Mount Sinai visits Hangout
one Happy Place
Members of Mount Sinai South Nassau
Hospital visited Hangout One Happy Place on Oct. 15 to teach healthy eating habits.
Story, additional photos, Page 3.
Petition against gas station in Baldwin
Over 80 signatures signal community members opposition to plan
By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
An application to construct a 7-Eleven with a gas station in Baldwin was approved in May by the Hempstead Town Board, to replace what was once a Bank of America at 792 Atlantic Ave., which closed five years ago.
Juliette Dixon lives adjacent to the site, at the Barclays Condominium.
We’re a working community, and work hard to maintain our quality of life.
“There are grave concerns, and we respectfully urge you to reconsider granting the variances for this gas station and kindly request a private meeting at your earliest convenience,” the petition stated. “Please understand that our community values its peaceful, safe and attractive living environments, and we believe this development would not align with those values.”
When she learned about the application late last year, which was filed in November 2021, she expressed concerns at a hearing that if the project got the green light from the board, it would negatively affect her and her neighbors’ health and quality of life.
JulIETTE DIxoN
Baldwin
Late this summer, Dixon and her neighbors wrote a letter and drew up a petition that has garnered more than 80 signatures from those who disapprove of the proposed gas station, which they sent to Town Supervisor Donald Clavin and Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Dixon said. They are asking the board to reconsider.
In November 2021, the property’s owner, Keith Pellegrino, of Baldwin 792 LLC, a development company sought a change in zoning to include it in the town’s Gasoline Service Station District, as well as several variances that included a waiver of the Town’s prohibition of the construction of a gas station within 1,000 feet of another station. Community members expressed their concerns about the project at a hearing, prompting Pellegrino to make adjustments from the board to his application. They included planting 14-foot-tall arborvitae
Continued on page 5
Nassau County’s Jewish community unites for Israel
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
e need to continue fighting, because we must see them home.
IRA KOhLER Veteran Israel Defense Forces
The mood was somber at Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre last week, where hundreds gathered on Oct. 7 to commemorate the first anniversary of the attacks against Israel. As local and congressional leaders, alongside rabbinical figures from across Nassau County, stood united in reflection, the crowd listened with to messages of resilience — an urgent call to combat rising antisemitism — and a collective resolve to move forward with strength and unity.
Prior to opening remarks, made by Congressmen Anthony D’Esposito, Tom Suozzi and Nick LaLota, a Color Guard was presented by members of the Nassau County Police Department and the Jewish War Veterans, while Shulem Lemmer, a well-known Hasidic recording artist, sang both the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Hatikvah,” the Israeli national anthem.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Hundreds packed onto the fields of Eisenhower Park last week to reflect on the first anniversary of the Oct. 7 attacks against Israel. Many held Israel flags in support.
D’Esposito emphasized the need for the U.S. to fund Israel in its campaign against terrorism in the Middle East, as well as the need to combat antisemitism at home.
“We need leadership in the House of Representatives to begin to root out antisemitism and evil in every corner
LONG ISLAND’S FAMILIES FIGHTER FOR Judy Griffin’s record shows she’s a
Took action to keep guns out of the wrong hands, passed a bump stock ban and a full package of gun safety legislation
Voted to accelerate middle-class tax cuts and invested $7 billion to expand child care for working families
Allocated billions in funding for the Environmental Protection Fund and the Environmental Bond Act of 2022, protecting our clean air and water while creating jobs
Supported legislation to protect women’s rights to reproductive health care, including birth control and IVF
Ira Kohler, an Israel Defense Forces veteran, reflected on why the campaign must continue in the Middle East, to ensure the safety of the Israeli people and the release of hostages taken by Hamas.
of this nation,” he said.
“Israel’s willingness to fight this is battle, is a battle that they’re fighting not just for them and their survival,” Suozzi said. “It’s for us as well, because the same people that want to kill the Jews, the same people that want to destroy Israel, also want to destroy the United States of America as well, and they’re fighting on our behalf.”
County Executive Bruce Blakeman recalled the moment he received word of the attacks in Israel last year, and said he immediately instructed Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder to mobilize the Nassau County Police Department, and send them to every synagogue and “make sure they’re safe and secure.”
Several speakers remarked on the fact that there are still known hostages in Gaza — including Americans, and Long Islanders, such as Omer Neutra, who’s from Plainview.
The event was coordinated through Nassau County’s work with the Jewish Community Relations Council, led by Mindy Perlmutter. She said 22 Jewish organizations — that make up the Long Island Jewish Coalition — meet regularly to share what they’re doing, and how they can support each other’s goals.
“This coalition, along with our county executive and his office, organized this evening’s program to recall, reflect and comfort each other as we remember those who were massacred — demand that our hostages be released — and emphasize that Israel has a right to exist and defend herself,” Perlmutter said.
Several Israel Defense Forces veterans spoke, including Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip, and Ira Kohler, who recently completed his military service in Israel. Kohler is a Schechter School graduate, and is friends with Neutra.
Even though it’s been a year since the attacks, Kohler said people — like his
Bruce Blakeman, the first Jewish county executive in Nassau County, reflected on the county’s ability to mobilize first responders immediately after the attacks, to ensure the safety of Jewish constituents.
friend — are still living in a “dark day.” “This day will only come to an end for him in one of two ways — he will either have the opportunity to run to his mother, or we will watch his mother bury him in the ground and say her final goodbyes,” he said. “And for that — we need to continue fighting, because we must see them home.”
Members worked on a ‘My Plate’ exercise that illustrated portion sizes that include fruits, grains, vegetables and protein.
Eating healthy at Hangout One Happy Place
Baldwin’s Hangout One Happy Place partnered with Mount Sinai South Nassau on Oct. 15 to promote healthy eating and nutrition awareness in the community.
The event featured informative discussions on balanced diets, focusing on nutritious meals and snacks across all food groups.
Attendees participated in engaging activities, including a “My Plate” exercise that illustrated the importance of portion control and the variety of foods needed for a well-rounded diet.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Hangout One Happy Place, a Baldwin based nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing recreational opportunities for young adults of all abilities.
Here’s TheSCOOP
with our Living In Baldwin Guide Our October 31, 2024 issue will be mailed to EVERY home & business in BALDWIN
Reach all of your potential customers by displaying your advertisement in this full circulation issue. Call your Sales Representative 569-4000 ext. 250
Two students honored in scholarship program
Baldwin High School seniors Lucas Lautan and David Orlep have been recognized as Commended Students in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program, a national competition conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
“Congratulations to Lucas Lautan and David Orlep on being recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program with the distinction of Commended StuNeil Testa, principal of Baldwin High School, expressed in a news release. “We are confident that this is just one of many honors these remarkable students will earn this year, considering their outstanding academic achievements and activities.”
Reserve your space now! Deadline Friday, October. 25, 2024
Estate Planning for the Estranged Child (Part Two)
Last week, we wrote about having compassion for the estranged son or daughter married to the narcissist when considering leaving an inheritance. But what about leaving an inheritance to the estranged child who is not in this situation.
The reasons for estrangement are as different as are families. As Tolstoy famously remarked, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way”.
One of the keys to resolving what to leave the estranged child is determining who in the family are they estranged from and for how long and for what reasons (if known). Sometimes they are estranged from only one parent and the other parent does not wish to see that child disinherited. Sometimes they are estranged from the parents but not their siblings — or some but not all of their siblings. It’s complicated. Often, hope springs eternal that the estranged son or daughter will come back into the fold.
