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Vol. 73 No. 35

Fire destroys waterfront eatery

A new chapter for 22 teachers

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Page 11 AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 3, 2025

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State grant aids rebuilding goal for local legion operations, hosting graduations, communions, confirmations, retirement parties and American Legion Post 1711, other celebrations throughout located on North Jerusalem the year. Those rentals generRoad in Levittown, has been ate the majority of the revenue awarded more than $74,000 in that funds programs for veterstate funding to repair its ans and the wider community. parking lot and drainage sysAmong its initiatives, Post tem — a project that has been 1711 donates to food banks called essential to keeping the such as Long Island Cares, post operating and delivers supplies to accessible. ve t e r a n s a t t h e For years, the lot N o r t h p o r t VA has suffered from nursing home, and uneven pavement, participates in pooling water, and Wr e a t h s A c r o s s damage caused by America at sewer pipe repairs. Pinelawn National Underground wirCemetery. Legion ing that lights sigmembers also CHRISToPHER nage at the place flags on vetentrance has also DRUMMoND erans’ graves each sustained damage, Commander, Memorial Day and the post’s leaders American Legion are working to resaid. charter a Cub Post 1711 The total $74,250 Scout pack. state g rant will In addition, the allow the American Legion to post regularly opens its doors resurface and re-pitch the lot, to other nonprofit and commuupgrade the drainage system, nity organizations, providing and ensure the grounds are space for local groups to meet safe for members, visitors and and host events. guests. Drummond said the state P o s t 1 7 1 1 C o m m a n d e r grant ensures those activities Christopher Drummond said can continue, and added that a the project is critical because safe, functional lot is not only the post depends heavily on Continued on page 13 renting out its hall to sustain

By DARSH MIRCHANDANI

Intern

Stu Goldman/Herald photos

Foam and fun at library party The Wantagh Public Library’s Summer Reading Party, on Aug. 15, featured outdoor family activities to mark the end of summer reading. Town Councilman Chris Schneider, back left above, and State Sen. Steve Rhoads, to his left, stopped by to support the event. Story, more photos, Page 3.

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Concerned about impact of Medicaid cuts By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

As they discussed what are considered to be the harmful impacts of Medicaid cuts included in the Republican tax bill signed into law last month, U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen and Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds toured THRIVE Nassau in Westbury on Aug. 18. Reynolds is CEO of the Family and Children’s Association Long Island, a nonprofit that offers assistance to Long Island’s most vulnerable residents, with help in areas such as substance abuse, youth services and mental health. “We really wanted to make sure that people know about the really devastating impact the big, not beautiful, bill is going to have on our community — not just those in need, but all across our community, the threat to health insurance,” said Gillen, who also met with THRIVE’s staff and clients. “So many people, 1.5 million New Yorkers, are going to lose their health insurance.” THRIVE Nassau, created in 2019 by the Family and Children’s Association, provides a safe and supportive environment for patients’ recovery from addictions such as alcohol, drugs and gambling. THRIVE, which stands for transformation, healing, recovery, inspiration, validation and empower ment, offers interactive educational programs, peer-based support and more.

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Courtesy Congresswoman Laura Gillen’s office

Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, CEO of the Family and Children’s Association Long Island, and U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen discussed the impact of Medicaid cuts on Long Islanders. Concerns have risen as programs like it are now at risk of losing their funding. THRIVE is state-funded will not be immediately impacted, but others potentially will. At a time when similar programs began to see hope for the future, Reynolds said it was taken away by political changes in Washington. “We are heartened by the Long Island delegation’s commitment to fight against these potential cuts to make sure that the

voices of people who were impacted by substance use disorder are amplified,” Reynolds said, “and that the potential consequences associated with this are well known, and we’re going to continue to do that as well.” Gillen said she was fighting to ensure that Long Islanders who need Medicaid will retain their coverage, and with it their necessary treatments. A $7 million clinic project being developed for the Westbury community

by the Family and Children’s Association would have provided an integrated clinic with support for substance use, mental health care and some primary care as well. But the future of Medicaid coverage and federal grants for next year and 2027 is currently unclear, so the project was canceled. THRIVE is far from the only program in Nassau County concer ned about the future not only for their prog rams, but their patients as well. Among the others is Confide Counseling Center, in Rockville Centre, which offers a substance abuse outpatient program staffed with addiction specialists, social workers and more. “We hope it’s not to the point where benefits are removed from patients to access the services provided,” Confide told the Herald. The concer ns among nonprofits focus not only on coverage for their patients, but potential cuts to their grant funding. Without that funding, programs like THRIVE wouldn’t be able to treat patients regardless of the status of their health insurance coverage. Some programs and services will be able to continue operating as planned. Integrity Treatment Partners, in Baldwin, is not at risk of losing funding, and there is currently no threat to its patients’ coverage for drug and alcohol treatment, according to partner Josh Goldfeder.

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Wantagh library wraps up summer reading

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

The Wantagh Public Library hosted its annual Summer Reading Party on Aug. 15 to celebrate the end of its summer reading program. Families enjoyed a bubble dance party provided by Foam at Your Home, while Roxy’s Ice Cream Truck served up treats. Local officials, including State Sen. Steve Rhoads and Town of Hempstead Councilman Chris Schneider, joined the outdoor festivities. The library is now preparing for its Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, which will feature Steppin Out Ponies petting zoo and the Pies on Wheels pizza truck. For more information, visit WantaghLibrary. org. — Charles Shaw

Stu Goldman/Herald photos

Book lovers lined up for a delicious treat during Wantagh Public Library’s Summer Reading Party on Aug. 15.

Lisa DeMille and raffle winner Madison DeMille, 6, enjoying the Summer Reading Party.

Laura Price with her son, seven-yearold Raymond Price.

Attending the annual Summer Reading Party were local officials. Library Director Shannon Marchese, left, with State Sen. Steve Rhoads, Town Councilman Chris Schneider, and Rhoads’ intern Bobby Silverstein. Elianna Bragg, left, 7, with Corinne Bragg, Isla Bragg, 4, and Jace Bragg, 5, ready to cool off in some foam.

Children enjoyed a bubble dance party provided by Foam at Your Home during the summer reading event.

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A power of attorney allows someone you choose as “agent” to handle your legal and financial affairs, most often if you become disabled. However, not all powers of attorney are created equal. The standard form, used by many attorneys, is what we term “over the counter medicine”. Instead, we choose to use what we call the “prescription strength” elder law power of attorney. It works just like medicine. What happens when you only have over the counter medicine but you need prescription strength? You know what happens – it doesn’t work, it’s not strong enough. For example, the standard form allows the agent to make gifts up to $5,000 dollars per year. The elder law power of attorney has no such limitation, allowing the agent to gift any amount. Let’s say a client is going into a nursing home or needs care at home. We often save the family hundreds of thousands of dollars using the elder law power of attorney to gift out to the children those amounts that will help qualify the client for Medicaid benefits. Generally, even on

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A fire broke out Thursday night at Crabby Amy, a waterfront restaurant at the Treasure Island Marina in Seaford, heavily damaging the building and several nearby boats, according to the Wantagh Fire Department. The alarm came in at around 9:24 p.m. on Aug. 21 for a report of a building fire at 2880 Ocean Ave. Second Assistant Chief Paul Krussmann was the first to arrive and r e p o r t e d h e av y flames in the restaurant and multiple boats on fire. First Assistant Chief Bill S t eve n s a s s u m e d command at the scene and declared a working fire. Engine 3 was the Courtesy Wantagh Fire Department first apparatus on site, connecting to a A fire at Crabby Amy in Seaford’s Treasure Island Marina on hydrant and deploy- Aug. 21 damaged the restaurant and several boats, but no ing a master stream, injuries were reported, and investigators later determined it followed by four hose was an accidental electrical fire. lines to battle the flames. Engine 7 Wantagh headquarters. secured another hydrant to supply MassThe Nassau County Fire Marshal’s apequa Ladder 2, which extended its aeri- Office and Nassau County Police Arson/ al ladder to pour water onto the restau- Bomb Squad investigated the fire’s cause rant and docked boats from above. and origin. The Town of Hempstead Several boats tied up at the marina Buildings Department also responded, also caught fire, and others drifted down along with the U.S. Coast Guard due to the canal while burning. Firefighters fuel that leaked into the canal from the aboard Wantagh Marine 31 worked to damaged boats. extinguish the vessels, assisted by marine No injuries were reported among civilunits from the Merrick and Freeport fire ians or firefighters. All units were departments. released from the scene after about two In total, Wantagh responded with five and a half hours, officials said. engines, two ladder trucks, one squad, According to the Nassau County Fire three ambulances and a rehab unit. Mutu- Marshal, the fire at 2880 Ocean Ave. was al aid came from Seaford, Massapequa, deemed non suspicious and appeared to North Bellmore and Levittown, while have been an accidental electrical fire. Bellmore, Merrick and Massapequa fire companies provided standby coverage at — Charles Shaw _________________ WANTAGH ________________

