In a colorful, energetic and emotional staging of “The Wiz,” students at Woodward Children’s Center brought down the house last week, presenting the musical in what codirectors Matthew Heller and Jonathan Kaplan called their best show yet.
“This is our fifth show that we’ve put on here at Woodward,” said Heller, who created the school’s musical theater program five years ago, during the pandemic shutdown. “I started as an English teacher, and I have a background in music education, so once this
program got started, it just kind of fell into my lap as a natural fit.”
The cast included 19 students, and eight more worked on the stage crew, all of them high school age, ranging from 14 to 21. Many of them deal with social and emotional challenges.
For Heller and Kaplan, that made their performances all the more powerful.
“The music in ‘The Wiz’ is a lot more fun and funky,” Heller explained, noting that after four years of Disney-centric musicals, he wanted something “fun and upbeat” but also unfamiliar and challenging for the stu-
Continued on page 10
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
After working more than five decades in science education, Jeffrey Herschenhous, of Merrick, didn’t slow down when he retired three years ago — he picked up a carving tool and started sculpting.
About 30 of his intricate wooden creations are now on display at the Freeport Recreation Center’s Art Alcove for the month of April, a source of pride not only for Herschenhous, 81, but also for his wife, Susan, and the Freeport-Merrick communities that have watched him grow into this next chapter of his life.
Iwatching instructional videos on YouTube, and believe it or not, that’s how I learned.”
’m the kind of guy who, if I’m interested
A longtime user of the recreation center’s pool and gym facilities — “maybe 20 years,” he estimates — Herschenhous would often stop into the Art Alcove to view the works on display. But it was his deep, intuitive passion for wooden sculpture that eventually drew him in as a featured artist.
in something, I just go out and learn about it.
JEFFREy
HERsCHENHous retired science director
“I was a science director in public schools, and I taught biology as well,” Herschenhous said. “And then I finally retired, and I’m the kind of guy who, if I’m interested in something, I just go out and learn about it. So I always wanted to be able to carve and sculpt things, and I started to try this, and I started
Herschenhous began carving with a simple knife, but transitioned to using specialized power tools, including a high-speed rotary tool called a Dremel —commonly used by jewelers and dental technicians for detailed carving and etching work.
The transformation from biology teacher to artist was sparked just three years ago, after he left his final teaching role at the Allen-Stevenson School in Manhattan.
“I figured I could teach a few more years, not being adminis-
Continued on page 9
Tim Baker/Herald
arianna Saccomanno, as addaperle, and Kristana Valentino, as her assistant, Sabrina, matched flair with comedic timing.
HERALD SchoolS
‘Aida’ performances a huge success in Freeport
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
The Freeport High School Drama Company transported audiences to the sands of ancient Egypt with a moving and masterful production of “Aida,” the Elton John and Tim Rice musical that ran March 27 through 29 at the school’s performing arts center.
From the opening number to the final bow, the student performers captivated theatergoers with soaring vocals, precise choreography, and emotional storytelling.
Senior Tamara Crawford led the cast with a powerful performance as Aida, joined by Emil Collado as Radames and Teena Zarcone as Amneris.
Songs such as “Elaborate Lives” and “The Gods Love Nubia” drew strong reactions from the audience, showcasing not only the emotional weight of the story but the remarkable talents of the student ensemble.
Victoria Martin’s choreography and Melissa Mora’s set design added depth and atmosphere, bringing the
world of Aida vividly to life.
The score, directed by Adam Rubin and supported by orchestra preparation from Jill Boardman, was delivered with professionalism and care.
Director Vashti Burke and producer Renson Delos Santos once again helmed a show that highlighted the dedication and artistry of Freeport’s students.
“Our students were committed to delivering a beautiful performance, and it was inspiring to watch them grow into their roles with each rehearsal,” said Burke. “Beyond the great music, ‘Aida’ carries a powerful message of love and unity — a message that resonates with our students and our Freeport community.”
Each evening ended with enthusiastic applause and standing ovations, as audience members showed their appreciation for the hard work and heart poured into the production.
The Freeport High School Drama Company extended its thanks to the school district and the local community for their ongoing support of the arts.
3-Year-Old Pre-K Lottery Enrolled by lottery
Dual Language offerings available in Kindergarten
Children must be three (3), four (4), or five (5) years old on or before December 1, 2025 to be eligible. Families must reside in Roosevelt to enroll.
Courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Tamara Crawford as Aida and ensemble performed “Dance of the Robe,” a song in which Aida accepts her people’s plea to lead them, during the High School’s production of “Aida” from March 27-29.
Black educators committee throws gala
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
The Black Educators Committee, Inc. hosted its annual Legends Ball on April 5, drawing more than 140 attendees to Verdi’s of Westbury for the 2025 “Sapphire Gala,” subtitled “May the Work I Have Done Speak for Me.”
The event honored five local trailblazers for their steadfast commitment to education and youth empowerment while raising scholarship funds for college-bound students.
This year’s gala theme paid tribute to the qualities symbolized by the sapphire—nobility, truth, sincerity, and faithfulness.
“They chose, or they believe that the attributes of the gem sapphire was representative of the special attributes from our honorees for the 2025, year,” said BEC President Vashti Burke. “These individuals have been so steadfast in people’s lives for the kids they reach, that that is why they’re being recognized.”
The honorees— Jacci Harris, Christine Layne-Waters, Jean Tucker, Johane Ligondè, and Robert L. Johnson—were each chosen for their significant impact on education and community service.
Robert Johnson, a retired teaching assistant in the Uniondale School District, has spent decades mentoring students, particularly those with special needs.
“He’s ailing, and we prayed for him, you know, in his health, because it’s rough,” Burke shared. Johnson taught workshops in public speaking through Uniondale Public Library, and his voice—used in both speech and song— became a source of inspiration for youth and adult groups alike. He retired in June 2023 and continues to serve as president of the Friends of the Uniondale Public Library and mentor to the Jr. Friends. Robert Johnson’s motto— “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”— encapsulates the heart of BEC’s mission.
Christine Layne-Waters, the New York State Education Chair for the NAACP, was recognized for more than four decades of advocacy in both public and private education. “Misses Christine waters… so powerful right there,” Burke said.
Waters has worked extensively to promote equity in education and was the copresident of the East Meadow Association of Retired Teachers from 2018 to 2021. Jean Tucker, a retired nurse and Freeport High School alumna, was honored for developing programs like L.A.D.Y. and G.E.N.T.S., which have guided young people in building life skills and self-worth.
“She was the epitome of just womanhood,” said Burke. “I’m a little bit more radical these days, but we need programs like that.” Dr. Johane Ligondè, former principal of John W. Dodd Middle School and now Assistant Superintendent in Elmont, is known for her commitment to social-emotional learning and leadership development.
“She was just a spearhead of sky
breathing, really making sure that social emotional learning was so apparent in our schools,” Burke noted. Dr. Jacci Harris, Executive Director of Access 7 Services and board chair of the Cedarmore Corporation, has led youth empowerment initiatives and educational programs throughout Freeport and Long Island. “So right away: incredible,” Burke said of Harris’s leadership.
The event was also a time to honor past and present BEC leadership.
Burke reflected on her journey within the organization, from member to social media chair, then parliamentarian, vice president, and finally president as of August 2024.
“I really understand more than ever how important it is to have organizations like us that can stand and speak for people,” she said.
Saundra Wilson, who serves on the Legends Ball Committee, emphasized the hard work behind the scenes.
“The event, I felt was very successful. We had three politicians who attended… and also two other national sorority, or five Delta Kappa… and then we had several a case,” Wilson said.
“As one event ends, then they start working on for the for the next year.” She credited co-chairs Linda Batson and Angela Dickens for leading the planning efforts. Admission to the gala was $140 per person, with all proceeds going toward BEC’s scholarship fund. The committee has selected eight scholarship recipients, who will be honored at a special ceremony at Freeport Memorial Library on May 15.
“Every dollar beyond their plate right is going to help a young person reached their dreams of higher education, because that’s the point,” Burke said. On May 16, BEC will also host a book talk featuring Freeport High School alumna Bria Baker, author of Rooted.
Honorees Johane Ligondè, Christine Layne-Waters, Jean Tucker and, Jacci Harris, with Saundra Wilson were recognized for their unwavering commitment to education, leadership, and community service during the 2025 Black Educators Committee Sapphire Gala. Robert Johnson not pictured.
“She’s a 2012 graduate of Freeport High School… went on to Yale… Her book discusses land ownership and the importance of land ownership for African Americans,” Burke said. “We just are like, look, this is what it’s about.”
As the BEC continues its mission of
Black Educators Committee
President Vashti Burke embodies the spirit of leadership and legacy celebrated at the 2025 Sapphire Gala.
advocacy and empowerment, the Sapphire Gala offered a reminder of the lasting impact community leaders can have.
“The name of the game for the organization is volunteerism is service,” Burke said. “Because, what if everybody turned cold… Where would we all be?”
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Lashonda Gardennire, Saundra Wilson, Jourdain Datson, Dr. John Udaze, Tina Thompson, Dr. Wendy Walker Jackson, Cynthia Vanager-McManus, Dr. Linda Thomas-Batson, President Vashti Burke, and Angela Dickens enjoyed a successful evening of celebration and community impact at the 2025 Sapphire Gala, held April 5 at Verdi’s of Westbury.
Protecting Your Future
The Young Family Estate Plan (YFEP)
Parents of young children often overlook the need to plan for death or disability. Many believe they don’t have enough assets yet or that anything they have will automatically go to their spouse. However, every young parent needs basic documents – a Will, Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy –what we term a “Young Family Estate Plan” (YFEP), that formalize your wishes in a variety of unexpected circumstances.
Without a YFEP, if one spouse dies, any assets that were in the husband’s or wife’s name alone will be subject to a court proceeding to name an “administrator” of the estate and New York law decides who gets which assets. The first $50,000 goes to the surviving spouse and the rest is divided 50% to the spouse and 50% to the children. The court will appoint a legal guardian to manage the money for them and then, ready or not, any remaining funds would be turned over at age 18.
If your spouse becomes disabled, and
Trump taps D’Esposito to be labor inspector general
Former Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, a former NYPD detective and one-term congressman from New York, has been nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as inspector general for the Labor Department.
If confirmed by the Senate, D’Esposito would oversee investigations into wasteful or fraudulent spending within the department. He would replace Larry Turner, who was fired after Trump took office.
D’Esposito represented New York’s 4th Congressional District, which includes Nassau County’s South Shore, before losing his seat to Rep. Laura Gillen. Before his time in Congress, he served as a Hempstead Town councilman.
His nomination comes amid controversy. A New York Times report during his re-election campaign alleged that he had an affair and placed both his mistress and his fiancée’s daughter on his taxpayer-funded payroll.
A vocal Trump supporter, D’Esposito appeared at the president’s rallies last year at Nassau Coliseum and Madison Square Garden. In Congress, he served on the Homeland Security, Administration, and Transportation and Infrastructure committees. He also gained attention as the first Republican to call for then-Rep. George Santos to resign or be expelled for falsifying his résumé and background.
–Hernesto Galdamez
you don’t have a Power of Attorney for them, you must petition the court to be appointed as your spouse’s legal guardian to handle their affairs (such as selling or refinancing the house or drawing funds from their accounts). The court may decide against you as legal guardian and appoint someone else.
A YFEP also includes life insurance reviews and recommendations, so in the event your spouse dies you will have the financial resources to raise your children.
A YFEP (1) ensures that all of your spouse’s assets go to you and not half to your children if your spouse dies unexpectedly, (2) allows you to choose the legal guardian for your children, and at what age they will receive the unused assets, (3) avoids guardianship proceedings should your spouse have a disabling accident or illness, and (4) provides the financial wherewithal so that your children may continue to prosper and thrive.
LAW FIRM
Tim Baker/Herald
Former Rep. Anthony D’Esposito has been selected by President Donald Trump to serve as the inspector general for the Department Labor.
Attorney advertising
JULIANA CERASI
Wantagh Senior Lacrosse
IT HAS BEEN A HISTORIC run for Cerasi since last spring when she and classmate Riley Forthofer and the Warriors defeated Manhasset for the Nassau Class C girls’ lacrosse title. The pair went on to win county championships in soccer and basketball, making for a rare backto-back-to back. Cerasi earned All-County and Second Team All-Long Island in lacrosse in 2024 when she totaled 34 goals with 11 assists. She’s headed to James Madison.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, April 10
Baseball: Baldwin at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Baseball: Long Beach at Mepham 5 p.m.
Baseball: Hewlett at Calhoun
Softball: West Hempstead at Hewlett
Boys Lacrosse: V.S. District at Freeport
Boys Lacrosse: Clarke at Baldwin
Girls Lacrosse: North Shore at Garden City 5 p.m.
Friday, April 11
Baseball: Oceanside at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Baseball: V.S. North at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Baseball: Clarke at V.S. South 5 p.m.