In cases like these we like to use a technique
&
we call “Schedule A”. Generally, in a trust or a will, you will find the dispositive provisions, i.e. who you are leaving it to and in what amounts, somewhere in the middle of the document. When you amend the trust, or prepare a codicil to the will, you may legally change your wishes. Nevertheless, all of the parties can see what it was before and what the change was. For example, if you left someone out and now you are putting them back in, they will clearly see that they were left out before, and vice versa!
To avoid the hurt, confusion and possible litigation that these emotionally fraught situations may engender, we recommend using a “Schedule A” to the trust. Here, in the body of the trust we state that the wishes are provided in “Schedule A” annexed hereto which may be replaced from time to time with the same formalities as the execution of the trust. Now, when a change is made we destroy the old “Schedule A” replacing with the new one avoiding hurt feelings and misunderstandings.
LAW FIRM
516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com
Both students received a certificate and an official letter of recognition from the NMSC, marking this significant achievement in their academic journeys.
“Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” said a spokesperson for NMSC. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their education opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”
This year, approximately 34,000 Commended Students across the United States are being acknowledged for their exceptional academic potential, having placed among the top 50,000 scorers of more than 1.5 million students who participated in the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
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Town will monitor project, officials said
trees on the residents’ side of the fence that separates them from the lot, building an 8-foot-tall sound-attenuation wall, installing security cameras and shielded lighting, limiting refuse pickup hours, and installing new Baldwin Harbor signage.
“There’s no need for another gas station in Baldwin,” Dixon said. “There are three right down the block, and two others between Rand Boulevard and Milburn Avenue.”
A Shell station, at 900 Atlantic Ave., is less than a mile from the site.
Dixon, and others who are opposed to the development, attended the May 7 resolution hearing at which the application was granted.
They said they did not get the chance to speak and were “ushered out of the auditorium” in Hempstead’s Town Hall.
Dixon contacted State Sen. Kevin Thomas’s office to emphasize her concerns further. A member of Thomas’s staff explained that she had to organize a “grassroots effort” by putting together a petition and a letter.
“We’re up to over 80 signers of the petition,” she said. “We sent the letter to them, and haven’t heard back yet.”
“Following the December hearing regarding this property, the Town urged the developer to work with the neighbors and find ways to alleviate their concerns regarding the proposed application,” Brian Devine, the Town’s director of communications, wrote to the Herald in an email. “As a result, the final application for Baldwin 792 includes numerous accommodations and mitigation measures to respond to the feedback presented by neighbors at that hearing.
“As the project progresses,” Devine added, “the developer has committed to keeping an open line of
communications with the neighboring residents, and the Town will continue to monitor the project as it moves forward.”
Dixon said that Baldwin Civic Association President Kimberly Malone and members of the association met with Ryder after the board approved the project to discuss it. In a message to the Herald, Malone confirmed the meeting.
“We talked about how we had major concerns, particularly about the traffic in the area,” Karen Montalbano, the BCA’s government relations representative, said. “It’s a very trafficked area because of the school and the limited roadways that go south.
“The contention by the owner at the hearing at the Town of Hempstead was that that was the only thing
the property that once housed a Bank of america at 792 atlantic ave. will soon be the home of a 7-eleven with a gas station. Community members who live near the property created a petition expressing their disapproval.
they could figure out what to do with it,” Montalbano added.
Montalbano pointed out that there is a 7-Eleven in business diagonally across the street from the proposed gas station, raising questions about the future of that property. As of press time, the Herald could not confirm whether Pellegrino is the owner.
“I feel blindsided and unheard,” Dixon said when asked about the support she has received from the petition. “We are longtime residents here. We pay our taxes and do what we need to do. We’re a working community, and work hard to maintain our quality of life. To know that our elected officials would just go ahead and put something so toxic in our backyards is heart-
GIANNA VENTURA East Meadow Junior Field Hockey
AN HONORABLE MENTION ALL-COUNTY in 2023 after scoring 12 goals and setting up 6 others in her first varsity field hockey season, Ventura ranks among Nassau’s leading offensive weapons this fall and has helped the 11-1 Jets to a conference title. A right wing forward, she has 20 goals and 13 assists through a dozen games. She scored at least one goal in all but one game and has eight multi-goal performances including one hat trick.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Oct. 24
Field Hockey: Sewanhaka District at East Meadow 5 p.m.
Football: G.N. South at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Boys Volleyball: Lawrence at Calhoun 5:45 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: South Side at Lynbrook 6:45 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: V.S. North at Malverne 6:45 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 25
Field Hockey: North Shore at Clarke 5 p.m.
Football: Plainedge at Island Trees 5 p.m.
Football: Massapequa at Westbury 5 p.m.
Football: Floral Park at Hewlett 6 p.m.
Football: Kennedy at Mineola 6 p.m.
Football: Carle Place at West Hempstead 6 p.m.
Football: Wantagh at Seaford 6 p.m.
Football: Oceanside at Farmingdale 6:30 p.m.
Football: Freeport at Port Washington 6:30 p.m.
Football: Floral Park at Lynbrook 3 p.m.
Football: Oceanside at Freeport 3 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 26
Football: Mepham at Sewanhaka 11 a.m.
Football: Carey at New Hyde Park 11 a.m.
Football: Garden City at Elmont 1 p.m.
Football: V.S. North at Lynbrook 3 p.m.
Football: V.S. Central at East Meadow 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.
Baldwin returns to .500 mark
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Baldwin snapped a two-game losing streak in grand fashion on the gridiron last Friday night, shutting out Jericho, 42-0, behind two touchdowns and 170 yards from sophomore Kassimi Taylor and a defense led by junior Ryan Healey (10 tackles) and sophomore Michael Jordan (fumble recovery for a touchdown.)
The Bruins evened their Nassau Conference II record at 3-3 in head coach Mike Robinson’s first year at the helm and kept their playoffs hopes alive with games at Calhoun and home versus MacArthur remaining.
“We’re in control of our own destiny with two tough games to go,” Robinson said. “If we can win one of these last two, we should get into the playoffs. This was a good effort and gives us confidence we can take to Calhoun next week.”
Compared to last fall when the roster shrunk to a small as 18 down the stretch, Baldwin has strength in numbers. The Bruins suited up 32 in the win over Jericho and depth has come in handy given the losses of senior running back/linebacker Amir Hansen since the opener and running back/cornerback Jelani Williams for two weeks.
“I’m happy with the numbers and want them to continue to grow,” Robinson said. “We’ve lost some key guys and others have picked up the slack. Our defense is coming along. We just have to do a better job managing games and getting the defense off the field a little more.”
In three defeats, the Bruins allowed a total of 95 points. In three wins, they’ve yielded only 27.
The offense produced just one touchdown apiece in losses to New Hyde Park and Roosevelt to kick off October before breaking out last Friday night. Senior quarterback Vaughdrea Johnson is the lynchpin and added two rushing touchdowns at Jericho.
“He’s a dynamic leader,” Robinson said of Johnson. “He has great arm strength and he’s hard to bring down when he scrambles. He’s pretty much taking every snap for the past month.”
Quarterback Angel Johnson scored twice last Friday night as the Bruins blew out Jericho to even their record at 3-3.
The ground attack outside of Johnson looks nothing like when the Bruins beat Sewanhaka in the opener. Taylor is one of those who’s making the most of his opportunity. Hansen suffered a hip injury that day and in addition to him contributing some carries, Robinson said the defense was “spiraling for the first few weeks without him.” Williams, meanwhile, could return from a bruised thigh this Saturday to face Calhoun.
