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Meet Wantagh’s valedictorian, salutatorian “I was always just trying to do my best,” Como said, adding that learning his hard work For Wantagh High School’s had earned him the recognition top two Class of 2027 graduates was “really gratifying.” Even though some had pre— Lauren Furer and Matthew Como — academic success has dicted, as early as her sophomeant more than merely earn- more year, that she might become the valedictorian, ing high grades. The duo said they have Furer said the announcement still surprised her. found inspiration in She said that she classmates and began to take the teachers, pushing p o s s i b i l i t y m o re through personal seriously midway challenges and through her junior reserving time for year. the people and Both Furer and activities that have C o m o h ave b e e n made high school involved in Wantmemorable. agh’s Science F u re r, 1 7 , h a s Research Academy been named valedicsince it was torian with a l a u n ch e d d u r i n g weighted GPA of their freshmen year. 109.417, and Como, PAUL GUZZONE They have particialso 17, has been Principal, pated in science chosen as salutatoWantagh High School competitions and rian with a 109.009 conducted research G PA . B o t h h ave challenged themselves with outside the classroom — expedemanding academic schedules riences that helped shape their while participating in science plans for college and their research, music and extracur- careers. Furer will graduate with the ricular activities. Despite their accomplish- accomplishment of completing ments, neither said earning 17 Advanced Placement coursone of the school’s top two aca- es. A member and co-captain of demic honors was their only the Science Olympiad team, she goal. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

By HUNTER FENOLLOL

hfenollol@liherald.com

Stu Goldman/Herald

Team CMIT Solutions, championed by Armando D’Accordo, an Alzheimer’s Association board member, at the Oct. 3 walk in Eisenhower Park.

Alzheimer’s awareness walk turns heartbreak into hope for a cure By JULIA GILLEGO & JORDAN VALLONE of the Heralds

Fo r Wa n t a g h r e s i d e n t A r m a n d o D’Accordo, whose parents both had Alzheimer’s disease, the Nassau Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a chance to honor his family and support others facing similar challenges. D’Accordo, an Alzheimer’s Association board member and executive event co-chair, was among about 1,200 people who gathered at Eisenhower Park, in East Meadow, on Oct. 4 for the annual walk. The event raised more than $396,000 for research, care and support programs, surpassing its $300,000 goal. “For me, the walk to End Alzheimer’s is a group hug that represents love, remembrance and hope for a cure,” D’Accordo told the Herald. “I walk for the people who have been affected and for the families who stand beside them. I walk for those that deserved

to be remembered for who they were, not how they were affected.” D’Accordo, who owns CMIT Solutions, an information technology company in Merrick, became involved with the association because of his parents’ experiences with Alzheimer’s. The disease affects the entire family, he said. The association provides support, resources, advice and reading material to help relatives understand what their loved ones are experiencing and prepare for changes in their care. “It’s not a straight line,” D’Accordo said of the disease. “It’s not predictable. My advice to people, since I’ve gone through it, is, try to make some decisions, try to get a plan in place. Be ready to change, because circumstances change. There’s so many variables.” Organized by the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter, the annual walk CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

t’s that work ethic that they have and their commitment to achieve at a high level.

The Experts at U.S. News Agree: Mount Sinai South Nassau is High Performing

mountsinai.org/southnassau 1348036

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

Joshua Kugler takes the helm at Mount Sinai agrieco@liherald.com Dr. Joshua Kugler has spent nearly 25 years caring for patients at Mount Sinai South Nassau. Now, he is taking on a new role at the Oceanside hospital, as it enters what he describes as one of the most consequential periods in its history. Kugler, 57, was recently named interim president of Mount Sinai South Nassau, succeeding Dr. Adhi Sharma, who retired earlier this summer after leading the hospital since 2021. Kugler, a longtime emergency medicine physician and former chair of the hospital’s Emergency Department, said his focus will be on continuing the hospital’s expansion while preserving the community-oriented culture that has kept him there for decades. “I am focused on the expansion of advanced services for our patients on the South Shore of Nassau County while ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients and staff,” Kugler said. The hospital has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, including the opening of the Fennessy Family Emergency Department and a four-story Feil Family Pavilion for expanded critical care capacity. The campus is also in the midst of bringing new surgical capabilities to the South Shore. On Sept. 29, four of nine newly constructed operating rooms opened, including highly specialized rooms designed for cardiac and neurological procedures. “It gives you a lot of perspective,” Kugler said. “Everybody is part of a team.” The expansion is part of a roughly $500 million capital program that has included new parking lots for staff and patients, a new cafeteria, the new operating rooms, and the emergency room. “They’re beautiful critical care spaces, and that’s about touching people when they’re at their most vulnerable,” he said. “People are vulnerable, the families are vulnerable, and patients can be at great risk. Now, we have beautiful spaces for them.” For Kugler, the growth represents more than new buildings and equipment. It is part of a long-running effort to give South Shore residents access to increasingly advanced care closer to home. “I was never a big fan of transplanting people,” Kugler said, recalling his years in the emergency department. “It’s really humbling as an emergency room doctor to stabilize a patient in the emergency room, connect with the family, and then have to tell them, ‘I’m sorry, we can’t provide the level of care needed here.’” Kugler said the ability to provide more complex care locally can ease the burden on patients and their families, particularly when serious illness requires repeated hospital visits. His connection to the South Shore extends well beyond his role at the hospital, giving him a personal investment in the community he serves. Kugler was born in Brooklyn and grew up on Long Island. Before becoming a physician, he worked as a lifeguard at Jones

Beach and Robert Moses and became an EMT, experiences that helped shape his desire to work in medicine. “Even during that time of my life, I really loved saving lives,” Kugler said. “I’ve always found myself moved by the ability to take care of others and giving myself to others.” He attended Duke University, where he earned a degree in zoology and physics, then subsequently served in the U.S. Navy. The Navy supported his medical education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree in 1995 and continued his education at Harvard University, receiving a Master of Health Care Management. He later completed an emergency medicine residency at North Shore University Hospital, where he served as chief resident. Kugler joined Mount Sinai South Nassau in 2001 as an emergency medicine physician and became clinical chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine in 2004. He also served as chief medical officer from 2007 to 2009 before returning to lead the Emergency Department. He remained closely involved with the hospital through Superstorm Sandy, the aftermath and the closure of Long Beach Medical Center. After the storm devastated Long Beach, Kugler helped advocate for expanded emergency medical services on the barrier island. The effort eventually led to the development of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s emergency department in Long Beach, which he said was intended to ensure residents could receive care without having to cross the bridge to Oceanside. “They felt isolated by the superstorm.

People left, doctors left, offices closed. Urgent care was the most important thing,” Kugler explained. “They wanted to stay home, and they deserved to have the same access to care.” His involvement in Long Beach continued through his role as the city’s medical director. “I think the bottom line there is that you build trust with people,” Kugler said. “And in healthcare, now more than ever, we need to build trust.” That philosophy is also how he approaches his new position. “This hospital has always done amazing things for the community,” Kugler said. “But beyond that, we are part of that community.” As interim president, Kugler is particularly focused on the safety and wellbeing of patients and staff, as well as the challenges facing the healthcare workforce. He pointed to staffing pressures, an aging workforce and the increasing number of older patients requiring care as challenges facing hospitals nationwide. “Safety and wellbeing are my top priorities, but I worry about the burnout and the fact that society has so much pressure on it right now,” Kugler said. For Kugler, that growth and mission is closely tied to the hospital’s relationship with the larger Mount Sinai Health System. The combination of clinical care, research and medical education gives Mount Sinai South Nassau access to expertise and resources that can be brought to patients on Long Island. “The idea that ‘we find a way’ is really true here,” Kugler said. “We always find a way to take care of our patients and do it in a better, more meaningful, compassion-

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

By ABIGAIL GRIECO

Courtesy Mount Sinai South Nassau

Dr. Joshua Kugler has been named interim president of Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital.

ate way.” As he takes over the hospital, Kugler said he hopes to maintain that culture while building on the foundation established by Sharma. His next chapter, he said, will be defined by continued growth, but also by maintaining personal connection that he believes distinguishes the hospital. “As long as you treat everyone with respect, something I have learned, very early on in my career, is that everybody is important, and everybody has a superpower,” Kugler said. “My job is to help everyone be successful in their own ways. I am honored to lead our team during this critical time.”

Kugler is taking the lead for MSSN amid its expansion, which includes nine new operating rooms.

Courtesy Mount Sinai South Nassau

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

How will architects use A.I.? Ask The Architect

Q. There’s been a lot of controversy about A.I. lately, and I’m wondering what it has done for architects. Do you see a threat to your job, or has it been helpful? Will it lower the cost of architects? What do you see in the immediate future?

A. As Yogi Berra once said, the future ain’t what it used to be. It’s getting closer all the time. Artificial intelligence is a way to solve problems faster using computers. I wish it were so, that A.I. saved time and money, especially for planning, drawing and building. The process of developing a project — a renovation, addition or new building — has many stages. First there’s what’s referred to as “scope of work,” that is, putting together an outline of the needs to be fulfilled, the onte eeper study of limitations, such as laws (building and zoning codes) and physical restrictions (weather, water and other influences), the process of getting all the spaces to flow together and be sized well, the material selections, structural analysis, the creation of the pretty picture to make the project look good, then the process of documenting everything into a set of construction plans showing how all the thousands of parts go together. There will come a time when the assembly part of the process, on screen and paper, will be faster, because the computer processing is faster, but because each stage also includes human emotion, unwritten local rules and owner decisions, unless humans just step aside, the computer can’t read minds, at least not yet, and the process will still need human guidance for a long time to come. I’ve been able to develop artistic renderings of what a project will look like in an hour (with multiple voice command edits) instead of a day, but the computer will assemble parts in ways that may be physically impossible if not closely monitored, such as balconies protruding from buildings with no way to get out onto them, handrails running into windows, floors too thin to be structurally sound — blunders that a human can catch but A.I. hasn’t perfected, yet. Each part of the process has tasks that A.I. is helpful with, such as researching the most applicable section of a building code to determine if a selected window opening, set of stairs or fire safety equipment is correct. But A.I. can also select the wrong version of a law, one that’s outdated, and A.I. won’t know the difference. If a human doesn’t realize the error, problems move forward and can cause delays instead of saving time. Another problem is described as “garbage in, garbage out,” a phrase known in the computer industry since its beginnings. If the input isn’t clear and concise, the output is open to failure. Humans will need to sharpen their skills, too!