Baseball: West Hempstead at Uniondale
Softball: Lawrence at V.S. Central
Softball: Long Beach at Freeport
Softball: East Rockaway at Elmont
Boys Lacrosse: Plainedge at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Carey 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at South Side 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Clarke at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Wantagh at South Side 7 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Manhasset at Long Beach 7 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Freeport tackles tough competition
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
After achieving a near .500 record in Conference V last season, Freeport softball is set for another challenging schedule this spring.
Freeport, which made the jump to Conference V three years ago after reaching the playoffs in 2021, went 5-7 in league play last season and ended the campaign with three straight wins against Roslyn, Great Neck South and West Hempstead. The Red Devils this spring are embarking on a 16-game conference slate with a mix of Conference V and Conference VI opponents.
“It’s definitely a grind of a season,” said eight-year Freeport head coach Rich Genzone. “Both conferences are very competitive teams so it is definitely a tough schedule.”
Junior Gabriella Nurse returns to anchor the pitching staff and is also an offensive force at the plate who plays shortstop when not on the mound. Genzone said Nurse has developed a strong mix of pitches from a fastball, change up to screw ball.
“She’s competitive and she’s fierce,” said Genzone of Nurse, who tossed a five-inning no-hitter with 12 strikeouts in an 18-0 win against West Hempstead to end last season. “She has a lively arm and has a solid bat who hits for contact and I would say she is going to get plenty of college looks.”
Freshman Kassandra Cazares is also a capable pitcher who Genzone has strong command of on the mound with an ability to throw strikes at the corner of the plate with solid spin on the ball. The versatile Cazares can also play second base or shortstop when not in the pitchers circle.
Junior Deanna Reyes adds to the team’s versatility in the middle infield as another capable short stop or second baseman depending on who is pitching. Genzone said Reyes also brings a lot of power to the lineup.
Sarah Martinez is also emerging as a key contributor early on as a first baseman in her first season on varsity as
junior. Amelia Espino brings experience as the lone senior on the team and will be slotted in as the designated hitter while also playing outfield at times as well.
Eighth grader Desiree Rodriguez has emerged as the starting catcher and leadding the pitching staff.
“She falls into the mix with everyone and everyone has brought her in and she seems to be developing well,” said Genzone of Rodriguez. “ She’s gaining strength and she’s gaining confidence.”
The Red Devils will host Wheatley on Thursday at 5 p.m. and return home Fri-
day for another late afternoon home game against Long Beach. Freeport then hits the road for four straight games before facing New Hyde Park for a Saturday morning game on April 26 at 10 a.m.
“We’re trying to develop and it is good to see the kids trying to give their best effort,” Genzone said. “We’re improving every day similar to what happened last year when we started off slow and took our lumps and then a little more than halfway through we started gaining a lot of momentum so that is what I’m hoping will happen this year as well.”
Justine Stefanelli/Herald
Junior Gabriella Nurse returns to anchor the pitching staff and is also an offensive force at the plate who plays shortstop when not on the mound.
We don't do it for the attention. We don't do it for the recognition. We don't do it for the personal gain. And we certainly don't do it for the awards. We do it for you.
Catholic Health is the winner of Press Ganey’s 2025 HRO Foundation Award for exceptional reliability and patient safety.
At Catholic Health, we pursue the very best in health care for one reason only: you. Every single one of you that walks through our doors, every day. So, while we’re honored by this recognition, we also know there’s no finish line in health care. There’s always a new goal just over the horizon, and a new level of excellence for us to achieve for the health of Long Island.
Learn more at DedicatedtoBetter.org
Steven Kent appointed LIA’s chief economist
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Steven Kent, an economist and financial expert with over 25 years of experience with Goldman Sachs, was recently named chief economist of the Long Island Association Research Institute.
The LIA is a nonprofit business organization advocating for the region’s economic vitality and overall business community. In his role, Kent will provide real-time economic insights that will allow business across Long Island to forecast for operational success and growth.
“Our mission will be enhanced with the addition of Dr. Steven Kent to the LIA team as the new Chief Economist of the LIA Research Institute,” Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, stated in a press release. “The LIA will be well-served by his extensive private-sector experience and the valuable data and analyses he will provide to our members at this pivotal inflection point for the future of Long Island, and indeed the entire country, as we navigate uncertain economic conditions and the existential crisis of affordability.”
Kent is a lifelong Long Island resident, having grown up in Islip before
attending Stony Brook University, where he became fascinated with economics and received a B.A. in the subject.
“I walked into SUNY Stony Brook and took a class with one of the best professors on campus, intro to economics, and it basically changed my life,” said Kent. “I like the analytic part, the mathematical part, and the social science part.”
Kent joined Goldman Sachs as a junior analyst after graduating, before leaving for another firm and pursuing an MBA at NYU’s Stern School of Business. Then he returned to Goldman Sachs, where he researched and oversaw investments in the global hospitality and leisure sector before he retired as managing director in 2016. Kent was named “best stock picker” eight times by the Wall Street Journal.
“I learned you had to know the companies, you had to understand the stocks, but I started to look at what was going on in the broader economy,” he said.
After retiring, Kent wanted to share what he learned in the industry. “I always wanted to help the next generation of business leaders,” he said. “My whole career, both academic and business, I have had lots and lots of mentors
who guided me, focused me, and helped me out along the way. I wanted to do the same.”
Kent, a Baldwin resident, guest lectured at several universities before becoming a professor of economics and finance at Molloy University. He also received a Ph.D. in hospitality management.
Being named LIA’s chief economist was “a little bit of a surprise,” he said.
Kent will continue teaching at Molloy while serving the LIA. As chief economist, he will share data-informed insights and explanations of the Island’s economy, helping business owners make informed decisions about their businesses.
Kent will be releasing a newsletter broadly reporting on the U.S., New York, and Long Island economies. He will focus on specific topics and develop special projects to uplift the local economy.
According to Kent, Long Island’s current economy is vibrant. “Our unemployment rate is lower than the rest of the country. Our economic activity continues to expand,” he said. “One of the advantages Long Island has is where we’re located, so we have access to transportation and access to great universities, and that facilitates a lot of
growth.”
He said he wants to “help to allow the Long Island economy to continue its robust trajectory.”
Courtesy Steven Kent
Steven Kent grew up in Islip, earned an economics degree at Stony Brook, and then joined Goldman Sachs.
Herschenhous up at the Rec’s Art Alcove
trator,” he said. “So I went down for an interview (at Allen-Stevenson). They offered me the job, and they said to me, ‘How many years do you think you’ll give us?’ I said, ‘About five.’ Twenty-one years later I left.”
Herschenhous’s wooden sculptures draw deeply from nature, and his background in science, particularly evolutionary biology, has been the inspiration for much of his subject matter.
“You’ll see a lot of my stuff, representations of animals … I like organic shapes, forms that are smooth and simple,” he said. “And my goal in sculpting is really to create a design that flows without ornamentation.”
To begin a sculpture, he photographs a subject, enlarges or reduces the image as needed, and affixes the photo to a block of wood — typically basswood, butternut, white pine or white ash. From there, the rough shape is cut out with a scroll saw, and the real work begins.
“Then I go to my workshop and dig in with my tools and carve away and go to work,” he said. “Honestly, this may sound silly, but the wood talks to you and it suggests where to go or what to cut next.”
Though visitors have asked to purchase his work, Herschenhous said he’s too attached to the sculptures to part with them.
“I’ve given to my friends and my family, and to tell you the truth, I haven’t sold one,” he said. “(I) like them too much. I’m too attached.”
A few standouts from his current exhibition include a sculpture of a cat walking down floating stairs, a flowingnecked swan, a bicycle, and a deer.
Herschenhous’s work was previously displayed at the Heckscher Museum of Art in Huntington, where one of his pieces was on display from September to January.
He’s also shown sculptures at libraries in Freeport and Merrick.
Susan Herschenhous said the shift from educator to artist came as no surprise.
“When someone retires from a long career, you know, they really do need to find some kind of a focus,” she said. “I’m so proud of Jeffrey because when he retired he just decided he needed to do something that where he felt productive and where he felt he was using his skills, and the fact that he threw himself into wood sculpting, to me, is an amazing thing.”
His history backs that up — learning to ski in his 20s and becoming a ski patrolman for 30 years, long-distance cycling from Merrick to Montauk, and even sailing a 36-foot boat after deciding to learn the ropes.
The couple has a daughter, Nicole, who lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and three grandchildren.
Herschenhous said he’s actively working on a new piece. “It’s a series of three
sails kind of overlapping each other ... while being blown by the wind heavily,” he explained.
“It makes me very proud and very happy,” he said of his exhibit at the Art
Alcove. “I’ve showed my artwork at other places … but they have been really relatively distant from my home, so to have it here locally, where … my friends go to see it, and it makes me feel very happy.”
sailboat
Photos courtesy Jeffrey Herschenhous a smooth, abstract swan sculpture carved from wood showcases Herschenhous’s interest in organic forms and natural curves.
one of Herschenhous’s favorite works, this deer sculpture highlights his ability to blend elegance with simplicity in wood.
Jeffrey HerscHenHous
Woodward staging allows kids to shine
dents.
“It’s not the genre that these students are very familiar with or have ever really been exposed to in a theater setting before,” he added. “I think it came out incredible. By far the best show that we’ve put on in the last five years.”
The reaction was overwhelmingly positive. “Nothing but praise,” Heller said. “They’re rooting for each other like no other,” he added of the cast members. They’re each other’s biggest fans. … They’ve really taken a personal interest in learning their part to the best of their capability and consistently trying to raise the bar for each other.”
And it didn’t go unnoticed by the audiences, which included fellow students, family members and friends. There were four performances, and the final show having been on Friday evening.
“I’ve gotten nothing but positive praise,” Heller said. “Everyone just seems to be amazed, especially when they take a step back and realize that these are all students who have social and emotional challenges … putting forth honestly the show that I would say is competitive with any high school out there.”
Kaplan, who is also an art teacher and runs the school rock band club, joined the program last year, and quickly found a creative partner in Heller.
“We worked very seamlessly together,” Kaplan said. “Between the two of us, we can cover all of the things that need to be taken care of when it comes to a production.”
For Kaplan, the students’ growth over the past year has been nothing short of inspiring. “The audience might not realize, but we who are with them every day see the hurdles that they’ve overcome,” he said. “Some of these kids were afraid to even come to school. And now look at them on stage, and they’re being fearless.”
Kaplan spoke about the wide range of skills taught in the musical theater program — from singing to stagecraft, dancing, improvisation and audience interaction.
“As the students learn the show, every time they do it, they get better at it,” he said. “… It’s like, you know, when you first start to ride a bike, you’re a little shaky, but then it becomes concretized.”
The response from families has been deeply moving.
“Parents … are like, ‘I didn’t know our son could sing like that,’” Kaplan said. “Or ‘I didn’t know my daughter can be so powerful on stage.’ And for us, we see that every day.”
More than just a school play, ‘The Wiz’ served as a way for students to find their voice and be seen anew.
“With the creative arts, it allows people to shine in a different way,” Kaplan said. “Once you’re out of high school … it’s very difficult to be, like, a professional musician or professional artist. So the fact that we can celebrate these parts of who people are at this age, it’s a beautiful thing. And I’m so glad that we can create these moments.”
Tim Baker/Herald photos
richard a guilar, Scarecrow, maureen Caperna, dorothy, taudis Valdez, the Lion, and taylor robinson played the t inman.
the charismatic ayden Lemoine commanded the stage as the Wiz.
the munchkins’ had a joyful showing early in “the Wiz.”
richard a guilar brought energy and humor to the role of the Scarecrow.
akira Cho brought villainy and power to the role of evilene with her dramatic performance. taylor robinson gave a heartfelt performance as the t inman.
Propel NY aims to update L.I. connectivity
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Propel NY Energy project is a $3.26 billion initiative aimed at modernizing Long Island’s aging electric transmission system.
Why the project Is needed
New York’s electric transmission infrastructure is largely outdated — roughly 80 percent of it was built before 1980, at a time when energy needs were vastly different. With electric vehicles, heat pumps, data centers, and advanced digital technologies there will be a projected 50 to 90 percent increase in electricity demand over the next 20 years. Long Island’s grid, currently connected to the statewide network through only two points, is vulnerable to congestion and outages.
The existing grid faces significant congestion, akin to a crowded highway, which leads to inefficiencies and increased costs. Propel NY Energy is designed to add new transmission pathways that facilitate bidirectional power flow, enhancing both the reliability and resilience of the grid. This project prepares the region for a more robust and future-ready energy infrastructure.
Project scope and technical details
At the heart of the project is the construction of 90 miles of new underground transmission lines, including 66 miles in Nassau County. Additional segments will extend into Suffolk County, the Bronx and Westchester. Unlike surface lines, these cables will be installed underground using conventional trenching methods — typically 5 to 7 feet deep. In logistically challenging areas, advanced trenchless technologies such as horizontal directional drilling will be used. Propel NY Energy will add three new interconnec-
tion points. This enhancement will enable power to flow in multiple directions, relieving congestion and providing critical redundancy.
