Baldwin Herald 02-13-2025

Four Chaplains are remembered

At the American Legion Baldwin Post 246, the Four Chaplains were honored in the 82nd anniversary since the four died in World War II. Story, additional photos, Page 10.

Department of Education in limbo What could happen if DOE is shut down in Baldwin

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

President Trump is considering an executive order that would shut down the U.S. Department of Education — a move that would deliver on a promise he made on the campaign trail.

In his first weeks in office, Trump has implemented sweeping changes — from freezing federal grant funds to placing Education Department employees in the education department on leave after an executive order banning diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

Shutting down the department — which would take an act of Congress — would have an effect on school districts on Long Island that rely on federal funding for many programs they offer.

A vote in 2023 on an amendment to a House rule to abolish the department failed to pass, as 60 Republicans joined all Democrats in the House to vote “no.”

What does the Department of Education do?

Created in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter, the department’s mission is to promote student

achievement and equal access to education for all. There is widespread misunderstanding that the department manages the country’s schools and dictates their curriculum. In reality, this responsibility falls to state governments and local school districts.

While the federal agency does not directly control K-12 education, it provides significant financial support to school districts with funding programs aimed at improving education, particularly in underserved communities. The department oversees student loan programs and administers Pell Grants, which help low-income students attend college.

Additionally, the department funds initiatives that support students with disabilities and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It also enforces civil rights laws aimed at preventing discrimination based on race or sex in schools that receive federal funding.

Local reaction to Trump’s plan

Shari Camhi, the Baldwin School District superintendent, wrote in an email to the Herald

Grant for new technology

$2,500 for bringing cutting-edge tools to school district

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Baldwin school district has been selected as one of the recipients of this year’s AASA, The School Superintendents Association Helping Kids Mini Grant in conjunction with Sourcewell, an initiative to enhance educational facilities and improve students’ learning experiences.

The district’s Technology Department will receive $2,500, which will be used to purchase advanced CNC router machines, providing Baldwin High School students with cuttingedge tools for hands-on learning.

opportunities for students. Baldwin was among 16 school districts across the country selected for the grant.

DAViD R. SCHUlER AASA, executive director

The router machines, computer-controlled cutting tools, will allow students to shape, engrave and carve various materials such as wood, plastic, metal and foam using precise digital programming. The introduction of this technology marks a significant step up from traditional manufacturing methods, fostering collaborative, project-based learning

“We are proud to be among the winners of Sourcewell/ AASA’s Helping Kids Mini Grant program, which will allow Baldwin High School’s Technology Department to acquire state-of-theart CNC router machines,” Shari Camhi, the district’s superintendent, wrote in a news release. “The new technology will enhance our curriculum across multiple disciplines, including woodworking, engineering, and robotics. With these new tools, we can better prepare our students for the future of manufacturing and design.”

Initially used for industrial purposes, the router machines could be traced to the early 1970s, when the development of computer-aided design software and automated machinery began to revolutionize manufacturing. Over the years, the

Continued on page 11

Maureen Lennon/Herald

Proposed bill allows opt-out of zero-emission bus mandate

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The New York State Assembly introduced a bill that would allow local school districts to opt out of a new state law mandating the transition to electric school buses. Lawmakers argue that the measure, which requires districts to replace diesel buses with zero-emission models, presents significant energy and cost-related challenges.

Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, who represents Baldwin said that she is also exploring the feasibility of using revenue from school bus red light camera fines to help cover busing costs in general, including the potential funding of electric buses.

“I believe the timeline to transition to zero-emissions school buses needs to be reevaluated. Our local school districts have just been hit with a 30 percent increase in transportation costs due to increased insurance liabilities, shortage of drivers, increased costs and the anticipated purchase of electric buses.”

At a news conference on Jan. 28, the proposed Assembly and Senate bills were introduced. If passed, they would give school districts the option to apply for a waiver from the state’s commissioner of education, allowing them to bypass certain zero-emission bus requirements.

Under current law, starting in 2027, school districts in New York will be required to purchase electric school buses to replace traditional diesel models. The state offers transportation aid as partial reimbursement for bus purchases, but the new measure has raised concerns about its affordability.

A group of Republican state senators sent a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul, expressing concerns over the high costs of electric buses. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the average new electric school bus costs

traditional diesel buses.

Hochul defended the initiative in a statement. “It is not enough to encourage New Yorkers to buy electric — we must build green infrastructure that will drive New Yorkers to choose cleaner and greener modes of transportation.”

The push for electric school buses is part of New York’s broader environmental goal of reaching 850,000 zero-emission vehicles by 2025, with plans for all new passenger vehicles to be electric by 2035. Critics of the mandate argue that electric buses cost two to four times more than traditional buses.

One analysis estimated that it could cost between $8

billion and $15.25 billion for school districts to transition their fleets from gas-powered to electric buses. Though these estimates do not include the costs of infrastructure and facility upgrades that would be needed to support these buses.

“I believe the timeline to transition to zero-emissions school buses needs to be reevaluated,” said Griffin. She expressed her concerns about the existing increased costs of transportation school districts face and is open to alternative ideas for funding this transition, along with other transportation related costs. “I don’t believe that the measure to permit districts to simply opt out of the zero-emission bus transition meets the moment.”

The Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at North Shore University Hospital delivers the nation’s best cardiac care.

Our team offers a full range of exceptional care, from minimally invasive procedures to lifesaving transplants—all while tackling the greatest challenges in medicine.

New bill introduced to provide school districts to opt-out of a state law mandating the transition to electric school buses by 2027.

Photos courtesy Baldwin School District Baldwin School District students were recognized at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Poster Contest and Reception.

The event is a long-standing tradition in Baldwin.

Baldwin celeberates MLK Jr. with poster contest

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Baldwin School District fourth-grade students were recognized at the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Poster Contest and Reception.

The event, a long-standing tradition started by the Concerned Parents of Baldwin and now organized by the district’s Fine & Per-

1

Brookside Elementary School.

Aisha Akinbode

Aiden Ducke

Teresa Laporte

Ari Stephenson

2

Lenox Elementary School.

Aaron Alexandre

Khari Flatts

Luisa Garcia Chevez

Kamilla Pena

3

Meadow Elementary Schoo.

Janelly Gonzalez

Charles Graham

Sydney Jones

Ava Lopez

Luke Matson

Lia Monteforte

Chizaram Ubah

Decades of fun at Twin Oaks Day Camp

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

For half a century, Twin Oaks Day Camp has been a summer haven for generations of campers, who have created memories and friendships that last a lifetime. As the camp marks its 50th anniversary this summer, its leaders are reflecting on what makes Twin Oaks a special place, that keeps families coming back year after year.

Twin Oaks has been family owned and operated since 1975, although its history stretches back even further. Hal Elman was a head counselor at the camp prior to 1975, and when the former owners were looking to sell the property, Elman and his college friend, Bernie Hoffman, along with their wives Barbara Elman and Beverly Hoffman, decided to purchase it.

Wforming Arts Department, focused on Dr. King’s legacy of service. Winners from each fourth-grade class were selected by school principals and art teachers. During the reception, the students received certificates in honor of their accomplishments.

In celebration of Black History Month, the winning posters will be displayed at the District Office throughout February.

Tremaine Wong

4

Plaza Elementary School.

Benjanie Asse

Mckenzie Christopher

Jasmine Klair

Ethan Monsalve

Kennedy Monvil

Aubrey Nelson

Leal Pellicier

Zahra Uwechue

5

Steele Elementary School.

Rihan Assaidi

Ervin Belizaire

Marcus Charles-Pierre

Jaden Drouillard

Janelle Guerrier

Anthony Marroquin Lazo

Since then, the camp has flourished into what it is today — a place where every camper and their family member feel like they’re part of an even bigger “family.” The camp is based in Freeport, but serves many communities, including Merrick, Bellmore, East Meadow, Wantagh, Seaford, Baldwin, Rockville Centre and beyond.

June 30 and ends on Aug. 22. Enrollment is currently open for all programs.

“We’re not the biggest or the fanciest,” Elman-Davis told the Herald, “but we have the most heart. We do a lot of fun, innovative programming. Our travel program for our teens is one of the best travel programs around.”

During each week of camp, there’s a special “theme” that children can take part in — whether its simply dressing up in red, white and blue for Independence Day celebrations, or a special activity day like relay races, a DJ Dance Party or Halloween in August, the camp’s calendar is both fun and engaging.

e’re a place that smiles.

JENNi ELMAN-DAViS

Director Twin Oaks Day Camp & Day School

Something that makes Twin Oaks so special, Elman-Davis said, is its multigenerational members. Many campers from the 70s and 80s now have children of their own, she said, who are either campers or enrolled in Twin Oaks’ Day School as students, which opened in 1975. The students range from toddlers to pre-K.

Twin Oaks is now run by Jenni Elman-Davis, Hal and Barbara’s daughter, alongside assistant directors Carin Stone and Michele Colella, who have both worked at the camp for over 25 years.

The camp is split into four divisions, with its youngest members taking part in the Barney Program for children between the ages of 20-months and 30-months-old. Each camper is paired with a one-on-one supervisor, and they get to take part in a half-day program, filled with fun, adventure and socialization.

