DEADLINE APRIL 1ST
Hope City, five years later
Page 20
Baldwin wins thrilling state title game
By ToNY BEllISSIMo tbellissimo@liherald.com
The ultimate goal of Baldwin’s girls’ basketball team was made clear on the opening day of practice Nov. 17, and that was to win the final game of the season.
On Sunday morning at Hudson Valley Community College in upstate Troy, the Lady Bruins turned a dream into reality with a thrilling 50-48 roller coaster victory over Aquinas Institute to capture the New York state Class AA title. Senior Monique Echols scored the game’s final 5 points, including the goahead layup off a bounce pass from senior Payton Dulin with 1:35 remaining.
“It was a crazy game, and I’m super excited we were able to end this on our own terms,”
Dulin said. “We’ve won four counties and three Long Islands in my high school career, and no celebration has felt like this. It’s the best of the best.”
It was Baldwin’s first state championship in seven years, and third all-time.
“We won two wars this weekend against privateschool opponents, and I’m so proud of this group,” head coach Tom Catapano said. “They’ve etched themselves into the history books among the greatest Baldwin teams. They didn’t crumble under immense pressure.”
Junior Alyssa Polonia carried Baldwin to a 32-23 halftime lead with an extraordinary 4-for-4 shooting performance from behind the 3-point arc as she accounted for half of the team’s offense. She fin-
ished with a game-high 18 points. Dulin added 11 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists, and Echols had 8 points.
“We’re just overcome with emotion,” said Polonia, who scored 17 points in a 62-55 win over Central Catholic in Saturday morning’s semifinal. “It doesn’t feel real. There’s going to be ups and downs in a game of this stature, and we just kept our focus and had each other’s backs.”
The Bruins (24-2) led Aquinas, a school in Rochester, by as many as a dozen points after Dulin opened the second quarter with a long 3 for a 24-12 advantage. Polonia was automatic from 3-point range in the opening quarter, and added two more field goals to account for 16 of the team’s 21 points.
“She was like Steph Curry,”
Dulin said of Polonia. “She rose to the moment.”
Baldwin’s lead was 32-23 at halftime, but with senior Maddy O’Toole (15 points) and sophomore Loren Green (15) spearheading the charge, Aquinas dominated the third quarter. The Irish outscored the Bruins 20-7 in the third quarter, and O’Toole’s buzzerbeating trey gave Aquinas a 4-point lead with eight minutes to go.
“Coach always tells us to never get too high or too low,” Echols said. “He just said to stay poised and to go out and
win the fourth quarter. We worked so hard and waited years to get this far — we wanted to finish the job.”
Dulin, who had 22 points in the semifinal win, went 4 for 4 from the foul line in the opening minute of the fourth to create a deadlock at 43. Aquinas answered by scoring 5 of the next 7 points to take a 48-45 lead, but senior Samiyah Wright’s basket with 3:38 remaining would be the last points Baldwin would allow.
“They had a great third quarter, but we held them to
Kevin Yang/Herald
the Lady Bruins scored the final 5 points of Sunday’s nYS Class aa girls’ basketball title game to beat aquinas institute, 50-48, at Hudson Valley Community College.
Hablamos Español
What to expect in April at Baldwin Public Library
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
As April approaches, the Baldwin Public Library is gearing up to host a variety of events for all ages. From movie screen-
1Movie Showtimes: The Great Gatsby (2013 & 1974)
Baldwin Public Library will celebrate the centennial of “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald with a series of events throughout April.
The 2013 adaptation of The Great Gatsby, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, and Tobey Maguire, will be screened on Friday, April 4, at 1:00 p.m.
The 1974 adaptation, featuring Robert Redford, Mia Farrow, and Sam Waterston, will be shown on Friday, April 11, at 1:00 p.m.No registration is required for either screening.
2
The Birds and the Bees (Children, Grades 4-7)
Beanies Buddies will present The Birds
ings and henna workshops to book discussions, library patrons will have plenty of opportunities to engage and explore new activities this spring.
and the Bees, a hands-on STEM workshop combining science, creativity, and environmental awareness on Monday, April 14, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Participants will learn about honey bee behavior, their role in pollination, and their importance in maintaining biodiversity. After studying their habitat needs, students will build their own bee hotel to provide a nesting space for solitary bees. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to create a bird’s nest, further contributing to local wildlife support. Registration begins on Tuesday, April 1.
3
Henna Art Workshop (Teens, Grades 6-12)
Baldwin Public Library will host a Henna Art Workshop in honor of National Arab American Heritage Month on Wednesday, April 16, from
The Herald highlights five upcoming events at the library. For details on more events, visit BaldwinPL.org.
12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Presented by Making Faces Parties, this interactive event will introduce attendees to the history and cultural significance of henna. Participants will practice designing their own patterns before using a henna cone to decorate cookies with frosting. Registration begins on Tuesday, April 1.
4
Let’s discuss The Great Gatsby
On Wednesday, April 16, at 7:00 p.m., Reference Librarian René Giminiani will lead a discussion on The Great Gatsby, a novel now considered an American classic. Along with the book, the discussion will cover two film adaptations: the 1974 version starring Robert Redford & Mia Farrow and the 2013 version directed by Baz Luhrmann, starring Leonardo DiCaprio & Carey Mulligan. Books will
be available at the Circulation Desk. Registration for this event began on Wednes day, March 19, and walk-ins are welcome.
5
Sunday Music: East River Blues Band
Enjoy a live performance by the East River Blues Band on Sunday, April 27, at 2:00 p.m. Known for their soulful blues sound, the band features hypnotizing harmonica, whiskey ballads, and blues guitar. Their repertoire includes original songs as well as covers of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Eric Clapton, and more. Tickets are required for this performance and can be reserved in advance by calling the Adult Reference Desk at 516-223-6228, Ext. 145.
22nd annual fashion show raises more than $20,000
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
More than $20,000 was raised at the 22nd annual Bethany House Fashion Show fundraiser, an event that has become a beacon of hope for women overcoming homelessness.
Bethany House, a Baldwin-based nonprofit dedicated to helping women transition from homelessness to stability, hosted its annual fundraiser on March 19 at the Rockville Links Club in Rockville Centre.
The event, a cornerstone of the organization’s fundraising efforts, continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its mission to support women experiencing homelessness.
The Bethany House Fashion Show has come a long way since its humble beginnings. According to Lisa King, board member and co-chair of the Development and Communications Committee, the fashion show started as a small, community-supported event.
“When Bethany House first started doing our fashion show fundraiser 22 years ago, it was a small, community-supported event that was held wherever we could find a location that would donate space to us,” King said. “Our Bethany House guests (the homeless women we served—we call them ‘guests’) would often be the models, and clothing was donated from local storeowners and merchants.”
Over the years, the event has grown significantly, with the past 15 years spent
at the Rockville Links Club.
“It is the perfect space for this event, and we sell out every year!” she said. “The models are long-time supporters of Bethany House, and the clothing has generously been donated from Bloomingdale’s for the past three years.”
Other brands like White House/Black Market, Anne Taylor Loft, Estelles, Lord and Taylor, Chicos, and Lucky Finds Boutique in Rockville Centre have also contributed.
The funds raised from the fashion
show go directly toward supporting Bethany House’s various programs, which provide critical resources to the women they serve.
For the women involved, the fashion show is an empowering experience. Initially, many of the models, who are local supporters of Bethany House, are reluctant to participate. But after trying on outfits at Bloomingdale’s and walking the runway, their apprehensions quickly turn into excitement.
King plays a pivotal role in the event,
helping the women change into their outfits, write their bios, and find the perfect clothing during their fittings.
“Many say it is a life-changing event,” King said. “They are left feeling empowered, uplifted, and grateful for the opportunity to help Bethany House. The amount of thank-yous I get afterward is truly heartwarming.”
In addition to the impact on the models, the fashion show plays a key role in raising awareness about the services that Bethany House provides.
“Our annual fashion show is such an empowering event where we always talk about our programs, our guests’ successes, and the community support we receive,” she said. “The guests who attend the event are left well-informed and ready to go out and spread the good word about Bethany House!”
Programs such as emergency and transitional housing, clothing, and safety, to name a few, are just a few of the critical services Bethany House offers.
Looking forward, Bethany House continues to encourage community involvement. King highlighted several key opportunities for engagement.
“We love when community members help our programs thrive, with legal, financial, artistic, and business advice for our guests,” she said. “We often have experts in various fields come in and teach our women necessary tools to apply for jobs, communicate effectively, dress properly, etc.”
Baldwin HS shines in its first DECA competitions
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Baldwin High School’s DECA team made an impressive debut this year, earning top placements at both regional and state competitions despite it being the school’s first year in the program.
DECA, short for Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a global organization that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management, was introduced as part of the Baldwin School District’s School2Career initiative. This program integrates real-world experiences with classroom learning, equipping students with the skills needed for college and future careers.
The school’s inaugural team — consisting of Layla Gentles, June Kreshsvich, Alyssa Ramdass and Solomon Ruff — competed against seasoned participants and quickly proved they could hold their own.
“The Baldwin High School Business Department’s inaugural year in DECA has proven to be a remarkable journey of dedication and achievement,” Gabriella Franza, the assistant director of instructional programs, said. “I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our students … and grateful for the invaluable support of our DECA
advisor, Brendan Malin, who has been a vital part of our success.”
The students began their DECA journey at the Nassau County Regional Competition in December, when three of the four members of the team earned perfect scores in the role-play challenge. Their performance secured them a spot at the New York DECA State Career Conference in Rochester, from March 5 to 7, when they competed against more than 2,600 students from across the state.
During the three-day conference, participants were tested on real-world business scenarios, including marketing strategies and problem-solving exercises. By the end of the competition, Gentles and Ruff placed in the “Top 10 in First Role Play,” earning medals for their efforts. Beyond awards, all four students gained valuable experience in business communication, critical thinking and leadership, district officials said.
