They’re long Island’s best
Wantagh High School’s girls’ basketball team captured its first-ever Long Island championship last Saturday with a 54-40 Class A win over Mount Sinai at Farmingdale State College. Story, more photos, Page 12.
Science academy expands with new lab Wantagh students dive into research with high-tech resources
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Students at Wantagh High School who want to learn how scientists conduct research now have the opportunity, thanks to a new state-of-the-art science research classroom.
Located on the second floor of the high school, the room features updated equipment to support students in the Science Research Academy, a four-year program, introduced in the fall of 2023, in which they conduct research with the goal of submitting their work to science competitions. The classroom was funded with a $250,000 grant from the State Senate.
Christopher Kozak, the district’s director of STEM programming for grades six through high school, said the new room is a fully functional lab equipped with weight scales, pipettes, centrifuges, gas connections for Bunsen burners and fume and vacuum hoods to aid students in their research.
“We’re just trying to give students variations
of different kinds of experiments that they can conduct within the constraints of what we can have in our K-through-12,” Kozak said.
Teachers, parents, administrators, and Board of Education trustees attended the classroom’s grand opening on Feb. 26. Before it was built, Science Research Academy students worked in the high school’s chemistry classrooms. Kozak said they began using the new research room the following day.
The program launched in the 2023-24 school year with 18 freshmen, and has grown to 32 students this year, Kozak said. More than 60 students are enrolled across freshman to junior courses for next year, according to the district.
Principal Paul Guzzone said the program has been growing in popularity since its inception.
“How it has exploded far exceeds what we could have ever thought,” he said.
Guzzone added that he looked forward to seeing the first group of Academy students become seniors in two years, and compete in high-level
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Cheer coach goes out on top
Seaford squad wins its first national title in Lisa Ferrari’s final season
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Lisa Ferrari capped off her impressive 17-year career as head coach of the Seaford High School varsity cheer team by winning its first-ever national championship last month.
Ferrari’s tenure has been defined by a dedication to pushing her team to new heights. This year, the Seaford team reached the pinnacle, taking the Traditional Division II Small Varsity title at the Universal Cheerleaders Association National High School Cheerleading Championship, held Feb. 7-10 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
Compared to other teams, we looked like we were genuinely having fun.
In December, Seaford claimed the New York State Public High School Athletic Association’s Division II Small Varsity championship, marking the team’s second consecutive state title. The team comprises 21 athletes who spend three hours a day, six days a week, perfecting their routines. Competing at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton, the Vikings delivered a dominant performance in the finals, edging out top-ranked squads, including Sachem East and West Genesee, to secure back-to-back wins.
HAylEy KERN
Seaford High School varsity cheerleader
For Ferrari, winning nationals was a surreal experience, especially after securing a state championship just a few months earlier.
“It’s like that elusive dream — something you always hope for and reach for,” Ferrari said, “but you don’t know if it will ever actually happen.”
In Florida, Seaford competed against 96 teams in its division, continuing the annual tradition of appearing at nationals under Ferrari since 2012. After placing second last year, the Vikings secured first place in their preliminary bracket, allowing them to bypass the semifinals for the first time in program history. They advanced straight to the finals, where they delivered a
Continued on page 7
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MacArthur senior wins sixth place in science competition
Melody Heeju Hong, a senior at General Douglas MacArthur High School in Levittown, has placed sixth in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search, earning an $80,000 award.
Hong was recognized for developing a flexible statistical model to map transmethylation quantitative trait loci (transmQTL) within the human genome, a key step in understanding how genes and the environment interact in aging and disease.
She was among 40 finalists honored at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., where more than $1.8 million in prizes were awarded. The Regeneron competition, now in its 84th year, is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math contest for high school seniors.
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For Hong, the achievement is the culmination of years of dedication and a passion for research.
“I thought it would just be great to become part of such a really talented community of young people,” she said to the Herald.
— Charles Shaw
MacArthur
Hong placed sixth in the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search, earning an $80,000 award for her research on genetic mapping.
News briefs Fundraisers to honor William Desroches
Wantagh High School’s Key Club is hosting a movie night fundraiser to benefit the Will Desroches Foundation. The event will take place on Wednesday, March 26, at 6 p.m. at the Bellmore Playhouse.
Attendees will enjoy a screening of Disney’s Snow White, with tickets priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Each ticket includes popcorn and a drink. Proceeds will support the foundation’s mission.
Another fundraiser in memory of William Desroches will be held on Thursday, May 8, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. The event will
feature live music by Vinyl Revival, raffles, and live auctions. Funds raised will go toward building a new soccer and lacrosse field at Forest Lake Elementary School to honor Desroches, a beloved teen who died in 2023.
Tickets for the May 8 event are $75 and include food and drinks, with an open bar for adults 21 and over. For more information, visit william.desroch.es/foundation.com. For questions about the movie night, contact Alexis Valentino at valentinoa@wantaghschools.org or Heidi Felix at hfelix@lifevac.net.
— Charles Shaw
Andersen heads to NCAA tournament
Meghan Andersen, a sophomore guard/forward at Fairfield University in Connecticut and a Wantagh native, is making her second straight NCAA Tournament appearance.
Andersen, who played high school basketball at Our Lady of Mercy in Syosset, was named an All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference first-team selection this season. The reigning MAAC Rookie of the Year and one of two returning players from last season’s first team, Andersen continued to make an impact in 2024-25. According to MAAC’s website, she averaged 15.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.3
steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. She led the conference in field goal percentage (.491) while ranking fourth in total points and sixth in points per game, the website states. Andersen was also among the MAAC’s top three-point shooters, hitting 60 total threes at a .377 clip, averaging 2.07 per game. Defensively, she recorded 41 blocks, ranking fourth in the league with 1.41 per game. Fairfield, the MAAC champion and No. 12 seed in the Spokane Region 4, will face No. 5 Kansas State on Friday at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky.
Courtesy Levittown Public Schools
High School senior Melody Heeju
— Charles Shaw
things to know seal of Biliteracy
Seniors recognized for multilingual achievements
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
A six-year journey into world languages is culminating in a special honor for 23
n A prestigious recognition for language proficiency
The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language. At Wantagh High School, 23 seniors have earned this honor, which will be affixed to their diplomas in June. The district has participated in the program since 2018.
Wantagh High School seniors. These students have earned the Seal of Biliteracy, a prestigious designation recognizing their proficiency in English and another language. Their names will be added to a school plaque, and the seal will be affixed to their diplomas at graduation.
n A rigorous process with cultural research
To earn the Seal, students complete independent research projects in both English and their chosen world language, comparing cultural aspects between the United States and another country. This is in addition to their Advanced Placement or college-level coursework. Topics ranged from cultural differences between twins in Spain and the United States to deforestation in France and America.
n
A lasting legacy at Wantagh High School
Recipients of the Seal of Biliteracy have studied French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. This year’s honorees include Evelyn Caputo, Ashley Fox, Shareef McMillan and Shannon Quinn for French; Sabrina Albano, Stephen Albano, Michael Avitable, Michael Colaianni, Damien Crowley and Francesco Pellicoro for Italian; Brianna Henriques for Portuguese; and Melanie Alvarado, Emma Colaco, Haley Fahey, Alexandra Gaal, Isabella Kugal, Samantha Magri, Skylar Mondelli, Maeve McGlade, Peyton Naus, Ava Padula, Isabella Sclafani and Evelyn Susco for Spanish. Their names will be added to a plaque displayed near the world language classrooms, recognizing their hard work and dedication to multilingualism.
Sen. Rhoads announces scholarships for students
New York State Sen. Steve Rhoads announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is accepting applications for two $3,000 scholarships for students in the 5th Senate District, which includes Wantagh, Seaford, Levittown, Bellmore, Merrick and East Meadow. The scholarships are open to high school seniors preparing to enter college and current college students.
“This is an excellent scholarship opportunity for high school seniors and college students in the 5th Senate District who have worked hard, distinguished themselves from their peers, and intend to pursue higher education,” Rhoads said. “With college costs continually rising, this is a chance to lessen the financial burden that is a concern for so many young people and their families. I encourage eligible students in my district to apply.”
Applicants must have a grade point average of 85 or higher, demonstrate financial need, and be actively involved in community service and extracurricular activities. Athletic scholarship applicants must also participate in an organized sport.
The deadline to apply is March 30. Winners will be announced in April and should plan to attend the Italian-American Day Celebration in Albany on May 19, where they will receive their awards.
The New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is a bipartisan organization of state Assembly and Senate members dedicated to promoting and celebrating the state’s Italian American community.
Applications are available at nyiacsl.org.
— Charles Shaw
State Sen. Steve Rhoads announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is offering two $3,000 scholarships for students in the 5th Senate District, with applications due by March 30.
Courtesy office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads
Blakeman’s State of the County address
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman doubled down on his administration’s commitment to public safety, law enforcement, and conservative governance in his State of the County address on March 13. Speaking before a packed crowd at the County Legislature chambers in Mineola, Blakeman touted Nassau’s status as the safest county in America, and reinforced his opposition to sanctuary policies, transgender athletes in women’s sports, and public mask-wearing outside of health emergencies.
“One of my first executive orders as county executive was to declare that Nassau County is not a sanctuary county,” Blakeman said. He emphasized his administration’s collaboration with federal immigration officials, saying that Nassau is the first county in the U.S. to have a cooperation agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “To that end, we are working with ICE and our other federal law enforcement partners to remove or incarcerate those who commit criminal acts and live in the U.S. illegally,” he added.
Blakeman also announced plans to increase law enforcement staffing, promising to hire additional officers in the coming years. “I have hired over 300 new police officers and corrections officers in the last three years, and this year we will be hiring more,” he said. His proposed capital plan includes investments in police equipment, technology, body armor and vehicles, and he urged the Legislature to pass it at its next meeting.
Blakeman’s speech echoed themes from previous addresses and his campaign rhetoric, emphasizing his administration’s firm stance on several controversial policies. He highlighted his role in banning transgen-
by Joan Chittister
der athletes from competing in women’s sports on county property, a measure that has sparked legal challenges.
“We will not allow our girls to be bullied into unsafe and unfair competition and have their privacy violated,” he stated. “In Nassau, boys play with boys, and girls play with girls.”
He also defended his ban on public mask-wearing, a measure he claims is aimed at preventing crime and antisemitism. “These criminals and cowards are not welcome in Nassau County,” he said.
Gift of Years”
Your writer was grateful to find author Chittister’s book, subtitled “Growing Old Gracefully”, written by her at age seventy, the same age as your writer.
Inevitably, we come to see things differently as we age. In “The Gift of Years” these changes in the “capstone years” as she calls them, present the gift of becoming more fully alive than ever. Cicero notes that old age is richer in reflection, force of character and judgement. The maturity and mellowing of character allows the older generation to provide a behavioral model for younger generations showing them the way to a fullness of life.
Seneca said these years abound with pleasure if we know how to use them. Free of obligations and deadlines, there is freshness in these years. Understanding, enjoyment and love of life all increase, allowing for deeper, richer and more important experiences. The world looks different — more to be treasured,
explored and enjoyed. A certain serenity sets in.
Chittister writes “But we are here to depart from this world as finished as we can possibly become. Old age is...exactly the time to grow in new ways [making] sense out of all the growing we have already done. It is the softening season when everything in us is meant to achieve its sweetest, richest, most unique self”.
Chittister calls it a damping-down time of life where anger, jealousy, envy, and pride subside to awaken another whole level of life. “As Agatha Christie put it, we ‘bloom’ as we grow. New abilities emerge, new insights arise. New vision is possible.”
A certain urgency and intensity in living sets in as we become aware of the presence of time. With forty short chapters on subjects such as Regret, Joy, Possibility, Letting Go, Success, Wisdom, Time and Appreciation, “The Gift of Years” provides an indispensable guide to aging well.
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Beyond law enforcement, Blakeman promoted the county’s economic strength, attributing its prosperity to low taxes and business-friendly policies. He pledged that for the fourth consecutive year, his proposed budget would not raise property taxes, despite inflation. “Every day, I wake up with only one thought,” he said. “And that is your safety, health, and economic security.”
Blakeman also spoke of his commitment to saving Nassau University Medical Center, describing it as the county’s “safety net hospital.” The financially struggling facility is currently suing the state for $1 billion in funding.
Additionally, he highlighted the county’s cultural diversity, citing efforts such as a Feliz Navidad event, a Ramadan celebration, and a Black gospel performance as examples of his administration’s outreach to different communities. He also boasted of hosting major public concerts featuring Ja Rule and Steve Aoki.
Blakeman’s speech was met with sharp criticism from Legislator Seth Koslow, the Democratic challenger in the upcoming county executive race. Koslow dismissed many of Blakeman’s claims, particularly on property tax assessments, police staffing, and infrastructure investment.