Propel NY Energy is exclusively focused on upgrading electric transmission infrastructure. It is not associated with battery storage systems or offshore wind projects, though the upgraded grid will support future renewable energy integration. Selected through a competitive solicitation process by the New York Independent System Operator from among 19 proposals by four developers, the project was chosen for its costeffectiveness and technical merits.
Environmental and community considerations
To reduce new environmental disruptions, most of
the project’s new lines will follow existing road corridors and disturbed areas. For segments crossing environmentally sensitive zones, such as the Long Island Sound, the team is applying sediment transport modeling and best management practices. When unavoidable impacts occur — particularly in wetlands — compensatory measures will be implemented by creating two to three acres of new wetlands for every acre affected.
The project is undergoing a review under New York’s Article Seven permitting process. This comprehensive environmental and socio-economic evaluation involves multiple state agencies. Anticipated approval is around July 2026.
Regular open houses and public meetings are planned to keep local communities informed and dispel misconceptions. The project prioritizes local union labor and contractors, ensuring that Nassau County and surrounding areas benefit from job opportunities. Any temporary disruptions will be addressed through detailed restoration plans.
Cost, funding and timeline
The total investment for Propel NY Energy is capped at $3.26 billion, and is funded by ratepayers across the state. For the average residential customer, the project is expected to add roughly 6 cents per day to utility bills. Projected costs are expected to be offset by long-term savings, with enhanced grid efficiency estimated to save nearly $3.3 billion in congestionrelated costs over time.
Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026 and will continue for up to four years, with project completion anticipated by mid-2030. During construction, crews are expected to progress between 50 and 150 feet per day per.
For more on Propel, go to PropelNyEnergy.com.
Lindenhurst’s Pat Benatar rocks and writes
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Singing and writing for over four decades, Pat Benatar has been inspiring her fans with hits including “We Belong “and “Love Is a Battlefield,” and new songs as well, performing alongside her husband and partner, Neil Giraldo. A multi-platinum artist who has had 15 U.S. Billboard Top 40 singles and a fourtime Grammy Award winner, Benatar is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, and even received the Key to Babylon from then Town Supervisor Steve Bellone. Benatar spoke with the Herald about what Lindenhurst still means to her, what continues to inspire her, and some exciting news.
Herald: What are your thoughts on having been inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame?
Benatar: It’s great. I’m still very attached to Lindenhurst. I’m still close friends with all of the girls I went to elementary school, junior high and high school with. We still see each other all the time. Every time we go back, I always try to go to Patsy’s to get a cannoli cookie and Italian Ice. I’m still attached to where I grew up. It was such a wonderful childhood, so being inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame was important and sweet.
Herald: You are not only a singer but a songwriter as well. What has inspired your writing over the years?
Benatar: It’s pretty organic. We don’t begin songs together, my husband and I. He’ll come up with a line or a melody and I’ll come up with a poem. I write all day, that’s all I do. So I’ll come up with a poem, which will become a chorus. Once we do begin the songs, we come together and write the songs together. Inspiration comes from everywhere, which is so fascinating to me, and probably the most seductive thing about what we do. Everything is still interesting, a mystery and exciting, because the world is just an amazing place — crazy and beautiful.
Herald: What has given you strength over the years to truly give your all at your live shows?
Benatar: I just love it. It has never changed for Neil or me. Live performance is still my favorite thing to do. The joy of actually being in a shared experience of performing is still the thing I love the most, that keeps me going, and it’s never old.
Herald: I’m sure you’ve had many career highlights. Are there a couple of moments that have stood out?
Benatar: There are so many moments. Sometimes they’re very small
— a little child will come up to the front of the stage and they hand you a flower. You’re always in awe of being blessed with something like this. I feel like my only job is to be a good steward of what I have.
The thing that stopped me in my tracks, though, I would have to say, was 9/11. We had to perform that night. The promoter begged us to perform. We begged him to please cancel the concert. We were just as distraught as everyone
else. The promoter said that people wanted to come, they wanted to be together. So we went out there and I just said to the audience that before we do this, I need to talk to you all first, because I don’t know how I’m going to do this and I may have to stop songs. The audience was sobbing. It was amazing. It was awful. They had bed sheets with God Bless America on them. This was one of the moments where you understand how important it is what you’re giving to each other in a performance. What they gave to me and what I hope I gave back to them at that moment is healing, it’s an embrace. That’s what it felt like. I felt like they were embracing us and we were embracing them. And songs like “Invincible,” were so powerful that night, it became like a rallying cry. I sang that song a billion times, but that night it was different.
Herald: Do you have any advice regarding resilience, overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, that you would like to share with our women readers in particular?
Benatar: Much has changed, and then much hasn’t changed, and someone is always ready to take it all back away from us. Everyone will push that limit, and you have to stand there like a warrior. Don’t think that you’re safe and everything is going to be OK, because every single day there’s someone challenging the position, trying to take away any strides we have made. I have two daughters, two granddaughters, and my whole thing is, you are unique and at the same time you are part of a collective, you are part of every female that went before you and every female that will go after you. Make it count!
Herald: And what do you have coming up in regard to new music, touring and projects?
Benatar: We’re going out on a spring tour and hitting all the places we didn’t hit last year. We’re looking forward to it. We’ll be pulling out a lot of new songs that haven’t been recorded yet. Neil and I also have a children’s book coming out, “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock.” It’s such unbelievable fun.
The one thing about art is it has so many forms. We have these three darling grandbabies. They are very precocious, and have seen us perform a few times, and they ask us all kinds of questions, so we thought it would be really fun to write them a book about why we do what we do and that people do all different kinds of things for jobs — some people are teachers and doctors, and these are people’s grandpas and grandmas too. It was joyous and fun, and it’s a very inclusive book. I really believe diversity is a superpower.
To learn more about “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock” or to pre-order a copy, visit read.sourcebooks.com/my-grandmaand-grandpa-rock-by-pat-benatar-andneil-giraldo. To find out more about Benatar and her upcoming tour, visit benatargiraldo.com.
Travis Shinn
Pat Benatar with her husband and creative partner, Neil Giraldo.
STEPPING OUT
Where the audience always comes first
Long Island Children’s Museum Theater Director
Jim Packard says goodbye to his role of a lifetime
By Danielle Schwab
There are 140 seats at the theater at Long Island Children’s Museum and Jim Packard has sat in almost every single one.
“There’s not a bad seat in the theater. Wherever you sit, you can see the whole stage, and you’re no more than five, six rows away from the stage, which is pretty special,” he says.
Packard has been instrumental in the growth of the museum’s theatrical programming from inception, since the theater’s construction in 2001. It all begin with a committee he didn’t know he was on, when he was asked to consult on the museum’s theater then in development.
Prior to joining the museum, Packard was involved with theater and event management in Manhattan, and has taught stage technology and design.
“I was asked by a friend on the LICM theater committee to look at the plans the architect had drawn up. Then that spring, they had listed me as ‘not present’ at a theater committee meeting,” Packard recalls.
“I said: ‘I didn’t know I was on this committee, but I’m happy to serve on it and to help out the museum in whatever way I can.’ They said: ‘That’s all right. The committee has dissolved at this point.’
“I asked: ‘Who’s watching out for the theater?’ And that’s when I got hired.”
From his first position — as Theater Coordinator to his final role as Director of Theater Programs — Packard has made his mark over these past 24 years.
His philosophy, in keeping with the museum’s mission, is to put the audience first.
“It always boils down to making sure that the audience is the one that you’re paying attention to, because there’s no point in doing theater without an audience,” he explains. The productions are carefully chosen with a strong focus on audience interaction, with many tying into exhibits and related events.
“Our dressing room door has a big sheet of brown paper on it, and every time the actors hear something fun or interesting coming from the audience, they will write it on that board, just to remind them to pay attention to what the audience is saying,” he adds.
There is sure to be plenty of audience response to the upcoming production of “Elephant and Piggie’s We are in a Play!” The beloved show, opening April 14, which involves the audience as a character in the story, is always popular with visitors. Adapted from Mo Willems’ best-selling children’s series, the hilarious duo of Elephant and Piggie gets tangled in all sorts of antics, learning the meaning of friendship along the way.
“Elephant and Piggie realize there’s an audience watching them, and then they talk and interact with the audience, invite them to sing along and be a part of the show,” Packard says.
With Packard’s retirement this month, the production
• Performances April 14-19, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800 for tickets
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
acts as a passing of the baton to new hands. Taking on the assignment are not one but two folks: Lisa Rudin as artistic director and Austin Costello as technical director.
It’s a full circle moment for both Rudin and Costello, who appeared as Elephant and Piggie in previous stagings of the production.
Costello, a distinguished puppeteer in his own right, has worked with the museum’s theater since 2015.
His love of puppetry started back as a kid in ‘90s, when he visited the museum and saw a puppet on display. His career led him to roles in children’s theater, including Sesame Street.
“The little lessons that we find along the way in our shows are the major takeaways that we get to share with families and especially with kids who might be having problems. It’s such an important thing to me to bring children up in a good way, and to help them understand the world around them,” Costello says.
“It’s wonderful to be able to carry on the legacy of Jim, who’s worked so hard for so many people, and who has taken a lot of time to take me under his wing and train me,” he adds.
Rudin also has a personal history with the museum.
“The first time I came to the theater here was when I brought my children in 2019. I was like, ‘what a beautiful theater this is.’ This is just perfect,” she says.
She has worn many theatrical hats throughout her career, including as an actor on Sesame Street Live and an education director for a children’s theater school.
Rudin and Costello will surely continue the theater’s aim to connect with children through imaginative and creative storytelling,
”Children learn empathy from watching characters on stage. They understand content and what happens in the story more from seeing it live,” Rudin says.
While Packard may be waving goodbye as director, his legacy remains rooted to the museum’s very foundation.
Joan Osborne sings Dylan
The seven-time Grammy nominee brings her extraordinary voice and artistic depth to the timeless music of Bob Dylan.The recent biopic “A Complete Unknown” brings Dylan to the forefront once again. Meanwhile Osborne has spent over 25 years captivating audiences with her fearless exploration of genres ranging from rock and blues to soul, gospel and country. Her journey with Dylan’s catalog began in 2016 with a series of “Dylanology” concerts. Her critically-acclaimed 2018 album, “Songs of Bob Dylan,” and her live performances showcase her ability to reimagine Dylan’s iconic works, highlighting the emotional resonance and poetic brilliance of his music. Osborne turns back the clock with her soulful reinterpretations that exude passion, emotion and energy. .
Friday, April 11, 8 p.m. $59, $55, $48, also special VIP package. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Rick Wakeman
“When I was 19-years-old, walking
“When I was 19-years-old, walking across my college theater’s auditorium, I thought I could do this every day for the rest of my life — and I got that opportunity,” he shares.
“It’s been one of the more wonderful
“It’s been one of the more wonderful experiences in life, in terms of just getting to do so much that makes so many people happy.”
Photos courtesy LICM
Top photo: Outgoing Director Jim Packard, center, and cast and crew of “Interstellar Cinderella” gather at the final performance.
Bottom photo: Elephant (Finn MacDevitt) and Piggie (Anneka Shepherd ) return to the museum’s stage in a production helmed by new Artistic Director Lisa Rudin.
Experience the magic of progressive rock legend Rick Wakeman when he brings his “Final Solo Tour” to Long Island. Renowned for his keyboard wizardry and captivating stage presence, Wakeman invites you on a journey through iconic Yes classics, unforgettable solo compositions and personal favorites. With a career spanning over five decades and album sales exceeding 50 million, Rick’s extraordinary contributions to music have earned him accolades, including a CBE from Queen Elizabeth II. This tour is a heartfelt farewell to his legendary one-man shows in the U.S., but his music will continue to inspire fans worldwide. Rick’s career is a testament to his versatility and enduring artistry. His live performances seamlessly blend masterful musicianship with humor and storytelling, creating an intimate and unforgettable experience.
Wednesday, April 16, 8 p.m. $75, $65, $55, $45, $35, $29.50. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
THE Your Neighborhood
‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’ Spring blooms with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. Before you know back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Saturday, April 19, 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along.
The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/ backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione, have been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Jazz it up
Jazz at Lincoln Center brings its Webop Family Jazz Party’s “Swingin’ Nursery Rhymes and Lullabies” to the Long Island Children’s Museum theater, Sunday, April 13, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Get ready to hear classic nursery rhymes and lullabies like “Old McDonald,” “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and “Wheels on the Bus” with a jazzy twist! Led by talented musicians and educators, little ones will be introduced to the magic of jazz while singing, dancing, and joining in on the fun.
This family-friendly performance is sure to inspire future jazz lovers, so be sure to bring the whole crew for a toe-tapping, finger-snapping good time! $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Go to licm.org or call (516) 2245800 for more information.
