












Hard work paid off for these top two
Hard work paid off for these top two
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
The Wantagh Middle School cafeteria was decorated to resemble a city street on April 10, as the school hosted its 10th annual “Word on the Street” literacy celebration.
Lamppost cutouts and skyline posters set the scene for an evening of student and faculty performances celebrating the written word.
The English department organized the event, featuring more than 20 students, in the sixth through eighth grades, as well as faculty members, who
Continued on pAge 9
Melody Hong and Katherine Tian are MacArthur’s class of 2025 valedictorian and salutatorian
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
With grade point averages above 104 and 102, respectively, General Douglas MacArthur High School seniors Melody Hong and Katherine Tian have been named valedictorian and salutatorian of the class of 2025, earning top honors at the Levittown school after years of academic dedication.
Hong and Tian learned of their honors in February. While both had a feeling they were near the top of their class, they were still surprised when the
news became official.
For Tian, the announcement marked the realization of a goal she had envisioned since her sophomore year. “There are a lot of really smart students that are competitive here,” she said. “It was happy news. Definitely not what I was expecting.”
MacArthur Principal Joseph Sheehan said that both students earned the recognition. “These two phenomenal young ladies possess all the necessary traits, skills and empathy that are paramount not only for success, but also for truly embody-
ing all the characteristics that make up the ideal role model for others,” Sheehan said.
Over the course of her high school career, Hong took 11 Advanced Placement courses, and Tian completed 10. For Hong, AP Physics 2 stood out as a defining challenge. As a junior, found herself in a class filled with seniors.
“It was definitely eye-opening knowing nothing about it beforehand, and then having to keep up with the class,” she said, “but I’m really grateful that I did.”
She credited her teacher,
George Donavan, and her classmates for encouraging her to ask questions and work through problems.
For Tian, AP Calculus BC, which she took this year, proved memorable because of its difficulty.
“It’s one of the only math classes that I’ve actually strug-
gled with,” she said. “There’s a lot of studying and work put into it.”
Last month, Hong placed sixth in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, a prestigious national science research competition for high school students, earning an $80,000 schol-
Continued on pAge 6
Administration says promotions, tenure, sabbaticals are on hold until new agreement is reached
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Faculty tensions at Nassau Community College escalated last week after Chief Administrative Officer Maria Conzatti announced that she would not submit faculty names for tenure, promotion or sabbatical to the college’s board of trustees until a new contract agreement is reached — despite the fact that the current contract is in effect until Aug. 31.
The announcement, made at the April 3 general faculty meeting, drew sharp criticism from the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers. Union leaders claim the decision circumvents provisions of the existing collective bargaining agreement, particularly those related to faculty advancement during the final year of a signed contract.
“Our faculty was absolutely stunned to learn that NCC has unilaterally chosen to deny these standard promotions, sabbaticals and tenure positions to our hardworking professors,” David Stern, the acting NCCFT president, said. “This is truly unprecedented, and demonstrates why NCC and the board of trustees are losing confidence and enrollment while slashing programs and mismanaging our finances.”
Jessica Harris, attorney for the union, said that the administration is legally obligated to follow the recommendations of committees, composed of faculty members and an administrator, that approve faculty members’ advancement and sabbaticals.
“NCC administrators have no legal basis to refuse to consider the committees’ recommendations for promotions and sabbaticals,” Harris said. “If the administration persists in its refusal to inform the board of trust-
ees of the committees’ recommendations, in flagrant disregard of the CBA, we will explore all legal options.”
Speaking on behalf of the administration, Jerry Kornbluth, vice president of the Office of Community and Governmental Relations, pushed back against the union’s claims. He said the accusation that the administration is violating the collective bargaining agreement is a “false narrative,” emphasizing that the college is operating under the current 2021–25 contract.
According to Kornbluth, union representatives have not responded to invitations to begin discussions of the 2025–26 contract. He also noted that faculty members must meet “certain standards,” depending on the promotion they are seeking, with evaluations
conducted by the committees. Once approved, nominations are forwarded to the president.
“Until there is a conversation about the contract for 2025–26, those promotions, sabbaticals and tenure don’t take effect until the fall of 2025 — under the new contract,” Kornbluth said. “The contract acts on Aug. 31; a new one, whether there is a negotiated one or not, kicks in on Sept. 1.”
Many faculty members have already completed the formal review process and received committee approval. The union accuses the administration of stalling contractual obligations and blocking professional advancement at a time when many professors face increased financial strain due to the rising cost of living.
Kornbluth said that when no formal contract is in place, the college operates under a memorandum of agreement signed by both the administration and the union. That agreement allows the president to move faculty nominations forward for board approval.
Stern said that 15 faculty members had been recommended by their respective committees. “There has been virtually no dialogue or willingness by Ms. Conzatti or her administration,” he said.
The faculty organized a gathering on April 8 in the CCB building. Organizers said the event aimed to draw public attention to the ongoing contract and personnel disputes.
“In all my years that I’ve been at the college — which is 50 — there has never been a time that somebody who is nominated for promotion, sabbatical or tenure did not get it,” Kornbluth said. “This is all about trying to make the president, the administration look bad.”
Stuart Richner Publisher Rhonda Glickman V.P. Sales
Hirsch
The Firefighter Michael J. Cawley Memorial Foundation held its 23rd annual benefit on April 5 at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, continuing its mission to support those affected by 9/11-related illnesses and to provide scholarships to students at Archbishop Molloy High School.
The event honors Michael J. Cawley, an FDNY firefighter who died while responding to the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Cawley, a Queens native and 1987 graduate of Archbishop Molloy, was known for his community service and dedication to helping others.
Proceeds from the evening will benefit both causes central to the foundation’s work.
— Charles Shaw
Brendan Cawley, Michael’s brother, spoke to the audience as award recipients stand behind
Tips for staying physically and mentally healthy came straight from the source recently, as Seaford High School students stepped into the role of mentors for their younger peers. Over the course of two days, volunteers from the high school visited seventh grade
Four groups of high school students were paired up based on shared interests and gave presentations to middle school health classes. Topics were chosen by the students themselves and included a digital slideshow, discussion, and a class activity.
health classes at Seaford Middle School to lead wellness presentations on topics that matter most to teens. Each session was student-led and covered subjects like healthy eating, exercise, time management, bullying, cyberbullying and vaping. “Whatever topic they
Students didn’t just recite facts—they shared their own stories. Junior Rob Jeranek was part of a group that presented on diet, exercise and vaping. “It’s great that students get to learn new health tips from people like them,” he said. He also spoke about how changing his eating habits led to a major improvement in his health. Mantay said the presentations were filled with genuine, personal stories, and he praised the students for their honesty and willingness to be vulnerable.
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chose is something they felt passionate about presenting,” said Assistant Principal Alex Mantay. “The students really stepped up, as some of these issues can be hard to talk about. If we got through to even just one student that would make it worthwhile.”
The idea for the program came from the school’s Wellness Committee, which includes administrators, teachers and pupil personnel services staff. With support from health teachers Kristen Ancona, Ken Botti, Kurt Dankenbrink and Cara Klasson, the high schoolers were invited into classrooms to share what they’ve learned. Mantay said they’re hoping to make it an annual event, adding that the project highlighted key Seaford Scholar traits, such as being communicators, networkers, mindful, principled, reflective and risk-takers.
Residents on Duncan Court in Wantagh say their street has fallen into disrepair, with one neighbor claiming it hasn’t been fully repaved since the 1970s, according to news reports.
The 11-house block has long dealt with chipped pavement, cracks and potholes. In a News12 report, residents said the conditions have caused people to fall, damaged car tires and kept children from riding their bikes.
Brian Devine, spokesperson for the
Town of Hempstead, told the Herald the town has increased the number of roads it repaves annually and is on track to surpass 100 miles of roadway repaved this year — including Duncan Court.
“While we are immediately addressing area potholes, Duncan Court is slated for a new valley gutter this year and a full mill and pave next year,” Devine said.
Calhoun Senior Lacrosse
IT WAS A HISTORIC afternoon for Aievoli April 7 when the Colts defeated Carle Place, 14-6. The senior midfielder found the back of the net seven times, including the 100th goal of her high school career, to lead Calhoun’s offense. On the season, the multitalented threat ranks among Nassau County’s top 5 scorers with 26 goals and 11 assists through seven games, leading the Colts to a 6-1 start in the process. In 2024, she tallied 30 goals and 13 assists.
Thursday, April 17
Baseball: Farmingdale at Massapequa...................10 a.m.
Baseball: Malverne at Plainedge.............................10 a.m.
Baseball: MacArthur at East Meadow .....................10 a.m.
Baseball: Long Beach at Baldwin ...........................10 a.m.
Baseball: Mepham at Hewlett .................................10 a.m.
Baseball: Calhoun at Kennedy ................................10 a.m.
Softball: Uniondale at East Rockaway.....................10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Mepham .....................10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Baldwin at Calhoun .........................10 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: South Side at Carey........................11 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Long Beach at Oceanside ................1 p.m.
Saturday, April 19
Softball: Freeport at East Rockaway ..........................9 a.m.
Baseball: West Hempstead at V.S. Central ..............10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Lynbrook at North Shore .................10 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Plainedge ...............11 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Mepham at Baldwin ..........................1 p.m.
Monday, April 21
Girls Lacrosse: Lynbrook at Mineola .......................10 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Freeport at Malv/East Rock. .............1 p.m.
Baseball: Mepham at Calhoun .................................5 p.m.
Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Oceanside ....................5 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
On the heels of a near county championship season, Wantagh softball has come out of the gates strong in 2025 seeking another late spring run.
Wantagh graduated five starters from last year’s 17-5 team that fell to Seaford in the Class A championship series, but began the new season with five straight wins and a 5-1-1 start bolstered by some strong newcomers. The Warriors are coming off an 8-8 tie with Conference I foe Syosset in a non-league game last Friday called in the seventh inning due to rain.
“Our youth is pulling their weight beyond what I could have predicted,” said longtime Wantagh coach Christine Moran. “We thought initially it was going to be much more of a rebuilding season”
Senior center fielder Emma Priest is once again the team’s offensive leader after a big junior season in which she batted .472 with 20 RBIs. The Adelphibound Priest knocked in three runs in Wantagh’s dominating 12-0 win against Bethpage on April 4.
The Warriors also returned ace sophomore pitcher Lucy Olore, who recorded 165 strikeouts as a freshman and was Conference II pitcher of the year. Olore tossed a three-hitter with five strikeouts in Wantagh’s 7-1 victory at Glen Cove on April 1.
“She is clutch,” Moran said of Olore, who also shined at the plate last year with a .303 batting average. “She is really coming along for a 10th grader.”
Sophomore Gianna Muscarnera adds to the pitching depth as the number two pitcher behind Olore. Muscarnera threw a two-hitter with five strikeouts in the Bethpage win.
Mackenzie Hayes brings senior leadership to the table as the starting left fielder after playing a key role in last year’s run to the county finals. Hayes, who has been on varsity since eighth grade, registered a double with two RBIs in Wantagh’s 6-3 win at Mepham on March 28.
Megan Martone and the Warriors are running
reaching the Class A final last spring.
The middle infield has seen some strong new additions this spring between freshman shortstop Savannah Gandini and eighth grade second baseman Megan Martone, who provides a spark in the lineup as a leadoff slap hitter. Moran said sophomore Haylie Kissinger is also making big strides this season in her third season on varsity.
“It literally can be anybody at any moment, which has been really cool to see,” said Moran of how many players are stepping up game-to-game. “Even kids coming off the bench have been huge.”
Wantagh will host defending Conference III champion Carle Place in a crossover game Thursday at 11 a.m. before visiting local rival Seaford on April 22 in a rematch of last year’s county championship.
Moran said for the returning players, last year’s finals loss is motivation fuel but they remain focused on not looking too far ahead.
“The long term goal is to get back to that, but we’re more about game day goals and practice day goals now,” Moran said. “It may fuel them but they don’t let on to it.”
arship. She was one of 40 finalists nationwide, and one of just four from Nassau County.
For the talent search, she submitted a project titled, “A Bayesian Exploration into more Flexible trans-Methylation Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping,” in which she developed alternative statistical methods to better identify genetic variants of complex diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Type 1 diabetes. According to Hong, these variants are important to help understand the genetic basis of DNA methylation, a chemical modification of DNA that helps control the function of a gene.
In addition to Regeneron, Hong has been involved in Science Olympiad since middle school, and became team captain as a sophomore. It is a national competition in which students compete in various events related to science, including biology, chemistry, physics and engineering. She said she enjoyed preparing for competitions and exploring science while leading and collaborating with her teammates.
“All the memories I’ve made with my teammates, as well as all the friends I’ve made outside of school through it, I’ll never forget,” Hong said.
She is also principal cellist in the school’s chamber orchestra and is a member of the National, Math and Tri-M honor society, the last a national organization recognizing academic and musical achievement, leadership and service.
After graduation, Hong plans to major in applied mathematics, pursue a Ph.D. and become a biostatistician. She has been accepted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, her top choice, as well as Harvard and Princeton universi-
ties.