“DECA is a program that aligns with our district’s commitment to designing a curriculum that promotes ‘future readiness,’” Shari Camhi, superintendent of the Baldwin school district, said. “The success our students have achieved in the program’s inaugural year in our district is remarkable and deserves recognition.”
Baldwin High School Principal Neil Testa also praised the team’s accomplish-
ments.
“This is such thrilling news for our amazing students and a representation of the incredible work Mr. Malin and the Business Department have led this year,” he said. “This is the first of many achievements for DECA.”
Baldwin High School’s DECA team made an impressive debut, securing top placements at both regional and state competitions.
Courtesy
Baldwin school district
DECA is one of several programs within the district’s School2Career framework. This school year alone, Baldwin students have explored healthcare careers at Hofstra University, visited the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center, and participated in Adelphi University’s Annual Apprentice Challenge, among other opportunities.
Grace Hughes/Herald
Laura Smith walks down the runway with a white top with chevron pants.
Accepting What Is
As estate planners, we consistently meet with people who are suffering from traumatic relationships with their children or grandchildren. Children themselves may become estranged or at odds with parents or their siblings. Sometimes, an in-law is involved that seems to turn the client’s son or daughter into someone completely different from the child they raised. The pain that these clients are going through is palpable.
Some wise sage once said that all pain comes from resistance. Many of these relationship issues may be difficult or impossible to overcome, but one thing we can all do is work on ourselves — by accepting what is. Accepting what is does not mean agreeing with or condoning certain behavior. What it does mean is that you stop saying to yourself that it is not fair, it “should” be otherwise, etc. That will not do you one bit of good and may do you considerable harm. Stress has been called “the silent killer”.
We recall reading a pithy quote a while back that went something like this “when someone disappoints you, you have two choices, you
can either lower your expectations or walk away”. What is disappointment but dashed expectations? Those who learn to expect less are disappointed less.
“Accepting what is” cannot be accomplished overnight. It is a concept or thought process that improves your outlook the more you think about it, work on it and form new neural pathways to forge the new outlook.
Estate planners inevitably become “therapists” for their clients because estate planning involves social relationships. Over the years, we have observed that many social problems occur between the clients two ears. As Shakespeare said in Hamlet “There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” Forget about what’s fair or right and what’s not. You are only hurting yourself. The other person is often blissfully unaware of how you’re feeling. Michael J. Fox, the actor known for his optimism despite suffering from Parkinson’s, put it best when he said “My happiness grows in direct proportion to my acceptance, and in inverse proportion to my expectations”.
News briefs
A 20-year-old man was struck by a car at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Clyde Road in Baldwin, Nassau County police responded to the scene and attempted lifesaving measures before transporting him to a nearby hospital.
Pedestrian struck by car in Baldwin
A 20-year-old man was injured on March 10, after being struck by a car at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Clyde Road in Baldwin, according to police.
According to Nassau County police, officers responded to the scene at 12:50 p.m., where they found the victim semiconscious and suffering from a severe laceration on the top of his right arm.
Officers attempted life-saving measures but were unable to use a tourni-
quet due to the location of the wound. Instead, they applied a bleed-stop kit and packed the wound with gauze to control the bleeding. The victim was transported by a Baldwin Fire Department ambulance to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Police said the driver of the 2017 Nissan Altima, a 20-year-old woman, remained at the scene.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Guide Dog Foundation visits Hangout
The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind brought guide dogs to meet up with Hangout One Happy Place on March 21.
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Courtesy Nassau County Police Department
Courtesy Angela Lucas
HERALD SPORTS
Mission accomplished for Baldwin
only 5 points in the fourth,” Catapano said. “In this day and age, where everyone is so focused on offense when it comes to sports, we showed that defense still wins championships.”
Also in the semifinal win, senior Toni Smith had 10 points and 6 rebounds, and sophomore Ajeya Nicholas added 8 points.
The last time the Bruins won a state crown, in March 2018, current JV head coach and varsity assistant Sarah Pulis was part of its starting five.
“Sarah said winning a state championship is a life-changing experience,” Dulin said. “I can already feel it.”
Junior Alyssa Polonia scored a game-high 18 points.
Kevin Yang/Herald photos
Senior Payton Dulin, above left, who had 11 points in the state final, drove against Aquinas’s Molly O’Toole.
COnTinueD frOM PAge 1
Baldwin celebrated its third state championship in program history and its first in seven years on Sunday at Hudson Valley Community College.
“The
—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown
Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project. psegliny.com/businessfirst
SPORTS
Hofstra softball shows positive signs
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Hofstra softball team struggled out of the gate to open the 2025 season but still has time to ready the ship for its bid to reach the postseason.
The Pride dropped 19 of its first 21 games before charting a four-game winning streak and has the bulk of the remaining Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) schedule ahead to earn one of the six available spots in the conference tournament. The winner of the CAA playoffs will receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, which Hofstra achieved in 2023.
“We definitely have hit some moments of growth and challenges,” said fourth-year head coach Adrienne Clark, whose team took 2-of-3 games from first-place Delaware last weekend to stand at 3-6 in the CAA with 18 league games remaining. “We’re trying not to focus on the outcomes as much and focus on the things that we can control and our adjustments within.”
adjustment entering the season with the loss of ace pitcher Julia Apsel, who was an integral part of the 2023 CAA championship squad and is using her final year of college eligibility at Florida State.
Junior Emma Falen is the team’s new number one pitcher after transferring from UC Riverside. The Folsom, Calif. native recorded eight strikeouts in a 4-1 win against Towson on March 14 to earn the Pride their first league win.
The pitching staff also includes freshman Carley Ernst, a two-time Lancaster-Lebanon League First Team selection during her high school career in Pennsylvania. Senior Haley Venturini, a Rhode Island native, has battled injuries over the past two seasons and Clark is hoping she can play a key part of the rotation down the stretch of the season.
The Pride’s offense returned some key pieces from last year’s 23-26 team including junior shortstop Alanna Morse, a Mepham High School graduate, who hit a home run in Hofstra’s 11-3
Feb. 16. She also has been solid anchoring the infield recording a .932 fielding percentage last season as a sophomore with 79 putouts and 88 assists.
“She’s doing a fantastic job,”said Clark of Morse, who is second on the team with a 308 batting average. “She’s also learning how to be a better teammate and support others and she’s sort of doing it in a way that is allowing her to play free and compete hard.”
Morse’s former Mepham teammate, sophomore right fielder Lily Yepez, has also emerged as a key part of the lineup after registering 14 hits in 20 starts as a freshman.
Senior first baseman Anna Butler, a Seaford High School product, adds to the Nassau County South Shore presence on the roster. Butler tied a program record for most hits during a seveninning game when she 5-for-5 in a 4-3 loss to Cornell on Feb. 28.
Butler also can contribute in the pitching circle as well and made her first relief appearance in a 1-0 victory against Howard on March 18, tossing five innings of scoreless relief to earn
the win.
“She is so committed to competing hard and to the team,” said Clark of Butler. “That dynamic is really what has been allowing her to figure some things out.”
Sophomore center fielder Chelsea Villar has begun to make waves in the lineup and entered the week as the Pride’s leading leading hitter with a .313 batting average and three home runs. Sophomore Mackenzie Fitzgerald is also making strides as a sophomore with a .293 average.
Hofstra will be on the road the next two weekends for series against Campbell and Drexel before hosting UNCWilmington for three games from April 11-13 and College of Charleston from April 18-20. The Pride conclude the regular season by hosting CAA foe Monmouth for a three-game series from May 1-3.
“In the rest of conference play it is about continuing to focus on the things we can control and continue to focus on us,” Clark said. “When we do that, we’re capable of beating any team.”
Junior shortstop Alanna Morse is a two-way standout for the Pride.
Liberty Water has begun its annual Spring Flushing Program in Baldwin and Lynbrook. They spoke to the Herald on why its essential for customers and public safety.
Liberty Water begins annual Spring Flushing Program
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
As spring cleaning season begins, Liberty Water is turning its attention to clearing out its water distribution system. The company announced the start of its annual Spring Flushing Program, a routine maintenance process designed to enhance water quality and ensure reliable service for its customers.
The flushing program, which began on March 17 in Baldwin and Lynbrook, is a key part of Liberty’s ongoing efforts to maintain safe and high-quality drinking water. During this process, fire hydrants are opened at strategic locations to increase water flow, which helps remove harmless minerals and sediment buildup from the pipes.
“We care greatly about the quality of water we send to customers’ homes,” Rich Kern, Liberty New York Water director of operations wrote in an email to the Herald. “Flushing our water mains is an important step in maintaining safe and reliable water service to our customers. This process removes harmless minerals and sediment buildup that can cause water to become discolored and assists in maintaining adequate water flow for customers and for fire emergencies.”
What Residents Can Expect
During flushing operations, residents may experience temporary drops in water pressure or discolored water. If discoloration occurs, Liberty advises customers to run their faucets for a minute or two until the water clears.
Kern emphasized that the flushing process directly contributes to improving water quality.
“Flushing our system helps to clean out any buildup of mineral deposits and
sediment inside the pipes,” he explained. “These harmless deposits can build up during times of reduced water demand in winter months. Spring flushing removes these deposits and therefore reduces discolored water.”
Long-Term Benefits for Customers
Over the years, Liberty has seen significant improvements as a result of its flushing program. According to Kern, the company has received fewer discolored water complaints.
“Annual flushing has increased customer satisfaction, indicated by the lower number of discolored water calls that come into our call center,” Kern said. “Over the years, the flushing program has successfully reduced sediment from the system, since there can be a buildup over time.
“While the sediment itself is harmless, removing it ensures we enhance water clarity and allows water to flow more freely through the water mains,” he added. “Liberty water is safe, meeting or exceeding all water quality standards, and hydrant flushing makes the water more aesthetically pleasing in addition to improving water pressure.”
A Critical Role in Public Safety
In addition to improving water clarity and flow, the flushing program plays a vital role in public safety, particularly in fire response.