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HERALD SPORTS Hofstra seeks to regain CAA supremacy By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra women’s soccer kicked off the 2025 season on Aug. 14 with a flair for the dramatic that served as springboard for the program’s best start in four years. In muggy conditions that caused multiple players to go down with cramps, the Pride appeared headed for an opening night draw before sophomore forward Hailey Moschitta headed in a feed from Maggie Peterson with 5.6 seconds remaining for a 2-1 victory against St. Joseph’s (Pa.). It marked the latest game-winning goal in the program’s 32-year history. “We were just knocking on the door all day,” said 20th-year Hofstra women’s soccer head coach Simon Riddiough of the Monmouth match in which the Pride outshot the Hawks 22-2. “We’ve got enough individual talent on this team that we can make a big play at any time.” Momentum from the St. Joseph’s victory carried over into a commanding 3-0 victory against Quinnipac back home at Captains Field on Aug. 17. Hofstra (3-1) then knocked off Columbia 2-1 last Friday for the program’s first 3-0 start since 2021 with its unbeaten streak ended in a a 4-0 setback at Yale on Sunday. The Pride are looking to reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2022 with a veteran squad of 19 returning players fueled for a deep postseason run after falling to Monmouth in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) semifinals for a second straight season. Hofstra captured five CAA titles in six seasons from 2017 to 2022. The many returners include last year’s leading scorer Millie Davies, who tallied seven goals and five assists. The senior midfielder from Manchester, England was an All-CAA selection the last two seasons and Riddiough said she has a solid chance to play professionally after college. The offense also returned graduate forward Mathilde Braithwaite, a Third Team All-CAA selection who had five goals as a senior. Senior midfielders Thorhildur Thorhallsdottir and Aimee Hodgson are also back on the pitch after tallying points last fall. Hofstra got a big scoring boost with the addition of Manon Lebargy, a Middle Tennessee State transfer who was C-USA Midfielder of the Year last season after scoring 13 goals with four assists. “She is a fantastic addition,” said Riddiough of Lebardy, who scored two goals in the Quinipac

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victory. “She brings a tremendous amount of energy that resonates with the whole team.” Peterson and Moschitta, who connected on the winning goal in the opening match, arew also expected to play an integral part of the offense this season. Alexia Des Croisselles, a Quebec native and Jacksonville State transfer, has also been involved with the offense early on registering a key goal in the Columbia victory. The defense has veteran leadership from graduate students Gabriella Marte and Olivia Pearse, a former standout at Seaford High School. Sasha McTiffin and Emma Johnson also bring plenty of experience in the backline. Pearse, who missed most of last season with an injury, has also displayed offensive ability this season on set pieces with two goals including the tying tally against St. Joe’s. “She’s a tremendous athlete,” Riddiough said. “She brings a lot of physicality and is a huge threat on set piece situations.” The depth of Hofstra’s defense was stung in the opening match when senior defender Ava Lanfredi went down with a high ankle sprain injury. The first-year starter from East Greenwich, R.I. is expected to miss a few weeks and Riddiough hopes she can return for when the heart of the CAA schedule commences. Sophomore goalie Lily Bailey has started in net this season after transferring from Morehead State where she recorded five shutouts as a freshman. Graduate student Carly Travers, a former URI and Eastport South Manor High School keeper, is a capable backup in net. Hofstra will look to continue its solid start to the 2025 campaign with home matches this Thursday against Fairleigh Dickinson at 7 p.m. and Sept. 6 versus Loyola (Md.) at 1 p.m. The Pride conclude the non-league schedule on Sept. 14 at home against Dartmouth before hosting Elon in the CAA opener on Sept. 18. The Pride was picked by CAA coaches to finish third in the conference’s north division behind defending champion Stony Brook and runner-up Monmouth. The top three finishers in the division, which also comprises Drexel, Northeastern and Towson, will qualify for the six-team CAA Tournament and a chance to earn an automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament. “If we stay healthy I think we can make a really good push for it,” said Riddiough, who has guided Hofstra to nine NCAA tournaments and seven CAA titles in his two decades leading the sideline.

Courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications

Grad student Gabriella Marte is a vital part of Hofstra’s defense and also plays an important leadership role.

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Prices, stalled growth fuel housing crisis

State pushes pro-development programs as Long Island towns weigh costs and community impacts By AINSLEY MARTINEZ, CHARLES SHAW & ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN of Herald Community Newspapers

Third in a series about housing on Long Island. Long Island’s housing crisis is more than bricks and mortar — it’s a battleground where zoning, politics and community identity collide. At its root, the issue is a chronic lack of supply, Richard Murdocco, a land use columnist and lecturer at Stony Brook University, says. “Our housing supply has always been inadequate,” Murdocco said. “The pandemic only amplified the problem.” Murdocco said that zoning laws, while often criticized, generally serve a purpose by preventing overbuilding and protecting the environment, including Long Island’s sole-source aquifer. Still, he noted that some restrictions could be updated to allow for more diverse housing types, adding, “Planning is about the balance of economic and social development.” Many Long Island communities rely heavily on single-family zoning, which limits options for renters and first-time homebuyers. Murdocco pointed to examples like allowing accessory dwelling units and legalizing safe basement apartments as steps that could help ease the affordability problem without contributing to overdevelopment. Vision Long Island, a Northportbased nonprofit, promotes Smart Growth planning by working with residents and local leaders to revitalize downtowns, encourage mixed-use development and build transit-oriented housing. Its director, Erik Alexander, said these efforts have produced more than 18,000 units near public transit in 45 communities over two decades, with over 60 downtowns completing visioning or master plans. “The balance comes from the planning — not from us imposing our will,” Alexander noted. “When regional authorities do that, it backfires.” He pointed to Matinecock Court in East Northport — a 146-unit affordable housing project proposed in the 1970s but delayed for decades by lawsuits, opposition and zoning hurdles — as emblematic of Long Island’s housing struggles. Construction finally began in 2021, and as it nears completion, advocates see it both as a symbol of resistance to affordable housing and a hardwon step forward. Alexander said the barriers extend beyond zoning or community opposition to include economics and funding. “Affordability is largely a function of subsidy,” he said, “and Long Island doesn’t get its fair share.” Alexander noted that although Long Island accounts for 15 percent of New

York’s population and contributes over 2 percent in taxes, it receives only about 3 percent of the state’s affordable housing funds. “People want walkable downtowns, community, affordability, safety,” he said. “We can have all of that, but it has to come from within.” Vision Long Island also collaborates with the Long Island Housing Partnership, the region’s oldest affordable housing organization. Since 1988, President Peter Elkowitz has led its mission to preserve affordability while respecting Long Island’s suburban character. Their efforts focus on accessory dwelling units, targeted zoning reforms, and large-scale redevelopment designed to fit into existing communities. Long Island’s complex governance — two counties, 13 townships and 95 villages — adds hurdles, with overlapping approvals from school districts, health departments, and sewer authorities slowing progress, Elkowitz said. “We are inundated with different levels of government that also have overlapping responsibilities,” he said. Programs like down payment assistance, offered through county and town governments, remain key to making homeownership more accessible. Accessory dwelling units, also known as ADUs — small units within or beside singlefamily homes — are also growing in popularity, helping homeowners offset taxes and support multigenerational living, the Long Island Housing Partnership’s executive vice president, James Britz, said. “You’re renovating a single-family home, you’re not creating density in those cases,” Britz said. ADUs have been implemented in several Suffolk towns, including Huntington, Southold, Brookhaven, and soon Riverhead and Islip, while new developments are incorporating them from the start. A Bellport project will add 32 single-family homes with ADUs, and in Bay Shore, a multi-phase revitalization replaced blighted blocks with 118 new homes, sparking further investment and transforming the neighborhood. Advocates stress that there’s no onesize-fits-all solution, but sharing successes, prioritizing quality design and engaging communities early can build support, Elkowitz said. “If you do it right and you include the community, and you include something aesthetically pleasing and creative, the community usually gets behind you,” he said.

State efforts to provide affordable housing have faced backlash on L.I. To address the state’s housing shortage, Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed the New York Housing Compact, which aimed to build 800,000 homes over the

Herald file/Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Then Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin, center right, joined by other Long Island officials in 2023, opposed Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Housing Compact. next decade. The plan, proposed for the 2024 fiscal year Executive Budget, included statewide zoning mandates requiring suburban towns to allow higher-density development near transit. The initiative was intended to address New York’s housing shortage: 1.2 million jobs had been added over the previous decade, but only 400,000 homes had been built. In that time, rents had risen 60 percent, and home prices 50 to 80 percent. According to the governor’s office, restrictive zoning, red tape and lengthy approvals had made building new housing more difficult. “The New York Housing Compact is a comprehensive plan to spur the changes needed to create more housing, meet rising demand, and make our state a more equitable, stable, and affordable place to live,” Hochul stated in a news release. The initiative faced strong opposition throughout the state, with over 200 elected officials in both parties voicing their opposition, according to Alexander. “It was completely out of touch — designed to help New York City developers build more cheaply out here,” he said. Long Island elected officials argued that the compact would strip local control over zoning. In March 2023, a month before the 2024 state budget deadline, local leaders — including former Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin — gathered at the Capitol in Albany, promoting a petition signed by more than 20,000 residents against the initiative. “Removing the ability for local municipalities to oversee their housing development is wrong,” Clavin said, “and that’s why we brought a collective voice from all over New York state to Albany.” State Sen. Steve Rhoads called the housing plan “reckless and irresponsi-

ble,” saying residents should have a say in their communities. “Allow those of us who actually know Long Island, the streets of Syracuse or Buffalo, to determine what we are going to do with respect to our own jurisdictions and housing,” Rhoads said. According to reports, Hochul’s housing compact was pulled from the 2024 state budget after receiving little legislative support, but the state has made progress in expanding affordable housing. In February, the State Senate advanced a package of affordable housing bills aimed at helping homeowners and renters, including a home savings program for first-time buyers, free counseling and legal services through the Homeownership Protection Program, and a two-year look-back for senior and disability rent increase exemptions. The bills are currently awaiting action in the Assembly.