Tian credited her community service for shaping her educational journey. Originally from Flushing, Queens, she is still active in her old neighborhood. Last year she canvassed for Vickie Paladino’s New York City Council campaign and took on a leadership role in Ron Kim’s campaign for the Assembly — experiences she said deepened her understanding of the community in which she grew up in. She also tutors elementary school students through the New York Tutoring Center in Flushing.
Tian plans to study neuroscience at New York University next year, and is excited about the next chapter of her life, despite the larger workload she anticipates.
Asked if she had any advice for incoming students, Hong said it’s good to set goals while prioritizing personal growth and learning.
“Everyone has their own aspirations, and they’re all totally valid,” Hong said, “so it’s good to set those and spend high school just doing what you enjoy and learning more about yourself.”
Grades are important, but they can only take you so far, Tian said. Her goal in high school was to maintain good grades, but she also emphasized the importance of considering future goals.
“Don’t be too sensitive about just academic scores,” she said. “Try to find something that you want to do instead.”
Both said they appreciated the encouragement of their teachers and the friendships they’ve made along the way. “We’re really grateful for all the love and care we’ve received from our teachers,” Hong said, “but also our amazing friends here.”
In a welcoming space, preparing kids of all ages to compete in Long Island Junior League
By MELINDA ROLLS & CHRISTINA ARLOTTOA Special to the Herald
Second in a series of stories on immigration through a partnership between Herald Community Newspapers and Hofstra University.
As the sun dipped behind the trees in Uniondale on a recent Thursday, the rhythmic pulse of soccer balls colliding with cleats mixed with the sharp calls of coaches in Spanish. On the well-worn grass, athletes lined up one by one in familiar ritual, launching powerful kicks into the net as the goalkeeper battled each incoming shot.
The young athletes scattered across the field behind NuHealth’s A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility in Uniondale were members of the New York Soccer Latin Academy. The club, based in Uniondale-Hempstead, was founded in 2002 by NYSLA coach Francisco Guerrero to train players ages 5 to 19 for competition in the Long Island Junior Soccer League.
Community roots
Volunteer coaches, including Salvador Alvarenga, of Long Beach, who emigrated from El Salvador and started coaching when the team was founded, run the team. He began playing soccer at age 6, and after his playing career ended, transitioned to coaching to stay connected to the game.
Alvarenga highlighted the team’s family-centered culture, noting that many players have virtually grown up on soccer fields, especially those with older siblings already on the team. “For most of them, their mom was pregnant and they were already on the field … They practically were born here,” Alvarenga said.
He added that it was rewarding to know that the local Hispanic community recognizes NYSLA as a welcoming space for their children. “It’s really good to know that the Spanish community knows that we are here, and that they can bring the kids here,” Alvarenga said.
In line with family values, one of the academy’s core commitments since its creation has been maintaining affordable costs for families, which Alvarenga said is often not the case for American soccer academies. “We just charge basic fees to cover our expenses,” he said. “And now we’ve been surviving for 23 years, so we’re doing something good.”
With over two decades of coaching experience with NYSLA, Alvarenga explained that his coaching philosophy centers on more than developing skilled players. Instead, it is about instilling a deep love for the sport and discipline to prepare players for success beyond the game.
“They have to try their best,” Alvarenga said. “That’s what we try to tell them all the time, so they try to excel in whatever they do.”
Alvarenga shared that his greatest source of motivation to continue coach-
ing comes from watching young players grow and evolve through the academy.
“That’s our payment,” he said.
Friendship on the field
Two players share a bond that extends beyond passing the soccer ball. Kelli Crespin, 15, of Hempstead, and Angelina Escobar, 14, of Franklin Square, have spent the past seven years as the only two girls on their team’s roster.
Escobar, with family from Mexico and El Salvador, was first introduced to soccer by her grandfather. Crespin, with roots in El Salvador and Honduras, discovered the game through her older brother while he was playing for the academy
“I just came along with him, and the coach asked if I wanted to play,” Crespin said. “I ended up liking it, and I just kept coming back.”
But it wasn’t just the game that kept her coming back — it was also her friendship with Escobar, who became her closest friend on the team.
Both girls said that while playing exclusively with boys presents its own set of challenges, they are grateful for the resilience it has instilled in them. “Playing with the boys made me really strong,” Escobar said. “I’m not as sensitive anymore.”
Both girls shared that their coaches at the academy have also taught them valuable lessons that extend beyond the field. “I’ve learned a lot, and not just about soccer,” Crespin said. “It’s about becoming a better person while being more active.”
Escobar said her time under Guerrero’s coaching has profoundly shaped her as a player and beyond. “I’ve learned a lot from him because he’s taught me everything I know,” Escobar said. “How to play on the field, how to not be dirty,
how to act.”
After years of dedication to the team, Crespin emphasized her desire to now serve as a role model for younger team members.
face off during practice.
“I would like to show them that no matter what, you can always do what you want to do,” Crespin said. “If you’re passionate about something, continue it. Keep on going.”
took turns reciting poetry. Some shared original poems, lyrics or short stories, while others read favorites from wellknown poets, including Shel Silverstein and Robert Frost.
English teacher Christine Hult, who has organized the event since its inception, said it offers a valuable opportunity for students who may be hesitant to speak in front of a crowd.
“That’s all I want,” Hult said, “is for them to have an experience speaking in front of people, because they’re going to be doing that in the high school.”
Poems ranged from humorous — such as a piece explaining lab safety using visual props like beakers and flasks — to more serious works dealing with personal feelings, including depression and anxiety.
Eighth grader Valentina RodriguezBeltran, a master of ceremonies for the evening, has participated in the event since sixth grade. The experience has helped her and fellow emcee and eighth grader, Giada Petrillo, gain confidence in expressing their work publicly.
“It’s amazing,” Valentina said. “It’s just a bunch of people that love literature coming here to share pieces that they love, and you also learn from these pieces.”
Valentina recited two of her original poems — “The Future,” which reflects her thoughts on what lies ahead, and “Eve’s Temptation,” which explores Eve’s perspective in the biblical story of Adam and Eve.
For Valentina, poetry is a way to express herself — whether she’s reciting lines from a favorite piece or writing down her own thoughts.
“It’s a way of art to be able to express your feelings and just show it throughout all of your works,” she said.
Giada, who has also participated since sixth grade, said the event is similar to a family gathering, with everyone connected by a love of writing. The evening marked the first time she shared her poetry with others, she said.
Giada recited her poem “Flame,” which reflects on feeling overwhelmed by doing too much. She compared herself to a flame that dims with time, capturing the emotional toll of being con -
stantly busy.
Science teacher Tom Vereline presented his poem, “Home,” which looks back on his 32 years of teaching in Wantagh. Vereline, 55, said he’s retiring at the end of this school year and wrote the opening lines of the poem two years ago, knowing his retirement was approaching.
He said he’s always loved the annual event and felt inspired by the students to share one of his own pieces during his final year at the school.
“I figured if these kids can get up here and put themselves out there, I figured it’s the least I could do,” he said.
In his poem, Vereline, of Massapequa Park, describes Wantagh as his “second home.” Over the years, he has coached the middle school’s baseball and basketball teams and served as faculty advisor to Student Council.
“More than half my life has been spent in this town,” he said. “It will always be a second home to me.”
“Word on the Street” offers students
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a chance to come out of their shell — something that can be difficult for this generation, who are often self-conscious, Hult noted.
“When I can get kids to do this, I
know that my job is done,” she said, “because they don’t want to put themselves out there. It’s very hard for them to do that.”
She said she works throughout the year to build trust with her students, encouraging them to participate and helping them gain the confidence to go on stage. Hult added that she doesn’t give up on them or take “no” for an answer.
“They trust me,” she said. “I have a disarming personality by nature, I’m goofy, I have fun with them, and they know that if they work for me, we’re going to have fun.”
Giada said Hult, who is her teacher this year, has taught her students valuable life lessons, such as understanding that no one is perfect and that it’s OK to express themselves.
“She’s just helped me come out of my shell so much more,” Giada said. “I’m much more comfortable with other kids in my grade, and I’m more comfortable at just expressing myself and not having to be so perfect all the time.”
Hult said the program grows every year, with more students choosing to write their own poetry, crediting this to word of mouth and a growing interest in creative expression through writing.
“Kids are coming back and saying, ‘You know, I didn’t think I was going to enjoy it, but I ended up really, really enjoying it,’” she said.
Each one of us experience countless injustices in the course of everyday living. Like other experiences, it is not the experience itself so much that counts, but how you process it. The Mayo Clinic addresses the health benefits of “forgiveness” which they define as “an intentional decision to let go of resentment and anger”. Letting go of grudges and bitterness can lead to:
• Healthier relationships
• Improved mental health
• Less anxiety, stress and hostility
• Fewer symptoms of depression
• Lower blood pressure
• A stronger immune system
• Improved heart health
• Improved self-esteem
• Better sleep
Everett Worthington, Profession Emeritus of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, provides a free workbook at evworthington-forgiveness.com to aid those for whom forgiveness may be difficult (most
of us!), focusing on the REACH method.
Recall: Recall the hurt. Look at the incident in an objective way and don’t try to push aside your feelings.
Empathize: Empathize with the offender without excusing the action or invalidating your own feelings. Maybe the person was having a bad day or was raised in dire circumstances.
Altruistic gift: Give the altruistic gift of forgiveness. Think about a time when you were rude or harsh, and recognize that everyone has shortcomings.
Commit: Make a decision to forgive. You can write a letter that you don’t send to help yourself make the commitment.
Hold: Hold on to forgiveness. Memories of the transgression or event won’t change. But how you react to those feelings will.
“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned”. —Buddha
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Students at the Jewish Early Learning Center at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life celebrated Passover early by participating in a model Seder. Passover officially began this year on April 12, and the model Seder allowed the students to take part in a “practice run” before experiencing the actual holiday with their families.
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from slavery in Egypt, as told in the Book of Exodus. It typically lasts eight days and begins with a ceremonial meal called a Seder. The Seder follows a special book called the Haggadah, which guides participants through the retelling of the Exodus story with prayers, songs, and discussion.
Central to the Seder is the Seder plate, which holds symbolic foods. Some components of these plates include bitter herbs to represent the bitterness of slavery, a mixture of fruit and nuts symbolizing the mortar used by the slaves, a vegetable, usually parsely, dipped in salt water to represent tears, and an egg, representing mourning and the cycle of life. Each of these components were on the students’ plates during the model Seder.
Matzah, or unleavened bread, is eaten throughout Passover to recall how the Israelites left Egypt in such haste that their dough didn’t have time to rise. Participants also drink four cups of wine at designated points in the Seder, each symbolizing a stage of redemption and freedom. One of the most wellknown moments of the evening is the asking of the Four Questions, traditionally recited by the youngest person at the table, prompting a discussion about why this night is different from all other nights. The Seder is a time of storytelling, reflection, and celebration shared with family and community.
Chabad preschool teachers led their students through the Seder, explaining different parts of the meal and the holiday in general. After, they walked through the “Red Sea” — another significant part in the Passover story, because it marks the dramatic moment when the Israelites were finally freed from slavery in Egypt. According to the Book of Exodus, after Pharaoh refused to release the Israelites, God sent a series of plagues to convince him. After the tenth
Learning about the Seder before the holiday allows students to have an active role in the important meal.
and final plague, the death of the Egyptian firstborns, Pharaoh relented and allowed the Israelites to leave.
As they fled Egypt, the Israelites found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army, which Pharaoh had sent to recapture them. In one of the most iconic moments of the Exodus story, God parted the waters of the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land. This miraculous event is seen as a symbol of divine intervention and liberation. It highlights the themes of freedom, salvation, and God’s protection, which are central to the Passover celebration.
Gayle Benno, the director of admissions to the Jewish Early Learning Center, said they have a model Seder every year, adding that the kids are always excited for it. Benno said they explain the significance of the Four Questions, as it’s a pivotal role that the youngest members of the family ask during the Passover story.
“The whole reason we do Seder like this is to tell the story for children,” she said. “We keep reminding the children of what happened, of the story, in a kid friendly way.”
Success in mathematics, as most of us are aware, has been linked to success in college and future careers.
Every student studies mathematics, and it has always been an important component in education. It is a tool that helps us make sense of the world around us, and it is particularly important because success in mathematics has been linked to success in college and future careers. Simply stated, math counts when it comes to a bright future.
“The deluge of data that children encounter in their daily lives makes it even more important that they build strong math and statistics skills,” says education expert Dr. Richard Bavaria.“This flood of information contains good data and bad. “Good skills in math and statistics can equip your child with the ability to discern valid data from misleading data, and to make intelligent decisions based on factual data.”
Dr. Bavaria offers these helpful tips that parents can use to bridge the gap between fear of math and the vibrant essential world of numbers that are so important in our daily lives.
Validate It: Don’t be a parent who says “I was never good at math.” It only sends the wrong message that “math is hard”; and it has null value. Instead, stress that math is something that has to be learned by putting time
and effort into it like anything else.
Add It Up: Point out math in everyday life. Make sure your child knows that math is relevant, whether it’s figuring out how long a road trip will take or making a grocery budget. Think aloud and let your child see you work out everyday math problems.
Multiply it: Find the resources that will help your child acquire the math skills he or she needs. There are plenty of resources available geared to teaching and building math skills for students of all ages. You’ll find everything from entertaining math tricks to multiplication shortcuts to practice sessions.