Village Planning meeting
Village of Freeport Planning Board holds a public meeting, Tuesday, April 22, 6:30 p.m., to review and discuss planning and development matters affecting the village. Residents are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion. Freeport Village Hall, 46 N. Ocean Ave.
Little Learners’ Earth Day
Planting Fields Little Learners series continues with an Earth Day celebration, Friday, April 18, 10-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a heartwarming and fun-filled experience, with a reading of “Gifts from the Garbage Truck” by Andrew Larsen. Together, explore the importance of reusing, reducing, and recycling in a way that’s perfect for young minds. With an Earth-inspired craft project. For ages 2-5. $15 per child. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. Visit plantingfields. org or call (516) 922-9210 to register and for information.
Walking Wednesday
Join Maryellen Cantanno for Walking Wednesdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Enjoy a 45-minute group walk at a pace set by participants, with all fitness levels welcome. Guided by the health team from Mount Sinai/ South Nassau Hospital, walkers will learn how to stay in tune with their bodies. Some weeks may include off-site meet-ups around the village, and in case of rain, the walk will be held at the Freeport Recreation Center. Call the library to find out this week’s location. Participants must sign a waiver prior to join, which can be found on the library’s website. Visit FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information. 144 West Merrick Road.
Breast Cancer Screenings
Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow partners with NuHealth and the Breast Imaging Center at Nassau University Medical Center to bring the breast cancer screening van to Freeport Memorial Library, Wednesday, April 23 , 8-10:30 a.m. Services include a breast exam by a nurse, a mammogram, and selfexamination instructions. Women over 40 without insurance may qualify for free mammograms through the Cancer Services Program, while those with insurance may be required to make a copayment.
Patients whose last mammogram was over a year ago will need a prescription from their doctor for a bilateral mammogram (if insured) and should bring any past films/CDs if available. Photo ID, proof of address, and an insurance card (if applicable) are required. Appointments are required, and only 10 slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To schedule an appointment, contact Legislator Koslow’s office at (516) 571-6205 or skoslow@ nassaucountyny.gov. For further questions, call (516) 572-3300. 144 W. Merrick Road.
Reiki Sanctuary Hour
Join Jenn with Being Calm Wellness for an hour of rejuvenating and positive energy at Reiki Sanctuary Hour, Monday, April 14, 7-8 p.m., at Sparkle on Stage Cultural Arts Center. All are welcome to relax, recharge, and reconnect in a peaceful setting. 195 Woodcleft Ave.
In concert
Freeport Library’s Belle Sylvester Recital Series presents the Long Island Chamber Orchestra, Friday, April 25, 7-8 p.m. Preview the library’s 2025–26 arts season t with works by Brahms and Shostakovich that highlight the Romantic and Modern eras. Registration required. Visit freeportlibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information.144 West Merrick Road.
Spring Dog Festival
Get ready to wag those tails, at Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Bring your canine companions for a scenic stroll through grounds bursting spring’s first blooms. Browse a selection of local dog-friendly vendors offering unique products and services for your furry friends, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit oldwestburygardens.org.
Village Zoning Board meet
The Village of Freeport Zoning Board convenes for a public meeting to discuss local zoning matters, Thursday, April 17, 6:30 p.m., at Village Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend and stay informed about development and land use decisions within the village. 46 N. Ocean Ave.
Having an event?
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
April 12
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, April 12, 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.
Dig this: call PSEG’s 811 to avoid potential issues
April is National Safe Digging Month, and PSEG Long Island aims to remind customers, contractors and excavators that state law requires calling 811 before digging. The goal is to ensure underground pipelines, conduits, wires and cables are properly marked to prevent accidents.
Striking an underground electrical line can cause severe injury, service outages and costly repairs. Even small projects like planting a tree or installing a fence require a call to 811. The service is free and must be used by both professionals and do-it-yourselfers.
“April’s warmer temperatures bring an increase in outdoor home and business projects,” Michael Sullivan, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Electric Operations, said in a news release. “Calling 811 before digging is critical for protecting underground utility lines and, most importantly, ensuring safety.”
In 2023, nearly 195,000 mark-out requests were made in PSEG Long Islands service area. So far this year, more than 40,000 requests have been placed. But 40 percent of active diggers in North America fail to call 811, often believing their project is too shallow to require it, according to the Common Ground Alliance.
A call to 811 connects callers to New
York’s one-call center, which gathers information about planned digging projects. Utility companies then send representatives to mark underground lines with flags, paint, or both. Once all utilities confirm their markings, work may proceed with caution.
Digging Safety Tips
■ Underground gas and electric lines exist even on private property and can be damaged easily, leading to injuries, service disruptions, and costly repairs.
■ Call 811 at least two business days before starting any project to determine safe digging areas.
■ Wait for all utility companies to mark lines or confirm no underground facilities exist before beginning work.
■ Always hand dig within two feet of marked lines before using mechanical equipment.
■ If a gas line is damaged or a gas odor is detected, leave the area immediately and call 911.
Calling 811 before digging is not just a precaution — it’s the law. Additional safety information and resources are available at PsegLiNy.com.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Finding common ground in holidays PASSOVER MESSAGE
Passover and Easter are two of the most significant religious celebrations in Judaism and Christianity, each rich in history, tradition, and spiritual meaning. Though they come from different faiths, they share deep thematic similarities, particularly in their messages of renewal, liberation, and faith.
Passover, or Pesach, commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, as recounted in the Book of Exodus. It is a time of remembrance and gratitude, celebrating freedom through rituals such as the Seder meal, eating matzah –dunleavened bread – and retelling the Exodus story.
It is a time of spiritual rebirth, signified by traditions such as sunrise services, the lighting of candles, and sharing joyous feasts. Like Passover, Easter is when families come together, attend church services, gather around meals, and share traditions reinforcing faith and togetherness.
Both holidays occur in the spring, symbolizing nature’s renewal alongside spiritual rebirth. They also emphasize themes of sacrifice—whether in the Israelites’ struggles or Jesus’ crucifixion—and divine intervention, showcasing a God who leads His people to freedom and salvation.
The holiday highlights the power of faith and the importance of passing down traditions and stories to future generations. At the heart of Passover is the gathering of family and community.
The Seder is when multiple generations unite, sharing food, prayers, and songs, reinforcing a strong sense of identity and belonging.
The interactive elements of the Seder, such as the Four Questions asked by the youngest child, emphasize the role of family in teaching and preserving Jewish history.
This family-centered tradition ensures that each generation connects with the story of the Exodus, making it not just a historical event but a lived experience passed down through the ages.
Similarly, Easter, which marks the resurrection of Jesus, is a celebration of renewal, hope, and salvation. Christians observe Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday, reflecting on Jesus’ suffering, death, and ultimate triumph over sin and death.
Passover and Easter also emphasize communal gatherings, storytelling, and rituals that strengthen faith and family bonds. Their beauty lies in their religious significance and their ability to bring people together in joy, remembrance, and hope for a brighter future.
Whether through the Seder meal or Easter Sunday gatherings, these celebrations remind families of their shared history, values, and the enduring power of faith across generations.
Please join us for Yizkor and Passover Services at Congregation B’nai Israel on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Yizkor services are memorial prayers recited on Yom Kippur, Passover, Shavuot, and Shemini Atzeret to honor the memory of deceased loved ones.
These solemn moments provide an opportunity for reflection, remembrance, and reaffirmation of the enduring connection between the living and those who have passed. Wishing everyone a Happy Passover and Easter.
Rabbi Stacy Sokol delivers a holiday message to Freeport.
High schoolers come to New Visions
Second-grade students at New Visions Elementary received a special visit from Freeport High School students, who led an interactive lesson on communities — exploring how they function, their structure, and the role citizens play in their success.
Members of the High School Heroes program stepped into the role of educators, guiding the younger students through discussions on work readiness, the production of goods and services, the flow of money through a community, and the importance of civic engagement.
The hands-on learning experience introduced second graders to different career paths, essential job skills, and basic financial concepts like earning and managing money.
High School Heroes is a business program designed to equip high school students with presentation and communication skills, while also teaching them about commerce and business management.
As the visit concluded, both the high school mentors and the secondgrade students found the experience rewarding. –Mohammad Rafiq
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
US Bank National Association, as Trustee for Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2006-1, Plaintiff AGAINST
Stephen Dedomenico; William Dedomenico; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 25, 2015, and Amended February 23, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 22, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 4 August Lane, Old Westbury, NY 11568. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Old Westbury, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 19 Block D Lot 112. Approximate amount of judgment $928,735.94 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 007547/2012.
Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: March 4, 2025 152320 LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE HOME EQUITY
ASSET TRUST 2007-2 HOME EQUITY PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2, Plaintiff, Against
ANA M. BERNAL CRIOLLO, CARLOS CRIOLLO, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 07/19/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 4/22/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 990 Ardmore Road, Baldwin, New York 11510 And Described As Follows: 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, Nassau County, New York. Section 36 Block 468-03 Lot 30
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $428,345.24 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 2503/2015 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Steven Keats, Esq., Referee.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Dated: 3/3/2025 File Number: 27789 CA 152318
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. Stephen Frommer, Esq., Referee 152261
YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on May 7, 2025, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Nassau County Public Administrator, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Marilyn Klatt, 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 $ 8,701.44 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 1,925.36 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);
(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 152413
COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on April 29, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2 SPORTSMAN AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 62-78-11.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Sale Supreme Court: Nassau County T11 Funding v Nassau Industrial Dry Cleaning Corp. et al. Defts Index 609310/2019. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered December 19, 2022, 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 P.M. premises known as School District 9, Section 54, Block 315 Lot 99, Group Lots 99-100 and Lot 101, Group Lots 101-107,
LEGAL NOTICE SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: Grassi Advisory Group, Inc. New York State Office of the Attorney General Jasper Surety Donald Klatt Terri Willis William Klatt Tamara Stowe 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 Marilyn Klatt, 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 the Nassau County Public Administrator, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501.
3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 40,500.00 as and for legal fees and disbursements, of which $ 5,500.00 has been paid and $ 35,000.00 is unpaid;
4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi Advisory Group, Inc. in the amount of $ 6,800.00 of which $ 800.00 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid;
5. Releasing and discharging the surety;
6. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Marilyn Klatt, decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship;
7. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper. Dated, Attested, and Sealed, March 17, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CITIGROUP
MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2007-WFHE3, ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-WFHE3, -againstNELSON BONILLA, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on November 9, 2016, wherein U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CITIGROUP
MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2007-WFHE3, ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH
CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-WFHE3 is the Plaintiff and NELSON BONILLA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 017757/2011. Scott H. Siller, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 152427
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. JACOB POST INC., et al, Defts. Index #609725/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Feb. 27, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 29, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 62, Block 92, Lot(s) 328-300, 461. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held “rain or shine.” GEORGIA PAPAZIS, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021. #102171 152399
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP, Plaintiff -against- FEDIE R. REDD, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant
to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated January 25, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at the corner formed by the intersection of the Southerly side of Cedar St. with the Easterly side of Westside Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 50 feet by 100 feet by 50 feet. Section: 62 Block: 149 Lot: 452 Said premises known as 173 CEDAR STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520
Approximate amount of lien $549,313.36 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 007276/2013.
JEFFREY TOBACK, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 8150.324 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 152367
LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff - against - ARMANDO VENTURA A/K/A ARMANDO A. VENTURA, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on September 30, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 24th day
of April, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Premises known as 67 Mount Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. (Section: 55, Block: 233, Lots: 209 and 210) Approximate amount of lien $778,953.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 608163/2019. John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: January 21, 2025
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 152369
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice hereby given that a license, application ID NA-0111-24-131958 for Beer and Cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell Beer and Cider at retail in a Eating Place under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 241 Nassau Road, Roosevelt, NY County of Nassau for On Premises Consumption. “Restaurante y Bar Mi Canton Corp.” 152737
April 10, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
In the Matter of an Article 10 Neglect Proceeding Nassau County Department of Social Services (Petitioner)File #: Docket #:637794
NN-00640-25
Miya Murphy (Respondent)
Mariah S. Murphy (DOB: 01/16/2025) SUMMONSPUBLICATION (IN PERSON)
To:Miya Murphy 28 Conlon Road Roosevelt, NY 11575
A petition under Article 10 of the Family Court Act has been filed with this Court requesting the following reliefs:
Pre-Petition Application and Neglect. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear IN PERSON before this Court on:
Date/Time/Part:May 8, 2025 at 12:30 PM in Part 2
Purpose:In Person Appearance and Conference
Presiding: Hon. Robin M. Kent
Location: Courthouse, 1200 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590
Floor: 3
Room: 303
to answer the attached petition and to be dealt with in accordance with the Family Court Act. Please bring this notice with you and check in with the Court Officer in the Part.
Be sure to arrive at the courthouse prior to the time listed above. Do not be late as there is a limited window of time for your case to be heard.