Pro-Housing Community Program sees strong support in Suffolk, but not Nassau After the Housing Compact plan collapsed, Hochul signed Executive Order 30 in July 2023, creating the Pro-Housing Communities program, which provides up to $650 million annually to communities that commit to modestly increasing housing supply. To date, over 340 communities have been certified. “There’s only one solution to New York’s housing affordability crisis: we’ve got to build more housing,” Hochul said in a statement. “The ProHousing Communities initiative is delivering the incentives communities are looking for, and this latest round of grant funding will make a real difference in every region of New York.” Downstate municipalities can earn ConTInueD on neXT paGe

State incentives feed local development fears Pro-Housing Community certification by showing 1 percent housing growth in the past year or 3 percent over the past three years, or by committing to future development through a Pro-Housing Resolution. Localities must earn Pro-Housing Communities certification to access key discretionary funding programs, which includes the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, the NY Forward program, the Long Island Investment Fund, and the Public Transportation Modernization Enhancement Program. Suffolk leads Nassau in Pro-Housing certifications and letters of intent, reflecting a regional shift toward broader policy acceptance. A Herald analysis, which accounts for land mass and acreage, shows that about 58 percent of Suffolk communities are certified or have submitted a letter of intent, compared to roughly 13 percent in Nassau. Although several municipalities in the Town of Hempstead — such as Valley Stream and Freeport — are certified as Pro-Housing Communities, the town itself is not and has no plans to seek certification. The Village of Hempstead, however, recently earned certification, as development began on two buildings by Conifer-LeChase Construction with 258 affordable units, plus a 96-unit apartment complex on Bedell Street, half reserved for veterans, making it eligible for a $10 million Downtown Revitaliza-

Illustration by Ainsley Martinez

Suffolk leads nassau in Pro-Housing certifications, with about 58 percent of communities participating versus 13 percent, signaling broader regional acceptance in Suffolk. tion Initiative grant. In 2019, the state selected the township to receive a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award for Baldwin. Its assets — including the Long Island Rail Road, strategic downtown investments, and infrastructure improvements — positioned it as an ideal candidate with a head start on the process. “Currently, two housing projects contained within the DRI are underway in Baldwin, with another two projects in the planning phase, and another transit-

oriented development is approaching completion in West Hempstead,” Brian Devine, the Town of Hempstead’s director of communications, said. The town’s efforts to address affordable housing didn’t start with Baldwin. The Archstone Westbury project, which opened in 2006 at Meadowbrook Crossing, provided 396 units. According to Devine, it was the first Long Island project with an affordable housing component, with 20 percent of units designated as affordable and 10 percent specifically for residents ages 62 and older.

Except for the Village of Farmingdale, the Town of Oyster Bay is also not part of the Pro-Housing Community program. Public Information Officer Brian Nevin said that such programs come with strings attached, pressuring municipalities to meet “unrealistic growth quotas” that could strain infrastructure, schools and public safety while raising taxes for current homeowners. “The Town of Oyster Bay has consistently opposed Albany’s one-size-fits-all housing mandates,” Nevin said in an emailed statement, “which fail to recognize the unique character and alreadydeveloped nature of our suburban communities like ours.” Nevin added that the town is committed to development that balances growth with preserving suburban quality of life. Nearly 500 residential units are underway in Hicksville, including mixed-use and transit-oriented projects. The town, he said, is encouraging the state to remove “unrealistic mandates” and return to the original Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which has proven successful in Hicksville, Westbury and other nearby communities. “Our priority is to promote affordable and attainable housing options in a way that protects taxpayers and maintains the character of our neighborhoods,” Nevin said, “without ceding local control to Albany bureaucrats.”

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Hearing loss affects that the longer sound more than just your deprivation continues, ears — it can impact the harder it becomes brain function, posture, to retrain the brain to emotional health and even process speech. your overall quality of life. Beyond cognition, According to audiologist physical symptoms Dr. Jennifer Savickis, of such as poor posture, Ear Works Audiology, neck and back pain, and even mild hearing loss elevated blood pressure deprives the brain of can develop as people essential sound input, strain to hear. Tinnitus forcing it to work harder to — ringing or buzzing process speech, especially Dr. Jennifer Savickis in the ears — can also in noisy settings. This result from hearing damage, stress or mental overload often leads to fatigue, other factors. frustration and eventually, social withdrawal. Common early signs of hearing loss include turning up the TV, mishearing Untreated hearing loss is also linked to cognitive decline, including dementia. words, difficulty in group settings “Your brain works on a ‘use it or lose it’ and feeling mentally drained after theory,” Dr. Savickis explains, adding conversations. Dr. Savickis recommends

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

Continued from PreViouS Page

August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

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Attendees were treated to dance music during PFC Joseph Dwyer’s Vet2Vet annual cookout at Wantagh Park on Aug. 23.

Supporting veterans with a park cookout Veterans, families and friends from across the South Shore came together at Wantagh Park on Aug. 23 for PFC Joseph Dwyer’s Vet to Vet annual cookout. The free event featured food, music and activities while highlighting the organization’s mission to improve and expand mental health services through com-

munity education and service. The group’s guiding motto is “Gladly Teach, Gladly Learn,” and the cookout gave the community a chance to enjoy a fun day together while also learning more about the organization’s work to support veterans. — Charles Shaw

Siblings from East Rockaway Jaya Liu, left, 7, Kaia Liu, 4, and Kaiden Liu, 9, have a great time at the cookout.

Norma Fernandez, veterans department intern, cooks up some food with Brent Russell, Director of Veteran Services at The Mental Health Association of Long Island.

East Rockaway Army Veteran Ken Liu, left, enjoying the cookout with Army Veteran Donna Zephrine and Baldwin Marine Veteran Darius Evans.

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Seaford schools welcome 22 new educators The Seaford School District recently welcomed 22 new teachers with a two-day orientation program held on Aug. 20. The event was designed to introduce faculty to the district’s schools, staff, and educational goals before the start of the academic year. — Charles Shaw

A bus tour of the community The orientation began with introductions and breakfast, followed by a yellow school bus tour of Seaford. New teachers visited all four schools in the district and saw notable landmarks around town. To make the experience interactive, they participated in Seaford trivia along the way. The tour offered incoming faculty an opportunity to learn about the community where they will be working, while also encouraging camaraderie as they got to know each other.

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District vision and resources Back at Seaford High School, teachers met with Superintendent Adele Pecora and Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Instructional Support Sheena Jacob. The session centered on the district’s mission, goals, and the Seaford Scholar profile, which emphasizes the qualities students are expected to develop. Presentations also highlighted curriculum priorities and instructional technology tools available to faculty. These resources aim to support teachers in delivering high-quality lessons aligned with the district’s educational framework.

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Preparing for the classroom The new teachers will be instructing students across grade levels and subjects including English, ENL, computer science, math, music, science, special education, and technology. As part of their preparation, they received copies of Carol Dweck’s “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success,” along with classroom posters outlining the 10 traits of the Seaford Scholar profile. Both items serve as reminders of the district’s commitment to fostering growth and achievement, while providing educators with motivational tools to share with their students.

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WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

Nobody covers YOUR HOME TOWN

things to know about incoming teachers

Scianablo challenges Ferretti’s appointment By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Joseph Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, filed a lawsuit in Nassau County Supreme Court on Monday, challenging the appointment earlier this month of his Republican opponent, John Ferretti, calling it an illegal power grab that gives Ferretti, already a Nassau County legislator, the advantages of incumbency. Town officials, however, defended the appointment, saying it was made in full accordance with the law. Scianablo, a Garden City resident, sought to contest what he described as a GOP power grab and overturn Ferretti’s appointment. “What happened the other day in the Town of Hempstead was not democracy, it was political theater,” Scianablo said. “The script was written well in advance, the stage was set, but the taxpayers were locked out of the room.” Scianablo appeared with supporters outside the courthouse, nearly three weeks after Ferretti’s appointment on Aug. 5, the same day Supervisor Don Clavin resigned. Ferretti, of Levittown, was sworn in as interim supervisor. As a county lawmaker, he represented Levittown, Bethpage, North Massapequa, and parts of Farmingdale. Scianablo’s lawsuit alle ges that Republican officials violated the state’s

Charles Shaw/Herald

Joe Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, with supporters outside Nassau County Supreme Court on Monday after filing a lawsuit challenging John Ferretti’s appointment to the post. Public Officers Law, which requires 24 hours’ public notice for resolutions scheduled at meetings. Attorney Josh Kelner, who is representing Scianablo in the lawsuit, stated in a news release that the violations are “clear-cut.” “The Public Officers Law is explicit: public bodies must give notice so that citizens can make their voices heard before major decisions are made,” Kelner said. “The Town of Hempstead’s failure to comply with this requirement constitutes a clear violation of the statute.”