Solve It: Get help, if needed, before it’s too late.
While classroom learning may be enough for one child, it may not be enough for another. Supplemental math instruction from a professional source can provide the one-on-one attention that is sometimes missing from a busy classroom. Giving a child the time and opportunity to ask questions and learn math at their own pace can open doors of understanding and eventually provide them with the confidence they need to learn in a classroom setting.
Photo: Encouraging a love for math in children is
By Anna Graci
Herald Community Media and RichnerLIVE successfully launched the first event in the 2025 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series, presented by Nassau University Medical Center, on Friday, April 4, at the East Meadow Beth-El Jewish Center in East Meadow. This free community event drew hundreds of attendees, including seniors, families, and caregivers, eager to learn about the latest in wellness, lifestyle enhancements, and essential health resources.
The expo featured a vibrant lineup of educational vendors and interactive activities, ensuring that attendees were both entertained and informed. “It was an incredible turnout,” said Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations and events at RichnerLIVE.
A key highlight of the day was the “Stop the Bleed” training session led by Nassau University Medical Center’s Sloan Yoselowitz, DPT, CSCS, the hospital’s director of community outreach. This national campaign teaches people how to control severe bleeding in emergency situations before medical help arrives. The presentation emphasized the importance of immediate action in improving survival rates.
The crowd also enjoyed a dose of humor during a comedy show featuring comedian Larry Izzo.
Attendees were given complimentary swag bags sponsored by Silver Lining Homecare. A 10-minute guided exercise session by Excel Homecare Inc. helped get audience members’ blood pumping, while SightGrowth Partners offered eye test screenings.
Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Nassau University Medical Center, and our program sponsors — PSEG Long Island, Parker Jewish Institute Health Care and Rehabilitation, Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the NYS Department of Public Service Long Island, and the Sid Jacobson JCC — for their vital support.
Please visit our website to view our photo gallery from April 4: www.richnerlive.com/seniorexpo/2025senior-health-beyond-expo-of-long-island-photo-gallery.
Join us for the next Herald Senior Health & Beyond Expo for 2025, which will be held on May 22 at the Massapequa Elks Lodge #2162 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For a full list of Expos, go to liherald.com.
By MELISSA BERMAN & JEFFREY BESSEN of the Herald
Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti, a Republican, will face off against Democrat Joseph K. Scianablo for Hempstead town supervisor.
Both are replacement candidates, because incumbent Supervisor Don Clavin, a Republican, and his expected Democratic opponent, Justin Brown, both declined their parties’ nominations. There are reports that Clavin will run for a county court judgeship on this year’s ballot.
Ferretti, a Levittown resident, has served as a county legislator for over seven years, and he highlighted his efforts to control the tax burden for Nassau County residents.
“The committee looked for someone who is a proven tax slayer, helped make Nassau County the safest in the United States, fought antisemitism and hate in general, is involved in the community and with his family, and has been a lifelong resident of the Town of Hempstead,” Joe Cairo, the Nassau County Republican Committee chairman, said at the April 10 announcement.
Scianablo, a Garden City resident, brings a career of leadership, integrity and compassion, according to the county Democratic Party, having served in the Marines in Iraq and as a New York City police officer. Most recently he was
an assistant district attorney in Queens.
Raised in what was described as a working-class family, Scianablo enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1996. After his military service, he joined the NYPD, in which his focus was domestic violence. After retiring he earned his law degree, and dedicated his legal career to justice and public safety.
“Public service isn’t only what you do, it’s who you are. I’ve served my country, my city, and my community — and I’m ready to serve the people of
Hempstead,” Scianablo said in a news release. “I’m running to lower the tax burden, clean up our broken infrastructure, and bring transparency back to Town Hall.”
Ferretti highlighted his work to stop antisemitism and hate crimes, enhance resources for police and protect women.
“When you decide to run for elected office, you do it because you want to make a different in people’s lives,” he said. “I feel I have the experience in both the private sector and government
that qualifies me for this position. In government, I have both administrative and legislative experience.”
The Democrats highlighted the town’s 12.1 percent property tax increase, pay raises for top officials and long-neglected infrastructure problems as the issues they are aiming to resolve.
“Joe Scianablo is exactly the kind of leader Hempstead needs right now,” County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs said in the release. “His courage, character, and deep commitment to public service make him the right candidate to take on the status quo. Joe has spent his life protecting others — he’ll bring that same fierce dedication to fighting for every family in Hempstead.”
The Republicans focused on Ferretti’s two local landmark laws, Fairness for Women and Girls in Sports and the Mask Transparency Act.
“Nassau Legislator John Ferretti has distinguished himself as a county legislator, holding the line on taxes every year and even reducing the tax burden for Nassau homeowners,” Cairo said.
Scianablo’s campaign aims to focus on lifting up working families. “I’ve never backed down from a fight — and I won’t back down from the fight for the people of Hempstead,” he said in the release. “This town deserves a leader who shows up, stands tall, and delivers real results. That’s exactly what I intend to do.”
Naps, knitting and nuzzling with the grandchildren — the traditional image of retirement is being challenged by the more than 76 million baby boomers in the United States.
This vibrant generation wants to make the most out of their golden years, and while hobbies and time with grandkids are a priority, they want more. To do so, we know that a proactive approach to health and wellness is a must.
Matt Johnson, a health and performance expert, admires the tenacity boomers — and all seniors — exhibit when it comes to maintaining their health and well-being. He suggests these incredibly simple, yet powerful ways to age healthfully, and keep those engines revving at peak performance, no matter how vintage the model.
Take advantage of pit stops
“Lack of sleep is the fastest way to age the human body,” says Johnson.
“Additionally, adequate sleep is extremely important for a healthy brain. Deep REM sleep allows the mind to rejuvenate. Memory, creativity and cognitive function get refreshed in this stage of sleep.”
He recommends three steps to achieve quality sleep. First, go to bed at the correct time to achieve eight hours of sleep. Second, unplug and avoid digital devices that put out stimulating blue light. Third, add the relaxing mineral magnesium to your routine by taking an Epsom salt bath or foot bath once a week.
Fuel your machine
“I like to tell people to think of nutrition as fuel for the body; without the correct fuel, the engine and components can’t work correctly,” says Johnson. “The most critical nutrients that boomers don’t get enough of are supergreens and omega-3s.
We know we all need to eat more green veggies, but did you know that up to 91 percent of the American population is deficient in omega-3s?”
Get an oil change
Some oils are considered healthy and others
cause health problems. Johnson recommends you reevaluate the types of oils you use.
Add:
√ Use extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for salad dressings, baking and low-temperature sautéing.
√ Consider avocado oil. With its high smoke point, it’s ideal for high-heat cooking techniques like frying and sautéing. Avocado oil is rich in oleic acid, polyunsaturated fats, carotenoids, and other antioxidant-rich nutrients that are linked to improved heart, skin, and eye health.
Remove:
√ Vegetable oils like canola and soybean, which are heavily processed and often made with GMOs.
Rev your engines daily
“The benefits of exercise are endless, but the underdog benefit is how it makes us feel and think,” says Johnson. “You should move your body if you want to stay sharp and happy.”
Find an exercise program you enjoy, he suggests. “Exercise is the fountain of youth, but you shouldn’t do something you don’t like. Make sure you move your body daily. If you are looking for suggestions, think about hiring a trainer to learn a set program. I think focusing on form and technique over intensity is the first step.”
Schedule regular maintenance checks
“Play offense instead of defense with your health,” says Johnson. “Modern medicine is better than ever at early detection and treatment.”
The key is to focus on prevention. “Use annual doctor visits to screen, ask questions and monitor your risk factors. Remember, you can only get good answers if you ask good questions,” he says.
Finally, Johnson reminds people that antiaging doesn’t exist. “We are all aging — the key is to age well. This means to aspire to quality of life. We all have motivators in our life: kids, grandkids, spouses, careers, passions, etc. Without your health, none of these can be enjoyed to the fullest.”
Activities you can do at home that help boost brain health
By Kristen Castillo
We all know that it’s important to keep your brain sharp as you age.
“In order to engage our brains for an ideal level of challenge, we should aim for something that is new, novel and challenging to maximize our effort — grow our brains, new neurons and strengthen our neuronal networks,” says certified brain health coach Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, M.A., founder of Your Brain Health Matters, LLC and an Atlantic fellow for Equity in Brain Health.
Dr. Culler says brain health is 70 percent lifestyle and 30 percent genetics. She encourages people to think about brain fitness the same way they think about physical exercise. That means giving your brain a 15- to 20-minute daily workout, adding up to at least two hours a week.
Read on for easy ways to stimulate your brain.
Game On!
Playing games — whether it’s chess, puzzles, Mah Jongg or computer games, such as Words With Friends or Wordle — may help your brain to stay engaged.
For example, smartphone apps can be an entertaining and challenging activity for the brain. One app, Elevate, uses artificial intelligence to create custom exercises for each user, tailored to their personal goals.
In a four-week study of 125 Elevate users, conducted for the game company by a researcher at California State University, Stanislaus, and Nichols Research, Inc., participants who had access to Elevate games and training exercises improved their test scores “69 percent more than the control group, which did not have access to the games and exercises.”
While research on the overall benefits of cognitive games is mixed, one study shows participants may get good at a mind-stimulating activity, such as crosswords, even if those gaming skills don’t transfer to other brain health, like attention to problem-solving.
Still, that doesn’t mean the activity isn’t valuable. You can have a healthier, happier life by participating in games and activities you enjoy.
Read, Read, Read
Challenge your brain with reading but mix up your habits.
Dr. Culler suggests reading a different section of the newspaper than you usually would or reading a new book or magazine. Next, read some passages out loud, which she says can activate different areas of your brain.
Read with the intent to share the message with friends. You will be more mindful and process the information differently.
Set New Goals
Try new things. Set an intention to do something new, such as visiting museums, attending talks, etc., for the next week or month. Map it out and invite a friend. Dr. Culler says both the planning process and socialization have brain benefits, too.
Meditate
Clearing your mind can be good for your brain as well.
“Set aside time daily to cool your brain, practice mindfulness or meditate,” says Dr. Culler. “Meditation is an excellent brain workout, and studies have found numerous benefits for the brain. If meditation is not a daily part of your routine, aim to add it in.”
She recommends starting with a few minutes of meditation a day and working up to 20 minutes or longer.
Can I reduce my increased risk of developing dementia by treating my hearing loss? Thankfully, the data appears to be trending towards a resounding “Yes!” Recent reports have found a significant positive impact of treating hearing loss on cognitive health.
Impact on cognitive function
In a recent study investigating the relationship of treating hearing loss and cognitive function, it was found that current hearing loss treatments can improve brain function in people with hearing loss. It is understood that hearing loss, if left untreated, can lead to emotional and social consequences, reduced job performance, and diminished quality of life. Recently, studies have even shown that untreated hearing loss can interfere with cognitive abilities because so much mental effort is diverted toward understanding speech (i.e. cognitive overload). The research was aimed at measuring core cognitive functions in subjects in their 50s and 60s beginning hearing loss treatment for the first time.
After only two weeks of treatment, cognitive testing began to reveal a significant increase in scores for recalling words in working memory and selective attention tests, and that the processing speed for which participants selected the correct response was significantly faster.
Impact on risk of developing dementia
Since 2011, multiple long-term studies have provided strong evidence that treating hearing loss may eliminate the increased risk of developing dementia. Dr. Lalwani at Columbia University noted that treating hearing loss may offer a simple, yet important, way to prevent or slow the development of dementia by keeping adults with hearing loss engaged in conversation and communication.
THURSDAY, MAY 22
Personalized Solutions: No one-size-fits-all here – only customized solutions that work for you.
Trusted Expertise: We are your go-to partners for hearing health, using the latest in technology and care.
Ongoing Support: Hearing needs can change, and we are with you every step of the way.
By Sharon Naylor
If you’re like most seniors, your physician has encouraged you to get plenty of exercise for your cardiovascular, muscular and emotional health. And if you’re like many seniors who take this advice to heart, you will likely explore different forms of exercise to see which interest you most.
“I thought about joining an aerobics class again, like I did so many years ago and haven’t done in ages,” says 74-yearold retired teacher Frieda Willis. “I looked at aerobics classes online but thought they would be too hard for me, too hard on my knees. Then a friend told me about the water aerobics class at her YMCA. I tried it, and I’m hooked on exercise again!”
The natural buoyancy of water protects the body from as much impact as would be experienced in on-land exercises, which is good for seniors whose mobility and pain levels are affected by such conditions as arthritis and neuropathy. The Arthritis Foundation, in fact, has been hosting aquatic classes at gyms and hospitals for decades. The organization reports that the warmth and buoyancy of the water beckons those with bone, joint and muscle issues to participate.
So many benefits
With regular participation, seniors can experience a reduction in pain; improved mobility; improved dexterity; increased metabolism; improved reaction time; better moods; and a sense of fun and social connection. Water fitness activities also help slow down age-related loss of muscle mass.
One very important additional benefit is increased stability, which can help prevent falls. Christine Stanley, National
Strength and Conditioning Association-certified personal trainer, marathoner, running coach, and Athletics and Fitness Association of America-certified instructor, says, “Preventing falls is one of the primary reasons why exercise is so important as you get older. Falls are the most common cause of hip fractures and brain injuries. Improving core strength and stability through balance, coordination and agility exercises is a key component in reducing chances of falling and allowing senior population to maintain health and independence.”