The Lower Camp is for three and four year-olds and the Upper Camp is for children in kindergarten through third-grade. There are full day and mini day programs available. The camp’s activity directors create an engaging and diversified experience for all campers, and each child has an opportunity to participate in sports, art-and-crafts, swimming and more.

Its Gemini Program is for Twin Oaks’ oldest campers, for students entering into fourth-grade through ninth-grade. Instead of attending the day camp, children in the program travel every single day to a new location all over Long Island and New York City. From baseball games to amusement parks, and everything in between, the Gemini Program is Twin Oaks’ most non-traditional camp experience.

Camp season this year begins on

“We have a very good relationship with the local elementary schools,” Elman Davis said. “A lot of local elementary school teachers send their children to us because they feel that their students come to public school very well prepared.”

“Papa Hal” — Hal Elman — died last year, but Elman-Davis said her mom still checks in each day — even though she lives in Florida. Her mom still runs into people constantly, who simply remember her as “Barbara from Twin Oaks.”

Stone said the environment at Twin Oaks is incredible, and that there’s nothing Elman-Davis wouldn’t do for members of her staff or the families they serve.

“She is kind and loving and understanding,” Stone said. “She loves the children here, but she loves her staff too.”

Colella called Twin Oaks “Family, Fun and Flexible” — meaning that the directors really try to accommodate every family and their schedules in order to meet their needs.

“We’re a place that smiles,” ElmanDavis said. “The minute you walk through our gate, how could you not smile? You’re greeted by happiness. To get to see the world through the eyes of a child every day is the greatest gift that anyone could receive.”

Twin Oaks is located at 458 Babylon Turnpike, Freeport. For more information on the camp and the school, including enrollment, visit TwinOaksDayCamp.com, or call (516) 623-4550.

Protecting Your Future

The Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)

For those who don’t qualify for long-term care insurance or can’t afford it, the Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”) can protect your assets from the high cost of long-term care in your home or in a facility.

The MAPT sets up two roadblocks that Medicaid cannot break through. First, you cannot be your own trustee. Usually, one or more of the adult children act as trustee.

Secondly, you, as the creator of the MAPT, are entitled to the income only, not the principal. If you don’t have access to the principal (your home or other assets in the trust), then Medicaid doesn’t have access to the principal. The MAPT makes good sense for assets you’re not going to spend –like your home and investments you’re not using. As we often say, if you don’t need it to live on, then why not protect it for your family instead of losing it to pay for long-term care.

When you apply for Medicaid for nursing home care, if you’ve transferred any assets in the past five years, you are ineligible. The full protection of the trust only takes place five years

after you establish the trust. This is why you want to plan ahead. Proposed new rules, often delayed but constantly looming, would also require you to have the MAPT in place two and half years in advance to be eligible for care in your own home.

The MAPT does not affect your lifestyle. You still receive your pension, social security checks, minimum distributions on your retirement plans, interest and dividends. You have the exclusive right to use and enjoy your home. You keep all your property tax exemptions. You can sell your house, buy a new one, or invest the proceeds, which remain in the trust, still protected.

The MAPT is also flexible. You can change trustees and you can change who you leave it to.

Although the MAPT is an irrevocable trust, not only does it have the flexibility mentioned above, but in New York there is a mechanism to revoke an irrevocable trust. All that is required is for all parties, you and your children, to sign. We even have a workaround just in case one of the children refuses to sign.

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one. We are dedicated to supporting one another, giving each other strength and celebrating a life – together.

Rockville Centre hosts fundraiser for Bethany House

Rockville Centre came together at the American Legion for a fundraiser for Bethany House, a Baldwin-based organization dedicated to supporting women and children experiencing homelessness in Nassau County. With over 50 people attending the event — a paint night run by Hue Studio in Rockville Centre — the group raised $3,000 for the organization through a fun night of decoupage and giving.

The fundraiser, titled “Giving Plates,” was a collaboration between Bethany House and Hue Studio. The evening featured an arts and crafts activity where attendees decorated glass plates as part of a unique tradition. Each decorated plate is intended to be filled with food and passed along from one person to another, Anne DeGruttola, Director of Administrative Services at Bethany House, explained, symbolizing the spirit of giving and sharing.

There were other treats available at the Jan. 23 event too, like charcuterie boards from Let It Brie, in Rockville Centre, and raffle prizes for all ages, including tickets to Broadway shows and Adventure Park.

Participants at the fundraiser enjoyed charcuterie boards from Let It Brie, in Rockville Centre, and had the chance to win prizes from a variety of raffles, including Broadway show tickets and

passes to Adventure Park. The event was made possible through the partnership of local businesses and supporters, with this collaboration coming from the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, where Bethany House and Hue Studio connected. This is not the first time Rockville Centre has run fundraisers for the organization, DeGruttola said.

“We have so much support from Rockville Centre,” she said.

Bethany House operates three emergency homeless shelters in Baldwin and Roosevelt, a small affordable housing unit and a privately funded transitional housing building, DeGruttola said. The organization offers a variety of services beyond emergency shelter, including mental health resources, therapeutic activities like yoga and support programs aimed at helping residents achieve self-sufficiency. The organization is well-supported among local communities, DeGruttola said.

“We always are having beautiful, different things happen from community partnerships,” she said.

For more information on upcoming events or to support Bethany House, visit their website at BHNY.org/events or follow them on Instagram at @BethanyHouseNY.

— Kelsie Radziski

Photos courtesy Anne DeGruttola

The Rockville Centre community painted ‘giving plates’ on Jan. 23 to raise money for Bethany House.

MIKE KONDYRA

MacArthur Senior Basketball

A THREE-YEAR STARTER looking for his first AllCounty selection, Kondyra reached a milestone Jan. 27 in MacArthur’s 79-72 defeat to Long Beach. As part of a 42-point performance, he recorded her 1,000th career point. He hit seven three-pointers in what was his third 40-plus point game of the season. The AllConference honoree in 2023-24 iis averaging 25 points per game this winter to rank among Nassau County’s top five scorers.

GIRLS WRESTLING

NASSAU COUNTY CHAMPIONS

Tyasia Buxton, V.S. Central, 94 pounds

Harley Eidens, Long Beach, 100

Presley Eidens, Long Beach, 107

Gabrielle Severin, Bethpage, 114

Haley Gonzales, Hicksville, 120

Olivia Rausenberger, MacArthur, 126

Taylor Brock, Kennedy, 132

Jessica Marzano, Bethpage, 138

Gabriella Schechtman, Kennedy, 145

Keishara Tulloch, Uniondale, 152

Isabella Steffa, Seaford, 165

Eyslin Turcios, V.S. North, 185

Naomi Gonzalez, V.S. North, 235

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Girls wrestling takes center stage

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

History was made Feb. 2 when Nassau County hosted its first-ever girls’ wrestling tournament at Bethpage High School with more than 100 entrants from over 20 districts.

Champions were crowned in 13 weight classes, ranging from 94 to 235 pounds, before a jam-packed crowd. Uniondale had the largest contingency with 22 participants as coach Tim Godoy said interest exploded after fall sports concluded.

“It’s been a really fun season and this tournament is great to see,” Godoy said. “I recruited some kids I coach in soccer and badminton and it just kind of took off from there. Last year we had two girls wrestling. By the end of the first week of practice this November, we had 30.”

Bethpage coach Sean Severin coordinated the one-day tournament and was thrilled to see everything run smooth. His daughter, Bethpage junior Gabrielle, captured the

Kennedy senior Gabriella Schechtman, who competed for MacArthur’s team, won the title at 145 pounds.

114-pound title which made a historic day that much more special.

“I was super happy with how good the event turned out,” Sean Severin said. “It drew a really big crowd and the girls brought the energy. It’s going to be a great stepping stone for the growth of the sport in Nassau County.”

Long Beach, which for more than four decades has fielded one of the premier wrestling programs in the county, has four girls competing this season including eighth-grade twins Presley and Harley Eidens. All four made the finals with the Eidens’ both winning championships.

“This is unbelievable opportunity for all the female wrestlers in Nassau,” said Long Beach coach Ray Adams, whose daughter, Reese, competes for Calhoun but missed her junior season with a knee injury that required surgery. “Our youth program, the Gladiators, started a girls program a few years ago and it keeps growing,” he said.

Adams credited 2020 graduate Lina Diamond with being the trailblazer for the budding Long Beach girls program. Presley Eidens, who also plays lacrosse and volleyball, said she started wrestling about two-and-ahalf years ago and grapples with her sister every day in practice. Freshmen Arianna Balsamo (152) and Sofia Calle (165) are also workout partners. “They’ve all improved every match,” Adams noted.

Valley Stream Central junior Tyasia Buxton said she joined wrestling to bring additional discipline into her

life. She just took up the until four months ago but has come a long way in a short time, coach Chris Carbajal said. Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.

“Really proud of her,” Carbajal said. “She made a commitment and stuck to it all season.”

Buxton credits a good deal of her success to scraping against boys almost exclusively this season. “I’ve taken my losses, but I learned a lot and I’m better for it,” she said. “It feels great to win. I gave it my all and didn’t give up.”