“Liberty follows industry best practices for hydrant flushing. Annual flushing is a proven method to ensure ample water flow for firefighters during times of emergencies,” Kern said. “In addition to annual fire hydrant maintenance checks, when we flush, we operate the fire hydrants, so it is an additional time during the year when we ensure the hydrants are working properly.”
Courtesy Liberty Water
Baldwin Middle School presents ‘Wonka Jr.’
Baldwin Middle School dazzled audiences with its production of Wonka Jr., performed March 13-15. Families, friends and community members gathered to watch students bring the imaginative world of Willy Wonka to life in a performance filled with music, humor and heart.
Wonka Jr. explores the origin story of the world-famous chocolatier. The musical follows a young Willy Wonka as he pursues his dream of opening a chocolate shop. Along the way, he faces obstacles from rival chocolatiers, encounters the mischievous Oompa Loompas and discovers the magic behind his future empire. The story high-
lights themes of creativity, perseverance and the power of dreams.
Baldwin Middle School’s production featured an enthusiastic cast, vibrant costumes and engaging musical numbers that transported the audience into Wonka’s whimsical world.
Gavin Sorensen starred as Wonka, and the students’ performances brought laughter and applause, with standout moments from the young chocolatier and his companions.
Gavin Sorensen starred as a young Willy Wonka.
Haley Prabhakar playing Violet Beauregarde. She is known for her obsession with chewing gum and competitive personality.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Willy Wonka with his oompa loompa’s.
Marcus Samedy as the Candy Man.
A closer look at the Propel NY Energy project
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Propel NY Energy project is aiming to revo-
1
The Big Investment
$3.26 Billion:
Ratepayers fund the total capital cost for the entire project across New York state.
Six Cents a Day:
Estimated additional cost to an average residential ratepayer—about six cents per day—to support the new infrastructure.
2
The New Grid
90 Miles of Transmission Lines:
The project will construct 90 miles of new underground transmission lines, with 66 miles in Nassau County and additional segments extending into Suffolk County, the Bronx, and Westchester.
3 Additional Interconnection Points:
Long Island currently relies on just two connection points to the statewide grid. Propel NY Energy will add three
lutionize Long Island’s electric grid. The project is currently in the Article Seven permitting process — a two-year review involving environmental and engineering assessments. Construction is slated to
new connections, strengthening overall grid reliability and resiliency.
5 Interconnection Points in Total:
With the new additions, the grid will have five connection points, ensuring that power flows efficiently in both directions.
3
Construction & Permitting Article Seven Permitting:
The rigorous Article Seven process, covering environmental, socioeconomic, and engineering assessments, is expected to take approximately two years, with submissions made in July and anticipated approval around July 2026.
Construction Timeline:
Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026 and continue for three to four years, with completion expected by mid-2030.
begin in mid-2026 and continue until mid-2030. Here’s the key numbers and figures driving this $3.26 billion initiative:
Underground cables will be installed at a depth of roughly 5 to 7 feet, ensuring they are protected from weather and other external risks.
Daily Progress:
Crews are projected to advance between 50 and 150 feet per day per crew, minimizing long-term disruption to local neighborhoods.
4
Future-Proofing the Grid
50 to 90 Percent Increase in Demand:
As much as a 50 to 90 percent surge in electricity demand is projected over the next 20 years, driven by electrification, including electric vehicles, heat pumps, and data centers.
50 percent Renewable Energy by 2030: By 2030, it’s anticipated that 50 percent of Long Island’s power will come from offshore wind—made possible by the upgraded grid capacity.
Avoided Congestion Savings:
Enhanced transmission efficiency is expected to save the state an estimated $3.3 billion in congestion-related costs over time.
5
Selection & Local Impact 19 Proposals Reviewed:
The project was chosen through a competitive process that evaluated 19 proposals from four developers, with Propel NY Energy emerging as the most cost-effective solution.
Local Workforce:
The project will utilize local union labor and contractors, ensuring economic benefits and community engagement throughout Nassau County and beyond.
The Propel NY Energy project is about building a resilient electrical grid that meets the rising energy demands of Long Island and supports a more sustainable energy future.
WOMEN’S HISTORY
MONTH
Helping those who haven’t been heard find voices
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Continuing a month-long series of interviews with influential area women in honor of Women’s History Month. Helen Dorado-Alessi is CEO of El Dorado Consulting and executive director of the Long Beach Latino Civic Association.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Dorado-Alessi: I grew up in Woodside, Queens, a very tight-knit community, so I was very accustomed to that kind of a world. When my husband and I looked for a new place to live when our children were growing up, Long Beach fit the bill for us. Beyond being a closeknit community, we found a community that was very charitable, giving and open.
I’m of Latin descent from the Caribbean, my dad from Cuba, my mother from Puerto Rico. So it’s kind of in my DNA to be close to the water, sun and sand. Youth development has always been a love of mine because of how hard it was for me coming up. There wasn’t any
such thing, so I always wanted to be on that side of my work. I have two kids, two grandchildren — (I’m) always out and about with them. I see the future in my grandchildren’s eyes and want to make sure that I make them proud with whatever work I am doing.
Herald: What do you do? Why?
Dorado-Alessi: I have my own company called El Dorado Consulting. I work on projects that have helped to broker relationships between philanthropy and nonprofits to get the work done. Right now I’m a consultant to Herstory Writers Workshop, an organization that helps people in jails and schools write their social justice memoirs. We ask people, if your words had the power to change hearts, minds and policies, what would they say? Through that work, I’ve been able to help people have confidence in their voice and their his-
tory, their families, their communities, and then share those stories with politicians, with businesses, with others who may not know what it’s like to walk in somebody else’s shoes.
HELEN DORADO-ALESSI
The other thing I do is that I’m the executive director of Long Beach Latino Civic Association. No immigrant is illegal; a person cannot be illegal, but more importantly, their dreams are not illegal. They’ve left some very violent, scary places to come here, to have a life that they could be proud of. If you give people the information and the education, the knowledge, they’re more than happy to be part of Long Beach or New York or the United States.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Dorado-Alessi: The most challenging part of my whole career and life has
been this particular time where there’s so much animosity, hurtfulness and bullying. I think also the biggest challenge is, how do we fight misinformation and bold-faced lies? I could see why a lot of people would want this particular person to be running the country. I understand that they have their views. I’m just hoping that people, when they see what is really happening, will take a step back.
I think the parts that really drive me is when I work with young people, and I think that could have been my mom or my dad having just arrived. When I see them succeed, when I see them with a little bit of help, they’re going to college, or they’re getting a job on Wall Street. I think other men and women in the field who are fighting as hard as I am and we are, that’s what inspires me. I’m not alone.
More information can be found atherstorywriters.org, and LBlatinocivic.org. Responses have been edited for clarity. The rest of this interview can be found online, at liherald.com.
An advocate for the transgender community
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Juli Grey-Owens is founder and executive director of Gender Equality New York.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Grey-Owens: I am a senior trans women who does advocacy work for our community. I grew up in northwestern New Jersey, had a relatively normal childhood. I knew something was different around (age) 3 or 4. In my preteen years I experimented, but didn’t know what was up because this was the 1960s.
I went to high school and was a good student. I was a decent athlete, co-captain of my football team. Met a girl in eighth grade, and we were friends until we started going out in junior year. My experimentation stopped during high school because I was busy with school, sports — I had a girlfriend. I graduated with high honors and applied to engineering schools.
Then my parents had a tough divorce, and I had no money. College was a mess, trying to work multiple jobs and school. I felt a lot of pressure and began experimenting again.
I was recruited to a Fortune 500 company out of college, started work, paid off my bills, and then I went to a counselor to see if I could get rid of this “thing.”
The counselor was really terrific, and he said to me, “You’re not gonna get rid of it. You have to decide how you’re
gonna deal with it.”
I decided to blend this into my life. I continued as a cisgender man, but on weekends I would maybe go to a party or something, just to try to figure out the community and how I fit in it.
In 1981 a work opportunity brought my fiancée and I to Long Island. I got my MBA, I married that girl from junior year, and at 35 we had a child. As I got older, I felt stifled because between career and family, there was no time to go out.
A real turning point was when my father passed away. I was 47 at the time and I started looking at my life, as you do when your parent passes away, and I decided I needed to be more authentic. I started going to trans events in 2003, and it progressed from there.
ing at Northwell Health and Memorial Sloan-Kettering.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Grey-Owens: The public has a very poor idea of our community, and we suffer as a result. There’s a lot of bad information out there, outright lies in some cases. For example, 8-year-olds are not getting surgery, and school nurses are not giving out hormones. If we don’t get information out, if we don’t start making people aware of our communities, these lies will continue.
My wife and I separated in 2007, and then in 2008 I met my second wife. We’ve been together for 16 years and married for 13.
Herald: What do you do? Why?
Grey-Owens: I’m founder and executive director of Gender Equality New York, a nonprofit that advocates for transgender, gender nonbinary and intersex New Yorkers. The work we do is largely educational: We provide information to agencies, legislators. I provide training to the Nassau and Suffolk police academies. I also provide train-
We currently have a federal government that’s attacking our community and trying to make us disappear. So the work has to be done to normalize our community and make people aware of the conditions we live under.
Herald: What has been the proudest moment in your life?
Grey-Owens: Getting the transgender civil rights bill passed in 2019. Prior to January 2019, a transgender person could be discriminated against in employment, housing and public services.
In 2003, lesbians, gays and bisexuals were able to pass a bill called the Sexual
Orientation Non-Discrimination Act in New York dtate, granting them their civil rights, (but it) specifically excluded the transgender community. It was 16 years before the trans community got their civil rights.
In 2019, the Gender Expression NonDiscrimination Act was signed into law, and we have had civil rights protections in New York state since then. There are no federal protections, so if we leave there are no guaranteed protections.
Herald: What advice do you have to offer? What work is left to be done?