© 2026 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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Reverse Mortgages We have long been advocates of the reverse mortgage, an underutilized tool for seniors in need of additional retirement income. Baby boomers as a group are currently between the ages of 62 and 80 years old. They tend to have lower savings rates than their parents, fewer pension and retirement plans, have experienced many years of lower interest rates and are facing considerably longer life expectancies. Reverse mortgages are available to those 62 and older. No repayments are due until the last of the borrowers dies or the home is sold. Heirs have up to twelve months to sell the home, refinance the home or buy it themselves. You can never owe more than the house is worth so if the property is upside down the heirs can simply walk away. On the other hand, if the equity in the home exceeds the loan amount, the heirs keep the excess proceeds. Reverse mortgage loans are generally taxfree for up to 70% of the equity. While there are no loan payments, the homeowner remains responsible for taxes, insurance and upkeep on

the home. Loans may be taken as (1) a lump sum, (2) a line of credit; or (3) a stream of income. They are often used to pay off existing mortgages in order to eliminate mortgage payments and gain more disposable income. Oddly enough, there may be some benefit to taking out a reverse mortgage closer to the age of 62. This allows the use of a relatively small portion of the reverse mortgage loan to fund life and long-term care insurance to both (a) protect the client’s assets from the cost of long-term care, and (b) to replace the money taken out of the home with the tax-free proceeds of life insurance upon death. Those life insurance proceeds may also be used to pay off the reverse mortgage and keep the home. For those looking for retirement alternatives, a reverse mortgage may allow for the purchase of a second home and the adoption of a “snowbird” lifestyle or it may allow for the purchase of an income-producing investment property. It may also be used to help adult children in need as an advance on their inheritance.

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ELEVATE THE CONVERSATION

The write stuff

There’s a lot being written about writing now due to the universal use of artificial intelligence to encourage, embellish, support and complete our writing pieces. But the process, the sheer journey of putting one’s ideas to gether to communicate thought, needs to be learned before it’s condensed by a machine. That’s why academics want to encourage writing skills while business wants the speed and efficiency of adapting to AI. Yet without basic proficiency in any process there is no way we can turn out worthy employees to do an adequate job.

Unlike what they are used to, students in class are encouraged to write “with their own voice”. The objective for me is to hear diverse perspectives as assignments are not formal research papers. You would think this invites less pressure, but the demand to be authentic can be daunting.

Gust Columnist

To encourage building the “writing muscle”, I recently introduced my class to the “Writing and Speaking Studio” on campus.

LAUREN LEV

For some, writing is a ch o re. Fo r m e i t i s a release of the words I hear in my head (as I type or formerly when I wrote on paper), editing as I go. I have always enjoyed it, from the time I won an honorable mention in a writing contest in elementary school, to the humbling honor of writing here each week. Yet writing must start somewhere, one thought at a time.

Here, a re presentative explained, was where one could come to discuss the be ginning, middle or end of a writing project with a peer counselor to strengthen communications.

I t i m p rove s wh e n i t d o e s n’ t scrape the most basic information on the inter net but originates in our own hearts and minds. It isn’t easy, but rather messy and tough. Anything worth building usually is.

It was not just a place for papers, but for writing anything: resumes, cover letters, scholarship and graduate school applications, even online profiles, direct or text messages. In short, if the goal is to i m p rove w r i t t e n l a n g u a g e yo u need an opportunity to write. And rewrite.

A contributing writer to the Herald since 2012, Lauren Lev is a direct marketing/advertising executive who teaches marketing fundamentals as well as advertising and marketing communications courses at the Fashion Institute of Technolog y and SUNY Old Westbury.

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MacArthur charges past Roosevelt By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

JACKSON LANGEVIN OCEANSIDE Senior SOCCER TO SAY LANGEVIN has been on a tear this season would be an understatement. One of only two Nassau County boys soccer players to have double-digits in goals (12) and assists (11) entering this week’s action, he’s as big a reason as any Oceanside is close to securing the top seed in the Class AAA playoffs. The Sailors were undefeated through 13 games. Langevin’s top performance came Sept. 30 when he scored a hat trick in a 4-3 win over Syosset.

GAMES TO WATCH Friday, Oct. 16 Boys Volleyball: Lawrence at Hewlett...............4:30 p.m. Girls Soccer: Division at East Meadow............4:30 p.m. Girls Volleyball: Clarke at Lawrence ......................5 p.m. Girls Volleyball: Plainedge at V.S. North ................5 p.m. Football: Lynbrook at ERock/WHemp ..................6 p.m. Football: Mepham at Long Beach ........................6 p.m. Football: Plainedge at South Side .......................6 p.m. Football: Syosset at Farmingdale ....................6:30 p.m. Football: Port Wash at Oceanside. ..................6:30 p.m. Football: New Hyde Park at MacArthur.................7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17 Girls Soccer: Kellenberg at Oceanside ...............10 a.m. Girls Volleyball: Oceanside at Massapequa........10 a.m. Girls Volleyball: Lynbrook at V.S. South...............10 a.m. Girls Volleyball: Kennedy at Calhoun ..................10 a.m. Football: Bethpage at Wantagh.......................1:30 p.m. Football: Herricks at Uniondale ......................1:30 p.m. Football: Carey at Garden City ........................1:30 p.m. Football: Kennedy at Calhoun ........................1:30 p.m. Football: Roosevelt at Baldwin........................1:30 p.m. Football: Lawrence at North Shore..................1:30 p.m. Football: Massapequa at East Meadow ..........1:30 p.m. Football: Sewanhaka at Elmont ......................1:30 p.m. Football: Malverne at Seaford .............................2 p.m.

MacArthur entered halftime of last Saturday after noon’s Conference II football game at Roosevelt in a scoreless tie before the offensive floodgates opened up. The Generals scored 19 points in the third quarter en route to a 19-6 road win to improve to 2-3. The key win marked the second victory in three games for MacArthur as it looks to end the regular season strong to claim one of the league’s eight playoff bids. “In the first half everything went against us with the ball at our end the whole time with two turnovers and just couldn’t make any plays,” said first-year MacArthur head coach Steve Fazzolari. ”We took the opening kickoff in the second half, back to around midfield and then just went to work on the ground and and the momentum shifted,.” Senior running back Ethan Shapiro led the charge Saturday for the Generals rushing for 138 yards and a touchdown. His one-yard third quarter score gave MacArthur a 13-0 lead. MacArthur also got a big day on the ground from senior running back Tyler Centonze, who had 42 yards rushing. He started the scoring with one-yard plunge that gave the Generals 7-0 lead following a John Cardone extra point. Senior quarterback Vinny Szucs put an explanation point on MacArthur’s explosive third quarter with a 25-yard rushing touchdown that made it 19-0. The Generals’ defense keyed the win with senior defensive back Colin McDermott recording an interception and senior strong safety Jake Henschel recording two sacks. Centonze also stepped up big defensively with a teamleading eight tackles at linebacker. “Tyler definitely led the charge there with great reads and making plays in the backfield,” Fazzolari said. “He was all over the field for us.” MacArthur, which entered the season ranked seventh in Conference II, earned its first win of the 2026 campaign with a 20-15 upset against East Meadow in a v

Don’t let injuries sideline you.

Courtesy Levittown Public Schools

The Generals improved to 2-3 thanks to a strong second half at Roosevelt last Saturday. non-league crossover game on Sept. 28. Shapiro clinched the win when he registered a tackle on a fourth down play late in the game that enabled the Generals to run out the clock. Fazzolari credited his offensive line for helping to power the two wins led by left tackle Bryan Lynch, left guard Sebastian Vasilou, center Trisitian Waters, right guard Jimmy DeSetto and right tackle Connor Schmidt. Senior tight end Mike Lane and junior Jason Dall’Aste tight end have also been key to opening up holes in the running game with their blocking abilities. “Our offensive line has really taken

pride in running the football,” Fazzolari said. “They really have done a fantastic job opening holes and playing hard throughout the entire game.” MacArthur will look to keep the winning ways going with a Friday home game against New Hyde Park kicking off at 6 p.m. The Generals conclude the regular season at Valley Stream Central on Halloween afternoon for 1:30 p.m. kickoff. “The goal is always to go 1 and 0 every week so right now that is our focus,” Fazzolari said. “The kids will get ready during the week and try to handle business on Friday night.”

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October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

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9/11 Memorial Committee to host Oktoberfest

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Seaford High School alumni — whether they still live around the corner or have moved far from their hometown — are invited to reconnect on Oct. 18, when the Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee hosts its third annual Oktoberfest at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall in Wantagh from 1 to 5 p.m. This year’s gathering takes on special significance as Seaford and communities across the nation commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The Seaford 9/11 Memorial honors five Seaford High School alumni who died that day — Thomas Haskell, Timothy Haskell, John Perry, Robert Sliwak and Michael Wittenstein — while carrying forward a message of remembrance, service and community. Held the day after Seaford High School’s homecoming, Oktoberfest is intended as both a fundraiser and an opportunity for Seaford alumni from all graduating classes, current and former residents, families and friends to reconnect with their hometown. The committee hopes to build Oktoberfest into an annual homecoming weekend tradition, bringing together Seaford alumni and the wider community in support of the memorial and its mission. The event will feature an open bar and buffet, music and entertainment, raffles and an auction. The committee’s limited-edition

Holden Leeds/Herald file

At the Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee Oktoberfest, attendees can expect a variety of entertainment, including raffles and an auction. 25th anniversary commemorative coin will also be available for purchase. Admission is $65 for adults, $35 for ages 6 to 20 and free for children 5 and younger. Advance admission may be purchased through Venmo at @SHS_911_MemorialFund, with cash or by check payable to 9/11 SHS Memorial Fund and mailed to P.O. Box

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2425, Seaford, NY 11783. Purchasers should include their name and the number of tickets requested. Credit cards, Venmo, checks and cash will also be accepted at the door. For alumni who haven’t been back to Seaford in years, Oct. 18 offers another reason to come home — to reconnect with old friends and classmates while helping ensure

that the community continues to remember its five alumni and all those who died in the Sept. 11 attacks. The third annual Seaford 9/11 Memorial Oktoberfest will take place Sunday, Oct. 18, at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. For more information, visit Seaford911.org.