Lynbrook junior Dani Zhanay is one of the county’s most-experienced wrestlers. She’s been competing for eight years, coach Rich Renz said, after starting with the Titans youth league. “She loves competing and has a lot of skill,” Renz explained.

Uniondale sophomore Brianna Marquez is one of a

handful of soccer players who decided to give wrestling a try at the urging of Godoy. She was runner-up to Presley Eidens at 107. The Knights crowned one champion — sophomore Keishara Tulloch at 152.

“All the girls are amazing and the wrestling community has been really supportive,” Marquez said. “We all push each other harder every day. It’s definitely something I can see myself continuing to do.” Valley Stream North crowned a pair of champs with juniors Eyslin Turcios winning at 185 and Naomi Gonzaez emerging victorious at 235. Kennedy saw senior Gabriella Schechtman win at 145 and eighth-grader Taylor Brock finish first at 132. All 13 county champs along with six second-place finishers advance to the girls state tournament Feb. 27 in Albany.

Terry Uellendahl/Herald photos Valley Stream Central’s Tyasia Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.

NASSAU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

WE’RE EXPANDING SERVICES

NUMC’s new clinical services can help all Nassau residents focus on preventative health care in 2025. We’ve recently expanded these offerings and have longer hours to make staying healthy more convenient than ever before.

12:30pm - 2:30pm Thursdays – 9am – 12:30pm Mondays 9am-12pm WALK-INS WELCOME! For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 516-296-2345 or visit NUMC.edu. to reach thousands of women with across the county. In 2025 we’ll launch our new MOBILE MAMMOGRAPHY CENTER STATE-OF-THE-ART BREAST CANCER SCREENINGS

NASSAU HEALTH CARE UPDATE

Ó NUMC is running out of money and could close its doors in

Ó NUMC is poorly run and should be taken over by Albany

be

by

to

NUMC’s

NUMC’s leadership reduced the hospital’s projected deficit by more than $100 million

NUMC earned the coveted Gold Seal rating from the Joint Commission and increased its safety rating in 2024

NUMC opened it’s new MRI facility in 2024 and expanded clinical services

and we’re here for you and your family. We treat everyone –

$0 in grants

The Hochul Administration and NYS provided for NUMC in 2024. NYS has now been exposed for breaking federal law through a massive Medicaid scam to cheat Nassau residents out of additional funding.

‘It serves as an advocate for public education’

that shutting down the Department of Education could significantly impact the district, causing disruptions in the administration of federal education programs and delays in the disbursement of federal funds.

Having an agency focused solely on education underscores the vital importance it plays in our country.

SHari CamHi Superintendent

If a dismantling of the department were to happen, Camhi added, “The Baldwin Union Free School District will do everything possible to ensure there is minimal disruption to our education program, our staff and students,” she stated. “The Department of Education not only provides necessary funding for our deserving students and exceptional programs, but it serves as an advocate for public education.”

“The majority of students in the U.S. attend public schools, the cornerstone of our democracy,” she continued. “Having an agency focused solely on education underscores the vital importance it plays in our country.”

president trump is considering an executive order that would shut down the u.S. department of

Funding from the DOE constitutes nearly $2 million of the district’s budget, Camhi said.

In a statement, the State Education Department reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and the legal protections ensuring that all children receive a fair and equitable education based on the state Constitution.

“Recent executive orders issued by

the President are antithetical to this tradition,” a statement posted on the department’s website on Feb. 3 read. “They are also ineffective, as the President has a constitutional duty to ‘take care that the laws be faithfully executed.’ This means the President cannot decide which laws to enforce or funds to distribute. It’s also why two federal courts immediately enjoined the Presi-

dent’s attempt to ‘freeze’ federal funds.

“The Board and the Department remain committed to the inherent dignity and worth of every child,” the statement continued. “As such, we denounce the intolerant rhetoric of these orders. Our children cannot thrive in an environment of chaos; they need steady and stable leadership that we will endeavor to provide.”

Tim Baker/Herald

education.

82nd anniversary of the Four Chaplains

The American Legion Baldwin Post 246 hosted a ceremony on Feb. 5 to honor the legacy of the Four Chaplains, four men of different faiths who gave their lives to save others during World War II. The event marked the 82nd anniversary of the sinking of the USAT Dorchester on Feb. 3, 1943.

At the ceremony, attendees gathered to reflect on the chaplains’ heroism, selflessness, and unwavering faith. Local veterans, community members and local elected officials participated in the event, paying tribute to the sacrifices made by the chaplains.

Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, Father John P. Washington, Father George L. Fox, and Lieutenant Clark V. Poling were aboard the transport ship when a German submarine torpedoed it. As the ship sank, the chaplains gave up their life jackets, helping others into lifeboats and offering prayers as they perished.

The Four Chaplains Ceremony serves as an annual reminder of the enduring spirit of sacrifice and brotherhood, transcending faith, and the bravery shown during a pivotal moment in history.

— Hernesto Galdamez

As the ship sank, the chaplains gave up their life jackets, helping others into lifeboats and offering prayers as they perished.

Maureen Lennon/Herald

Commander Officer Col. Louis DiLeo sang the National Anthem at the Feb. 5 ceremony in Baldwin.

Nassau County Legislator Debra Mule attended the 82nd anniversary of the Four Chaplains.

Ceremonial flag folding.

Preparing students for life after high school

technology has become more accessible, with smaller and more affordable versions being used in educational settings to teach students about engineering, design and fabrication.

CNC routers are now essential in fields like manufacturing, architecture and product design, providing hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for a wide range of careers in STEM and creative industries.

“The new CNC Router Machines in the classroom would be incorporated into the curriculum for numerous courses, from wood working, college engineering, to college robotics, and college technical drawing,” Anthony DeAngelis, technology teacher at Baldwin High School, wrote in an email to the Herald. “Many modern fabrication and assembly shops have successfully integrated CNC manufacturing labs.

“By introducing these relevant classroom technologies, our high school can transition from traditional hand manufacturing, which utilizes separate machines for individual projects, to fostering collaborative group work within the classroom,” he added.

DeAngelis explained that the projects students would create with the machines range from wood carvings to aluminum brackets used in robotics, with these brackets being designed in technical drawing classes and manufactured in engineering and robotics programs.

He emphasized that incorporating modern, portable and flexible learning equipment would better align with current job markets and better prepare students for life after high school by reflecting the realities of today’s workforce.

The AASA Helping Kids Mini Grant Program,

Baldwin School district received a $2,500 Helping Kids mini grant from aaSa, the School Superintendents association, to purchase CnC router machines for the high school.

which was created in 2012, seeks to support public school districts by funding projects that improve both district infrastructure and learning environments.

“AASA is thrilled to be able to support public school districts,” David R. Schuler, AASA’s executive director,

stated in a news release. “We pride ourselves as the premier national organization of service for the education community, and it’s part of our fabric to help provide opportunities for districts to better themselves and their communities.”

Courtesy Baldwin School District

IChange for one PERSON TO PERSON

’m frequently asked if you can change a relationship if only one person is trying. My unequivocal answer: YES! Of course, it’s not going to be as simple or easy as having two cooperative partners, but here’s an example of what can happen.

First, if you’ve been knocking yourself out trying every possible way you can think of, to get the other person to change, give it up. You’ve explained what’s bothering you. You’ve repeated yourself many times, nagging, demanding, crying, having a fit, threatening, punishing, becoming silent and resentful. Where has that gotten you? You’re just as frustrated as ever. So, save your energy and give up trying to make the other person change.

Second, decide how you will respond differently, not only to get the other person to change, but primarily to take care of your own needs. When you make a change, even a small one, you automatically change not only yourself, but also something about how your relationship works.

was that she was trying too hard to get Don to change. Now it was time for her to focus on making a change for herself. I suggested she stop asking him questions, stop initiating conversations, and cut out the talk time. If she felt the need to talk with someone, she could call her friends, her mom, her sister, or her kids. Since she also had expressed a need to do more things, I suggested she join a gym or take an adult-ed class. Immediately, Jacqui resisted. She believed that these changes would make things even worse because they’d increase the distance between her and her husband. I reminded her that the purpose of these changes was not to get closer to Don but to take care of herself, to meet her needs, to be more in control.

Consider the following example. Jacqui entered my office feeling miserable. “My marriage is at a low point. I love my husband, but he rarely talks to me. I ask him how his day was; he’ll grunt ok, then flip on the TV. He shuts me out of his life and doesn’t want to hear about my day. I’ve asked him to come to therapy with me, but he refuses. What can I do?”

Jacqui had tried everything she knew to get her husband to talk to her. In addition to constantly asking him questions, she was always trying to initiate more conversations hoping to get him involved. Figuring that it might be easier for him to talk late at night, without the kids and other distractions, she scheduled talk time twice a week, when she and her husband would go for a walk or just sit on the deck and talk.

This scheduled talk time, however, backfired. It soon became obvious that even then Don was not communicative. As a result, Jacqui felt even more upset, abandoned and totally unloved, even though Don said he loved her but just wanted to be left alone after a hard day’s work.