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Ferretti’s appointment, Scianablo contends, was prearranged, and Ferretti acknowledged that both his and Clavin’s resignations were planned days in advance. The official meeting agenda for Aug. 5 omitted the resignation and appointment, but quietly transferred Clavin’s salary to fund Ferretti’s new role. In a statement emailed to the Herald, Brian Devine, director of communications for the Town of Hempstead, called the lawsuit a “publicity stunt” and added that the appointment did not

break any laws. “Supervisor Ferretti’s appointment was made in complete accordance with the law,” Devine wrote. “Scianablo even acknowledged this point when he announced his backing for legislation to amend the law with regard to local government succession of officials. This is a silly and disingenuous maneuver that will cost taxpayers money as a result of Scianablo’s frivolous lawsuit.” In June, Scianablo proposed an ethics-reform bill aimed at banning the practice of appointing town supervisors without a public election. In a longstanding pattern in the Town of Hempstead, six out of the last 10 supervisors, according to Democrats, were appointed rather than elected, often behind closed doors. Scianablo’s bill would prohibit midter m appointments to the town supervisor position and require a special election instead, ensuring, he has said, that residents — not political insiders — choose who leads the town. Scianablo, a veteran of the Marines and a former New York City police officer, argued that Ferretti’s appointment gives him the advantages of incumbency, including name recognition through taxpayer-funded mailers, public signage, media coverage and appearances at town events. “This is not democracy,” Scianablo said. “This is rigging the game on the taxpayers’ dime.”

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August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

Grant aids legion’s infrastructure upgrades Levittown’s american Legion post 1711 recently received a state grant of $74,250 to repair its parking lot, helping to ensure that the post can continue serving veterans and the community.

Courtesy American Legion Post 1711

Gov. Kathy Hochul said the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to veterans’ needs. “Our veterans, who have courageously served to protect our country, need and deserve to have access to safe, quality facilities to gather with family and loved ones,” Hochul recently said in a news release. “This investment will not only allow for critical infrastructure upgrades, but it will also allow veterans to come together and bond with their community and families.” Robert J. Rodriguez, president and CEO of the

state’s Dormitory Authority, said the upgrades will “help ensure that veterans have access to safe, modern facilities where they can gather, receive services, and maintain the important connections forged through their service to our nation.” Since its creation in 2022, the program has distributed more than $4.6 million to veterans’ organizations across New York. Funds may be used for design, engineering, construction, renovation or equipment purchases, helping posts complete projects that would otherwise remain out of reach.

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important for renters, but also for older veterans and family members who visit. “We don’t want anybody tripping or hurting themselves when they come to use our facility,” he said. Like many veterans’ service organizations nationwide, Post 1711 has faced financial pressures in recent years. Membership has declined, fundraising is limited, and maintenance costs often exceed what can be recouped through hall rentals. As a result, many posts across the country have been forced to close. Drummond noted that Levittown’s post is among the largest in Nassau County, and said the state assistance provides stability at a critical time. “This is one of those capital projects we just couldn’t fund ourselves,” he said. “Support like this makes all the difference.” While the lot renovation is the immediate priority, Drummond said the post would continue to look for other grants and opportunities to help maintain the building. The Levittown award is part of the third round of the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program, providing reimbursement for infrastructure improvements at veterans’ halls and service organizations across the state. In this round, $1 million was distributed to 16 organizations statewide, with grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000. Projects include roof replacements, HVAC and electrical upgrades, kitchen and community room renovations and accessibility improvements. The Levittown post was one of two on Long Island to receive funding, along with the West Islip Post 1738 American Legion, which received $74,434.

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

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August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

Over 40 arrested in county gang crackdown jdalessandro@liherald.com

One of the largest gang takedowns in Nassau County history unfolded from Aug. 13 to Aug. 18, apprehending alleged members of the MS-13, 18th Street and Trinitaros street gangs. County Executive Bruce Blakeman, District Attorney Anne Donnelly and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder highlighted the more than 40 arrests at a news conference at Nassau County Police Department headquarters on Aug. 19. “We had a very important sweeping pickup of people that were dangerous to our community and the whole region, not just Nassau County,” Blakeman said. “We want to send a clear message that gang activity in Nassau County will not be tolerated. “We in Nassau County are grateful for the federal partnership that we have with ICE, FBI, DEA and other agencies,” he added. “As a result, we are a safer community.” Undercover NCPD officers worked with federal agencies, including Immigration Customs and Enforcement and the FBI, in an intensive multi-day search to arrest the alleged gang members and charge them with a variety of crimes. “In total, we had 42 arrests over the four days,” Ryder said. “This is like

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

County Executive Bruce Blakeman with a weapon obtained during a gang-related arrest, at a news conference on Aug. 19. playing Whac-a-Mole. You poke your head up, we’re going to knock it back down. “We promised in the beginning that we were going to go after the worst of the worst,” he added. “You’re looking at it on the screen, that is the worst of the worst — and we’re not done yet.” The team was formed quickly after a home invasion and shooting on Aug. 9, according to Ryder, which was followed

by a stabbing that night and another shooting on Aug. 12, involving members of MS-13 and the 18th Street gang. Among the incidents was an attack and attempted robbery in Hempstead’s Kennedy Park, where a young pedestrian was injured with a machete and chased for two miles by four men involved with MS-13, Ryder said. The victim ran from Kennedy Park to Roosevelt, where he evaded the men.

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Suspects are now being held in various jails and ICE detention facilities. Half of them are alleged gang members, authorities said. “I am pleased to say that 33 of these offenders are in ICE custody without bond pending removal,” ICE Field Office Director Bryan Flanagan said. “ICE is working diligently to implement the administration’s goals, to clear the backlog of illegal aliens that pose a threat to the security of our communities.” During the arrests, law enforcement recovered hatchets, knives, machetes and a loaded firearm, which were displayed at the news conference, as well as cameras and hand radios. The charges against those taken into custody included home invasion, attempted murder, sex trafficking and other felonies, Blakeman said. “These arrests are a testament to how committed we are in Nassau County to dismantling gangs and their toxic influence in our communities,” Donnelly said. “My office will continue to work closely with Commissioner Ryder and the Police Department to investigate, prosecute and take down criminal organizations that put families at risk. Thanks to the cooperation between agencies, the D.A.’s office was able to bring charges against 13 alleged MS-13 gang members connected with “brutal attacks” at the end of 2024, Donnelly added.

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WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO

How are you getting ready to go back to school? Compiled by Herald Staff

Sothanee Sainsurin

James McManus

9, Baldwin

16, Calhoun High School

I traveled a lot this summer, so I’ve been reading about the places and writing in my journal. It makes me feel ready for all the new adventures waiting at school.

I’m going to get ready to learn new things. Brian Kacharaba/Herald

Photo by Sophea Sainsurin

Kurt Rauschenbach 14, Merrick

I haven’t really started yet, but my parents have been talking about me getting ready with going back to school shopping and just like getting to start like reading again, because the reading book is about to come out. Just getting back into the grind or whatever.

Jack Wolfrom

Emma Williamson

I’m gonna maybe read some books and get school supplies.

I play lacrosse in college, so I try conditioning as often as I can and going to the gym to get ready for the semester.

14, Merrick

Seaford

Photo by Mashiat Azmi

Charles Shaw/Herald

Photo by Mashiat Azmi

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August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

STEPPING OUT

The longtime festival returns with another lively tribute to the ‘World’s Greatest Entertainer’ By Iris Wiener

ecause Al Jolson is forever embraced by many as “The World’s Greatest Entertainer,” celebrating him every year has become an unmissable tradition. The Al Jolson Society is ready with the 26th edition of its annual festival, on Sept. 6, when guests will enjoy an exciting day of music, memorabilia and laughs. Jolson once said: “A responsive audience is the best encouragement an actor can have.” It was immediately clear to audiences that there was an incredible amount to which they would want to respond. The star of the ﬁrst talking picture, 1927’s “The Jazz Singer,” Jolson was an eponymous performer famous for his work in vaudeville and musical theater. In fact, there’s a street named after him on Broadway outside of the Winter Garden Theatre, where he sold out nine vaudeville musical revues. This is why Jan Hernstat, the International Al Jolson Society president and founder, feels it’s important to remember his stamp on entertainment as we now know it. “I always tell people that he was the ﬁrst superstar before that phrase was coined,” says Hernstat. “He was an international star at a • Sept. 6, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. • Information and tickets time when there was no available at Jolson.org or real media to promote call Jan Hernstat at what he did. There (516) 678-3524. wasn’t radio and TV. For • Lambrou’s Catering Hall, 4073 Austin Blvd., Island Park somebody to be as big as he was worldwide. At a time when there was nothing to promote yourself, it really talks about your talent. You think of him and the guys who followed him, and there are so few people in the same category. Frank Sinatra. The Beatles. Bing Crosby. Elvis Presley. “This is why I’m celebrating his talent, his singing and his voice. He was an incredible star. I think it’s important for us to remember who he was and what he did.” The word “celebration” is an understatement when considering the many experiences planned for festival guests. One of the highlights is the auction of Jolson items. “We have a lot of good stuff up for auction that we haven’t had in the past,” Hernstat says. “People donated collections that go back 60 or 70 years. If someone comes as a collector, they would really enjoy it!” The schedule includes a number of unique performances and a luncheon buffet. Eddie Cantor’s grandson, Brian Gari, will be on hand to share stories and greet lucky attendees. Ed Greenbaum will once again be sharing his audio rarities. This year’s festival is serving up unique comedy with new acts from some old favorites. Noah Diamond demonstrates the iconic humor of Groucho Marx with