“The fact that he could look Nassau County residents in the face and say he fixed the assessment system is unbelievable,” Koslow told the Herald after Blakeman’s speech. “He has done nothing to make it better.” Koslow accused Blakeman of keeping the tax rolls frozen since 2020 to benefit politically connected tax certiorari firms.
Beyond public safety, Koslow took aim at infrastructure neglect, claiming that Blakeman has ignored the county’s pothole problems and has not addressed illegal red-light camera fees that courts have ruled improper.
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County Executive Bruce Blakeman met with police officers as he reaffirmed his support for law enforcement.
Book Review:
Youthful Hofstra shoots for CAA run
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Hofstra women’s lacrosse team opened 2025 in the heart of winter on Feb. 7 with high hopes for a memorable season that will end in the warmth of spring.
An 11-6 win against Long Island University in the season opener began a stretch of four straight wins to open the new campaign following a nine-win 2024 season in which the Pride reached the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) semifinals stage. Much of the pieces were
lost however from the 2024 squad including around 70 percent of its offensive production.
“Our motto this year has just been taking it day by day looking and for our team to get better each day,” said 13th-year head coach Shannon Smith.
“Every day we’re in the trenches together, getting better, growing as a unit, both defensively, offensively and collectively as a team.”
Hofstra still returned some key pieces from last year led by red-shirt sophomore attacker
Nikki Mennella, who tallied 44
points on 24 goals and 20 assists through her first seven games. She has earned CAA player of the week honors three times including on March 10 after a five-point performance in a narrow 11-8 loss to Big Ten foe Rutgers and six goals in a 18-6 rout of Wagner.
“She has the willpower to win and is super competitive,” said Smith of Menalla, who also leads the team in draw controls with 38. “She plays with so much fire and passion.”
Mennella spearheads an offense with multiple scoring weapons including freshman
attacker Kayleigh Bender, who is second on the team in points with 27-. The Pride have also gotten offensive production early from sophomore Kristen Redding, junior Julia Harris, senior Megan Flannery and graduate student Angelica Sparacio, who previously played at Quinnipiac.
The Hofstra defense also boasts plenty of athleticism anchored by sophomore Christine Dannenfelser, who has garnered CAA Defensive Player of the Week twice this season.
The Bayport-Blue Point product registered six draw controls and two ground balls in Hofstra’s near upset of Rutgers.
“She is a sophomore captain and the team really looks up to her,” said Smith of Dannenfelser. “She is fiery and plays with
a lot of passion.”
Dannenfelser leads a defensive unit that includes seniors Brynn Hepting and Emily Weigand along with sophomore Natalie Little. Junior Luchianna Cardello, a former Massapequa High School standout, is starting her third season in net and recorded 12 saves in the narrow Rutgers loss. Hofstra, which opened the CAA schedule with a 15-9 loss to Delaware last Friday, will look to rebound this weekend with road games Friday at William & Mary and Sunday at Elon. The Pride, who are looking to finish in the top four in the league to earn a bid to CAA playoffs, will conclude the regular season with a home game against Long Island rival Stony Brook on April 26 at 7 p.m.
Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications
Sophomore defender Christine Dannenfelser has garnered CAA Defensive Player of the Week twice already this season.
Cheer team sends coach off with national title
strong performance to win their first-ever national championship.
Cheerleader Codi Kasparian, a senior, reflected on the victory, expressing how much it meant to the team after months of dedication and perseverance.
“It just felt like all the hard work that we did all season finally paid off,” Kasparian said, “and all the other people that didn’t believe in us that we could do it, it showed them that we could.”
Seaford qualified for nationals by competing in regional events and earning a bid from the Universal Cheerleaders Association. In December, the team participated in the Pocono regionals and Empire regionals, winning both to secure a spot at the national competition.
Ferrari acknowledged the difficulties of a long season but credited her athletes for their dedication and perseverance.
“It’s a long season, but it speaks to their commitment as athletes,” she said. “They set a goal and didn’t let injuries or illnesses keep them from achieving it.”
Throughout the season, the team faced several setbacks, including shoulder and ankle injuries to team members. Senior Hayley Kern has been recovering from a torn labrum she sustained two years ago.
“Every practice is hard,” Kern said, “but I wanted to push through because I wanted to get this chance to go down to nationals and have the chance of winning.”
Cheerleader Melissa Phieffer said the team focused on maintaining confidence and energy throughout the competition. With cameras on them during warm-ups and right before taking the stage, they reminded one another to stay positive and not let nerves take over.
“Compared to other teams, we looked like we were genuinely having fun,” Kern said. “There was not one
moment during the routine that it was like, ‘What are they doing?’ We always looked like we were having fun, like we owned our routine.”
Ferrari described herself as a tough coach who challenges her athletes to push past their limits. She emphasized the importance of having a coach who believes in them, encouraging them to trust in themselves, their teammates, and their ability to succeed.
“I see the potential in them that they might not even see themselves,” Ferrari said. “I really do try to push them outside of their comfort zone to achieve those potentials.”
This is Ferrari’s final season as head coach, as she plans to spend more time with her family. In addition
the Seaford varsity cheer team celebrated after winning the traditional division ii Small Varsity title at the uCa national High School Cheerleading Championship, in florida, the program’s first-ever national championship.
to coaching, she teaches AP U.S. History and criminal justice at Seaford High School. Her athletes said they were motivated to finish the season strong for her, recognizing the impact she has had on the program.
“She always shows up, and for the past 17 years, she built the program basically from the ground up to make us who we are,” Kasparian said. “We wouldn’t be who we are without her and how she coaches.”
Ferrari expressed immense pride in her team’s accomplishments, particularly the national title.
“It’s a testament to the girls that are on the team,” she said. “They set their mind to something, and they were able to succeed. I couldn’t be more proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
Courtesy Lisa Ferrari
Tens of thousands attend St. Pat’s Day parade
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Tens of thousands of spectators lined the streets of Wantagh on Sunday, March 16, for the community’s fifth annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The event, which has grown into one of Long Island’s largest, featured a lineup of local organizations, marching bands, and first responders.
Fire departments from Wantagh, Seaford, Levittown, Bellmore, Merrick, and East Meadow were among those participating. Law enforcement agencies, veterans’ groups, and Irish cultural organizations also marched, along with local schools and businesses.
The parade stepped off from Wantagh High School, proceeding south on Wantagh Avenue before concluding at Park Avenue. This year’s grand marshal was Tommy Shevlin, president of the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association. A former Wantagh resident, Shevlin was recognized for his contributions to law enforcement and advocacy for officer mental health support.
He served in law enforcement for over 26 years, working in both the New York City and Nassau County police departments. Before becoming PBA president in 2022, he was a counselor in the Nassau County Police Department’s Employee Assistance Office, where he focused on providing mental health support to officers.
At a March 4 dinner honoring him as the grand marshal, Shevlin said he was honored to lead the parade. Around 200 guests gathered at the event, held at the Heritage Club in Bethpage, to see Shevlin take
ConTInueD on Page 9
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Tommy Shevlin, this year’s grand marshal for Wantagh’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, marched through the streets on March 16.
This year’s grand marshal, Tommy Shevlin, second from right, with friends, family and Wantagh Chamber of Commerce members, who organized one of Long Island’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades.
The Wantagh Fire Department brought out their trucks for the parade.
even the grinch embraced the Irish spirit, waving from a Jeep in a leprechaun hat.
among the parade marchers were the Levittown Pride Cubs, recent champions at the universal Cheerleading association’s national Championships.
emerald Society pipes and drums band entertained the crowd with a lively performance.
Festivities fill Wantagh’s streets with Irish pride
his place as grand marshal, following in the footsteps of those who lead the march before him.
“I hope to make everybody proud, especially the former grand marshals,” he said. “They are some great men around here.”
Past grand marshals of the Wantagh St. Patrick’s Day Parade have included local business owners, community leaders, and first responders. Among them are John Murray Jr., owner of Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall; Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder; Michael Dunphy, owner of the Wantagh Inn; and John Theissen, founder of the John Theissen Children’s Foundation. Each has been recognized for their contributions to the community, a tradition that continued this year with Shevlin leading the parade.
After the parade, celebrations continued with two block parties: the Railroad Avenue Block Party, sponsored by the Superior Officers Association, and another in the Park Avenue back lot, hosted by Lifestyles Sports. Both events featured live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Wantagh Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the parade, noted the event’s continued growth and strong community involvement.
parade participants got creative with their floats, including a dinosaur display from the John theissen
a lucky leprechaun waves to the crowd.
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Vintage cars rolled through the parade, decorated in festive green.
Children’s foundation.
Wantagh Lions Club members waved to the crowd from their float during the Wantagh St. patrick’s day parade.
Students take science research to next level
science competitions.
Students in the program conduct experiments in biology, chemistry and genetics. As freshmen, they take a foundations course, in which they learn how to conduct research by studying doctoral-level scientific papers. As sophomores, they are introduced to research methodology and begin conducting experiments in the classroom. At this stage they are encouraged to develop their own project ideas.
The first two years, according to Kozak, introduce students to basic studies and the formulation of scientific questions. “It’s just making them familiar with what research looks like, and how to look at something and try to decipher and break it down,” he said.
As juniors and seniors, students further develop their experiments, formulate their own research questions and takeaways, and connect with professional researchers. Kozak said the program differs from a traditional science course because it encourages students to be innovative and understand why things happen, rather than simply studying information for tests.
“That helps them develop their projects for competitions,” he said. “It also helps them develop their portfolio for applying to colleges.”
Kozak added that he hoped the new space would help prepare students for science competitions. One of the goals of the program, he said, is for students to submit their research to the Regeneron Science Talent Search, a national research competition, by their senior year.
According to the district, freshmen Academy students are taking part in the Toshiba ExploraVision competition, which challenges them to research cur-
Wantagh School district officials and teachers gathered on feb. 26 to celebrate the grand opening of the high school’s new science research classroom. the state-of-the-art lab was built for the Science research academy, a four-year program in which students learn to conduct independent research and take part in science competitions.
rent technology and envision its advancement 10 or more years into the future. Sophomores are entering Barcode Long Island, a student research program that uses DNA barcoding to study and document biodiversity on Long Island through hands-on experiments and scientific mentorship.
“It’s just amazing,” Guzzone said of the program. “It has all the resources and tools that our kids need to explore their passions in science research at a high level.”
Kozak highlighted how the students develop research skills early, presenting findings and collaborating with peers as early as ninth grade. These experiences, he said, help them build communication skills valued by colleges and employers, who seek people who can not only understand science but also convey their work effectively.
“It’s growing so fast, and it’s just incredible,” Kozak said. “Seeing everything progress so quickly is really rewarding. We put a lot of work into this program.”
Cooking corned beef for a good cause
A friendly culinary competition brought Nassau County officials together ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, as town supervisors and a city mayor went head-to-head in the annual “Corned Beef Cook-Off for a Cause.” The event, held at The Milleridge Inn, raised funds for Hooks for Heroes, a nonprofit that supports American veterans and first responders coping with physical and mental injuries.
The cook-off featured Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joe Saladino, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jen DeSena, and Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, each preparing their take on the classic Irish dish. Nassau District Attorney Anne Donnelly, County Clerk Maureen O’Connell, Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, and Oyster Bay Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato served as judges.
“One of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is by competing in the ‘Corned Beef Cook-Off for a Cause,’” Clavin said. “Guests at the event enjoyed some delicious corned beef, and the officials helped raise money for an organization that helps our veterans and first responders.”
The event’s host, Butch Yamali, owner of The Milleridge Inn, expressed his enthusiasm. “I love St. Patrick’s Day, and I can’t think of a better way to make the holiday even more special than by raising financial support for our heroes who are suffering from PTSD and other serious challenges,” he said.
Each competitor had their eyes on the top prize, with some hoping to reclaim past victories.
“I love this event, and I am eager to celebrate the season by helping support our brave veterans, firefighters, police officers, and other first responders,” Saladino said. “What’s more, I am hoping to reclaim the crown for the best corned beef, which I won a couple of years ago.”
DeSena acknowledged the tough competition but focused on the cause. “While I have never won the ‘Corned Beef Cook-Off for a Cause’ competition, I am always gratified to raise money for a worthy cause,” she said.
Hooks for Heroes provides stress therapy through fishing trips, helping veterans and first responders manage the effects of servicerelated injuries.
The event’s judges not only sampled the corned beef but also praised the initiative.
“Corned beef never tasted better,” O’Connell said. “The love and caring that goes into each dish, as well as the warm wishes for our heroes, make this the best St. Patrick’s event anywhere.”
Phillips emphasized the event’s impact. “Hooks for Heroes is doing some very important work, and the Corned Beef Cook-Off is a fun way to raise money for this worthy organization,” she said.
James Torborg, president of Hooks for Heroes, expressed gratitude for the support. “The Hooks for Heroes organization is grateful for the efforts of these elected officials,” he said. “For those who wish to support our mission, they can visit www.hooksforheroes.org.”