Grey-Owens: Trying to get federal protections for our community is a big thing, but right now we’re just trying to get our community to survive the next four years.
And to some of our younger members, who might still be in school, or living under their family’s rule, and are unable to come out and be themselves: Be patient. Be safe. Make sure you have a roof over your head, that you’re fed and taken care of, get your high school diploma, if you’re able to, get to college. Usually you’re able to be more authentically yourself in college.
It does get better once we get older, but once you’re out as an adult, anything you can do to help move the community forward is important and necessary.
For more information, visit genderequalityny.org or follow @genderequalityny on Instagram and Facebook.
Herald publications win seven state awards
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
At the annual New York Press Association Spring Conference in Saratoga Springs last week, Herald Community Media won seven state awards in the 2024 Better Newspaper Contest.
Long Beach reporter Angelina Zingariello won a first place award in the Feature Story category, Division 4. With so many submissions in each of six divisions, it is a very difficult award to win.
About the story with the headline “A long, cold, healing journey” the judges said: “Good combination of personal struggle and outcome with unconventional therapy. Well written and edited, a compelling read.”
The Nov. 21 story focused on how Long Beach resident Mindi Dovberg uses cold-water immersion as a technique for an emotional reset when dealing with physical challenges and emotional setbacks.
The Herald took the top spot in Best Large Space Ad, Division 1, which was printed in the Nassau Herald and other Herald newspapers.
“This stunning ad touches me,” one judge wrote. “The simplicity and pure elegance of this is beautiful. Love how white space was used to create such an impact. Proves the point that sometimes less really is more! Outstanding!”
There were 10 entries in the Rookie Reporter of The Year category, and Sea Cliff/Glen Head reporter Brian Norman captured second place with stories ranging from the controversy surrounding the proposed state regionalization plan to how the food is prepared for North Shore High School students.
Sea Cliff/Glen Head reporter Brian Norman, left took second place in the Rookie Reporter of the Year category. His colleagues Melissa Berman and Charles Shaw congratulate him.
The judges said: “Reporter does a great job conveying story to readers, whether the subject be ‘hard’ news or a feature article.”
Norman, a 2024 graduate of Quinnipiac University, interned with the Herald last summer and was hired in September as a full-time reporter for Sea Cliff/Glen Head. He is now a reporter for the Nassau Herald, the flagship newspaper for the community weekly chain.
Photographer Brian Ballweg placed second in the Sports Feature, Division 1 category. The photograph appeared on the front page of the June 13 Rockville Centre Herald.
The judges said: “This photo shows
excellent framing of the lacrosse winners in this overtime state championship moment. Their faces run to the spectrum of elation, stopping the viewer — the joy here is studying their faces, bodies contained in the goal.”
Creative Director Jeffrey Negrin earned a trio of third-place awards.
In the Best Special Section Cover, Division 2 category, the judges said: “Another really excellent use of text on black with fun ‘clinks’ of glasses as backdrop. Long Island Choice Awards makes me want to open this up over a cocktail.”
For Special Sections/Niche Publications-Newsprint, Division 1 the judges said: “Excellent school recognition.”
The publication was the Herald’s annual special section for the Red and Blue competition at South Side High School that was published for the Feb. 29, 2024 Rockville Centre Herald.
In the Best Multi-Advertiser Pages category, judges said: “Cute organic for a shared page. Makes you want to read each one.”
The 2024 Better Newspapers Contest had 132 newspapers statewide submit 2,082 entries in 68 categories. The Missouri Press Association judged the submissions.
“It’s always nice to be recognized by our peers and colleagues,” said Herald Community Media publisher Stuart Richner. “We look forward to continuing to tell the stories of our communities in the weeks and years ahead. Congratulations to our team on well deserved recognition.”
Courtesy NYPA Conference
More than 20 members of the Herald Community Media team attended the annual New York Press Association Spring Conference in Saratoga Springs March 20-21.
Jeff Bessen/Herald photos Long Beach reporter Angelina Zingariello won first place for Feature Story, Division 4.
STEPPING OUT
‘Little’ films with a big heart
In the spotlight at Asbury Short Film Concert
By Karen Bloom
Sure … the Hollywood moviemakers grab your attention. Yet there’s so much more to the movie biz beside that tentpole blockbuster. Check out the Asbury Short Film Concert, which returns to its local “home” at the Madison Theatre next Friday and see an abundance of creative offerings. There’s certainly no denying the appeal of a major feature film. But for those who crave something different that certainly strikes an emotional chord, Asbury’s “concert” is for you. This national touring showcase brings a diverse, focused lineup — in many cases featuring up-and-coming filmmakers — of smaller efforts you generally won’t find on the big screen.
And it’s most definitely not a festival.
“We present the best in comedy, drama, animation, even the occasional documentary,” says Doug LeClaire, Asbury Shorts’ founder and longtime director. “We call it a concert rather than a festival because there are no awards, no Q&A or panel discussions, it’s all about entertainment value for the audience.”
As in previous years, Asbury Shorts offers up an eclectic mix of films, what LeClaire describes as a “potpourri of the short film world.” LeClaire, who was in commercial and film production for over four decades, has been passionate about short films since his student days at New York Institute of Technology. He pivoted to promoting his beloved short films full time and the result has been a resounding success.
“Myself, and those who have been with me the longest, didn’t think our short film party that began in Westbury in 1981 would evolve into a major global touring event that has presented Asbury Shorts shows from Berlin to L.A. over the years with many, many stops in between,” LeClaire says. “The mission has always been to keep great short films, from all years, projected on real cinema screens as opposed to YouTube, smart phones, computers or tablets or the big screen TVs. Asbury Shorts is strictly a theatrical cinema event, no virtual allowed!
“Our number one priority is the enjoyment of our audience. We’re proud to provide an outlet for the filmmakers’ product. For us, it is all about the experience, showing these films to an audience. We give them the opportunity to experience great films on a big screen the way they were meant to be seen.”
He and his team cull them from the film festival circuit — including the prestigious SXSW (South by Southwest), Sundance and Toronto International Film Festival, and Tribeca Festival, among others.
“To get an award at one of these festivals is just as good as an Oscar nomination,” LeClaire says. “These young filmmakers are so happy to get that wreath. They collect them the way we would collect baseball cards back in the day.”
• Friday, April 4, 7:30 p.m.
• For tickets, visit madisontheatreny.org or call the box office at (516) 323-4444
• Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
Think of this as your personal film festival experience. As LeClaire puts it: “We’re bringing these films to folks who can’t get to film festivals.”
His formula certainly has resonated with audiences.
“We have demonstrated that we are entertaining and blessed to have fans that keep coming back,” LeClaire says, “while also reaching out to new audiences.”
The two-hour show moves along briskly. The films range from a brief few minutes to 20 minutes at most.
“A good short film is to the point, fast paced, and most important of all, is the ending,” LeClaire says. “It must make sense.”
And that ending will surely leave you wanting more.
Among the highlights, LeClaire points to Martín Rosete’s 10-minute “Voice Over,” which depicts the urgency of life’s pivotal moments in a desperate race against time.
Three different stories are told by the same narrator searching for the correct story. The same actor appears in all three. Will the narrator find what he’s looking for? We don’t know — maybe, maybe not.
Rosete, a Spanish filmmaker now based in New York, was awarded the Goya, Spain’s Academy Award, for “Voice Over.”.
LeClaire describes it as “sort of the ‘perfect’ short film” due its story and production values.
“It has outstanding and mind boggling production design for an indie produced short film and an ending that I really like,” he explains.
Another standout is “Anomaly” from director Ryan Jenkins, which was honored recently with Best Short Film at the Lake Placid Film Festival. In this 15-minute drama, a renowned magician features an inexplicable illusion in his final run of performances. Meanwhile, a government agent who witnesses the baffling act becomes hell-bent on uncovering its method.
As for the rest, well, you’ll have to attend and see for yourself. LeClaire doesn’t like to reveal too much, promising it’s all “great fun.”
He is delighted to come back to his Long Island roots with his film showcase.
“We’re very heartened by the audience at the Madison. We are grateful to [Artistic Director] Angelo Fraboni and his staff for allowing us to return each year. It’s been a terrific relationship.”
‘Good times…’
Neil Diamond is certainly forever — as honored by Neil Forever, returning to the Paramount stage. David Jacobson, the tribute band’s founder, has a great passion for the music and legacy of the legendary performer. David, along with his son and music director Dylan Jacobson and drummer John Cardoso began their journey in January 2023. Today, the 14-person ensemble delivers an authentic, exciting and joyful concert that captivates the legendary superstar’s fans. Performing Diamond’s music is as much about heart and soul as it is talent; it’s a celebration of the music and the man who created it. The band has forged an exciting path, as discovered by excited and passionate fans, of all ages. Audiences are thrilled by the authentic renditions of classic hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Coming to America,” and “Kentucky Women.”
Friday, March 28, 8 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
South Shore Symphony
The South Shore Symphony Orchestra springs forward with its next concert, “Slavic Masterworks,” at its Madison Theatre home. The orchestra is joined by renowned cellist Amy Barston, featured in Polish composer Grayna Bacewicz’s Cello Concerto No. 1. A rare gem, according to Barston, she notes that it is fresh to the concert stage in that it is quasi-newly discovered, but it feels like a familiar, beloved masterwork. Electrifying, often dance-like energy, paired with soaring lyrical melodies, it has received an enthusiastic reception from audiences. The evening’s repertoire also includes Dvorak’s Slavonic Dances, op. 46, no. 3 in Ab major and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, op. 64, e minor.
Saturday, March 29, 7:30 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 3234444.
Courtesy Asbury Shortst
Three extreme situations are actually the same in “Voice Over.”
“Anomaly” stars John Romeo as a detective investigating the work of a suspicious magician.