The offensive front has primarily featured the same six in a rotation all season: Jayden Young, Derek Coolbaugh, Michael Ellerbe Jr., Matthew Feeney, Andrew
Parchment and Kymani Heaven. “Those guys are doing a pretty good job,” Robinson said.
Another key piece is sophomore kicker Gavin McGinley. He went 6-for-6 on extra points last Friday night and also had a huge day Sept. 28 in a 57-13 win over Roslyn/Friends Academy with a perfect 7 of 7 performance. “Gavin has been a consistent weapon,” Robinson said.
Like Baldwin, Calhoun is 3-3.
“We’re in the same situation,” Robinson said. “It’s basically a playoff game. Hopefully we can be more physical, control more of the clock and find a way.”
Project 2025 pushes controversial policies
By JENNA ZAZZA & LORI SAXENA Special to the Herald
Written by the conservative Heritage Foundation, Project 2025 is a 922-page book detailing overhauls of the executive branch and proposing what some consider as radical policy changes regarding the economy, culture, education and healthcare.
The controversial plans have Democrats in a tizzy, the Trump campaign distancing themselves from the ideas and saying they would embrace the mandate’s demise.
The Project would decimate the working and middle classes.
JOhN RIZZO Economist
Some of the project’s more significant policies include eliminating the Department of Education, transforming the Department of Health and Human Service into an antiabortionfocused “Department of Life,” and increasing the president’s control over independent agencies like the Department of Justice.
Despite Trump rejecting the project, six of his former Cabinet secretaries and over 140 people who played a role in the project also worked in his administration, according to a CNN report.
It’s clear that Project 2025 is an election year buzzword. It has both opponents and proponents. At its core, the initiative seeks to reshape the federal government, but its impact extends to the local level.
In the plans forward, the Heritage Foundation notes: “Every hour the Left directs federal policy and elite institutions, our sovereignty, our Constitution, our families, and our freedom are a step closer to disappearing. Conservatives have just two years and one shot to get this right. With enemies at home and abroad, there is no margin for error. Time is running short. If we fail, the fight for the very idea of America may be lost.”
The economy
The mandate criticizes the Federal Reserve’s monetary policies, recommending a major reform of the agency. Even with major reform, the project argues the Federal Reserve, also known as The Fed, would still cause “inflationary and recessionary cycles.” The report calls for abolish it outright, replacing it with either a free-banking system or reimplementing the gold standard.
A free-banking system allows banks to issue their own notes without government oversight or regulation. The gold standard system fixes the value of currency to a specified amount of gold. Up until 1970, the U.S. operated under the gold standard.
“A gold standard imposes very tight constraints on the government to spend,
The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is a touchstone of controversy, proposing major changes to national policies.
especially in times of crisis like Covid,” said Stephanie Kelton, an economy and public policy professor at Stony Brook University. “This is why countries always go off the gold standard. There is a lot of economic instability in the gold standard.”
Kelton is a former chief economist on the U.S. Senate Budget Committee.
The project claims that the gold standard offers a more stable and less inflationary economy. It asserts that the gold standard will deter the government from arbitrarily issuing more money since a hard asset must back the dollars.
“When we were on a gold standard, the economy would have big booms and big crashes,” Kelton said. “You could say that it was stable if you look over a long period of time like a century or 50 years, but within that period of time, prices are crashing.”
According to economists, a free-banking system isn’t ideal either.
“We saw what unregulated banks did in 2008. It caused a great recession,”
John Rizzo, former Long Island Association chief economist, said. “If anything, we need more regulation not less.”
Long Island is among the top areas in New York state that was hit the hardest by the 2008 financial crisis. The state experienced the most subprime loans with either none or low documentation per 1,000 housing units, according to a report released by the state comptroller.
Long Island also had the most foreclosures, with one every 500 households or less, according to the same report. Congress created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to prevent another great recession and housing finance
bubble. Project 2025 also calls to eliminate the CFPB.
“A bunch of lending activity took place that never should have taken place. Banks steered people into buying homes that they couldn’t afford,” Kelton said. “So if we eliminate the CFPB, it just makes it more likely that something like that can and would happen again.”
Long Island’s unemployment rate is increasing, namely in Babylon town which follows the state rate of 4.9 by only 0.5 points, according to the state’s Department of Labor statistics. The entire region lags behind the state by 1.1 points. Unemployment insurance is also declining. As the rates climb, housing prices are too. The median sale price of a single-family home is nearly $800,000, up 11 percent from last year.
“The housing crisis nearly brought the global economy to its knees, it did, in fact,” Kelton said. “We need people whose job it is to watch out for stuff like this and to intervene and take action on behalf of consumers because, in many cases, people didn’t understand the risks they were taking.”
Project 2025 also proposes peeling back worker pay and protections, making fewer workers eligible for time-anda-half overtime pay by lowering the threshold, and permitting children to work in “hazardous jobs.”
“[The project] is an extreme antiworker agenda that’s more or less designed to allow employers to use and abuse workers as they see fit, pay them as little as possible, offer limited protections, unions, wages, benefits– the whole thing,” Kelton said.
All economists contacted for com-
ment had similar negative perspectives on the project’s economic plans.
The proposed income tax reform simplifies the system to a 15 percent rate for those earning up to about $168,000 and 30 percent for higher earners could have significant implications for Long Island’s middle-income residents. With median individual incomes of around $54,000 in Nassau County and $49,000 in Suffolk County, a large portion of Long Islanders would fall into the lower tax bracket, according to Census Bureau data.
However, many households are already struggling to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and transportation, according to a report by United Way of Long Island. Nearly 30 percent of households in Nassau and Suffolk County face financial hardship despite the region’s relatively low poverty rate of 6 percent.
“It’s blatantly in favor of large corporations and the 15 percent and 30 percent would have a devastating effect on lower and middle-income individuals’ financial situation and overall on the economy,” Rizzo said. “There will be an adverse impact on small businesses that account for 90 percent of the business on Long Island and the middle class. In fact there wouldn’t be a middle class any longer. The Project would decimate the working and middle classes.”
Jenna Zazza and Lori Saxena are reporters with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
Hundreds attend Herald Senior Health Expo
Oceanside’s O’Connell Gardens hosts fourth highly anticipated event in series of 2024 gatherings
By Alexa Anderwkavich
The O’Connell Gardens in Oceanside welcomed eager attendees for the Herald’s Senior Health & Beyond Expo, produced by RichnerLIVE, on October 10 — the fourth in a series of exciting Expos for 2024.
The Expo is a community-loved event where diverse businesses and innovative services share their products and refined knowledge with Long Islanders.
“We are so thrilled with the turnout today — over 400 attendees!” stated Amy Amato, Executive Director at RichnerLIVE. “It offers valuable opportunities for companies and guests to learn, engage, and access essential screenings, benefitting both attendees and businesses. And we are so excited to expand this expo to Suffolk next month on Nov. 3.”
Over 45 vendors offering health, wellness, and personal care insights filled the hall. They provided guidance on enhancing lifestyle through new products and programs, as well as advice on senior living arrangements, financial security, and more.
Guests received free flu and COVID vaccines, courtesy of Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation and free COVID test kits from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s office.
Before noon, guests sat down for a panel discussion to hear experts discuss various topics, including consumer assistance programs and preparing for winter, advanced care directives, Medicaid asset protection trusts and estate planning, and the FCA Ombudsman Program. Guests also experienced an incredible segment from Mae Caime, CEO of aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond, called “Ageless Attitude,” — which got the crowd stretching and in motion!