The first thing I told Jacqui

After a while, Jacqui decided to give my suggestions a try. After getting involved in a pickleball league a ceramics class, and talking more with friends, she noticed that she was feeling happier, and less resentful even though Don, true to form, was still his non-communicative self. Then months later, Jacqui noticed that Don was less withdrawn. He admitted to feeling lonely and left out. He complained that she had gotten busy with things outside the home, and he’d like her to spend more time with him.

Jacqui was amazed that Don was now coming to her with a request to spend more time together. She was careful, however, not to drop her activities and go back to the way things used to be. Instead, she responded casually but positively saying, “You’re right. I have been out a lot. And enjoying myself too. But if you’d like to spend more time together, I’m open to that. This Thursday evening’s a good time for me. Would that work for you too?”

©2025

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach, and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives, and overcome debilitating anxiety, procrastination, and depression. Visit her website at PsychWisdom. com.

Linda Sapadin

Legislators sue over county’s ‘illegal militia’

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Nassau County Democratic legislators and civil rights attorneys filed a lawsuit against the county last week, branding County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of special sheriff’s deputies an “illegal militia.”

“Bruce Blakeman’s militia is not about public safety — it’s political theater at the expense of Nassau County residents,” Legislator Seth Koslow, ranking member of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, said. “There is no justification for creating an unaccountable and illegal force that answers only to the county executive.”

Legislator Scott Davis criticized the measure as unnecessary, citing Nassau’s ranking as one of the safest counties in the country, and called for an increase in properly trained law enforcement officers as an alternative to the volunteer deputy program. The county currently employs over 2,500 officers who have undergone rigorous training.

In the event that the county’s existing law enforcement and crisis volunteers are insufficient, the county has the ability to call for assistance from law enforcement agencies in neighboring counties.

The lawsuit alleges that the county’s application process for the program requires minimal qualifications, including ownership of a pistol license and no

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Democratic Nassau County legislators filed a lawsuit in State Supreme Court last week against the county and County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a special sheriff’s deputy program. Legislators Carrié Solages, far left, Scott Davis, Seth Koslow, Debra Mulé, Arnold Drucker and Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton gathered to announce the suit on Feb. 5.

“misdemeanor convictions within the previous five years.” For each day of activation during an emergency, a volunteer would receive a stipend of $150, which exceeds the hourly rate of pay limit that deputies may receive without legislative approval.

The lawsuit cites a Newsday investigation that found that 25 people had enlisted in the program as of last Sep-

tember, six of whom were not able to be found through background checks. The plaintiffs allege that the county’s program appears to require significantly less training than its regular police training.

Carey Dunne, an attorney from the Free and Fair Litigation Group, argued that this poses a risk to the general public.

“County Executive Blakeman’s mili-

tia endangers public safety in Nassau County and the health of our democracy nationwide,” Dunne said. “Our lawsuit alleges an authoritarian power grab in the heart of suburban America. We cannot let the abuse of executive power go unanswered.”

Legislator Debra Mulé alleged that special sheriff’s deputies are an illegal group that should not be funded with taxpayer money, and that the county executive should be compelled to comply with public record laws.

“We filed formal Freedom of Information Law requests to get answers, and Blakeman ignored them,” Mulé said. “Even the county budget hides how much money is being funneled into this program. If this militia is such a great idea, why is he hiding it from the public?”

Blakeman is the first defendant in the case, alongside Nassau County Sheriff Anthony LaRocco. Blakeman was adamant in his opposition to the lawsuit and his support of the volunteer unit.

“Debra Mulé and Scott Davis are a disgrace for bringing this frivolous action and defaming the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement, who have agreed to pitch in in the event of an emergency,” Blakeman said in a statement. “The antisemitic statements, denigrating these good citizens by labeling them as Nazi brownshirts, disqualify them for public service.”

Hundreds Attend The R.E.A.L. Awards

Event celebrates professionals driving growth and community development

By Angelina Zingariello

RichnerLIVE hosted its fourth annual R.E.A.L. Awards on Jan. 29, honoring the outstanding entrepreneurs, professionals and visionaries shaping Long Island’s real estate industry.

This event, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, recognized individuals who have excelled in their fields and dedicated themselves to community advocacy and development.

“We strive to spotlight these developments and the people and organizations behind them week in and week out,” Stuart Richner, president and publisher of Richner Communications Inc., said. “Your work is vital for our shared growth and prosperity.”

The ceremony emphasized the deep connection between real estate and local communities, highlighting how industry leaders contribute to the region’s growth and well-being. The event celebrated the accomplishments of professionals whose efforts go beyond building structures; they lay the foundation for thriving neighborhoods and economic prosperity.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees mingled and connected with friends and colleagues. The networking session set the tone for the night, allowing industry leaders to celebrate their shared achievements and contributions to the local real estate landscape.

“It’s always an honor to be honored,” said Sheldon Shrenkel, CEO and executive director of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency, said. “We appreciate the recognition, and to be together with all these other wonderful people in similar professions.”

After dinner, the awards ceremony was hosted by five-time Emmy Awardwinning investigative reporter Kristin Thorne. The honorees were recognized for their achievements, and came to the stage to accept their awards.

“It is always an honor to be celebrated multiple times by fellow architects and industry organizations,” Willy Zambrano, founder and design principal at Zambrano Architecutal Design, said. “However, recognition from another professional field is truly invaluable, particularly when it comes from a local news outlet. I’m elated to receive the Architectural Design Excellence award from this event.”

Keynote speaker Mike Florio, CEO of the Long Island Builders Institute, addressed the growing challenges in Long Island’s real estate market, emphasizing how rising construction costs, insurance premiums and restrictive zoning regulations are making homeownership increasingly difficult. Despite these obstacles, Florio highlighted the region’s desirability, and the need for collaborative efforts among developers, policymakers and local businesses to create sustainable, mixed-use communities that accommodate evolving demographic needs while ensuring

economic stability.

“To achieve these goals, we must take this conversation beyond a solution,” Florio said. “Everyone inside understands the challenges we face, but we need to reach a broader audience. Too often, the highest voices in the room are the small but local minority that is resistant to change.”

The annual Herald R.E.A.L. Awards served as a reminder of the vital role real estate professionals play in shaping Long Island’s future, not only through development but also through advocacy and community engagement. The evening brought together industry leaders to celebrate their achievements, foster connections and discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead.

A portion of the proceeds from the

evening benefited General Needs Ltd., a nonprofit organization that is committed to supporting homeless veterans. Founded in May 2015, General Needs provides essential services to veterans in emergency shelters in Brooklyn and Queens and across Long Island. The organization operates entirely through community support, ensuring that all donations directly assist those in need.

For a full list of honorees and photos, visit richnerlive.com/realestate.

Robert Esposito, founder of Relocators Service Inc. and author, “Nobody Move!” with Stuart Richner

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Honoree Nicholas Ceccarini with friends and family of Weatherstone Mortgage Corp

Hundreds cheer on our 2025 honorees

Keynote Speaker Mike Florio, Long Island Builders Institute

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Honoree Kevin D. Boone, Keller Williams Realty of Greater Nassau

Honoree Christina Volz and Nancy Cuite, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Honoree Sheldon L. Shrenkel, Nassau County IDA

Father/son honorees Kenneth and Stanley Schuckman, Schuckman Realty

Honoree Brendan D’Loren of Terwilliger & Bartone and Stuart Richner

Cocktail hour filled with 2025 honorees and their guests ahead of the ceremony

Honoree Tiffany Balanoff, Douglass Elliman

Honorees Vito Giannola, Provident Bank and Dee Dee Brix, Compass

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Honoree Willy L. Zambrano, Zambrano Architectural Design, LLC

Honoree Joseph Farkas, Metropolitan Realty Associates, LLC

By Danielle Schwab

GOUT

Friends

of the Brothers

Dinosaurs and epic roars

Dig into the mysteries of our favorite

et ready to embark on Jurassic Quest, one of the largest immersive dinosaur experiences in North America. The traveling prehistoric adventure, which combining archaeology with the latest tech, returns to Nassau Coliseum with its herd this weekend, Feb. 15-17.

Journey back 165 million years — to a time when mighty dinos ruled the Earth. The arena transforms into the TriassicJurassic and Cretaceous periods with life-like dinosaurs to observe and interact with during, that’s sure to spark the imagination.

“We bring dinosaurs to people in a way that’s fun, interactive and educational that you can’t find anywhere else,” says Jurassic Quest dinosaur expert Sarah Menard, better known as “Safari Sarah,” one of the expert “dino trainers.”

“You can go to a museum to see dinosaurs, but you’re only going to see fossils. You’re going to see educational things, but it’s not going to be as interactive or fun as maybe bouncing on a giant dinosaur inflatable would be,” she says.

There are plenty of opportunities to dig into the excitement. Hop on rideable dinosaurs, engage in hands-on science and art activities, enjoy thrilling dinosaur shows, observe real-life artifacts — and that’s only the start.

All of this — enhanced by carefully chosen vegetation, immersive sound effects, dynamic lighting, and interactive electronics — will make you feel like you’ve truly stepped into another time.

“One of my favorite things to see is whenever kids walk in their jaws drop, and then their parents walk in right after them and they do the same exact thing,” Safari Sarah adds.