THE Your Neighborhood
The Wallflowers
Grab those leather jackets, and rock on! The Wallflowers are back on the road and bringing their sound to the Paramount stage, Sunday, April 6, at 8 p.m., with special guest Jackson Melnick. For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylanled act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands — a unit dedicated to and continually honing a sound that meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack. That signature style has been present through the decades, baked into the grooves of smash hits like 1996’s “Bringing Down the Horse” as well as more recent and exploratory fare like 2012’s “Glad All Over.” Even so, in recent years, Dylan — the Wallflowers’ founding singer, songwriter and guitarist — has repeatedly stepped outside of his band. First with a pair of more acoustic and rootsy records, 2008’s “Seeing Things” and 2010’s “Women + Country,” and then with the 2018 film “Echo in the Canyon” and the accompanying soundtrack, which saw him collaborate with a host of artists classic and contemporary, from Neil Young and Eric Clapton to Beck and Fiona Apple.
Hangout One Happy Place Autism Walk
Participate in the annual autism awareness walk, Sunday, April 27, 1 p.m., at Baldwin Harbor Park. With entertainment, dancing, a raffle, and arts and crafts activities. 3232 Grand Ave. More information at HangoutOneHappyPlace.com.
Baldwin Board of Education Meeting
Parents are encouraged to attend and voice their concerns at the Baldwin Board of Education meeting, Wednesday, April 9, 8 p.m., at Meadow Elementary School. 880 Jackson St.
Celebrate Holi
Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors, Sunday, April 6, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Originating in India, this Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of the colorful spring season. During this joyous celebration, families eat sweets, dance to traditional folk music and throw colorful powder made from flowers called gulal.
Egyptomania in the 1920s
Join Egyptologists-authorsprofessors Drs. Colleen and John Darnell at Nassau County Museum of Art, Sunday, March 30, 3 p.m., for a fascinating lecture on “Egyptomania” in the 1920s. The Darnells are authors of several books and dozens of articles. With academic careers in Egyptology at Yale University, they are committed to bringing ancient Egypt’s rich history, religion, art, and language to a worldwide audience.
Their passion for vintage fashion and modeling has led to exciting collaborations with Egypt’s premier jewelry designers, photographers and magazines. Limited seating. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students; members free. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org.
Annual Reverse Raffle
But while it’s been nine long years since we’ve heard from the group with whom he first made his mark, the Wallflowers are silent no more. And Dylan always knew they’d return. And return the band has, with “Exit Wounds,” their new studio offering. It marks the first new Wallflowers material since “Glad All Over.” And while the wait has been long, the much-anticipated record finds the band’s signature sound — lean, potent and eminently entrancing — intact, even as Dylan surrounds himself with a fresh cast of musicians. $75, $45, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAYS
Crafts, color throwing and dancing will be part of this vibrant event. Welcome spring’s arrival with Holi. Participants are encouraged to wear clothes that they won’t mind getting messy. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Go to licm.org or call (516) 2245800 for more information.
Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual reverse raffle with over $4,000 in cash prizes, Wednesday, April 9, 6:30 p.m., at Palm Island. Tickets are $100, includes buffet dinner, beer, wine, and dessert for two adults. 1299 Grand Ave. For more information, visit baldwinchamber.com.
Mercy Hospital offers cardiac screening
You only have one heart. Protect it with a free cardiac screening at Mercy Hospital, Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Getting your coronary calcium score scan can save your life. A coronary calcium score is like a “mammogram” for the heart to screen for blockage(s).
This simple, non-invasive test can indicate coronary artery disease before the onset of symptoms or heart attacks. The scan does not require IV or Oral CT contrast. Limited appointments available 15 minute increments. Last appointment will be at 1:45 p.m. No insurance necessary. 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. Radiology & Imaging (adjacent to Emergency Department). To register, call (516) 62-MERCY (63729)
Defensive Driving Class
Baldwin Public Library holds a Defensive Driving course, Saturday, April 26, 9:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Improve driving skills and reduce your auto insurance and/or points. Fee is $35. For more information and to register, visit baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228. 2385 Grand Ave.
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, March 29, 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.
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.
Seed Library re-opens
Baldwin Public Library re-opens their seed library to patrons for spring, Information about the seed library and available seeds will be at the reference desk. Patrons can pick up seeds until Sept. 15. For more information, visit baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228. 2385 Grand Ave.
Having an event?
STEM Explorers
Long Island Children’s Museum opens its doors to a weekend devoted to STEM activities, Saturday and Sunday, March 29-30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., that will ignite the imaginations of children and adults alike. Guests offer engaging demonstrations, experiments and interactive activities. Highlights include sampling the science of molecular gastronomy at work with flash frozen ice cream; learn about native and invasive species that swim in Long Island waters; discover how oysters are coming to our rescue; study the water cycle and Long Island’s unique geographic formations and more. Activities free with museum admission. . Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Visit licm. org or call (516) 224-5800 for more.
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, April 13, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Taylor Dayne has come far from Baldwin
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Taylor Dayne has been singing songs from her heart for over three decades since her first hit, her debut single “Tell It to My Heart” in 1987. Recognized as one of the few artists in history to successfully crossover into multiple genres including Pop, Dance, R&B, Adult Contemporary and Rock, she has earned three Grammy nominations, an American Music Award and was inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2012. In honor of Women’s History Month, Dayne spoke with the Long Island Herald on everything from growing up in Baldwin and her start on Long Island to how she rose up in the industry despite challenges of the time and most recently found her strength to overcome and become a survivor of colon cancer, coming out stronger and with more gratitude and purpose than ever before.
Herald: What are your thoughts on having been inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame?
Dayne: It’s quite an honor to understand the impact we’ve had on the music industry. I was born in New York City, raised in the Bronx and on Long Island. I went to Baldwin Junior and Senior High, and Long Island is part of the true fabric of who I am. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for all the live music places where I got to perform and literally work out and become the artist I am. Live music was so alive here. I got to really do my 10,000 hours that way. There wasn’t a club we couldn’t play live. There’s such talent out of Long Island. You have Lou Reed, Patty Benatar, the great Billy Joel- it’s just enormous.
Herald: What are some places in and around Baldwin that you remember first playing?
Dayne: There were two very memorable places. One of them in Freeport was called The Right Track Inn, and I can’t even tell you how many groundbreaking artists came from there. There was also a rehearsal studio in Baldwin where Joan Jett was rehearsing and the Stray Cats, and I was like one day I’m going to be in that rehearsal studio. My first bands ended up rehearsing there.
Herald: What has given you strength over the years to truly give your all at your live shows?
Dayne: Life has its ups and downs and its challenges. Everybody has challenges, and especially after battling colon cancer, I am a woman up there on stage who knows her purpose even more and is ever grateful. The gratitude is real. This is not an industry for the weak and I am grateful to be on stage singing, living my dream and doing what I love. When I’m on stage, it’s 100 percent. To me, I’m telling a story. It’s like a play; there’s a beginning, middle and end. The story must start, must take you there on the journey and then resolve, and hopefully you feel as complete as I do when I leave. At our live shows, we’re transferring energy, exploring energy, trading energy and we’re also taking it to another frequency- that’s the point. I’m raising the bar, raising the frequency so that I’m doing the right work. I’m doing God’s work. I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing and that’s why it gets better and better.
Herald: I’m sure you have had many career highlights, are there a couple of moments that have stood out?
Dayne: A highlight actually happened this past week. As everyone knows, the west coast got slammed recently, many of my friends and many businesses are devastated. We have done a lot of work with first responders and mental health work. We did an event in Santa Barbara with One805. I can’t tell you how many
“Long Island is part of the true fabric of who I am,” says
people came out from Michael McDonald to Kenny Loggins, Darius Rucker and Macy Gray. We all just performed. To see 55 station chiefs and first responders watch this and to able to share like that brings tears to my eyes. Watching us all come together and
raise money for mental health needs for these first responders and their families was amazing. Because like I said, life is filled with challenges. There have always been moments. There are moments when I’m sitting in a restaurant and Stevie Wonder is sitting across from me and I go and hug him and we talk. There’s always that, and there’s career highlights, some that I’m really tapped into and remember. I do have to say though, the best is yet to come.
Herald: In honor of Women’s History Month, do you have any advice regarding resilience, overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, that you would like to share with our women readership, in particular?
Dayne: Well, I’m a poster child of overcoming challenges. In our industry, at the time, sexual harassment existed and you just had to keep going. You have to have a tenacious state about you and you have to have grace as a woman. Sometimes I’ve fallen through the cracks and sometimes I was defeated. You know, it’s a man’s world, well boy was it a man’s industry! But at the same time, you find your way. I think being tenacious is something I learned a long time ago from my mother- the good, the bad and the ugly of it. You can’t give up, and that’s what I call ambition. There’s this thing inside me that’s so driven and it’s certainly changed from fame now to recognition to understanding what your purpose is. I’ve spent my entire career, almost 40 years, really evolving to where I am now, and I will continue to evolve.
Herald: And what do you have coming up?
Dayne: Musically we’re starting to get busy again. I’m heading internationally for touring at the moment, going to Germany next. As far as new music, the collaborations are starting. We’re putting things together.
To learn more about Taylor Dayne and her upcoming music and shows, follow her @therealtaylordayne or visit taylordayne.com.
Courtesy Photographer Steve Leung, LIMEHOF
Taylor Day has been a force in the music industry for nearly 40 years, since her first hit, “Tell It to My Heart.”
Courtesy Sequoia Emanuelle
Dayne, who has faced challenges including cancer.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v. MARIE JEROME, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on March 4, 2014, I, George P. Esernio, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 8, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 858 Seaman Avenue Baldwin, NY 11510-2816
SBL No.: 54-470-320
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 010925/2013 in the amount of $284,962.27 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.
Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604
Tel.: 855-227-5072 151974
AND LEGAL NOTICES…
in this publication can
found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
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. LUTHER NICHOLAS
A/K/A LUTHER M. NICHOLAS, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 31, 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 April 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 896 School Drive, North Baldwin a/k/a 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 508 and Lot 15. Approximate amount of judgment is $281,125.47 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612280/2022. Cash will not be accepted.