“Exercise in the water allows core stabilization and a sense of control while performing functional leg exercises such as knee lifts and extension. The water acts as a natural resistance resulting in no impact, protecting joints and easing arthritic pain,” says Stanley. “Exercises that focus on hip and leg strengthening and range of motion help (address)
Choose among many types of activities
There are many water-based movement activities and classes to consider — for all skill levels.
Swimming. Use your choice of breaststroke, backstroke or butterfly, perhaps alternating strokes to keep your daily swims varied. If your town or club pool has swimming lanes, check to see if the pool opens for lap swimming earlier than their public hours for more convenient exercise time.
Pool walking or jogging. Hold the edge and wear water shoes for extra stability and traction, and consider adding some hand weights.
Flutter kicking. Hold onto a kickboard and flutter kick your legs behind you.
Water-based tai chi and zumba. These exercises get an extra sense of flow while you’re in the water.
Wall-positioned pushups. Stand a distance from the wall and do pushups while standing for arm, back and core exercises. “I was very happy to say to my friends that I can do 25 pushups,” says Willis. “It made me feel confident and excited to get back in the pool the next day to keep going.”
Weightlifting. Using specialized weights for in-pool use, muscle mass can be improved, as can cardiovascular health and metabolism. Seniors can experience a boost in muscle strength due to the added resistance of the water, as compared to land-based weightlifting.
Leg lifts and squats. You may find yourself able to do more than you would on land.
Your safety in any fitness endeavor, particularly one that has you in water, is paramount. Be aware of your limits, never work out alone (it’s not as fun, anyway), and speak with your doctor about how your medications and overall fitness mesh with water aerobics.
While you are hopefully getting wiser as you get older, your immune system is weakening, increasing your risk for severe cases of vaccine-preventable illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, or shingles.
These diseases can lead to extended hospitalization or even death. While vaccination does not guarantee you will not get sick, getting vaccinated almost certainly will make your illness less severe, especially for individuals 65 and above. The fix is an easy one: get vaccinated!
Approximately 25,000 to 50,000 U.S. adults aged 65 and older die every year from complications caused by vaccine-preventable viral illnesses. This is more than the deaths attributed to breast cancer, traffic accidents and HIV/AIDS combined. Many of those who died were unvaccinated. During your annual checkup, be sure to speak with your doctor and make sure you are up to date on all your vaccinations.
During the 2023-2024 flu season, adults 65 and older accounted for more than 50 percent of flu-related hospitalizations and 72 percent of flu-related deaths. Meanwhile, adults 65 and older accounted for approximately twothirds of all COVID-19-associated hospitalizations from October 2023 to April 2024, while those 75 and older accounted for approximately 50 percent of COVID-19 deaths. These data are especially compelling in older adults with underlying conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes.
As for measles, which is increasing in prevalence across the country, there have been four cases in New York State so far this year—one in Suffolk County and three in New York City. As of Thursday, March 13, of the 373 confirmed measles cases reported in the United States, 86 (21 percent) involved individuals above age 20, and 11 of those cases required hospitalization. Approximately 2 of every 1,000 adults who contract measles die.
Aaron E. Glatt, MD, Chair of the Department of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau, says people born before 1957 are presumed to be immune and don’t require a MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) vaccination or testing to see if they are immune. However, if they know they are not immune because of work related testing or other reasons, vaccination might be appropriate. “People born during or after 1957 who are traveling to
a high-risk area who do not have evidence of immunity to measles (which can be determined by a blood test ordered by your physician to assess your antibody levels or vaccination status or by your immunization records) should get the vaccination,” Dr. Glatt added.
Infectious disease experts also recommend that people born after 1957 and vaccinated before 1968 consider getting a single additional vaccine dose, as the vaccine used from 1963 to 1967 has proven not to be as effective or long-lasting as the current MMR vaccine. When in doubt, ask your doctor! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that most people over age 65 get the following immunizations:
• Shingles vaccine: Shingles can be a very painful rash that can last for months. The CDC recommends the vaccine Shingrix for healthy adults aged 50 and older to prevent shingles.
• RSV vaccine: Respiratory syncytial virus infections are often mild but can be serious for older people, especially those above 75 and for those 60 and older with underlying
conditions such as heart or lung disease.
• Pneumococcal vaccine: Pneumococcal disease can include pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections. There are several vaccines available, and you should discuss with your doctor which one is most appropriate for you, based on any prior pneumococcal vaccinations and your age. The current recommendation is for all people over 50 to receive a pneumococcal vaccine, as well as those 18 years and older with significant underlying medical conditions.
• Annual flu vaccine: It remains the very best way to protect yourself and others from the flu.
• Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, or whooping cough): Everyone needs to get the Tdap vaccine at least once. After getting a Tdap vaccine, get a Td vaccine every 10 years to protect against tetanus and diphtheria.
• COVID-19 vaccine: How often you should receive this vaccine to reduce your risk and others from getting severe COVID-19 will also vary greatly based upon your underlying health, age, and when your most
recent COVID-19 illness was. Discuss this with your doctor.
• Hepatitis B vaccine: The CDC recommends this for all adults ages 19 to 59 who do not have natural immunity to hepatitis B, and for adults 60 and older who have risk factors for hepatitis B. If you are 60 and older and don’t have known risk factors, it’s okay to get the hepatitis B vaccine if you want it.
If you’re not up to date on your vaccinations, Dr. Glatt says to see your physician to set up a schedule to get them. If you haven’t received the annual flu or COVID-19 vaccination, you can get one at the Vaxmobile, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Education Health Screenings and Wellness outreach effort, which will be at the following senior centers:
April
• 4/24 – Nassau County Senior Services at St Anthonys Church, Oceanside, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 4/29 – Freeport Library, Freeport, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
May
• 5/1 – Long Beach Library, Long Beach, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 5/6 – Hispanic Brotherhood, Hempstead, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 5/13 – Nassau County Senior Birthday Party at the Old Barn Bethpage, Restoration Village, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 5/15 – Baldwin Library, Baldwin, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 5/20 – Freeport Library, Freeport, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 5/22 – Nassau County Senior Services at St Anthonys Church, Oceanside, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
For more information, call Mount Sinai South Nassau Community Education at (516) 377-5333 or send an email to vaxmobile@snch.org.
The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.
To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion
Local filmmaker debuts ‘Godless’
By Iris Wiener
Filmmaker Michael Ricigliano writes what he knows, and there is nothing he knows better than Long Island. His roots are certainly evident through his creative vision in his latest feature, “Godless,” which is now streaming on multiple platforms.
Starring Harry Lennix (“The Blacklist”) and Ana Ortiz (“Ugly Betty”), “Godless” explores the turbulent intersection of faith and politics. Ricigliano makes his directing debut with the film after having turned heads as a playwright (“A Queen for a Day”) and screenwriter (“The Brooklyn Banker”). He shot it in Huntington and Great Neck, only a stone’s throw away from where he grew up in Garden City.
“I think that for any writer, your own personal experiences craft how you see the world,” he says. “Growing up on Long Island, meeting the many people and remembering conversations with them, plus the stories my family would tell me about how they grew up. It all affects my work.”
Ricigliano is easily able to draw from Long Island’s “flavor,” as he is firmly entrenched in numerous communities.
Ricigliano’s father moved to Uniondale from Brooklyn in the early 1940s, and stayed until 1985; at age 15, his family moved to Garden City. Ricigliano went to private schools in Uniondale and Old Westbury, then going to law school at Hofstra where he played lacrosse. For the past 20 years, Ricigliano and his family have resided in Locust Valley. He has never left Long Island!
It wasn’t until Ricigliano was 40 that he began to write; a real estate lawyer who counsels with Spano Abstract Service Corp. (“an incredibly supportive company”) he began writing on a whim when he realized that he had an idea for a short film based on stories he heard from his family when he was very young in Brooklyn. Despite never having taken a film class, his screenplay for “The Brooklyn Banker” was picked up by Federico Castaluccio (of “The Sopranos” fame), and made into a feature length film starring Paul Sorvino.
“Everything I write is based off of things that have happened in my life and that I have experienced in my Catholic upbringing,” he says of how he began working on “Godless,” which centers on a devout Catholic governor (Ortiz) who is excommunicated after signing a progressive bill into law. “Godless” is about the crisis of faith that she endures when her religious beliefs contrast with her ambitions.
“Canon law is something I have always been fascinated with,” says Ricigliano. “From there it merged into the process of an excommunication. I wanted to explore the political fallout of her getting excommunicated when she wants to become president, as well as what’s happening with the bishop (Lennix) who has gone to the next step because the church is very politically driven as well.”
Ricigliano’s mother first suggested that her son shoot his directorial debut at Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington.
“We had the ability to use the chapel and the church, the hallways, the high ceilings, the offices which were from a different era, the beautiful grounds. It was all there,” he says. “It was beautiful and magnificent.”
The number of ways in which Ricigliano is creative are endless. He is also an accomplished pop artist who has shown his work at galleries (one of his pieces adorns a set in “Godless”) and a musician. Some of his original songs can be heard in the film.
“I have a mantra: Create every day,” he says thoughtfully. “I try and do something every day and I look forward to it, whether it’s art, writing or playing guitar. Doing this has become ingrained in me. It’s a passion.”
Ricigliano’s next film is based on the play “The Court of Oyer and Terminer,” and is also set to star Lennix. The story is about a retired judge from Nassau County who lives in the city and has dementia. He hopes to shoot scenes in Manhasset and other nearby areas.
“Long Island is one of the greatest places to live on the planet,” he says excitedly as he looks to the future. “The nature, the history, the architecture, some of the court houses. The resources that we have and the people are magnificent. We worked with the Nassau County and the Suffolk County Film Commissions for ‘Godless’ and they were so helpful.”
Ricigliano hopes that “Godless,” which can be streamed on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play, and Fandango, makes people want to talk.
“Any of the issues within can’t be one way or the other. People have certain beliefs that are instilled in them. In today’s society, a lot of times, people don’t want to listen. They just yell at each other. Hopefully this film will open up more of a dialogue. We’re all fallible. At the end of the day, the movie is about forgiveness and understanding. All I want is for people to walk out and say, ‘Okay. But I understand what the other person is saying.’”
Spring blooms with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. Before you know it, we’ll be back on the beach; meanwhile Jimmy Kenny and his band keep the vibe going with their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along. The Long Island based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/ backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione, have been celebrating the beach country sounds for over a decade, Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair.
Saturday, April 19, 8 p.m. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, takes listeners on a thrilling ride with Contemporary Jazz Masterpieces. Hear fascinating new works composed and orchestrated by composers and Big Band leaders of today, including Miho Hazama, Darcy James Argue, Helen Sung, Jihye Lee. The concert also feature newly commissioned works by George DeLancey, Leo Steinriede, and Steven Feifke — that reflect the depth and breadth of the Big Band tradition. With music direction by Marsalis and Steven Feifke, expect an evening of fresh takes and exploratory sounds from the acclaimed orchestra. Feel the vibe of thrilling works that ignite the senses with spontaneity, virtuosity and an unwavering passion.
Thursday, April 24, 7:30 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Game time Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.
•Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh
•Time: Ongoing Thursdays, noon–4 p.m.
•Contact: mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or (516) 785-2445
‘Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are in a Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City.
•Time: Also April 19, April 23-24, times vary
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
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) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up 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. On view through June 15.
•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
Planting Fields Little Learners series continues with an Earth Day celebration. Families will enjoy a heartwarming fun-filled experience, with a reading of “Gifts from the Garbage Truck” by Andrew Larsen. Explore the importance of reusing, reducing, and recycling. With an Earthinspired craft project. For ages 2-5. Registration required.
•Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay.
•Time: 10-11 a.m.
•Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210
Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Tickets are $49.50, $37.50, $35, $25.
Easter Plant Sale
Seaford Fire Department hosts its annual Easter Plant Sale featuring a wide variety of plants and flowers available for purchase while supplies last. Come early for the best selection. Rain or shine.
•Where: Seaford Fire Department Headquarters, corner of Waverly and Southard Avenues
•Time: Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
•Contact: seafordfd.com
Converse, collaborate and create at Nassau County Museum of Art. Kids and their adult partners can talk about and make art together. Enjoy reading and play in the Reading Room, and contribute to The Lobby Project, a collaborative art installation. Registration required.
•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.
•Time: noon-3 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
Shred Unwanted Documents
Russo Law Group
hosts an Earth Day Shred event to safely and securely dispose of sensitive documents. All shredding handled by Arrow Transfer & Storage. Attend Fraud Awareness workshops at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
•Where: 100 Quentin Roosevelt Blvd #102, Garden City; 250 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach.
• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
•Contact: vjrussolaw.com
•Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
•Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Parade
Nassau County Police Department 100th
Anniversary
Celebrate 100 years of the Nassau County Police Department with a parade and block party on Sunday, April 27 featuring music, antique cars, horses, and more. Rain date is Sunday, May 4.
•Where: Parade steps off at Wantagh Avenue and Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh; block party on Railroad Avenue
•Time: Parade starts at 2 p.m., block party, 3-8 p.m.
