Baldwin Herald 10-17-2024

Felipe Garcia won the 5k race last year with a time of 18 minutes.

Marianne Volpe 5K Run nears 13th annual event benefits Leukemia and Lymphoma

By HERNESTO GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

For more than a decade, Jim Volpe has hosted the Marianne Volpe 5K Pumpkin Run in honor of his late wife, who died from leukemia in 2011.

The race is entering its 13th year on Oct. 26, with all proceeds donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, a nonprofit organization that funds research, education and support for patients with blood cancers.

The event, which will be held at Baldwin Harbor Park, is scheduled to start with a half-mile kids’ fun run at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:30 a.m.

In a phone interview with the Herald, Volpe reflected on the moments after his

wife’s death, recalling how he urged friends and family to contribute to the society in lieu of sending flowers.

But a significant moment came when he received a large check from a friend, prompting him to consider channeling those funds toward a meaningful cause. He reached out to his friend, Robert McIntyre, who works with the society, seeking guidance on how to best use the money.

McIntyre, a leukemia survivor himself, collaborated with Volpe to host the inaugural race in 2012, raising funds for the organization while honoring Marianne Volpe’s memory.

The first 5K took place in late October, in 2012, just before Hurricane Sandy came bar-

Save on your property taxes with Nassau County’s trusted tax reduction experts.

Supporting the dogs with bingo

Christina’s Animal Safe Haven rescues, rehabilitates canines

By KEPHERD DANIEl kdaniel@liherald.com

Christina’s Animal Safe Haven, a grassroots organization in Baldwin founded by local resident Christina Diaz, is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and temporarily relocating vulnerable dogs. With a mission centered on helping animals often overlooked due to age or medical issues, Diaz’s passion for her work shines through in every aspect of the organization.

SThe rescue had held two fundraisers and even hosted a special birthday party for one of their senior dogs. After hearing about the success other rescues had experienced with the drag bingo format, they decided to organize their own event.

enior dogs and special needs dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to

be euthanized.

“Every animal deserves love and a second chance,” Diaz said. “Senior and special needs dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized. I couldn’t stand by and let that continue.”

CHRISTINA DIAZ Baldwin

Most recently, she hosted a fundraiser to support her organization at Michael’s Billiards in Island Park on Sept. 28, which featured drag bingo and raised funds for the rescue and care of senior, special needs, and unwanted dogs. Tickets were $25 per person.

Diaz’s involvement in animal rescue started long before she launched her own organization. As a former volunteer for Bobbi and the Strays, a well-established animal rescue organization in Freeport led by Roberta “Bobbi” Giordano, Diaz honed her skills and commitment to animal welfare. She began volunteering and working at Bobbi and the Strays from 2017 to 2020 and continued to volunteer for several months afterward. Her experience with senior and special needs dogs inspired her to start her own rescue with two partners.

“Christina started out as a volunteer with us several years ago,” Giordano said. “She’s always been enthusiastic, hard-

Continued on paGe 13

Herald file photo

Registration still open to participants

reling through the region. Jim Volpe noted that initial participation was low, but over the years, the race steadily attracted more runners.

However, the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 led to a decrease in participants, resulting in the shift to a virtual race format for the first time.

“Some people ran at Baldwin Park and some ran remotely,” he said. “A lot ran remotely and maybe had 20 people come down to the park. I wanted to keep it at the park to just keep it going.”

Last year’s race raised more than $30,000, and during the past 12 years, more than $300,000 has been raised altogether.

Volpe admitted that he was never a runner in high school, but soccer certainly runs deep in his veins. A Hall of Famer in the Long Island Junior Soccer League, he has also served as the chairman of the Eastern New York Olympic Development Program, a youth soccer association of the United States Soccer Federation and the United States Youth Soccer, for more than a decade.

His children, Chelsea and Shaun, also played in the soccer league before continuing their soccer careers at Manhattan College, and still remain engaged in the sport today. The 5K event has received steadfast support from both the soccer and running communities.

“We’ve always been pretty successful when it comes to runners signing up — over 200 runners,” Volpe said.

Although the race is not new to Volpe, he continues to find joy in seeing familiar faces return year after year to support the cause and honor his late wife.

“I enjoy the people that come, the ones that come year after year — some of which are friends and family,” he said. “I enjoy celebrating my wife’s life. We have a lot of good memories, and I enjoy celebrating

for over a decade, the

that and using that to do good things rather than grieving and sitting at home.

“I’d rather turn lemons into lemonade and turn something bad into something good,” he added.

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To register for the 5K run, visit Events.EliteFeats. com/24volpepumpkin. Online registration costs $30 for the 5K run/walk and $10 for the kids’ half-mile run.

Stop by our Baldwin branch. Have a cup of coffee and learn how we can serve your financial needs. When you’re ready to switch banks, we’ll make the whole process a breeze.

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Schedule an appointment or open an account online: ridgewoodbank.com

Herald file photo

marianne Volpe 5K pumpkin run has brought together community members from Baldwin and beyond to honor the late Volpe and raise funds for blood cancer research.

Baldwin Fire celebrates National Fire Prevention Week

The Baldwin Fire Department held an event on Oct. 6 in recognition of National Fire Prevention Week, aiming to educate the community about fire safety and prevention measures.

Community members gathered at the fire station for a day filled with activities, including live demonstrations of firefighting techniques, advice on heating safety, and first aid. One of the highlights was an extraction demonstration, showcasing how firefighters safely rescue individuals from vehicles involved in accidents. Local children had the chance to meet the firefighters, explore the equipment, and even interact with Sparky the Fire Dog, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Fire Prevention Week is a weeklong observance that originated from the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, an inferno that burned through Chicago for 24 hours.

— Hernesto Galdamez

BALDWIN

Christine Rivera/Herald photos

Baldwin children Loghan Lake, 7, Leyah Dixon, 7 and Olivia Baque, 8, were all smiles posing in front of the Baldwin Fire Department fire truck.

Volunteer firefighters were demonstrating how to put out a stove fire.

Firefighters demonstrated vehicle extraction techniques used to rescue individuals from accident scenes.

Town Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Chief of the Department Anthony Hopkins, Fire Prevention Chairperson Tom Ryley and Assemblyman Brian Curran were in attendance for this year’s Fire Prevention event at the Baldwin Fire Department.

Children greeted a special guest.

Tax credit initiative is saving newspapers

By AMANDA MOTT

Special to the Herald

Earlier this year, the Baldwin Herald joined over 200 other local newspapers in New York State to launch the Empire State Local News Coalition, which successfully advocated for a state tax credit to support jobs in local newsrooms across the state.

Now, the fruits of this effort are paying off.

Spurred by the Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs Program — the nation’s first tax credit incentivizing hiring at local media outlets — three new local newspapers launched earlier this month in areas previously impacted by newsroom closures in Westchester and on Long Island.

Two of the three Westchester communities that lost their newspapers earlier this year saw the founding of the Rivertowns Dispatch (Ardsley, Hastings-On-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington) and The Recorder (Bedford, Lewisboro, Pound Ridge). A third newspaper, the Floral Park Villager, debuted on Long Island in a community that lost its own weekly paper during the Covid19 pandemic, further demonstrating the program’s ability to revive local journalism and reestablish connections within these communities.

“When we support local journalism, our communities win,” said Zachary

Richner, founder of the Empire State Local News Coalition and director of Richner Communications, which owns the Long Island Herald newspapers.

“The launch of new local, independent news outlets in Westchester and Long Island is a testament to the momentum created by New York’s passage of the

Estate Planning for the Estranged Child (Part One)

too

tale about an estranged child. Naturally, they are at a loss as to what to do about the situation when it comes to leaving that child an inheritance.

Years ago, the famous advice columnist Ann Landers wrote that her all time most requested column for reprint was on this very subject. Ann wrote that an inheritance should be considered a gift and that if the gift is not deserved one should not be expected. While that may have been good advice at the time and perhaps still is in most cases, like many things it is more complicated today. In practice, we find that many of these once loving sons and daughters have married individuals with borderline or narcissistic personality disorders. Their spouses are manipulative and controlling. They seek to separate the loving son or daughter from their family so as to better control their spouse. The estranged child knows from experience that going against the wishes of their narcissistic spouse is like throwing gasoline on a fire —

so they go along to get along.

Why does this happen? The manipulator has an enormous advantage over the clients’ son or daughter. The manipulator is a professional, having been this way all their life, honing their skills. The estranged son or daughter is an amateur — they have no experience in being manipulated. It may take years for them to even understand they are being manipulated and then more years, if ever, to build up defenses to the manipulation.

When young children are involved, the estranged child well knows the adverse consequences of having any normal relationship with their children should they seek a divorce from the narcissist.

Our advice is to try to understand and be compassionate with an estranged son or daughter in this situation. An Inheritance Protection Trust (IPT), that may only be used for them and your grandchildren, managed by either a sibling or a professional, may be the answer to such a heart-rending situation.

nation’s first tax credit for hiring at local media outlets. We started the Empire State Local News Coalition after some of these very communities lost vital news sources earlier this year and are thrilled by this resurgence in a shockingly short amount of time.”

The Empire State Local News Coalition, which represents over 200 New York newspapers, was instrumental in advocating for the program’s inclusion in the State budget, which offers a 50 percent refundable tax credit on the first $50,000 of each employee’s salary, with a cap of $300,000 per business over three years. The passage of this bill aims to help combat the state’s rapid decline in local journalism in New York. The state has lost nearly half of its newspapers and thousands of media jobs over the past two decades.