Melissa D. Mohan, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151964
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
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LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Sale Supreme Court: Nassau County T11 Funding v Michael Ellinas et al. Defts Index 608455/2020. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered January 26, 2023. I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on April 17, 2025 at 3:00 PM premises known as School District 10, Section 54, Block 435 Lot 29 Group Lots 29-33, Lot 34, Group Lots 34-38 Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 10% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted.
Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.
Ronald S. Zimmer, Esq., Referee 152256
LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS-SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAUPALM AVENUE HIALEAH TRUST, A DELAWARE STATUTORY TRUST FOR AND ON BEHALF AND SOLELY WITH RESPECT TO PALM AVENUE HIALEAH TRUST SERIES 2014-1, Plaintiff, -againstMARCO A. RENDON, IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, Defendants - Index No.: 622581/2024 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of
Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named DefendantsYOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated February 26, 2025. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME - If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (PALM AVENUE HIALEAH TRUST, A DELAWARE STATUTORY TRUST FOR AND ON BEHALF AND SOLELY WITH RESPECT TO PALM AVENUE HIALEAH TRUST SERIES 2014-1) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Denise L. Sher, J.S.C. Dated: February 26, 2025 Filed: February 26, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering
the premises known as 2352 Rockwood Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510 (Section: 54 Block: 465 Lots: 110 & 111) Dated: February 18, 2025 Ross Eisenberg Law PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Ross Eisenberg, Esq., 445 Central Ave., Suite 112, Cedarhurst, N.Y. 11516 P: (516) 828-5122 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: E-mail: ross@eisenberglawpllc. com 152251
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 17-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held March 11th, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 17-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 17-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: March 11, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 152430
LEGAL NOTICE
Baldwin Union Free School District 960 Hastings Street Baldwin, New York 11510
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
On behalf of a cooperative of school districts in Nassau County, the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District, Baldwin, New York, in accordance with Section 103 of General Municipal Law, hereby invites the submission of sealed bids from reputable and qualified contractors for the provision of labor and materials for the following contract:
Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-002836 84854 152387
LEGAL NOTICE SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
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 SLC 2018-1 TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST RONDA ESI RICKETTS AS ADMINISTRATOR TO THE ESTATE OF ESME RICKETTS, RAQUEL KOOS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ESME RICKETTS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 24, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 726 Dean Drive, 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 and State of New York, Section 36 Block 511 and Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment $36,853.03 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605157/2023. Christine M. Grillo,
Cooperative Bid for General Roofing Repair Bid Opening April 11th 2025 at 11:00am Bids will be received for use in the abovereferenced school districts up until hour of prevailing time and date as stated above at the Baldwin UFSD Business Office, 960 Hastings Street Baldwin Ny 11510, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the Facilities Office or via e-mail request to randazzor@baldwinsch ools.org. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or to accept that bid which, in the Board of Education’s judgment, is in the best interest of the Baldwin Union Free School District. Bids must be presented on the standard proposal form in the manner designated and as required by the specifications. All bids must be enclosed in sealed envelopes which are clearly marked on the outside: “Baldwin Union Free School DistrictCooperative Bid for General Roof Repair” Bids shall remain firm for a period of forty five ( 45) days following the date of the bid opening. Each board of education reserves the right to waive any infom1alities in or to reject any or all bids, or to accept that bid which, in the Boards of Education’s judgment, is in the best interest of the School District. The Boards of Education further reserve the right to consider experience, service and reputation in the above referenced fields. In addition, the Boards of Education reserve the right to consider the financial responsibility and specific qualifications, set forth in the bid specifications, of the prospective bidder in evaluation of the bids and award of contracts BOARD OF EDUCATION Baldwin Union Free School District By: Jacqueline Torres, District Clerk This is a Cooperative bid. PARTICIPATING DISTRICTS are as follows: Baldwin UFSD, Bellmore UFSD, Bellmore-Merrick CHSD, Bethpage UFSD, Carle Place UFSD, East Rockaway UFSD, East Williston UFSD, Floral Park- Bellerose UFSD, Freeport UFSD, Garden City UFSD, Glen Cove CSD, Great Neck UFSD, Hempstead UFSD, Herricks UFSD, Hewlett–Woodmere UFSD, Hicksville UFSD, Island Trees UFSD, Jericho UFSD, Levittown UFSD, Locust Valley UFSD, Long Beach CSD, Lynbrook UFSD, Manhasset UFSD, Massapequa UFSD, Merrick UFSD, Mineola UFSD, New Hyde Park GCP, North Bellmore UFSD, North Merrick UFSD, North Shore CSD, Plainedge UFSD, Plainview/Old Bethpage CSD, Port Washington UFSD, Rockville Center UFSD, Roosevelt UFSD, Seaford UFSD, Syosset UFSD, Valley Stream UFSD #24, Valley Stream UFSD #30, Valley Stream CHSD, Wantagh UFSD, West Hempstead UFSD, Westbury UFSD 152450
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: New York State Office of the Attorney General, Grassi & Co., Jasper Surety, Islandwide Surgical, P.C., Audrey Dick, Michael Mueller, Estate of Theresa Murphy, Michael Maguire, Peter Maquire, Gerald Maquire, Diane Scala, MaryAnn Geed, Luke Eichner, Jane Tintle, Adrienne Wooduck, Charles Eichner, William Eichner, Joseph Eichner, James Eichner, John Eichner, Lynn Rossi, Thomas Eichner, Kenneth Bird, Walter Eichner, Patricia Eichner, Nancy Cestare, Thomas Haudberg, Virginia Arbisi, Estate of Andrew Eichner, Christine Ruhl, Susan Dipierno, Barbara Hayman, Lawrence Eichner, Douglas Eichner, Paul Bluff, Joseph Mitola, and any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-atlaw and next-of-kin of the said Paul Curran, deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained A petition having been duly filed by Nassau County Public Administrator, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501. YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on May 7, 2025, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the
Hope City Church reflects five years later
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Hope City Church opened its Baldwin campus in 2020 amidst the challenges of a global pandemic. Despite the unexpected circumstances, the church’s vision—to develop disciples who develop disciples to change the world—remained unchanged.
When Hope City Church arrived in Baldwin at 685 Brooklyn Ave., the goal was to make a meaningful impact through its unique worship style and commitment to discipleship. Five years later, the church reflects.
“When we first arrived in 2020, our primary goal was to impact the Baldwin community through our unique worship style and commitment to discipleship,”
Senior Pastor Tyrone Stevenson said. “The pandemic changed our timeline but never our goals. Five years later, our goals remain the same.”
The decision to open a campus in Baldwin wasn’t part of a strategic plan—it was a natural progression.
“It was more like Baldwin chose us,” Stevenson said.
He explained that the original plan was to combine with the Brooklyn campus, but many of the church’s families began relocating to Baldwin and nearby Valley Stream, prompting the move to create a physical campus in Baldwin.
Since opening, Hope City Church has made strides to impact Baldwin positively. One of their first priorities was renovating the Baldwin campus with a focus on supporting the local community.
“In renovating our Baldwin campus, we looked to people in the Baldwin community to employ them to do the work— just as we did with our Brooklyn cam-
Public Notices
account of Nassau County Public Administrator, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Paul Curran, should not be judicially settled.
[X] Further relief sought (if any):
1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility, and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;
2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $ 150,820.29 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 58,440.30 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);
3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 210,972.66 as and for legal fees and disbursements, of which $ 30,972.66 has been paid and $ 180,000.00 is unpaid;
4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $17,229.67 of which $ 11,229.67 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid;
5. Releasing and discharging the surety;
6. Rejecting and denying the claim of Islandwide Surgical, P.C. in the amount of $ 1,066,000.00;
7. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Paul Curran, decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship; And further directing the share determined to be payable to Estate of Theresa Murphy, if any, be deposited with the New York State
Comptroller on account for the estate of Theresa Murphy, post deceased alleged distributee, should an estate fiduciary not be appointed and said distributees of Theresa Murphy default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship; And further directing that the share determined to be payable to Estate of Andrew Eichner, if any, be deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the estate of Andrew Eichner, post deceased alleged distributee, should an estate fiduciary not be appointed and said distributees of Andrew Eichner default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship; 8. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper.
Dated, Attested, and Sealed, March13, 2025 (Seal) HON. HON.
MARGARET C. REILLY
Surrogate s/ Debra Keller
Leimbach Chief Clerk
Signature of Attorney
Richard T. Kerins, Esq.
Print Name of Attorney Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC
Firm Name (516) 538-1111
Telephone 254 Nassau Boulevard South, Garden City South, New York 11530 Address rkerins@mmkolaw.com Email (optional) NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or petitioner’s attorney 152409
pus,” Stevenson said.
The church worked with local businesses like Baldwin Brothers, Inc., ensuring that their efforts benefited the Baldwin community. Beyond renovations, Hope City Church focused on connecting with local residents to identify and address their needs.
The pandemic was a significant challenge, especially for churches in the northeast, which faced longer shutdowns than other parts of the country. During the shutdown, Hope City transformed its Baldwin campus into a studio for livestream services, reaching people beyond the local community.
“We faced the reality of paying off a building and completing renovations but no physical services for over a year,” Stevenson recalled. “What we did that year was nothing short of God ‘making room.’”
As the Baldwin campus continues to grow, Minister Richard Maitland, the Baldwin campus director, shared some of the church’s long-term goals.
“Some of our long-term goals to impact the community is by supporting and partnering with current community initiatives like Baldwin Chamber, The Grand Baldwin Festival, and Baldwin Little League,” Maitland said. “In addition to these partnerships, we are focusing on bringing our large-scale Brooklyn campus community events and outreach, like Harvest Fest, Hope Market, and educational scholarships, to Baldwin to invest in our local youth and young adults.”