Expect to see all your favorite dinos and meet new ones, including the formidable Triceratops, towering longnecks, fierce raptors, and of course, the infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex — standing proud at 20 feet tall as the ultimate apex predator.

prehistoric pals

• Feb. 15-16 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Feb. 17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Tickets start at $22 (Use code QUEST15 for 15 percent off admission); available at jurassicquest.com or on-site

• Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike Uniondale

where they can channel their

where they can channel their inner paleontologist, and study replicated and real fossils like T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn and life-size dino skull.

“They can learn not only how fossils are made, but they can make fossils themselves, and at the end of the day, they get to walk away with a dinosaurshaped fossil,” Safari Sarah says.

On display, you’ll find real artifacts like Megalodon and dinosaur teeth, horseshoe crabs, and maybe even a dinosaur skull.

Friends of the Brothers returns to the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers. Their powerful celebration featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show “Lackawanna Blues.” Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years while singer/guitarist Alan Paul is the author of “One Way Out,” the definitive, best-selling Allman Brothers biography based on 25 years of reporting on and interviewing the band. Their firsthand experience with the Allman Brothers and their deep knowledge of the repertoire, its roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players. Rock on!

Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 p.m. $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or call (516) 767-6444.

Every dinosaur is created in collaboration with top paleontologists to create accurate depictions. As more is learned about these prehistoric creatures, their features are updated to reflect the most authentic depiction of dinosaurs in their prime.

This year, you may see some different feather placement and colors added to the pack.

“We actually know that feathers were a lot more prominent than we originally thought. There are even some paleontologists that think that the T-Rex had feathers,” Safari Sarah explains.

While we may think of dinosaurs in their largerthan-life forms, they, of course started out young — and “small.” Meet the baby dinos, Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex, and Trixie the Triceratops, three lovable hatchlings ready to play with new friends!

“They all have their own personalities. They’re all kinds of tricksters and will steal your hat or your phone from you. They’re cute little buddies,” Safari Sarah says.

“The famous question we get is ‘Is this really real?”’

There’s much to explore at each activity station, including an opportunity to become a Utahraptor trainer for the largest raptor in the world. The team instruct families on different commands and tricks to use that they can try out for themselves.

Kids will also want to check out the fossil dig,

For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s

For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s a scavenger hunt-style activity that the whole family can explore. Go on “The Quest,” a scavenger hunt-style activity where budding paleontologists can become Jr. Park Rangers, and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help of a fun and fact-filled video tour.

and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help the

And the youngest adventurers have a spot all their own. Little dino-lovers can roam the ‘Triceratots’ soft play area, taking a well-deserved break from the excitement.

While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all of this

While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all ages to a sense of wonder.

“If a parent can step outside of their ‘common sense’ and get into ‘wow, this is a real science,’ it really opens it up for their children as well, ” Safari Sarah says.

From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, atmosphere

From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, dinosaurs unearth new — but actually very old — possibilities.

“Studying dinosaurs is a gateway science,” Safari Sarah explains. “It opens it up to all these different sciences that talk about our Earth or the atmosphere or the stars. Things that have always been around since the beginning of time.”

His ‘Bronx Tale’ Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage, with his solo version of “A Bronx Tale.” The powerful one-man stage play depicts his bruising childhood, which included witnessing a gangland killing in the Bronx when he was nine years old. Palminteri plays 18 characters and brings them all to life in his autobiographical play. His friends, enemies and family all come alive on stage. It became a hit after he wrote it in 1989 and the most sought after property since “Rocky.” This is the original show he wrote and performed that made him an in-demand character actor and served as the basis of the acclaimed movie and Broadway musical. Bronx-born and raised, Palminteri was a natural choice to continue the long line of prominent Italian actors in the film industry.

Sunday, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m., $99.50, $89.50, $79.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Visit ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com for tickets.

Photos courtesy Jurassic Quest

Trainer Safari Sarah (at left) knows her way around a dinosaur herd. These prehistoric creatures — of all shapes and sizes — roar to life at Jurassic Quest.

THE Your Neighborhood

Kevin James

You know him, you love him, and now you can catch Kevin James when his “Owls Don’t Walk” tour arrives at the Paramount, Sunday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. The standup comic and beloved sitcom star brings his latest material out on the road in 2025. In this this unfiltered special James’ delivers his hot takes on everything from parenting to marriage and getting older. As only Kevin can, he covers a range of topics from motivating children to put down their video games, to why he doesn’t trust technology, and how many tater tots he can fit in his mouth. James sure has come a long way since his early standup days on the Long Island comedy scene. After being discovered at the 1996 Montreal Comedy Festival, he signed a network development deal to create his own sitcom. “The King of Queens” premiered in 1998 and ran for nine seasons, earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. From there, his acting career blew up — in film and television. He also starred in, and executive produced The Crew, a sitcom set in the world of NASCAR and is currently developing a single camera comedy (both for Netflix).

Breastfeeding Support Group

Mercy Hospital offers a peer-topeer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 –11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art’s Manes Education Center. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, Feb. 15, noon-3 p.m.

Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators to explore and discover different materials to create original artwork.

Comic showcase

Baldwin Lions Club is back with its first fundraiser of the year, Sunday, Feb. 16

In collaboration with the Massapequa and Levittown clubs, all are invited to a stand-up comedy fundraiser at Governor’s Comedy Club. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. $25. 90 Division Ave., Levittown. For more information, call Naresh Singh at (917) 6977113.

Paint a Penguin

Kids in grades 6-12 can channel their inner artist with a fun painting party on Thursday, Feb. 20, 3–4:30 p.m., at the Baldwin Public Library. Create an adorable winter penguin painting with the help of Painting With a Twist. Don’t miss out. Registration required. Register at baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228. 2385 Grand Ave.

Giggles and Grooves

Of course, he’s always eager to return to his standup roots. He had concluded his previous tour, “Irregardless,” at The Paramount in November2023, in a benefit event for The Alonso Foundation, a nonprofit group founded by Mets first baseman Pete Alonso and his wife, Haley, to help combat bullying, cyberbullying, animal abuse and other societal ills. So if you love the King of Queens’ hilarious, spot-on takes on jobs, relationships, and the petty annoyances of everyday life, then don’t miss your chance to hear his newest jokes live $99.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and make art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum. org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.

Bring the young ones, 6 months to 4 years to join Miss Rebecca for a fun, music-filled session at Baldwin Public Library. Use instruments, scarves, puppets a parachute and bubbles at the Giggles and Grooves session, Saturday, Feb. 22, noon-12:45 p.m. Registration required. Register at baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228. 2385 Grand Ave.

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.; Monday through Saturday, Feb. 17-22, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. It is 3017 in this futuristic, musical retelling of “Cinderella.” She’s now a space engineer looking to revolutionize space travel. When the Prince holds a space parade, Cinderella saves it by helping fix the Prince’s spaceship. Cinderella knows it’s the perfect opportunity to show the Prince her new hyper warp speed engine.

But first, she’ll have to keep her evil stepmother from throwing a wrench in her plans! $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Oil Painting Classes

Let your creativity shine at painting classes offered by the Town of Hempstead, through May 5, at Baldwin Park. Registratiion ongoing now. Visit hempsteadny.gov/261/ Online-Registration for more information and to register. 3232 Grand Ave.

In

concert

Jupiter String Quartet returns to Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, Friday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. The intimate group of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister), and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brotherin-law) are brought together by ties both familial and musical.

The ensemble brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works shaped by bold musicality and deeply meaningful thematic inspirations, including Warmth from Other Suns by Carlos Simon; String Quartet No. 3, Glitter, Doom, Shards, Memory by Shulamit; and String Quartet No. 13 in B-flat Major, Op. 130 with the Grosse Fuge by Ludwig van Beethoven. 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Having an event?

A Band Called Honalee

Plaza Theatricals welcomes the modern-day folk trio, Sunday, Feb. 23 , 2:30 p.m. Inspired by the music and legacy of Peter, Paul & Mary, the ensemble offers up an energetic interactive tribute. Satisfying diehard PPM lovers as well as newcomers to this wonderful era of music, their concer features all of PPM’s beloved hits, including “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Blowing in the Wind,” and of course “Puff The Magic Dragon.”

With stirring vocal harmonies and polished showmanship, they also offers favorites from Bob Dylan, The Byrds, Pete Seeger, Joni Mitchell, The Mamas & The Papas, Joan Baez, The Weavers, and more. $40, $35 seniors. Groove along at Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit plazatheatrical. com.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.

Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum. org.

Hempstead House tour

Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, Feb. 16, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST

13, 2025 —

COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST, SERIES 2005-NC1

ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Pltf. vs. ALISON KUPISZ, et al, Defts. Index

#7427/2012. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated Feb. 5, 2019 and order appointing substitute referee dated March 24, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr., Mineola, NY on March 11, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a 2164 Grove St., Baldwin, NY 11510. Said property located at the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Brooklyn Ave. with the westerly side of Grove St., being a plot 75 ft. x 125 ft. Approx. amt. of judgment is $619,491.71 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. MARK RICCIARDI, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., 224, Syosset, NY. #102089 151407

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Notice is hereby given that SEALED PROPOSALS for:

BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

UPGRADE AT BALDWIN MIDDLE SCHOOL SED#

28-02-10-03-0-012-037 CONTRACT E –ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION WORK

Will be received until 10:00 am prevailing time on February 26, 2025, at the Business Office of the Baldwin Union Free School District, located at 960 Hastings Street, Baldwin, NY 11510, at which time and place where all bids received will be publicly opened and read and where the identity of all offerers will be publicly disclosed.