For those interested in learning more about Hooks for Heroes, visit HooksForHeroes.org.
— Jordan Vallone
Courtesy Wantagh School District
Courtesy Town of Hempstead nassau County officials took part in the Corned Beef Cook-off for a Cause event, held at the milleridge inn. it raised funds for Hooks for Heroes, a nonprofit that supports american veterans and first responders coping with physical and mental injuries.
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Historic L.I. championship for Wantagh
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Five days after completing a rare high school sports trifecta with back-toback-to-back Nassau County championships in lacrosse, soccer and basketball over a nine-month span, Wantagh seniors Juliana Cerasi and Riley Forthofer helped lead the girls’ hoops program to a historic accomplishment.
The Warriors outscored Mount Sinai in all four quarters last Saturday night at Farmingdale State College on the way to a convincing 54-40 victory in the Long Island Class A title game. Sophomore Kayla Mannix scored 14 of her gamehigh 18 points in the second half, freshman Isabelle Ferraro added 13 and Cerasi chipped in 8 as Wantagh claimed its first-ever L.I. championship.
“It’s a really special group of girls
who have great chemistry and know what it takes to win,” longtime head coach Stan Bujacich said. “They love each other and come to work every day. Tonight’s game plan was to play defense, move the ball to the open spots and rebound, rebound, rebound.”
Cerasi’s basket late in the first quarter gave the Warriors a 9-7 lead and they never looked back. Bujacich stressed her strong defensive effort against Mount Sinai junior Mia Betancourt, who was held to half of her scoring average finishing with 10 points.
“Juliana’s one of the best defensive players in the county and she showed it again tonight,” Bujacich said.
Wantagh, which upset top-seeded Lynbrook March 10 in the Nassau Class A final on Forthofer’s layup with 7.7 seconds remaining, improved to 22-2 and heads to Hudson Valley Community Col-
lege for the state Final Four where it’ll meet Albany Academy in the semifinals Friday at 1:30 p.m.
“We weren’t able to win our Long Island games in lacrosse and soccer, so coming into tonight we really didn’t want to go 0-3,” Forthofer said. “We kept saying ‘third time’s a charm’ all week and we did it. It’s insane.”
The Warriors had to navigate around first-half foul trouble for Mannix, who picked up her third personal with 4:27 still remaining in the second quarter and her team clinging to a 15-11 lead.
Then Ferraro nailed her second of four 3’s in the game and sophomore Ella Perfetti provided some quality minutes off the bench as Wantagh not only held steady but pushed its advantage to 22-13 by halftime.
“We were in a good place but we weren’t taking anything for granted,”
Cerasi said. “Coach Stan is so focused on the game and always has us prepared for our opponent. We felt good the whole time. We just had to keep working.”
Ferraro dialed long distance twice in the third quarter and scored seven points while Mannix returned to add five as the Warriors inched closer to the finish line with a 36-24 lead through three quarters.
Freshman Makayla McNeil opened the fourth with a trey and the rest was history. Forthofer had 6 points and sophomore Sabrina Asadurian added 4.
“We have such great chemistry and this feels great because we’ve been working towards it for so long,” Ferraro said.
Wantagh’s girls’ lacrosse team was the No. 2 seed last spring when it won the Nassau Class C title 11-10 over Manhasset. Its soccer team was seeded third and edged North Shore in the Class A county final, 1-0, on a goal by Mannix. And seeded No. 2 in basketball, it avenged a pair of regular-season defeats to Lynbrook to win its first county title in almost 20 years.
“In all three county championship games we were the underdog and that’s the best part,” Cerasi said.
Media Origin Inc./Herald photos
Wantagh seniors Riley Forthofer, left, and Juliana Cerasi displayed Wantagh’s Long Island championship hardware along with head coach Stan Bujacich.
Freshman Isabelle Ferraro hit four 3’s and scored 13 points in last Saturday’s 54-40 win over Mount Sinai.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Either writing about pets or looking out for them
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Continuing a month-long series of interviews with influential area women in honor of Women’s History Month. Joanne Anderson writes the “Pets, Pets, Pets” column for the Babylon Herald Beacon, is the outreach coordinator for Last Hope Animal Rescue, is a member of the League for Animal Protection and volunteers for the Babylon Animal Shelter.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Anderson: I have always loved dogs. Both of my grandmothers were dog fanatics. I remember when I was 5 years old, I went to a barbecue with my family and there was an Afghan hound there. I saw its beautiful coat and thought how magical it looked to me. A love for animals is definitely in my DNA.
Herald: Why do you do what you do?
Anderson: I was an elementary school teacher for 33 years in the William Floyd School District, but I became involved with the Babylon Animal Shelter and animal advocacy after seeing an Afghan hound in the back of a police car. I knew who the dog belonged to for a while, but the officer said that the family didn’t want the dog back.
I had never been in a town shelter before, and when I went to the Babylon Animal Shelter, over 40 years ago, I saw that it was packed with dogs, two to a cage, and many were sick, with no protection against germ spreading. The shelters have come a long way, but that day I took home the Afghan, Alfie. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have gone into the shelter and wanted to get
involved. He opened my eyes. Shortly after, I joined the League for Animal Protection.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Anderson: The challenge is worrying that all the animals that have been saved are only the tip of the iceberg — what about the ones we don’t find? There are a zillion places that haven’t been touched yet. What keeps me going is that all of these animals we do find and save are given the chance at a better life because we inter-
vened, and it’s incredible to sometimes hear from the families afterward (about) the life the pets are now living.
Herald: What have been the proudest moments in your life?
Anderson: It’s hearing about the animals from the shelter and their lives afterward. It’s knowing that some were absolutely starving, and that’s never going to happen to them again. A lot of them go on to do therapy work as well. Two of my Afghans did therapy work for years, and people who would never talk would all of a sudden start because of the dogs. It’s the team — the dogs have to be placed in the right hands to bring out their potential.
Herald: What advice do you have to offer? What work is left to be done?
Anderson: The world of animal shelters has (come) so far, and while it’s difficult seeing the animals in cages initially, they’re doing much better now. We also have a new thrift store in Huntington, on New York Avenue, called Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift and Treasures. What I love about the store is that it’s the ultimate recycling venture. You’re taking what people don’t want anymore, and the money is going toward spaying, neutering, taking in more dogs, surgeries, etc.
Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift and Treasures is at 310 New York Ave. in Huntington. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is currently seeking volunteers. For more about Last Hope Animal Rescue, visit lasthopeanimalrescue.org, email info@lasthopeanimalrescue.org or call (631) 425-1884.
Lifting girls up with leadership and opportunity
By KELSIE RADZISKI
kradziski@liherald.com
Renee Daniel Flagler is executive director of Girls Inc. of Long Island.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Flagler: I’ve always been very involved in community service, which is what attracted me to Girls Inc. as an employer in the first place. I’ve always had a special affinity to helping open doors for youth and to serve youth to ensure that they have the access and exposure and opportunities. So I started working with youth just from a volunteer perspective, over 20 years ago. By 2011, I was fully working with young people, and not just volunteering, but working with organizations that served youth. I was a writer, and I was teaching writing programs with the Department of Education and different programs like drug treatment programs in prisons and schools and camps and every type of youth.
Herald: Why do you do what you do?
Flagler: Girls Inc. of Long Island (is an) affiliate of the National Girls Inc. organization, with a mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. We provide research-based programs for girls that ensure that they have the
tools, access opportunities and resources to reach their full potential and become the next generation of leaders. (This job) was right in alignment with who I am as a person. It started all those years ago, when I was working with young people and developing an affinity to being able to help young girls who reminded me of myself when I was little … I recognized myself in them, and wanted to help create and open doors for opportunities and stuff like that for them.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Flagler: Sometimes being a black woman is a challenge. A lot of times for women, and especially black women, when we get to the table, we kind of have to prove that we belong there. So that’s definitely been a challenge that has been consistent throughout my entire career, from corporate to now. Service keeps me going and inspires me. Progress keeps me going and inspires me. My faith keeps me going and inspires me. I love what I feel when I see myself progress, or the people that I’m working with or helping progress. I love to see the brightness shine in the eyes of a young person when they realize their own capabilities and they
become more confident in themselves.
Herald: What have been the proudest moments in your life?
Flagler: Professionally, it was being recognized by the network of Girls Inc. for the growth of Girls Inc. When I came into the organization, I was really committed to doing everything I can to be an asset to the organization.
This is just what I love to do, but the fact that whenever I am recognized, it’s an opportunity for me to stop and reflect on what we are able to accomplish at Girls Inc., and those moments make me proud when I’m able to pull my head up out of the grind and go, Oh, my goodness, we did accomplish it.
Herald: What advice do you have to offer? What work is left to be done?
Flagler: So I’m very proud of the fact that today I live what I call my dream journey. I get up every single day and get to do exactly what I love to do, what I feel like I was put here to do and what I’m passionate about doing, and that’s what I want to charge other people to do.
Live a life that is inspired by the pursuit of your passion and your purpose.
There are still boardrooms that are missing women. There are still industries that don’t have enough women in them. We just have to keep fighting,
because we belong there, and we know that our contributions to this world are vital, not just for us, for our communities and for our children, male and female, but those coming behind us.
To learn more about Renee Daniel Flagler’s work, visit her website at ReneeDanielFlagler.com.
Courtesy Joanne Anderson
Joanne Anderson with a Belgian Tervuren at the National Dog Show in Philadelphia in 2020.
Courtesy Renee Daniel Flagler “Service keeps me going and inspires me,” Renee Daniel Flagler says.
Courtesy office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads State Sen. Steve Rhoads has joined the Levittown Chamber of Commerce to support local businesses and promote economic growth.
Sen. Rhoads joins Levittown Chamber
State Sen. Steve Rhoads has joined the Levittown Chamber of Commerce, reinforcing his commitment to supporting small businesses and strengthening the local economy.
With his district office located in the heart of Levittown, Rhoads said he looks forward to collaborating with businesses and enhancing community ties.
“The Levittown Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting
local businesses and fostering economic development,” Rhoads said. “I am honored to join this dynamic organization and look forward to working with fellow members to create opportunities for small businesses, advocate for economic growth, and build a stronger community together. My door is always open!”
–Charles Shaw
Car hits businesses after medical episode
A vehicle crashed into two businesses on Merrick Road in Wantagh early Thursday after the driver suffered a medical episode, police said.
According to Nassau County police, a 37-year-old man was driving a 2021 Buick west near Brookside Avenue at around 5:50 a.m. when he experienced a medical emergency. The vehicle crossed into the eastbound lanes,
struck a telephone pole—knocking it down—and then crashed into CRC Computer Repair and Valhallan ESports Training at 3008 Merrick Road. The driver was transported by Nassau County police ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. No other injuries were reported.
— Charles Shaw
Crime brief
Wantagh crash leads to DWI charge
A Bellmore man was arrested early Saturday after crashing his car into a Wantagh home, causing extensive damage, Nassau County police said.
Officers responded to Gregg Court at around 12:19 a.m. and found a 2019 Hyundai Elantra that had struck a residence, police said. The driver, Daniel Delia, 33, of Cedar Lane, was arrested at the scene.
Delia sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
No one inside the home was injured, but a Town of Hempstead building inspector deemed the house uninhabitable.
Delia is charged with driving while intoxicated and criminal mischief. He was scheduled for arraignment Saturday at First District Court in Hempstead.
— Charles Shaw
Experts address water supply challenges at public forum
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
South Shore residents gathered at Valley Stream Village Hall on March 6 for a Water Quality Town Hall, at which environmental experts discussed concerns about local water safety. Speakers outlined potential risks from contaminants in Long Island’s water and ongoing efforts to protect the supply.
The event, hosted by Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages and Assembly members Michaelle Solages and Judy Griffin, drew a packed audience.
1126,000 customer connections.
Liberty Utilities, which provides water to more than 126,000 customers in Nassau County, has been testing for PFAS on Long Island since 2014, according to Natasha Naola, the company’s water quality manager.
She explained that 10 parts per trillion is equivalent to 10 grains of sand in an Olympic swimming pool, highlighting its toxicity even at low levels.
“PFOA and PFOS are extremely persistent in the environment,” Naola said, “which means they do not break down in the environment at all.”
Liberty conducts quarterly PFAS tests in its raw water wells across the county. Naola said that 22 of the company’s 24 water plants in the county have detected PFAS levels below 2.5 parts
Carrie Solages stressed the need to raise awareness about water contamination and government efforts to address it.
“Water is the most underappreciated utility,” he said. “We have to do more to understand how to preserve and protect our water quality.”
Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, spoke about emerging contaminants and requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency to limit their presence in water. She described polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, as toxic “forever chemicals”
per trillion, well within compliance. To stay ahead of regulations, Liberty is planning treatment upgrades at facilities where PFAS levels exceed 2.5, ensuring that they remain well below the new limit in 2029.
2
3 million pounds.