Publishers of the new newspapers shared their optimism and positive outlook for their industry in light of the Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs program. Allison Schulte, publisher of the Rivertowns Dispatch stated, “We launched the Rivertowns Dispatch to bring back local news to the

communities of Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Ardsley & Dobbs Ferry, New York after our old local newspaper closed earlier this year. We launched the Rivertowns Dispatch because we believe starting with a shared set of facts makes for richer community life, and that newspapers can be fun as well as useful. We are thrilled for the passage of the New York Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs Program because it makes it easier for us to hire full-time, quality journalists to share the news and information our communities want and need. We are so grateful to the Empire State Local News Coalition for its advocacy in bringing urgency to the challenges facing New York’s local media industry.”

Lloyd Trufelman, co-founder and publisher of The Recorder, highlighted the critical role of local news in preserving democracy: “The launch of The Recorder, a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom, shows New Yorkers recognize that a healthy democracy depends on access to reliable, quality news sources to stay informed.” Trufelman expressed hope that similar policies would continue to bolster nonprofit news outlets and support a diversified local news ecosystem.

On Long Island, Meg Morgan Norris, publisher of the Floral Park Villager, emphasized the program’s importance in the decision to launch the new paper. “The loss of Floral Park’s longtime newspaper, the Gateway Bulletin, during the Covid-19 pandemic was devastating for this tight-knit community. With the tax credit, there is a path to long-term fiscal stability for outlets like ours,” Norris said.

As local journalism continues to face evolving challenges, the Empire State Local News Coalition and the Baldwin Herald remain committed to advocating for long-term sustainability in the industry so that communities like Baldwin have trusted local news sources. These new publications mark a hopeful step forward in the resurgence of local media across New York, with the coalition pushing for continued legislative support to ensure the long-term sustainability of local journalism.

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Courtesy Empire State Local News Coalition

Co-founders Lloyd Trufelman, Karen Sabath and Ed Baum celebrate the successful printing of the Bedford Recorder’s first issue.

baldwin

CHARLI TESORIERE

East Meadow 8th grade Soccer

NEW TO VARSITY soccer but no stranger to finding the scoresheet, Tesoriere is a big reason East Meadow is on the verge of earning the Nassau Conference AAA/AA4 crown with 11 wins through its first 12 games. Heading into this week’s action, the eighth-grader ranked tied for the county lead in goals with 22. She’s recorded eight multi-goal games and netted hat tricks against Valley Stream Central (both meetings), Hewlett and Glen Cove.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, Oct. 17

Boys Soccer: Baldwin at Mepham 4:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Sewanhaka at Carey 4:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer: V.S. Central at Long Beach 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Kennedy at South Side 5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Uniondale at Freeport 5 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Wantagh at Lawrence 5:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Calhoun at South Side 6:45 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Clarke at Plainedge 6:45 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Lawrence at V.S. South 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 18

Football: Hewlett at South Side 6 p.m.

Football: East Meadow at Oceanside 6 p.m.

Football: Baldwin at Jericho 6 p.m.

Football: Island Trees at West Hempstead 6 p.m.

Football: C.S. Harbor at Plainedge 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 19

Football: North Shore at Wantagh 11 a.m.

Football: Lynbrook at Garden City 1 p.m.

Football: Clarke at V.S North 2 p.m.

Football: Farmingdale at Freeport 2 p.m.

Football: Westbury at Uniondale 3 p.m.

Football: Bethpage at Kennedy 3 p.m.

Football: Port Washington at Massapequa 3 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall 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.

HERALD SPORTS

Baldwin keeps playoff hopes alive

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Winless in four straight against Nassau Conference AA-1 rivals, Baldwin’s boys’ soccer team entered the final four games of the regular season with little margin for error.

One down, three to go.

The Bruins earned their first victory in three weeks Oct. 9, taking down injury plagued MacArthur, 3-1, behind a pair of goals from Nathaniel Hernandez and one from Erick Ramos. Matt Kobrin scored his team-leading sixth goal of the year for the Generals, who are out of playoff contention.

“Nathaniel is a senior and hasn’t had the kind of season he wanted, but he never stopped working and today in school when I saw him in the hallway I told him I wanted two goals today,” Baldwin coach Chris Soupios said after the game. “He knew I wasn’t kidding and he delivered. It’s a big moment for him.”

Both of Hernandez’s goals came in the second half. Ramos opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a rightfooted blast and Kobrin answered for MacArthur (1-73 in AA-1) with a similar shot 12 minutes later.

“We’ve literally had some bad breaks this year,” Generals coach Andy Atkins said. “We were young to start and had Trevor Rizzo and Tristan Magnozzi both suffer bad injuries in the first East Meadow game [Sept. 9] and Liam Dunleavy went down in the second East Meadow game [Sept. 27].

“We’ve had some young

guys come up and step up, but it’s a very strong conference and we just haven’t been

able to finish and score enough,” he added.

Baldwin (3-4-4) limited

MacArthur’s scoring chances in the second half behind a revamped defense consisting of Matt Alexandre, Max Ascencio-Cueva, Toni LopezAguilar and Justin Victor.

“It’s now or never time,” Soupios said. “Losing to Jericho last week put us in a situation we didn’t want to be in. Now we have to battle to get into the playoffs. We have to be over .500 in the last three games.”

Kobrin, a sophomore, has been a standout at sweeper and offensively on set pieces for the Generals, Atkins noted, with Dunleavy (stopper), Zach Draguca (goalkeeper), Derek Acosta, Vin Silvestri and Nick Nemeth also providing strong contributions.

Ramos has been Baldwin’s top player this fall, Soupios said. Ramos assisted on Allan Paredes’ game-winner Sept. 18 when the Bruins defeated MacArthur at home, 2-1. “Erick does everything asked of him and we move him all over the field,” the coach noted. “He’s hardnosed.”

The Bruins had a fourgame unbeaten streak between Sept. 13 and 26 before two recent hiccups. Devonte Young scored both of their goals in a 2-2 draw with Mepham, and also the lone goal in a shutout win over East Meadow that saw keeper Brandon Torres make 6 saves.

“Ultimately it’s been about putting together 80 minutes,” Soupios said. “We’ve allowed some early goals and some late goals. Honestly, I wasn’t thrilled with our first half today but we played at another level in the second half.”

Ron Manfredi/Herald

Baldwin defender Justin Victor, left, battled with MacArthur’s Saul Moncada during the Bruins’ 1-0 win Oct. 9.

Lenox School receives School of Excellence recognition

Lenox Elementary School has been designated a School of Excellence by the National PTA, a recognition given to only 10 schools across Long Island, 19 statewide, and 319 nationwide.

The National PTA’s School of Excellence program helps PTAs implement school improvement initiatives aligned with its national standards for family-school partnerships. Schools that show progress in family engagement earn the title, which is valid for two years.

Cami Heyward, vice president of the PTA, led the application process, and Lenox received a School of Excellence banner in recognition of this achievement.

“The Lenox School community is honored to be designated a PTA School of Excellence,” Sheilah Jefferson-Isaac, principal of Lenox Elementary School wrote in a news release. “This achievement reflects the strong partnership we have built with our PTA, one grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to the success of every student. Together, we have created a joyful and supportive environment where our children are empowered to reach their fullest potential.”

“We are thrilled to honor the accomplishments of Lenox Elementary School and the PTA,” Yvonne Johnson, president of the National PTA wrote. “We strongly believe that family-school partnerships are critical and that it truly takes all of us working together to support our students’ success and improve our schools.”

“In our district, we recognize that a strong relationship with our families is essential for the success of our schools,” Shari L. Camhi, superintendent of schools wrote. “Congratulations to Lenox Elementary School and their PTA for once again earning the prestigious National PTA School of Excellence distinction due to their dedication to building and maintaining a solid school-family partnership.”

Courtesy Baldwin School District Lenox Elementary School were honored with a School of Excellence recognition by the National PTA. With the honor, the school received a School of Excellence banner.

Curran talks taxes, crime and affordability

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Assemblyman Brian Curran is looking to extend his tenure as the representative for New York’s 21st Assembly District in next month’s election. A lifelong resident of Lynbrook, he took office in 2022, after narrowly defeating thenincumbent Judy Griffin by a margin of just 138 votes.

During his time in office, Curran has been active in negotiating a new inflation factor for foundation aid funding, which is essential for public school districts across the state. His efforts were particularly vital when Gov. Kathy Hochul’s executive budget proposal threatened to reduce aid and eliminate the “save harmless” program, potentially impacting schools in East Rockaway and Oceanside. Additionally, Curran has successfully advocated for funding to expand universal pre-K programs and enhance public safety and mental wellness initiatives.

At a roundtable discussion hosted by the Herald on Oct. 4, Curran identified his top priorities as taxes, crime, affordability, and quality-of-life issues. He highlighted concerns over rising utility costs, child care expenses, and inflation, which he believes have significantly impacted residents’ financial stability.

Curran pointed to recent utility rate hikes by National Grid, Liberty Water, and PSEG, attributing them to policies established in Albany, particularly the

2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. He criticized the act for its “unrealistic” timeline and expectations, stating, “Everybody wants clean water, air, and environment. I think it was a bad plan with the best of intentions, but it’s a bad plan.”

