding. Long Island, with a population of nearly 3 million and an economy that rivals that of many states, deserves to be treated with the same attention and respect.
The need for a NassauSuffolk MPO extends beyond simply fixing roads and bridges. It’s about taking control of our region’s future and ensuring that its transportation infrastructure supports longterm economic growth and innovation. In today’s global economy, transportation is the backbone of a thriving region. Without a dedicated MPO, Long Island’s potential for growth is stifled, and the region risks falling further behind in an increasingly competitive landscape.
The Long Island Regional Planning Council first raised this issue because we understood the long-term consequences of continued disinvestment. Over the past decade, those consequences have become painfully clear. Our transportation infrastructure is deteriorating, and other critical areas of need, such as affordable housing and the modernization of water systems, roads, bridges and power grids, remain neglected. These issues require both
state and federal support, and Long Island’s fair share of transportation funding is a critical first step in addressing them.
Thankfully, there is hope for change. Thanks to the leadership of State Sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern, legislation has been introduced to establish a Nassau-Suffolk MPO. This is a significant step toward securing that transportation funding. It would give our region the ability to prioritize projects that are critical to our local economy and residents, ensuring that Long Island’s transportation needs are no longer overshadowed by the priorities of New York City or other areas of the state.
The establishment of a Nassau-Suffolk MPO wouldn’t be just a policy change — it would be a commitment to the future of our region. Long Island deserves safe roads, efficient public transit and infrastructure that supports economic growth and opportunity. We have waited long enough. The time for action is now.
Long Island has the potential to be a leading force in the state’s economy, but that potential cannot be realized without the right infrastructure. Establishing a Nassau-Suffolk MPO is a critical step in ensuring that Long Island receives the resources it needs to thrive. It’s time for our region to earn its fair share.
John D. Cameron Jr. is chairman of the Long Island Regional Planning Council.
Clavin’s ‘poorly handled,’ double-digit tax increase
To the Editor:
Town Supervisor Don Clavin’s proposed 12.1 percent property tax increase for 2025 represents a glaring failure of financial management. This steep hike places an unreasonable and unnecessary burden on the residents of the Town of Hempstead.
Such a dramatic increase reflects Clavin’s inability to implement sound, long-term financial planning. A more responsible approach would have been to distribute any necessary increases gradually over several years, avoiding the current financial strain on our community.
What is even more troubling than the tax hike itself is the lack of proper notice for town residents. Clavin’s administration failed to adequately inform citizens through mail, email or social media about this significant change. Ironically, the same administration had no issue filling our mailboxes with partisan mailers on other topics. This lack of transparency and accountability is both surprising and unacceptable.
It’s true that, given the inflationary pressures of recent years, modest tax increases may be necessary to cover ris-
ing costs essential for maintaining services like trash collection, recycling, parks and water management. These are critical responsibilities of our town board. However, many of our neighbors are struggling to make ends meet. To impose a sudden, substantial tax hike without sufficient notice is a disservice to the very people the town government is meant to serve.
Clavin owes the residents of the Town of Hempstead not only a detailed explanation, but also a sincere apology for this poorly handled tax increase. Transparency and thoughtful planning should be the standard — not afterthoughts.
Framework by Diane Revinskas
At the Knossos Palace — Crete, Greece
PETROS kROMMIDAS Baldwin