‘Well my heart went boom…’

Courtesy Jan Hernstat

Tony B gives a rousing rendition of the Jolson standards, an annual festival performance not to be missed.

a re-creation of a radio program the comedian did with Jolson. The unforgettable Bob Greenberg and Jonathan Smith (who have previously graced the stage as Laurel & Hardy) change gears this year and take on Abbott & Costello (expect to hear a rendition of “Who’s On First?”). Jeff Greenberg is returning with his delightful comedy. Plus, for the first time, guests will enjoy Jack West’s comedic stylings as he takes on the great Jack Benny. No Al Jolson Festival is complete without the main event, the musical stylings of Tony Babino. Known as “The Heart of Al Jolson,” Babino performs an entire concert tribute to Jolson, including hits “My Mammy” and “Swanee.” “He gets better every year,” says Hernstat of Babino. “One of the main reasons that we can continue to do things like this is because we have a Courtesy Jan Hernstat guy like Tony who is so talented and Al Jolson in a scene from his fi lm “The Singing Kid” sounds so much like Jolson. It’s a joy. in 1936. It was his final lead role in a musical film. Nobody else does what he does like he does it.” A part of what makes the full-day festival so special is that enthusiasts from all over come together to reflect on their shared passion. Hernstat says guests will be traveling from Philadelphia, New Jersey and even Kansas City to be in a room of likeminded individuals who appreciate Jolson’s magic. “Where can you go nowadays to see the old-time entertainers recreated?” asks Hernstat, as he considers the unique programming planned for the day. “[For us Long Islanders] it’s right in our backyard.” Hernstat hopes that through the work of the Al Jolson Society, members will be able to continue to reach out to Jolson fans who will help keep his legacy alive. “It’s harder and harder to find those people out there who are true Jolson fans. We’re not looking to convert anyone to become a Jolson fan; we just want to find the ones out there who are and let them know that they have this outlet for their enjoyment.”

Courtesy Iris Wiener

The festival “gang” includes, from left, Jeff Greenberg, Richard Halpern, Al Jolson Society President Jan Hernstat, vocalist Tony Babino, and Bob Greenberg.

Experience Beatlemania again when 1964 The Tribute brings the early 1960s Fab Four back to life. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “the best Beatles tribute on earth,” the band channels the pre-Sgt. Pepper era with uncanny authenticity — from period instruments and vintage suits to spot-on vocals and playful onstage banter. This meticulous re-creation captures the energy and joy of The Beatles’ early live performances, offering a rare chance to feel what it was like when Beatlemania swept the globe.“1964” captures the quintessential moment in history, when The Beatles actually played before a live audience. For those that never saw The Beatles live and always wanted to know what it must have been like, this may be as close as anyone could possibly get — to feel the magic.

Friday, Aug. 28, 8 p.m. $82, $66.25, $54.75, $44.25, $31.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Brave Strangers Get ready to rock when Brave Strangers hits the stage with the music of Bob Seger. Founded by the passionate and talented Tony Paulino, this powerhouse 14-piece group delivers an authentic concert experience that captures the ﬁre, soul, and storytelling that made Seger a rock legend. From “Night Moves” to “Turn the Page” to “Old Time Rock & Roll,” Brave Strangers takes audiences on a high-energy ride through the songs that deﬁned a generation — and continue to win new fans today. With a three-piece female chorus line known as the Segerettes, the Runaway Train horn section, and a blistering eight-piece core band, their sound is as big and bold as the Motor City itself. If you’ve seen Seger live, you know the thrill. If you haven’t, this is the next best thing.

Friday, Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org.

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

Forever in tune with

August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD AUG Thursday Night Live

CALENDAR • Contact: Visit opiny.org/ donate/brower-walk or contact Marsha Radulov at (718) 8479233 ext. 2310

Wantagh Chamber of Commerce presents a free summer block party series featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors. Join in the fun on Railroad Avenue outside Mulcahy’s and in the parking lot behind The Irish Poet.

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Join the Girl Scouts of Nassau County for the 2nd annual Thin Mint Sprint 5K and 1-mile Family Fun Walk at Jones Beach during Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend. All ages welcome. Proceeds support Girl Scout programming across Nassau County.

• Where: Railroad Avenue, Wantagh (outside Mulcahy’s) • Time: 5 p.m., also Aug. 28 • Contact: Visit wantaghchamber. com for details

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Ongoing • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Rock on at the AUG park

Get in the groove with Led Zeppelin tribute band Misty Mountain and The Who tribute band Who’s Next at Eisenhower Park. • Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Summertime AUG tunes

Eisenhower Park welcomes Puerto Rican merengue singer Elvis Crespo.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Thin Mint Sprint/Family Fun Walk

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• Where: Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh • Time: 5K starts at 8:30 a.m., 1-mile walk starts at 10 a.m. • Contact: gsnc.org for registration and info

Maren Morris

Maren Morris brings “The Dreamsicle Tour” to the Paramount stage with special guest Jade LeMac. Morris has broken boundaries, smashed records and affirmed herself as a dynamic vocalist, prolific songwriter and showstopping performer on her own terms. Among numerous accolades, she has garnered a Grammy, five ACM Awards, five CMA Awards, and three Billboard Music Awards. She has earned dozens of multi platinum and gold certifications worldwide and tallied billions of streams. Her catalog encompasses a trio of acclaimed albums, namely Hero (2016), Girl (2019), and Humble Quest (2022). Speaking to her versatility, she’s the rare force of nature equally suited to collaborating with Zedd on the 6x-platinum “The Middle” or duetting with everyone from Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks and Sheryl Crow to Teddy Swims, Hozier, and Jessie Murph. Morris has sold out tours on multiple continents. Along the way, she also co-founded The Highwomen with Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, and Amanda Shires. In September 2023, Maren shared The Bridge, an EP featuring “The Tree” and “Get the Hell Out of Here,” and followed with a cover • Where: The Paramount, 370 of Billy Idol’s classic track “Dancing With Myself” in February 2024. She entered a bold new New York Ave., Huntington era with the release of her Intermission EP in August, which features “Cut!” and the MUNA- • Time: 7:30 p.m. produced and playful single “Push Me Over.” Maren promises to be unapologetically herself • Contact: ticketmaster.com — and it shows in this music and in what is next to come. $114.25, $92, $71.75, $65.25. or paramountny.com

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Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday. • Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh • Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15-10 p.m. • Contact: (516) 221-2370

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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: Thursdays, noon-4 p.m. • Contact: mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or (516) 785-2445

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Summer concert series Seaford Public Library’s summer outdoor concert series returns with

performances spanning Beatles covers, doo-wop, pop, and classic rock. Concerts are free and held in the Town of Hempstead parking lot behind the library. Bring a chair and enjoy the music! • Where: 2234 Jackson Ave., Seaford • Time: 7:30 p.m. • Contact: seafordlibrary.org

Storybook Stroll

paintings, sculptures, and murals while carefully utilizing techniques and traditions as far-reaching those of Old Master painters, 19th-century artists to 20th-century advertising and Pop Art. His subjects are diverse, often readily recognizable and at times quite humorous: from glamorous Hollywood stars to the art world itself and the grittier subjects of street art. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students, members free. Limited seating. Registration required.

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for the next storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and enjoy a telling of Allison Sweet Grant’s “Leif and the Fall.” With a take-home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

The John Brower, Jr. Foundation and Outreach host the 10th annual Heroes Against Heroin 5K Walk at Jones Beach State Park. The event raises awareness and funds for overdose prevention, education, and treatment services. Registration is $25. All are welcome to participate.

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Art Talk

Join John Grande when he visits Nassau County Museum of Art. The New Yorkbased artist reflects upon modern and contemporary culture with his constructed

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Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial 5K and Fun Run

Join in the second annual Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial 5K and Fun Run, presented by the Gary Sinise Foundation. The event honors those lost on 9/11 and supports community remembrance efforts. • Where: Wantagh High School, 3297 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh • Time: Fun Run begins at 8:15 a.m., 5K begins at 9 a.m. • Contact: wantaghschools.org/ ww911m5krun

Musical delights

Visit Old Westbury Gardens and check out the Café in the Woods while you’re there. Grab a light lunch and settle in for an afternoon of classic rock, pop hits, and a splash of ’60s soul. Central Beat brings the groove to Café in the Woods. It’s the perfect Sunday soundtrack! • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 1-4 p.m. • Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

Heroes Against Heroin 5K Walk

• Where: Jones Beach State Park, Parking Field 1, Wantagh • Time: Check-in at 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m.

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.