As the church looks ahead, they are focused on remaining a meaningful part of Baldwin for years to come. One way they plan
to achieve this is by bringing their popular Brooklyn event, Harvest Festival, to Baldwin this fall. The event offers families a fun, safe alternative to Halloween with bounce houses, game trucks, and food.
Additionally, the church plans to launch Hope Market in Baldwin later this year, providing free, fresh produce to address food insecurity in the community.
“We remain committed to our church’s vision and mission, and we remain committed to the local Baldwin community,” Stevenson emphasized. “As Hope City Church celebrates five years in Baldwin, its commitment to service, community, and growth is stronger than ever.”
Courtesy Gregory S. Alexander, Shaka Creative
Senior Pastor Tyrone Stevenson spoke to the Herald about the journey of Hope City Church to Baldwin.
Courtesy Gregory S. Alexander, Shaka Creative
Since 2003, Hope City Church has served the East New York Area of Brooklyn through Christian stewardship. Five years ago, they opened a second location in Baldwin.
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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
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
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
Eldercare Offered
Senior Caregiver/ Housekeeping Available. Private/ Professional. CNA* HHA* CCA Certified. Experienced/ Excellent References. Emma 516-519-0456
Hebrew Academy of Long Beach seeks educators to join our exceptional school faculty in fostering a culture of academic exploration and excellence and dedication to spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth of all students. We are currently looking for candidates in the following divisions:
Lev Chana Early Childhood:
• Early Childhood Assistant Teachers
• Early Childhood Head Teachers
HALB Elementary School:
• Middle School Language Arts Teacher
• Elementary School Assistant Teachers
DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys:
• Business and Entrepreneurship Teacher
• Science Teacher
• STEM Teacher
• Math Teacher
• Resource Room Teacher
To learn more about our school community, please visit www.halb.org. We look forward to hearing from you! Please send resumes or inquiries to resumes@halb.org.
The permit is taking forever, Part 2
Q. I’m waiting months for a permit and they keep asking for added notes and plan changes, but not all at once. It’s a complete runaround. Why is this happening? My business is losing money and I’m losing patience.
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A. Continuing from two weeks ago, people often have unrealistic expectations of the review process. When plans are submitted, the process begins with assigning an application designation. Many departments have a large backlog of applications, which means that they will often get to yours in the order it came in. There are the applications that jump ahead of the line for various reasons, from medical emergencies to fire repair, decisions made by economic development criteria from higher up the government chain, etc.
I’m often asked about who the client can talk to in order to speed things up. This sends a message to me that the whole review process is about to slow down even more. From experience, I reply that the applicant can “try whatever method they want, but be careful.” If someone actually does skip the line, I am aware that it may backfire, because pressuring plan reviewers can sometimes lead to delays and friction when the reviewer kicks the plans back with objections that make the owner insist that the “architect should have known this.”
Objections may seem purposeful, but because they’re legitimate, the application is on hold, and takes pressure off the reviewer. Pressuring the reviewers is not recommended. Architects are burdened enough with never knowing whether they should add all kinds of notes to the plans, or when to keep things simpler. For example, some reviewers want reprints of building code sections on the plans, only to find that another reviewer wants those same notes removed from the plans, causing further delays, to put the researched code notes on plans, and then delays in revising plans afterward. It’s a lose/lose situation guaranteed to cause further delay, but “that’s the way it is.”
There are also delays caused by the fact that your approval process may involve your local jurisdiction, separate review by the fire marshal’s office at the county level, review by the engineering department of your local government and possibly the county department of public works if the property in question is on a county roadway. You may also be asking for something proposed to occupy the building that requires a “change of use” approval, with a zoning case that may add months and even years to the process.
I recently walked with a dentist up and down a commercial district street, and we looked in the windows of three locations the dentist was interested in. Placards on the windows showed announcements for zoning hearings from two to four years ago. All of the businesses were still empty. What does that possibly tell you? There may be inadequate parking or drainage issues, previous open permits not resolved, etc. The process isn’t simple, and you must be prepared for the course it may take. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper
Readers
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Protecting New Yorkers from drugged drivers
new York is one of only four states in the nation with an archaic law that stands in the way of prosecuting drugged drivers. It doesn’t permit drugged driving charges unless the drug is on a statutory list of controlled substances, no matter how impaired the driver is. Law enforcement officers must identify the drug before they can test the driver, and if it’s not on the list, they can’t charge the driver with DUI. As a result, drivers are sometimes not held accountable for endangering innocent lives. It is vital that this law be changed to close this loophole, so that law enforcement can make our roads safer by charging drivers who are under the influence of any impairing drug. In 2023, the National Transportation Safety Board recommended that New York eliminate the restrictive controlled-substance list.
With new synthetic drugs continually emerging, relying on a list is futile — especially since some of the most devastating vehicular accidents have involved individuals who were dangerously impaired by a mixture of drugs,
Amaking it difficult to precisely identify them. It’s important to note that when a driver is charged with DWI, the type of alcohol doesn’t need to be identified. It should be the same way with drugs.
I am a cosponsor of the Deadly Driving Bill (A.3981), I strongly advocate passing it right away, and I also support the governor’s drugged-driving budget proposal. It is paramount that we close this dangerous loophole in order to protect drivers and passengers across the state by getting dangerously impaired people off the road.
The Deadly Driving Bill would close a dangerous loophole in state law.
I commend the wide coalition of traffic safety advocates, public health organizations, criminal justice professionals, businesses and organizations that are working collaboratively to champion passage of this law. This has been a 17-year-long mission for Maureen McCormick, special assistant district attorney for legislative initiatives in Suffolk County, as well as for a growing list of Long Island families that have lost loved ones, the Coalition to Protect New Yorkers from Drugged Driving, the state District Attorneys Association and more than 40 other organizations.
My heart breaks for families that have experienced the devastating loss
of loved ones, and those who are caring for family members with traumatic injuries. They have courageously shared their stories about their daughters, sons, mothers and fathers, conveying their immense loss in an effort to ensure that no other families feels the pain they have suffered. It’s astonishing that opposition to this bill remains.
In some states, there have been false claims of arrests for coffee, aspirin, or food allergies or additives. I can understand the concern about ensuring that laws are enforced equitably, and not used to target people based on race, but five years of drugged-driving arrest data by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service revealed that roughly 70 to 75 percent of those arrested were white, 11 to 14 percent were Black and 9 to 11 percent were Hispanic. If this law goes into effect, this data should continue to be tracked to ensure racial equity.
Here are some illuminating statistics reported by Newsday:
■ About 41 percent of the 695 traffic fatalities in Suffolk County from 2019 to 2023 involved “substance-related” drivers, and about 35 percent in Nassau. Both counties are higher than the state-
wide rate of 31 percent. Nassau County’s traffic fatality rate, 4.8 deaths per 100,000 population, was slightly lower than the statewide average. The Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research defines “substance-related” crashes as involving alcohol, illegal drugs and/or prescription medication, as recorded in police crash reports, tickets, and alcohol test and/or drug tests. (Testing positive for drugs or alcohol does not necessarily indicate impairment.)
■ In New York, there was a 24 percent increase in roadway fatalities between 2018 and 2022, a 15 percent increase in fatalities involving drivers who had been drinking, and a 35 percent increase in drug-related driving fatalities.
■ Between 2018 and 2022, the number of drivers refusing to take chemical tests doubled, from 11 to 22 percent. Drivers can refuse the test, unless a crash involves a serious injury or death.
■ Between 2013 and 2022, there was an 87 percent increase in the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes who tested positive for at least one drug on the Public Health Law list. This number does not include drugs that are not on the list, or drivers who were not subjected to testing.
Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.
Some thoughts on books, privilege and girlhood
s an avid reader, I’ve always had a fond place in my heart for historical fiction and period pieces, but I enjoy exploring a number of genres. Toward the end of 2024 and so far this year, I’ve found myself gravitating toward women-centric contemporary fiction and comingof-age novels, which would normally imply that they feature teenagers or young-adult characters and themes, but I think their impact is broader. We’re constantly changing and growing, and whether we come to realizations about life at 15 or 55, they impact our sense of self.
I’ve often said that the best writers are also the best readers, and as a young woman navigating the craziness of life, I’ve found comfort in books that showcase both the hardships, and the joys, of girlhood. There is so much pressure these days to adhere to societal standards — which can vary so greatly depending on whom you’re talking to — and not enough conversations about
what’s actually important to modern, up-and-coming women. Everything we want for ourselves, and every decision we make, is so important.
fort in knowing that the struggles of young women aren’t unique to our culture, but rather, are shared by many.
SMarch is Women’s History Month, and I considered just rattling off a number of my favorite empowering reads, but I realized I could never narrow down the list. So instead I’m switching gears, and homing in on a recent read of mine, the young adult novel “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” by Angeline Boulley.
This was my first exposure to Native American literature. The book’s protagonist, Daunis Fontaine, is a biracial high school senior who lives in a mostly indigenous community near an Ojibwe reservation in Northern Michigan. The Ojibwe are a large Native group in the Great Lakes region of the U.S. and Canada. While the book is largely about a drug-related scandal that wreaks havoc in Fontaine’s Native community, it also conveys so many important undertones relating to her culture and womanhood. Full of twists and turns, it kept me on my toes, and left me with an understanding of a culture I wasn’t familiar with and a sense of com-
ome days, it’s so hard to be a woman that I wonder if we’re heading backward.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve thought a lot about the concept of privilege because of another book, “Difference Matters,” by Brenda J. Allen, which I read for a class I’m taking through Stony Brook University. Allen crafts meaningful observations about various social groups, and effectively communicates why and how our differences matter in fascinating ways. She defines privilege as “unacknowledged entitlement that one receives,” and in a series of exercises, she encourages readers to think about the things in their lives that have given them privilege.
I’ll be the first to admit that some days, it is so hard to be a woman. The negative rhetoric, and the legal moves that are stripping women in the United States of rights they previously had, sometimes make me wonder if we’re heading backward. Despite those doubts, I am also so proud to be a woman — one with a voice, and drive, and dreams that I know I will work hard to achieve.