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Hochul declares emergency over measles cases By JEFF BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency in response to a growing number of measles cases in rural areas of New York and neighboring states. The executive order is intended to allow the state to respond more quickly to the outbreak and expand access to measles vaccinations and testing. T he order expands the pool of health care professionals who can administer measles, mumps and rubella vaccines to include paramedics, advanced emergency medical services providers, pharmacists and midwives. It also allows nurses, in addition to physicians, to order measles testing. “After reviewing the latest data on measles cases in New York State, I am declaring a State Disaster Emergency to strengthen our ongoing efforts to confront this disease,” Hochul said in a news release from Oct. 6. “No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease.” Hochul also said she received her seasonal flu vaccine on Oct. 6 and urged New Yorkers to get their flu shots. She directed the state’s Department of Health to provide regular public notifications and resources throughout the flu season. State Health Commissioner Dr.

Courtesy Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul

Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency on Oct. 6 in response to a growing number of measles cases in rural areas of New York and nearby states. James McDonald said the department is working with local health departments and regional partners to track and contain measles cases. “The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is the best protection — protecting nearly all people against disease who receive the recommended doses,” McDonald said in the release, which urged New Yorkers to check their vaccination status and health care providers to be prepared to iden-

tify and treat measles cases. As of Oct. 3, New York had recorded 108 confirmed measles cases this year, including seven in New York City and 101 elsewhere in the state. Since July 15, 92 cases have been reported among under-immunized, rural communities in 18 counties. Local health departments have administered more than 1,000 doses of the MMR vaccine in rural areas since then. The state’s response includes clini-

cal education and guidance for health care providers, epidemiological support for case investigations and contact tracing, expedited laboratory testing, vaccine distribution and community outreach. The Department of Health also is providing data analysis and culturally appropriate immunization education to local health departments. New York launched a measles dashboard that allows residents and health care officials to track local health risks and monitor the spread of the disease. Health officials are continuing monitoring and investig ation ef for ts, including contact tracing, to help prevent additional infections. Re s i d e n t s c o n t a c t e d by p u bl i c health of ficials are encouraged to respond so officials can provide information and take steps to limit the spread of the disease. State officials urged New Yorkers to make sure they are up to date on their MMR vaccinations and to pay attention to health advisories, particularly when traveling with unvaccinated people, including young children. Infants between 6 and 11 months old can receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine before international travel or if they otherwise face an increased risk of exposure, according to health officials.

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October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

Fredericks seeks a seat at the table in Albany jvallone@liherald.com

Shannon Fredericks always felt destined to end up in politics. The 29-year-old from Seaford recalled sitting on her grandfather’s lap as a child, reading The New York Times, and learning to circle the important news of the edition. Now, years later, Fredericks is making her first run for public office, seeking the open seat for State Assembly District 14. “As someone who is very talkative, very much a people person, this is a good spot for me to be in,” Fredericks, a Republican, told Herald reporters at a roundtable interview. While it may be her first time running for office, Fredericks has spent years working in the political world. A graduate of the University of Delaware with a degree in international relations, she spent some time fundraising for a think tank called the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. She went on to attend graduate school at St. John’s University, before landing a job with State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick’s office. Fredericks was later tapped for a larger role with the GOP conference as a Nassau County regional coordinator. All of her work thus far, Fredericks said, has prepared her to step into the role herself, should she win the election bid in November. “It’s definitely a benefit that I have spent some time working for the state legislature, even though I was based here,” she said. “I like to be involved, and I like to know what’s going on. I would try, at least once a month, to go up during session.” Affordability is a top concern she’s hearing from

14 th ASSEMBLY DISTRICT

Jeff Bessen/Herald

Shannon Fredericks, the Republican candidate for the 14th Assembly District, discussed a range of issues during a roundtable interview with Herald reporters. voters, and with that, Fredericks feels she has a unique perspective. Having spent time in Albany, elected officials on both side of the aisle often talk about making New York “great” for their children and grandchildren, she said. “In a lot of cases, I’m the same age as that child or even grandchild,” she added. “Let my voice be at that table.” Referencing the state budget increases over the last few years, Fredericks said there needs to be a more sensible approach to spending.

“There are definitely ways that we can evaluate how we’re spending our money before we continue to increase taxes,” she explained. On public safety, Fredericks was critical of policies like cashless bail, adding that everyone wants “a safe community.” “I think having policies come out of Albany to allow that to continue is definitely a priority,” she said. Fredericks also believes she has a strong approach to working across the aisle. “Everything I do, I try to go with grace, be humble, be kind — because again, we’re all trying to make New York a better place,” she said. “I am the type of person, who, if I’m given a task, I’m going to complete that task. And if I have to work with people across the aisle… let’s get it done.” She wants voters to embrace the energy and enthusiasm she has while on the campaign trail. “I will represent all members of the 14th Assembly District,” she said. “I want to hear it all because I can only do my job to the best of my ability if I have that information. I want to be a member of the people and serve the people.” John Brooks, the Democratic candidate for the 14th Assembly District, did not respond to the Herald’s request for interview.

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WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

By JORDAN VALLONE

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

Stu Goldman/Herald photos

Teams held up flowers during a Promise Garden ceremony, representing why they were walking.

For D’Accordo, the Alzheimer’s walk is a ‘group hug’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

brought together families, caregivers and advocates. More than 426,000 New Yorkers are living with Alzheimer’s, including an estimated 61,800 Long Island residents age 65 and older, according to the association. “The funds raised will help fuel disease research while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia,” Tinamarie Hardekopf, the chapter’s senior director of development, said. During the walk’s Promise Garden ceremony, participants held flowers whose colors represented their connections to Alzheimer’s — whether they were living with the disease, caring for someone, remembering a loved one or supporting the cause. “When you’re at the event and everyone kind of holds up their flower one by one, then you can see how everyone is affected by this in some way or another,” Alyssa Ramirez, the walk’s executive event vice chair, said. Ramirez walks for her grandmother, who is living with dementia.

“Walk to End Alzheimer’s gives me the opportunity to honor my grandmother, while supporting my family, raising awareness and helping create a future where no family has to experience the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s,” she said. “I walk for her and for everyone whose lives have been touched by this disease.” For D’Accordo, that shared understanding is part of what makes the gathering meaningful. “Everybody’s supporting each other,” he said before the walk. “Everybody’s at a different stage of their journey with their loved ones, and they really need each other. It’s really cathartic, and it’s really helpful to be there.” D’Accordo’s reason for encouraging others to contribute is rooted in what his family endured. “To watch people not remember simple things, not know what day it is, what time it is or who their family members are, it’s really difficult,” he said. “Why should someone contribute? To hopefully put an end to this.” Donations will be accepted through Dec. 31 at Act.ALZ.org/Nassau.

Walkers wrote names of loved ones on a tribute wall. Freeport Merrick Rotary Club members Barry and Crystal McDaniel took part in this year’s walk, which brought in $300,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Participants heard from Tinamarie Hardekopf, senior director of development for the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island chapter.

Furer and Como seek science careers after H.S. also serves as president of Model Congress and played varsity tennis for four years, earning team MVP honors twice. In addition, she plays the violin in the school orchestra and belongs to several honor societies. Her interest in science grew through Science Olympiad, which she joined as a freshman. She credited its adviser, Rich Colavita, with helping spark her enthusiasm for the subject. “It’s just a very good environment for fostering learning,” Furer said, describing the motivation she found among her fellow club members. She also spent the past two summers conducting research at the Zeglis Laboratory at Hunter College in Manhattan. She was part of a team that authored a paper published in a Royal Society of Chemistry journal. Furer said she hoped to study neuroscience in college, with a particular interest in cognitive neuroscience. She is considering either attending medical school, with the goal of becoming a psychiatrist, or a career in academic research. When asked what she most wanted her classmates to remember about her, she did not point to her grades or scientific achievements. “Above all, people remember me as being kind,” she said. “I just want people to remember me as being empathetic or understanding, instead of just, like, my grades.” Furer said balancing schoolwork with her health was among her biggest challenges in high school. At times, assignments came at the expense of sleep, while stress affected her immune system, she said. Learning to put her health first ultimately helped her in the long run, she added. For Como, the challenge was managing his own expectations. “I always had really high expectations for myself,” he said, describing the pressure he felt not to disappoint himself. Como completed 16 AP courses and plans to study biomedical engineering, potentially pursuing a career with a company that develops medical technology. He conducted eye-tracking research at Hofstra University over the summer and is considering earning a Master of

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Photos courtesy Wantagh School District

Lauren Furer is Wantagh High School’s valedictorian for 2027. Matthew Como was named the salutatorian. Business Administration degree. Outside the classroom, he has balanced three varsity sports — cross country, swimming and lacrosse — with an equally active music schedule. He plays trombone in the jazz and brass ensembles and marching band, serves as copresident of the band council and has earned All-County honors. His band directors, Danilo Aviles and Christopher Cockren, have made a lasting impression by encouraging him to improve as a musician while supporting him as a person, he said. “They’re always very positive,” Como said. “They really care about me as a person.” One of his favorite memories was winning the conference championship with the swim team last year, his first season as a co-captain. After losing about 15 seniors, the team had to rebuild, making the achievement particularly meaningful. “I just felt really proud of the team,” Como said. He expressed hope that his classmates remember him as someone who made friends, included others in activities, and tried to make high school bet-

ter for the people around him. Both students have volunteered with the Wantagh Library’s summer reading program, and Furer has been involved in environmental cleanups while Como’s interests have included being a hospital volunteer and lifeguard. Paul Guzzone, principal at Wantagh High School, praised the two students

for combining academic ambition with commitments to their school and community. “They put a lot of time and effort into getting to this point,” Guzzone said. “What’s important to remember is not necessarily the GPAs that they got. It’s that work ethic that they have and their commitment to achieve at a high level.”