If you fail to appear as directed, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Dated: March 11, 2025
John Aiken, Chief Clerk TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT:
The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Robin M. Kent of the Family Court, Nassau County, dated and filed with the petition and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of the Family Court, Nassau County. 152739
LEGAL NOTICE
FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
In the Matter of an Article 10 Neglect Proceeding
Nassau County Department of Social Services (Petitioner)File #: Docket #:603405
NN-00767-25
Miya M. Murphy (Respondent)
Malachi T. Murphy (DOB: 12/01/2016) SUMMONSPUBLICATION (IN PERSON)
To:Miya M. Murphy 28 Conlon Road Roosevelt, NY 11575
A petition under Article 10 of the Family Court Act has been filed with this Court requesting the following reliefs: Neglect.
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear IN PERSON before this Court on:
Date/Time/Part:May 8, 2025 at 12:30 PM in Part 2
Purpose: In Person Appearance and Conference
Presiding: Hon. Robin M. Kent
Location: Courthouse, 1200 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590 Floor: 3 Room: 303 to answer the attached petition and to be dealt with in accordance with the Family Court Act. Please bring this notice with you and check in with the Court Officer in the Part. Be sure to arrive at the courthouse prior to the time listed above.
Do not be late as there is a limited window of time for your case to be heard.
If you fail to appear as directed, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Dated: March 11, 2025
John Aiken, Chief Clerk TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT:
The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Robin M. Kent of the Family Court, Nassau County, dated and filed with the petition and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of the Family Court, Nassau County. 152741
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING FREEPORT UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Nassau County, N. Y.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Freeport Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York, shall conduct its Annual Budget Vote and Trustees Election on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The vote will be by voting machines at the designated polling places set forth below, between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. (local time).
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the following matters will be submitted to the registered voters of the Freeport School District:
(1) To vote on the annual school budget as set forth in Proposition No. 1 below:
Proposition No. 1
SCHOOL BUDGET
RESOLVED that the Annual School Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the School Year 2025-2026.
(2) To vote on the annual library budget as set forth in Proposition No. 2 below:
Proposition No. 2
FREEPORT MEMORIAL
LIBRARY BUDGET
RESOLVED, that the Freeport Memorial Library Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the Freeport Memorial Library for the year 2025-2026.
(3) To vote on the expenditure of funds from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16, 2017, as set forth in Proposition No. 3 below:
PROPOSITION #3
Capital Reserve Fund Proposition SHALL the Board of Education of the Freeport Union Free School District be authorized to expend: $2,500,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16th, 2017 for the purpose of performing the following projects:
Classroom Ceiling Tiles, Flooring & Lighting ReplacementsDistrictwide; Bathroom RenovationsDistrictwide. All of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.
(4) The election of two (2) School Trustee of the Board of Education. The term shall begin July 1, 2025 and end June 30, 2028.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board of Registration shall be open, in accordance with the Laws of the State of New York, every school day in the Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, between the hours of 8:30 o’clock a.m. and 5:00 o’clock p.m. (local time) until Thursday, May 15, 2025, for the Annual Budget Vote and Election to be held on May 20, 2025. In addition, the Board of Registration will be open Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:00 o’clock p.m. until 8:00 o’clock p.m. for residents to register to vote for the Annual Budget and Trustee election to be held on May 20, 2025. Any person who is not registered with the School District or who is not registered in the General Election or who has not voted at any annual or special district meeting or election held within the last four calendar years (2020-2024) must register to vote on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The voting registers will be open to inspection by any qualified voter on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. from May 15, 2025 to May 19, 2025, excluding Sunday, May 18, 2025, and between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. noon on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk; and at each polling place on election day. Absentee and early mail ballots will be available for the election of School Board Members and the Budget Vote. Applications for absentee and early mail ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk at the Freeport Public School Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, in
Freeport, NY 11520.
Applications for absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. Absentee and early mail ballots will be accepted in the Office of the Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on the day of the vote; any ballot received after that time will not be counted.
A listing of all people to whom absentee and early mail ballots were issued will be available in the District Clerk’s Office during regular office hours until the day before the vote.
Candidates for the Office of School Board Trustee must be nominated by a petition signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District. The petition shall state name and residence of the candidate and shall state the name and residence of each signer. Candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be considered elected to their respective offices. Where terms are of different length, the candidate receiving the highest vote shall be elected to the longest term. However, a nomination may be rejected by the Board of Education if the candidate is ineligible for the office or declares his unwillingness to serve. Petitions shall be filed between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. no later than Monday, April 21, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk.
A statement of the amount of money which will be required for the School Year 2025-2026 will be available to the taxpayers at any of the School District buildings between 8:00
A.M. and 4:00 P.M. not later than fourteen (14) days before the vote, excepting Saturdays and Sundays or holidays, and at such annual election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part, and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a lottery shall take place on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. for the purpose of determining candidate placement on the ballot should additional candidates file nominating petitions.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a budget hearing will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:30 P.M. in the Caroline G. Atkinson School for the purpose of discussing the expenditures of funds and budgeting thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a proposition in writing by petition of least forty-one (41) signatures of qualified voters of the District is required to place a proposition on the ballot. The petition must be filed in the Office of the District Clerk on or before 5:00 P.M. (local time) Monday, April 21, 2025. Petitions for propositions which are required by law to be included in the notice of the annual meeting must be submitted no later than 5:00 P.M. on or before Friday, March 21, 2025. The Board of Education reserves the right to edit or amend any proposition without changing the intent thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in
their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 25, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 P.M. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election shall be held in accordance with the Rules for the Election of School Board Members adopted by the Board of Education.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR VOTING
1. A person shall be a citizen of the United States.
2. Eighteen or more years of age.
3. A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more preceding the election at which he or she offers to vote.
4. Must be registered to vote.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the school election districts within the school district are as follows:
DISTRICT N-l
The Atkinson School Voting District is contained in the area, which is west of North Main Street, south of the northerly School District Boundary Line, and east of Milburn Creek, and north of the Long Island Railroad.
DISTRICT N-2
The Columbus Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is north of the Long Island Railroad, east of North Main Street, south of the most northerly District boundary line, and west of the Meadowbrook Parkway.
DISTRICT S-3
The Bayview Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way and west of the Eastern boundary line which runs south down South Long Beach Avenue to the southern property lines of the properties on the south side of Smith Street, then west along said property lines to the easterly property lines of the properties fronting on Bayview Avenue, thence proceeding south along said property lines to the easterly property lines on Branch Avenue and then southerly along the eastern boundary lines of said properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue to the northern property lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis Street, thence easterly along said boundary to Randall Bay. The southern boundary is the Village Line and the western boundary is the Village Line.
DISTRICT S-4
The Archer Street School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at the southerly side of the Long Island Railroad right of way where same intersects with the westerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence running easterly along said right of way to the westerly boundary lines or properties fronting on the west side of Henry Street; thence southeasterly along said boundary lines to the intersection with South Main Street; thence southerly along the west side of South Main Street to the intersection with Mill Road; thence easterly along the south side of Mill Road to the intersection of Mill Road and Freeport Creek; thence southerly along Freeport Creek to the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of East Bedell Street; thence easterly along said property lines to the Village Line also known as Freeport Creek; thence southerly along said line to the most southerly Village Line; thence westerly along said Village Line to Hudson Bay; thence north and northwesterly along Woodcleft Basin to Sportsman’s Channel;
Public Notices
thence north along said Channel and its extension to the center line of Atlantic Avenue; thence westerly along said center line of Atlantic Avenue to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the southerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the south side of Smith Street; thence easterly along said boundary lines of properties fronting on the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
DISTRICT S-5
The Giblyn School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at a point where the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on Bayview Avenue intersects the center line of Atlantic Avenue running thence easterly along said center line to the western boundary line of properties fronting on the west side of Sportsman’s Avenue; thence southerly along said lines to the Sportsman’s Channel; thence southerly along said Channel to the Woodcleft Basin; thence southeasterly along said basin to easterly boundary of Village Line running along Hudson Bay; thence southerly along said boundary line to the southerly boundary of the Village Line also known as Little Swift Creek; thence westerly along said Village Line to a point where same intersects Randall Bay; thence northerly along said Bay to the intersection of the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis Street; thence westerly along said boundary line to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the east boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
DISTRICT S6
The Cleveland Avenue School Voting District (now based at the
Albany Avenue Field House, 55 Albany Avenue) is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way, east of the eastern boundary of District S-4, with the eastern and southern boundary being the village boundaries.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION Sunday F. Coward Benjamin Roberts President District Clerk 152708
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232 Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF HENRY SMITH, DECEASED, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report, Amend the Caption, and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 30, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 17 Wilson Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575. 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 55, Block 336 and Lots 41-44. Approximate amount of judgment is $511,150.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #018056/2011.
George Peter Esernio, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152733
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. KETEL CESAR, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF GINETTE JOUBERT A/K/A GINETTE JEAN LOUIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 15, 2024 and a Substitute Referee Order duly entered December 27, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 49 Meyer Street, Roosevelt, NY 11575. 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 55, Block 556 and Lot 12. Approximate amount of judgment is $327,508.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611775/2022. Cash will not be accepted. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152735
LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NEW YORK
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on April 7, 2025 the Board of Trustees of the Village of Freeport, in the County of Nassau, New York, adopted a resolution amending the bond resolution adopted by said Board of Trustees on October 3, 2022, which bond resolution, as amended, is entitled: “Bond Resolution of the Village of Freeport, New York, adopted October 3, 2022 and amended April 7, 2025,
authorizing the construction of various sewer improvements in the Village, stating the estimated maximum cost thereof is $787,500, appropriating said amount for such purpose, and authorizing the issuance of bonds in the principal amount of $787,500 to finance said appropriation,” an abstract of such bond resolution, concisely stating the purpose and effect thereof, being as follows:
FIRST: AUTHORIZING said Village to construct various sewer improvements in the Village; STATING the estimated maximum cost thereof, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and the financing thereof, is $787,500;
APPROPRIATING said amount for such purpose; STATING the plan of financing includes the issuance of bonds or notes of the Village in the principal amount of not to exceed $787,500 to finance said appropriation, and the levy of a tax upon all the taxable real property within the Village to pay the principal of said bonds and interest thereon;
SECOND: AUTHORIZING the issuance of not to exceed $787,500 bonds of the Village pursuant to the Local Finance Law of the State of New York (the “Law”) to finance said appropriation;
THIRD: DETERMINING and STATING the period of probable usefulness applicable to the purpose for which said bonds are authorized to be issued is forty (40) years; the temporary use of available funds of the Village, not immediately required for the purpose or purposes for which the same were borrowed, raised or otherwise created, is hereby authorized pursuant to Section 165.10 of the Law, for the capital purposes described in this resolution and the proceeds of said bonds and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation thereof may be applied to reimburse the Village for expenditures made after the effective date of this bond resolution for the purpose for which said bonds are authorized;
and the proposed maturity of said bonds will exceed five (5) years;
FOURTH: DETERMINING that said bonds and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of said bonds and the renewals of said bond anticipation notes shall be general obligations of the Village; and PLEDGING to their payment the faith and credit of the Village;
FIFTH: DELEGATING to the Village Treasurer the powers and duties as to the issuance of said bonds, and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of said bonds, or the renewals thereof; and
SIXTH: DETERMINING that the bond resolution is subject to a permissive referendum.
DATED: April 7, 2025
Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk 152884
AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE
The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on April 7, 2025, and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Freeport, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this Notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the publication of this Notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.
Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NEW YORK, ADOPTED APRIL 7, 2025, AUTHORIZING THE PAYMENT OF A SETTLED CLAIM, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $131,250, APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE, AND AUTHORIZING THE
ISSUANCE OF BONDS OF SAID VILLAGE IN THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $131,250 TO FINANCE SAID APPROPRIATION
The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the payment of a settled claim. The period of probable usefulness is five (5) years. The amount of obligations to be issued is $131,250.
A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village Clerk, at the Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York. The bond resolution is dated April 7, 2025. 152883
AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD MEETINGAPRIL 22, 2025 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing will be held before the Site Plan Review Board on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 6:45 P.M., in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, on Site Plan applications as they appear on the calendar; public comment invited. The Board will meet at 6:00 P.M. in the Trustees Conference Room to discuss cases not requiring a public hearing; open to the public, no public comment. INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions. SP-3819 - 190 E Sunrise Highway, Section 55/Block H/Lot 55. Manufacturing. Qi Ling Li. Erect 1 ground sign containing 3 panels - first panel 48’’ x 96” x 2”, second panel 24” x 96” x 2” and third panel 24” x 96” x 2”.
SP-3820 - 21 Van Buren Street, Section
62/Block 104/Lot 114. Residence A. ATV Realty Group, LLC. Construct new 2,760 sq. ft. 3-story 1-family dwelling with attached garage.