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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE STRUCTURED ASSET MORTGAGE INVESTMENTS II TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-AR8, Plaintiff AGAINST STEPHEN HAUFF, CYNTHIA S. PATI-HAUFF, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 20, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 9, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 2960 Morgan Drive, Wantagh, NY 11793. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 51, Block 318, Lot 34. Approximate amount of judgment $491,037.42 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608767/2017. Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No third party check or cash will be accepted. Lisa A. Goodwin, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-003662 86623 154878 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, W I L M I N G TO N SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR OCWEN LOAN ACQUISITION TRUST 2023-HB1, Plaintiff, vs. CHARLES PAUL ROMANO, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE ROMANO, DECEASED, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report, Amend the Caption, and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 16, 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 September 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 4 Patricia Court, Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 52, Block 310 and Lot 40 f/k/a part of Lot 39. Approximate amount of judgment is $478,059.61 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603268/2020. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155043 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Deborah Slade; Donald Slade, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 10, 2015, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 18, 2025, at 2:30PM, premises known as 960 Barrie Avenue, Wantagh, NY 11793-1702. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 51 Block 280 Lot 0036. Approximate amount of judgment $458,503.17 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 002092/2014. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Richard M. Langone, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: August 6, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 155241

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT 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 September 23, 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 155244

LEGAL NOTICE Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Nassau Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 606034/2025 U.S. Bank Trust National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For RCF 2 Acquisition Trust Plaintiff, vs Amanda Klotz, Shawn Klotz Individually And As Heir To The Estate Of Victoria Klotz, David G. Klotz As Heir To The Estate Of Victoria Klotz, Unknown Heirs Of Victoria Klotz If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving In terest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the

mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 777 Lynne Road Wantagh, NY 11793 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Victoria Klotz Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Seventh day of August, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to for eclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below dated April 5, 2013, executed by Amanda Klotz and Victoria Klotz (who died on December 6, 2018, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) to secure the sum of $412,392.00. The Mortgage was recorded at Book 38624, Page 878 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on May 1, 2013. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 21, 2014 and recorded on December 17, 2014, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 40103, Page 714. The

mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed July 20, 2015 and recorded on January 25, 2016, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 40970, Page 216. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 29, 2015 and recorded on January 25, 2016, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 40970, Page 221. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Amanda Klotz an d Victoria Klotz on May 26, 2017 and recorded July 3, 2018 in Book 42922, Page 25 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Amanda Klotz on January 14, 2019 and recorded September 24, 2019 in Book 43690, Page 623 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed February 12, 2020 and recorded on June 25, 2020, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2020-00052954. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 13, 2021 and recorded on February 17, 2022, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 46352, Page 637. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 16, 2021 and recorded on February 17, 2022, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 46352, Page 641. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Amanda Klotz a nd Shawn Klotz on February 20, 2024 and recorded March 20, 2024 in Book 47469, Page 431 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk. The property in question is described as follows: 777 Lynne Road, Wantagh, NY 11793 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible o ptions, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 or visit the department’s website at W W W. D F S. N Y. G O V. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about

any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not sto p this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: August 12, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 86986 155222 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF THE TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST MATTHEW CLANCY, ALLISON CLANCY AKA ALLISON M. MUGNO AKA ALLISON MUGNO, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 7, 2024, I, the

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

Public Notices

August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

Courtesy office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads

Campers met officers to learn about their work during the second annual Police Appreciation Day at Wantagh Park on July 24.

Police Appreciation Day celebrates local heroes State Sen. Steve Rhoads hosted his second annual Police Appreciation Day at Wantagh Park Summer Camp on July 24, joined by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and members of the Nassau County Police Department. The event gave campers the chance to meet officers and learn about the work of several specialized units, including the K9 Unit, Emergency Services Unit, Marine Bureau, Mounted Unit, Motorcycle Platoon, Bureau of Special Operations, and the 7th Precinct. Officers demonstrated equipment, shared stories from the field, and answered questions about their roles. Rhoads, a Wantagh native, thanked the officers for their service and dedication to keeping Nassau County safe. — Charles Shaw

State Sen. Steve Rhoads hosted his second annual Police Appreciation Day at Wantagh Park Summer Camp on July 24, joined by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and members of the Nassau County Police Department.

Public Notices

LWAN2 0828

undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 18, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 520 Ann Lane, Wantagh, NY 11793. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 51 Block: 504 Lot: 21. Approximate amount of judgment $360,363.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #617649/2022. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee

Tromberg, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1250 New York, NY 10006 25-000638 86297 155204

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST N A T I O N A L ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST JENNIFER MAUDSLEY, MARK MAUDSLEY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County

Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 18, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 12 Wisteria Lane, Wantagh, NY 11793. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 51 Block 372 Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment $763,860.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605001/2024. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-000884 86703 155216 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: B e a s t C o a s t Performance LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 06/13/2025. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 3325 Woodward Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity 155252 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

News briefs

Jones Beach reopens after coastal flooding Swimming at Jones Beach State Park rough surf conditions and potential rip resumed on Aug. 23 after Hurricane Erin tides resulting from the hurricane. caused rough surf and coastal flooding According to reports, waves from the hurthat temporarily closed the popricane pushed seawater up to ular destination. the boardwalk at Jones Beach. Gover nor Kathy Hochul State park lifeguards and announced that conditions at staff continued to monitor rip Jones Beach had improved currents and coastal flooding. enough to allow swimming. As Officials also urged New Yorkthe Herald went to press on ers to sign up for NY-Alert to Aug. 25, Robert Moses State receive real-time weather and Park was permitted only kneeemergency updates during level wading due to strong hurricane season. undercurrents and rip curNew York State Parks Comrents. At Hither Hills State missioner Pro Tempore Randy Park, swimming remained proHerald file photo Simons praised the staf f hibited because of its proximi- Swimming resumed response to the storm. ty to the storm and continued at Jones Beach . “Our teams on Long Island, dangerous surf. including staff, lifeguards and “We are are glad to reopen Park Police, have approached swimming at Jones Beach now that most this week’s extreme weather event with conditions have improved.” Hochul said. the utmost professionalism and care. On Aug. 19, Hochul directed the Office They put our patrons’ safety first,” he of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preser- said. vation to suspend swimming at Long Island ocean beaches due to flooding, — Charles Shaw

E1 08/28

Employment

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Did we have the right kind of engineer? Q. We were looking at our permit plans and noticed that they were stamped by an engineer we never met. I looked him up, and found out he’s a chemical engineer, but he sealed our plans for the structure. It made me wonder, can a chemical engineer do that, seal plans for structural? I know there are many different types of engineers from reading your column, like electrical engineer, mechanical, plumbing, etc. Can a chemical engineer be responsible for beams in our house? It just seems like the contractor, who took care of everything, just got a guy to stamp the plans. What can you tell us? A. That’s a great question, but you may find the answer confusing, as I did when I posed it to the Engineering Division of the New York State Office of the Professions. This is the board that qualifies professionals through exams, issues licenses and reviews complaints for prosecution. The person I spoke to was articulate and clearly had onte eeper been asked this question before. She stated that the state Office for Engineering Licensing does not license by “discipline.” This means they do not specifically differentiate among mechanical, electrical or plumbing engineers, and they “assume” the person providing the service will use good professional judgment. They also told me that a complaint can be filed if the person has acted in a way that shows they were not qualified or competent to perform the service. This means you would have a structural failure, revealing that the person acted outside the scope of their competency, education and training. In every instance, the answers I got were sprinkled with assumptions that a person would not knowingly practice in a field they were not qualified for. Clearly, or actually unclearly, the answer to your question would seem simple, but nothing I researched, and nobody I spoke to, had a clear answer, leaving it up to the licensed professional to “do the right thing.” I remember designing a large renovation for a family in which the father was an aeronautical engineer who had designed the wing attachments on aircraft. He asked to sit with me while I designed the main beams of his home. I took him, step by step, through the process, and he was very confident at the end that his home was structurally sound. Even though he had the capability to follow the process as an engineer, he didn’t do this kind of work, and admitted that it was different from what he did. It makes me wonder if the chemical engineer even knows his seal was being used for this structural design, or whether it was properly calculated. I often find that structure is over-compensated and more expensive than necessary in these instances. There are even cases of plans bearing the seal of people long deceased, so at least the chemical engineer is still alive to answer your question. Good luck!

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© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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opinions

cross New York, families are struggling to afford what should be the most basic necessities — heat in the winter, air conditioning in the summer, clean running water and the electricity to power homes, businesses and lives. In today’s New York, those basics are quickly becoming luxuries. New Yorkers now pay 48 percent more for electricity than the national average — and 35 percent more than residents in neighboring Pennsylvania. For working families, seniors on fixed incomes and small-business sTEVE owners, the rising RHoADs cost of energy is becoming more than a monthly inconvenience. It’s becoming unsustainable. The situation is made worse by Albany’s increasingly aggressive push for electrification — mandating electric vehicles, electric heating and cooling systems, electric stoves and even electric school buses. These policies are being rushed forward without the infrastructure, energy supply or affordability safeguards in place. The result is a dangerous combination: higher bills and a less reliable power grid.

It’s not just consumers who are raising concerns — it’s the state’s own energy experts. During a recent heat wave, the New York Independent System Operator, which manages the state’s power grid, issued multiple energy warnings due to dangerously low operating reserves. These warnings weren’t a fluke. With a few weeks of summer still ahead, the likelihood of more grid instability looms large. The state’s Draft Energy Plan even quietly acknowledges that households relying on natural gas — a clean and affordable energy source — could face significantly higher bills as Albany continues to ban gas in favor of electricity. And what’s behind the sky-high bills New Yorkers are already paying? Nearly 20 percent of the average utility bill now goes directly to government-imposed fees, surcharges and subsidies. These hidden costs fund policies and programs many families neither asked for nor benefit from — and that percentage is only expected to rise. The state Public Service Commission, which was created to protect ratepayers, has instead rubber-stamped repeated rate hikes by utility companies, leaving consumers footing the bill. Enough is enough.