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STEPPING OUT

Courtesy Mike Pollock Courtesy Schirmer Theatrical

There’s something strange in the neighborhood … “Ghostbusters returns to the big screen.”

Jack o’lanterns illuminate the season, hand carved to perfection.

The spirits are stirring Cue the season of spooks

By Karen Bloom

he nights are getting longer, the pumpkins are glowing and Halloween is officially in the air. It’s time to embrace the spooky season. Let’s get started! Follow the glow: The Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns Pumpkin patches have their moment. But a pumpkin trail? Now that’s a Halloween tradition worth following. This fall, the wooded grounds of Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts in Wheatley Heights once again become a glowing autumn wonderland for The Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns. The 4,200-foot loop winds through the property, surrounded by more than 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins and illuminated objects — 10,000 glowing elements in all — creating a dazzling nighttime spectacle that feels part art show, part Halloween celebration and part magical mystery tour. Now in its 13th season on Long Island, Rise has become a seasonal favorite for families, pumpkin enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a little October magic. Along the trail, pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and personalities light the way, joined by colorful inflatables and other illuminated creations. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s even a spot to stop and show off your dance moves, complete with disco lights and music. Because what Halloween adventure would be complete without a little dancing? Longtime fans may remember Rise from its first eight seasons at Old Westbury Gardens. Its current home at Usdan offers something new: a longer trail that allows visitors to wander deeper into the woods and enjoy a more immersive experience. “We found this trail to be perfect,” says Mike Pollock, executive producer of Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns. “The entire trail is wooded, which allows us to deliver the most gorgeous show we’ve ever done! The trail is longer than in the past so your experience will be longer! This is the spookiest walk on Long Island.” Spooky, yes. Frightening, no. There are no creatures lurking in the shadows, no actors

jumping out along the path and no surprise scares. As Pollock puts it simply: “No scares.” Instead, the magic comes from the pumpkins themselves. A team of 100 handpicked artists carves each one individually, giving the jack o’lanterns an impressive range of personalities and expressions — from eerie and sinister to goofy and downright adorable. Taken together, the thousands of glowing creations turn the trail into an enormous outdoor gallery of Halloween art. The spectacle certainly has a following. About 40,000 visitors make their way through the trail each year, taking in the glowing pumpkins, snapping photos and soaking up the sights, sounds and spirit of the season. Walk at your own pace — it takes anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour and 15 minutes — to enjoy it all. “The artistry of these pumpkins is spectacular and you will not see anywhere else,” Pollock adds. So grab a sweater, gather the family and follow the glow. The Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns is open weekends and select weeknights through Nov. 1. Tickets must be purchased online at jackolanterns. com; no tickets are available on site. The trail is located at 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights. Ready for some slime? Who ya gonna call? Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, of course. The LIU Post campus gets a serious dose of supernatural fun when Ghostbusters in Concert arrives Sept. 20 at 6:30 p.m., bringing the beloved 1984 comedy classic to the big screen — with a live orchestra, plenty of ’80s nostalgia and a whole lot of Halloween spirit. The film screening may be the highlight, but Families are encouraged to arrive at 4:30 p.m. for Halloween-themed festivities in the Goldsmith Atrium. Expect ’80s hits performed live, a costume contest judged by the Tilles Cabaret Company — made up of LIU musical theater students — plus prizes, photo opportunities, snacks and plenty of chances to get into the spirit before the ghosts take over. And yes, there will be an Ectomobile. An on-site replica of the Ghostbusters’ iconic vehicle will be on display, courtesy of Roger Browner, vice president of Hicksville-based AutoMat Custom & Restoration. It’s the perfect backdrop for a family photo before heading into the main event. Adding another special touch, guests can meet the Long Island Ghostbusters, a cosplay charity group appearing on behalf of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. Bellmore resident and Ghostbusters actor Joe Cirillo will also be on hand. Cirillo, who spent 20 years as an NYPD officer before launching a second career in film, was originally scouted by director Mike Nichols. That eventually led to his role as the Police Captain in the original “Ghostbusters” — his on-screen debut. He went on to portray numerous police officers and authority figures on screen, operate film security companies and publish his autobiography. Then it’s time to cue the proton packs. The classic “Ghostbusters” starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and the rest of the unforgettable crew, is presented on a large HD cinema screen, synchronized with a live performance of Academy Award-winning composer Elmer Bernstein’s score. The result promises to be a larger-than-life way to experience the comedy, ghosts and supernatural mayhem of the classic film. Costumes are not just welcome — they’re encouraged. Those hoping to compete in the costume contest should arrive and register by 5:30 p.m.; everyone else can simply come dressed for the occasion and enjoy the festivities. So grab your proton pack, perfect your best ’80s look and get ready for some supernatural fun. Visit tillescenter.org for tickets and more. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Pianist Emanuel Ax joins the adventurous chamber orchestra for a spirited program of Mozart concertos and more, opening with the overture to Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges’s L’amant anonyme. From there, Ax takes center stage in Mozart’s Piano Concertos Nos. 17 and 25 — two contrasting works that showcase his melodic brilliance, expressive depth and wit. The Knights bring their signature sense of camaraderie and discovery to repertoire. Founded by violinist Colin Jacobsen and cellist Eric Jacobsen after late-night chambermusic sessions with friends, the ensemble has built a reputation for breaking down the barriers between performers and audiences.

Sunday, Oct. 18, 3 p.m. Tickets available at tillescenter.org. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Daughtry 20 Years Unplugged Experience Daughtry’s catalogue in a stripped-back acoustic setting, reframing the songs that have soundtracked arenas, rock radio milestones, and some of the most deﬁning moments of the band’s career. Their lastest tour follows the release of “Shock To The System,” the complete edition of Daughtry’s two-part project via Big Machine Rock. For an artist whose songs have always lived at the intersection of power and vulnerability, 20 Years Unplugged sees Daughtry strip down some of their biggest and most meaningful tracks, distilling them to their purest form and bringing fans closer to the songs and unmistakable voice that carried the band through two decades of connection, evolution, and success.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

The Knights with Emanuel Ax

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

Your Neighborhood OCT

Annual Country Fair

CALENDAR

of their weekly rehearsals. Come listen, meet the chorus, and — if you’d like — join in and sing. No musical experience is necessary, just a love of singing and a desire to have fun making music together.

Christ Lutheran Church hosts its 30th annual Country Fair, featuring two days of shopping, food and community activities. Visitors can browse raffle baskets, Christmas gifts and décor, boutique accessories and costume jewelry, while refreshments will be available at the church café. The fair also includes the annual “Cookie Walk” on Saturday, a “Tool Time” table and sale, and deals at the church’s thrift shop. Proceeds will support the church’s ministries as well as the Interfaith Nutrition Network, Lutheran Disaster Relief, Tunnel to Towers Foundation and USO. Held rain or shine.

• Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 231 Jackson Ave, Syosset • When: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. • Contact: Call: Rich, (516) 5214779, or Dennis, (516) 680-8036, or visit longislandharmonizers.org

OCT

• Where: Christ Lutheran Church, 3384 Island Road, Wantagh • Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., also Oct. 17 • Contact: (516) 221-3286 or church@clcwantagh.org

OCT

Westbury House Tour For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “Secrets of the Service Wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required. • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: Noon-1 p.m., also Oct. 19, Oct. 21-23, Oct. 26, Oct. 28-29 • Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

OCT

Skating With Skeletons

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to come Monster Mash their way across the museum’s synthetic, indoor ice rink with a crew of skeletons friends —no skates required! This playful reimagining of the family favorite sock skating exhibit enables everyone to slip into the seasonal spirit. Opening weekend adds even more seasonal fun with Skate, Rattle & Roll and Cutest Pumpkin in the Patch. • Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City • Time: Ongoing, through Nov. 1 • Contact: licm.org or (516) 2245800

‘The Song of the Cello’ Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of chamber music.

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

Anthony Rodia

Anthony Rodia is back with his “Insanely Funny” tour, an all-new stand-up showcase packed with sharp observations, spot-on impressions and plenty of larger-than-life characters. Building on the success of his previous outing last year, this is his biggest and most ambitious yet, on the Paramount stage for two performances. A first-generation Italian-American raised in Westchester, Rodia discovered his knack for comedy early on. After dabbling in open mics in his 20s, he took a detour into the automotive world as a finance manager at a luxury car dealership. Then, in 2019, he took the leap back to comedy, leaving his day job to pursue stand-up full time. Drawing on family life, Italian-American culture, parenting and the everyday absurdities of modern life, Rodia has a knack for turning the familiar into the hilarious. His observational humor, self-deprecating • Where: The Paramount, 370 wit and uncanny impressions have made him a rising star, while his viral social media New York Ave., Huntington videos — including his wildly popular Uncle Vinny character — have introduced his • Time: 7 p.m. comedy to millions of fans. The result is a style that feels less like a performance and more • Contact: ticketmaster.com like hanging out with your funniest friend. or paramountny.com

Ensemble-in-residence Poetica Musica Quartet welcomes all to enjoy the rich, expressive tones of the cello. Renowned cellist Eugene Moye joins pianist Yasmin Alami for an evening of masterful performances featuring works by Brahms, Casals, Rachmaninoff, Mendelssohn, and others. The program includes Johannes Brahms’ Cello Sonata No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 38, Pablo Casals’ “The Song of the Birds,” Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Vocalise,” and additional selections celebrating the depth, warmth, and versatility of this beloved instrument. A pre-concert talk proceeds the concert at 7:30 p.m.; a Meet-the-Artists reception with light refreshments follows the concert in the West Porch. $30; $25 seniors and members. • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 8-9:30 p.m. • Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

‘Uncle Vlad’s Pumpkin Patch: The Vladuation’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to share in the museum’s Halloween theatrical tradition. Uncle Vlad’s nephew Chad is getting ready to graduate from Boo-niversity, but needs to pass his final horror merit badge tests. Join Uncle Vlad, Gargamel the Rat, Great Aunt Margarine, Johnny Bones,

Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah

and the whole spooky crew in a celebration of the pumpkin patch’s youngest bat. The Vlad team returns to the stage with another original production, now in its fifth year. Each year presents a different story with some familiar and some new kooky and creepy faces, making the shows a puppet-filled treat for anyone who likes some tricks! $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.

drinking, and free for children 5 and younger.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City • Time: 11 a. m. and 1 p.m., also Oct. 18, Oct. 24-25 and Oct. 31 • Contact: licm.org or (516) 2245800

The Jones Beach Power Squadron offers a free New York State-certified America’s Boating Course (ABC) at Wantagh Park. Open to boaters and anyone interested in learning more about safe and responsible boating.