Daunis Fontaine has a voice, drive, and dreams, too. As do Rocky, the middle-aged, comical protagonist in Catherine Newman’s novel “Sandwich”; Caroline Ferriday, a real person whose story is told in Martha Hall Kelly’s “Lilac Girls”; and Isabelle Rossignol, a young woman who is part of the French resistance in World War II in Kristin Hannah’s work of historical fiction, “The Nightingale.”
I’ve listed a few additional reads of mine to make this point: I am so privileged to have had access to these works — to read and think about things with free will — and to be able take the time to ponder what they mean to me, and hopefully to other women, too.
The weight of girlhood is heavy, but so is its strength. Reading these stories has reinforced what I’ve always known to be true — that women’s voices, whether in fiction or in real life, hold immense power. The privilege of having access to these narratives is one I don’t take lightly, and as I continue to learn and grow, I hope to carry that same power into the spaces I occupy. Because every woman’s story deserves to be told, and more important, heard.
Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? jvallone@liherald.com.
JUDY GRiFFin
JoRDAn VALLonE
History should not be a political casualty
recent actions by the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies to remove web pages highlighting the contributions of Black, Hispanic and female veterans raise a critical question: Are we confusing history with diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives? And more important, what does the loss of historical information mean for present and future generations?
The removal of these pages from Arlington National Cemetery’s website, along with thousands of other web pages across government platforms, was carried out to comply with an executive order issued by President Trump.
The order, which aimed to eliminate DEI initiatives in federal programs, mandated that any DEI-related content published between Jan. 20, 2021, and Jan. 19 of this year be either archived or removed. As a result, significant historical records, including those recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of marginalized groups in the U.S. military, have been erased from public view.
The decision reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the distinction between diversity efforts and historical documentation. DEI initiatives are designed to promote fairness, representation and opportunity for marginalized communities. History, on the other hand, is an objective record of the past — one that cannot be rewritten or selec-
letters
tively deleted without serious consequences for society as a whole.
When we remove historical information under the guise of eliminating DEI, we are erasing the stories and experiences that have shaped the nation. The contributions of African American soldiers who fought in segregated units during World War II, the bravery of Hispanic servicemen in the Korean War, and the pioneering achievements of female military officers are not “DEI content.” They are part of the fabric of American history.
By erasing these stories from public platforms, we are denying future generations the opportunity to learn from the struggles and triumphs of those who came before them. We are also depriving historically marginalized communities of the recognition and respect they deserve. History gives us a deeper understanding of our nation’s progress — and its failures. Without it, we risk repeating the mistakes of the past and failing to appreciate the diversity and resilience that define America.
The removal of content highlighting the contributions of marginalized groups does not end DEI; it merely attempts to silence the voices of those who have long fought for recognition and equality in our society. The effort to scrub this content from government websites sets a dangerous precedent. It suggests that historical facts can be elimi-
Our representatives must stand up for Medicaid funding
To the Editor:
On March 7, hundreds gathered at the State Office Building in Hauppauge to advocate for a 7.8 percent targeted increase in Medicaid rates for disability services to address rising costs, ensure fair pay for staff, and stabilize the care system for people with disabilities.
As a father of an adult child with disabilities who relies on Medicaid-supported services, I feel an overwhelming responsibility to advocate for the protection and support of staff, whose roles are crucial in caring for those with disabilities. These significant issues have profound personal and far-reaching effects for families like mine.
For over 25 years, my son Bobby has received exceptional care from the Developmental Disabilities Institute in Smithtown. The dedication and compassion of their staff have greatly enriched his life, helping him accomplish daily tasks. Their work is more than just a job; it is a calling driven by empathy and a commitment to improving lives. These critical services deserve fair compensation and job security.
In addition, the proposed hundreds of billion of dollars in cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental
nated or hidden when they become politically inconvenient. That isn’t the behavior of a free and democratic society.
The loss of historical information has far-reaching implications. For educators and students, online resources serve as vital tools for teaching American history. For researchers and historians, they provide access to primary sources and documentation that help us understand the evolution of social and political movements.
Restoring the content that was removed from Arlington National Cemetery’s website and other federal platforms isn’t just about complying with government policy — it’s about protecting the truth. Historical documentation must be treated as sacred, separate from politics or ideological battles. Federal agencies must prioritize the preservation of historical records, regardless of whether those stories align with the current political environment. Educational institutions, historians and advocacy groups must also work to archive and share information through independent platforms to ensure that those stories are not lost forever.
In a democracy, history belongs to the people — all the people. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard that history, not erase it. Without an honest and complete understanding of our past, we cannot hope to build a more just and equitable future.
Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are deeply troubling. These programs serve as lifelines, supporting people like my son and often the staff caring for him and his peers, many of whom seek supplemental food support
because of their low-wage status. Cutting funds for these programs is more than an economic decision; it is a moral one that will have devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.
opinions Preparing for real work, not just a job
as high school seniors and others contemplate their college plans, it is timely to remind them about the purpose of higher education. This is especially true at a time when there are those who question the value of universities and focus on vocational rather than on advanced education. Critics also tend to focus on the means for learning rather than on its purpose.
roBert a . sCott
A college education is much more than job prep. It is as much about character development and preparation for civic engagement as it is about preparing for a career. Too many people focus on immediate job placement instead of preparing for a life with the potential for multiple careers.
As Bill Gates once said, jobs are eliminated, but “work” — opportunities for solving problems — expands. So how best can students prepare for a future in which they see themselves as problem-solvers in constantly evolving work settings? That’s the role of colleges and universities.
In 1900, farm employment accounted for nearly 40 percent of all jobs. Today it’s about 10 percent. Technology and new management techniques are the
difference. At the end of World War II, service industries accounted for 10 percent of nonfarm employment, compared with 38 percent for manufacturing. Since the 1970s, the American economy has moved away from producing goods to providing services, and the service sector has accounted for an increasing proportion of jobs and workers.
CThe work necessary for sustainable, civil communities will continue to expand. Technological tools are increasingly available, but create ethical challenges and require educated judgment. AI should be used as a tool, not as a crutch or a substitute for thinking. Work requires information verification, not just data gathering. AI will eliminate jobs, and those graduating from colleges and universities must be prepared for this new world of employment options.
ing a civilization compatible with its inhabitants’ aspirations and the limitations of the natural environment; teach students to appreciate other cultures; and apply theory to practical problems.
ollege is as much about character development as it is about career prep.
Colleges seek to help students’ transformation into productive citizens and professionals. Cooperative education, internships and service learning all reinforce classroom learning. Students gain the confidence to formulate ideas, take initiative, increase their ability to reason in different modes, solve problems, and develop communication and computational skills as well as imagination, the ability to consider ideas from different angles through exposure to the arts, literature and other cultures.
■ Graduates have lower unemployment rates than those with only a high school diploma. They also report higher job satisfaction and better career prospects.
■ Most graduates view their college education as a good investment.
We know the skills and abilities that organizations want in employees. Beyond technological know-how, they want people who can learn to analyze problems and create ethical solutions — i.e., add value and perform — without AI support. These are the skills and abilities necessary for all work, from corporate to public service to community-based jobs.
The purpose of a college education is to help students advance their knowledge, both general and expert; skills such as writing and speaking; abilities such as analysis and leadership; and values such as respect for others and teamwork. This includes the ability to understand the choices that await them as citizens, consumers, decision-makers, and arbiters of ethical alternatives. The purpose is also is to inspire students to contemplate the meaning of life; help them become capable of build-
Letters
I urge our local congressional representatives, including Nick LaLota and Andrew Garbarino, to oppose these cuts. I encourage them to advocate for sustainable funding that prioritizes the well-being of those who depend on these critical support services. An investment now will secure the present and safeguard the future for people like my son.
JoSePh W. SChMIdT
Board of Directors chair Developmental Disabilities Institute Wantagh
Why is all that opioid money sitting idle?
To the editor:
Nassau County has received $95.5 million from New York state for opioid treatment and awareness, part of the opioid lawsuit settlement. of that amount, $39.5 million has been awarded. h owever, awarded does not mean spent. In reality, the county has only spent $3 million of that
$95.5 million.
Meanwhile, 210 residents died of overdoses in 2023. data for 2024 has not yet been released.
To make matters worse, County e xecutive Bruce Blakeman has been publicly highlighting the $39.5 million in awarded funds — an impressive figure on its face — while omitting the far less impressive $3 million that has actually been spent.
This lackadaisical approach to deploying lifesaving resources is not only negligent and callous, but also appears to be financially motivated. Since receiving the funds, Nassau County has accrued millions in interest from the unspent balance sitting idle on its books. What does it say about our county executive that he appears willing to gamble with lives for financial gain? Surely there are more ethical and effective ways to manage the county’s finances — ones that don’t come at the expense of public health. PeTroS KroMMIdAS
They learn how to learn on their own as well as in groups. We hope they will learn to think strategically about their lives, even taking a job so they have a base from which to pursue bigger dreams. We also hope they will develop a sense of humor and can laugh at themselves.
The benefits of college graduation are well known:
■ Possessing a degree provides access to a wider array of opportunities.
■ Certain fields in technology, health care and education require a degree.
Just think of the work to be done in a society: clean, affordable and dependable energy sources; reliable, inexpensive mass transportation and infrastructure; secure information systems; effective schools, health care, and fire and flood protection; safe, nourishing and affordable food; affordable housing; clean water and sanitation; peaceful relations among nations; and equal access to the rule of law.
These and other requirements for a sustainable, civil society represent problems to be identified, analyzed and solved — work to be done.
Dr. Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and co-author of “Letters to Student: What it Means to be a College Graduate” (Roman & Littlefield, 2024).
Framework by Tim Baker
The seniors win the cup at Rock Rivalry — East Rockaway High School
Thursday, April 10, 2025