•Contact: pdcn.org
Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments.
•Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh
•Time: Ongoing Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15–10 p.m.
•Contact: (516)221-2370
Walk like MADD Long Island Join Walk Like MADD Long Island to raise funds for 24/7 victim services and support efforts to end impaired driving. In addition to the walk, the event will feature a Community & Engagement Fair with live music, art activities, and a special Victim Tribute Area.
•Where: Northwell at Jones Beach Theater, 895 Bay Pkwy, Wantagh
• Time: 10 a.m.
•Contact: Register at walklikemadd.org/longisland
MAY 8
William Desroches Fundraiser
Support the fundraiser honoring William Desroches. With entertainment, raffles and auctions Proceeds will support a new soccer and lacrosse field at Forest Lake Elementary. Admission is $75; includes food, drinks, and an open bar for adults 21+.
•Where: Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh
• Time: 6-10 p.m
• Contact: ticketbud.com
17
Kiwanis Club of Wantagh hosts its ninth annual Spring Festival. With featuring over 80 vendors, a food truck show, kids fun zone, and live music. Rain date is May 31.
•Where: Wantagh LIRR, between Beech Street and Oakland Avenue, Wantagh
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 644-5615
The Seaford Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Spring Fling on Saturday, May 3, with live music, food trucks, shopping, and a kids fun zone. Rain date is May 17.
•Where: Seaford LIRR, 1933 Jackson Ave., Seaford
• Time: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 644-5615 or visit lifairs.com
Having an event? Items on The Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
April 17, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY
CITATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK,
By the Grace of God Free and Independent
TO: Office of the New York State Attorney General Grassi & Co.
Jasper Surety
Kathleen Cloherty
James McLaughlin
Thomas Moran
Joyce Brown
Carolyn Sears
Linda Rugg
Michael Lucardi
Frank Troise
Robert Moran
And any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-atlaw and next-of-kin of the said Carol Moran, deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained
A petition having been duly filed by Public Administrator of Nassau County, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501.
YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on May 7, 2025 , at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Public Administrator of Nassau County, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Carol Moran, should not be judicially settled.
[X] Further relief sought (if any):
1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;
2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $ 12,730.64 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the
amount of $ 2,932.66 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);
3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 32,800.00 as and for legal fees and disbursements, of which $ 7,800.00 has been paid and $ 25,000.00 is unpaid;
4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $ 7,650.00, of which $ 1,650.00 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid;
5. Releasing and discharging the surety;
6. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Carol Moran, decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship;
7. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper.
Dated, Attested, and Sealed, March12, 2025 (Seal)
HON. HON.
MARGARET C. REILLY
Surrogate s/ Debra Keller Leimbach Chief Clerk
Signature of Attorney
Richard T. Kerins, Esq.
Print Name of Attorney Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC
Firm Name (516) 538-1111
Telephone 254 Nassau Boulevard South, Garden City South, New York 11530
Address rkerins@mmkolaw.com Email (optional)
NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or
petitioner’s attorney 152411 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
NASSAU COUNTY THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR NATIONSTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2007-B, Plaintiff against MAUREEN DUFFY, et al
Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 22, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 29, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 71 Sycamore Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714. Sec 46 Block 319 Lot 43 and 44. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $562,783.58 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 003443/2017. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633.
Mark Stephen Ricciardi, Esq., Referee File # 21-07695NY 152415
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. FNA DZ, LLC, Pltf. vs. GREGORIO D. DUMOLO, et al, Defts. Index #605267/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 25, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 51, Block 347, Lot 2. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The sale will take place “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.
JUDGE SCOTT H. SILLER, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY #102167 152393
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. NOYACK GATE LLC., Pltf. vs. NUTMEG L.L.C., et al, Defts. Index #602885/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 25, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 29, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. prem. k/a Section 46, Block K, Lot 738. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The sale will take place “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.
JANE SHRENKEL Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #102169 152397
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST AND FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY
LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-SD1, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, -againstALAN D. TRUE, 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 February 13, 2025, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST AND FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-SD1, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and ALAN D. TRUE, 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 May 5, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2175 SPRUCE STREET, WANTAGH, NY 11793; and the following tax map identification: 57-300-12 and 13.
limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 152610
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
PARCEL 1
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WANTAGH IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD. COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK PARCEL 2
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING 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.: 611359/2022. Oscar A. Prieto, 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
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTION AND PERSONAL REGISTRATION, LEVITTOWN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Annual Meeting of the School District, the vote on the School District budget and election of candidates for the School Board of Levittown Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, and the vote on the Public Library budget and election of a candidate for the Board of Trustees for the Levittown Public Library, will be held in the several election districts of the School District at the voting places designated below on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, to vote by ballot on voting machines on the proposition or propositions set forth below, as well as any other propositions which may properly come before the electorate, and to elect members of the Board of Education and to elect a member of the Library Board of Trustees.
Shall the following resolutions be adopted:
PROPOSITION NO. 1 SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET
BE IT RESOLVED, that the School District budget for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026, as presented to the Board of Education, in the amount of $274,120,957 approved and the necessary taxes be levied therefore on the taxable real property of the district.
PROPOSITION NO. 2
EXPENDITURE OF THE 2023 CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND UNASSIGNED FUND BALANCE FOR SCHOOL BUILDING IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Levittown Union Free School District is hereby authorized to expend the following remaining balances of the District Reserve Funds listed below: 2023 Capital Reserve in the amount of $18,000,000 In addition the Board of Education is hereby authorized to expend up to the sum of $4,000,000 in unassigned fund balance, so that the total expenditure in an amount not to exceed $22,000,000 is hereby approved for purposes of performing school building improvement projects, including District-wide safety system upgrades, District-wide electrical system upgrades; District-wide roof reconditioning and replacement; Districtwide HVAC upgrades and replacements; District-wide interior and exterior masonry restoration; Districtwide asbestos abatement projects; District-wide athletic field renovations and tennis court lighting; District-wide roadway reconstruction and site improvements; Districtwide bathroom reconstruction; Districtwide instructional space renovations, and for any similar projects as contained in the District’s five year Capital Facilities Plan adopted by the Board of Education on March 19, 2025. Expenditures funded from the Capital Reserves and unassigned fund balance will not increase the tax levy.
PROPOSITION NO. 3
SALE OF SEAMANS NECK SCHOOL
BUILDING
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Levittown Union Free School District (the “District”) is hereby authorized to sell the premises known as the Seaman’s Neck Road School, excluding the athletic fields which shall remain owned by the District, located at 1100 Crestline Place, Seaford, New York 11783, at a price of Seven Million Two Hundred Sixteen Thousand Dollars ($7,216,000) to Nassau BOCES, pursuant to the terms of a certain Contract of Sale dated as of February 25, 2025, which contract is available for review at the office of the District Clerk, 150 Abbey Lane,
Levittown, New York 11756, and on the District’s website: www.levittownschools. com.
PROPOSITION NO. 4
AUTHORIZING
TRANSPORTATION TO STUDENTS WITHIN THE CHILD SAFETY ZONE
Shall the Board of Education of the Levittown Union Free School District be authorized to provide transportation to those students attending District schools and residing in the Child Safety Zone established by the Board of Education, area bounded by the following: South of the Southern State Parkway, North of Jerusalem Avenue, West of Wantagh Avenue and East of Wantagh State Parkway; plus the area known as Lea Ann Terrace, and such transportation shall be provided by the District, starting in the 2025-2026 school year, for an estimated annual cost of $25,000.
PROPOSITION NO. 5 LIBRARY BUDGET RESOLVED, that the Public Library Budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 proposed by the Library Board of Trustees of the Levittown Public Library heretofore filed pursuant to law shall be approved and the necessary taxes be levied therefore on the taxable real property of the district.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education and for the office of member of the Library Board of Trustees must be filed with the District Clerk between the hours of 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM but between the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. on April 21, 2025. Forms of the petitions may be obtained from the District Clerk. The following vacancies are to be filled on the Board of Education: Two (2) members for the term of three (3) years, commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2028. A separate petition is required to nominate a candidate for member of the Board of Education. The two candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk, must be signed
by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, or 2% of the voters who voted in the 2024 election, whichever is greater, and shall state the residence of each person who signed, must state the name and residence of the candidate and the length of the term of office. This year all nominating petitions must include 44 signatures.
The following vacancies are to be filled on the Library Board of Trustees: One (1) member for the term of five (5) years, commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2030; one member for a term commending July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2028; and one member for a term commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026. A separate petition is required to nominate a candidate for member of the Library Board of Trustees. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be elected to the term which ends June 30, 2030. The candidate receiving the second highest number of votes will be elected to the term which ends June 30, 2028. The candidate receiving the third highest number of votes will be elected to the term which ends June 30, 2026. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk, must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, or 2% of the voters who voted in the 2024 election for members of the Library Board of Trustees, whichever is greater, and shall state the residence of each person who signed, must state the name and residence of the candidate and the length of the term of office. This year all nominating petitions must include 44 signatures.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a statement of estimated expenses for the 2025-2026 school year will be presented at a Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the Board Meeting Room of the Levittown Memorial Education Center and copies of such statement, as well as the statement of the amount of money required for the 2025-2026 fiscal year
of the Public Library, will be made available on the District’s website and at each schoolhouse and library in the District during the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM on each day other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday during the fourteen (14) calendar days immediately preceding the election together with the text of any resolution which will be presented to the voters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, personal registration of voters is required and only those persons whose names appear on the register of the said school district, or who are registered pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law, shall be entitled to vote at said meeting and election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that all qualified voters who have previously registered for any annual or special meeting or election and have voted at any annual or special election held or conducted at any time within four (4) calendar years prior to this year are not required to register with the Board of Registration for this meeting.
All other persons who wish to vote must register. A voter may register at the office of the District Clerk of the Levittown UFSD between the hours of 8:00 AM. and 1:00 PM on school days provided that such registration is effected no later than May 15, 2025.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that said register will be filed in the office of the District Clerk and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election, except Sunday, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, on Monday through Friday by appointment on Saturday ( May 17, 2025), in the office of the District Clerk and at each voting place on the day of the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that absentee ballots for those eligible pursuant to the provision of Section 2018a of the Education Law are available, and that applications for absentee ballots may
be applied for at the office of the District Clerk. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots have been issued will be available in the office of the Clerk on each of the five (5) calendar days prior to the day of election except Sunday, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on Monday through Friday and by appointment on Saturday (May 17, 2025), in the office of the District Clerk. Such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) calendar days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or by the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. No absentee voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 PM on the day of the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 2018-e of the Education Law, applications for early mail ballots may be obtained at the Office of the District Clerk of the School District, during all days in which the School District is in session. Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 21, 2025 and by May 13, 2025, if the early mail ballot is to be mailed to the voter.
If the early mail ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter at the Office of the District Clerk the completed application must be received by the District Clerk no later than May 20, 2025. No early mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the Office of the District Clerk of the School District no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025. A list of all persons to whom early ballots have been issued will be available in the Office of the District Clerk’s office during office hours on and after May 14, 2025 until May 19, 2025, except on Saturday May 17, 2025, by prearranged appointment. A challenge to an early voting ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an absentee ballot.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that during the
voting hours on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, in the various election districts, the Board of Registration will meet to receive registrations for subsequent elections. During the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM on voting days, the District Clerk shall be in her office at the Levittown Memorial Education Center.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law requires the District to attach to its proposed budget an Exemption Report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on the District’s website.
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Education Law §2018-d, Military Voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the District by submitting a Military Voter Registration Application to the District Clerk, no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. A copy of the Military Voter Registration Application is available both by contacting the District Clerk by email at vesposito@levittownsc hools.com and online at the District’s website located at <http://www.levittown schools.com/>. Military voters who are qualified voters of the District may submit an application for a military ballot. A Military Voter is entitled to designate a preference to receive a Military Voter Registration Application, Military
Ballot Application or Military Ballot by mail, facsimile or electronic mail. Such designation will remain in effect until revoked or changed by the voter. If no preference is designated, the District will transmit the Military Voter Registration Application, Military Ballot Application or Military Ballot by mail. Military Voter Ballot Application forms must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. Military Ballots will not be canvassed unless they are received by the District Clerk on or before 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025.