Complete digital sets of Bidding Documents, drawings, and specifications, may be obtained online beginning February 12, 2025 as a download at the following website: melville.h2mplanroom.co

m The Owner has decided to solicit bids from one contractor in accordance with General Municipal Law § 101, the Bidder shall submit with its bid a separate sealed list that names each subcontractor that the bidder will use to perform work in the contract, and

the agreed-upon amount to be paid to each, for: (A) Plumbing and gas fitting, (B) steam heating, hot water heating, ventilating and air conditioning apparatus and (C) electric wiring and standard illuminating fixtures. After the low bid is announced, the sealed list of subcontractors submitted with such low bid shall be opened and the names of such subcontractors shall be announced, and thereafter any change of subcontractor or agreedupon amount to be paid to each shall require the approval of the public owner, upon a showing presented to the public owner of legitimate construction need shall include, but not be limited to, a change to sub-contractor status as determined pursuant to paragraph (e) of subdivision two of section two hundred twenty-two of the labor law or the subcontractor has become otherwise unwilling, unable or unavailable to perform the subcontract. The sealed lists of subcontractors submitted by all other bidders shall be returned to them after the contract award.

Complete sets of Bidding Documents, Drawings and Specifications, may be obtained from REVplans, 28 Church Street, Unit 7, Warwick, NY 10990 Tel: 1-845-651-3845, upon depositing the sum of $100 (One Hundred Dollars) for each combined set of documents. Checks or money orders shall be made payable to Baldwin Union Free School District. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms in the Instructions to Bidders to all submitting bids. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs.

Please note REVplans (melville.h2mplanroom.co m) is the designated location and means for distributing and obtaining all bid package information. Only those Contract Documents obtained in this manner will enable a prospective bidder to be identified as an official plan holder of record. The Provider takes no responsibility for the completeness of Contract Documents obtained from other sources. Contract Documents obtained from other sources may not be accurate or may not contain addenda that may have been issued. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at melville.h2mplanroom.co m Plan holders who have paid for hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard

copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda.

Bids must be made in the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications that must be enclosed in sealed envelopes bearing the name of the job and name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to: BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, clearly marked on the outside: Bid For: Electrical Service Upgrade at Baldwin Middle School. Each proposal submitted must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract. Certification of bonding company is required for this bid, see Instructions for Bidders section. Each bidder shall agree to hold his/her bid price for forty-five (45) days after the formal bid opening.

A pre-bid conference and walk through is scheduled for February 17, 2025, at 3:30 pm at the project site. Potential bidders are asked to gather at the main entrance to the school, at which time they shall be escorted to the area of work. This meeting is not mandatory; however, it is highly recommended that all potential bidders attend. It is the Board’s intention, and it reserves its right to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, providing the required security who, to the Board’s satisfaction, meets the experience, technical, budget and all specification requirements and has references and responses from references that are deemed acceptable by the Board. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or alternatives, to waive any informality and to accept such bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or alternatives which, in the opinion of the Board, are in the best interests of the School District.

Board of Education

Baldwin Union Free School District 960 Hastings Street Baldwin, New York 11510 151491

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICT-WIDE TOILET RENOVATIONS AT BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICT-WIDE TOILET

RENOVATIONS AT BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL SED CONTROL #

28-02-10-03-0-009-042

STEELE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SED CONTROL #

28-02-10-03-0-011-029

BALDWIN MIDDLE

SCHOOL SED CONTROL #

28-02-10-03-0-012-034

CONTRACT G4, G6, & G7:

GENERAL

CONSTRUCTION WORK

CONTRACT E4 & E7:

ELECTRICAL WORK

Will be received until 11:00 AM on February 26, 2025 at the Business Office of the Baldwin Union Free School District, located at 960 Hastings Street, Baldwin, NY 11510.

Complete digital sets of Bidding Documents, drawings, and specifications, may be obtained online beginning February 5, 2025 as a download at the following website: melville.h2mplanroom.co m

Complete sets of Bidding Documents, Drawings and Specifications, may be obtained from REVplans, 28 Church Street, Unit 7, Warwick, NY 10990 Tel: 1-845-651-3845, upon depositing the sum of $100 (One Hundred Dollars) for each combined set of documents. Checks or money orders shall be made payable to Baldwin Union Free School District. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms in the Instructions to Bidders to all submitting bids. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Please note REVplans (melville.h2mplanroom.co m) is the designated location and means for distributing and obtaining all bid package information. Only those Contract Documents obtained in this manner will enable a prospective bidder to be identified as an official plan holder of record. The Provider takes no responsibility for the completeness of Contract Documents obtained from other sources. Contract Documents obtained from other sources may not be accurate or may not contain addenda that may have been issued All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at melville.h2mplanroom.co m. Plan holders who have paid for hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard

copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda.

Bids must be made in the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications that must be enclosed in sealed envelopes bearing the name of the job and name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to: BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, clearly marked on the outside: Bid For: District Wide Toilet Renovations - Rebid Each proposal submitted must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract.

Certification of bonding company is required for this bid, see Instructions for Bidders section. Each bidder shall agree to hold his/her bid price for fortyfive (45) days after the formal bid opening.

Pre-bid meetings and walk-throughs are scheduled for the dates and times below:

Baldwin High School: February 12, 2025, at 3:00pm Steele Elementary: February 12, 2025, at 4:30pm Baldwin Middle School: February 13, 2025, at 3:00pm Potential bidders are asked to gather at the main entrance, at which time they will be directed to the areas of work. This meeting is not mandatory; however, it is highly recommended that all potential bidders attend.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICT-WIDE TOILET RENOVATIONS AT BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

It is the Board’s intention and it reserves its right to award the contract to the lowest responsible qualified bidder, providing the required security who, to the Board’s satisfaction, meets the experience, technical, budget and all specification requirements and has references and responses from references that are deemed acceptable by the Board. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or alternatives, to waive any informality and to accept such bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or

alternatives which, in the opinion of the Board, are in the best interests of the School District. Board of Education Baldwin Union Free School District 960 Hastings Street Baldwin, New York 11510 151464

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF LONG BEACH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2, Plaintiff against BAC REALTY, INC., et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered August 31, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 3367 Harbor Point Road, Baldwin, NY 11510. Sec 54 Block 352 Lot 347. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,289,227.25 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 002520/2017. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Keith LaVallee, Esq., Referee File # SPSJN381 151531

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Mortgage Assets Management, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Nassau County Public Administrator, as the Limited Administrator of the Estate of James McCory; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 12, 2024 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 March 13, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1354 Short Place, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section: 36 Block: 236-1 Lot: 32 and 255. Approximate amount of judgment $696,646.80 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 001173/2014. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Christine Grillo, 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: January 29, 2025 151533

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. REO LEND I LLC, Plaintiffagainst- 128 FOREST AVENUE LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 30, 2024 and entered on January 8, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 19, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the southerly side of Forest Avenue, distant 100 feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of Forest Avenue with the easterly side of Powell Street; being a plot 125 feet by 50 feet by 125 feet by 50 feet.

Section: 55 Block: 342 Lot: 47

Said premises known as 128 FOREST AVENUE, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575 Approximate amount of lien $437,898.90 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 604964/2024. LISA B. SINGER, ESQ., Referee The Camporeale Law Group PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 585 Stewart Avenue, 770, Garden City, NY 11530 {* BALDWIN HE*} 151450

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. CARRINGTON D. BROCK A/K/A CARRINGTON BROCK, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 28, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1109 Cramer Court, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 36, Block 523 and Lot 70. Approximate amount of judgment is $400,642.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600506/2023. Cash will not be accepted. Lisa S. Poczik, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151529

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers

has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.

Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

COMPANION PART-TIME , Flexible

Schedule. Few Hours. For Disabled Middle-Aged Man. $16/hr. Long Beach Area 516-474-4556.

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER : Proficiency Quickbooks, 2/ 3 Days/ Week, Flexible. $20-$30/ Hr. Send resume cbc@catalinabeachclub.com Call 516-239-2150

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City.

We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

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

RECEPTIONIST/ P/T: SEASONAL, Warm, Friendly, Excellent People Skills, Office Work/ Customer Service. $16-$24/

HomesHERALD

TO MARKET

Nailing down the permits

Q. We completely rebuilt in 1996, and are ready to retire and sell. Our real estate agent told us they checked our permit records and it was never signed off. Although it’s a long story, our first contractor went to jail and destroyed our original permit papers. The second contractor never got a plumbing permit or electrical sign-offs, even though they had people do the work. Is this going to be a big problem to get everything signed off, because we want to sell within the year to take advantage of the market right now? What can you advise?

A. Sounds like you went through a lot. Most people tell me they could write a book about their experience. You need to see your building department records and get copies of the signed and sealed plans. Many municipalities keep records either in paper form, which you may have to pay for copies of, or microfilm or computer files.