“Never disappoints!” Caime said. “I love getting the crowd moving and grooving!”
Attendees received a goody bag — courtesy of Giftbag Sponsors Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Beach Terrace Care Center and Oceanside Care Center — filled with the special-event section, keepsakes and vital take-home information. At the end, the first 150 attendees also received a free to-go lunch provided by O’Connell Gardens and raffles winners were announced!
The Expo was made possible thanks to Silver Sponsors New York Department of Public Service, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Centerlight Healthcare PACE and Long Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (Cassena Care).
Guests and vendors are looking forward to the fifth and final expo of the year, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 3, at the Suffolk Y JCC, at 74 Hauppauge Road in Commack, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Baldwin celebrates Fire Prevention Month
Throughout October, students in the Baldwin school district participated in activities to learn about fire safety during National Fire Prevention Month.
Elementary schools collaborated with their PTAs to invite the Baldwin Fire Department, complete with a fire truck, to engage younger students.
“Our kindergartners were thrilled by the firetruck demonstration, where they each got the opportunity to climb inside the fire engine with the help of their teachers and fire chief,” Mark Gray, principal of Plaza Elementary School, wrote in a news release. “The students truly relished this fun educational experience. A heartfelt thank you to our PTA and the Baldwin Fire Department for making this possible.”
After the firefighters from Ladder 2 discussed fire safety, Plaza students received a packet containing crayons and a coloring book with tips on practicing fire prevention at home. Lenox and Meadow Elementary Schools also welcomed firefighters to share lessons on fire prevention and response.
At the secondary level, Baldwin High School @ Shubert students enrolled in the Criminal Justice course participated in a Leaving2Learn event at the Baldwin Fire Department’s Rose Boulevard location. The trip aimed to educate students on how the fire department collaborates with law enforcement and fits into the broader emergency services system in the local community. In addition to learning about daily operations, students had the chance to try on specialized gear and ask firefighters questions.
Justice of the Supreme Court 2024 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES
Andrew Crecca
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 59
Legal career: Andrew Crecca, a figure in Suffolk County’s judicial system for nearly two decades, is looking to take on the state Supreme Court, next.
Appointed as administrative judge for Suffolk County, the 10th Judicial District of the Supreme Court in 2020, Crecca currently oversees operations. This role follows his tenure as supervising judge for matrimonial matters in the same court, from 2013 to 2020.
Crecca’s judicial career began in 2005 when he was elected to the county court in Suffolk. He has since served as an acting justice of the Suffolk Supreme Court from 2007 to 2010 and was elected as a justice of the Supreme Court in 2011, a position he will hold until 2024.
Along with his courtroom duties, Crecca has presided over the Integrated Domestic Violence Court in Suffolk County since 2007. He also served in the Suffolk Legislature.
James F. Matthews
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: James F. Matthews, a candidate for Justice of the Supreme Court in the 10th Judicial District, has over 40 years of legal experience.
Since 2015, he has served as an Acting County Court Judge in Suffolk County, presiding over civil and criminal cases, including business law disputes, personal injury matters and criminal trials.
He has also been an adjunct professor of law at Touro Law School His public service career includes a decade as Northport village attorney and nearly two decades as Huntington town attorney, responsible for municipal law, litigation and land use.
Matthews spent over 30 years in private practice, handling corporate and commercial law, litigation, and personal injury cases. He has a law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and a bachelor’s from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations.
Alfred C. Graf
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 66
Legal career: A Suffolk County District Court judge since 2018, Alfred Graf is now aiming for the state Supreme Court.
Born and raised on Long Island, Graf graduated from Farmingdale High School in 1976. He enlisted in the Navy that same year and rose to the rank of Operations Specialist Third Class Petty Officer. He received an honorable discharge four years later.
Graf earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from SUNY Plattsburgh and his law degree from Touro Law School. His professional experience includes serving as a NYPD officer. He has also worked as an alternative education schoolteacher and as an attorney with his own private firm.
His political experience includes serving two terms as supervisor of the upstate Town of Brighton and was an assemblyman from 2011 to 20118 representing A.D. 5 in Suffolk.
Terence P. Murphy
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Terence Murphy was elected to serve as a Nassau County Court judge in 2014. He previously served as a Nassau County District Court judge where he presided over the Veterans Treatment Court from 2010 through 2014. He is a member of the Nassau County Bar Association.
Murphy is a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served 26.5 years active and military service and was deployed to Bosnia, Iraq and Kuwait. His active duty experience began in 1973 with enlistment after high school. Murphy served as legal adviser to multiple commanders.
Paul E. Hennings
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 63
Legal career: Paul Hennings is a resident of Suffolk County and has served as a District Court judge since 2019 and Acting County Court judge since 2022. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College in 1983 and went on to earn his law degree at Catholic University Law School three years later. After law school, he joined the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office where he was an assistant district attorney until 1989.
Hennings began his career in private practice in civil litigation, trials and appeals in State and Federal Courts. He first served as an associate with Wortman, Furmuso, Kelly (1989 to 1996). Then he joined the law office of Ted M. Toboias, until 2005. He then joined Devitt, Spellman and Barrett, LLP where he practiced as lead attorney until 2008. He then became a partner at Lawrence, Worden, Rainis, and Bard LLP.
Deanna D. Panico
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Deanna Panico is a partner at Bee Ready Fishbein Hatter & Donovan, LLP. She has been in private practice since 2011, specializing in employment law. Panico was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2011, the U.S. Eastern District of New York in 2012, the U.S. Southern District of New York in 2016, and the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals in 2014.
She earned her undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University in 2007 and her law degree from St. John’s University School of Law in 2010.
Paul Hensley
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 63
Legal career: Paul Hensley was a judge for the district court of Suffolk County in New York. He was appointed to the court in 2002, elected in 2003 and re-elected in 2008. Hensley lost the 2014 election. Before his judicial appointment, Hensley served as a principal law clerk. His current titles are County Court judge, District Court judge and acting Supreme Court justice. Hensley has served as an acting Suffolk County Court judge since 2006, and was a law clerk for County Court Judge James Hudson from January 2001 until July 2002. From January 1999 to January 2001, Hensley was a law clerk for State Supreme Court Justice Leonard B. Austin. From March 1998 until January 1999, he worked as an assistant Huntington Town attorney.
Before that, Hensley worked for the Robert Plan Corp., and also served as a Suffolk County assistant district attorney. He received his law degree from SUNY Buffalo.
Gregg Roth
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Gregg Roth is an attorney with over 30 years of experience in many sectors of law, including civil rights law, employment law, personal injury law, social security disability law and workers’ compensation law.
Roth received his law degree at Hofstra University’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law in 1993, and has been a member of the New York State Bar since 1994. He has served as a state principal law clerk for the past 11 years, and previously was the associate director for Drug Court programs February 2011 to April 2014.
An extremely accomplished legal professional for decades, according to people who know him, he’s been crossendorsed by the Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties in Nassau County as a nominee for the New York State’s Supreme Court.
Ryan E. Cronin
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Age: 43
Legal career: Ryan Cronin is a practicing attorney from Garden City. He received his law degree from the Washington University School of Law in 2008. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Loyola College. He was the Democratic candidate for Senate District 6 in 2012 and 2016, losing both times to incumbent Republican Kemp Hannon. He ran for Nassau County Comptroller in 2021 and lost to Republican Elaine Phillips. During his campaigns, Cronin focused on issues such as community safety, justice reform and access to legal resources. He emphasized a commitment to fairness and integrity in the judicial process.