OCT

Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee Oktoberfest

The Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee hosts its third annual Oktoberfest, bringing the Seaford community together for an afternoon of food, music and festivities. With an open bar and buffet, live music, raffles, an auction, and more. The event is open to the community and organizers hope to continue building it as an annual gathering for Seaford alumni and residents. Proceeds support the Seaford High School 9/11 Memorial Fund. $65 per person, $35 for guests ages 6 to 21 who will not be

• Where: Mulcahy’s, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh • Contact: Lynda Schachner, lschachner@seaford911.org

OCT

Boating certification course

• Where: 1 King Road, Wantagh • Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m., also Oct. 27, Nov. 3, Nov.10.. • Contact: P/C Ed Figueroa, AP-ACN, at (516) 816-4919 or capted36@gmail.com for registration and more

Harmonize with Long Island Harmonizers Love to sing? So do the Long Island Harmonizers. The Barbershop Harmony Society chapter is a chorus of more than 20 singers, now welcoming new members. The ensemble performs four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, entertaining audiences at local events. All are welcome to visit one

OCT

Game time

Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution. • Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh • Time: Noon-4 p.m. • Contact: mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or (516) 785-2445

NOV The 27th Annual Long Island Jolson Festival

Society President Jan Hernstat invites all to participate in the annual tribute to Al Jolson, rescheduled. With Ed Greenbaum’s unique outtakes from “The Jolson Story, Noah Diamond as Grouch Marx, comedian Jeff Greenberg, with Tony Babino’s “The Heart of Al Jolson, and more. Tickets are $54.95. • Where: Lambrou’s Catering Hall, 4073 Austin Blvd., Island Park • Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Contact: Jan Hernstat at (516) 678-3524

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.

HERALD

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liherald.com/legals LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE REUNIÓN ESPECIAL DEL DISTRITO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR WANTAGH UNION FREE, EN EL CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK SE EMITE NOTIFICACIÓN de que, conforme a una resolución de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva York, adoptada el 24 de septiembre de 2026, se celebrará una Reunión Especial del Distrito de los votantes cualificados de dicho distrito el Martes, 1 de diciembre de 2026 de 7:00 a 9:00 p.m. (hora predominante) en los siguientes lugares de votación: Mandalay Elementary School, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York, para las personas que residen en el Distrito Electoral nº 1; Wantagh Elementary School, 1765 Beech Street, Wantagh, Nueva York, para las personas que residen en el Distrito Electoral Nº 2; y Forest Lake Elementary School, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York, para quienes residan en el Distrito Electoral Nº 3; con el fin de votar sobre las siguientes Proposiciones: PROPUESTA DE BONOS RESUELTO: (a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva York (el "Distrito"), está autorizada para realizar modificaciones y mejoras en los edificios y/o sitios del Distrito (el "Proyecto"), sustancialmente tal y como se describe en un plan preparado por el Distrito con la ayuda de Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, (el "Plan"), cuyo plan está archivado y disponible para inspección pública en la oficina del Subsuperintendente de Negocios; dicho proyecto incluye la construcción de ampliaciones para proporcionar espacio adicional para aulas, deportes, banda y coro; reconstrucción interior y reconfiguración del espacio; mejoras en seguridad/protección, renovaciones de baños;

seguridad/protección, renovaciones de baños; sistemas de fontanería y riego; reemplazo de ventanas; pavimentación y trabajos de asfalto en todo el distrito; mejoras en campos deportivos y recreación/parques infantiles y la construcción de un edificio de mantenimiento, edificio deportivo y estación de confort; todo lo anterior incluirá el mobiliario original, equipo, maquinaria, aparatos y demoliciones, obras auxiliares o relacionadas con los mismos trabajos requeridos en relación con ello; y para gastar para ello, incluyendo los costes preliminares y los costes relacionados con la financiación, una cantidad que no exceda el coste máximo estimado de 69.850.000 dólares; siempre que los costes estimados de los componentes del Proyecto tal como se detallan en el Plan puedan reasignarse entre dichos componentes si la Junta de Educación determina que dicha reasignación es en el mejor interés del Distrito; (b) que se vota un impuesto por la presente por la cantidad total de no exceso de $69,850,000 para financiar dicho coste, dicho impuesto que se recaudará y recaude en cuotas en los años y en las cantidades que determine dicha Junta de Educación; y (c) que, en anticipación a dicho impuesto, se autoriza la emisión de bonos del Distrito por un importe principal total no superior a $69,850,000 y se vota un impuesto para pagar los intereses sobre dichos bonos que se hagan vencidos y deberán. PROPUESTA DE GASTO DEL FONDO DE RESERVA DE CAPITAL RESUELTO: (a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva York, (el "Distrito"), está autorizada a completar el proyecto de ventanas de la Escuela Media y las mejoras HVAC de la Escuela Secundaria, incluyendo mejoras del sitio, mobiliario, equipos, aparatos, maquinaria, demolición y otros trabajos o mejoras incidentales

PUBLIC NOTICES mejoras incidentales necesarias en relación con ello, y para gastar para ello, incluyendo los costes preliminares y los costes relacionados con la financiación, una cantidad que no exceda el coste estimado de 1.300.000 dólares (incluidos los intereses acumulados); y (b) que la cantidad de $1,300,000 (incluidos los intereses acumulados) del Fondo de Reserva de Capital del Distrito, establecido por los votantes del Distrito el 21 de mayo de 2024, queda autorizada a ser gastada para cubrir el coste de dicho fin, y dicho gasto queda aprobado. Dichas Proposiciones aparecerán en las papeletas utilizadas para votar en dicha Reunión special de Distrito, en las siguientes formas condensadas: PROPUESTA BONOS SÍ NO

RESUELTO: Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva York (el "Distrito"), está autorizada a construir modificaciones y mejoras en los edificios y/o sitios del Distrito, sustancialmente según lo descrito en un plan preparado por el Distrito con la ayuda de Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, y para gastar para ello una cantidad que no exceda el coste máximo estimado de 69.850.000 dólares; (b) que se vota un impuesto por la suma total de no exceso de 69.850.000 dólares para financiar dicho coste, dicho impuesto que se recaudará y recaudará en plazos en los años y cantidades que determine dicha Junta de Educación; y (c) que, anticipando dicho impuesto, se autorizan por la presente la emisión de bonos del Distrito por un importe principal total no superior a $69,850,000 y se vota un impuesto para pagar los intereses sobre dichos bonos que se hagan vencidos y pagarán. PROPUESTA DE GASTO DEL FONDO DE RESERVA DE CAPITAL SÍ NO RESUELTO: (a) Que la Junta de

(a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva York, (el "Distrito"), está autorizada a completar el proyecto de ventanas de la Escuela Media y las mejoras HVAC de la Escuela Secundaria, incluyendo mejoras del sitio, mobiliario, equipos, aparatos, maquinaria, demolición y otros trabajos o mejoras incidentales necesarias en relación con ello, y para gastar para ello, incluyendo los costes preliminares y los costes relacionados con la financiación, una cantidad que no exceda el coste estimado de 1.300.000 dólares (incluidos los intereses acumulados); y (b) que la cantidad de $1,300,000 (incluidos los intereses acumulados) del Fondo de Reserva de Capital del Distrito, establecido por los votantes del Distrito el 21 de mayo de 2024, queda autorizada a ser gastada para cubrir el coste de dicho fin, y dicho gasto queda aprobado. La votación se realizará por votación según lo previsto en la Ley de Educación y las urnas permanecerán abiertas de 7:00 a 9:00 p.m. (hora vigente) y durante el tiempo necesario para que los votantes presentes puedan emitir su voto. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que el registro personal de los votantes es obligatorio conforme al §2014 de la Ley de Educación o conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante se ha registrado previamente conforme al §2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial de distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años naturales, es elegible para votar en esta Asamblea Especial del Distrito. Si un votante está registrado y elegible para votar conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, también es elegible para votar en esta Asamblea Especial del Distrito. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. El registro se realizará con el fin de registrar a todos los votantes cualificados del Distrito conforme al §2014 de la Ley de Educación hasta el miércoles 25 de noviembre de 2026,

noviembre de 2026, entre las 8:00 y las 16:00 horas (hora vigente), en todos los días regulares en que la oficina del Secretario del Distrito esté en funcionamiento, ubicada en el Edificio de Administración, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho registro, siempre que en ese momento se sepa o se demuestre que tiene derecho a votar en la Reunión Especial del Distrito para la que se prepare el registro. La Junta de Registro también se reunirá con el propósito de registrar a todos los votantes cualificados del Distrito conforme al §2014 de la Ley de Educación el sábado 21 de noviembre de 2026, entre las 9:00 y la 1:00 p.m. (hora vigente), en las Oficinas Administrativas, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York, para añadir cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilice en dicha Asamblea Especial de Distrito, momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en la Reunión Especial del Distrito para la que se prepare el registro. El último día para registrarse será el miércoles 25 de noviembre de 2026. El registro así preparado conforme al §2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, y estará abierto para inspección por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito a partir del miércoles 25 de noviembre de 2026, entre las 9:00 y la 1:00 p.m. (hora vigente), entre semana y cada día anterior al día fijado para la Reunión Especial del Distrito, excepto jueves y domingos, y el viernes 27 de noviembre de 2026 y el sábado 28 de noviembre de 2026 solo con cita previa. El registro de los votantes cualificados de dicho distrito escolar preparado para la Reunión Anual y Elección del Distrito