Addressing other local issues, Curran expressed concerns over increasing airplane noise and congestion pricing. He noted that air traffic over his district has surged, with the FAA reporting a fourfold increase in flights compared to the previous year. “They couldn’t explain why,” he said, emphasizing the frustration among residents. Curran has supported legislation for a health study on airplane noise, although he noted that findings have yet to be released.

On school safety, Curran advocates for increased funding for resource officers.

“You should always have a presence at the school that can detect, alert, and respond to emergencies,” he asserted. He has collaborated with local mayors to secure grants for upgrading school security systems.

Curran has long opposed congestion pricing, which would impose a $15 fee on drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street, calling it an unfair burden on middle-class workers. He criticized the law for its lack of exemptions for firefighters, police and teachers, saying, “That’s going to cost them close to $3,500 a year.” He also expressed his disappointment over the fact that Hochul’s decision to pause

Tim Baker/Herald

Assemblyman Brian Curran discussing his goals, if he is re-elected next month, during a recent Herald roundtable.

the implementation of the pricing plan came after the expenditure of $200 million in taxpayer funds. “That really is a spit in the face of the taxpayer,” he said.

He acknowledged that property taxes on Long Island have always been high, but noted that in the last decade, New York has lost more than a million residents to outward migration.

“We’ve led every state in that category for three out of the last four years,” he said, “to the point where even Governor Hochul said we can’t ignore this anymore.” He said he plans to continue to advocate for expanding STAR exemp-

tions, which help reduce school taxes for homeowners, particularly seniors.

Curran also addressed bail reform, which he opposed in 2018, citing concerns raised by police and district attorney organizations. “I never questioned the intent of the people trying to pass that bill,” he said. “If you look at it, bail, in and of itself, is a rich-poor issue.” He said that he understands that it is fundamentally unfair if a person who can pay bail gets out, while a poorer individual arrested on the same charges cannot. “But what they did in 2019 … took the entire bail system and just threw it out.” He said that after four attempts at fixing the legislation, Albany should provide judges more discretion to determine whether to set bail for offenders deemed a danger to the community.

“Public safety has to come first,” he said.

In addition to these issues, Curran discussed mental health initiatives and infrastructure funding. He also opposed Hochul’s 2023 proposal to require the construction of 2,500 housing units around LIRR stations within three years, arguing that local zoning regulations should guide such projects instead of state mandates.

Griffin focuses on education and equal rights

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Former State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin is looking forward to her rematch with the incumbent, Brian Curran. After she lost the race in 2022 by a slim 138-vote margin, she hopes to reclaim her seat in Albany.

Griffin has lived in Rockville Centre for more than 30 years, initially working in the financial industry before taking on roles as a lifestyle coach and corporate wellness educator. In 2016, she served as director of community outreach for former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky. Two years later, in 2018, she became the first Democrat to win the seat in more than 40 years. She served two terms before being unseated by Curran.

During her time in office, Griffin secured more than $8 million in funding from the state for local police and fire departments, schools, libraries, veterans’ halls, and non-profit organizations in her district. If elected, she hopes to continue her work as an advocate for education, mental health initiatives, reproductive rights, and local law enforcement.

Foundation aid, one of the largest sources of funding for public school districts, will likely be a major concern for Nassau County residents following Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2024-25 executive budget proposal, which, if it were approved,

would have reduced the anticipated aid increase by more than $400 million statewide, leaving schools to face more than $23 million in proposed cuts.

“When the governor is delivering the State of the State and putting out a budget, to me, that is not the time to say ‘We’re going to reimagine foundation aid,’” Griffin said during a Herald roundtable discussion. Instead, she emphasized an idea for a more collaborative approach between state lawmakers, the governor’s staff and various stakeholders, meeting before the legislative session begins in January to discuss foundation aid.

Griffin also championed the establishment of health and wellness centers within school districts in Baldwin and Freeport, which provide support for both physical and mental well-being.

“It’s so helpful for students and families,” she said. “With so many working families it makes it more difficult … I think in today’s world, kids can get lost in the shuffle.”

In regard to public safety and criminal justice, the GOP has been very critical of bail reform — a state law passed in 2019 ending the use of cash bail for misdemeanors and minor offenses. Republicans criticize the law, arguing that it has created a “revolving door” for the convicted. Griffiin challenged this narrative for weaponizing criminal justice reform, and said she remains committed to ensuring

equality in the legal system.

“First of all, I find that much of what the GOP says on this issue is not even true,” she said. “That’s not saying we don’t need to look at things and make sure we have the safest communities possible. But there’s a lot of rhetoric behind this.” Griffin said she has worked closely with police unions and the District Attorneys Association on a series of revisions to make sure the law appropriately categorizes non-violent offenses. She also played a big role in the Red Flag Gun Law, which aims to prevent individuals who pose a threat to themselves or others from obtaining firearms, and the “teacher gun law,” ensuring that educators would never be compelled to carry weapons in schools.

She is a staunch supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment, which she previously co-sponsored and voted for in 2022. She emphasized that it not only affirms fundamental rights, but also provides legal protection against discrimination of marginalized communities.

Griffin said her commitment to reproductive rights is evident in her support for the state’s codification of Roe v. Wade in 2019.

“It is possible that (Donald) Trump could be our new president, and if he invokes the Comstock Act, which could make anything used for abortion — equipment, medicine, any of it — banned across our country,” Griffin said. She said

Tim Baker/Herald Former state Assemblywoman Judy Griffin discussed her stance on state issues during a Herald roundtable on Oct. 2.

she is concerned about how restrictions on reproductive health could jeopardize women’s health and wellbeing.

Regarding housing, she said that while there is a great need, it is also something that needs to be addressed strategically, providing suburban municipalities the ability to weigh in. Griffin believes we can build a better future for Nassau County by fostering collaboration and addressing disparities.

Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast returns for another year

The Baldwin community is buzzing with excitement as the Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast kicks off its sixth season, introducing a fresh lineup of hosts. This student-run podcast offers engaging interviews with athletes, coaches, and administrators from the Baldwin school district, releasing new episodes regularly throughout the school year.

Returning as co-host, Blaine Harding is joined by newcomers Robert Bautista Chavez and Averi Thomas, while Craig “CJ” Graham takes on the role of Editor/ Producer.

“I’m excited to be back for another season of the Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast!” Harding stated in a news release. “As my knowledge of each sport Baldwin offers grows, I get exceedingly more excited to interview players and share knowledge, along with joy, for their sport! I strive to make each episode more informational, as well as entertaining, in order to produce the best sports podcast Baldwin has to offer.”

Thomas and CJ expressed their enthusiasm on the podcast.

“As my first year participating in the podcast, I am delighted to get the opportunity to interview and learn more about the different sports teams/activities provided at Baldwin High School,” Thomas stated. “The podcast is a great way to be more involved with the sports teams and is also really fun to do.”

“This is my first year and I hope for many more,” CJ stated. “Editing is fun for

me, and doing it for a whole district to see is thrilling. Hearing all the teams’ accomplishments and the players’ goals is really motivating, and I hope the listeners enjoy it.”

Gregg Kelley, a business teacher at Baldwin High School, serves as the podcast’s advisor. He conducts panel interviews with the current staff to select members for the following year, making the process highly competitive with exceptional candidates.

“It has been amazing to watch the Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast grow over the years,” Kelley remarked. “The students I have the pleasure of working with every year are so dedicated and produce an amazing weekly podcast. I couldn’t be prouder.”

The Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast holds the distinction of being the first podcast dedicated to Long Island high school sports. It has garnered accolades from the Press Club of Long Island, earning 1st place in the “Best High School Broadcast” category for two consecutive years.

Additionally, the podcast was recognized as “Best Podcast” in the annual “Best of Long Island” competition by Bethpage Federal Credit Union for both 2022 and 2023, with another nomination this year.

Listeners can tune into the podcast via the district’s website and various platforms, including Spotify, Anchor, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Overcast, Radio Public, and Stitcher.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Herald file photo

The Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast returns for another year, diving deep into the happenings in the Baldwin sports world.

9 BALDWIN HERALD — October 17,

Autumn Book Giveaway at Baldwin Public Library

The Baldwin Public Library held the much-anticipated Autumn Book Giveaway Extravaganza on Sept. 28, drawing book enthusiasts of all ages from the community.

Guests were greeted with a vast selection of books, DVDs, music CDs, and unique treasures catering to diverse interests. Whether they were hunt-

ing for literary gems or multimedia entertainment, there was something for everyone to uncover. Attendees were encouraged to bring their own bags to carry home their new discoveries, ensuring that everyone could enjoy free access to new reading material and media.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Maureen Lennon/Herald photos Many people from the surrounding communities came to the library to pick up some free books.

Nga Yan Chow and her son Gavin Lan, 5, were spotted with Gavin’s bag brimming with books.

Crystal Connell looks through the children section for some goodies.

Denise Vincello discovered a hidden literary gem, ready to whisk her away on a new adventure as she prepared to take it home for a read.

Hundreds come to Hempstead job fair

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

The Town of Hempstead job fair at the Freeport Recreation Center on Sept. 19 was bustling with activity, as nearly 2,000 job seekers packed the venue in search of new employment opportunities.

Hosted by Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy and the Village of Freeport, the event featured close to 100 employers with jobs in a wide range of industries, including civil service, construction, health care, banking, emergency services, solar energy and publishing.

HempsteadWorks, part of the town’s Department of Occupational Resources, which has been organizing job fairs since 2021, has seen significant growth in attendance, with this year’s turnout rivaling an event last March. The fair was wellorganized, with a time slot-based registration system to cut down on wait times — a system that has proven effective at previous events. Job seekers without time slots were still welcome to attend, and in the afternoon, the line of applicants stretched down the sidewalk outside the building.