2nd District Court Judge Family Court Judge 2024 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES
Chris J. Coschignano
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 60
Legal career: Chris J. Coschignano is a seasoned attorney and a candidate for family court judge, practicing law since 1990. As a member and partner at his firm — Sahn Ward — he specializes in zoning and land use planning, real estate law, municipal law, economic development, and family law. His extensive experience includes managing complex zoning projects on Long Island, earning recognition for smart growth initiatives. He served as a councilman for the Town of Oyster Bay from 2001 to 2017 and has held various municipal roles since 1995, including counsel to the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals.
Coschignano is active in community service, serving on multiple boards, including the Nassau County Bar Association and the Touro Law Center. He co-founded the St. Edward the Confessor Church’s Annual Summer Festival and coaches youth ice hockey. A recipient of numerous awards, he is committed to public service and education
Veronica Renta Irwin
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 50
Legal career: Judge Veronica Renta Irwin, currently serving on the Nassau County District Court, is running for re-election in the 2nd District.
Renta Irwin completed her early education at Brentwood High School before earning her degree from SUNY Albany and graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1999.
Starting her legal career in private practice, she founded her own firm, Irwin & Streiner, LLC, in Great Neck in 2001, focusing on personal ijury, guardianship and constitutional violations. Renta Irwin also has experience as principal law clerk for Nassau County Supreme Court Justice Sharon M.J. Gianelli from 2020 to 2024. She has also been involved in various legal organizations, including theLong Island Hispanic Bar Association, where is a past president, and as a board member of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association. She also teaches at the School of Law at Hofstra University.
Andrea C. Phoenix
Democrat
Age: 59
Legal career: Phoenix has served as a Nassau County District Court judge in the Tenth Judicial District since 2007, where she presides over the Nassau County Mental Health Court and the Drug Treatment Court. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University, a master’s degree in communication and education from The Ohio State University, and a J.D. from the Hofstra University, Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
Before her election, Phoenix practiced family law in private practice from 1992 to 2006 and was a staff attorney with Nassau Suffolk Law Services. She has led the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association, and she served on the New York State Unified Court System Family Violence Task Force.
She is also involved with the Amistad Black Bar Association, Theodore Roosevelt American Inn of Court, and community groups, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and The Links, Incorporated.
Lisa Daniels
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 58
Legal career: Lisa Daniels has over 25 years of legal experience, focusing on family litigation and guardianship cases.
Daniels holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a Brooklyn Law School law degree She has been an adjunct professor, teaching family law and litigation at Hofstra University and Queens College from 1997 to 2001. Daniels is a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee on Children and the Law and serves on its legislation subcommittees. She is also a member of the Nassau County Bar Association Family Court Advisory Committee. Daniels ran for county legislator in 2013 and eight years later. In 1998, Daniels founded her law firm, addressing a wide range of family law issues, such as juvenile delinquency actions, abuse and neglect matters. She is listed on the New York State Court Part 36 Fiduciary List, serving as a court examiner, evaluator and guardian for incapacitated individuals.
Joseph Nocella Jr.
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 60
Legal career: Joseph Nocella Jr. currently serves as a Nassau County District Court judge, having been elected to the position for the 2023 to 2028 term. County Executive Bruce Blakeman initially appointed him to the court in 2022.
Before becoming a judge, Nocella served as the town attorney for Hempstead from 2021 to 2022 and as chief of staff to the Hempstead Town Supervisor from 2020 to 2021.
From 2017 to 2020, he was the town attorney for Oyster Bay. Within Nassau County government, Nocella has an extensive background, including positions as Counsel to the Office of Housing & Community Development from 2014 to 2017, Managing Attorney in the County Attorney’s Office from 2011 to 2014, and Counsel to both the County Executive and the Nassau County Legislature from 2006 to 2008 and again from 2010 to 2011.
Sean Wright
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 54
Legal career: Sean Wright, a longtime Valley Stream resident, is running for District Court Judge in the 2nd District, bringing decades of legal experience and community service to his campaign.
Wright has spent more than seven years as a prosecutor for Valley Stream, where he handled ticket and building violation cases. Inn 2011 when he became a Hempstead Town attorney and worked as an arbitrator for both Queens and Nassau County. He has served as treasurer for the Friends of Bridge, a substance abuse counseling center, and has volunteered as an attorney adviser for High School Mock Trial, where he helped teacha new generation of legal minds. His dedication to local youth extended to the sports field as an assistant coach for the Valley Stream Green Hornets.
In 2016, Wright was appointed to the Valley Stream village board by Mayor Ed Fare after the resignation of Virginia ClavinHiggins
County Court Judge
Jeffrey A. Goodstein
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 57
Legal career: Jeffrey A. Goodstein is running for Nassau County Court Judge. Goodstein has served as an acting justice of the Nassau County Supreme Court in the 10th Judicial District since 2012, appointed by Chief Administrative Judge A. Gail Prudenti. He also holds a position as a judge in the New York Court of Claims, appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2012 and reappointed in 2014. Goodstein earned his law degree from Touro Law School and has served in various legal capacities throughout his career. He is also an adjunct professor at St. John’s University School of Law.
Thomas Montefinise, a lifelong Oceanside resident.
A graduate of Hofstra University and CUNY School of Law, Montefinise’s career spans a range of roles, from repairing commercial kitchen equipment to practicing law in family, criminal, and matrimonial cases.
On the issues:
Senate DiStrict 6
Thomas Philip Montenfinise Party: Republican
A key issue driving Montefinise’s platform is the rise in crime across Long Island, which he attributes to the state’s controversial bail reform laws. The laws allows individuals charged with misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies to be released while awaiting trial. Montefinise sees flaws in the system.
“There’s a process. Everybody deserves a day in court, but you also need to give the tools to the prosecutors and police to get their job done,” Montefinise said.
He stressed that the erosion of trust in law enforcement can unravel the justice
system: “If people start feeling like they can’t call the police, the system falls apart.”
He is also focused on the struggles of Long Island’s middle class, whom he believes are being “squeezed out” by rising costs. He calls for smarter spending and resource allocation, pointing to ongoing challenges such as inflation and the influx of migrants.
“We need to raise wages and incentivize programs,” Montefinise said, emphasizing the need to reallocate funds rather than continually increasing spending. “We’re cutting money and spending it in all the wrong places,” he added, pointing to mismanaged state resources as a source of frustration.
“I’ve met a lot of people,” he said. “I’ve never done something like this before, but I’ve been hearing about the economy, prices of goods, inflation, and safety. It’s been an awesome experience.”
Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe is focusing on her extensive public service record and community values. Her career includes serving such as commissioner of the North Hempstead Housing Authority and on the Westbury Board of Education.
On the issues:
Siela
Bynoe highlighted significant county legislative accomplishments, such as the passage of the Ground Water and Public Supply Facts Report Law and the introduction of police body cameras in Nassau County. She stressed that these efforts are part of her broader mission to ensure Long Islanders’ concerns are prioritized in Albany.
Bynoe Party: Democrat
She aims to protect Nassau University Medical Center, which provides critical services but faced financial challenges earlier this year. Bynoe advocates for the development of housing options on NUMC’s campus, with a focus on workforce and senior housing to benefit the surrounding community and ensure
access to healthcare.
“There are opportunities there for senior housing, workforce housing, especially for folks who we want to ensure have access to health care,” she said.
She helped passed a county bill to study alternatives to traditional police responses to mental health crises, and she supports the expansion of wellness centers in schools.