SP-3821 - 16 Archer Street, Section 62/Block 48/Lot 4. Residence A. Jose Guiterrez. Construct 4,212 sq. ft. wood frame 2-story 1family dwelling. BY ORDER OF THE PLANNING BOARD
Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 152882
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BRIDGEWELL CAPITAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. TANDEM ENTERPRISE LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 319 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 44 and Lot 394. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,198,937.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600164/2022. Oscar Prieto, Esq., Referee Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152838
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET TRUST 2019-GS7, Plaintiff -againstEULALEE PARKER; RAMON PARKER, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 26, 2023 and entered on July 28, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 13, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the southerly side of Morton Avenue, distant 125 feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of Morton Avenue with the easterly side of Brookside Avenue; being a plot 50 feet by 100 feet by 50 feet by 100 feet.
SBL#
0054-00299-00281 Said premises known as 61 MORTON AVE, FREEPORT, NY 11520 Approximate amount of lien $632,558.32 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 608057/2020.
CHESTER H. GREENSPAN, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave, Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 152773
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
April 10, 2025 —
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR MLM 13648 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. PANTHER ENTERPRISES INC., ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 305 Roosevelt Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 152 and Lots 5 & 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $859,190.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 614107/2023.
Peter L. Kramer, Esq., Referee 516-510-4020
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 234193-1 152840
Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE
ASSESSOR’S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL
THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU
HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2025/2026 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2026 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2025/2026 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2024. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals
located in the offices of: DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT
NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING
240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days.
Dated this 1st day of April 2025.
JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 152810
Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF GARAGEPERSON’S LIEN FORCLOSURE IS HEREBY GIVEN:
On April 30, 2025, a Sale will be held at Jaguar Land Rover Freeport located at 146 W Sunrise HWY., Freeport, NY 11520., 5167716600 to sell the following Vehicle to enforce a lien existing under section 184 , 201 and 202 of the lien laws of State of New York against such Vehicle for labor, services, skill, or material expended upon a garageman furnished for such Vehicle at the request of the following designated person, unless such vehicle are redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice.
Eric Lesak and Brooke Kayla Lesak 3494 Clifton Blvd Wantagh NY 11793
Vehicle Description: 2010 Land Rover Range Rover License plate KDS3154., VIN SALFR2BN0AH157754
Lien Amount Due: $4,39.71 152880
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF GARAGEPERSON’S LIEN FORCLOSURE IS HEREBY GIVEN:
On April 30, 2025, a Sale will be held at Jaguar Land Rover Freeport located at 146 W Sunrise HWY., Freeport, NY 11520., 516-771-6600 to sell the following Vehicle to enforce a lien existing under section 184 , 201 and 202 of the lien laws of State of New York against such Vehicle for labor, services, skill, or material expended upon a garageman furnished for such Vehicle at the request of the following designated person, unless such vehicle are
redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice.
Natalie A. Lloyd 11 2nd Ave Westbury, NY 11590
Vehicle Description:
2016 Land Rover Range Rover License plate KZU2660., VIN SALGS2PF3GA298801
Lien Amount Due:
$3,920.74 152878
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, FLAGSTAR BANK, N.A., F/K/A FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, Plaintiff, vs. MIGUEL F. HERNANDEZ, ESTER AMBROSIORUIZ, if living and if he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the 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, though, or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heir-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, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on 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 May 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 96 FLORAL BLVD, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 181, Lot: 107 & 406. Approximate
amount of judgment is $983,321.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 606142/2019.
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.
For Sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
CHRISTINE M. GRILLO, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152818
LEGAL NOTICE
VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NEW YORK
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on April 7, 2025, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Freeport, in the County of Nassau, New York, adopted a bond resolution entitled: “Bond Resolution of the Village of Freeport, New York, adopted April 7, 2025, authorizing the issuance of bonds in a principal amount not to exceed $1,260,000 to finance the construction of various road improvements, stating the estimated maximum cost thereof is $1,260,000 and appropriating said amount for such purpose,” an abstract of such bond resolution, concisely stating the purpose and effect thereof, being as follows:
FIRST: AUTHORIZING the Village of Freeport, New York to issue bonds in a principal amount not to exceed $1,260,000 pursuant to the Local Finance Law of the State of New York, to finance the construction of various road improvements;
SECOND: STATING that the estimated maximum cost thereof, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and the financing thereof, is $1,260,000; appropriating said amount for such purpose; and STATING that the plan of financing includes the issuance of bonds in a principal amount not to exceed $1,260,000 to finance said appropriation, and the levy and collection of taxes on all the taxable real property in the Village to pay
the principal of said bonds and the interest thereon as the same shall become due and payable;
THIRD: DETERMINING and STATING the period of probable usefulness applicable to the purpose for which said bonds are authorized to be issued is fifteen (15) years; the proceeds of said bonds and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation thereof may be applied to reimburse the Village for expenditures made after the effective date of this bond resolution for the purpose for which said bonds are authorized; and the proposed maturity of said bonds will exceed five (5) years;
FOURTH: DETERMINING that said bonds and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of said bonds and the renewals of said bond anticipation notes shall be general obligations of the Village; and PLEDGING to their payment the faith and credit of the Village;
FIFTH: DELEGATING to the Village Treasurer the powers and duties as to the issuance of said bonds, and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of said bonds, or the renewals thereof;
SIXTH: STATING the conditions under which the validity of the bonds and any notes issued in anticipation thereof may be contested: and SEVENTH: DETERMINING that the bond resolution is subject to a permissive referendum.
DATED: April 7, 2025
Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk 152885
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
Freeport Union Free School District 235 N. Ocean Avenue Freeport, New York 11520
The Board of Education of the Freeport Union Free School District (hereinafter “the District”) invites the submission of sealed proposals from reputable and qualified bus transportation companies for furnishing student transportation services for the District for the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 with the option to extend in accordance with applicable law for the following contracts: (1) Home to
School Transportation, including In and Out-ofDistrict Transportation for Public, Private, Parochial Schools and Special Needs Schools and Programs; (2) Athletic Trips; (3) Field Trips; and (4) Summer Transportation.
This Request for Proposals, including forms of proposals, certification, conditions, and specifications may be obtained from the District’s Business Office at 235 N. Ocean, Freeport, New York 11520 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., commencing on April 9, 2025, holidays excluded. Proposers may request specifications for electronic transmission or pickup by appointment via telephone at 516-8675212 or via electronic mail to iogundipe@ freeportschools.org
In all cases, it must be understood that the conditions and specifications set forth in the Request for Proposals issued by the District shall apply. Sealed proposals will be received until April 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the District’s Business Office located at 235 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York 11520. Staff will be available to accept hand delivered sealed proposals on April 30, 2025 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. All proposals received by 11:00 a.m. on April 30, 2025 will be publicly acknowledged at the District’s Purchasing Office on April 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. All interested Proposers may attend the public acknowledgment of proposals. All proposals shall be clearly marked “Pupil Transportation Proposal - Do Not Open Until April 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.”
The Board of Education reserves the right to reject all proposals, waive any informalities in a proposal and to negotiate any portion of a proposal(s).
Questions regarding this Request for Proposals will be accepted by the Purchasing Agent until April 17, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. and answers to all questions requiring a response, as deemed necessary by the District, will be distributed in the form of an addendum to all potential Proposers by April 21, 2025. Please submit your questions in writing via
email to iogundipe@ freeportschools.org with a copy to jreinke@ freeportschools.org
The Board of Education reserves the right to consider experience, service and reputation in the student transportation field, as well as the financial responsibility and specific qualifications set out herein of the prospective Proposer, in considering proposals and awarding the contracts. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in whole or in part, when in its sole discretion it deems that it will serve the best interests of the District, to waive technical defects, irregularities and omissions; and to select in its sole discretion which of two or more identical Proposers shall be awarded the contract. When a board of education of a school district elects to receive proposals submitted in response to a request for proposals, such board of education shall evaluate each proposal from a responding Contractor according to criteria established by the Commissioner of Education, which criteria shall include, at a minimum: (i) the previous experience of the Contractor in transporting pupils, (ii) the name of each transportation company the Contractor has been an owner or a manager, (iii) a description of any safety programs implemented by the Contractor, (iv) a record of accidents in motor vehicles under the control of the Contractor, (v) driving history of employees of the Contractor, (vi) inspection records and model year of the motor vehicles under the control of the Contractor, (vii) maintenance schedules of the motor vehicles under the control of the Contractor, (viii) financial analysis of the Contractor, (ix) documentation of compliance with motor vehicle insurance requirements, and (x) total cost of the proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated and awarded based on the following criteria by the District pursuant to Sections 305 and 3625 of the Education Law and Section 156.12 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.
Category Weight
1 Previous Experience of Contractor in School Transportation 15
2 Names of Previous Transportation Companies where the Contractor has been an Owner or Manager 5
3 Description of Safety Programs Implemented by the Contractor 5
4 Record of Accidents in Vehicles under the control of the Contractor 5
5 Driving History of Employees of the Contractor 10
6 Fleet Inspection Records, Model Year of each of the Vehicles under the Control of the Contractor 10
7 Maintenance Schedules of Vehicles under Control of the Contractor 5
8 Financial Analysis of the Contractor 5
9 Documentation of Compliance with Motor Vehicle Insurance Requirements 5 10 Total Cost of Proposal- Total Cost to Provide the Transportation Services under the contract 35 TOTAL 100 Proposals with a score of less than “75” will not be considered for award by the District. The above-referenced scoring of the criteria will be used for the contract or the term of the contract awarded under this Request for Proposals for transportation services. In the best interest of the District, the Board of Education reserves the right to award each transportation contract for the 2025-2026 school year with the option to extent a period of one (1) year, two (2) years, three (3) years, four (4) years or five (5) years in accordance with applicable law and subject to and conditioned upon the approval of the voters of the Freeport Union Free School District. In the event the voters do not approve a multi-year contract or extension, the District will reserves the right to award a one-year contract or extension, as the case may be.
Notwithstanding the provisions of any general, special, or local law or charter, a board of education or a trustee of a district, pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of Education, may award a contract for the transportation of
Protesters call on Trump to keep hands off
By SCOTT BRINTON & CHRISTINA ARLOTTA Special to the Herald
An estimated 2,400 protesters gathered on the green outside the Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola Saturday afternoon to project a singular message for the Trump administration: “Hands off our democracy!” What precisely the slogan meant depended on with whom you spoke.
Protesters adorned the sidewalks with American flags and “Hands Off!” signs, chanting at passing cars on Old Country Road as they urged President Trump and Elon Musk to rescind funding cuts to the Social Security Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services (which oversees Medicare and Medicaid), cancer research, library services and public education. As well, they called on the administration to reverse its hardline stance on immigration.
Engage Long Island and Show Up Long Island organized the demonstration, one of roughly 1,200 such events that took place in all 50 states on Saturday in what is considered the largest mass protest against the second Trump administration’s policy to date, according to The Associated Press. Other Long Island rallies happened in Patchogue, Port Jefferson Station and Sag Harbor.
“People are fired up and really angry about what’s happening right now,”
Rachel Klein, an Engage Long Island organizer, said.
Marty Salzberg, of Oceanside, stood resolute with the crowd, despite the rain causing the ink on her sign to run. “People care about their rights, and we’re here fighting for them,” Salzberg said.
Many, like 70-year-old Franklin Square resident Susan Kaye, came to voice their anger over recent cuts to the Social Security Administration workforce, which has lost 7,000 employees at the direction of Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. Kaye said she worries Social Security benefits will be reduced, despite assurances from the Trump administration that they will not.
“This is money we worked for,” Kaye said. “I don’t ever get enough to survive for a month. This is money we put into a system. It’s not an entitlement.”
LFRE5-5 0410
Kaye said she works part-time as a cashier at an entertainment concession to supplement her Social Security benefits, which she started receiving at age
Public Notices
pupils involving an annual expenditure in excess of the amount specified for purchase contracts in the bidding requirements of the General Municipal Law in compliance with the competitive bidding law or subsequent to an evaluation of proposals submitted in response to a request for proposals prepared by or for the board of education or trustee of a district.
The Commissioner, in addition to his existing statutory authority to
approve or disapprove transportation contracts, may reject any award of a transportation contract that is based on an evaluation of proposals submitted in response to a request for proposals if he/she finds that (1) the Contractor is not responsive to the request for proposals or (2) the proposal is not in the best interests of the district.
Security in the form of a bond or certified check payable to the Freeport
Union Free School District in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the first year of the contract is required to be submitted with the proposal. A performance and payment bond in a sum of 100% of the annual amount of the contracts will be required as set forth in the Request for Proposals. Proof of the ability to furnish a performance bond in the amount of 100% for each year of the contract must also be submitted
with the proposal.
Dated: April 9, 2025
62. After all bills are paid, she ends each month with less than $100.
Joan Koenig, 66, of Valley Stream, had her adult children in mind while she protested. Koenig has two sons, ages 34 and 32. One is transgender and the other nonbinary, meaning his sexual identity is not exclusively male or female.
“LGBTQ rights are being taken away left and right,” Koenig said.
Suffolk County Republican Chairman Jesse Garcia told Newsday on Friday that the Hands Off! rallies were “the continuation of the far-left Democrats to protest, to yell, to scream, to dance, to sing without offering any solutions.”