For many attendees, the fair offered a rare chance to meet employers face to face, something that is becoming less common in today’s largely online jobsearch environment.

“I feel like it gives you a better chance of getting the job,” Steven Kaegen, a 23-year-old from East Meadow, said. Kae-

gen came to the fair looking for opportunities in the U.S. Postal Service and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry, and he appreciated the personal interaction. “I don’t like sitting behind a desk or working with other people too much,” he added, noting that some of the “hands-on” jobs at the fair were more appealing to him.

Barbara Florence, representing Harbor Child Care, shared the sentiment that events like this one connect job seekers and employers in ways that the online application process simply can’t. Harbor Child Care, a program that supports early-childhood education, has taken part in the Hempstead job fair for the past five years.

Florence described it as an opportuni-

ty to make meaningful connections with potential hires, many of whom have gone on to work for the organization. “We receive a lot of resumes to follow up and get people from job fairs,” she said. “It’s great to be able to support the community, so we’re happy to be here.”

One of the main attractions of the fair was the diversity of opportunities that were available. Attendees could explore careers ranging from public safety positions with the Nassau County Police Department to educational roles with Soccer Shots, which hires coaches to teach children the fundamentals of soccer.

Herman Franco, a representative of Soccer Shots, said the organization is always looking for enthusiastic applicants who enjoy working with children. “We

teach kids soccer from the ages of 2 to 8, so we’re always looking for coaches that are very good with kids, patient and outgoing,” Franco explained.

The fair gave Jose Melendez a chance to explore government-related jobs. “I was looking more government-wise, like NYPD or Nassau County P.D.,” the 18-year-old Hempstead resident said.

Melendez said he appreciated the ease of attending the fair, noting that it was better than applying online. “You just come in person and talk to people,” he said, adding that he received valuable advice about the NCPD’s hiring process.

Fern Summer, who works with Long Island Cares’ veterans program, was on hand not only to promote job opportunities, but also to share information about support services. “I work with veterans, but most of the people who come through are civilians,” Summer said. “We collect information and give out information, so it’s whatever they want.”

The job fair has become an essential part of many job seekers’ search for employment. Nene Alameda, a business representative for HempsteadWorks, previously noted that the rapid growth of the event reflects the increasing need for such opportunities, particularly as pandemicrelated financial assistance dwindles and more people enter the job market.

Despite the challenges, Alameda remains optimistic about the job market. “For every job seeker that’s out there, there (are) two positions,” she said.

Mohammad Rafiq/Herald photos

Job seekers lined up outside the Freeport Recreation Center for the Town of Hempstead job fair. The event drew nearly 2,000 attendees.

Here’s TheSCOOP

eeling miserable? It’s natural to wallow in your misery. Angry folks do it by obsessing about the wrongs others have done to them. Sad folks do it by recalling their hurts, disappointments and pain. Worried people do it by anguishing about the next trouble, before it even occurs.

Yes, there’s something to be said for feeling miserable from time to time. If these are your honest emotions, you need to feel them—not deny, repress, distort or suppress them. Indeed, good energy can flow from feeling hot under the collar about wrongs done to you. Though sadness is strongly felt after losing someone you truly care about, yet your sadness does not have to last a lifetime. Worrying about something may well serve the purpose of averting disaster, but only if you truly can do something about whatever concerns you.

have little, if any, impact on the guilty party. Don’t let too much time elapse before you move from piss and vinegar to kindness and caring. Don’t waste your energy on the one who has wronged you. Instead, calm yourself down and use your energy to do something nice for yourself or someone you care for.

If you’re down in the dumps, dispirited, sad down to your core, it’s okay to feel this wayfor a period of time. However, if you begin to notice that your sadness is transforming you into a pessimistic, depressed, joyless soul, it’s time to act. Though your heart may not be in it, push yourself to go, do, work, play, talk, anything that can get you to see the good in life and bring you peace of mind.

That said, there are times when people hold on to these negative feelings too long. They don’t just feel them-they embrace them, cradle them, exaggerate them---until the feelings transform themselves into an identity. When that happens, they do not just feel angry, sad or worried, they become folks with a chip on their shoulder, despair in their heart or fear in their soul.

If you believe it’s time for you to let go of emotions that have been robbing you of vital energy, I will now offer ideas to guide you on a new path. Do what doesn’t come naturally. Act in a way contrary to how you are feeling! Here are a few examples:

If your co-worker has gotten you so ticked off, that you’d like to wring his neck, you’re entitled to be boiling mad. There’s a time to have a hissy fit, blow a gasket, get bent out of shape. But then there’s a time to let go, to heal, to take care of yourself. If you don’t, your anger will destroy you but

If you’re anxious, apprehensive and uneasy about an upcoming event or decision, it’s okay to feel worried - for a period of time. However, if your worries are creating constant distress for you or if your comfort zone has shrunk to the size of a postage stamp, it’s time to act differently. Feelings often follow behavior. So, even if you’re on pins and needles about taking a risk, asking a question, taking an action, do it anyway. Do it even as you mutter to yourself, “I gotta be crazy to do this.” Courage is developed by taking an action, despite being frightened. Yes, it feels counterintuitive to act contrary to the way you feel. But often, that’s exactly what you need to do.

©2024

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

Linda Sapadin

‘Every animal deserves love and a second chance’

working, and passionate about saving animals.”

Christina’s Animal Safe Haven relied on fosters, where animals were placed in homes instead of shelters. Diaz evaluated the dogs first to match them with suitable fosters, ensuring compatibility with other pets and children. To date, she had rescued ten animals.

Like many rescues, the Safe Haven struggled with the high cost of medical care for the animals, particularly seniors who often had complex medical issues such as glaucoma, heart murmurs, and kidney or liver diseases. Finding fosters was also challenging, but Diaz had some success, especially with people she already knew.

Giordano, who had been rescuing animals for decades, served as a mentor to Diaz. Giordano’s own story was inspirational; she founded Bobbi and the Strays nearly 15 years ago in Freeport and Glendale after running animal rescues on her own for many years. With the support of community leaders, Giordano formalized her efforts into a full-fledged organization that had since saved countless animals.

“Rescue work becomes your life,” Giordano said. “It’s not easy, but when you see an animal that was once discarded thriving in a new home, it

makes everything worth it.”

While Giordano continued her tireless work, often putting in long hours and overseeing more than 40 volunteers between her two locations, she supported Diaz in her efforts to start her own rescue organization.

“I’m always here for her when she needs advice or help,” Giordano said.

“She’s got a lot of energy and a good heart, and that’s what it takes to do this kind of work.”

The event at Michael’s Billiards marked a significant milestone for Christina’s Animal Safe Haven in terms of community outreach and financial support. All proceeds from the event went directly toward medical care, food, and supplies for the dogs under Diaz’s care.

“These animals rely on us, and we rely on the generosity of the community to keep doing what we do,” Diaz said.

For more information about Christina’s Animal Safe Haven, visit ChristinasAnimalSafeHaven.com.

Courtesy Christina Diaz

Christina’s animal Safe Haven fundraiser in island park has helped dogs like these.

BALDWIN HERALD — October 17, 2024

Explaining how a president is elected

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

As Election Day approaches, the League of Women Voters of East Nassau hosted a presentation at the Levittown Public Library on Sept. 18 to educate voters about the Electoral College and its role in selecting presidents.

The league is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that works to protect and expand voting rights throughout the country. According to East Nassau member Barbara Epstein, its goal is to educate communities and encourage people to register to vote.

“It’s important for people to understand what the Electoral College means and how it impacts how people vote,” Epstein said.

At last week’s meeting, legal scholar Wilfred Codrington discussed the history of the Electoral College and how it has impacted presidential elections.

Codrington is a fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice at the NYU School of Law and a professor of constitutional law at the Benjamin N. Cardoza School of Law. His research, teaching and advocacy focuses on voting, elections and the laws of democracy.

He noted that most voters may not fully understand how the Electoral College works. “It is that system that we know and love, or at least we think we know it,” Codrington said. “And I’m

guessing, to be frank, it’s not really clear that we do love it.”

The Electoral College, he explained, which selects the president, was established in the Constitution, with electors from each state fulfilling their duties six weeks after Election Day.

“Neither the 330 million people living in the United States, nor the 240 million folks of voting age, get to choose the president,” Codrington said. “Rather, it is this extremely important task falling on 538 people” — the sum total of the members of Congress, plus three for the capital, Washington, D.C. To win the Electoral College, a president needs to win at least half of those votes plus one, or 270.

The electors, he said, hold that title for one day every four years, and are chosen by the political parties, based on the outcome of the popular vote in each state.

“When we go to vote for the president on Election Day,” he said, “we’re actually voting for people to occupy the roles as presidential electors.”

In 48 states, including the capital, a winner-take-all system is used, in which the candidate who wins the popular vote gets all of that state’s electoral votes. Two states that do not use this system are Maine and Nebraska, which split their electoral votes proportionally based on the statewide popular vote and the results in each congressional dis -

trict.

“It does not matter if you win by seven votes or 7 million votes,” Codrington said. “If you win more than the next candidate, you will win the state’s slates of electors.”

Most states’ voting outcomes can be predicted, but several swing states, in which both the Democratic and Republican parties have similar levels of support, determine who wins the presidency. New York, for example, has not given its electoral votes to a Republican presidential candidate since 1984.