“We should go to those community organizations, including schools, that can host those types of facilities on their campuses and have folks that are already doing the work, fund them, and go in and talk to the young people,” she said.
Bynoe seeks to advocate for the issues that matter most to her constituients
“Making sure that we have a voice — a strong voice in the Senate that really has a pulse on the issues and the concerns of Long Islanders,” she said.
Senate District 6 includes Baldwin, Freeport, Hempstead,Oceanside, Rockille Centre, Roosevelt, Uniondale amd West Hempstead.
Hempstead CounCil member distriCt 5
Chris Schneider, the newly appointed Town of Hempstead Councilman for the 5th District, is running in the November special election to continue his decades-long commitment to public service.
He was unanimously appointed to the board in August after the death of Chris Carini in July.
A Seaford resident and Wantagh High School graduate, Schneider’s career in government began in 2002, with roles in the Nassau County Legislature and the New York State Senate. He also held a senior leadership position at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
Schneider, 45, said replacing Carini was bittersweet, as Carini had been a close friend and collaborator for years. on the issues:
One of Carini’s legacies that Schneider is eager to support is the town’s Quality of Life Task Force, which addresses community issues such as
graffiti and illegal ads.
Schneider said he plans to expand and strengthen the task force, as he believes preserving a community’s appearance has a direct impact on residents’ quality of life.
Schneider has also represented Seaford on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Community Council since 2022, advocating for school safety, monitoring illegal smoke shops, and ensuring police stay responsive to community concerns. He supports the town’s efforts to remain fiscally responsible and says he is committed to finding ways to “do more with less” amid rising costs.
He emphasizes the importance of communication and accessibility. He has connected with local civic leaders, fire departments, clergy, and veterans’ organizations to understand their needs and ensure he’s available to address community concerns.
“I’m accessible if they have a problem,” he said.
Former Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams is returning to politics with a clear focus on making the Town of Hempstead more affordable for all residents.
on the issues:
The Democrat and Freeport resident, sees affordability as the town’s most pressing issue.
Abrahams, 50, served in the Nassau County Legislature for over two decades, where he said he helped stabilize the county’s finances and spearheaded infrastructure projects.
His time in office focused on keeping parks safe, maintaining roads, and ensuring that communities thrived. Now, his top priority is addressing the rising cost of living in Hempstead, particularly the lack of affordable housing for young people and middleaged families.
He expressed concern about the town’s recent $2 million tax levy increase, arguing that rising fees for services like pool passes, parking
permits, and sports leagues are unfairly burdening residents. He has vowed to scrutinize any proposed tax hikes and fiscal decisions to ensure they benefit taxpayers.
Abrahams also highlighted the importance of infrastructure, noting his past work in mitigating flooding in Freeport. He plans to focus on maintaining town roads and improving drainage systems to prevent flooding and disrepair.
He also said he wants to ensure that residents have access to essential services, like safe roads, well-maintained parks, and reliable public safety. His campaign aims to provide an alternative voice on the Town Board, advocating for policies that lower costs for residents.
“We cannot have a blind eye to what we do in the town, in regards to the increasing of tax or park fees or anything along those lines,” he said. “We have to lessen the burden, not add to it.”
Brian Curran, after serving in the Assembly from 2010 to 2018, returned to the Legislature in 2022, representing the 21st A.D.
During his earlier tenure, Curran was a key figure on several committees.
Previously he was mayor of Lynbrook and is admitted to practice law in New York and Connecticut, which he believes strengthens his legislative work.
On the issues:
Assembly District 21
Brian Curran Party: Republican
He is a proponent of the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Noting that its time and expectations are “unrealistic.” “Everybody wants clean water, air, environment. I think it was a bad plan with the best of intention’s, but it’s a bad plan.”
The measure addresses climate change to reach net zero emissions in the state. It sets the goals to reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and then to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.
He is concernd for what he called a surge of air traffic over his district, noting
the Federal Aviation Agency’s report of a fourfold increase. Curran said he supported legislation for a health study on airplane noise. He said that findings have yet to be released
Curran said he has advocated for increasing funding for school resource officers and has partnered with his village mayors to attain grants for upgrading school security systems.
An opponent of the congestion pricing plan that was halted by Gov. Kathy Hochul, Curran called an unfair burden on middle-class workers. While simultaneously saying that Hochul’s pause came after $200 million in tax dollars were spent.
He said he aims to continue supporting expansion the STAR exemptions, which help reduce school taxes for homeowners, especially seniors. He opposed the bail reforms that became law in 2018, saying that after four failed attempts to rectify the measure, judges should be give more discretion to determine whether bail should be set. “Public safety has to come first,” Curran said.
Judy Griffin is hoping to reclaim the 21st Assembly District seat Griffin narrowly lost the seat to incumbent Assemblyman Brian Curran in 2022 by 138 votes. Griffin initially defeated Curran in 2018, marking the first time a Democrat and a woman held the seat in 42 years.
On the issues:
During her tenure from 2019 to 2022, she secured over $8 million in funding for local services, including schools, libraries, and emergency services.
Judy Griffin Party: Democrat
She disagreed with fellow Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul on Hochul’s take about reimagining foundation aid, which would have cut more than $400 million statewide, leaving schools to face more than $230 million in proposed cuts.
Griffin said she would stress a more collaborative approach with state lawmakers, the governor’s staff and various stakeholders, and meet before legislative session begins in January.
She challenged the GOP view that bail reform created a “revolving door” for the convicted. She remains committed to ensuring equality in the legal system,
Griffin said she has worked closely with district attorneys and police unions in a series of revisions to help ensure the law appropriately categorizes non-violent offenses.
She noted her role in the Red Flag Gun Law, which aims to prevent people who pose a threat to themselves or others from obtaining firearms. A supporter of the proposed Prop 1 amendment, Griffin stressed that it not only affirms fundamental rights but also provides legal protections against discrimination of marginalized communities.
She said that housing is a great need, but needs to be addressed strategically, providing suburban municipalities the opportunity to weigh in. Collaboration and addressing disparities would help build a better future in Nassau County, she said.
Griffin has championed the creation of health and wellness with-in school districts in Baldwin and Freeport, which provide support for physical and mental wellbeing.
Assembly District 21 includes East Rockaway, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre, parts of Baldwin, and other nearby communities.
4th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT ELECTION ‘24
On the issues:
Anthony D’Esposito, a Republican and former NYPD detective, won the district in the 2022 midterm elections defeating Laura Gillen, and flipping the seat from Democratic to the GOP control for the first time in 25 years. He said he is working hard noting as there are 75,000 more Democrats in the district than Republicans.
Anthony D’Esposito Party: Republican
D’Esposito’s platform continues to emphasize affordability, increased funding for local schools, and opposes “cashless bail” policies, which he says have contributed to rising crime. He also suports eliminating the cap on state and local tax deductions.
D’Esposito noted his work to retun money to the district for water cleanup in Hempstead village and to mitigate flooding in low-lying South Shore communities, a majority of the district, including his hometown of Island Park. Along with partnering with local elected officials to make the communities more sustainable, considering the damage the area suffered after
Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
He said he is opposed to a federal ban on abortion.
On immigration he supported the House bill known as H.R. 2 that addressed issues regarding immigration and border security, including by imposing limits to asylum eligibility, but points to the Democratic-led Senate that did not put the measure up for a vote.
D’Esposito said he prioritizes public safety and said he strongly support Israel and Ukraine.
His re-election bid has been overshadowed by an ethics complaint. A Democratic action committee has accused him of hiring his fiancée’s daughter and a woman he allegedly had a personal relationship with for taxpayer-funded positions in his district office.