The Trump administration, he said, was working to root out “waste, fraud and abuse.”
Engage Long Island organizer Gail Limmer said, “We’re regular, everyday people standing up for our democracy.”
Halle Brenner-Perles, a co-founder of Show Up Long Island, told the crowd through a microphone, “This is a moment in history that requires all people of good conscience to show up for each other. We don’t want to wonder one day where we were and what we were
An estimated 2,400 protesters turned out for a “Hands Off!” protest outside the Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola Saturday. Above, a portion of the crowd.
doing when they came for Social Security and Medicaid and veterans’ services and national parks. We don’t want to wonder when they came for crucial medical research and disease prevention, or our immigrant neighbors or trans kids.”
Mary Anne Trasciatti, of Long Beach, director of labor studies at Hofstra University in Hempstead, followed Harrison. “I’m a mom, I’m a grandma, I’m an educator, I’m an organizer, and I’m a pissed-off Long Islander!” she yelled into the microphone.
“Hands off our jobs!” Trasciatti continued to cheers.
“The U.S. Constitution,” she said, “begins with three words: ‘We the people.’ Well, my friends, we are the people. Government is supposed to work for us, but this government has targeted us, the people, hard-working people, as the enemy.”
Have an opinion on the issues presented in this story? Send letter to jbessen@ liherald.com.
Sisters Joan Koenig, of Valley Stream, and Jane Colgan, of Lynbrook, protesting for LGBTQ rights.
Photos courtesy Scott Brinton
A steady rain didn’t dampen the demonstrators’ spirit to support their issues.
Waterfront Beauty
Is my neighbor’s menagerie legal?
Q. My neighbor loves animals, so much that they have constructed little houses for feral cats and stray dogs. Although I haven’t said anything because we have a tall fence, and I don’t have to look at the menagerie of wildlife — including many ducks, squirrels and raccoons that also eat the food scraps my neighbor puts out — I wonder if this is allowed, and now that they’re starting to build very large bird “hotels” that I can see, I’m thinking this is really getting to be too much. Do they need approval to attract all of these animals, a permit or something?
A. There are restrictions, such as section 152-8 of Town of Hempstead code, prohibiting dogs at large. You can check your municipality code regulations, online, by typing in the name of your municipality followed by “ecode360.” Many communities restrict the number of pets and the containment of pets, and have a restriction that pets can’t be constrained for more than two hours to a stationary object, like a post.
Stray dogs and cats are prohibited, even though many people take care of them. I wrote about this 25 years ago, and received hate mail for my insensitivity to these cats and dogs, even though I was quoting the ordinances, in addition to writing about how to keep strays from wandering into your yard. If the strays become a problem for you, there are regulations that your neighbor may be subject to.
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Birdhouses seem fairly innocent, and unless they’re built to an abundant size, like the “hotel” you describe, there are no limits. When there are a number of birdhouses, or they become large enough to fall under the regulation of treehouses and sheds, the regulations become relevant, and the construction of these “accessory structures” falls under the zoning codes. I’ve seen birdhouses with 25 units in them, which is large enough to make it necessary to regulate. It brings new meaning to Airbnb. I’m not sure if the local governments that placed prohibitions on renting out homes to transients also included the bird population, since most birds have no place to carry cash or a credit card, but it may be worth looking into in your spare time.
A call to either your local building inspector or to animal and wildlife control centers can confirm the handling of the animals, and whether your neighbor is creating a nuisance. The biggest concern may be health considerations, since some species may carry diseases that can be harmful to other species or to you. For example, raccoons, cats and squirrels are known to carry rabies, and an even more dangerous disease called toxoplasmosis. They endanger dogs in particularly, since these diseases cause ailments that can cripple or destroy their immune systems. Cats are also in danger, and the droppings from each of these animals may also cause sickness in humans, but to a lesser degree. You are not wrong to be concerned. Good luck!
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opinions Democrats put Nassau at risk by not passing Capital Plan
nassau County has enjoyed a lot of success during my time as county executive. Our residents have benefited from a notax-increase budget for three years straight, and I plan to deliver them a fourth. My administration cut $150 million in taxes planned by the previous administration. I hired over 300 new police and correctional officers to protect our streets. And the county was named the most desirable place to live in all of New York state by Niche magazine.
But our county now faces a crisis that threatens to halt our growth and impede our progress. I am deeply disappointed and frustrated that the 2025 Capital Plan was not passed by the County Legislature. The plan, which is vital for the continued development and safety of all of Nassau, has been blocked by Democratic legislators who have refused to give it their bipartisan support. It is disturbing to witness such a politically motivated decision when it directly jeopardizes the welfare of our residents.
The implications of not passing the Capital Plan extend far beyond politics. I am very concerned about delaying funding for important public-safety ini-
tiatives. I am proud to say that Nassau County holds the title as the safest county in America, but we risk throwing that away and undermining the systems designed to protect our families and neighborhoods without the funding and resources guaranteed by the plan.
Under the negotiated proposal blocked by Democratic legislators, the plan would provide tens of millions of dollars in funding to secure essential tools for police officers who put their lives on the line to protect us. Those investments include:
■ $1.14 million for bulletproof vests
■ $1.1 million for tasers
■ $105,000 for upgraded firearms
Fals vehicle.
We also negotiated a six-figure investment in the Fire Service Academy Master Plan so that our volunteer firefighters get the best training available. Setting back that training by not passing the Capital Plan would be an egregious mistake by our Democratic legislators.
ailing to secure
funding
will
this
hurt communities across the county.
■ $1.5 million for body cameras.
Support for our firefighters and emergency responders is also jeopardized while the Capital Plan stalls in the Legislature. For 2025 alone, we have millions of dollars budgeted for key items that include:
■ $3 million for new ambulances
■ $550,000 for new firefighting equipment and high-axle vehicles to save residents during floods
■ $500,000 to upgrade fire department communications system
■ $600,000 for a new hazardous-materi-
iOn top of spending on public safety, the Capital Plan also includes important initiatives aimed at improving the county’s infrastructure, including improvements that will improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. The hamlet of Elmont, for example, was scheduled to receive $2.7 million in traffic and pedestrian safety improvements that are now being blocked.
Another $1.5 million in similar improvements was slated for the Village of Lynbrook, at the five-way intersection at Hempstead Avenue.
Blocked.
We planned to spend $250,000 on traffic safety and pedestrian improvements for Merrick Road in Freeport.
Blocked.
You can see just how quickly the money adds up. Failing to secure this funding will hurt communities across the county if we don’t act now. We cannot afford indecision or crass political posturing when our taxpayers are relying on us. I am calling on our Democrat-
ic legislators to put aside politics and prioritize the well-being of Nassau County residents by passing the Capital Plan. It is time to focus on what truly matters — the safety and quality of life of our citizens.
I also urge county residents to make their voices heard. Contact your legislators, express your concerns, and advocate for the passage of the Capital Plan. Here is the contact information for the Democratic legislators who blocked the plan and put you at risk.
Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton
Phone: (516) 571-6211
Email: dderiggiwhitton@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Scott Davis
Phone: (516) 571-6201
Email: SDavis@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Olena Nicks
Phone: (516) 571-6202
Email: onicks@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Carrie Solages
Phone: (516) 571-6203
Email: csolages@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Seth Koslow Phone: (516) 571-6205
Email: skoslow@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Debra Mulé Phone: (516) 571-6206
Email: dmule@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Arnold Drucker Phone: (516) 571-6216
Email: adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov
Bruce Blakeman is Nassau County executive.
Why I still cheer like a kid for my teams
am 64 years old. I have lived a full life, raised a family, built a career and seen the world change in ways I never imagined. But when one of my favorite sports teams takes the field, I’m still a 12-year-old boy, heart pounding, stomach twisting, living and dying with every play or atbat.
A great touchdown catch or a clutch base hit still sends me into wild fist pumping. A botched play or a baffling coaching decision has me pacing the room, muttering in disbelief.
The baseball season just started, and I moaned about the Mets’ slow start in a sports text thread. One of my friends texted, “They’ve faced strong pitching.” I responded, “Aren’t they supposed to have a strong lineup and that Soto guy?” The same friend wrote: “It’s one week, calm down.”
When you’re a fan, calm isn’t your default state of mind. This isn’t a hobby — it’s a lifelong relationship. And like any deep, long-term commitment, it started early.
I still remember my first baseball game. I was 7, holding my father’s hand as we made our way through the crowded concourse of Yankee Stadium. Though I was a Mets fan, we went with family friends. The air smelled of hot dogs, beer and cigars.
s ports are a connection — to my childhood, to my dad, to my friends.
Two years later, I went to my first football game, also in Yankee Stadium. I’m a Giants fan, and on that October Sunday my dad and I watched Big Blue defeat the then St. Louis Cardinals. Sitting around us were football fans who held transistor radios to their ears so they’d know what penalty had been called and exactly where the ball was on the field. At the time, no planet-sized TV screen showed the previous play seconds after it ended.
Sports fandom isn’t just about watching games — it’s about the rituals, the
superstitions, the little things we do that make us feel like we’re part of something bigger. For me, it started with where I sat to watch at home. Every time my team was in the playoffs, I had to be in the same spot on the couch. Not just the same couch — the same spot on that couch.
Before the most recent two Super Bowls that the Giants played in (and won), I had to watch the movie “Friday Night Lights” two hours before game time. Was there any logical reason to believe that watching a film about high school football would influence the outcome of a Super Bowl? Of course not. But did I dare test my illogical theory by not watching it? Absolutely not. If you ask any true sports fan why they put themselves through the emotional rollercoaster of fandom, they’ll tell you the highs are worth the lows. And it’s true — when my team wins, when they pull off an improbable comeback or dominate their opponent, it’s
pure joy. The kind of joy that makes you jump up and down like a kid on his birthday.
But the lows? Oh, the lows hurt. A blown lead, a boneheaded play that costs the game, a gut-wrenching loss — they stay with you. You replay them in your head and commiserate about them with friends.
People who don’t follow sports don’t get it. They ask why I let a game played by people I’ve never met affect me so deeply. Or they ask whether I have a big bet on the game.
But it’s not just a game. It’s a connection — to my childhood, to my father, who took me to those first games, to my friends who have shared in the victories and defeats. It’s a constant in a world that constantly changes.
At 64, I’m not the same person I was at 12. But when my team takes the field, that kid inside me comes roaring back across the decades, full of hope, excitement and the unshakable belief that this time, maybe this time, we’ll win it all.
Jeffrey Bessen is the managing editor of Herald Community Media.
JEFFREY BEssEn
opinions
We must address Long Island’s road safety crisis
The sudden rise in deadly accidents on Long Island’s streets and highways is deeply alarming, and demands actions. Every seven minutes, a crash causing death, injury or significant property damage occurs on our roads. And our region currently leads the state in traffic fatalities: One in five deaths resulting from car crashes in New York happens on Long Island. The failure to secure our roads has led to thousands of lives being cut short, families tragically ripped apart and a terrible void left in too many of our communities.
I wrote to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, calling for immediate action to keep Long Islanders safe. In addition to a federal investigation into the surge of fatal crashes, I urged Duffy and the Department of Transportation to issue specific recommendations to
Congress on additional funding or authority that the department needs to improve our roadways and increase safety for drivers and pedestrians.
I’m fighting for a comprehensive roadway safety strategy to encourage safer driving and create safer roads. This means giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources to police aggressive and unsafe driving, investing in infrastructure that puts safety first and keeping impaired drivers off our roads.
We’ve lost far too many community members to fatal traffic accidents.
Unsafe driving has devastating consequences that we can and must prevent. Every day, our nation’s law enforcement officers work to prevent serious accidents on our roads. But strained budgets and workforce reductions have harmed their ability to conduct traffic stops and other forms of high-visibility traffic enforcement. Studies show that increasing high-visibility enforcement deters drivers from making reckless decisions that endanger others and makes our streets safer for all. Additionally, I’m calling for infra-
structure investments that prioritize safety, not speed. Area residents have long voiced safety concerns about the Southern State Parkway, Sunrise Highway and other routes, which account for a disproportionate share of roadway injuries and fatalities on Long Island. We should use proven safety countermeasures to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe on our roads, prevent roadway departures, and make intersections less deadly.
I’ll continue to advocate for these common-sense improvements. In Congress, I’m drafting legislation that incentivizes states and localities to build roundabouts, which make intersections safer. By introducing these measures into our infrastructure planning, we can significantly reduce roadway fatalities and injuries.
We must also take action to keep impaired drivers off the roads. Many road safety groups have endorsed lowering our drunken-driving limit to a blood alcohol content of .05 percent. There’s strong evidence that lowering this limit
reduces the number of crashes and saves lives: After Utah lowered its drunken-driving limit to .05 percent in 2018, fatal car crashes dropped by nearly 20 percent over the next calendar year. I support the push at the state level to bring this limit to New York, and I’m exploring federal options to make this the law of the land across the U.S.