It’s time for a reset. That’s why Gov. Kathy Hochul must declare an energy state of emergency and immediately pause these reckless, top-down mandates. There must be a serious, statewide reassessment of how to balance laudable environmental goals with economic realities. Protecting the environment and ensuring affordable, reliable energy are not mutually exclusive. New York can lead in innovation without leaving working families behind. That means maintaining natural gas as part of our energy mix, modernizing aging power plants and embracing real solutions like green hydrogen, nuclear energy and carbon capture — technologies with the potential to drive down emissions while keeping the lights on and the bills reasonable. State Senate Republicans have put forward common-sense solutions to ease the burden on families. That includes supporting efforts to pump the brakes on costly mandates banning gas stoves and forcing school districts to spend billions on electric buses — before the infrastructure or funding exists to make those transitions viable. Bipartisan legislation has also been introduced to allow private water companies access to grant funds for system improvements, helping relieve ratepayers’ burden.

t’s time for a reset. Gov. Kathy Hocul must declare an energy state of emergency.

Another proposed measure would eliminate the special franchise tax on private water companies — a move that could slash some water bills by more than 30 percent. To deliver immediate relief, legislation has also been proposed to give ratepayers a break of up to $600 on their utility bills, which would put real money back in the pockets of those struggling to keep up with rising costs. The stakes are too high to continue down the current path. Rolling blackouts, exploding energy bills and forced conversions to electric systems that many can’t afford are not signs of a greener future. They are warnings of policy failure. New Yorkers deserve an energy policy grounded in common sense — one that prioritizes affordability, reliability and real progress over rigid ideology. That begins with honest leadership, transparent planning and an unwavering focus on the people who pay the price for Albany’s decisions. Every resident, from Bellmore to Buffalo, should be able to count on affordable energy. Because heat in the winter and A.C. in the summer shouldn’t be considered luxuries — they’re necessities. And no New Yorker should be forced to choose between paying the electric bill and putting food on the table. Now is the time to course-correct — before the lights go out. Steve Rhoads represents the 5th State Senate District.

Finding the car keys in the refrigerator

here comes a time in family life when the balance of responsibility begins to shift. After decades of caring for our infants, toddlers and teens, and launching our children off to careers and relationships — and if we’re lucky, a decade or two, or even three, of joyful independence — we realize that we’re slowing down a bit. The grown children have their own years of freedom before new responsibilities as caregivers arise. Adult children begin to realize that they have RAnDi aging parents. Older parents KREiss need an occasional hand up. But when to step in, exactly, and how much? Hear me: The critical factor is for kids to offer help without diminishing their parents. When your kids start checking up on you, if they want to do no harm, they best have a light touch and a sense of humor. Recently, one of our grown kids visited. “You’re walking really well, Mom,”

he said. OK, I thought; he must have read an article about older people having mobility issues. However, I am not one. I walk just fine. And fast. And steady on my feet. I let the moment pass. The next day he offered to arrange my pillbox. “What’s to arrange?” I said. I take two pills, and one of them is Vitamin D. On another visit, my daughter examined the house for “fall risks.” Despite her good intentions, I was not going to let her toss the Tabriz rug I personally carried back from Istanbul. There were other moments, like the kids saying, “You already told me that story,” or “Why not leave your car keys in the same place every day so you won’t keep looking for them?” My son-in-law spent at least an hour going through my pantry and tossing anything with an expired date. All of these intrusions come from a place of good intentions, but chuck that. It feels like hovering to me, and patronizing and ageist. I’ll know when I need help, and I won’t hesitate to ask. And yes, I realize this sounds slightly unreasonable. On the other hand, I am very grateful

to be living in a multigenerational family that keeps a watchful eye on us and visits often, even when we aren’t that much fun. We all know that millions of older people don’t have the blessings conferred by caring children. They may not get to go out or eat the right foods or enjoy the support of family and friends. I’m speaking from a point of privilege in that regard. This is tricky emotional terrain on all sides, best negotiated openly and with a light touch. With that in mind, I am ready now for my kids’ next visit/inspection next month. I put my shoes in the fridge and four cans of refried beans in the bathtub. Finding humor in advancing age isn’t always easy. Toward the end of my mother’s life, she lived with us for a few months. She had a helper who took her to the supermarket, where she enjoyed picking up a few things. One day they walked in the front door with a fresh challah bread. “Look at this bread,” my mom beamed. “It’s a beauty.” She forgot she had bought the same bread the day before. But before I could summon the grace required in the

hen your kids start checking up on you, they better have a sense of humor.

moment, I said, “That’s the second bread you bought for tonight.” That was seven years ago, and I can still see the flustered embarrassment on my mother’s face. We might have made a joke of it, but my tone was chiding, and I regret not summoning my better angels. Now that I am in my eighth decade, heaven help the kid who says, “You told me that already” or shows impatience when I can’t find my phone or walks around my house dimming the bright lights. The landscape of older age holds perils for me and some of my fellow boomers who may have replaced hips or knees or failing eyesight or chronic pain. Some of us can remember everything just fine. Some can remember everything, but not right away. Some can’t remember much. Kindness lies in not pointing out the lapses, but listening to a story a second time. When we’re among our own kind (that would be other older people), we make jokes about fading memory and increasing wrinkles. When our kids point out any diminishing capacities, it feels like a rebuke. My advice and wish: Walk more slowly, kids, when you walk alongside us; soon you will be walking in our footsteps. Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

The high cost of Albany’s energy mandates

Herald editorial

Wantagh

August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

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A school year of excitement and uncertainty

s August winds down, another academic year is approaching for Nassau and Suffolk’s 124 school districts. Yellow buses are getting their final inspections, teachers are setting up classrooms, and families are shopping for supplies with that mix of excitement and anxiety that marks the end of summer vacation. But this coming school year carries more uncertainty than usual. Long Island schools are preparing students for a world that seems to shift beneath our feet daily. Kindergartners are beginning their educational journey in schools grappling with fundamental questions about the future of education itself. While 5-yearolds will still learn to read and write, they will also encounter technology that was science fiction just a few years ago. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how students access information, complete assignments and develop skills. The question isn’t whether AI will transform education — it’s how quickly, and whether our schools can adapt fast enough to harness its power while teaching students to think critically about its limitations. Teachers will learn alongside their students, figuring out when to embrace AI tools and when to insist on traditional methods. Administrators will write policies for technology they don’t yet fully understand. Parents will try to help with homework that involves apps and platforms they’ve never seen. We’re all on this learning curve together, and that’s not something to be embarrassed about — it’s the reality of living through a technological revolution. Perhaps nowhere is this uncertainty more acute than in our middle schools, where students are forming their first serious academic interests and beginning to imagine their futures. These young people will eventually graduate from high school and college into a job

market where artificial intelligence may have eliminated entire career categories while creating others we can’t yet envision. How do we prepare seventh-graders for careers that don’t exist? How do we teach them to value human creativity and critical thinking in an age of machine learning? Long Island’s high schools face an even more complex challenge. They must prepare students for college admissions that increasingly emphasize authentic achievement over test scores, in an environment where the priorities of colleges and universities have become politically charged. The specter of federal education cuts adds another layer of complexity. The proposed elimination of the Department of Education could reshape everything from special education funding to college financial aid. Programs that have supported Long Island students for decades — from Title I funding in our most challenged districts to federal student loans that make college accessible — face an uncertain future. Combined with rapid technological changes, the gap between Long Island’s poorest and most affluent school districts — sometimes right next door to one another — could expand to unthinkable size. We must not lose sight of districts that need resources the most. These potential cuts extend beyond education budgets. Federal research funding that has sustained STEM careers could evaporate. Environmental programs that employ thousands of Long Island residents hang in the balance. Government functions that provide stable middle-class employment may be transformed or eliminated. These challenges are causing real anxiety for families across the Island. Parents wonder whether they’re preparing their children adequately for an unknowable future. Students feel pres-

letters Extremism, too, will affect the world’s future To the Editor: Re Peter King’s column last week, “Isolation, antisemitism will affect the world’s future”: It seems the world has to wait for those who have survived the horrors of war to pass into history before it can be primed for the same mistakes to be made again. Ignorance or agenda rule the day, and people, as ever, are easily led by demagoguery. I find it frightening that neither party practices commonsense, moderate approaches to problems. Whereas once upon a time, the two political parties orbited closely around a center point, those halcyon days are but a dim memory. Nowadays, each party orbits far, far away from a center that I believe is the American character. The answer to our problems will not be

sure to make educational choices without knowing which paths will lead to viable careers. Teachers question whether their expertise remains relevant as technology advances. And all of this is compounded by the new statewide cellphone ban, whose consequences on learning, behavior and social dynamics are nervously anticipated by students, parents and teachers. The anxiety is valid and understandable. Rather than pushing these concerns aside or pretending everything is fine, our communities need to create spaces where families can voice their worries and seek support. School counselors, parent groups and community organizations must be prepared to help families navigate not just academic decisions, but the emotional toll of living with constant uncertainty. Success in this coming year won’t be measured solely in test scores or college acceptance rates, though those remain important. The real measure will be whether our students graduate with the adaptability to thrive amid constant change, the critical thinking skills to navigate an information landscape increasingly shaped by AI, and the resilience to build meaningful careers even as traditional paths disappear. Long Island has faced uncertainty before and emerged stronger. The key has always been acknowledging challenges honestly while focusing on what unites us: Ensuring that every child develops not just knowledge, but wisdom. As classroom doors prepare to open, we must acknowledge that we’re sending our children into uncharted territory. Our job — as parents, educators and community members — is to give them the tools to draw their own maps. School bells are about to ring. The future is speaking a language that we’re all still learning.