The allegations have prompted calls for an expedited investigation, though D’Esposito has denied any wrongdoing and views it as a personal, private matter.
Laura Gillen is mounting a campaign centered on supporting middle-class families, defending women’s rights, and tackling pressing social justice issues.
As a former Town of Hempstead Supervisor, Gillen made history in 2017 as the first Democrat to hold the office in over a century. Her tenure was marked by key accomplishments, including passing transparency reforms, modernizing the town’s digital infrastructure, and allocating over $59 million to repair local roads. She lost her re-election bid in 2019, but remained an active figure in Nassau County politics.
On the issues:
wake the Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade. She criticized D’Esposito’s support for anti-abortion policies, arguing that his stance is out of touch with the values of Long Island voters.
She said she stands strong stand against the rise of antisemitism, particularly in the wake of increasing incidents in schools, synagogues and on social media. Her action plan is aimed at combating hate, which includes leveraging federal resources to improve safety in schools, providing more protection for synagogues, and increasing oversight of social media platforms to prevent the spread of hateful content.
Gillen has made it clear that her campaign is focused on delivering for Long Island families. She has emphasized her commitment to reinstating the State and Local Tax deduction, a key economic issue for many county residents.
Gillen is a staunch advocate for reproductive rights, vowing to fight for the restoration of legal abortion in the
As a mother of four, Gillen said she brings a personal connection, emphasizing that she understands the challenges facing families in her district. She believes that her bipartisan approach as town supervisor, where she worked with a GOP-majority board, demonstrates her ability to get things done while staying true to her principles.
GENERAL ELECTION Candidates
Amendment to Protect Against Unequal Treatment
This proposal would protect against unequal treatment based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity and pregnancy. It also protects against unequal treatment based on reproductive healthcare and autonomy.
A “YES” vote puts these protections in the New York State Constitution.
A “NO” vote leaves these protections out of the State Constitution.
Enmienda para Proteger Contra el Trato Desigual
Esta propuesta protegería contra el trato desigual basado en la etnicidad, el origen nacional, la edad, la discapacidad y el sexo, incluida la orientación sexual, la identidad de género y el embarazo. También protege contra el trato desigual basado en la salud y la autonomía reproductiva.
Un voto “SÍ” coloca estas protecciones en la Constitución del Estado de Nueva York. Un voto “NO” deja estas protecciones fuera de la Constitución del Estado.
Democratic Electors
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente
Kamala D. Harris (For President)
Republican Electors
Tim Walz (For Vice President)
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente
Donald J. Trump (For President)
JD Vance (For Vice President)
Representative in Congress District 4
Representante en el Congreso Distrito 4
Laura Gillen (D,CS)
United States Senator
Senador Estatal, Distrito
Kirsten E. Gillibrand (D, WF)
Diane Sare (L)
ELECTIon
Vote for One (1)
Anthony D’Esposito (R,C)
Member
Vote for One (1)
Michael D. Sapraicone (R,C)
Hempstead
Miembro Kevan
Justice
Juez de la James Gregg Deanna Terence
ELECTIon’24
actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to reflect all the districts within the communities covered Specific candidates for individual communities are identified in blue. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the LIHerald.com under the Elections ’24 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com
Senator District 6
Estatal, Distrito 6
Bynoe (D) Thomas Philip Montenfinise (R,C)
Member of Assembly District 21
de la Asamblea Distrito 21
Griffin (D)
Vote for One (1)
Vote for One (1)
Brian Curran (R,C)
Hempstead Council Member District 5
del Concejo de Hempstead, Distrito 5 Vote for One (1)
Kevan Abrahams (D) Christopher Schneider (R,C)
Justice of the Supreme Court
la Corte Suprema (Vote for up to Eight) (8)
F. Matthews, Jr. (D,R,C)
Roth (D,R,C)
Deanna D. Panico (D,R,C)
Terence P. Murphy (D,R,C)
Alfred C. Graf (D,R,C)
Paul E. Hennings (D,R,C)
Paul M. Hensley (D,R,C) Andrew A. Crecca (D,R,C)
County Court Judge
Juez del Tribunal del Condado
Jeffrey A. Goodstein(D,R,C)
Family Court Judge
Juez
Lisa Daniels (D,R,C)
Chris J. Coschignano (D,R,C)
Joseph Nocella, Jr. (D,R,C)
District Court Judge District 2
Juez del Tribunal de Distrito
Andrea C. Phoenix (D,R,C) Veronica Renta Irwin (D,R,C)
Ryan E. Cronin (D,R,C) Sean Wright (D,R,C)
www.fullertonfhny.com
Town approves preliminary 2025 budget
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Town of Hempstead residents are expecting to pay more taxes next year — $5 more for those who live in villages, and $65 more for those who live in unincorporated areas.
The Town Board approved the preliminary 2025 budget on Oct. 1, adopting a $549 million spending plan, an increase of 4.9 percent. The tax levy will increase from $346 million to $389 million — a jump of over 12 percent that will far exceed the state tax cap of roughly 2 percent.
Town Comptroller John Mastromarino stated at a budget hearing on Oct. 15 that the town has managed to postpone tax increases over the past few years by utilizing reserve funds. But, he said, those funds are now running low, which is necessitating the tax increase.
“The town hasn’t had a tax increase in four years,” Mastromarino said. During that time, he added, the cost of living across the country increased by almost 28 percent, “and what we were doing was utilizing the reserves to protect our taxpayers,” Mastromarino said.
“The reserves were used, the taxpayers were protected, and it’s now at a point where we just can’t do it anymore,” he said.
Mastromarino said that the town used $22 million of reserve funds.
Where your tax dollars could go
School districts: 64 percent
Nassau County: 14 percent
Special districts: 10 percent
Villages: 7 percent
Towns: 4 percent
Cities: 1 percent
Before the budget hearing, community members rallied outside Town Hall, organized by members of the Nassau County Legislature’s Democratic caucus, who oppose the proposed tax increases. They accused the board of lacking transparency and failing to adequately inform the public about budgetary changes.
Attendees highlighted the already high cost of living that many residents are struggling with as they face the need to find additional funds to meet their tax obligations.
Former County Legislator Kevan Abrahams, who is challenging Republican Town Councilman Christopher Schneider to serve the balance of the term of Christopher Carini, who died in July,
spoke at the rally.
“There’s no transparency — there’s no visibility,” Abrahams said of the board’s budgeting process. “They try to do this in the cloak of darkness and they’re trying to squeak it past you. It’s called a sneaky weasel tax.”
In a letter about the budget proposal distributed among those who attended the hearing, Town Supervisor Donald Clavin stated that the spending plan was “fiscally responsible” and would enhance the town’s quality of life.
“Residents love the Town of Hemp -
Town Supervisor Donald Clavin addressed board members during a budget hearing on Oct. 15, at which they discussed the preliminary 2025 budget of $549 million.
stead, and for many good reasons,” Clavin wrote. “Our beaches, parks, and nature preserves are second to none. We have some of the finest restaurants, shops, and small businesses around. Our schools, athletic programs, community organizations, senior centers, and other public resources are among the best in the nation.
“This superlative quality-of-life experience paired with top-notch government services is what continues to make Hempstead Town a great place to live, work, and raise a family,” he added.
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STEPPING OUT
Get your scare on with Halloween-inspired shindig
Ghoul out with some festive merrymaking
By Karen Bloom
The countdown is now on to spooking and assorted revelry. The signs of that festive day are all around us as all those ghouls, witches and wizards look forward to Oct. 31.