SCHOOL ELECTION
DISTRICTS:
The boundaries of the school election districts and the place of each election district for voting and registration shall be as follows:
ELECTION DISTRICT #1
- GARDINERS AVENUE
SCHOOL
Beginning at Wantagh Parkway and Chase Lane; east on Chase Lane to Center Lane, thence south to Prairie Lane; thence east to Gardiners Avenue; thence south to Slate Lane; then east and north to Swan Lane; then east and north to Grey Lane; continuing east to Wantagh Avenue; thence south on Wantagh Avenue to Jerusalem Avenue; thence west to Oakfield Avenue; continuing north to Old Jerusalem Road; thence east on Old Jerusalem Road to Wantagh Parkway Line; north along Line to the point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #2
- EAST BROADWAY
SCHOOL
Beginning at north side of Southern State Parkway and east side of Wantagh Avenue; north on Wantagh to Miller Place; thence east to Exit Lane; thence south to Elm Drive; thence west to Elbow Lane; thence southwest to End Lane; south to End Lane and Elm Drive East to Pope Street; thence east to District Line; thence south to Regent Lane; thence east to Red Maple Drive; thence northeast, and south to Regal Lane; east on Regal Lane and Cordwood Lane to Arlington Drive; thence southeast to Town Line; thence south to Southern State Parkway; west along Parkway to point of
beginning. Beginning at south side of Southern State Parkway and west side of Town Line; south on Town Line to Jerusalem Avenue; thence west to Wantagh Avenue; thence north to Southern State Parkway; thence east to point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #3 - LEVITTOWN MEMORIAL
EDUCATION CENTER
Beginning at east side of Wantagh Parkway and south side of Hempstead Turnpike; east on Hempstead Turnpike to Silver Lane; thence south to Forge Lane; thence east to Cotton Lane; thence southeasterly to Wantagh Avenue; then south to Grey Lane; thence west to Swan Lane; then southwesterly to Slate Lane; then south to Gardiners Avenue, thence north to Prairie Lane; thence west to Center Lane; thence north to Chase Lane; thence west to Wantagh Parkway Line; north along Line to point of beginning.
ELECTION DISTRICT #4 - DIVISION AVENUE HIGH SCHOOL
Beginning at north side of Hempstead Turnpike and west side of Jerusalem Avenue; west on Hempstead Turnpike to District Boundary Line at Wantagh State Parkway; thence northeast to northerly border of School District; east on Boundary Line (Flamingo Rd., Magpie Lane, Blacksmith Rd) to Jerusalem Avenue; thence south to point of beginning.
Dated: Levittown, New York March 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION LEVITTOWN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK 152588
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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION OF THE WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT WANTAGH, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Public Hearing of the qualified voters of the WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, Nassau County, Wantagh, New York will be held in the
Senior High School, Wantagh, New York, in said school district on May 8, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. prevailing time, for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:
1. To present to the voters a detailed statement (proposed budget) of the amount of money which will be required for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
2.To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machines at the Budget Vote and Election to be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
3.To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of a detailed statement in writing of the amount of money which will be required for the 2025/26 school year for school purposes (the proposed budget) will be made available, upon request, to any resident of the District between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, beginning May 1, 2025, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at the office of the Assistant Superintendent for Business, Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, at each school house in the District, at school district offices, on the District’s website at www.wantaghschools. org, and at the Wantagh Public Library.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that said Budget Vote and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, in the Three (3) Election Districts, described below, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machine upon the following items:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2025/26 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
2. Shall the Board of Education be authorized pursuant to Section 3651 of the Education Law to expend an amount not to exceed One Million Nine Hundred NinetyOne Thousand Dollars ($1,991,000) (including accrued interest) from the Capital Reserve Fund established by voters of the School District at the annual meeting held on May 15, 2018, and to expend an amount not to exceed One Hundred Nine Thousand Dollars ($109,000) (including accrued interest) from the Capital Reserve Fund established by voters of the School District at the annual meeting held on May 21, 2024 (“Reserve Funds”) for the following projects: Roof replacement at Wantagh Elementary School main building, ceiling replacements at the Wantagh Middle School and Wantagh High School, Wantagh High School auditorium lighting replacements and upgrades, and security camera and related network upgrades and replacements districtwide; all of the foregoing to include site improvements, furnishings, equipment, apparatus, machinery, demolition and other incidental work or improvements required in connection therewith, and to expend from the Reserve Funds therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto an amount not to exceed the total estimated cost of Two Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,100,000) (including accrued interest); such costs of the components of the capital improvements/projects may be reallocated among such components/projects as the Board of Education shall determine to be in the best interest of the District 3. To elect two (2) members of the Board of Education for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring on June 30, 2028. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report,
which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show:
(a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, not later than April 21, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. Vacancies on the Board of Education 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 thirty-seven (37) qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of twentyfive (25) qualified voters or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); 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 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 within the last four (4) calendar years, he or 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 or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Registration shall be conducted for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law through Thursday, May 15, 2025, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, on all regular days during which the office of the District Clerk is in operation, located in the Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such register, provided that at such time he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said District Clerk to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the register is prepared.
The Board of Registration will also meet for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law on May 6, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., prevailing time, in the Senior High School Lobby, and on Saturday, May 10, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 pm., at the Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, 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.
The last day to register shall be Thursday, May 15, 2025. The register so prepared pursuant to §2014 of the
Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on Thursday, May 15, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., prevailing time, on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 17, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m., and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Wantagh Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, by mail to 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, by email to mcguigane@wantaghs chools.org or fax sent to (516) 765-4154. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24,2025. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Wantagh Union Free School District, may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk in person, by mail to 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, by email to mcguigane@wantaghs chools.org, or fax sent to (516) 765-4154. In such request, the military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no
later than 5:00 p.m., on April 24, 2025. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a nonmilitary ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a military voter’s original military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 20, 2025 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. 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 Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, at each of the three (3) separate election districts to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the Budget Vote and Election to be held in 2026, and any special district meetings that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after May 20, 2025.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that absentee and early mail voting will be permitted in accordance with Sections 2018 a and 2018-e of the Education Law. All applications for absentee and early mail ballots may be applied for at the Office of the School District Clerk beginning Monday, April 21, 2025. Beginning Thursday, May 15, 2025 a list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued will be available during regular Office hours in the Office of the School District Clerk (between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time) on each of the five days prior to the day of the election except Sunday or holidays, and available on Saturday by appointment only.
An application for an absentee ballot, on a form to be provided by the School District Clerk, shall be made to the School District Clerk. Such application must be received at least seven (7) days before the election if the School District Clerk is to return the absentee ballot to the applicant by mail. If the applicant or their agent is to personally pick up the absentee ballot, the application must be received by the School District Clerk at least one (1) day before the election.
An application for an early mail ballot, on a form to be provided by the School District Clerk, shall be made to the School District Clerk. For any early mail ballot applications received at least seven (7) days prior to the election, the District Clerk shall mail an early mail ballot to each qualified voter who requested that such an early mail ballot be mailed to the address set forth on the submitted application no later than six (6) days before the election. If an applicant or their agent delivers an application for an early mail ballot after May 14, 2025 and not later than the day before the election, the District Clerk shall deliver the early mail ballot when the applicant and/or their agent appears in the District Clerk’s office.
No absentee or early mail voter’s ballot shall
be canvassed, unless it shall have been received in the Office of the School District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., Prevailing Time, on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the day of the election.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk of the Board of Education at the Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, on or before April 21, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, except that referenda or propositions required by law to be included in the notice of the annual meeting must be filed with the District Clerk on or before March 21, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least ninety-three (93) qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot.
SCHOOL ELECTION DISTRICTS AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that Election Districts have been established in the School District. The boundaries of the Election Districts, as adopted by resolution of the Board of Education, and the place in each election district for voting shall be as follows:
ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 1 - All voters who reside south of Sunrise Highway vote at the Mandalay Elementary
School, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793.
ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 2 - All voters who reside north of Sunrise Highway and East of Wantagh Parkway vote at the Wantagh Elementary School, 1765 Beech Street Wantagh, New York 11793.
ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 3 - All voters who reside north of Sunrise Highway and West of Wantagh Parkway, vote at the Forest Lake Elementary School, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793.
Dated: Wantagh, New York
March 20, 2025 By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Wantagh, New York Elaine McGuigan, District Clerk 152584
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTARIA Y ELECCIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE LA UNIÓN DE WANTAGH WANTAGH, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una Audiencia Pública de los votantes calificados del DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE WANTAGH UNION, Nassau County, Wantagh, Nueva York, en la Escuela Secundaria Senior, Wantagh, Nueva York, en dicho distrito escolar el 8 de mayo de 2025, a las 8:00 p.m. hora prevaleciente, para la transacción de negocios según lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, incluyendo los siguientes artículos:
1. Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (presupuesto propuesto) de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2025-26.
2. Discutir todos los puntos que a continuación se exponen para ser votados por las máquinas de votación en la Votación y Elección de Presupuesto que se llevará a cabo el martes 20 de mayo de 2025.
3. Para llevar a cabo cualquier otro asunto que pueda presentarse
adecuadamente ante la reunión de conformidad con la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York y las leyes que la modifiquen. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que una copia de una declaración detallada por escrito de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año escolar 2025/26 para fines escolares (el presupuesto propuesto) estará disponible, previa solicitud, para cualquier residente del Distrito entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora vigente, a partir del 1 de mayo de 2025, excepto sábados, domingos o feriados, en la oficina del Superintendente Adjunto de Negocios, Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, en cada casa escolar del Distrito, en las oficinas del distrito escolar, en el sitio web del Distrito en www.wantaghschools. org, y en la Biblioteca Pública de Wantagh. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que dicha Votación y Elección del Presupuesto se llevará a cabo el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las horas de 7:00 a.m. y 9:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en los Tres (3) Distritos Electorales, descritos a continuación, momento en el cual las urnas se abrirán para votar por máquina de votación en los siguientes elementos:
1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2025/26 y autorizar que la parte requerida del mismo se aumente mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito.
2. ¿Se autorizará a la Junta de Educación de conformidad con la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación a gastar una cantidad que no exceda un millón novecientos noventa y un mil dólares ($1,991,000) (incluidos los intereses acumulados) del Fondo de Reserva de Capital establecido por los votantes del Distrito Escolar en la reunión anual celebrada el 15 de mayo de 2018, y a gastar una cantidad que no exceda los ciento nueve mil dólares ($109,000) (incluidos los intereses acumulados) de la
Reserva de Capital Fondo establecido por los votantes del Distrito Escolar en la reunión anual celebrada el 21 de mayo de 2024 (“Fondos de Reserva”) para los siguientes proyectos: Reemplazo de techo en el edificio principal de la Escuela Primaria Wantagh, reemplazos de techo en la Escuela Secundaria Wantagh y la Escuela Secundaria Wantagh, reemplazos y mejoras de iluminación del auditorio de la Escuela Secundaria Wantagh, y actualizaciones y reemplazos de cámaras de seguridad y redes relacionadas en todo el distrito; todo lo anterior incluye mejoras en el sitio, mobiliario, equipo, aparato, maquinaria, demolición y otros trabajos incidentales o mejoras requeridas en relación con los mismos, y gastar de los Fondos de Reserva para los mismos, incluidos los costos preliminares y los costos incidentales a los mismos, una cantidad que no exceda el costo total estimado de dos millones cien mil dólares ($ 2,100,000) (incluidos los intereses acumulados); dichos costos de los componentes de las mejoras/proyectos de capital pueden ser reasignados entre dichos componentes/proyectos según el Consejo de Educación determine que es en el mejor interés del Distrito 3. Elegir a dos (2) miembros de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025 y expira el 30 de junio de 2028. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria, se requiere que el Distrito Escolar adjunte a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué parte del valor total de la tasación en el cuadro de liquidación final utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exenta de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada, identificada por la autoridad legal, y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo
de cada tipo de exención expresado como un monto en dólares del valor tasado o como un porcentaje del valor tasado total en el rollo; (b) el monto acumulado que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y c) el efecto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas. El informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web mantenido por el Distrito.