Operation SPLASH, a volunteer-based organization in Freeport, has been working to clean and protect Long Island’s South Shore bays and waterways since 1990. The group, which monitors 32 miles of coastline from the Nassau-Queens border to Heckscher State Park, has removed over 3 million pounds of debris. Its president, Rob Weltner, highlight-
that are found in everyday products, such as cookware, cosmetics and cleaning supplies, that seep into groundwater, threatening Long Island’s drinking water supply.
In New York, public water systems must meet the state’s maximum contaminant levels of 10 parts per trillion for perfluorooctanoic and perfluorooctane sulfonic acids — also known as PFOA and PFOS, respectively — two common PFAS. Last April, the EPA set new regulations, set to take effect in 2029, reducing the maximum levels to 4 parts per trillion.
ed the organization’s impact, noting that volunteers have collected everything from wood and plastic waste to, yes, a kitchen sink. In addition to cleanups, Operation SPLASH focuses on advocacy and education to protect local waterways from pollution.
3
11-mile pipeline.
The State Department of Environmental Conservation highlighted the Bay Park Conveyance Project, a joint effort with the Nassau County Department of Public Works to improve water quality and storm resiliency in Long Island’s Western Bays. Nitrogen pollution, a major environmental concern, comes from wastewa-
ter, cesspools, septic tanks, and fertilizers. Excess nitrogen fuels harmful algal blooms, fish deaths, and hypoxia — low oxygen conditions that threaten marine life and degrade wetlands.
The Conveyance Project aims to reduce nitrogen pollution by redirecting 50 million gallons of treated wastewater from the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility, in Bay Park, to the Cedar Creek Water Pollution Control Plant’s ocean outfall in Seaford. The wastewater will be discharged farther offshore, preventing nitrogen from accumulating in the bays.
Project Director Andrew Fera said the project is 85 percent complete, with around 11 miles of pipes installed. Testing is set for this summer.
STEPPING OUT
The1938 gelatin silver print “Hardware Store” was originally part of Abbott’s photo series “Changing New York,” which featured over 300 photographs. Gift of Morton Brozinsky.
Captured through a different lens
Untold
narratives of the partnership between photographer Berenice Abbott and art critic Elizabeth McCausland
By Danielle Schwab
We all know that there are generally two sides to every story. For Berenice Abbott and Elizabeth McCausland, a hidden history stretches beyond their fame and official biographies — a tale of enduring love, documenting change and challenging the norms of their time.
Now on view at Heckscher Museum of Art as part of its 2025 Pride Initiative, during Women’s History Month — closing March 30 — the exhibition “Embracing the Parallax: Berenice Abbott and Elizabeth McCausland” sheds a new perspective on the artist-writer duo. Best known for their work capturing the changing landscapes of New York City, the exhibit provides a new understanding of their partnership.
Born in Ohio in 1898, Abbott first ventured to New York City in 1918. Three years later, she moved to Paris to study photography under visual artist Man Ray, eventually returning to New York City to pursue documentary photography.
“She established herself in the Parisian art scene, which is interesting because when she came back to New York, she saw how much the art scene had modernized, she was inspired,” says Jessica Rosen, Heckscher’s assistant curator, who organized the exhibit.
“Her friends thought she was crazy for giving up her prominence in the Parisian art world to go to New York, but she felt her photographic calling,” she continues
She had her first correspondence with McCausland, the Kansas-born art critic and poet in 1934. McCausland wrote a review of one of Abbott’s shows, sparking their intellectual and romantic relationship.
“This review was the first that instilled a political interpretation to Abbott’s works. Abbott responded by saying, ‘This is the first intelligent review of my work that has appeared in this country,” Rosen says.
The pair lived in Greenwich Village, forging a fascinating collaboration.
They became most well-known for a pivotal 1939 book, “Changing New York,” composed of Abott’s photography and McCausland’s captions. While it was meant to capture the modernization of New York through the artist’s perspective, the published version erased much of the original intention.
“Abbott and McCausland wanted to redefine documentary photography’s function by examining transformation through the lens of a rapidly modernizing New York City. Instead, their publisher diluted their message, producing a tourist guidebook for visitors to the 1939 New York World’s Fair.
”The tragedy of the story is that the book that they’re both so well known for is not the book that they wanted. The publishers ended up cutting a lot of
• Now through March 30
• Open Thursday through Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
• Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington
• Visit Heckscher.org or call (631) 380-3230 for information on related programming
Abbott’s photos and completely rewrote all of the captions that were originally very poetic and political,” Rosen explains.
Heckscher’s exhibit attempts to write these wrongs, showcasing 22 of Abbott’s photographs, 10 of McCausland’s captions and a poem that reclaims the original works never published during their lifetime.
“I tried to use this as an opportunity to have McCausland and Abbott’s voices be heard, given that they had been ignored for most of their lives, and specifically with this project,” Rosen says.
One such example is “Hardware Store,” a
1938 photograph of a storefront in Manhattan’s Bowery.
“McCausland basically writes that she’s appreciative of the hardware store. She views it as something imperative to the lifeblood of the city. The last line of the caption is ‘This is life in honest and real terms.’ Whereas what was published makes fun of the store and the things McCausland loved about it,” according to Rosen.
Another highlight is the exhibition’s namesake, “Parallax 1951,” a term that defines how the position of an object appears to shift when observed from different viewpoints. Abbott became interested in this phenomenon, which she demonstrated through two candles — one lit and one unlit — that perfectly aligned with each other’s reflection.
The story of this pair is a powerful tribute to Women’s History Month, demonstrating the resilience and challenges faced by women — especially artists — throughout history.
“This was at a time when photography was not accepted as fine art. So being a photographer, being a woman, being a lesbian — these things all put Abbott at a disadvantage to being taken seriously,” Rosen says.
“McCausland was a left-leaning lesbian that wasn’t afraid to share her opinions or call people out, and I think that’s what made her so amazing, but that’s what made her very unlikeable to her contemporaries. But throughout her work she continued to champion her belief in social justice. She was ahead of her time in every capacity.”
And through it all, it’s a story of lasting love, reuniting McCausland’s words with Abbott’s pictures.
Magical Mystery Doors
The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors. These three iconic groups have changed the face of music as we know it. Their songs have become part of our history. Come take a step through the ‘Magical Mystery Doors’ for a night you won’t soon forget. This dynamic band blends and layers the music of three legendary bands to create something new and unique. These are the songs you know, the songs you love, the songs you sing at the top of your lungs — reimagined. Throughout the concert, Magical Mystery Doors combines some of these classic compositions in ways that surprise and delight audiences time and time again. MMD also enhances the concert experience with a captivating visual presentation. Video screens and an array of lighting allow this act to create an environment where the music comes to life.
Saturday, March 22, 8 p.m. $60, $50, $40. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
Complexions
Contemporary
Ballet versatility is on full display at Tilles Center. Complexions awakens audiences to a new, exciting genre with their singular approach of reinventing dance and contemporary ballet. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, armed with a rich Alvin Ailey lineage and a cadre of 16 stunning dancers, Complexions has been hailed as a “matchless American dance company” by the Philadelphia Inquirer, among its many accolades. Complexions once again blends the world of rock and ballet, this time with the electrifying sounds of U2. The first half of the performance showcases a diverse mixed repertory program from Complexions’ rich history. The second act is entirely dedicated to “For Crying Out Loud,” which features the full company.
Thursday, March 27, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35; available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville.
Photos courtesy Heckscher Museum of Art Elizabeth McCausland owned a printing press that she would use for her poetry and magazines.
Berenice Abbott opted for a bigger camera, not willing to sacrifice a single detail in her photography output. Also an inventor, she obtained four patents for photography equipment.
Your Neighborhood Mercy Hospital offers cardiac screening
THE
‘Good times…’
Neil Diamond is certainly forever — as honored by the musicians who perform as Neil Forever, on the Paramount stage, Friday, March 28, 8 p.m. David Jacobson, the tribute band’s founder, has a great passion for the music and legacy of the legendary performer. David, along with his son and music director Dylan Jacobson and drummer John Cardoso began their journey in January 2023. Today, the 14-person ensemble includes bass player Ted Wyman, keyboard player Anthony Raffa, Glenn Gabberty on electric guitar, and percussionist/bongo player Eric Ziegelmeier. The horn section is led by Chris Scarnato who directs a section which includes bari sax. tenor sax, trumpet, and trombone. Jeanna Campo performs key duets and leads the vocal harmony section of three. Together they deliver an authentic, exciting and joyful live concert that captivates the legendary superstar’s fans. Performing Diamond’s music is as much about heart and soul as it is talent; it’s a celebration of the music and the man who created it. The band has forged an exciting path, as discovered by excited and passionate fans, both old and young. Audiences are thrilled by the authentic renditions of classic hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Coming to America,” and Kentucky Women.” Their goal is to transport the audience back in time and relive that incredible feeling of seeing Neil Diamond live. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Regional Meeting
Divide NYS Caucus Inc. will propose a new New York State constitutional amendment during their regional meeting, Thursday, March 27, 6:30 p.m., at Venus Family Restaurant. The meeting will focus on the proposed constitutional amendment to establish three autonomous regions within the state: New Amsterdam, New York and Montauk, each with its own governor and legislature.
Attendees will learn about bills S3484 and A03778, which outline the plan for these regional governments. The public is encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion. 546 Hempstead Ave., West Hempstead. For more information, visit divideny.org.
Rabbi Margie Cella speaks at Congregation
Beth Tikvah
Congregation Beth Tikvah hosts a free presentation by Rabbi Margie Cella, Sunday, March 30, noon, in the social hall. Rabbi Cella discusses her book, “Hindsight is 2020: Torah Lessons for a Turbulent Time. Rabbi Cella, who converted to Judaism in 1982, is a speaker dedicated to Torah study and observance. With brunch.Those interested must RSVP by March 21 by calling the congregation office at (516) 785-2445. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh
You only have one heart. Protect it with a free cardiac screening at Mercy Hospital, Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Getting your coronary calcium score scan can save your life. A coronary calcium score is like a “mammogram” for the heart to screen for blockage(s). This simple, non-invasive test can indicate coronary artery disease before the onset of symptoms or heart attacks. The scan does not require IV or Oral CT contrast. Limited appointments available in 15 minute increments. Last appointment will be at 1:45 p.m. No insurance necessary. 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. Radiology & Imaging (adjacent to Emergency Department). To register, call (516) 62-MERCY (63729).
Bingo at Temple B’nai Torah
Temple B’nai Torah hosts a fun-filled bingo session, every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and every Thursday, 7:15 -10 p.m. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments available. 2900 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 2212370.
Seaford United Methodist Church Lenten service
Seaford United Methodist Church hosts a Lenten service, Wednesday, April 9 , 7 p.m. This is part of a series of services held at United Methodist churches in the area leading up to Easter. The community is invited to attend. 2160 Washington Ave.
Celebrate Holi
Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to participate in Holi, the Festival of Colors, Sunday, April 6 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Originating in India, this Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of the colorful spring season. During this joyous celebration, families eat sweets, dance to traditional folk music and throw colorful powder made from flowers called gulal.
Crafts, color throwing and dancing are part of this vibrant event. Welcome spring’s arrival with Holi. Participants are encouraged to wear clothes that they won’t mind getting messy.
Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row,
Sir Duke in concert
The Stevie Wonder tribute band performs at My Father’s Place, Thursday, March 27, 8 p.m. Fronted by vocalist Tom Bowes (of Tower of Power and Blood, Sweat & Tears) Sir Duke lifts the level of the tribute band genre to something riveting and unforgettable. With nine musicians, including a tight rhythm section that has played together over 15 years, the explosive combination of vocals and rhythm honors the musicality and songwriting genius of the inspirational Steve Wonder. My Father’s Place at The Roslyn, 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. For tickets/information, visit myfathersplace.com or call (516) 580-0887.
Game time
Enjoy Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday, noon-4 p.m., at Congregation Beth Tikvah. $5 contribution, no outside food, as snacks and drinks will be supplied. Bring your games and cards, lessons available. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh. For more info, email mahjonggCBT@yahoo.com or call (516) 785-2445.
Having an event?
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, for the final performances of its current production, Friday, March 21, 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 and shows him 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.
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
April 13
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, April 13, 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.
TUESDAY APRIL 8
6:00-9:00PM
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale
For more information or be a sponsor, contact Amy Amato, Executive Director, Corporate Relations Events at aamato@richnerlive.com or 516.569.4000 x224
COMPLEX DISPUTES
MICHAEL AMATO
Partner
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.
CONSTRUCTION & REAL ESTATE LITIGATION
NEIL DISKIN
Counsel Nixon Peabody LLP
CORPORATE
JOSEPH G. MILIZIO ESQ.
Managing Partner
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP
ASHLEY MISTRETTA
Counsel Nixon Peabody LLP
CHARLES SKOP
Shareholder
Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
DANIEL W. RUSSO, ESQ.