“These swing states have the greatest power,” Codrington said. “They are where the presidential race is most competitive, because Democrats and Republicans in those states are nearly equal, or at least their preferences are.”

As a result, reliably “blue” or “red” states receive less attention from presidential candidates than swing states.

According to Codrington, 96 percent of campaign events during the 2020 election took place in swing states accounting for 20 to 25 percent of the U.S. population. This obviously creates incentives for presidential campaigns to focus on policies of most interest in swing state voters, at the expense of the broader American public.

“The voter turnout is invariably higher in the swing states than it is in the rest of the country,” Codrington said, “That makes sense: If you feel like your

vote counts, you are more likely to vote.”

Throughout the Electoral College’s history, proposals have been introduced in Congress to amend the Constitution to abolish it. In 1969, the House of Representatives voted on a measure to do just that, and more than two-thirds of that body supported it, but when it went to the Senate, the measure was filibustered.

As the nation continues to evolve, questions about the future of the Electoral College have become more pressing.

“I think, like anything else, times change, and we need to change,” Carol Bergman, treasurer of the East Nassau LWV, said.

One of the main reasons why the Electoral College is unpopular, Codrington said, is because it’s prone to failing. Throughout its history, he says, the Electoral College produced what political scholars called “the wrong winner,” where it awarded the presidency to the popular vote loser. It happened in five presidential elections, most recently in 2016, when Donald Trump won despite the fact that his opponent, Hillary Clinton, received around 48 percent of the popular vote, to Trump’s 46 percent.

“So now we can say we know the Electoral College — I’ll leave you to decide whether we love the Electoral College,” Codrington told the attendees, “but for much of the country’s existence, Americans have not.”

STEPPING OUT

Back to the basics:

Building with BLOCKS

Young imaginations reach new heights at ‘Block Party’

By Danielle Schwab

From a futuristic spaceship to a giant castle, there’s no limit to what can be created with blocks and a little creativity.

Young “builders” are invited to show off their skills at “Block Party,” a free-play exhibit for all ages to enjoy.

But be sure to visit soon — Long Island Children’s Museum’s seasonal exhibit is short-lived. It runs through Nov. 3.

“This new exhibit for the museum is so open-ended and encourages so many different modalities of learning and types of play within the space,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education.

While kids may play with smaller blocks at home, these big foam blocks come in larger-than-life proportions — so visitors can make their biggest creations yet.

Steve Martin and Martin Short

• Now until Nov. 3

• $17 museum admission, $16 seniors 65 and older

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

fun.

“These are structures that they can build, that they can climb on, they can go through or under. They can use a lot of dramatic play with this since it’s all just open-ended play, which is what we love,” Niver says. “So there’s a lot of processes happening during this kind of play, and it really invites a lot of collaboration between the adults and the kids as well as peer-to-peer, to work together.”

From long, bendable cylinders to the stackable rectangles, the blocks can be used as the catalyst for an endless assortment of building projects. The results are limitless.

The blocks are all blue, intentionally so. The single block color creates a blank canvas for endless creative possibilities. By eliminating the distraction of multiple colors, children can immerse themselves fully in their designs, focusing on construction and creativity without worrying about matching hues. Thus children are able to immerse themselves fully in play, according to Niver.

“When you have a lot of visual distraction, it’s actually harder for kids to unleash their imagination and learn and have that creative output be as successful,” she explains. “So basically, having them all in one color allows a better opportunity for that to flourish.”

Prompts throughout the exhibit space guide the builders, if some inspiration for their block masterpieces is needed. Build a shelter for a real (or imaginary) pet or perhaps a robot that actually works. The exhibit even challenges everyone to see how high you can build.

For smaller creations, a table of hand-held blocks is available to play with as well.

“The appeal of this exhibit lies in its immersive quality,” Niver says. “While children are accustomed to playing with small blocks that fit in the palm of their hand, here they encounter a larger-than-life experience.”

Once the build is done, it’s time to put young imaginations to the test! Kids can put the spotlight on their creations and produce interesting shadows on the wall for interactive storytelling.

The exhibit was created in conjunction with “Worldwide Day of Play,” an initiative of Nickelodeon with the Association of Children’s Museums to get families engaged with their environment through screen-free play while fostering the benefits of skill-building activities.

“Block Party’” encourages children to develop their motor skills, enhance their muscle strength

“We think it’s really important for the kids to disconnect because they don’t have as many opportunities to do that these days. I find that screens are becoming so much more prevalent, and they’re so accessible in different areas,” Niver says.

“To really set the scene and just bring it down to the basics of building blocks, it’s so beneficial to them for their development, with a lot of social emotional learning happening.”

This is the first exhibit to be installed after the museum’s Fall Fix Up — the annual two-week closing period every September when the museum conducts maintenance and exhibit refresh, along with staff training.

“We go over different aspects of learning and play and try to educate our staff and empower them for when we reopen. We make sure that we reopen in a really impressive way for our visitors, to welcome them back,” Niver adds.

At the Block Party, no dream is too big, so it’s time to get building — one block at a time.

Photos courtesy LICM

Museum visitors are invited to an oversized “block” party where giant lightweight blocks turn playtime into extraordinary adventures. Stack them, crawl through them or team up to make dream designs come true. Construct castles, mazes, fantastical creatures or secret hideaways.

Icons, collaborators and dos amigos Steve Martin and Martin Short have a relationship that’s evolved in unexpected ways since their SNL days. Their comic prowess has surely reached new heights since their involvement in Hulu’s smash hit “Only Murders in the Building.” The pair takes another comic turn as special guests at Tilles Center’s 2024 Gala. These two funnyman display their impeccable talents as “The Dukes of Funnytown!” — a show that redefines the form in unexpected and profound ways, from two of the most influential and acclaimed talents of the past century. Their humor is often subversive, but it is always a joyous self-deprecating romp from two comedy masters driven to make each other laugh as much as the audience.

Saturday, Oct. 19, 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $70. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Anthony Rodia

Anthony Rodia lets loose with his “Totally Reliable” tour. A firstgeneration Italian-American, Rodia came out of the womb making people laugh. In his 20s he tried a few open mics, but ultimately took a different career path as finance manager of a luxury car dealership. In 2019, Rodia returned to comedy and left his day job to become a full-time stand-up comic. He hit the ground running and performed 100 shows in just nine months, and within three years gained a massive fan base online and around the country. In a short time, Anthony gained over 900,000 social media followers and his YouTube videos have amassed over 22 million views. Rodia’s comedy pulls from his real life and razor-sharp observations on marriage, parenthood and just about everything else.

Saturday Oct. 19, 7 and 9:30 p.m.

$89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

THE Your Neighborhood

Rock the Dock

Ambrosia, John Ford Coley and Peter Beckett (The Voice of Player), will come together for a magical night performing all of their 1970s and ‘80s Billboard Top 40 Hits, on the Tilles Center stage, Friday, oct. 25, at 8 p.m. Yacht Rock the Dock shines the spotlight on the original artists, with Elliot Lurie, as they reinvigorate their many beloved tunes. Enjoy Ambrosia’s everlasting hits including “How Much I Feel,” “You’re the Only Woman” and “Biggest Part of Me.” John Ford Coley, most known as half of the Grammy-nominated duo England Dan and John Ford Coley, performs many memorable hits, including “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” “Love Is The Answer” and “Nights Are Forever Without You.”Peter Beckett, Player’s original lead singer and songwriter. was voted by Billboard Magazine as Best New Single Artist in 1978 for Player’s hit “Baby Come Back.,” while Elliot Lurie is best known as the vocalist for Looking Glass, and sang lead on the band’s hit single “Brandy.” These songs are the soundtrack to a generation. Today’s so-called smooth yacht rock music scene would not be yacht rock without the contributions of these Grammy winning artists. What emerged primarily from southern California during one of the greatest periods of music is a classic rock radio staple across the U.S. You cannot turn on the radio without hearing many of these songs every day. As younger generations of music fans fall in love and embrace these classic rock/soft rock hits, everyone realizes that these songs are becoming bigger now than at any time since their heyday, which by common consent stretched between 1976 and 1983. Get ready to Rock the Dock! Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 2993100.

‘The Birthday Party’

Looking for something to do this Halloween season that isn’t just for kids? Visit Sands Point Preserve for an exclusive, immersive theatrical production, “The Birthday Party,” held in a secluded, opulent mansion, Friday and Saturday, oct. 18-19, also oct. 25, oct. 31, and Nov. 1. For those who attended Archie’s last “Birthday Party,” rest assured, there are new surprises in store.