Elección del Distrito celebrada el 19 de mayo de 2026 será utilizado por la Junta de Registro como base para la preparación del registro para dicha Reunión Especial del Distrito que se celebrará el 1 de diciembre de 2026. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados en el Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union solicitando y enviando una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, por correo postal a 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, por correo electrónico a mcguigane@wantaghschools.org o por fax al (516) 765-4154. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 5 de noviembre de 2026. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Wantagh Union podrán solicitar una solicitud de papeleta militar al Secretario del Distrito en persona, por correo postal a 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793, por correo electrónico a mcguigane@wantaghschools.org, o por fax enviado al (516) 765-4154. En dicha solicitud, el votante militar podrá indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Un votante militar debe devolver la solicitud original de la papeleta militar por correo postal o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. Para que un votante militar reciba una papeleta militar, una solicitud válida debe recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 5 de noviembre de 2026. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas conforme a lo anterior se tramitarán de la misma manera que

For additional assistance call 516-569-4000 ext. 232 DEADLINE: Firday evening, 5:00pm Last minute notices: 9am on Monday morning

de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta no militar conforme a la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de papeleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que la papeleta militar original de un votante militar debe ser devolvida por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. Las papeletas militares serán examinadas si son recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 1 de diciembre de 2026 que muestren una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o que muestren una avalación fechada de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas no más tarde de las 17:00 horas del 1 de diciembre de 2026 y firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se determine no posterior al día anterior a la elección. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que las solicitudes para papeletas por correo y por correo anticipado estarán disponibles durante el horario laboral escolar por parte del Secretario del Distrito. Las solicitudes completadas no pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del 2 de noviembre de 2026, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de voto por correo o por correo anticipado. Las papeletas por correo y por correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) del martes 1 de diciembre de 2026. Una lista de personas a las que se hayan emitido

las que se hayan emitido papeletas de voto por correo, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se hayan emitido papeletas anticipadas de votación por correo, estará disponible para su inspección para votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del miércoles 25 de noviembre de 2026, entre las 8:00 y las 16:00 horas de los días laborables previos al día fijado para dicha reunión especial del distrito, excepto el jueves y el 1 de diciembre de 2026, el día fijado para dicha reunión especial del distrito. Cualquier votante cualificado podrá, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las cualificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dichas listas, exponiendo los motivos de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o un designado de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores electorales en el día fijado para dicha reunión especial del distrito. Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que se han establecido Distritos Electorales en el Distrito Escolar. Los límites de los Distritos Electorales, adoptados por resolución de la Junta de Educación, y el lugar de votación en cada distrito electoral serán los siguientes: DISTRITO ELECTORAL Nº 1 - Todos los votantes que residen al sur de Sunrise Highway votan en la escuela primaria Mandalay, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. DISTRITO ELECTORAL Nº 2 - Todos los votantes que residen al norte de Sunrise Highway y al este de Wantagh Parkway votan en la escuela primaria de Wantagh, 1765 Beech Street, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. DISTRITO ELECTORAL Nº 3 - Todos los votantes que residan al norte de Sunrise Highway y al oeste de Wantagh Parkway, voten en la escuela primaria Forest Lake, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York 11793. Solo se permitirá votar

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

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October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

liherald.com/legals and use our convienient portal. Solo se permitirá votar los votantes debidamente inscritos. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre dicha reunión especial del distrito en español deben contactar con la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el (516) 765-4103. POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN Fecha: 24 de septiembre de 2026 ELAINE MCGUIGAN Secretario de distrito LEGAL NOTICE 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 8, 2015, and amended on September 12, 2025, 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 October 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM, 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: September 10, 2026 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 162454 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 76-2026 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the

Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of October 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 76-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 76-2026, to amend Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal "REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS" to limit parking at various locations. Dated: October 5, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 77-2026 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of October 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 77-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 77-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations. Dated: October 5, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 78-2026 PLEASE

TAKE

PUBLIC NOTICES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of October 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 78-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 78-2026, to amend Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations. Dated: October 5, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING OF THE WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, IN THE COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York, adopted on September 24, 2026, a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of said School District will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2026 from 7:00 o'clock A.M. to 9:00 o'clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) at the following voting places: Mandalay Elementary School, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, New York, for those persons residing in Election District No. 1; Wantagh Elementary School, 1765 Beech Street, Wantagh, New York, for those persons residing in Election District No. 2; and Forest Lake Elementary School, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York, for those persons residing in Election District No. 3; for the purpose of voting upon the following Propositions: BOND PROPOSITION

BOND PROPOSITION RESOLVED: (a) That the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the "District"), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to District buildings and/or sites (the "Project"), substantially as described in a plan prepared by the District with the assistance of Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, (the "Plan"), which plan is on file and available for public inspection at the office of the Assistant Superintendent for Business; such Project including the construction of building additions to provide additional classroom, athletic, band and choir space; interior reconstruction and space reconfiguration; improvements to safety/security, bathroom renovations; plumbing and irrigation systems; window replacements; District-wide asphalt paving and curb work; athletic field and recreation/playground improvements and the construction of a maintenance building, athletic recreation building, and comfort station; all of the foregoing to include original furnishings, equipment, machinery, apparatus and ancillary or related demolition, site and other work required in connection therewith; and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated maximum cost of $69,850,000; provided that the estimated costs of the components of the Project as set forth in detail in the Plan may be reallocated among such components if the Board of Education shall determine that such reallocation is in the best interests of the District; (b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $69,850,000 to finance such cost, such tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and (c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued

District are hereby authorized to be issued in the aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $69,850,000 and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable. CAPITAL RESERVE FUND EXPENDITURE PROPOSITION RESOLVED: (a) That the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York, (the "District"), is hereby authorized to complete the Middle School window project and High School HVAC upgrades, including site improvements, furnishings, equipment, apparatus, machinery, demolition and other incidental work or improvements required in connection therewith, and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated cost of $1,300,000 (including accrued interest); and (b) that the amount of $1,300,000 (including accrued interest) from the District's Capital Reserve Fund, established by the voters of the District on May 21, 2024, is hereby authorized to be expended to pay the cost of such purpose, and such expenditure is hereby approved. Such Propositions shall appear on the ballots used for voting at said Special District Meeting in substantially the following condensed forms: BOND PROPOSITION YES NO RESOLVED: (a) That the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the "District"), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to District buildings and/or sites, substantially as described in a plan prepared by the District with the assistance of Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, and to expend therefor an amount not to exceed the estimated maximum cost of $69,850,000; (b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $69,850,000 to finance such cost, such tax to be levied and collected in installments in such

levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and (c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $69,850,000 and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable. CAPITAL RESERVE FUND EXPENDITURE PROPOSITION YES NO RESOLVED: (a) That the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York, (the "District"), is hereby authorized to complete the Middle School window project and High School HVAC upgrades, including site improvements, furnishings, equipment, apparatus, machinery, demolition and other incidental work or improvements required in connection therewith, and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated cost of $1,300,000 (including accrued interest); and (b) that the amount of $1,300,000 (including accrued interest) from the District's Capital Reserve Fund, established by the voters of the District on May 21, 2024, is hereby authorized to be expended to pay the cost of such purpose, and such expenditure is hereby approved. The voting will be conducted by ballot as provided in the Education Law and the polls will remain open from 7:00 o'clock A.M. to 9:00 o'clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar years,

For additional assistance call 516-569-4000 ext. 232 DEADLINE: Firday evening, 5:00pm Last minute notices: 9am on Monday morning

meeting within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this Special District Meeting. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this Special District Meeting. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Registration shall be conducted for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law through Wednesday, November 25, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 o'clock A.M. and 4:00 o'clock P.M., (Prevailing Time), on all regular days during which the office of the District Clerk is in operation, located in the Administration Building, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such register, provided that at such time he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said District Clerk to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such Special District Meeting for which the register is prepared. The Board of Registration will also meet for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law on Saturday, November 21, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 o'clock A.M. and 1:00 o'clock P.M., (Prevailing Time), at the Administrative Offices, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York, to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid Special District Meeting, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of said Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such Special District Meeting for which the register is prepared. The last day to register shall be Wednesday, November 25, 2026. The register so prepared pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, and will be open for inspection by

11793, and will be open for inspection by anyqualified voter of the District beginning on Wednesday, November 25, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 o'clock A.M. and 1:00 o'clock P.M., (Prevailing Time), on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the Special District Meeting, except Thursday and Sunday, and on Friday, November 27, 2026 and Saturday, November 28, 2026 by appointment only. The register of the qualified voters of said School District prepared for the Annual District Meeting and Election held on May 19, 2026 shall be used by the Board of Registration as the basis for the preparation of the register for said Special District Meeting to be held on December 1, 2026. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Wantagh Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, by mail to 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, by email to mcguigane@wantaghschools.org or fax sent to (516) 765-4154. The request for the registration application may include the military voter's preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 o'clock P.M. on November 5, 2026. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Wantagh Union Free School District, may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk in person, by mail to 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793, by email to mcguigane@wantaghschools.org, or fax sent to (516) 765-4154. In such request, the military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at