Founder and President Law Office of Daniel W. Russo, LLC Nassau County Bar Association
DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW
JAQUELINE HAROUNIAN, ESQ.
Managing Partner Wisselman Harounian Family Law
DEBORAH A. KELLY ESQ.
Attorney Mejias, Milgrim, Alvarado & Lindo
JASON A. ISAACSON
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Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -againstJOSEPH SULFARRO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JEANETTE SULFARRO, 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 January 30, 2025, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and JOSEPH SULFARRO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JEANETTE SULFARRO, 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 April 7, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1183 OAKFIELD AVENUE, WANTAGH, NY 11793; and the following tax map identification: 51-513-11.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WANTAGH, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601101/2023. Lisa Segal Poczik, 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. 151835
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPPLEMENTAL
SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County. JOVIA FINANCIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION F/K/A NASSAU EDUCATORS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, -
against- UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA M. DILLON; SANDRA GABIN, POSSIBLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA M. DILLON; WILLIAM DEMARTINI, POSSIBLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA M. DILLON; WALTER DEMARTINI, POSSIBLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA M. DILLON; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants Index No. 602293/2024
Mortgaged Premises: 248 Twin Lane East Wantagh, NY 11793 Section: 51 Block: 406 Lot: 35 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $130,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on February 20, 2015, in Book M 40223, Page 946, Control Number 4091, covering the premises known as 248 Twin Lane East, Wantagh, NY 11793.. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the
mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 151984
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Deborah Slade; Donald Slade, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 10, 2015 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 7, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 960 Barrie Avenue, Wantagh, NY 11793-1702. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 51 Block 280 Lot 0036. Approximate amount of judgment $458,503.17 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of
filed Judgment Index# 002092/2014. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Richard M. Langone, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: February 13, 2025
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 151978
LEGAL NOTICE
Alan A. Ahdoot, Esq. (State Bar No. 238594)
Christopher B. Adamson, Esq. (State Bar No. 238500) ADAMSON AHDOOT LLP 1150 S. Robertson Blvd. Los Angeles, California 90035
T: 310.888.0024
F: 888.895.4665
E: alan@aa-llp.com
E: christopher@aallp.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
WILBER TOMAS
BENITEZ ALEMAN SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES –CENTRAL DISTRICT
UNLIMITED JURISDICTION
WILBER TOMAS BENITEZ ALEMAN, an individual, Plaintiff, vs. MICHAEL G .PRETE; HERTZ VEHICLES LLC; and DOES 1-100, inclusive, Defendants. Case No.:22STCV01737 PLAINTIFF’S COMPLAINT FOR DAMAGES
1. NEGLIGENCE DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
Electronically FILED by Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles on 01/14/2022 03:56 PM
Sherri R. Carter, Executive Officer/Clerk of Court, by N. Alvarez,Deputy Clerk Assigned for all purposes to: Spring Street Courthouse, Judicial Officer: Michael Whitaker COMES NOW Plaintiff
WILBER TOMAS
BENITEZ ALEMAN, an individual (hereinafter “PLAINTIFF”) for Causes of Action against Defendants MICHAEL G. PRETE (hereinafter
“DEFENDANT PRETE”); HERTZ VEHICLES LLC (hereinafter “DEFENDANT HERTZ”); and DOES 1-100, inclusive (collectively hereinafter “DEFENDANTS”), and each of them, complains and alleges as follows: GENERAL ALLEGATIONS
1. The claims set forth herein arise from a motor vehicle collision that occurred on January 16, 2020, in the City of Van Nuys, County of Los Angeles, California (hereinafter “SUBJECT INCIDENT”), which caused severe personal injuries to PLAINTIFF.
2. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that DEFENDANT PRETE was, and is, a resident of the City of Wantagh, New York.
3. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges, DEFENDANT HERTZ was, and is, doing business in the State of California
4. The true names and capacities, whether individual, plural, corporate, partnership, associate, or otherwise, of DOES 1-100, inclusive, are unknown to PLAINTIFF who therefore sues said DEFENDANTS by such fictitious names. The full extent of the facts linking such fictitiously sued DEFENDANTS is unknown to PLAINTIFF. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that each of the DEFENDANTS designated herein as a DOE was, and is, negligent, and/or in some other actionable manner, responsible for the events and happenings hereinafter referred to, and thereby negligently, and/or in some other actionable manner, legally and proximately caused the hereinafter described injuries and damages to PLAINTIFF. PLAINTIFF will hereafter seek leave of the Court to amend this Complaint to show the DEFENDANTS’ true names and capacities after the same have been ascertained.
5. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that at all times relevant and mentioned herein, DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, were the
agents, servants, employees and/or successors in interest, and/or joint venturers of their co-Defendants, and each of them, was acting within the course, scope and authority of said agency, employment and/or venture, and that each and every Defendant, as aforesaid, when acting as a principal, was negligent in the selection and hiring, retention, training and supervision of each and every other Defendant as an agent, employee and/or joint venturer.
6. PLAINTIFF’S injuries occurred at said PREMISES in the City of Van Nuys, which falls within the Los Angeles County Judicial District, and this Court is therefore the proper Court in which to bring this action, pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure sections 395 and 396.
7. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that the SUBJECT INCIDENT occurred on January 16, 2020, when PLAINTIFF was the restrained operator of a 2014 Kia Optima (hereinafter “PLAINTIFF’S VEHICLE”). PLAINTIFF was traveling southbound on Interstate 405, south of Roscoe Boulevard in Van Nuys, California, (hereinafter “SUBJECT LOCATION”). At the same time, DEFENDANT PRETE was the operator of a 2018 Kia Optima (hereinafter “SUBJECT VEHICLE”). At said location date and time, as PLAINTIFF was traveling as previously stated, DEFENDANT PRETE was operating the SUBJECT VEHICLE without due care, causing the SUBJECT VEHICLE to collide with PLAINTIFF’S VEHICLE.
8. As a result of the SUBJECT INCIDENT, PLAINTIFF suffered severe, traumatic, debilitating, and permanent injuries that necessitated significant medical care. FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION NEGLIGENCE
(By PLAINTIFF against DEFENDANTS and DOES 1-100)
9. PLAINTIFF re-alleges and incorporates herein by reference each and every allegation
and statement contained in the prior paragraphs.
10. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that, at all times relevant and mentioned herein, DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, owed a duty of care to all reasonably foreseeable people, including PLAINTIFF, to own, lease, manage, maintain, entrust, operate, drive, and/or control the SUBJECT VEHICLE in a reasonable manner.
11. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that, at all times relevant and mentioned herein, DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, carelessly and negligently owned, leased, managed, maintained, and/or entrusted the SUBJECT VEHICLE to DEFENDANT PRETE, who carelessly and negligently operated, drove, and/or controlled the SUBJECT VEHICLE, so as to legally, directly, and proximately cause the SUBJECT INCIDENT.
12. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, breached their duty to own, lease, manage, maintain, entrust, control, and/or operate the SUBJECT VEHICLE in a reasonable manner, thereby causing bodily injury to PLAINTIFF.
13. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges, that DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, were agents, servants, employees, successors in interest, and/or joint venturers of their codefendants, and were, as such, acting within the course, scope, and authority of said agency, employment and/or venture, and that each and every defendant, as aforesaid, when acting as a principal, was negligent in the selection of each and every other defendant as an agent, servant, employee, successor in interest, and/or joint venturer.
14. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges, that at all times mentioned herein, DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100,
and each of them, carelessly and negligently, owned, leased, managed, maintained, controlled, entrusted and/or operated the SUBJECT VEHICLE so as to legally and proximately cause the same to collide with PLAINTIFF’S VEHICLE and to cause PLAINTIFF’S VEHICLE to have extensive damage, thereby causing bodily injuries to PLAINTIFF.
15. More specifically, PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that, at all times relevant and mentioned herein, DEFENDANT PRETE carelessly and negligently operated, drove, and/or controlled the SUBJECT VEHICLE, thereby colliding with PLAINTIFF.
16. PLAINTIFF is informed, believes, and thereon alleges that, at all times relevant and mentioned herein, said careless and negligent conduct of DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, in regard to the ownership, leasing, management, maintenance, entrustment, operation, driving, and/or control of the SUBJECT VEHICLE was the direct, legal and proximate cause of the injuries and damages to PLAINTIFF as herein alleged.
17. As a legal, direct, and proximate result of the aforementioned conduct of the DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, PLAINTIFF was injured and hurt in his health, strength and/or activity, sustaining serious injuries to his body, and/or shock and injury to his nervous system and person, all of which said injuries have caused and continue to cause PLAINTIFF great physical and/or mental pain and suffering. PLAINTIFF is further informed, believes, and thereon alleges that said injuries will result in some permanent disability to his person, all to his general damages in an amount which will be stated according to proof, pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 425.10. 18. As a legal, direct, and proximate result of the aforementioned
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conduct of DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, PLAINTIFF sustained damage to his property in an amount which will be stated according to proof, pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 425.10.
19. As a legal, direct and proximate result of the aforementioned conduct of DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, PLAINTIFF was prevented from attending his usual occupation and/or PLAINTIFF is informed and believes, and thereon alleges, that he will be prevented from ever attending to his occupation in the future, and thereby will also sustain a loss of earning capacity and loss of opportunity, in addition to lost earnings, past, present, and future according to proof, pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure section 425.10.
20. As a legal, direct, and proximate result of the conduct of the DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, and each of them, PLAINTIFF was compelled to and did employ the services of hospitals, physicians, surgeons, nurses and the like, to care for and treat him, and did incur hospital, medical, professional and incidental expenses, and PLAINTIFF is informed and believes, and thereon alleges, that by reason of his injuries, he will necessarily incur additional like expenses for an indefinite period of time in the future, the exact amount of which expenses will be stated according to proof, pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure section 425.10.
PRAYER FOR DAMAGES WHEREFORE, PLAINTIFF hereby prays for judgment against DEFENDANTS and/or DOES 1-100, inclusive, and each of them, as follows:
1. For general damages (also known as noneconomic damages), including but not limited to, past and future physical, mental, and emotional pain and suffering in an amount in excess of the jurisdictional
minimum, according to proof;
2. For special damages (also known as economic damages), including but not limited to, past and future hospital, medical, professional, and incidental expenses as well as past and future loss of earnings, loss of opportunity, and loss of earning capacity, in excess of the jurisdictional minimum, according to proof;
3. For prejudgment interest, according to proof;
4. For cost of suit incurred herein, including attorney’s fees, according to proof;
5. For damages for Plaintiff’s other losses, according to proof;
6. For such other and further relief as the Court may deem just and proper.
Dated: January 14, 2022 Respectfully submitted, ADAMSON AHDOOT LLP
By: Christopher B. Adamson, Esq.
Attorneys for Plaintiff WILBER TOMAS
BENITEZ ALEMAN DEMAND FOR TRIAL BY JURY
PLAINTIFF hereby demands a trial by jury as to all causes of action.
Dated: January 14, 2022 Respectfully submitted, ADAMSON AHDOOT LLP
By: Christopher B. Adamson, Esq.
Attorneys for Plaintiff WILBER TOMAS BENITEZ ALEMAN
SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)
NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO)l MICHAEL G .PRETE; HERTZ VEHICLES LLC; mtd DOES 1-100, inclusive SUM-1 00 FOR COURr USE ONLY (so LU PARA Uso UE LA coRFEJ YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LD ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMAIVDANTE)l WILBER TOMAS
BFNITEZ AI.EMAN, an individual
NOTICEI You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.
You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a wntten response at this court and have a copy served on the plamtiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at ihe California Courts Online Self-Help Center twww.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearesl you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning fram Ihe court There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If yau do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www lawheipcalilarnia org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center twww.courtinfo ca gov/sslfhslp), or by contacting your local court ar county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $ 1 0,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case, IAVISOI Lo han demandado. Si no responds denlro de 30 dias, ia carte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versiiln. Lee la informacl6n a coniinuacidn.
Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de qus le snireguen esis citaci6n y papeiss /ega/as para preseniar Una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se enfregue una copis ai demandante. Ijna carta o Una llamsda
teief6nica no lo protegen Su respuesta por escrilo tiene que esisr en formata legal correclo si desea que processn su caso en la carte. Es posibie que hays un formuiario qus usled pueda Ussr para su respuesta. Pusde encantrar astas farmularios de la corte y masinformacidn en el Ceniro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (wwwsucortecagov), en la bibiiotsca de levee ds su condado a sn la cart que ls quads mas ceres. Si no puede pager la cuota de presenfacion, pida al secrelario de la corte que le de un formularia de exenci6n de pago de cuotss Si no preserita su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el casa por incumplimi ento y ia carte le padra qui far su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas sdvertencis. Hay atras requisitos iegsies. Es recomendable qus flame a un abagado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abagada, puede ilamar a un servicio da remision a abagados. Si no puede pager a un abagsdo, es posi hie que cumpla can los requisitos para oblener servicios legaies grafuilos de un programs de servicios legaies sin fines de lucro puede snconfrarssios grupos sin fines de lucra en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcaiiforni a.arg), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte,ca.gov) o poniendose en cantscto con ia cart o el colegio de abogados lacalss. AVISOJ Parley, la corte tiene derecho a reclsmar ias cuotas y los costas exenlos por imponer Un gravamen soars cusiquier rscupsracl6n de $10000 6 mas de va/or reci bide medisnte un acuerdo 0 una concesi6n de srbitraje en Un caso de dsrecho civil. Tiens que pager el gravamen de la corte antes de que la carte pueda desechar ei caso. The name and address of the court is: (EI hombre y direccfon de Ia corte es). Los Angeles County Superior Court 111 N. Hill Sheet Los Angeles, CA 90012 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an
attorney, is (El nombre, Ia direccion y ef numero de tefefono del abogada dei demandanfe, o del demandanfe que no liana abogado, es). Christopher B. Adamson, Esq., 1150 S. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035. 310.888.0024
DATE’lerk,by (Fecha) (Secretari o) (For proof of service of this summons, use Proof of Service of Summons (form POS-010).) (Para prueba de enfrega de cata citation use ef formuiario Proof of Service of Summons, (POS-010)).
NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served
1. ~ as an individual defendant.
2. ~ as the person sued under the fictitious name of (specify) , Deputy (Ad)unto)
3 ~ on behalf of (specify); under. ~ CCP 416.10 (corporation) CCP 416.60 (minor) CCP 416.20 (defunct corporation) ~ CCP 416.70 (conservatee) CCP 416.40 (association or partnership) ~ CCP 416.90 (authorized person) other (specify): 4. ~ by personal delivery on (date); Paae 1 of 1 F rmndopl dforMendaioryuae Judiual Council of California SUM-100 IReu July 1, 2000l
SUMMONS code of ciwi Procedure 55 112 20, 155 ynwy coudlf fo ce doc Electronically FILED by Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles on 01/14/2022 03:56 PM Sherri R. Carter, Executive Officer/Clerk of Court, by N. Alvarez,Deputy Clerk 22STCV01737 152054
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE REUNIÓN ESPECIAL Y ELECCIÓN PARA EL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE UNIONADO DE WANTAGH
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA Y VOTACIÓN DE PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DE SÍNDICOS BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE WANTAGH
CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK Aviso legal
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se
llevará a cabo una audiencia pública de los votantes calificados de la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh del Distrito Escolar de Wantagh, Condado de Nassau, Wantagh, Nueva York, en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh en dicho Distrito el 21 de abril de 2025, a las 6:30 p. m., hora vigente, para la presentación del documento de presupuesto. Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que dicha votación y elección se llevarán a cabo el 29 de abril de 2025 entre las 1:00 p. m. y las 1:00 p. m. y las 8:00 p. m., hora vigente, en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh, momento en el que se abrirán las urnas para votar mediante papeletas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos: 1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh para el año fiscal 2025/2026 y autorizar que la parte necesaria del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito. 2. Elegir a 1 miembro de la Junta Directiva: o un (1) miembro de la Junta Directiva por un período de (5) cinco años que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2025 y terminará el 30 de junio de 2030. Y ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que cualquier residente del Distrito podrá obtener una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para financiar el presupuesto operativo de la Biblioteca de Wantagh para 2025/2026, sin incluir dinero público, a pedido durante el horario de atención escolar a partir del 7 de abril de 2025, excepto sábados, domingos o feriados, en la Oficina de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY, y en cada una de las siguientes oficinas escolares: Escuelas primarias de Wantagh, Mandalay y Forest Lake, Escuela secundaria de Wantagh y Escuela secundaria de Wantagh y en la Biblioteca pública de Wantagh, 3285 Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY y en el sitio web de la biblioteca. sitio web www.wantaghlibrary.o rg. Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA
PRESENTE que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Síndicos deberán presentarse ante el Secretario de dicho Distrito Escolar en el Edificio Administrativo, a más tardar el 31 de marzo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m. Las vacantes en la Junta de Síndicos no se consideran cargos separados y específicos, los candidatos se postulan en general. Las peticiones de nominación no deberán describir ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual se nomina al candidato, deberán dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito, deberán estar firmadas por al menos (25) votantes calificados del Distrito, deberán indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y deberán indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que las solicitudes de papeletas de voto en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario de atención escolar en la Oficina Administrativa del Secretario del Distrito, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY, y en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh, 3285 Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY, y en el sitio web de la Biblioteca www.wantaghlibrary.o rg. Las solicitudes de papeletas de voto en ausencia pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes del día 30 anterior a la elección para la que se solicitan. Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día anterior a la elección, si la papeleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante. Las papeletas de voto en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m., hora vigente, el 29 de abril de 2025. Una lista de personas a quienes se les expiden papeletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para inspección para los votantes calificados del
Distrito a partir de la emisión de la primera papeleta de voto en ausencia en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en la Oficina de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY, el 24 de abril de 2025 y después, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m. los días hábiles anteriores al día establecido para la elección anual, y el sábado 26 de abril de 2025 entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 12 del mediodía, hora vigente, y el 29 de abril de 2025, el día establecido para la elección. Cualquier votante calificado presente en el lugar de votación puede objetar la votación de la boleta por motivos apropiados para hacer conocer su impugnación y las razones para ello al Inspector de Elecciones antes del cierre de las urnas. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden solicitar una boleta militar. Se puede solicitar una solicitud de boleta militar al Secretario del Distrito y debe devolverse, en persona o por correo, a la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, en 3301 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh, NY, a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del vigésimo sexto (26.º) día antes de la elección. Un votante militar puede indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud de boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico.
Y SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS POR LA PRESENTE que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes de conformidad con el §2014 de la Ley de Educación o de conformidad con el Artículo §5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora de conformidad con el §2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial del distrito antes de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, es elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar de conformidad con el Artículo §5 de la Ley Electoral, también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse.
La Junta de Registro se
Public Notices
reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con el §2014 de la Ley de Educación en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh el 22 de abril de 2025 entre las 4:00 p. m. y las 8:00 p. m. para agregar nombres adicionales al Registro que se utilizará en la elección antes mencionada, en cuyo momento cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se pruebe a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que él o ella tiene derecho en ese momento o en el futuro a votar en dicha elección para la cual se prepara el registro. Cualquier persona que desee registrarse también puede hacerlo en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m. durante los días escolares, de lunes a viernes. Sin embargo, dicho registro no se realizará menos de cinco días antes del 29 de abril de 2025. El registro preparado de conformidad con el §2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY y estará abierto para inspección en dicha oficina por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del 24 de abril de 2025 y todos los días posteriores antes del día establecido para la elección, excepto el domingo, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., hora vigente, y el sábado 26 de abril de 2025 entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 12:00 del mediodía, hora vigente, y en el lugar de votación el día de la votación.
Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que, de conformidad con el §2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el 29 de abril de 2025 entre las 13:00 y las 20:00 horas, hora vigente, en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en las elecciones del Distrito Escolar que se celebrarán en 2025 y en cualquier reunión especial de distrito posterior que pueda
celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de dicha Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o posteriormente en las elecciones de la Biblioteca para las que se prepare dicho Registro o en cualquier reunión especial de distrito celebrada después del 29 de abril de 2025.
Y, ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que la votación sobre todas las propuestas y la elección de candidatos en las elecciones celebradas el 29 de abril de 2025 se realizarán mediante papeletas de votación. Se entiende expresamente que la intención de la Biblioteca es cumplir con cualquier legislación derivada de la actual pandemia de coronavirus. Por lo tanto, todas las referencias a los horarios, la ubicación y la forma de las audiencias, el registro y la votación en la votación y elección del presupuesto están sujetas a modificaciones según la legislación aplicable o la dirección de una entidad con jurisdicción sobre la Biblioteca.
Elaine F. McGuigan, secretaria del distrito Fecha: 24 de febrero de 2025
Wantagh Union Free School District Ciudad de Hempstead Condado de Nassau, Nueva York 152117
LEGAL NOTICE
SPECIAL MEETING AND ELECTION NOTICE FOR THE WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND BUDGET VOTE AND TRUSTEE ELECTION
WANTAGH PUBLIC LIBRARY
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
Legal Notice
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the Wantagh Public Library of the Wantagh School District, Nassau County, Wantagh, New York, will be held at the Wantagh Public Library in said District on April 21, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. prevailing time, for the
presentation of the budget document.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on April 29, 2025 between the hours of 1:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M., prevailing time, in the Wantagh Public Library, at which time the polls will be open to vote by paper ballot upon the following items:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the Wantagh Public Library for the fiscal year 2025/2026 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
2. To elect 1 member of the Board of Trustees:
“ one (1) member of the Board of Trustees for a (5) five-year term commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring on June 30, 2030. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the Wantagh Library’s operating budget for 2025/2026 exclusive of public monies, may be obtained upon request by any resident of the District during school business hours beginning April 7, 2025 except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at the Administration Office, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY, and at each of the following schoolhouse offices: Wantagh, Mandalay and Forest Lake Elementary Schools, Wantagh Middle School and Wantagh High School and at the Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY and on the library website www.wantaghlibrary.o rg. AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Trustees shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at the Administration Building, no later than March 31, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Vacancies on the Board of Trustees are not considered separate, specific offices, candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the
candidate is nominated, must be directed to the Clerk of the District, must be signed by at least (25) qualified voters of the District, must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk at the Administration Office, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY and at the Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY and on the Library website www.wantaghlibrary.o rg. Applications for the absentee ballots may be received by the District Clerk no earlier than the 30th day before the election for which it is sought. Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 P.M., prevailing time, on April 29, 2025.
A list of persons to whom absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District commencing with the issuance of the first absentee ballot in the office of the District Clerk at the Administration Office, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY on and after April 24, 2025 between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election, and on Saturday, April 26, 2025 between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 12 Noon prevailing time and on April 29, 2025 the day set for the election. Any qualified voter present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds for making his/her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may apply for a military ballot. A
military ballot application may be requested from the District Clerk and must be returned, in person or by mail, to the Office of the District Clerk, at 3301 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh, NY, not later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth (26th) day before the election. A military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the military ballot application by mail, facsimile transmission, or e-mail.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law or pursuant to Article §5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting prior to the last four (4) calendar years, he/she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article §5 of the Election Law, he/she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. The Board of Registration will meet for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law at the Wantagh Public Library on April 22, 2025 between the hours of 4:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the register is prepared. Any person desiring to register may also register at the Office of the District Clerk between the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. during school days, Monday through Friday. Such registration, however,
shall not take place less than five days preceding April 29, 2025. The register so prepared pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District at 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY and will be open for inspection in said office by any qualified voter of the District beginning on April 24, 2025 and each day thereafter prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. prevailing time, and on Saturday, April 26, 2025 between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 12:00 Noon prevailing time and at the polling place on the day of the vote.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law of the State of New York, the Board of Registration will meet on April 29, 2025 between the hours of 1:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M., prevailing time, at the Wantagh Public Library to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the School District election to be held in 2025, and any subsequent special district meetings that may be held after the preparation of said Register, placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he/she is known or proved to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the Library election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after April 29, 2025.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the vote on all propositions and the election of candidates on the election held on April 29, 2025 will be conducted by paper ballot. It being expressly understood that the intent of the Library is to comply with any legislation stemming from the current coronavirus pandemic. Thus, all references to the timing, location, and
manner of hearings, registration, and voting in the budget vote and election are subject to modification based on applicable legislation or direction by an entity with jurisdiction over the Library.
Elaine F. McGuigan, District Clerk
Dated:February 24, 2025
Wantagh Union Free School District Town of Hempstead County of Nassau, New York 152115
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, Town Hall Plaza, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 25th day of March 2025, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the enactment of a local law to repeal and reenact Subdivision C of Section 70-5 of Chapter 70 entitled, “Department of Water, Rates and Regulations” of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, in relation to payment of water bills. The proposed local law is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk of the Town of Hempstead, Hempstead Town Hall, Town Hall Plaza, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead New York, where the same may be inspected during office hours. ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated: Hempstead, New York March 11, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD Donald X. Clavin, Jr. Supervisor Kate Murray Town Clerk 152249
LEGAL NOTICE AMENDED NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff, vs. HARRY LAGONIKOS A/K/A HARILAOS I. LAGONIKOS A/K/A HARRY J. LAGONIKOS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 22, 2023 and an Order Amending Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Extending Time to Conduct the Foreclosure Sale duly entered on January 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 1, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 2957 Curtis Place, Wantagh, NY 11793 a/k/a 2957 Curtis Place, Bellmore, NY 11793. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 56, Block 411 and Lot 442. Approximate amount of judgment is $461,899.42 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609058/2018. The previous Notice of Sale erroneously listed Lot 441
Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 231006-1 152212
Employment
FULL AND PART TIME POSITIONS
• TEACHING ASSISTANTS
• TEACHER AIDES
• LUNCH MONITORS
• FOOD MESSENGER
SUBSTITUTE POSITIONS
• CLERICAL
• CUSTODIAL
• LUNCH MONITORS
• TEACHER AIDES
• TEACHING ASSISTANTS
• TEACHER SUBS (Permanent/Daily) Interested candidates email resume to our Personnel Office at Employment@lynbrookschools.org. Please include position in email subject.