Guests are blindfolded and escorted to a secret location on the proprerty, Villa Vanitas, to celebrate the enigmatic Lord Archibald Axel Von Finkelshorn Chatterton’s 30th birthday. He is a witless charmer on the cusp of a life-changing revelation, and everyone’s invited to witness his journey on a night that promises to be unforgettable and delightfully unpredictable. Cocktail attire preferred. $175 per person. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit

Adelphi’s Best of Broadway: Decades

Jump into the dazzling world of Broadway as Adelphi’s talented students bring to life the magic of shows that opened 10, 20, 30 or more years ago, Sunday, oct. 20, 4 p.m. Enjoy modern and classic Broadway hits from shows like “Suffs” (2024); “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” (2014); “Sunday in the Park with George” (1984) and “Anything Goes” (1934). Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Chamber concert

Immerse yourself in the rich harmonies and lyrical beauty of a piano trio and solo vocal works, with Old Westbury Gardens ensemble-in-residence Poetic Musica, Saturday, oct. 19, 8 p.m., with pre-concert talk at 7:30 p.m. Cellist Eugene Moye, violinist Erik Wyrick, pianist Yasmin Alami, and mezzo-soprano Eleanor Valkenburg perform works by Debussy, Mendelssohn and Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel. $30, $25 members, seniors, students. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old

Spooky Fest is back

A Halloween experience not to be missed, Spooky Fest is an outdoor adventure perfect for families, whether you want to be scared — or prefer seasonal fun of the non-scary kind. Join in the fun at the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout October. Along the way in the updated and beautifully lit up Enchanted Walk you will see dinosaurs, aliens and friendly witches, costumed characters and more, including the Mystical Garden. Get your fortune told, make a craft and dance with the Halloween DJ, along with face painting and the Amazing Glow tent. For those who want to get scared, venture into the Haunted Woods, where zombies and dinosaurs hang out.. Admission starts at $22. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Visit CSTL. org for call (516) 764-0045 for more information.

Dance Baldwin Salsa and Bachata

Join the Salsa and Bachata workshops as part of the Dance Baldwin series at the library this fall. Led by Johanna Warner of Salsa Sensation, these workshops will teach you the fundamentals of both dance styles. Registration is available in person at the Adult Reference Desk or by calling (516) 223-6228, Ext. 145. 2385 Grand Ave. Visit Baldwinpl. org for more information.

Assembly District 21 Run for Heroes

Lace up for a great cause at the Run for Heroes 5K Run/ Walk hosted by New York State Assembly District 21, Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. Every step supports our local Veterans’ posts. Get ready to run or walk, rain or shine, with day-of registration starting at 8 a.m. All in-person participants who pre-register will receive a special commemorative t-shirt. Baldwin Harbor Park, 3232 Grand Ave. To register, visit Events.Elitefeats. com/24runforheroes.

Having an event?

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues Saturday, Nov. 2, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.

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

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

“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition spans various world cultures through a range of media.

It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

On stage

See Anton Chekhov’s “The Seagull,” presented by Nassau Community College Theater and Dance Department, opening Friday, Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m.; also Saturday, Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 29-30, 7;30 p.m. Delve into the lives of Arkádina, a famous — but fading — actress, and that of her lover, Trigórin, a well-known author. They arrive at her brother Sórin’s country estate for the summer, just as son Konstantín is staging an experimental new play he’s written and directed, starring his girlfriend, Nína. Chekhov’s first successful naturalist play follows the lives of young artists as they navigate life. Thematically, it’s a study of the arts and the artist, the lack of real satisfaction to be found there, the pretense and mediocrity that pervade the practice, and yet the power and mystery that are possible. Nassau Community College’s Little Theatre, Garden City. Tickets $12; NCC students free with valid ID; $10 veterans, alumni, seniors 60+, students and NCC employees. For tickets/information, visit nassau.booktix.com or NCC. edu or call (516) 572-7676.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

A non-profit organization in Oceanside, NY is seeking interested resources to provide bids for sale and installation of components and equipment to enhance our security infrastructure. These include bollards & barriers, fire resistant entry doors and enhanced bullet resistant glass.

Selection of providers in each category will be based on knowledge of each of the above noted components and their integration in our security system framework. Additionally, relevant prior experience, problem resolution expertise, adherence to projected work schedules, agreed upon budget/cost estimates and references will play an important role in the evaluation process.

Next steps and requisite details can be obtained by contacting us by phone at (516)766-6809 ext. 2 or via email at: security@avodah.org with your company name, point of contact & email and/or phone information. Responses will be provided and accepted until November 1, 2024. All information will remain confidential. 149432

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

INDEX NO. 611718/2020 COUNTY OF NASSAU

MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, vs. NICOLE RASHIDI; RAHSAAN RASHIDI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE

TO THE ESTATE OF LYDIA TERRY; MICHAEL BUTT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LYDIA TERRY, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in 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, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SHELDON RASHIDI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LYDIA TERRY, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors,

Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL

SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 566 STOWE AVENUE, NORTH BALDWIN, NY 11510

Section: 36, Block: 402, Lot: 453 & 454

To the above named Defendants

action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: September 9th, 2024

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. 149392

trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES TO THE ESTATE OF LYDIA TERRY, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in 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, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $373,117.00 and interest, recorded on July 11, 2017, in Book M, Vol 42230 at Page 917, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 566 STOWE AVENUE, NORTH BALDWIN, NY 11510. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Crystal T. Khemraj, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

149267

To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST 2005-04, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-04, -againstVALERIE POWELL, 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 February 9, 2016, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST 2005-04, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-04 is the Plaintiff and VALERIE POWELL, 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 COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 12, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 3386 BERTHA DRIVE, BALDWIN, NY 11510; and the following tax map identification: 54-551-54. 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 Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 007502/2008. Harold F. Damm, 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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. CARRINGTON D. BROCK A/K/A CARRINGTON BROCK, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 28, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1109 Cramer Court, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 36, Block 523 and Lot 0070. Approximate amount of judgment is $400,642.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600506/2023. Cash will not be accepted.

Lisa S. Poczik, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149384

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST JOSEPH A. ORTIZ AKA JOSEPH A ORTIZ, MARCUS G. MEIGHAN AKA MARCUS G MEIGHAN, JASMINE ORTIZ, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 28, 2024, 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 November 19, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 1111 Cornwell Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Baldwin, Town

of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54 Block 372 Lot 267 formerly known as part of Lot 16 and Lot 233. Approximate amount of judgment $387,669.44 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #618334/2022. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Tara Mayerhofer, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004088 82766 149466

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU JAMES B. NUTTER & COMPANY, -againstJOSE RODRIGUEZ, 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 August 6, 2019, wherein JAMES B. NUTTER & COMPANY is the Plaintiff and JOSE RODRIGUEZ, 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 COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on October 30, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 767 NORTH WILLIAM STREET, NORTH BALDWIN, NY 11510; and the following tax map identification: 36-181-130. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDING AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT BALDWIN, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 011115/2014. Jared A. Kasschau, 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. 149135

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…

Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR DEUTSCHE ALT-A SECURITIES, INC. MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007BAR1 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, -againstRHONDA SCOTT A/K/A RHONDA T. SCOTT, 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 October 11, 2023, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR DEUTSCHE ALT-A SECURITIES, INC. MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007BAR1 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and RHONDA SCOTT A/K/A RHONDA T. SCOTT, 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 COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on October 29, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 531 STANTON AVENUE, NORTH BALDWIN, NY 11510; and the following tax map identification: 36-388-11, 12 & 13.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN BALDWIN, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610580/2017. Peter Famighetti, 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. 149137

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR TERWIN MORTGAGE TRUST 2005-8HE, ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-8HE, Plaintiff - against - MARIE Y. ST. HUBERT, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on August 13, 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 “Rain or Shine” on the 24th day of October, 2024 at 2:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 2685 Milburn Avenue, Baldwin, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11510.

(SBL#: 54-522-50) Approximate amount of lien $792,713.51 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 614500/2019. Tiffany D. Frigenti, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: August 27, 2024

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 6-feet 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. 149112

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. HECTOR HUGO VARGAS, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Hangout

Belmont Lake State Park welcomed the Flutie 5K for Autism on Oct. 5, an event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for individuals affected by autism.

Local organization Hangout One Happy Place played a significant role in the day’s festivities.

Founded in 2000 by the Flutie Foundation, the race has grown into a national movement, featuring satellite locations across the country while maintaining its

One Happy Place raise over $2K

flagship event in Boston.

Participants of all ages joined in as runners, walkers, or supporters, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with camaraderie and hope. Organizers reported a successful turnout, with Hangout One Happy Place raising over $2,000 and entertaining attendees with live performances from its members.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Pursuant to an Order Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 30, 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 October 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 880 Washington Street, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 407 and Lot 68. Approximate amount of judgment is $620,427.29 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604043/2020. Cash will not be accepted.

Melissa D. Mohan, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149133

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Founder of Hangout One Happy Place, Angela Lucas, was all smiles at the Flutie 5K for Autism event.

Carol McAuley, Heather Tiniakos and Christine Langdon supporting Hangout One Happy Place.

Hangout One Happy Place members were in full force at Belmont Lake State Park.

floral park-Bellerose

elementary school District

The DisT ric T is seeking various posiT ions for T he 2024-2025 school year

Teacher a ides

Floral Park-Bellerose Elementary

Teaching a ssistants $19.95/hr. s ecurity personnel .. $20-$25/hr. Bus Drivers..... $25.14-$26.87/hr.

School District

Teacher Aides

We have openings for teacher aides for the 2022/23 school year. 10-month positions available immediately, starting at $15.00/hr.

School Nurse, Part-Time

We have an opening for a P/T school nurse, 2 days/wk mostly Wed & Thurs. Pro-rated salary, approx. $240.00/day. RN cert. required.

Bus Monitors $19.32/hr. food s ervice personnel and c afeteria Monitor $16.00/hr. nurses sub .................. $175/day cleaners $40,454/year

Please apply for positions via OLAS at www.OLASjobs.org

After School Child Care opportunities are also

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.

Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable

Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

REQUIREMENTS:

Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.

Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

JOURNEYMAN

COMMERCIAL/ RESIDENTIAL

Electrical Services. Traveling/ Valid License Required. 7-10yrs. Experience. $28-$34/ hourly. 516-739-3425, hrdepartment@valenteelectric.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Medical Reception/Accounts

Receivable

Part Time- back-office work. Rockville Centre. Must be friendly, well-spoken. Computer literacy necessary. Back office includes collections/account receivable, verifying insurance and researching claims and some billing. Must be flexible (days/evenings). $18-$19/ Hourly. Email resume drsmnw@optonline.net or fax resume 516-763-4218.

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications

A Home For All Seasons

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

EAST ROCKAWAY: 3 BRS, FBTH, Second Floor, 2 Parking Spots, Pets OK. $2800 Includes Heat/ Water. 516-596-9470

Out Of Town/Real Estate

CATSKILLS: 3 BEDROOMS, 2 baths, 14 acres. 26x48 poured foundation, Needs Work. $169K. Owner. 607-434-8350

Step into a world where past elegance meets

innovation. This remarkable 1930s Tudor has been thoughtfully transformed for the 21st century,

An architect for a sunroom?

Q. I’m buying a sunroom for my breakfast room on the back of my split-level house, about 8 feet off the ground. I’m being told by the contractor that I need an architect and sealed plans. Since it’s basically a kit of parts that will go on my existing deck, why do I need this? It seems like a lot of extra expense the sunroom people didn’t tell me about. If I already have a permit for the deck, it should be allowed, right? I haven’t bought the sunroom yet. I’m just trying to be sure I know the whole story before I do this, probably by spring, when the weather is better for construction. Any advice would be helpful.

A. Do things once, the best way. A deck isn’t habitable, but a sunroom is, and a permit is required. Plans have to show structural support, energy and building code compliance. Rain, moisture and ice are your primary concerns.

You need the whole story without the sales part. Just like any purchase, issues you might not expect are still important, like finding out what kind of oil to add to your snow blower before the engine seizes or that windows without factory tinting can allow ultra-violet sunlight rays to fade your carpet. As an architect for a largely popular sunroom manufacturer in the 1980s and ’90s, I experienced many issues with their construction.

Pre-engineered panel systems are designed by the company, hopefully by engineers, and should come with plans, from the manufacturer, that can be sealed and signed by their in-house engineer. If not, plans may need to be drawn from scratch by an architect or engineer that you hire so those plans can be integrated with your house. Integrated means that the company generally just sells you a product and doesn’t necessarily give any indication of how to support the unit or how to attach the unit system to your house so that it won’t leak or move.

This is the general failing of the system, since, as I experienced with most of the installations, the part I could detail was free of leaking or movement, but the units themselves leaked nearly every time. We could detail how the edges of the unit could be sealed and redundantly weather-stripped and flashed, but the frames around the glass and wall edges would unseal and leak. I even met with the corporate president/owner and identified the specific problems. Promises to correct leak issues were made but not kept, and eventually I gave up.

I looked at a two-year-old system while discussing other work for a home recently. The owner described the back-and-forth misery he and his family were experiencing with their sunroom and the company. Even 25 years after I gave up, the same company is still doing things the same way. You need a detail-oriented architect and installer, even if you think you don’t. The cost of doing things twice is much greater. Good luck.

© 2024 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

Stuff HERALD

UNDER

BROOKSTONE PILLOW TV Remote in box, new, $29, 516-884-9994.

CHARTER CLUB HOME (angels depicted) set of 4 assorted salad/ dessert plates, boxed. $39, 516-884-9994

DOG LADDER: DELUXE, Metal Frame, New, Never Used. Originally $100, Only $25 Firm. 516-486-7941

RADIAL TIRE R255/65R16 In New Condition. $20 Firm! 516-486-7941

WESTINGHOUSE ROKU 32" HD SMART TV, WR32HT2212. New, unopened. $65.00. (516)209-7970.

Cable/TV/Wiring

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free In-

Cleaning Services

MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. 10% Off With This Ad. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Exterminating

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Home Improvement

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Miscellaneous

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Plumbing

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Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Tree Services

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE

AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

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Health Coverage

FREEDOMCARE. LET YOUR loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-516-540-5962

Legal Services

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

Telecommunications

AFFORDABLE

Join the necessary fight against spotted lanternflies

The Herald and other publications have detailed the negative impacts of the invasive spotted laternfly on Long Island, and while the population of these unwelcome insects continues to require intervention to prevent their unchecked spread across our region, there are steps that every Long Islander can take in their own backyard to protect against them.

FRAnK piccininni

At the Long Island Conservancy, we are eager to share some tips that will make a positive impact — and in some cases, multiple positive outcomes by eradicating not only this invasive insect, but also invasive plants that serve as the lanternfly’s primary food source.

First off, much like the MTA’s famous slogan, if you see something, squish something! This fall, keep your eyes peeled for egg masses, and make sure to destroy them through the spring.

Removing the tree of heaven, an invasive non-native plant, is a top priority when it comes to proactive ways to erad-

icate the lanternfly. The tree of heaven is a fast-growing, invasive species across North America that you may not recognize by sight, but you certainly can by scent — it’s also known as the stinking sumac, stink tree, stink weed, and a variety of other names including “stink.”

The plant is spreading with the same vigor as the lanternfly, and removing it eliminates the insect’s favorite food. Mechanical removal is possible: Girdle it, rip it out and remove it; whatever you can do to set them back. Make sure to follow up to ensure it doesn’t regrow.

a species displaced halfway across the world.

S quash them, plant milkweed, and yank out all the tree of heaven you can find.

Many land managers and conservation professionals have warned against mechanical removal, encouraging the use of herbicides instead. In our experience, this isn’t necessary; while the removed/damaged trees will sucker up, if you pull the suckers biweekly for a growing season, the roots will give up the ghost and the problem can be eliminated.

The tree of heaven is a significant problem in our region, not just because of the smell, but because it chokes out beneficial native plants. In the case of the lanternfly, the plant is essentially the closest thing to “home cooking” for

If getting rid of that awful smell isn’t enough incentive, early scientific research suggests that lanternflies that feed on the tree of heaven sequester toxins, called quassinoids, that make our native birds extremely less likely to eat them. So the lanternflies are essentially exempt from the food chain, another reason why so many have managed to thrive in our competitive environment. This is, by the way, why they have those bright red warning colors!

And the tree of heaven isn’t the only invasive species of plant that supports the lanternfly population. Porcelainberry and other species that originated in Asia are key sources of food. Every pernicious invasive species removed means more available space for native, healthy species to grow and thrive on Long Island.

When it comes to native species, there are a few to consider planting, like milkweed. I’ve seen dead lanternflies on milkweed plants — it appears that the dopey insects feed on them and poison themselves. (If you need a bonus reason to plant milkweed, the influx of mon-

arch butterflies is lovely!)

While taking steps to remove invasive plants in your yard and replace them with native species is proactive, some people are well past that point — they’re dealing with infestations. In that case, you may be ready to set up a trap around a native host tree.

Observe where the lanternflies congregate most on your land and set your trap up there. While they tend to like walnut and sumac the best, they’ve been seen on maples, birches, sycamore and other trees. Building a trap is easy — you can find a step-by-step guide at https://extension.psu.edu/how-to-builda-spotted-lanternfly-circle-trap.

For saplings that aren’t big enough for a proper trap, just knock the bugs into a soapy dish. Some will hop away, but they’re quite easy to catch this way, and if you do this once a day, over time you’ll see fewer of them returning.

While combating the spotted lanternfly has been compared to trying to keep water off the beach because there are so many, by eradicating invasive species like the tree of heaven, we are helping to protect our environment now and for years to come.

Frank Piccininni is the president of Spadefoot Design and Construction and a co-founder of the Long Island Conservancy.

How to talk to young people about elections

Every four years, citizens of the United States have the privilege of voting in the presidential election. It is one of the most sacred and awesome responsibilities of being an American citizen. Reflecting on the ideals set forth in the Constitution, it is crucial that we engage our students in conversations about the election process to help them understand and appreciate the significance of voting. Although discussing politics in public schools can be uncomfortable for some, particularly in today’s polarized environment, remaining silent on these issues is actually detrimental. Educators have a responsibility to help develop young people into informed, active participants in the democratic process and, hopefully, the next generation of civic leaders.

As a former high school social stud-

ies teacher, I believe the election season is the perfect opportunity to make learning more relevant by bringing textbooks to life. There are so many invaluable skills students can learn during local and national election cycles. First, they should be taught about the election process. Many of our students come from other countries, including those that do not have participatory democracies. Teachers can use the upcoming elections as a time to provide a refresher on the branches of government and how elections function in the U.S.

We need to help students understand the significance of voting.

developed guidelines for identifying news media bias, which includes differentiating news from opinion, understanding that bias is a spectrum and recognizing our own biases. These are all extremely valuable skills that students will benefit from even after the election cycle has passed.

Additionally, we can teach students how to navigate the media landscape and identify bias in the media. With the widespread use of social media as primary news sources, it is often difficult for young people and adults alike to differentiate fact from fiction or evaluate the credibility of a news source.

The News Literacy Project, an organization devoted to ensuring that all students are skilled in news literacy,

Another critical skill students can develop when learning about elections is how to consider different perspectives. With the explosion of the internet and social media algorithms, it is very likely that young people who get their news from online media sources are never confronted with opinions or values that are different from their own. In order for students to successfully navigate life after high school and become leaders in the global workforce, however, they must be able to listen to the opinions of others, seek to understand a variety of perspectives and engage in civil discourse and debate. These skills are essential for navigating real-world challenges.