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AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a military voter's original military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on December 1, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country's postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 o'clock P.M. on December 1, 2026 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk. Completed applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than November 2, 2026, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 o'clock P.M., (Prevailing Time),

later than 5:00 o'clock P.M., (Prevailing Time), on Tuesday, December 1, 2026. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter's ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after Wednesday, November 25, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 o'clock A.M. and 4:00 o'clock P.M. on weekdays prior to the day set for said Special District Meeting, except Thursday, and December 1, 2026, on the day set for said Special District Meeting. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on the day set for said Special District Meeting. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that Election Districts have been established in the School District. The boundaries of the Election Districts, as adopted by resolution of the Board of Education, and the place in each election district for voting shall be as follows: ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 1 - All voters who reside south of Sunrise Highway vote at the Mandalay Elementary School, 2667 Bayview Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 2 - All voters who reside north of Sunrise Highway and East of Wantagh Parkway vote at the Wantagh Elementary School, 1765 Beech Street Wantagh, New York 11793. ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 3 - All voters who reside north of Sunrise Highway and West of Wantagh Parkway, vote at the Forest Lake Elementary School, 3100 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. Only qualified voters who are duly registered will be permitted to vote.

will be permitted to vote. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding said Special District Meeting in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at (516) 765-4103. BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION Dated: September 24, 2026 ELAINE MCGUIGAN District Clerk LEGAL NOTICE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation 1. Publication Title: WANTAGH HERALD. 2. Publication No. 16790. 3. Filing Date: October 1, 2026. 4. Issue Frequency: Weekly. 5. No. of Issues Published Annually 52. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $52. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. 9 Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher: Richner Communications, Inc., Stuart Richner, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530. Editor: HUNTER FELLONOL, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. Managing Editor: JEFF BESSEN, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530. 10. Owner: Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530; Clifford Richner, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530; Stuart Richner, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None. 12 Not applicable. 13. Publication Title: WANTAGH HERALD. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September 17, 2026.

Circulation Data Below: September 17, 2026. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a. Total No. Copies: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 3000; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 2700. b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 10; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 10. (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 316; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 300. (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, and Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 1027; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 994. (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 0; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0. c. Total Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 1353; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 1304. d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (by Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 679; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 751. (2) Free or Nominal In-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 215; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0. (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 0; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0. (4) Free or Nominal

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICES person to the office of the District Clerk at 3301 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 o'clock P.M., on November 5, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter's preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email.

Courtesy Office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads

Residents in the 5th State Senate district can book an appointment for a free memory screening at an event later this month.

Free memory screening for district residents Residents in the 5th State Senate district will have the opportunity to attend a free memory screening event this month, thanks to a collaborate with the offices of State Sen. Steve Rhoads and Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker and t h e A l z h e i m e r ’s Fo u n d at i o n o f America’s Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center. T h e 5 th S tat e Se nat e di st ric t includes par ts of East Meadow, Wantagh, Seaford, Bellmore and Merrick. The event will take place Oct. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville. The screenings give residents an opportunity to take a proactive step in caring for their brain health. These simple, quick and noninvasive “healthy brain checkups” assess memory and other thinking skills through a brief series of questions or tasks. Although a screening does not diagnose a particular illness, it c a n i n d i c a t e wh e t h e r s o m e o n e

should speak with a physician about additional testing. Identifying potential memory concerns early can help i n d iv i d u a l s a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s address underlying conditions and connect with helpful infor mation and resources. “I encourage everyone to take a proactive step when it comes to their health and the health of their loved ones,” Rhoads said. “Just as we regularly get screenings for other parts of our bodies, it’s important to give our brains a checkup, too. We welcome everyone in our community to take advantage of this free service, ask questions, and take an important proactive ste p toward protecting their health and planning for the future.” Appointments are required, and space is limited. To schedule a screening, residents should call Rhoads’ district of fice at 516-8820630. —Jordan Vallone

HERALD

PUBLIC NOTICES Nearest to Filing Date, 0. (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 50; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 100. e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 944; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 851. f. Total Distribution: Average No. Copies

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 2297; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 2155. g. Copies Not Distributed: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 703; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 545. h. Total: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 3000; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 2700.

to Filing Date, 2700. i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 58.90%; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 60.51%. 16. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the October 15, 2026 issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Stuart Richner, Owner; Date: October 1, 2026. I certify that all information furnished

information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material information requested on the form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

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Help Wanted

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Appliance Srvc. / Repair

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MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@ liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

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Help Wanted

DRIVERS WANTED

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FULL Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

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SMALL

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Small Business. Big Impact. Our local businesses are the heartbeat of this town. Support them today — shop, dine & share!

PART TIME & Full Time. The awardwinning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County’s North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/ warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

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HOME OF THE WEEK

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ANSWERS TO TODAY’S PUZZLE

opinions

he Press Club of Long Island was among the press organizations that, along with newspapers and other media, voiced their opposition to the move by President Trump last month to ban journalists from three major media outlets from the White House. However, a Trump-appointed U.S. District Court judge responding to a lawsuit brought by the three outlets — CNN, MS Now and Politico — issued a restraining order directing the White House to lift the prohibition. The PCLI issued a statement condemning Trump’s action, saying, “Press freedom is at the heart of our democracy and a constitutional right.” The statement continued: “The vital role of journalists cannot be overstated, Journalists inform the public and hold power to account. Restricting journalists from the White House undermines the public’s right to factual and independent reporting and only serves to weaken the transparency upon

which our democracy is dependent.” “We proudly stand with our fellow journalists and call for a reversal of this decision immediately,” the PCLI said. As the founding president of the press club in 1974, spurred in encouraging its formation by the jailing of a journalist for not divulging a confidential source, I am proud of its action. It is now one of the largest chapters of the Society of Professional Journalists, which describes itself as “the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism.” Trump said he was barring those media outlets’ access to the White House because, as he wrote on Truth Social, “Media Outlets shouldn’t be able to constantly write or report FICTION and LIES when they’re covering the President of the United States, the Trump Administration, or the United States of America.” The Manhattan-based New York Press Club issued a statement saying, “Trump’s latest attack on the First Amendment in banning Politico, MS Now and CNN from covering the White House is yet another slap in the face to

freedom of the press in the United States.” It went on: “All media outlets, the Congress, Republicans, Democrats and independents, and the public should come together to denounce this breach of American democracy. The president continues to diminish the people’s right to be informed about the news of the day from the White House and limits the public’s right to know by restricting access and admitting only those in agreement with him.” The Washington, D.C.based Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, which describes itself as “the leading pro bono legal services organization for journalists and newsrooms in the U.S.,” filed a friend-of-the-court brief accompanying the outlets’ lawsuit. Bruce D. Brown, its president, said, “Amid so many attacks from the Trump administration on journalists, this one has really struck a chord because the public can easily get its head around what has happened here. The president has kicked news organizations out of the White House because he does not like the news they report. That is a brazen violation of the First Amendment that the

nd groups like the 52-year-old Press Club of Long Island know better.

courts should quickly reverse in order to protect the public interest.” Status, an online media review, said the “press ban comes amid a broader pattern of threats and attempts by Trump to muzzle the media during his second term.” It declared, “Suffice to say, such behavior is far more aligned with authoritarian leaders than the person who is supposed to be the leader of the free world. Trump, however, does not seem to mind. Asked by reporters what message his ban sends to countries like China that are ‘repressive’ against journalists, Trump disturbingly responded: ‘I think we’re repressive also.’” The founders of the United States, the framers of the U.S. Constitution, created a system of checks and balances among the three branches of the federal government — the administrative, legislative and judicial branches — and a free press to serve as a watchdog of them all. Said Thomas Jefferson: “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” That system should be treasured and live on. Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.

We’re limiting legal refugees to white South Africans

urrent federal policy limits legal refugee admissions essentially to white South Africans, specifically Afrikaners. Congressional candidates, including incumbents, on Long Island and beyond need to state whether they support this policy, which has existed without sufficient Congressional or public attention. The public has a right to know. On Jan. 20, 2025, the first day of his second term, President Trump issued an executive order titled “Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program.” It imposed a ban on a program that has for decades — with longstanding bipartisan support — provided a legal way for refugees fleeing persecution in other countries to be vetted and, if approved, resettled in this country. On Oct. 30, the administration announced an exception to the ban: It would limit the number of refugees admitted to the United States to 7,500 — a dramatic decline from the target of 125,000 in 2024 — and they would mostly be white South Africans. As the Associ-

ated Press reported at the time, the federal notice “made no mention of any other specific groups to be admitted besides the white South Africans, known also as Afrikaners.” Afrikaners, it should be noted, have a long history of supporting and implementing white supremacy. It was Afrikaners who led the South African government after World War II, when it created a formal system of racial apartheid. As NPR Illinois reports, “In 1948, the Afrikaner-led government began to implement apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation that benefited whites. Black people and other non-white South Africans were displaced and dispossessed. Apartheid ended in 1994 with the formation of a new, democratic government led by anti-apartheid activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela.” On May 26, the Trump administration announced that it would admit another 10,000 white South Africans as refugees, while essentially continuing to ban people from other countries. The State Department issued data on Aug. 5, revealing that the U.S. had accepted 10,258 refugees in the fiscal year, all but three of whom were South Africans.

On Sept. 25, Trump issued a Presidential Determination limiting refugee admissions in the new fiscal year, which started Oct. 1, to an additional 17,500, primarily Afrikaners from South Africa. No other country was mentioned. Afrikaners aren’t simply among those being admitted. They are virtually the only people being admitted. That’s clearly a statement of principle rather than a reflection of the state of the world. The president is only required to inform Congress, so Congress may avoid taking a position, but clearly the president can make changes during the new fiscal year, as he did previously. At a minimum, Congress should state how this policy reflects American values, and if members support or oppose it. By his actions, Trump is using the legal refugee admissions policy primarily to bring to the U.S. members of the Afrikaner community, which implemented white supremacy through apartheid in South Africa. By his actions he is publicly affirming that system. It’s important to keep in mind that the U.S. had its own systems of apartheid against Blacks: slavery and then Jim-Crow segregation. The president’s

rump’s actions are a clear signal to white supremacists in the U.S.

actions are a clear signal to white supremacists in the U.S. that he wants to extend that legacy. After all, from Day One of the Trump administration, the combination of the president’s executive orders, related Congressional actions and sought-after Supreme Court decisions have removed Blacks from federal jobs without cause, and stripped them of civil rights that ensured their right to vote and their right not to be denied housing due to discrimination based on race and other protected attributes. This Afrikaner resettlement in the U.S. is a stunning act by the president. It deserves to be discussed and debated by those seeking to serve in Congress. Candidates for Congress on Long Island, including incumbents, need to make clear whether they support this federal policy. The federal refugee admissions program was created by an act of Congress, the Refugee Act of 1980. How can Congress not care about how the program is used? The question — Do you support the current federal policy on refugee admissions? — is one that requires a simple yes or no answer. Yet that answer will speak volumes about each candidate. Elaine Gross is founder and president emerita of ERASE Racism, the regional civil rights organization based on Long Island.