EDITOR/REPORTER
Help Wanted
DRIVERS WANTED Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must.
Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
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Bell Auto School
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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
Hebrew Academy of Long Beach seeks educators to join our exceptional school faculty in fostering a culture of academic exploration and excellence and dedication to spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth of all students. We are currently looking for candidates in the following divisions:
Lev Chana Early Childhood:
• Early Childhood Assistant Teachers
• Early Childhood Head Teachers
HALB Elementary School:
• Middle School Language Arts Teacher
• Elementary School Assistant Teachers
DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys:
• Business and Entrepreneurship Teacher
• Science Teacher
• STEM Teacher
• Math Teacher
• Resource Room Teacher
To learn more about our school community, please visit www.halb.org. We look forward to hearing from you! Please send resumes or inquiries to resumes@halb.org.
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
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS
FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20
Dr. Maureen T. Berman
Amazing Hi-Ranch
Welcome to this move-in ready hi-ranch home built in 2002, located on an extended lot. This
When should piles of equipment be delivered before a house-lifting?
Q. We have to make a decision about buying materials, based on what we think tariffs are going to do to the cost of materials for our house. We’re ready to pay for our permit so we can start, but we’re still waiting for our final estimate from two contractors so we can choose one, turn in their insurance information and begin. We wanted your opinion on what to do, since we are lifting our house and both contractors will be using the same house-lifting company. The house lifters suggested we make a $20,000 payment, and then they will drop off the piles in our yard ahead of choosing the contractor, to save what could be thousands of dollars once tariffs take effect. We have two small children and our house is small — too small for our family as the kids grow. Every dollar is important, and we’re wondering what you advise about the arrangement, since we held off on the permit that was approved two years ago, and hope we get a price that’s good enough to move forward.
Apartment
A. Having the piles delivered to your yard, before you get prices for the construction and choose a contractor, isn’t a good idea. You mentioned that you have small children, and I imagine that not only your children, but other curious little ones may get to the piles, which are large galvanized or stainless steel sections with blade edges like giant screws.
Depending on whether you can now afford to choose a contractor and finally move forward, those piles, once dumped in your yard, are yours. You need to have a specifically worded agreement that the money you give the pile company is a down payment or deposit, and that the piles won’t be delivered until you arrange for that delivery. You must get the numbers from each contractor, choose one and get their insurance documents, specifically filled out with one set for you, the property owner, and another set for your municipality (which requires this) so you can obtain the permit.
Your yard is not to be treated as if it were a storage facility. Many municipalities require protective fencing during a construction project to protect the public. Your municipally doesn’t currently require fencing, but consider what you’re going to do next if you take the piles and can’t afford to move forward with the job. Also, you would need to ask the contractor you choose where those piles, and all the other materials, will be stored during construction.
The most efficient construction jobs have “justin-time” deliveries to avoid congestion and unsafe conditions on the site. “Just-in-time” was coined by Toyota for the way they efficiently build cars, but it translates to any kind of production, much the way the Disney Company calls each customer a guest. Hopefully you get pricing and choose a contractor, order the piles and save the money. The current state of trade has many on edge. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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We can’t let seniors be the victims of budget cuts
As we recognize National Nutrition Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of healthy eating and food security, we find ourselves facing a looming crisis that threatens the very foundation of support for some of our most vulnerable neighbors. The proposed federal budget cuts could have devastating consequences for Long Island families, particularly for our seniors who rely on essential programs like Meals on Wheels.
In 2024, EAC Network delivered 150,000 meals to thousands of hungry, vulnerable senior citizens in Nassau County alone. These meals, provided through our Meals on Wheels program and our four Senior Community Centers in Merrick, Point Lookout, Hempstead Village and Roslyn, allow seniors to maintain their independence, receive valuable nutrition, and stay connected to their communities. For many, this program is more than just food — it’s a lifeline that combats malnutrition, social isolation and health decline.
The proposed budget cuts would
severely limit our ability to continue these services at the current scale. This isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s about real people — our parents, grandparents and neighbors — who have worked their entire lives to build our communities and now find themselves in need of support. Slashing funding for senior nutrition programs means fewer meals, fewer wellness checks and, ultimately, greater strain on our already overburdened health care and social service systems.
pFor seniors like Marie, a widow who regularly visits our Hempstead Senior Center, our programs aren’t just about receiving food — they’re about dignity and survival. “I’m a widow and I live alone now,” Marie says. “Being in the house all day is not one of my things. I come every day because I like to socialize.” Stories like hers aren’t unique; they are similar for thousands of seniors who rely on our programs to remain independent.
ties, will face increased financial and emotional burdens. The loss of funding could also impact jobs in the caregiving and nonprofit sectors, further destabilizing local economies.
rograms that help them aren’t just about food, but about dignity and survival.
A Senate and House bill passed this month calls for harmful cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services, including significant top-line cuts that could impact critical social service programs for our seniors, such as Medicaid, SNAP and the Meals on Wheels program. Any reductions would profoundly affect Meals on Wheels providers like us who rely on federal funding to deliver essential services to vulnerable seniors in our community. Today, nearly 13 million older Americans face the threat of hunger, and 56 percent of seniors report feeling lonely. Cuts to these vital programs are unconscionable, and must be prevented.
social isolation.
Long Island has always been a community that takes care of its own, and now is the time to stand together and demand that our leaders protect the programs that keep our most vulnerable residents safe and healthy. Investing in senior nutrition isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s the fiscally responsible choice. Every dollar spent on Meals on Wheels and our senior centers helps prevent costly hospitalizations and long-term care placements, saving taxpayers money in the long run.
Failing to invest in senior nutrition today will only lead to higher health care costs tomorrow. Research shows that proper nutrition reduces hospitalizations and the need for long-term care, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in avoidable medical expenses. It’s clear: Preventing hunger is a cost-effective strategy that benefits everyone.
The ripple effect of these cuts extends beyond our seniors. Families who depend on supportive services will feel the strain as they’re forced to step in to fill the gaps. Working caregivers, already juggling jobs and responsibili-
Beyond the impact on seniors and their families, these cuts would also place immense pressure on local volunteers and nonprofit workers who dedicate their time to keeping these programs running. With fewer resources, we may be forced to turn away seniors in need or reduce meal deliveries, leaving many at risk of malnutrition and
WAs Congress debates these budget proposals, I urge our elected officials to prioritize the health and well-being of our seniors. Let’s ensure that National Nutrition Month isn’t just a time for awareness, but a catalyst for action. And I urge you, our Long Island community, to take action. Call your representatives, write letters and speak out — because protecting our seniors should never be up for debate.
Neela Mukherjee Lockel is president and CEO of EAC Network.
PSEG Long Island celebrates its engineers
hen you think about an electric company, you probably think about the lineworkers who take on physically challenging work on high-voltage equipment while standing in bucket trucks high above the ground. While PSEG Long Island does have many lineworkers, did you know we also employ more than 200 engineers?
We marked National Engineers Week in February, and World Engineering Day on March 4, but it’s still a great time to celebrate this group of practical problem-solvers and everything they do for the roughly 1.2 million customers we serve.
This year’s Engineers Week theme was “Design Your Future,” and that’s precisely what our engineers do at PSEG Long Island. We have civil engineers who design the foundations and
structures that physically support critical electrical infrastructure, laying the groundwork for the equipment that will power our lives.
We have electrical engineers who design the protection of the power system using protective relays, increasing the safety of those lineworkers who maintain the equipment, as well as the general public.
They’re laying the groundwork for the equipment that will power our lives.
We have radio frequency engineers who design and plan upgrades to PSEG Long Island’s advance metering infrastructure — an initiative that has improved billing accuracy, helped customers manage energy costs, and allowed us to even more effectively address outages. Thanks to our RF engineers, smart meters provide high read rates to improve bill accuracy and also call out their status nearly instantaneously, giving visibility of outages across the entire territory to develop efficient resource planning and provide faster outage restoration response.
We also have engineers focused on
finding cost-effective solutions to the challenges of a grid evolving to accommodate renewable energy. Some of this work is literally mapping out the future through Hosting Capacity Maps, Energy Storage Maps and Electric Vehicle Charging Maps. Engineering expertise has also been required to design the infrastructure upgrades required to interconnect with and transmit the renewable energy being built all around Long Island. This includes:
■ Engineering, surveying and designing a major expansion of the existing substation layout, including extensive relocation of existing transmission towers and redesigned transmission and substation layout in the most optimal and reliable manner to enable the interconnection of approximately 900 megawatts of offshore wind.
■ Engineering and designing a sturdier, resilient and creative solution in a space-constrained substation footprint to reliably serve increased customer demands and reduce the impact on
neighboring communities by implementing equipment that can blend in with the surrounding area.
■ Balancing environmental and community needs to service a growing customer base with new routes for power transmission on the South Fork.
■ Continuously evaluating and proposing solutions to enhance reliability and resiliency of the power grid in the evolving landscape of an energy and demand portfolio that includes renewable projects and electric vehicle demands.
I am proud to celebrate today’s PSEG Long Island engineers and everything they accomplish for the people of Long Island. At the same time, I want to celebrate the future engineers who might be reading this. We offer summer internships to college students, and we are frequently looking for new engineers to grow our ranks as we continue to build the energy grid of the future. Please visit psegliny.com/careers to learn more.
David Lyons is interim president and chief operating officer of PSEG Long Island.
nEELA MukhErjEE LockEL
DAViD LYons
Celebrating the immigrants who made America great
This month of March will see far more people attending more St. Patrick’s Day parades on Long Island and in New York City than in all of Ireland. This is a tribute to the enormous contributions that IrishAmericans have made to American life in so many fields and professions, and the importance the Irish attach to preserving and maintaining Irish traditions and culture for future generations. Whether in government, politics, the military, the police, business and finance or so many other areas of American life, the Irish have made their mark.
While these achievements are a tribute to Irish America, they are first and foremost a tribute to America, and the opportunities that are open to hardworking immigrants in our great coun-
try, which make it possible for new generations to take advantage of what has been accomplished by those who went before them.
The United States is more a stained glass window than a melting pot — a mosaic of people from many different countries, each maintaining their ethnic traditions and all comprising an overall beauty.
Despite the love for the ‘old country,’ it’s the U.S. that has helped them flourish.
The reality is that despite people’s love for the “old country,” it was the United States that made it possible for them to flourish and achieve their potential. With the Irish, it was centuries of oppression, religious bigotry, poverty and a murderous famine that compelled so many to leave the Emerald Isle. For Jews, it was antisemitism in so many Eastern European countries. For the Vietnamese boat people, it was all about fleeing Communist rule. And the list goes on.
But for this unique experiment to continue to succeed, traditions and the
rule of law must be maintained. One basic tradition that prevailed for so long was that immigrants would strive to learn and speak a common language — English. That would be the glue that bound together so many disparate peoples. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “We have room for only one language here, and that is the English language” — the language, T.R. said, of George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln, and of the Declaration of Independence. Failing to encourage immigrants to learn English consigns them to linguistic ghettos and prevents them from attaining the American Dream. Similarly, immigration must be done legally. There must be secure borders. At a time when the threat of international terrorism is so real, it is more essential than ever that we know who is in this country. There is also the necessity that we not allow people with criminal records or contagious illnesses to enter the country, keeping in mind that
it would be the immigrant community that suffered. When I was in Congress, there was a period of 17 months during which the ruthless Central American gang MS-13 butchered 25 people to death — each of those victims being a fellow immigrant.
As a grandson of immigrants, I strongly believe that it is the constant infusion of new generations of immigrants that has made our nation great. People from countries that have been warring and killing each other for centuries live here in peace. Old animosities die hard, and there may not be instant love, but they find ways to work together in peace and stand together in war. They are Americans.
So, as Americans, I hope we all celebrated St. Patrick’s Day — as we do Columbus Day, Israeli Day, Pulaski Day, Steuben Day, Caribbean Day and all the parades honoring the proud history of all the races, peoples and nations that have made America great.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
The rise and fall of Mayor Eric Adams
November 2021 was a significant month in the history of New York City. Eric Adams was elected the 110th mayor of that great city. By any measure, most of its 8.25 million residents were thrilled to have a new occupant of City Hall, after the two lackluster terms of Bill de Blasio. Adams rode to victory on the strength of being a former police officer and an experienced elected official.