Y SE NOTIFICA
ADEMÁS POR LA PRESENTE, que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación se presentarán ante la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar en su oficina en el Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, a más tardar el 21 de abril de 2025, entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., tiempo prevaleciente. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran oficinas separadas y específicas; Los candidatos se postulan en general. Las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual se nomina al candidato; debe dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito; debe estar firmada por al menos treinta y siete (37) votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de veinticinco (25) votantes calificados o el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); debe indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y debe indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes ya sea de conformidad con la Sección 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 §2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial del distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, él o ella es elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar bajo el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, él o ella también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. El registro se llevará a cabo con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación hasta el jueves 15 de mayo de 2025, entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en todos los días regulares durante los cuales la oficina del Secretario del Distrito está en funcionamiento, ubicada en el Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre sea incluido en dicho registro, siempre que en ese momento se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicho Secretario de Distrito que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o en lo sucesivo en dicha elección para la cual se prepara el registro. La Junta de Registro también se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación el 6 de mayo de 2025, entre las 9:00 a.m. y la 1:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en el vestíbulo de la escuela secundaria superior, y el sábado 10 de mayo de 2025, entre las 9:00 a.m. y la 1:00 p.m., en el Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la elección antes mencionada, momento en el cual 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 demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho en ese momento o
posteriormente a votar en las elecciones para las que se ha preparado el registro. El último día para inscribirse será el jueves 15 de mayo de 2025. El registro así preparado de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, y estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del jueves 15 de mayo de 2025, entre las 9:00 a.m. y la 1:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en días laborables, y cada día anterior al día establecido para la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado 17 de mayo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 12:00 p.m., y en el (los) lugar (s) de votación el día de la votación.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union solicitando y devolviendo una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, por correo a 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, por correo electrónico a mcguigane@wantaghs chools.org o fax enviado al (516) 765-4154. La solicitud de la solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 24 de abril de 2025.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union, pueden solicitar una solicitud para una boleta militar del Secretario del Distrito en persona, por correo a 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, por correo electrónico a mcguigane@wantaghs chools.org, o por fax enviado al
(516) 765-4154. En dicha solicitud, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Un votante militar debe devolver la solicitud original de boleta militar por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. Para que a un votante militar se le emita una boleta militar, se debe recibir una solicitud de boleta militar válida en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., el 24 de abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de boletas militares recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de boleta no militar bajo la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de boleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la boleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que la boleta militar original de un votante militar debe ser devuelta por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. Las boletas militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 2 de mayo de 2025 mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 20 de mayo. 2025 y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo de la misma, con una fecha que se determina que no será posterior al día anterior a la elección. Y SE NOTIFICA ADICIONALMENTE, que de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, en cada uno de los tres (3) distritos electorales
separados para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la Votación y Elección del Presupuesto que se llevará a cabo en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial de distrito que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en 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 en lo sucesivo en la elección escolar para la cual se desea dicho Registro. o cualquier reunión especial de distrito que se celebre después del 20 de mayo de 2025. TENGA EN CUENTA que se permitirá el voto en ausencia y por correo anticipado de acuerdo con las Secciones 2018 a y 2018-e de la Ley de Educación. Todas las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia y por correo anticipado se pueden solicitar en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar a partir del lunes 21 de abril de 2025. A partir del jueves 15 de mayo de 2025, una lista de todas las personas a las que se les habrán emitido boletas de voto en ausencia y por correo anticipado estará disponible durante el horario regular de oficina en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente) en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores al día de la elección, excepto los domingos o días festivos. y disponible los sábados solo con cita previa. Una solicitud para una boleta de voto en ausencia, en un formulario que será proporcionado por el Secretario del Distrito Escolar, se hará al Secretario del Distrito Escolar. Dicha solicitud debe recibirse al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si el Secretario del Distrito Escolar debe devolver la boleta de voto en ausencia al solicitante por correo. Si el solicitante o su agente va a recoger personalmente la boleta de voto en ausencia, la solicitud
debe ser recibida por el Secretario del Distrito Escolar al menos un (1) día antes de la elección. Una solicitud para una boleta electoral anticipada por correo, en un formulario que será proporcionado por el Secretario del Distrito Escolar, se hará al Secretario del Distrito Escolar. Para cualquier solicitud de boleta anticipada por correo recibida al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, el Secretario del Distrito enviará una boleta por correo temprano a cada votante calificado que solicitó que dicha boleta por correo anticipada se envíe por correo a la dirección establecida en la solicitud presentada a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la elección. Si un solicitante o su agente entrega una solicitud para una boleta electoral anticipada por correo después del 14 de mayo de 2025 y a más tardar el día antes de la elección, el Secretario del Distrito entregará la boleta electoral anticipada por correo cuando el solicitante y/o su agente se presenten en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito. No se realizará el escrutinio de ninguna boleta de voto en ausencia o por correo anticipado, a menos que se haya recibido en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, el día de la elección.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que cualquier referéndum o proposición para enmendar el presupuesto, o de otra manera que se presente para votar en dicha elección, debe presentarse ante el Secretario de Distrito de la Junta de Educación en el Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, en o antes del 21 de abril de 2025, a las 4:00 p.m., tiempo prevaleciente, excepto que los referendos o proposiciones que la ley requiera que se incluyan en el aviso de la reunión anual deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en o antes
2 1 de marzo de 2025, a las 4:00 p.m.; debe
estar escrito a máquina o impreso en el idioma inglés; debe estar dirigido al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; debe estar firmado por al menos noventa y tres (93) votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de 25 o 5% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no considerará ninguna petición para presentar a los votantes cualquier proposición cuyo propósito no esté dentro de los poderes de los votantes para determinar, que sea ilegal o cualquier proposición que no incluya una asignación específica donde el gasto de dinero sea requerido por la proposición, o donde exista otra razón válida para excluir la proposición de la boleta.
DISTRITOS ELECTORALES ESCOLARES Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que se han establecido Distritos Electorales en el Distrito Escolar. Los límites de los Distritos Electorales, según lo adoptado por resolución de la Junta de Educación, y el lugar en cada distrito electoral para votar serán los siguientes:
DISTRITO ELECTORAL NO. 1 - Todos los votantes que residen al sur de Sunrise Highway votan en la Escuela Primaria Mandalay, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793.
DISTRITO ELECTORAL NO. 2 - Todos los votantes que residen al norte de Sunrise Highway y al este de Wantagh Parkway votan en la Escuela Primaria Wantagh, 1765 Beech Street, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793.
DISTRITO ELECTORAL NO. 3 - Todos los votantes que residen al norte de Sunrise Highway y al oeste de Wantagh Parkway, votan en la Escuela Primaria Forest Lake, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793.
Fecha: Wantagh, Nueva York
20 de marzo de 2025 Por orden de la JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DE LA
DISTRITO ESCOLAR
LIBRE DE WANTAGH UNION
Wantagh, Nueva York
Elaine McGuigan, Secretaria de Distrito 152586
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Nassau, U.S. Bank Trust
National Association, as Trustee of the LBCabana Series IV Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Michael K. Carbone, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 8, 2024, 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 May 14, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 3388 Maplewood Drive South a/k/a 3388 Maplewood Drive, Wantagh, NY 11793. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 57, Block 219 and Lot 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $820,538.42 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614238/2022.
Tara Mayerhofer, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 221849-1 152824
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
LOCAL LAW NO.
19-2025
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,
both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held March 25, 2025 by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 19-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 19-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 152933
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 04/23/2025 at 9:30
A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.
180/25. WANTAGHFelix & Lisa Hanemann, Renewal of grant to maintain 5’ high fence larger than pool installation area & in front yard setback on Oakfield Ave., W/s Chelsea Rd., 240’ S/o Ardsley Rd. running thru to Oakfield Ave., a/k/a 1298 Chelsea Rd. 163/25. - 164/25. WANTAGH - Raymond Brodeur, Jr. & Louise Brodeur,
Mother/Daughter Res. (2nd Kitchen); Variance, lot area occupied, construct 2nd story addition & porch both attached to dwelling., N/s Anderson St., 100’ E/o Odell St., a/k/a 2877 Anderson St. N.C.P.C. Local determination. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Wantagh within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals Hempstead, to include “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations. Dated: March 25, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Hempstead, New York OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 152938
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-OPT1, -againstMICHELLE KAPLAN, 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 27, 2025, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-OPT1 is the Plaintiff and MICHELLE KAPLAN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the CALENDAR CONTROL PART (CCP) COURTROOM OF THE SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 20, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1021 BARRIE AVENUE, WANTAGH, NY 11793; and the following tax map identification: 51-281-25. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WANTAGH (UNINCORPORATED) TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 604783/2017. 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.
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
What began as a routine championship game quickly turned into a life-saving emergency, and Wantagh Athletic Director Jennifer Keane didn’t hesitate to act.
Keane was working as the Assistant Coordinator for Boys Basketball for Section VIII during the Nassau County finals between West Hempstead and Floral Park at Farmingdale State College in March when referee Joe Gaskin suddenly collapsed near the West Hempstead bench.
“I thought he may have tripped,” Keane said. “But then I saw he was struggling to breathe, and I could see he was starting to turn not the right color, to say the least.”
Keane quickly directed the West Hempstead team away from the area, called for help, and rushed to Gaskin’s side.
“I yelled for the AED,” she said. “All of a sudden, there were nurses and a doctor there.”
Keane, a certified athletic trainer, received the automated external defibrillator and worked alongside the medical team, who began chest compressions. A pulse was detected at first, then lost.
“They began CPR and we administered the AED,” she said. “I just kept talking to him, calling his name.”
Keane stayed by Gaskin’s side, reassuring him and helping to calm him as he regained consciousness.
“He was disoriented and confused,” she said. “I told him, ‘Joe, we got you. You’re gonna be okay.’”
Keane has known Gaskin for two decades and considers him a friend. Her presence appeared to comfort him as he was taken from the gym by emergency personnel.
“He was awake and alert when he left,” Keane said. “I couldn’t have asked
Wantagh Athletic Director Jennifer Keane sprang into action to help save a referee’s life after he collapsed during the Nassau County boys basketball finals in March.
for a better outcome.”
Her actions earned praise from colleagues and school officials alike. Wantagh Superintendent John McNamara, in a post on the district’s website, said he wasn’t surprised Keane responded so quickly in such a critical moment.
“Her quick thinking and ongoing dedication to her field leaves her prepared for situations just like this,” he said in the post. “She is a tremendous asset to our school community and the greater Nassau Section VIII athletics community.”
Keane said she’s grateful things turned out well, adding that everyone who helped was in the right place at the right time.
“Joe’s alive, and that’s what’s most important,” she said. “We all worked together as a team to get that outcome, and I take that outcome any day.”
State Senator Steve Rhoads attended the Wantagh Fire Department Installation Ceremony on March 1, joined by Councilman Chris Schneider, Councilman Dennis Dunne, Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, Nassau Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Legislator John Ferretti, and Legislator Michael Giangregorio. Rhoads congratulated Chief Mathewson and all the incoming officers. The ceremony also honored members celebrating milestone anniversaries, including those marking 50 years of service. Rhoads expressed gratitude to the entire department for their dedication, bravery and commitment to keeping the community safe.
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Q. We’re planning to replace our old windows, and are doing research online to make sure we make the right decision. I saw that there’s an option for “triple pane” windows instead of double panes. It appears to be much more money, but the writer of one article says it’s well worth it. Are you familiar with triple panes, do we need permits to change our windows and is it worth the expense? We’ve lived in our current home for five years and plan to be here for the rest of our lives, hopefully a long time, while we raise our family. What do you think?
A. I could simply say that you get what you pay for, but I’m certain you need more of an explanation, since you’ve taken the time to investigate and educate yourself. In your investigation, I’m sure you saw engineering data, lots of comparative numbers and U-values, the rating acronym for glass unit values. The lower the U-value, the better the insulating value of the glass.
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Because the majority of heat or cool transmission or loss of energy is through the windows, while the walls, floor and roof are more insulated, it’s most important to do something to prevent losing all that energy you’re paying to create. Whether it’s your air conditioning or your heat, the outside of your house, referred to simply as the “envelope,” is of critical importance to insulate, especially with ever-rising energy prices. While most building departments don’t require a permit for changing out the windows “in kind,” meaning in the same size and location, some will require a permit for any little thing, like sanding your floors or adding closets, and I’m not kidding, so it’s best to check their rules online, or call your local building department directly.
Another thing to be aware of is that changing windows can trigger fire safety escape rules, referred to as egress windows, and most up-anddown, or double-hung colonial windows don’t meet the requirement if you don’t have at least one window in every habitable room with a size of 5.7 square feet. The window must have a clear escape opening of 20 inches in width and a minimum height of clear opening of 24 inches. Remember that a large fire rescuer must be able to save you.
Triple pane is a great value, because you’re always losing costly energy, so the return on investment, especially if this is your long-term home, makes it well worth it. Windows lose the most energy at the edges, so the type of gasket joining the windows to the frame is critical. The most effective frames have insulation blocking, not just a thermal break in the frame. A thermal break is usually a thin gasket between the outside and inside frames. Adding insulation, instead of leaving open air spaces in the frame, saves more energy, so it’s important to look for.
© 2025 Monte Leeper
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The Major League Baseball season is well underway. It’s been three weeks since the first pitch was thrown amid all the festivities of Opening Day. As a Brooklyn Dodgers fan since my youth, until they were hijacked from us to Los Angeles, and as a Mets fan since their creation in 1962, baseball has always been a major part of my life.
Love of the game was imparted to me by my father, and it’s something I share with my son and grandson. Whether it’s watching a Mets, Yankees or Long Island Ducks game or going to a local Little League game in Wantagh or Seaford, baseball definitely transcends generations.
What made this year’s Mets opening day more meaningful to me was the tribute to Mets legend Ed Kranepool, who died last year. To honor him, Mets players will wear a patch on their uniform sleeve emblazoned with his number 7 all season.
Kranepool was more than a guy who happened to play for the Mets. In so
many ways, he personified what New York baseball was all about. He was the real Mr. Met. Born and raised in the Bronx, he was signed by the Mets when he graduated from high school in 1962, and at age 17 actually played for them in their first season.
iKranepool went on to play 18 seasons, appearing in more games than anyone in Mets history. His career included the peaks and valleys of Mets history. In the team’s first seven years, they didn’t have one winning season. Their horrific 1962 campaign, when they set the major league record for most losses, prompted Jimmy Breslin’s famous book “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?”
n so many ways, he personified what New York baseball was all about.
But then, in 1969, the “Miracle Mets” shocked the baseball world by winning the World Series. Kranepool, who had suffered and persevered through the dark days, was not only playing on a championship team, but smashed a key home run off the Baltimore Orioles in Game 3 of the Series. And in 1973 he was the team captain when the Mets won the National league championship and, in the World Series, took the mighty Oakland A’s to seven games. Throughout his career, Kranepool
remained a New Yorker, living in Nassau and Suffolk counties and opening a celebrated restaurant, the Dugout, in Amityville. He was also a fixture at countless Little League, charity and community events all over Long Island, and hosted batting and fielding clinics for kids.
Through the rest of his life after he retired from baseball, Kranepool suffered from diabetes and kidney disease, which progressively worsened, necessitating a toe amputation. Never once, though, did I hear him complain or bemoan his fate. After several false starts, he underwent a successful kidney transplant in 2019, the 50th anniversary of the Mets’ miracle season.