Then speak with your inspector to find out what they think needs to be done. Most will be very helpful, and allow for the process to continue, asking you to hire a plumber to get a permit, which involves your notarized signature so you know it’s being done. In way too many cases, the plumber or contractor says it was done when it really wasn’t, so most municipalities require the owner’s signature on permit applications so the building department and owner are aware that the process is being done and is not false.

The plumber needs to see your bathrooms, kitchen, heating equipment and any other plumbing to be sure it meets the plumbing code (and building code). The same process must be done with an electrician, but most building departments ask for a certification from a private agency, not your electrician, since most building departments don’t have an electrical inspector. The reason for this is that one of the two leading causes of fire is electrical (the other being use of the kitchen) so your local government wants nothing to do with the liability for fire safety.

You’ll find that almost everyone in this process wants to avoid responsibility as much as possible. You may have to either call for an inspection agency yourself or, if you suspect that there could be questionable electrical work, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and correct before hiring an agency to detect, if you elect. The private agency charges a few hundred dollars, usually, depending on the number of rooms and outdoor items, like air conditioning condensers, pool equipment and landscape lights, which must also be inspected. After all this is done, you may be able to get a final inspection and a sign-off and certificate from your building department, unless … your building department makes you get plans and a new survey redrawn and updated to the most recent code, which is complicated, time-consuming and expensive — in the thousands of dollars — before you can get a final inspection. Allow plenty of time.

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Our police officers’ mental health must be a priority

police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, yet too often they do not receive the essential mental health support they need by nature of their profession. This can exact a toll, both personally and professionally.

Beverly J. Anderson, clinical director of the Metropolitan Police Employee Assistance program, once said, “No human being, no matter how healthy, welltrained or welladjusted, is immune to the long-term stress of sudden critical incidents.”

Police Benevolent Association leaders in the Nassau County Police Department and the New York City and State Police have discussed this major issue with me. They shared how the repetitive trauma that police officers endure from responding to violent crimes, domestic violence incidents, car accidents and other life-threatening situations can have a serious impact on their well-being. It is our responsibility to ensure that we establish effective statewide counseling and resources to help officers process

Nthese experiences. That’s why I am sponsoring legislation to establish a formal peer-to-peer mental health support program for police officers in New York state. This legislation is about supporting the men and women who protect us every day, by ensuring that they have the mental health resources they need to serve effectively.

The Nassau County Police Benevolent Association has strongly advocated for this initiative, and I was honored when they asked me to sponsor the legislation.

We need to establish a peer-to-peer mental health support program.

Since I took office in 2019, I have expressed concern about the uptick in suicides among officers, many of whom retired after long careers on the force. Sadly, suicides continue to rise. I was pleased to see that Tommy Shevlin was elected president of the Nassau County PBA in 2021. It was the right time for an officer with his mental health background to take the lead. As a delegate, he has been instrumental in addressing mental health issues among his fellow officers. Shevlin has encouraged officers to receive the assistance and support they deserve, because a healthy police officer is a more effective one, and an asset to all that he or she is sworn to protect and serve.

The legislation is in memory of Lt. Joseph Banish, a State Trooper who died by suicide. That inspired his brother, Jim Banish, to honor his memory by traveling around the state, and the country, to establish programs that help officers deal with mental health issues. Shevlin and Banish became fast friends, united in a goal to help heal the stress and trauma that officers endure in the course of their work.

This bill directs the Division of Criminal Justice Services to expand a peersupport program in which trained officers counsel fellow officers struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety and grief. By creating a structured, departmentally approved system, we can ensure that officers have a safe, accessible and effective resource to help them navigate the mental health challenges of their profession.

The need for such a program is clear. The emotional toll of policing is well documented, and when trauma goes unaddressed, it can lead to severe consequences, including depression, substance abuse, addictive behavior and even suicide. A recent report on police suicides in Suffolk County highlighted the urgent need for better mental health support within law enforcement. Officers feel more comfortable confiding in a peer who

understands their experiences, rather than seeking help from an external mental health professional. My bill is written for this reality, and provides a structured, confidential avenue for officers to receive the support they need from those who truly understand their struggles.

Confidentiality is a critical aspect of this legislation, ensuring that officers feel safe seeking help without fear of professional repercussions. However, the bill also establishes clear boundaries. Confidentiality does not apply in situations involving a court order, criminal activity, threats of self-harm or harm to others, or the abuse of vulnerable individuals. This strikes a fair balance between protecting officers’ privacy and ensuring public safety.

This effort builds on the success of the federal COPS Counseling Act, which passed with bipartisan support in 2021. It is time for New York to follow suit, and provide all of our police officers with effective, accessible and trustworthy peer-to-peer counseling.

I have made this bill a priority, and I’m finding increasing support from other Assembly members and state senators. It’s time to show our law enforcement officers that their mental well-being matters. When our officers are healthy, our communities are safer.

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

High anxiety is gripping many Americans

ot that anxiety is funny, but sometimes it helps to laugh at ourselves.

In 1977, Mel Brooks did just that, with his movie “High Anxiety,” starring Brooks as a wildly neurotic shrink and Cloris Leachman as his mustachioed, militaristic nurse at the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous.

Now, either you think that’s funny or you’re already writing me a letter. But I speak from experience. I’m an anxious person, and according to the American Psychiatric Association, 40 percent of Americans said last year that they were more anxious than the year before.

I was an anxious kid, and teen, and adult. I come by my anxiety honestly, from my nervous parents and grandparents. Most days, I do breathing exercises before I open my eyes in the morning. How do you know if you have anxiety? Do you have a pulse and a moral conscience? You’re in.

Officially, according to psychothera-

pist Linda Hubbard in an article on the Mayo Clinic website, you might have trouble concentrating, you may feel tense or restless, or experience muscle tension or headaches or lightheaded or sleeplessness.

Anxiety treatment has become big business. As I write this — case in point — I just got a pop-up ad from an online health letter selling “proven stress-busting techniques.” The barrage of anti-anxiety messaging is endless. We have to be careful consumers. I offer these words to commiserate and say you are not alone. These are troubling times, and nearly everyone I know is feeling some stress or anxiety. It is permissible now to discuss these feelings openly, and there is relief in sharing.

A nd its treatment is big business. Anti-anxiety messaging is endless.

“shell-shocked,” and ostracized. Now antianxiety tactics and treatments are freely marketed and talked about and posted. Today’s society and culture have produced more anxiety, and more discussions of anxiety online, on TV and in social media. Anxiety has become monetized, from advertisements for medications to promotions for apps that control anxiety and foods and selfhelp books that promise to ease our emotional pain. Since the pandemic, we have had good reason to feel anxious. Our peace of mind is under attack, by everything from rising waters and emerging viruses to political dysfunction and the assault on our democratic values.

work, sometimes and to some degree. For those of us whose anxiety is triggered by the confederacy of dunces who have taken the political stage in Washington, eventually we can vote, but day to day, we can turn off the cacophony of news and social media that surely make us feel worse. I read a few newspapers to keep informed, but I no longer watch much TV, unless it makes me laugh (in a good way). Throw everything at the problem and see what works. But don’t try to tough it out. Be selective in using the internet. Let social media be your tool and not the other way around.

Each of us, in our own lives, can find reasonable and healthy ways to reduce anxiety. Many of them are free, like turning away from devices and toward people. When we need professional help, we can find it. Medications work for millions of people.

There is no real history tracking anxiety. Maybe Shakespeare was anxious; he did create Hamlet, one of the most deeply anxious characters in literature. Maybe cowboys who rode the range felt stress about the roundups. Perhaps our storied astronauts suffered these symptoms. It’s worse to suffer in silence, but that was always the expectation, especially for men. Soldiers who suffered debilitating anxiety in World War I were considered

I am a foot soldier in the struggle with anxiety. What works for me? I walk outdoors as often and as far as I can, weather permitting. The steps, one by one, for a mile or two, seem to ease tension.

I bought one of the apps that promise to reduce anxiety. It offers really boring stories read by monotonic narrators, which help you unwind and even fall asleep. The app also features yoga exercises and various sounds like rain on a roof and light piano music and ocean waves. In my own experience, all of these

It doesn’t hurt to have a laugh or two each day. Comedians like Sarah Silverman and the late Robin Williams carved careers out of their struggles with anxiety. The Apple TV series “Shrinking” has some laugh-out-loud moments. Maybe start by streaming a copy of “High Anxiety” and checking into the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous for a few hours.

Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

JUDY GRiFFiN RANDi KREiss

Established 1994

Incorporating The South Shore Reporter

The Baldwin Citizen

Hernesto Galdamez

Multi

Multi

micHelle auclair

2

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax: (516) 569-4942

Web: www.liherald.com

HERALD

The concern about a county civilian militia

the recent controversy surrounding Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of an armed civilian unit has sparked intense debate.

Blakeman unveiled a plan last March to deputize gun-owning residents for what he termed “the protection of human life and property during an emergency.”

Democratic lawmakers in Nassau County have now taken legal action, filing a lawsuit in State Supreme Court against what they describe as an “illegal, taxpayer-funded civilian militia.” The concerns focus on not only the legality of the initiative, but also on Blakeman’s refusal to provide clear and essential details about the program.