While Adams is not a resident of the NassauSuffolk region, we Long Islanders have a close connection with the city, where we gravitate for work and/or entertainment. Adams was elected on a tidal wave of support from voters of both political parties. As an ex-cop, state senator and borough president, he came into Gracie Mansion with the hope that his tenure would give the city the breath of fresh air it badly needed.
De Blasio left office with very little goodwill. While he claimed numerous successes in building new housing,
there is no lasting monument anywhere in the city attesting to his success. Most of the stories about his time in office centered on his daily late arrival at City Hall after spending most of the morning exercising at a Brooklyn health club.
IFor some unexplained reason in the middle of his second term, de Blasio chose to declare his candidacy for the White House, which required frequent trips to Iowa and other primary states. His fantasy of being president required him to travel accompanied by taxpayer-funded police protection. All in all, de Blasio found a number of ways to alienate the voters in the Big Apple, and most city residents couldn’t wait for him to leave public office.
industry that needed a shot in the arm.
As a show of the need for reform, Adams selected Keechant Sewell as the city’s 45th police commissioner and its first woman in that job. Nassau County was a familiar place for Sewell, who had served in the Nassau County Police Department with distinction.
t’s a sad political tale, because his candidacy brought so much promise.
Adams started his term with a wave of good publicity about his plans for a better city. His pledges for police reform were welcomed, because the department was in need of changes and the city wanted someone who could lower the crime rate. His habit of visiting numerous nightspots was welcomed by some, because Adams was making a statement that it was safe to be out at night, and brought attention to an
For some of us who have served in government, Sewell’s short tenure as commissioner was a major disappointment. Her desire to do the job was encouraging, but shortly after she took office, there were numerous stories in the media that her appointments were being secondguessed by a City Hall deputy commissioner. When Sewell saw that her actions were being undermined, she decided to resign, and now is applying her talents to a well-paying job in the private sector.
To add to the mayor’s popularity decline, numerous deputies in his administration became embroiled in one bad story after another, and there were countless reports of alleged favoritism of one kind or another. The climax of the bad press occurred last month, when four highly respected deputies announced their resignations at
the same time.
The mayor was scheduled to go on trial next month on federal corruption charges, but the process was interrupted by the intervention of the U.S. Justice Department. With the obvious encouragement of President Trump, the prosecutors were ordered to drop the charges. Adams has denied that there was quid pro quo between him and the White House.
Whether he will get another term in office will be decided in June, when the Democratic city primary will take place. There are at least eight current candidates for mayor, with the field headed by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo. There are rumors that Adams may even run as a Republican, to avoid a primary loss as a Democrat.
The rise and fall of Eric Adams is a sad political tale. His candidacy brought so much promise to a city that was eager to have a new leader. Adams is no doubt disappointed by the events of the past three and a half years — and so are we.
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.
Millions are sick and tired of being sick and tired
this month marks five years since Covid-19 upended our world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1.2 million Americans died from the virus, including 86,000 New Yorkers. While life has largely returned to normal for many, an estimated 23 million Americans — 1 in 15 — and hundreds of millions more people around the globe remain trapped in a Covid nightmare.
They are suffering from post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2, or PASC, better known as long Covid. With no official definition, diagnostic tests, identifiable biomarkers, effective treatments or certainty of its causes, long Covid encompasses 200-plus symptoms appearing or persisting more than 12 weeks after a coronavirus infection.
Common symptoms often differ from those of acute Covid, and include debilitating fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, dysautonomia, post-exertion malaise, gastrointestinal issues, tachycardia, myalgia, neuropathy and breathing difficulties. No organ system is spared. Many “long haulers” have battled these health challenges for as long as five years, with no end in sight, and each combination of symptoms is unique and can change daily.
Benign-sounding terminology — fatigue, “brain fog,” “post-exertion malaise,” and even the name, long Covid — belie the condition’s severity. Millions of long haulers can’t work or even leave their beds. Many struggle to find words while speaking, or to remember recent events. Their skin burns, and their blood pressure fluctuates dangerously even when they’re sitting still.
Importantly, even mild or asymptomatic Covid infections can trigger long Covid, with each new infection increasing the risk. Some medical experts believe that almost all Americans will eventually experience some degree of the disorder. The healthiest people aren’t immune: Professional athletes have been forced to retire, and some marathon runners can now barely walk.
Without an official definition of long Covid, long haulers struggle to access Medicare, unemployment, disability and private insurance benefits when they
Inspired by a sense of sisterhood
If you have experience with long Covid — as a long hauler, caregiver, health care professional or in any other way — email us confidentially at longcovid@liherald.com.
In a rare show of unity, elected officials from both sides of the aisle, as well as scientists, doctors and policy experts, agree: America is failing the long Covid community.
Although the federal government provided $1.6 billion to the National Institutes of Health for research, those funds were wasted on an observational study rather than being used for clinical trials. Promising therapeutics remain unexplored due to funding gaps and bureaucratic obstacles, and no clinical trials got underway until just a few months ago — years after the start of the pandemic.
need them most. Medical bills not covered by insurance can mount into the hundreds of thousands of dollars for a single patient.
Last Saturday’s International Long Covid Awareness Day highlighted the disorder’s devastating human toll. Children missing their formative years, and single parents unable to support their families, are just a few examples. Here on Long Island, 200,000 people are estimated to have the chronic and debilitating condition. Tragically, excruciating pain and seemingly insurmountable hardships have led an increasing number of long haulers to take their own lives rather than continue to suffer as shells of their former selves.
And long Covid isn’t just a sobering health issue. Harvard University economist David Cutler estimates that it will cost the U.S. economy more than $3.7 trillion in earnings, medical expenses and quality of life. That’s equivalent to 12 percent of an entire year of U.S. GDP.
Our national security is also at risk, with an estimated 200,000 military personnel affected. Fatigue and physical limitations can render troops unable to fight, while cognitive issues may compromise critical decision-making and intelligence analysis.
letters
But Congress might be positioned to act. The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions — the chamber’s health care panel — has members who are intimately familiar with long Covid. Sen. Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat, has long Covid, and Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican and a doctor, has a close family member with the condition. At a January 2024 committee hearing, senators from both parties expressed frustration with federal efforts to find a cure.
Marshall described taking his loved one to dozens of doctors, consulting 80 additional doctors, speaking to other senators with the condition and reading extensively about it. He said he was beyond frustrated by the experience, as are many long haulers, who have seen scores of doctors — sometimes over 100 — in the hope of finding relief. Specialists, though, can have two-year waitlists, and many health care professionals remain unfamiliar with long Covid, which often leads to medical gaslighting.
The long Covid community needs help immediately. Government must provide funding and cut red tape to develop effective drugs, educate medical professionals, improve patient care coordination, authorize novel uses of existing therapeutics, streamline access to insurance benefits, accelerate time to market of new treatments, research biological causes, and support caregivers.
We hope the new administration, including President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., will take action commensurate with this growing crisis.
To the Editor: Kudos to Randi Kreiss for speaking the truth regarding the current state of our country in her op-ed last week, “Marching then, and marching now.” Her column was encouraging, and gave me hope that the things my friends and my daughters and I are currently doing will make a difference. Marching, meeting, or protesting with like-minded women brings me solace, and I come away feeling inspired by a sense of sisterhood. Hopefully those still peacefully asleep will awaken before it’s too late. Great work, Randi.
ELIzABETH MURPHY
opinions
Beyond the talking heads: the real path to financial success
in an age of constant media noise, financial advice shows have become a form of entertainment rather than genuine guidance. As Forbes wisely pointed out in 2021, turning off these programs and seeking professional advice remains the soundest approach to achieving your financial goals. Four years later, the advice remains more relevant than ever.
The talking heads on financial shows often serve up what can only be described as financial entertainment — flashy segments on hot stocks and market predictions designed to grab attention rather than provide personalized advice. These shows prioritize ratings and advertising dollars over your financial well-being.
During my early career in the investment business, I was asked by my manager to visit a client who was making trades online. In the previous week he had tried to make 15 trades, many of them in direct opposition to his risk tolerance. When I visited, I discovered that he had been injured at work, and for a week he had been watching the financial
news channels.
When I asked why he had made the trades, he told me those were the hot stocks or sectors that the commentators were talking about. I reviewed his risk tolerance and goals with him, and then told him the bad news: Had we allowed him to make those trades, he would have lost each time, because he was buying at the high point of the stock or sector.
What the TV shows fail to point out is that successful investing isn’t about chasing the latest trend; it’s about building a portfolio aligned with your risk tolerance and time horizon. A retirement portfolio for someone in their 30s looks dramatically different from one for someone approaching retirement in the next five years — context that gets lost in the one-size-fits-all recommendations of TV pundits.
More important, you need to arrive with clarity about your financial goals: education funding for your children; retirement timing and lifestyle expectations; geographic preferences for retirement; long-term care considerations; and legacy planning intentions.
w orking with a financial adviser is like working with an architect on your home.
The alternative to media noise is developing a relationship with a qualified financial adviser who can create a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique circumstances. That begins with an initial consultation, to which you should bring all relevant financial documents: tax returns, investment statements, insurance policies and employer benefits information.
Letters
A big month for theater in our schools
To the Editor:
March is Theatre in Our Schools Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the profound impact that theater education has on students, schools and communities. As a member of the Wantagh High School chapter of the International Thespian Society, I see how theater fosters creativity, confidence, collaboration and communication — essential skills for success in any field.
Theater is more than just performing on stage. It teaches students problemsolving, critical thinking and empathy by allowing them to step into the shoes of different characters and perspectives. Studies show that participation in theater programs enhances academic performance, improves literacy and public speaking skills, and strengthens students’ ability to work as a team. In our own school, productions like “Puffs” and “Jekyll & Hyde” have brought students together, inspired audiences and given young artists a voice. When I step on stage, I feel as though I’m diving headfirst into a world of pure magic, where reality blurs and the impossible becomes possible. It’s the
rush of dashing through the chaos of “Puffs,” the underdog energy buzzing in every scene, knowing that even the “others” have their moment to shine.
It’s the eerie thrill of “Jekyll & Hyde,” feeling the darkness and light battle within as the music swells, pulling the audience into the madness.
It’s the boundless joy of “SpongeBob,” where even the wildest, most ridiculous adventures carry real heart, and optimism soars as high as a sponge in mid-song. It’s the whimsy and wonder of “Peter and the Starcatcher,” where a simple rope can become a ship, and imagination turns the ordinary into something extraordinary. And it’s the absurdity of Monty Python’s “Spamalot,” where comedy and chaos reign, and every ridiculous moment is played with complete, glorious conviction. Stepping on stage is stepping into a story larger than life, where, for a little while, you’re not just yourself — you’re part of something bigger, something unforgettable.
We urge our community to support theater education by attending student performances, advocating for funding, and recognizing the immense value that the arts bring to our schools. Our upcoming performances include “Spamalot,” April 4-6, and the world premier of “Beyond the Gates,” a student-written original musical, on May 30.
Working with a financial adviser is comparable to collaborating with an architect on your dream home. The initial planning phase requires substantial effort, but it’s just the foundation of the journey. The real value emerges from implementing the action items identified in your plan.
The implementation phase typically involves fundamental but crucial steps: securing appropriate life and disability insurance, establishing automatic contributions to retirement accounts and education savings plans, and reviewing property and liability coverage. This way, your financial security won’t be compromised by an unforeseen event or inadequate coverage.
Financial planning isn’t a one-time event, but rather an ongoing process. Life rarely follows a straight line — career changes, family developments, health challenges and economic shifts all impact your financial trajectory. This reality necessitates regular reviews, typi-
cally annually, when your adviser can run projections to determine if adjustments are needed to keep you on track toward your goals.
Think of these reviews as similar to your annual physical. Just as your doctor monitors your health markers, your financial adviser assesses the health of your financial plan, making recommendations to strengthen areas that may have weakened or capitalize on new opportunities.
Financial success isn’t achieved through sprint-like approaches or quick fixes. It’s a marathon requiring patience, discipline and consistency. The financial media’s emphasis on day-to-day market movements contradicts this fundamental truth, potentially encouraging harmful behaviors like market timing and emotional decision-making.
Your journey toward financial wellbeing begins with a single step: scheduling an appointment with a qualified financial adviser who can serve as your coach throughout this marathon. With professional guidance and a welldesigned plan, you can tune out the noise and focus on the disciplined approach that leads to genuine financial success.
Gary Slavin is a financial adviser who serves on the boards of the New York State Professional Insurance Agents and the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce. Comments? Gslavin@lebenthal.com.
Framework by Tim Baker
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Theatre in Our Schools Month by supporting local productions and encouraging continued investment in arts education. Theater changes lives, and with our communities’ support, we
can ensure it remains a vital part of our students’ education.
LIAnnA MEnEGALLI Student choreographer, Troupe 1623 Wantagh High School
The Drama Club’s production of “Grease” — West Hempstead Secondary School
GarY sLaVin