We’ve lost far too many community members to fatal traffic accidents. It’s time for local, state and federal authorities to come together to improve our roadways and increase safety for drivers and pedestrians.
I’m proud to represent Long Island on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has authority over the nation’s highways and bridges. As Congress considers a new surface transit reauthorization bill this year, the committee will be a key player in negotiating this bill. I’ll continue to use my seat on T&I to advocate for our communities, make smart infrastructure investments and push for policies that keep drivers, passengers and pedestrians safe.
Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
A holiday homily: the family that ate its pets
Thus it came to pass, in the Land of Brooklyn, that Morris Brownstein knew Anna Brownstein, his second cousin, and they begat Hilda, Murray, Pearl and Zelda. Pearl, third in the family order, was my mother, and the only one who seemed to have entirely escaped the questionable legacy of having parents who were also blood relatives.
In the warm bosom of my mother’s nuclear family, accent on nuclear, Passover was a sacred time. Sacred not in a religious way, but in a culinary way. Grandma Annie and Grandpa Morris spared no effort in bringing to their four children an authentic holiday experience.
Perhaps the most cherished Brownstein family tradition was dining on homemade gefilte fish for the holiday. Let me digress. Gefilte fish (from the Yiddish word for “stuffed”) is an acquired taste. A cement-colored composite of various scaled fish, such as carp and pike and whitefish, mixed with
ground vegetables and matzo meal, it tastes like a fishy matzo ball. People eat it cold, with mouth-scorching horseradish to kill the taste.
When I say it is an acquired taste, I mean you had to be there at the beginning. Let’s see, it’s 5785 on the Hebrew calendar, so if you started eating gefilte fish two or three thousand years ago, you probably look forward to having it on the Seder table this year. You can’t just munch gefilte with no prior experience.
himself too thin.
Anyway, keeping the carp in the tub wasn’t without consequences for the Family Brownstein. First, since the carp was in the tub for some time, and there was only one bathtub, well, draw your own conclusions.
M y mother always wanted a kitten or a puppy, but learned to bond with carp.
For her gefilte fish, Grandma Annie believed in going to the source, so she would buy a large, live carp and keep it in the bathtub for a week or two until it was time to ease it from its comfortable aquatic home into a grinder.
This was fish farming in its most primitive form. The business possibilities were not lost on young Murray, who was blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit. When he was 19, he considered buying up tens of thousands of bathtubs to raise carp. Unfortunately, at the time all his funds were tied up in a machine that made shoes out of sweet potatoes, and he didn’t want to spread
The second consequence of growing their own, so to speak, was that my mother, the most tenderhearted of the lot, immediately bonded with the carp. She had always longed for a kitten or a puppy, but her parents weren’t about to indulge her, so once a year she had what you might call a transitory experience in nurturing an animal. Granted, a carp isn’t much of a pet, but young Pearl had little else to call her own.
This was not what you would call a psychologically enlightened family. Since “Sesame Street” had not yet been created, Grandma would entertain her kids by taking them to the Canarsie slaughterhouse, where they would watch the chickens being killed. You can see why they didn’t worry much about young Pearl playing with the carp in the tub.
When the day came, a few days before Passover, Grandma was the designated
executioner. This was an interesting division of labor, since Grandpa Morris displayed distinct homicidal potential, having once chased a woman around a butcher shop with a knife after she insulted President Roosevelt. He was also enlisted in a civilian patrol, looking for submarines in Brooklyn, when he fell into a sidewalk hole and wasn’t found for days. But that’s another story.
Anyway, Grandma Annie, ignoring all pleas for clemency for the fish, would drain the tub and dispatch the carp with her cleaver. A day later, they set a beautiful table, and after a few prayers, devoured the fish, which lived on in its new incarnation — homemade gefilte fish swimming in its own aspic.
For dessert, Grandma made what came to be known as the Cake of Affliction, a 12-egg, foot-high sponge cake that, year after year, stuck to the pan, fell like a pancake instead of rising like a soufflé and broke our hearts.
Times pass, and so do people. Rituals change. This Passover, my husband is the only one at the table who will eat gefilte fish. The Cake of Affliction isn’t on the menu. At today’s egg prices, the family sponge cake has become a highrisk investment.
as the winter chill fades and the warmth of spring sets in, April presents us with the perfect opportunity to step out of our homes and into our communities. It is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the vital contributions of volunteers and encourage others to take part in acts of service. With the season’s longer days, there’s no better moment to embrace the spirit of giving, and making a difference.
Volunteering is more than just a noble act — it’s a powerful way to foster change, make personal connections and enhance our well-being. Whether you’re helping clean up a local park, mentoring a young student or lending a hand at a food bank, your contributions have a lasting impact. This month, let’s not only celebrate those who dedicate their time to service, but also join them in strengthening our communities.
National Volunteer Month highlights the invaluable role that volunteers play in shaping society. The best, most selfless volunteering isn’t confined to a single day or week; it’s an ongoing effort that promotes social responsibility, empathy and collective progress.
It also benefits the volunteer. Studies show that devoting time to helping others can reduce stress, combat loneliness and engender a sense of purpose. It helps people acquire new skills and build professional as well as social networks, and often opens doors to new career opportunities.
One of the best aspects of volunteering is its flexibility — there’s something for everyone. Whether you have a few hours to spare each month or can commit to a regular schedule, there are countless ways to contribute. Here are just a few examples:
■ Community cleanups: Help beautify
letters
Thanks for a young woman’s perspective
To the Editor:
Great places to lend a hand
American Red Cross, Long Island Chapter
195 Willis Ave. Mineola (516) 747-3500
RedCross.org/local/new-york
Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center
100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove (516) 571-8040
hmtcli.org
Island Harvest 126 Spagnoli Road, Melville (516) 294-8528 (631) 873-4775
IslandHarvest.org
Last Hope Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh (631) 425-1884
LastHopeAnimalRescue.org
Long Island Cares 10 Davids Drive, Hauppauge (631) 582-3663 LiCares.org
United Way of Long Island 819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park (631) 940-3700 UnitedWayLi.org
your local parks, streets and other community spaces by picking up litter, powerwashing sidewalks or planting flowers.
■ Animal welfare: Volunteer at an animal shelter or foster a rescue pet. The need for volunteers at these facilities has
I very much appreciated Jordan Vallone’s recent op-ed, “Some thoughts on books, privilege and girlhood.” As a lifelong reader, I think life is so much more enjoyable having a good book to read. Books are, in many ways, our teachers. Vallone’s emphasis on the importance of books for young women dealing with this complex and stressful world is so relevant. As I look back on my teaching career, I think we should have had more literature from a woman’s point of view, focusing on the situations and problems they had to face.
And thanks to Jordan for her book suggestions. I feel I should read some literature from the perspective of young
never been greater.
■ Educational support: Tutor a student, chaperone a school field trip or help out in your local library.
■ Food assistance: Work at a food pantry or take part in a meal delivery program. Lots of community members lend a hand during the holiday season, but here, too, volunteers can find plenty to do all year round.
■ Health care and support services: Visit a nursing home, assist hospital staff, or support a mental health initiative.
■ Environmental advocacy: Take part in a tree-planting effort, a recycling program or a sustainability project.
April is also Global Volunteer Month, celebrating the many ways people and organizations support their neighbors and strengthen their communities around the world. Volunteer Recognition Day, April 20, will kick off National Volunteer Week, April 20-26, a weeklong celebration of the efforts of volunteers. There are numerous opportunities this month to take part in events, campaigns and initiatives that need and will welcome your help. It’s a time to take action, and inspire others to do the same. And by getting children and young adults involved, we can help instill a lifelong commitment to service and civic responsibility. Whether through school programs or community projects, we can encourage the next generation to embrace the values of kindness, empathy, and community involvement.
If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, let the month that symbolizes renewal and growth be the time you take that first step. Whether you join a oneday event or dedicate a few hours a week, your contribution matters. Step outside, lend a hand and experience the joy of making a difference.
opinions Standing up for our first responders
nassau County’s fiscal year 2025 capital infrastructure plan is being held up by County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman’s refusal to negotiate with the Democratic minority on grants for important community projects and funding for first responders in the communities we represent.
Since the beginning of 2024, Blakeman and his administration have inexplicably blocked more than $1 million in funding for first responders in Democratic districts — essential, life-saving resources for our firefighters, EMS and local police. These grant requests include essential items such as turnout gear to protect firefighters from flames; oxygen tanks to help first responders breathe in dangerous conditions; upgrades to communication equipment for small village police departments; and CPR devices that improve survival rates for heart attack victims. The list goes on — and within Legislative District 6, this includes nearly $170,000 for the Baldwin Fire Department to apply toward the
purchase of a new bucket truck.
Meanwhile, during the same time period, the county executive has signed off on 32 projects and over $2.5 million for Republican-backed projects, which include proposals similar to the ones Democrats have put forward for their first responders and communities. Thirty-two projects for Republicans, none for Democrats.
On March 24, the Democratic minority drew a line in the sand.
Last month, the Legislature’s Democratic minority drew a line in the sand.
That day, the Blakeman administration came to the Legislature seeking authorization to borrow another $428 million to finance capital projects — even though the administration still has $2.1 billion in untapped bond authorization at its fingertips, as confirmed in the official statement the county filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Under the County Charter, bond authorizations require a 13-vote supermajority to pass, and the administration needs Democratic support to achieve that threshold. Last September, in good faith, the seven Democratic legislators agreed to bond $131 million for countywide capital projects and public safety initiatives. Since then, Blakeman
Letters
people growing up in 2025.
More power to her pride in being a woman, her seeing the importance of literature for young women and her having the talent to bring attention to women’s stories that deserve to be told and heard.
JIM HAwkINS Baldwin
Why so much opposition to the president?
To the Editor:
Spreading propaganda is an evil tool used to create anger, hysteria, rage and jealousy among unthinking people. This method was successfully used in Nazi Germany in the 1930s. It encouraged book burning and k ristallnacht. It appears very similar to Tesla burning and mob protesting against Jewish students at Columbia University. w hen children are young, they are taught to obey their parents, because they are the adults. In a mob mentality, people behave very similar to children, because they are also told what to do, and encouraged to engage in destructive, harmful, irrational behavior. w hen those who attack our American citizens are released and defended by judges, whose civil rights are violated? Can judges overrule the president of the United States?
has still not processed a single community grant requested by a Democratic member for our first responders. This outcome, and the clear political bias that he and his administration are demonstrating through their handling of first responder grants, show us that we cannot trust him to uphold his commitments to Democratic districts and deliver resources to the communities of Nassau’s 19 legislative districts fairly — even if we authorize him to borrow funds.
Before providing our support for another $428 million in borrowing, we asked Blakeman — at his suggestion — to take the unprecedented step of drafting an agreement that would facilitate the release of the $1 million-plus in withheld first responder funding within three months, and to provide regular, transparent updates tracking capital project progress in all 19 districts. He refused, and rather than meeting with our caucus to finalize the capital plan, he has chosen to lash out, and attack us for standing up for our first responders — even dismissing our pursuit of potentially life-saving resources for our firefighters, EMS and local police as “pet projects.”
Sir, were these same proposals pet projects when you signed off on them in districts represented by our Republican colleagues?
Moreover, Blakeman is continuing to claim falsely that, by strategically using the leverage afforded us under the County Charter to demand fairness for our first responders, we are somehow jeopardizing access to resources for a wide swath of essential county services. At a time when the county executive has over $2.1 billion in untapped bond authorizations to utilize, it is clear that he would rather mislead the public to score political points than do his job.
Let me be clear: My colleagues in the Democratic minority and I are ready to vote for capital plan borrowing — but Blakeman must come to the table. He must quantify the need for more bonding; agree in writing to advance our projects in a timely manner; and expeditiously release the more than $1 million in first responder grants he has held up for more than a year.
Until there is an agreement that ensures fairness, transparency and results for every community, we have no choice but to use this form of leverage to force the county executive to act.
Debra Mulé represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s alternate deputy minority leader.
we need strong leadership to prevent civil disobedience and violence, and more credit must be given to President Trump, who was given this arduous task by a clear majority. w hy is there so much opposition?
PAT kING Merrick
The Senate should not confirm D’Esposito
To the Editor:
Just how much confidence can we have in a failed congressman, Anthony D’Esposito, whose brief tenure was marked by slavish obeisance to the grossly unqualified President Trump (before he returned to office), and who now, ironically, Trump has appointed inspector general for the Labor Department, which the administration is eviscerating, after Trump has dismissed independent inspectors-general in more than a dozen such agencies?
The answer is a resounding, Not a scintilla of trust!
More likely, like the multi-failed kari Lake in Arizona, who lost races for both governor and senator but became Trump’s nemesis of the hugely successful Voice of America, D’Esposito is keeping a political profile for a return run for
elective office.
They, along with the current administration, belong not to a (Pete) Hegseth “meritocracy,” but together form the gang that couldn’t shoot straight: incompetent, ignorant, intol-
erant and dangerous to our liberal democratic republic. D’Esposito should be denied Senate confirmation.