Finally, teaching about elections

offers an excellent opportunity to discuss with young people the importance of voting. As educators, we counter voter apathy by teaching students about the historical struggle for voting rights in this country, particularly for historically marginalized groups, such as women and African-Americans. These discussions may evoke strong emotions, but they are vital to helping students understand why voting matters and how our country has evolved.

We should remind students of the importance of taking part in local elections in addition to the national presidential elections. We should also explore ways for young people to practice exercising the right to vote in school, and provide opportunities for them to voice their opinions on local issues in the community.

This is a really exciting and pivotal time in our country, with history unfolding before our eyes. It is our duty to ensure that the next generation is not only witnessing these moments, but is engaged with and prepared to shape them.

Monique Darrisaw-Akil, Ed.D., is superintendent of the Uniondale Union Free School District.

HERALD

sHeraLd editoriaL

The Mets are a case study in grit

ports often provide the most visible examples of overcoming the odds. Take, for example, the New York Mets, who, in late May, suffered a crushing loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, leaving them 11 games under .500. Many fans and baseball insiders had all but written them off, but the Mets didn’t quit.

Instead the ball club made strategic lineup changes and, most important, held firm in their belief that they were still a great team. The result? A remarkable turnaround that put them 30 games over .500 and propelled them into this week’s National League Championship series.

Pitcher Jim Abbott is another powerful example of overcoming adversity. Born without a right hand, Abbott faced enormous challenges from an early age, but refused to let his physical difference define or limit him. He eventually reached the major leagues, and not only pitched at the highest level, but tossed a no-hitter for the Yankees in 1993.

This lesson isn’t just for athletes. Struggling students can reassess their study habits, ask for extra help, and find the support they need. A professional facing new challenges at work can seek out training, lean on colleagues for advice, and even turn frustration into motivation. Teachers, mentors and coaches thrive on helping others succeed, so seeking help isn’t a weakness — it’s a smart move.

Letters

Climate change should be on voters’ minds

To the Editor:

As the election draws closer, we cannot ignore the growing impact of climate change on our communities. Hurricane Helene and now Hurricane Milton, along with dozens of wildfires this past summer, are all clear warning signs of a very real climate crisis.

This issue deserves more attention than it has received so far this election cycle. During the presidential debate, only one brief question was asked about climate at the very end.

The fact is, the climate crisis impacts us all, no matter where we live or how much money we make. Americans are being told to flee their homes and risk losing everything. Meanwhile, Big Oil continues to put profits over people by prioritizing fossil fuels that continue to destroy our environment.

We cannot afford to lose any more time in the fight against the climate crisis. We need leaders — at the federal, state and local level — who believe in the science of climate change and are

Overcoming adversity isn’t just about persistence, but is about a mindset of constant learning and growth. Whether you’re falling behind in school, at work or on a sports team, the temptation to surrender can be overwhelming. But those who thrive amid adversity don’t see challenges as walls; they see them as steppingstones to progress.

If you’re a student struggling to grasp difficult concepts, feeling like you’re always two steps behind, it’s easy to lose hope. At work, new technologies and methodologies might feel like waves crashing over you, leaving you disoriented. And for an athlete, the weight of defeat can make the rest of the season feel like an uphill climb that’s no longer worth making.

So how does a person, or a team, regroup and find success after falling behind?

While determination is key, succeeding isn’t just about plowing through. It’s about strategic adaptation. It’s about identifying what’s important, what’s holding you back, and making meaningful changes — sometimes inspired by others, and sometimes by digging deep into yourself.

The first step often is simply asking for help. And that’s nothing to be ashamed of. We’ve all been there!

Adversity isn’t a dead end. It’s a detour that offers new pathways to growth and success, but only if we’re willing to stay the course, make adjustments, and push beyond the initial

impulse to give up. And real-life stories of overcoming adversity can be powerful sources of inspiration, because they demonstrate that success is often born from struggle, resilience and perseverance.

J.K. Rowling’s journey to becoming the world-famous author of the Harry Potter series is a classic example. Before Harry Potter became a household name, Rowling was a struggling single mother living on welfare. She wrote the first Harry Potter book in coffee shops, often battling self-doubt and rejection. No fewer than 12 publishers rejected the manuscript before Bloomsbury finally took a chance on it.

Thomas Edison, one of history’s greatest inventors, failed over a thousand times before making the first light bulb work. When asked about his repeated failures, Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His relentless drive and ability to see failure as a learning opportunity helped him change the world.

Real-life stories such as these are just a sample of what people can achieve, while illustrating that the journey to success is rarely smooth. At press time, the Mets were down 1-0 to the Dodgers in the NLCS — down, but far from out. The team has shown its fans what it means to push through, learn, adapt, and remain focused on the next game all season long. Here’s hoping that valuable lesson continues.

Blakeman’s actions bring serious risks for first responders

in recent months, nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman has pursued a number of controversial measures that, in addition to likely being unconstitutional, bring with them a number of unintended consequences that will negatively impact our police and first responders.

the most glaring of those actions is Blakeman’s provisional emergency special deputy sheriff program. known more commonly as the “militia,” this misguided initiative has sparked tremendous concern in a number of local police departments. even as the first classes of “militia” cadets have now graduated and are in the process of being activated, our concerns about their training, how they will be identified, and how and when these “deputies” can and will be deployed remain unaddressed by the Blakeman administration, which continues to stonewall

the County legislature’s Democratic minority and the public.

the republican majority’s public mask ban, which Blakeman eagerly signed into law, is another piece of legislation that puts our police officers in highly precarious situations. Under this measure, it’s up to an officer to determine the “intent” of a person wearing a mask. this would expose our officers to thorny constitutional and medical privacy issues under the Fifth amendment and HIPaa laws. Moreover, there’s the risk that a sick person could feel pressured to remove their mask, thereby exposing the officers and the public to Covid or some other airborne disease. to address concerns about constitutionality and practicality, the minority caucus proposed a more narrowly tailored mask law — the Masked Crime accountability act — that would reduce the burden on our law enforcement officers by focusing specifically on punishing those who use masks while committing crimes. While our bill is a clearer

Hdeterrent to crime, the republican majority pushed through its version of the law without considering public concerns or the potential consequences.

ow will a police officer verify a claim of an exception to the mask ban?

For both of these measures, there is the issue of how effectively they can be enforced, if at all. the same goes for Blakeman’s banning of transgender female athletes using county sports facilities, which, like the mask ban, is being challenged in court. How is an officer, having been called to one of the situations created by these laws, expected to proceed? How rigorously should an officer attempt to verify someone’s claim that they qualify for an exemption under the mask ban? How can an officer navigate a heated confrontation over claims that a young athlete is violating the ban on trans athletes? are we going to start interrogating athletes over their gender identity? It’s all a recipe for disaster, and even more lawsuits against the county — litigation that you, the taxpayer, will end up footing the bill for.

With budget season now upon us, I

Letters

willing or can be convinced to take bold action before it’s too late. So I urge everyone: When you cast your ballot next month, think of our planet and the people that call it home.

MartIn MelkonIan Uniondale

The MTA’s capital plan doesn’t have a chance

to the editor:

long Island rail road riders should be concerned that the Metropolitan t ransportation authority’s $68 billion, five-year, 2025-2029 Capital Plan isn’t worth the paper it’s written on. Gov. kathy Hochul claims she can find additional state and federal funding to make up for the missing $15 billion in congestion pricing revenue from the current $51 billion 2020-2024 capital plan. She promises the same for making up the $33 billion shortfall in the proposed plan. t his leaves the M ta with a record $48 billion shortfall in funding! the plan will be dead on arrival.

a llocation of funding for advancing toward a state of good repair in all capital asset categories should be a higher priority than any system expansion projects. Funding for the $7.7 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 2 and the $5.5 billion Brooklyn/Queens Interboro express light rail Connector would be better spent on repair projects. Metro north railroad’s $3.1 billion Bronx east Penn Station access project should be put on hold. Forget about the $7.5 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 3, the 125th Street Crosstown extension, as well.

Don’t be surprised in 2025 when both the governor and the legislature reduce the proposed $68 billion plan by billions. I predict it will end up somewhere in the $50s billion range, to deal with more realistic future funding availability.

larry Penner Great Neck

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

Election Letters to the Editor policy

In the interest of fairness and transparency during the election season, we will not publish letters in the Oct. 31-Nov. 6 issue, the final one before Election Day, that criticize a candidate or a specific issue. This is to ensure that no last-minute submissions are published without sufficient opportunity for rebuttal. Readers are encouraged to send letters to execeditor@liherald.com.

believe it is essential to analyze these controversial measures through another lens — police overtime. When we consider possible impacts on law enforcement professionals, we must factor in how these measures could further burden our officers and increase their workloads — especially as we ponder other proposals that could elevate overtime costs. Before the county clears the way for a casino or any other major development or legislative initiative that could be a significant driver of overtime, we would be wise to commission a thorough evaluation.

Specific to the casino, initial projections of $1.8 million being sufficient to cover the resulting overtime — which is just one quarter of 1 percent of our current overtime budget — seem farfetched. a rigorous review would go a long way toward revealing the true and accurate costs, so that law enforcement agencies serving not only the county, but also its cities and villages, can budget wisely and gear their training resources toward addressing every one of these new endeavors.

Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the minority leader of the Legislature.

Framework by Harriet Katz

On a trip to Ohio, visiting the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

DeLia

DeriGGi-wHitton