While opinions on the concept of a civilian militia may vary, what should trouble every resident, regardless of political affiliation, is the disturbing lack of transparency surrounding this initiative. It is not merely the existence of the militia that is at issue, but the secrecy and lack of accountability with which it has been formed and implemented.

As representatives of the people, these lawmakers have a duty to ensure that government actions are conducted openly and lawfully. Their inability to obtain basic information about this unit — who is being recruited, what their training entails, the weapons they will carry, and the total cost to taxpayers — should alarm everyone, regardless of where they stand on the issue of deputizing civilians.

State law in New York is explicit in

letters

defining who can wield police powers: only professional, sworn law enforcement officers. By contrast, the county’s unit consists of volunteers who are required only to be licensed gun owners and complete 12 hours of classroom and firearms training.

This falls far short of the rigorous training required of sworn officers, raising critical concerns about competency and public safety. If these volunteers are granted the authority to use deadly force and make arrests, then their selection, training and oversight should be subject to the highest levels of scrutiny.

Blakeman has attempted to dismiss the lawsuit as “frivolous” and an attack on the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement personnel. But his response sidesteps the central issue. No one is questioning the dedication or service history of these individuals. What is being questioned is the manner in which the program has been conceived and implemented — behind closed doors, without legislative approval, and without adequate public oversight.

The county has stated that these deputies will only be deployed in emergencies to protect critical infrastructure, not to patrol streets or manage protests. But without a transparent, codified framework governing their deployment, there are no guarantees that those boundaries will be respected. History has shown that when emergency powers are granted without sufficient oversight, they can be misused or expanded beyond their original intent.

Has Peter King forgotten Jan. 6?

To the Editor:

I just read Peter King’s column in last week’s Herald, “An inauguration that was decidedly different,” and it made me sick. But King is correct in stating that this inauguration was different. Unlike President Trump four years ago, President Biden was there to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power. There was no denial of who won the election. Biden upheld our country’s grand tradition.

On Jan. 6, 2021, police officers were killed and injured by people doing Mr. Trump’s bidding. The lives of Vice President Mike Pence, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and all of the members of Congress were at risk. The brave Capitol Police did their duty to protect them, and the thanks they get is a president pardoning their attackers and the people they protected turning their backs on them.

I’d warn Mr. King: Trump’s presidency is a moment in time, but eventually it will pass, and history will not be kind to those like you. Your grand-

Nassau County is not lacking for law enforcement resources. With roughly 2,600 sworn officers, the Nassau County Police Department is the 12th-largest local police force in the country. There is also an existing structure for civilian involvement — the Nassau County Auxiliary Police and the County Community Emergency Response Team, both of which operate unarmed and under professional supervision. Given these resources, what specific gap is the militia intended to fill?

County residents deserve answers. How were these individuals selected? What specific criteria were used? What safeguards exist to ensure their proper conduct? What is the financial burden on taxpayers? Until these questions are answered, the program lacks legitimacy. The lack of transparency is not a partisan issue — it is a fundamental issue of governance. When taxpayer money is being used to fund an initiative that involves armed civilians exercising government-sanctioned power, full disclosure should — must — be the bare minimum. If the program is truly necessary, it should withstand public scrutiny and meet the highest standards of accountability.

Blakeman and his administration must provide the information being sought by community members and lawmakers alike. Without this transparency, concerns about the legality and safety of the program will only continue to grow. The people of Nassau County deserve to know exactly what is being done in their name and with their money. Anything less is unacceptable.

opinions University leaders should not remain neutral

after the congressional hearings that challenged university presidents on campus activism amid allegations of antisemitism, many institutions adopted policies of “institutional neutrality.” Boards of trustees resolved that they would not comment on political issues such as international conflicts, investments in certain countries, and policies proposed by elected officials. Many of the resolutions cited principles enunciated by the University of Chicago. According to the Chicago principles, university leaders should not engage in speech that would appear to infringe on others’ speech. The university should be a protected, neutral place for the expression of all ideas, a safe space for “strong disagreement, independent judgment, and the questioning of stubborn assumptions.”

(“Report on the University’s Role in Political and Social Action,” University of Chicago, 1967.)

There are good reasons for this. When a board or president issues a statement, it can stifle contrary views; it can suppress debate. This would violate the university’s responsibility to foster

critical thinking. Making statements about some issues, but not others, could indicate that some deserve comment but others do not.

But the Kalven Report, which affirmed the University of Chicago’s mission of free inquiry and independence, did not prohibit leaders from commenting on public policies that would affect institutional autonomy and the freedom of scholars to pursue truth no matter where that pursuit may lead. So, “no” to taking partisan positions, but “yes” to evaluating proposals such as those in the much-discussed Project 2025, prepared by the Heritage Foundation, that infringe on the purposes of education.

TAnd it is the home for critical thinking and critics who ask “why?” and “why not?” In these ways, a university is as much about the advancement of ethical character and engaged citizenship as it is about preparation for careers and commerce.

he muchdiscussed Project 25 infringes on the purposes of education.

I agree with these principles. Neutrality does not mean silence. A campus president should not remain silent in the face of proposals that would undermine free speech. A university president has an obligation to question proposals that would undercut quality controls. It is the responsibility of a president and the board to protect the university as the home of critics even as it is not itself a voice of criticism.

A university has three fundamental roles. It is the creator of new knowledge as well as of new professionals. It is the curator of knowledge in all its forms.

LeTTers

kids will have to explain why their grandfather sided with a man who tried to take down democracy instead of standing up to him.

Rest assured, many of us will never forget what happened on Jan. 6. We will continue to fight the good fight. At the same time, career politicians like Mr. King will sacrifice their integrity (if they ever had any) to support a man who wants to be king.

VINCENT

MASTROTA

Sea Cliff

Whose golden age?

To the Editor:

After reading Congressman Emeritus King’s op-ed, I have reservations about his lauding President Trump. I wrote Trump before he took office, saying that it would be groundbreaking if he became the president of all the people. His legacy would be the destruction of the partisanship that is slowly strangling the USA. I received a very hopeful reply signed by the president-elect.

As of today, I realize this was a dream. I and many like me, ordinary hardworking Americans, have been scammed.

King defends most of Trump’s and his minions’ draconian attacks on the very roots of what’s left of our republic. Revenge, and creating turmoil and anxiety, are the order of the day. Religion is being weaponized, and censorship, which Trump says we will now be free of, is being spread through the agencies of government, right down to teachers in our schools.

Being poor, with skin of a different tone, dispossessed or a peaceful immigrant, is no longer acceptable. The norm will soon become the knock on the door, the presentation of “your papers” and a disappearance in the night. History proves that while we’re not there yet, we are heading down this slippery slope.

King writes of Trump’s new “golden age.” On that term we agree, but we define it differently. The only gold I see is his greedy cadre of rich men grabbing all the power they can lay their hands on. They know that power breeds money. They are pigs at the trough.

King writes that the functions he attended in Washington were filled with “extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.” Yet the president is but three weeks in office, and many who supported him are reacting

Across the country, governors and state legislators promote policies that proscribe what subjects can be taught and what books can be read. Project 2025 is a “blueprint” for multiple changes in federal policy related to knowledge and expertise. It alleges, without evidence, a radical leftwing bias in university teaching. At the same time, it would require a selective teaching of American history by omitting mention of race and slavery. It also would substitute religious belief for scientific evidence, including weather forecasting and study of the environment. It would substitute political tests for professional expertise, stifling critical thinking and free speech.

The Project calls for the abolition of the U.S. Department of Education, and reclassifying federal scientists as political appointees. It would turn over consumer protections from predatory proprietary schools to the states and retract the “borrower-defense” provisions of the federal loan system put in place to protect students from for-profit schools

and lenders.

Project 2025 also calls for eliminating Head Start; overhauling the educational accreditation system, reducing its political neutrality; and rolling back Title IX protections for sexual assault survivors and LGBTQ students. It calls for prosecuting all government agencies, colleges, corporations and other private employers that maintain diversity policies.

Public education was established to ensure an informed citizenry, essential to a functioning democracy. Project 2025 would deny freedoms in favor of authoritarian dictates. Instead of supporting public education, it would allow for the banning of books and restrictions on independent inquiry.

Project 2025 should be studied and debated. We should affirm the purpose and benefits of education to society and the individual. Project 2025 limits rights, opposes inconvenient history and science, and would impose biased views. We can be passionate in the defense of academic values without becoming politically partisan. Only by advocating for freedom of inquiry and free speech will we preserve them, and our democracy. On this, university leaders should not be neutral.

Dr. Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and co-author of “Letters to Students: What it Means to be a College Graduate,” Rowman & Littlefield, 2024.

adversely to the confusion, disappointment and the “shock and awe” of his policies and his erratic statements. Many are feeling buyer’s remorse.

King is an intelligent man who did much for his constituents when he served the public. It is difficult to comprehend how he cannot sense that this president is quickly on his way to

becoming a clear and present danger to the republic King served.

King and I probably both pray, in our own ways, for the same things, a better country and a peaceful world. It’s good to dream!

Framework by Tim Baker

At the annual month-long celebration of Black history — Freeport

MARK C. NUCCIO Bellmore