opinions

ffordable living in Nassau county is a great concern for most residents. as a former member of the Legislature’s Finance committee who now serves on the Rules committee, i have kept an eye on wasteful expenditures, missed opportunities for substantial revenue, and employment-generating projects. Nassau county residents deserve to know how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent. so let’s take a closer look. the county has lost two major development opportunities this year, one at the Uniondale hub sCott m. and another on DaVis the Nassau community college campus. in april 2023, county executive Bruce Blakeman, with great fanfare announced an agreement with Las Vegas sands for a $6 billion project at the hub anchored by a casino and resort. according to Blakeman, it was a can’t-miss opportunity that would transform the property occupied by Nassau Veterans Memorial coliseum. that can’t-miss opportunity missed. this april, the sands abruptly announced that it was no longer pursuing this project. also in 2023, NYU Langone, the coun-

ty and Ncc commenced negotiations to build a $3 billion medical facility on campus. Blakeman boasted that the project would create “the number one hospital in america.” this March, NYU Langone unexpectedly withdrew from the project, stating that “external factors” made the project “too burdensome to proceed.” With that, $9 billion in projected growth for Nassau’s future, thousands of construction jobs, employment opportunities and millions in tax revenue to sustain vital services were erased. critical investments for the greater good continue to stagnate. since 2022, the county has accrued nearly $100 million in opioid lawsuit settlement funds, but only $9.1 million has been disbursed to agencies for prevention, treatment and recovery services. the prevalence of opioid use requires an immediate and sustained response, and utilizing these settlement proceeds increases the likelihood of long-term success, which in turn lessens crime as well as the societal and financial burdens of addiction borne by us all. as for wasteful expenditures, Blakeman has nearly tripled the amount of money spent on outside counsel contracts to represent the county instead of using the county attorney’s office. according to Newsday, some of these

contracts went to firms that have donated to Republicans, including Blakeman. the cost of these contracts increased from $6 million in 2022 to over $20 million in 2024. Last year alone, the county spent nearly twice as much on outside counsel than on the entire county attorney’s office. in early 2024, with a Republican majority vote, the county’s $200,000 annual contract for legal advertisements with Newsday was canceled and replaced by the New York Post, even though Newsday published over 1,600 articles about Nassau county in 2024, whereas the Post published only 155. in January, Newsday sued the county, alleging First amendment violations and retaliation for news articles and editorials that county officials considered unfavorable. in May, the Republican majority in the Legislature authorized up to $1.7 million to retain a Manhattan-based law firm to defend the lawsuit, at a rate of $1,400 to $2,200 an hour. the administration and the legislative majority have also approved $3.2 million to fight a court ruling that Nassau county wrongfully charged more than $400 million in red-light camera ticket fees. they have not planned for the possibility that the county will be forced to return millions of dollars to impacted drivers. then there’s Blakeman’s provisional

ritical investments continue to stagnate, amid wasteful expenditures.

Letters found in jackboots, nor will they be discovered in those wearing flowers in their hair, but somewhere in between. RichaRd PeteRs Merrick

‘Hochul’s partisan war’ started in Texas, Jake to the editor: Re assemblyman Jake Blumencranz’s op-ed in the aug. 14-20 issue, “this ain’t texas: We must end hochul’s partisan war,” decrying the push for redistricting in New York: it’s hard to disagree with Mr. Blumencranz’s statement that “voters should choose their representation — not the other way around.” But then what, exactly, should New York do to counter texan efforts to subvert that very principle with their blatant attempt to create more Republican districts so that the house of Representatives represents only one party? We should certainly be above such partisan tactics. But we cannot passively be held to a higher standard while others are pushing us toward one-party rule. this is “hochul’s partisan war”? i suggest that Mr. Blumencranz address his valid concerns to the texas lawmakers. RichaRd schWaRz Bayville

Are those in power aware of seniors’ struggles?

deputy sheriff program, known as his “militia.” after he did not respond to our requests for basic information, in the interest of public safety and protecting taxpayers from exposure to financial liability, Legislator debra Mulé and i sued Blakeman — which could have been avoided if he had simply followed the law. it is important to note that, while our counsel in that case is pro bono, the administration has again retained outside counsel, at a cost of up to $200,000. as for county finances, the independent, nonpartisan Office of Legislative Budget Review recently reported that the Blakeman administration would be on pace to run a $100 million deficit in 2025, if not for the use of reserves made possible by last year’s one-time infusion of money from the federal american Rescue Plan act. in doing so, they have created the illusion of a balanced budget while, in fact, they are spending more than they are taking in. as we move forward, it is imperative to eliminate unnecessary expenditures and make fiscal decisions based on reasonable revenue projections. Blakeman is now crafting the 2026 budget during a time of tremendous uncertainty in which significant federal funding cuts are likely. We must be more fiscally prudent and not risk the county’s financial health by gambling on potential revenue sources that can disappear on a whim. Scott M. Davis represents Nassau County’s 1st District.

Framework by Caroline Opinsky

to the editor: senior citizens like me have had to adapt our purchasing habits, often choosing less expensive alternatives or forgoing some foods, like beef, completely. as reported, the major driver of the rise in the cost of beef is drought. so, what does President trump do? he ends all initiatives that would curtail climate change. that and imposing taxes (tariffs) on the beef we import has made seniors on fixed incomes think twice, not about whether they can afford steak, but hamburger meat. couple that with the deportation of america’s ranch hands and meat-packers, and some seniors are facing food insecurity for the first time. this disregard for senior citizens is apparent in local government, as well. a staggering 12.1 percent increase in hempstead’s tax levy at a time when many seniors are having a hard time brings it to a crisis level. While seniors struggle for sustenance, it is unconscionable that the town spends our tax dollars on raises to undisclosed friends and family and utilizes public funds for partisan campaign mailers. For the town to then hand out t-shirts that prominently list their candidates’ names at senior events shows a pro-

A summer day on the Mediterranean — Tel Aviv, Israel

found insensitivity to their plight. Reminds me of when trump tossed paper towels to hurricane victims in Puerto Rico, underscoring the disconnect between those

in power and the communities they serve. cLaUdia BOReckY President, Bellmore Merrick Democratic Club

WANTAGH HERALD — August 28, 2025

All that glitters isn’t gold: a closer look at county finances

August 28, 2025 — WANTAGH HERALD

SPEAKER LINEUP ANNOUNCED: Experts Taking the Stage to Champion Women’s Health, Wealth & Growth

JENNIFER WATSON

Keynote Speaker Executive Performance Strategist, Wellness Expert Watson World Wide, LLC

DONNA M. STEFANS, ESQ., AIF® Wealth Advisor and Lead Estate Attorney, The Stefans Group

JOSEPHINE FITZPATRICK Founder & CEO, Innovation Healthy Market | Author & Nutrition Expert

STACEY I. SIKES

Vice President of Government Affairs and Communications, Long Island Association

ANNE PETRARO

CAROL A. ALLEN President/CEO, People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union

Executive Director, Mending Hearts Counseling

LINDA HARKAVY, MD

President/Medical Director, Form and Function

HELEN HSIEH, MD, FACOG

CATHERINE CANADEO CEO, Health and Wellness Corp

DENISE SAVINOERICHSEN

President, Automatic Industries Inc.

JAMIE ROSEN, ESQ.

JEFFREY REYNOLDS, PHD

Founder & Medical Director, Vibrance 360

Partner & Chair, Mental Health Law Group, Meister Seelig & Fein PLLC

President & CEO, Family & Children’s Association

LUIS FANDOS, MD, FAAAM, FABAPM

MARIA CONZATTI, ED.D.

MOLLIE WESCOTTBARNETT

ROCHELLE L. VERRON, ESQ.

STEPHANIE TRENTACOSTE MCNALLY, MD, FACOG, FACS, MSCP

STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, MD, FACS

Chief Administrative Officer, Nassau Community College

Founder & CEO, Alluring Age Anti-Aging and Wellness Center

Vice President OB/GYN, Central Region Director of OB/GYN Services at the Katz Institute for Women’s Health

Founder & Plastic Surgeon, Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery

AI Strategist & Business Growth Architect, State & Signal

Founder & Managing Partner, Verron Law, P.C.

SUSAN GATTI

TIFPHANI WHITEKING

Founder & Managing Partner, Disruptive Spark Business Academy

PointVoIP COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

Principal, US & Global Tax Committee Member, Forvis Mazars

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VERONICA ISAAC

Senior Manager, Customer & Community Partnerships, PSEG Long Island Beach Bag Sponsor

VICTORIA SPAGNOLO, ESQ.

Associate Attorney, NHG Law Group, P.C.

KIM COTTAGE

Co-Founder, Philanthropy Network of New York