Though I was a fan of his from day one, I got to know Kranepool about 10 years ago. He was always a great guy to be with, whether at sports events or at lunch with friends. I particularly looked forward to and always enjoyed lunches with Ed, his Mets teammate Art Shamsky and former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Fred Cambria.
It was a terrific experience just to sit and listen to their stories. What struck me the most was that none of them talk-
ed about their own heroics. It was always the other guy. So very different from so many of today’s ego-driven athletes. And I’ll always remember that Kranepool was one of the very first to call me after I had successfully stomach cancer surgery two years ago.
He died last September, from cardiac arrest apparently brought on by the years of diabetes and kidney disease that preceded the kidney transplant. His death was mourned by generations of New York baseball fans.
I focus on Kranepool here because he personified, for me, what baseball in particular and sports in general should be all about, and how they can be lessons for life. Give it your best shot in good times and bad. Don’t panic or complain when life takes a bad turn, or be arrogant when things break your way and you’re on top of the heap.
I think those lessons are especially relevant today, when too many parents put too much pressure on kids to win, forgetting the admonition that it’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game. If you play hard and give it your best shot, you’ll be a winner in life, no matter what the scoreboard says.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Words, words and more words. Everything we do every day is connected to the use of words and their meaning. Shakespeare’s Hamlet spends a lot of time complaining about words. In “My Fair Lady,” Eliza Doolittle expresses her frustration with excess talking and her desire for action.
I relate the use of words to the political arena, where I spent a great deal of my life. In our history books, public officials gain notoriety by using memorable words.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt soothed a fearful nation with promises that America would go to war and win it. Great Britain’s prime minister, Winston Churchill, lacking enough troops and ammunition, uplifted his nation with his brilliant use of words. If I asked you to remember some of the greatest words from President Ronald Reagan, you might say, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.” President
Bill Clinton was believable when he told the voters that he felt their pain. President Barack Obama was elected on the promise of change.
President Trump has used the word “tariff” with enormous frequency, but after major drops in the markets, even he may temporarily realize that the word is toxic.
TThis month’s economic crisis is a good example of how politicians fail to talk to the average consumer in simple terms. When the stock market takes a dramatic plunge, stockholders and pensioners get nervous about their long-term economic fate. Over the past few weeks, there wasn’t one person who consistently crafted a message that could soothe the millions of people who were on edge.
but he may not be the right person to talk to the American public, because he is known to change his mind often, and has already said so.
Most people don’t understand how pure partisan politics emerges when there are complex fiscal headaches and multiple talking heads.
he Wall Street crisis may be on hold, but does the White House have a plan?
An example of the confusion is the back-and-forth between Elon Musk and Peter Navarro, the president’s voice on tariffs. Recently Musk referred to Navarro as being “dumber than a sack of bricks.” Navarro referred to Musk as a “car assembler.” If these two people are supposed to be the economic face of the administration, which one should the public trust?
To add to the boiling pot, there’s Vice President J.D. Vance, who has found ways to throw dynamite into a Washington crowd. While his boss is trying to find a working strategy against Chinese tariffs, Vance, who comes from so-called hillbilly country, said, “We borrow money from Chinese peasants to buy the things those Chinese peasants manufacture.” China is our Number 2 lender. With all these crazy intra-party fights going on, one would think the Democrats would be delighting in the bloodbath. Instead, they seem to be suffering from some kind of vocal paralysis, and are unable to find a few key players to articulate the case that the MAGA party is floundering. The United States is currently in a state of total confusion, thanks to the confusing words coming from the Republicans and the silence of the Democratic lambs.
The Wall Street crisis may be on hold, but there are no assurances that the White House has a real long-term plan. One of the underlying problems right now is that there are no assurances that anyone will emerge who will be a credible voice, able to keep the nation calm. The president has promised to negotiate with multiple nations on trade issues,
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is widely respected on Wall Street, but at the height of last week’s turmoil in the markets he was telling us that “things are going to be just fine.”
This should be alarming to all Americans, because it appears there’s no one person who is capable of uttering the words that investors need to keep their collective blood pressure under control.
For now, we’ll have to hope that the country doesn’t free-fall into a recession. We could use a few words from somebody out there who’s never heard of Pinocchio.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
Established
april 22 might not jump out on your calendar like a holiday or a long weekend, but maybe it should. On Earth Day, which has been around for over 50 years, we are urged us to pay attention to the natural world — the land we walk around on, the air we breathe, the oceans that surround us and the future we’re shaping.
And let’s be honest: The future of our environment is looking a little shaky right now.
Extreme weather, rising sea levels, shrinking green spaces — even here in our own communities, we’re feeling the effects. Unseasonal heat waves, water restrictions, and poor air quality brought on by summer wildfires aren’t some abstract global issue. They’re right here at home.
Long Island has at times been a case study of why Earth Day is important.
After Hurricane Sandy, many residents whose homes were flooded had to rebuild, and they aimed to mitigate future damage by raising their homes and, where possible, strengthening bulkheading. Some built seawalls, and in some cases municipalities rebuilt roadways to reduce the impact of flooding.
To the Editor:
Despite the evidence that the earth’s climates are changing, however, Earth Day too often comes and goes without much more than a passing mention. That needs to change, because the day isn’t just about planting trees or switching off the lights for an hour. It’s about recognizing the power of collective local action — and that starts with us.
That’s why this Earth Day, we encourage everyone in our communities to show up and get involved. There are countless ways to make a difference, and many of them are happening right in your backyard.
There is an event focused on recycling in Long Beach on April 26, and a celebration of tree planting in Amityville that same day. And there will be a number of beach cleanups, including one in Atlantic Beach on April 27. Last weekend in Lakeview, more than 50 people planted flowers at the train station and collected litter in the business district.
Join a community cleanup at a park or along a river trail. Volunteer with a local conservation group. Support farmers markets and businesses that use sustainable practices. Start a compost bin. Cut back on single-use plastics. Attend a
town council meeting and ask about green initiatives. Plant something — even if it’s just one flower or herb on your windowsill.
The point isn’t to do it all. It’s to do something.
And when a bunch of people do something together, momentum builds. The ripple effect is real. Small acts pile up into cultural shifts. And when those shifts start to take root in towns like ours, they grow into the kind of broad environmental awareness that leads to lasting policy, cleaner spaces and stronger communities.
Let’s move past the idea that one person can’t make a difference. You can. You do. And when you team up with a few friends, a group, or a neighborhood? That’s how change begins.
So don’t let Earth Day pass by like just another date on the calendar. Take a moment to step outside and look around. And then, do one thing for the Earth. Just one.
Because the more we treat this planet like it matters, the more likely we can preserve everything about it that we know and love. Next Tuesday, let’s do more than acknowledge Earth Day. Let’s take it personally.
In her letter in last week’s issue, “Why so much opposition to the president?” Pat King asked a question that demands a response. “Can judges overrule the president of the United States?”
The answer, of course, is not only yes, but it’s their responsibility to do so when the president goes beyond the scope of the law. The day judges can no longer do that, or choose not to, is the day democracy ends. Hundreds of our judges are now being threatened with harm to themselves and their families for upholding their oaths to defend the constitutional requirement to check presidential and legislative power.
What follows the rule of law is the rule of predation and fear, and that’s why there is so much opposition to this would-be tyrant.
BrIAN KELLY Rockville Centre
To the Editor:
Former U.S. rep. Anthony D’Esposito seems hellbent on bringing the Town of Hempstead’s hiring practices to Washington, whether it’s in Congress or as inspector general in the Department of Labor. Hemp-
stead is notorious for wasting tax dollars on high-salaried political appointments. So of course, former Councilman D’Esposito thought nothing of hiring his mistress and his fiancée’s daughter to work for him in Congress, which, unlike the town, has actual labor laws against such practices.
Given the qualifications of all of President Trump’s appointees, however,
appointing someone who openly violated labor laws to the position of inspector general overseeing the Labor Department shouldn’t surprise anyone. And there is no expectation that D’Esposito will investigate waste and abuse in the department. Not surprisingly, it didn’t take long for D’Esposito to confirm his reputation for labor law abuse. He approved
spring is here, which also means it’s school budget time. School spending plans will be decided on May 20. Now is the time for everyone to take part in what is one of the most local ways to exercise civic responsibility. Not only is a school budget vote as local as it gets, but its impact is also important for everyone in the community.
Did you know that district administrators begin the following year’s budget process at the start of the school year? In October we begin to build our budgets, anticipating what the future may hold. What will enrollment look like? What will the economy look like? What will state aid revenue be? What do families want for their students? How is our infrastructure holding up? These are just a handful of the many questions we ask as we work to ensure our students’ future success while remaining fiscally responsible to the community.
The largest portion of any school budget is directly related to student
instruction. Seventy to 80 percent of the budget represents the program component, or the salaries and benefits for teachers and staff that serve students each day. School districts should provide a competitive wage to all employees so they can afford to live in the local communities near where they work. This is essential for recruiting and retaining the best employees for our children so that students can succeed now and into the future.
FRoughly 10 percent of the budget is the administrative component, for the general operation and management of the school district. The remaining 10 to 15 percent is the capital component, for transportation and facilities costs.
ings, floors, lighting, ADA compliance and masonry maintenance, to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment.
Lastly, the spending plan will inform us about what is new and innovative. New playgrounds, outdoor learning spaces, classroom redesign, and the latest technological improvements may all be part of the budget.
ind out what’s in your district’s spending plan and be an informed voter.
Did you know that public school district budgets include funding for private and charter schools? Students whose families choose to send them to private schools have a personal stake in the publicschool budget process. The costs of transportation, textbooks and nursing services are all covered by publicschool budgets.
ership affordable in New York. School districts must aim to craft their budgets as closely as possible to what they anticipate their expenditures will be. While employee raises, instructional enhancements and capital projects are important, so is balancing affordability for taxpayers. The tax levy is an important indicator of a balanced and fiscally responsible spending plan that keeps a district moving forward without unnecessarily burdening taxpayers.
Families with school-age children have the most direct stake in the school budget process. The spending plan will outline what class sizes are projected to be. It will indicate what services, and how many, will be available in schools — special education, reading and math, multilingual learner, and mental health support. Sports, music, art, library, clubs, assemblies, and field trips are all funded in the budget, as are necessary capital improvements — new roofs, ceil-
giving the deputy secretary of labor, the man tasked with cutting federal funds to local libraries and museums, 24-hour security detail.
Despite the White House’s claims to the contrary, government spending since Trump’s inauguration is $154 billion more than during the same period last year. Between Trump’s golf days, which have cost taxpayers roughly $30 million since January, and D’Esposito approving unwarranted $2 million security details, the waste and abuse committed by the Trump administration, while taking a chainsaw to agencies that provide critical services, is unconscionable.
This cavalier attitude that our tax dollars are theirs for the taking must stop in Washington, and in Nassau County.
CLAuDIA BORECkY President, Bellmore Merrick Democratic Club
To the Editor:
The big things in the Trump administration are so appalling that it’s hard to wrap your mind around them. The little things sometimes fall through the cracks. For example, a friend noted the
frequency of the alliterative “trust in Trump” phrase the White House press secretary keeps slipping into press conferences.
Or the fact that the president of the united States called his own people “yippy” for gasping in horror as their savings plummeted — not to mention watching him manipulate the stock market like a toy.
But I heard something on the news that I found so chilling that I can’t stop thinking about it: In response to a request for evidence for deporting a u.S. resident, Secretary of State Marco Rubio responded in a memo that he can deport anyone he wants. A terrifying message, yes, but I can’t stop thinking about responding with a memo to a judicial request, dismissing not only the request, but the entire judicial system and branch of government. Just waving them away like someone soliciting you to buy something cheap and tawdry. The disdain is breathtaking.
A confluence of events — Trump’s inexplicable popularity and infallibility in the eyes of a great deal of the country; the Republican majority in both the Senate and the House — have allowed Project 2025 not just to come to fruition, but to flourish. We must do something other than watch in horror from the sidelines as our entire system of government is dismantled before our eyes.
In our area, property values are closely tied to the performance of neighborhood schools. People choose to buy homes in specific areas because of the reputation of the school district. Whether you’re invested in your home or plan to buy or sell, taking part in, and understanding, the school budget process should be at the top of your list.
Residents should know how much a district is asking to raise its tax levy. The state tax cap helps keep home own-
Over the next month, school districts across the state will be presenting their 2025-26 budgets to their communities. Whether you’re a family with a child in school or a homeowner, now is the time to find out what’s is in the budget, so you make an informed decision in May. Review the budget information page on your district website. Attend a budget hearing in May, and read the budget newsletter that is sent home to district residents. If you have a question, reach out to the district business official. Most important, ensure that your voice is heard by participating in the budget vote and trustee elections on May 20. Your active engagement in this important process will help shape your community next year and for years to come.
Judith A. LaRocca, Ed.D., is superintendent of Valley Stream Union Free School District 13.
Our Founding Fathers may have been imperfect, but they created a brilliant system of government with three equal branches, which both support and check each other, and consequently give the people the power.
If power is consolidated in the execu-
tive branch, we will witness the death of democracy. We can’t let the devil — speaking literally and figuratively — win here.