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

The president pretends there’s no freedom of the press

HERALD EDITORIAL

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October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

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Main Street can’t sit out the A.I. revolution

ast month, 50 Long Island small businesses gathered at Stony Brook University to finish something few of their owners would have imagined a year ago: six months of training in artificial intelligence. The LIA-AI Growth Academy was free to participants. It was run by the Long Island Association’s foundation, funded by Google.org and taught by Stony Brook’s technology and A.I. experts, along with advisers from the Long Island Small Business Development Center. It was open only to companies with 20 or fewer employees, and graduates received a $5,000 grant to put A.I. to work in their businesses. Long Island’s municipalities, chambers of commerce and educational institutions must find ways to replicate this terrific program. The stakes are high, because A.I. is the first technology in a long time that can favor the little guy. For most of the last century, size was destiny. A big company could afford an IT department, inhouse lawyers, a finance team and analysts poring over its data, and the corner store could not. A.I. erases much of that advantage. A contractor can turn handwritten notes into clean estimates and keep three job sites on schedule. A hardware store can spot the items that are gathering dust and the ones that keep selling out. A two-lawyer firm can summarize a 200page lease before lunch. Corporations spent millions of dollars on tools that now cost a small business a modest

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LETTERS Keep up the good work, Herald To the Editor: Re your editorial, “Celebrating newspapers and local reporting” (Oct. 1-7): Congratulations to the Herald on its excellent coverage of local news, and then some. I am a subscriber, a supporter and a believer in journalism — freedom of the press is essential, especially at this time in our country. With so much information and misinformation, I rely on the professionalism, honesty and thorough investigative reporting of newspapers across the country, and the Herald in particular. Thank you for covering Long Island and our neighborhoods. You keep us informed. May you and your journalists continue your important work. MARGUERITE WESTBROOK Lynbrook

monthly subscription. We know the objection, because we hear it from every owner we talk to: Who has the time? Small-business owners already work long weeks. They answer the phones, make payroll, chase invoices and sweep the floor. Adding “Learn A.I.” to that list sounds absurd. But few things a business owner can do will pay off more than a few hours spent learning these tools. The time invested comes back every week — in invoices sent faster, schedules built in minutes and paperwork that no longer eats the weekend. Owners don’t have to figure it out alone. The LIA should announce a second cohort, and we hope it’s much bigger. The Long Island SBDC at Stony Brook offers free one-on-one advising, and the state SBDC network now runs a dedicated A.I. program. In Nassau, Hofstra University’s Entrepreneurship Assistance Center has teamed up with the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce on a series of practical A.I. workshops for local business owners, a model every chamber on Long Island should copy. Hofstra’s ideaHUb incubator also connects young companies with mentors and student interns. Farmingdale State College has launched a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence that blends business and computer science, and Long Island University is building its own A.I. offerings. Nassau and Suffolk community colleges and our public libraries offer affordable continuingeducation and tech classes. Business

owners should use them. A.I.’s promise doesn’t mean we should be naïve about its dangers. The same tools that help a bakery balance its books can write a convincing scam email or clone a child’s voice to con a grandparent. Bad actors are already using A.I. for fraud, impersonation and deepfakes. Any A.I. training should also teach owners how to protect themselves from these scams. The bigger problems are not for the deli owner to solve. That job belongs to Albany and Washington. Lawmakers need to set clear rules: real penalties for A.I.enabled fraud and impersonation, disclosure when content is A.I.-generated, transparency from the companies building these systems. A.I. will likely eliminate jobs — especially the entry-level clerical, customer-service and bookkeeping work that has started countless Long Island careers — so government budgets must account for retraining workers whose jobs change or disappear. Embracing the technology and demanding guardrails are not contradictory. They are two halves of the same responsible approach. A.I. is coming to Long Island’s economy whether Main Street is ready or not. The LIA, Hofstra and other local institutions have shown what readiness looks like. But they can’t train 100,000 Long Island small businesses on their own. That will take every town hall, chamber, library and college on the Island pulling in the same direction, and it needs to start now.

opinions

igher education on Long Island is a major force for economic, scientific and cultural advancement. The Island’s 17 colleges and universities employ about 26,000 faculty and staff — roughly 2 percent of total regional employment — and have enrolled over 160,000 students in recent years. Long Island is also home to major research centers, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes at Northwell and Stony Brook university, among others. While national headlines have focused on federal funding cuts and demands for compliance of elite private research universities, we shouldn’t lose sight of local impacts. All institutions rely on federal support for research and student aid. Those demands were accompanied by unsupported claims or selective evidence of institutional wrongdoing that do not follow the federal government’s own guidelines for regulatory action. The Trump administration’s cuts to the National Science Foundation and other federal sources of research fund-

ing affect local institutions as well as those in the news. It has cut an estimated $47 billion locally and halted thousands of approved grants. Scientific advances by Long Island institutions in health science, quantitative computing and energy management, among others, save lives and improve the quality of life for all of us. The federal government and higher education institutions have had a strong partnership dating back to the 1863 Land Grant Act, through the Servicemen’s readjustment Act in 1944, the creation of the National Science Foundation in 1950, and the National Defense Education Act in 1958. This partnership has worked well through the years, and is grounded in several signature Supreme Court decisions, including Sweezy v. New Hampshire. In that case, Justice Felix Frankfurter articulated the four freedoms of universities to determine, on academic grounds, what to teach, how to teach, who will teach and who will be taught. unfortunately, this foundation for advanced learning in America is being challenged by federal and state actions. The government’s Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education would confer preferred access to federal research funds in exchange for abandoning academic freedom and institutional

ur foundation for advanced learning is facing federal and state challenges.

Letters Town should come clean on tax increases To the Editor: When is the Town of Hempstead going to stop using deceptive accounting practices to hide the fact that it’s raising our taxes? By removing Sanitation Department budgets from the town’s main budget and creating separate special district budgets, the town can raise taxes through those districts while claiming that it isn’t raising town taxes. The money and the tax burden doesn’t disappear; it’s simply moved out of the main budget, to where taxpayers are less likely to see it. What’s to stop those sanitation districts from raising taxes after Election Day? Another deceptive practice the town has used for decades is burying revenue labeled “miscellaneous” in its General Fund, which has now accumulated $50.2 million. The town should disclose how much of that revenue comes from the utility bills of Liberty Water, PSEG and National Grid customers. Liberty is seeking a 37 percent rate increase next year, in part because of the everincreasing taxes it pays to the town and county — taxes ultimately paid by Liberty customers on utility property that

governance. Most of those offered the compact, and the more recent Compact 2.0, have said no, because it would violate longstanding principles. It would interfere with student admissions, faculty hiring, academic programming and international relationships. The latest action to reshape higher education is Secretary of Education Linda McMahon’s letter to campus boards and presidents calling for answers to a set of provocative questions. In this threepage “Call to Action” directed at wealthy institutions, the department requested information about admissions, free speech, intellectual pluralism and college affordability. Asked about any relationship between responses and federal funding, a department spokesperson said, “It would be natural for the government to look favorably on those who supported its position,” according to Inside Higher Education. And now the authors of “Project 2025” have proposed model legislation for state governments to bar campus officials from taking positions on the “issues of the day,” even if they threaten academic freedom, and from mentioning race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity in any policies, procedures, training, etc.,

should be tax-exempt. LI Clean Air Water & Soil has asked the town to put all tax revenue from Liberty Water into a separate fund to help finance the South Nassau Water Authority’s acquisition of the system. Had the Town done this decades ago, we could have had public water by now, like 95 percent of New Yorkers. Then there’s the sale of real property as a one-time gimmick to balance the budget, along with taking $30 million from reserves. Neither should be used to fund recurring expenses, practices that run contrary to sound government financial management. Joe Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for town supervisor, is right to shine a light on the town’s “miscellaneous” revenue. It may be time for State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to investigate the town’s finances and expose the deceptive practices being used to conceal tax increases. Perhaps Hempstead needs its own version of the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority to bring transparency and accountability to its finances. CLAuDIA BorECkY Co-director, LI Clean Air Water & Soil Ltd. and president, Bellmore Merrick Democratic Club Merrick

unless approved by the state. Fortunately, PEN America has rallied leaders of higher education to assert their own understanding of the “social contract” between the public and institutions. PEN’s allies acknowledge how colleges and universities can improve in transparency, costs and service to society, but they also emphasize that institutions should stand together in defense of Sweezy. The university — and here I include two- and four-year colleges — is dedicated to the search for truth and to the preparation of students to distinguish between and among empirical evidence, epiphanies, and emotion or superstition. Its role is as much about character development and citizenship advancement as it is about preparation for careers and commerce. It should not be controlled by politics. After all, we want students to question assertions and challenge assumptions, to know that words matter and that actions have consequences. They, too, benefit from the freedom to inquire, imagine and innovate. These are the characteristics of an educated mind. our universities may be in today’s headlines, but we can see beyond the present and take action to support higher education’s historic role in service to society. Robert A. Scott, Ph.D., is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

Framework by Tim Baker

A ghoulish gathering on Chestnut Street — Oceanside

WANTAGH HERALD — October 15, 2026

National news and higher education on Long Island

October 15, 2026 — WANTAGH HERALD

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