So throw on a costume and act like a kid — with or without the kids. Transform your house into a spooky (or mildy spooky lair) with party tricks and Halloween treats. Set the scene with a mad scientist-themed sweets table and carry it home with a crazy good menu featuring frightfully yummy appetizers, some mocktails for the kids (and non-drinkers in your crowd) and, of course, treats.
Dress up the details: Many folks can’t wait to dress up for a Halloween party, but that’s not so for everyone. Don’t make costumes mandatory. Instead offer a table of accessories that anyone can borrow and use to alter their appearance. Goofy glasses, strange hats, adhesive mustaches, or masks can be fun.
Have fun with Halloween cuisine. Cookie cutters can turn sandwiches, desserts, biscuits — just about anything — into different shapes. Foods also can be made a tad more spooky simply by renaming them or presenting them in interesting containers. Beverages can be offered in jugs or old bottles and labeled “potions.”
Try these tricked-out treats for same tasty spooking.
Witches Finger Sandwiches
Entice guests into your lair with some witchy fingers
• 1 (11-oz.) can refrigerated breadsticks
• 6 small slices pepperoni
• 12 (2/3-oz.) slices cheese
• 3/4 cup finely shredded lettuce
Heat oven to 375°F. Separate dough into 12 strips. Place flat on ungreased cookie sheet; do not twist. With sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut 2 small triangles from one end of each dough strip to form a point that resembles a fingertip. Lightly score breadsticks in center to resemble knuckles. Cut each pepperoni slice into 2 pointed ovals to resemble 2 fingernails. Place 1 pepperoni piece on each breadstick.
Bake at 375°F. for 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. If necessary, reapply “fingernails” with small dot of ketchup.
puffs to resemble ghosts onto the remaining baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven until dried and firm, about 1 hour. Turn off the oven, close the door, and cool until completely dried, about 1 hour more.
Dip the tip of a toothpick into melted chocolate and dot chocolate “eyes” on each of the ghosts.
Spiderweb Cheesecake
Snare your guests with some spider web cheesecake. Use your favorite 9” cheesecake recipe.
Topping:
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup milk, cream, sour cream or ricotta cheese
Web:
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chunks or chips
First, make your favorite 9” cheesecake, one using a graham cracker crust. Add 1/4 cup black cocoa to the crust, before pressing it into the pan. Bake the cake as directed; remove from the oven, and let it cool.
To make the topping: Whip the heavy cream with the sugar just until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the sour cream just until combined.
Spread the topping over the cooled cheesecake.
Rock the Dock
Ambrosia, John Ford Coley and Peter Beckett (The Voice of Player), come together for a magical night performing all of their 1970s and ‘80s Billboard Top 40 Hits, on the Tilles Center stage, 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.” 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.
Friday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
‘Old Time Rock’
Split each breadstick. Cut each cheese slice into strips and place in breadstick, overlapping strips. Top each with lettuce. If desired, serve with mustard, mayonnaise or ketchup. Serve warm or cold. Note: Place leftover small triangular dough pieces on cookie sheet; bake until crisp. Use as croutons or nibblers.
Spooky Bones and Ghosts
Chase the demons away with a few “bones.”
• 2 large egg whites
• 2 drops fresh lemon juice, or more to taste
• 7 tablespoons white sugar, or more to taste
• 2 chocolate chips, melted, or as needed
Preheat oven to 225°F. Line 2 baking sheets with silicone baking mats.
Whisk eggs whites and lemon juice together in a bowl until thick, white, and foamy. Add sugar a spoonful at a time, whisking constantly, until meringue is shiny, thick, and holds its shape.
Transfer meringue to a piping bag. Pipe 12 bone shapes onto a prepared baking sheet. Pipe 12
To make the chocolate web: Heat the cream until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate and stir. The chocolate will begin to form one mass. Keep stirring until all the chocolate has melted — the cream should be hot enough to melt all the chocolate. If not, reheat briefly.
Transfer the melted chocolate to a piping bag fitted with a small tip (or a zip-top bag with one corner cut to form a 1/8” opening). Pipe one central dot onto the cream topping, then six concentric circles around the dot, spaced 1/2” apart.
Beginning with the center circle, gently pull a toothpick through all the circles toward the outer edge. Wipe the toothpick clean and repeat, moving clockwise and dragging the toothpick through at every eighth segment of the circle to complete the web pattern.
Peter Lemongello, Jr., the son of Long Island’s legendary star, returns to the Landmark stage. He takes his audience on a nostalgic musical journey from the 1960s through the’ 80s with his “Old Time Rock ‘N Roll” show. Accompanied by his eight-piece band, Peter delivers an engaging performance that evokes pure emotion. He continues to honor his father’s legacy — Peter Lemongello was the first artist to sell over a million albums on TV, through an innovative TV commercial campaign that paved the way for music video infomercials and MTV. A special highlight is Peter Jr.’s heartfelt tribute to his father, performing the hit “Do I Love You,” written by Paul Anka, which his Dad debuted on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.”
Friday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or by contacting Gene DiNapoli at (917) 567-5842.
Your Neighborhood Dog Days Weekend
THE
America
The perennial classic rock favorite is back on the road again as founding member Dewey Bunnell celebrates the band’s 54rd anniversary, appearing on the Tilles Center stage, Saturday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m. Billed as “Ride On Tour 2024, will draw on the band’s deep catalog of hits including signature song “A Horse With No Name,” a Number One hit on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1972. Bunnell and America’s co-founder Gerry Beckley (along with former band mate Dan Peek), who met in high school in London in the late 1960s, quickly harmonized their way to the top of the charts on the strength of that tune. Forty plus years later, these friends continue to make music together (although Beckley has now retired from touring) thrilling audiences with their timeless sound. Yet beyond their impressive catalog of hits, listeners discovered there was always much more to America than surface perceptions. The combination of Beckley’s melodic pop rock and Bunnell’s use of folk-jazz elements, slinky Latin-leaning rhythms and impressionistic lyric imagery contrasted well with Peek’s more traditional country-rock leanings and highly personal lyrics.
On their way to becoming a global household name, America’s journey found them exploring a wide variety of musical terrain. Their best-known tunes, including “I Need You,” “Ventura Highway,” “Don’t Cross The River,” “Tin Man,” “Lonely People,” and “Sister Golden Hair” were beloved as cornerstones of 1970s Top 40 and FM rock radio. From their formative years, America has been a band capable of transcending borders with its uplifting music and positive message. Embracing a rainbow of divergent cultures, America’s audiences continue to grow, comprising a loyal legion of first, second and third generation fans, all bearing testament to the group’s enduring appeal. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
‘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, oct. 25, also 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 SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.
Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), Saturday and Sunday, oct. 26-27, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. With dog parade and costume contest on Sunday, 3-5 p.m. Prizes awarded to best dog costumes, including Prettiest, Most Handsome, Most Original, Best Duo or Group, Funniest. Costume contest participants must register. Advance ticket purchase for weekend events required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048.
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.
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.
In concert
Musical quintet Sybarite visits Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center, Friday, Oct. 25 , 7:30 p.m.
The ensemble is known for bridging genre gaps to bring unexpected musical combinations together to create unique, dynamic concert experiences. Equal parts passion, grit, and musical ecstasy, it’s an intoxicating cocktail of genre-breaking artistry expressed through the virtuosity of violinists Sami Merdinian and Suliman Tekalli, violist Caeli Smith, cellist Laura Andrade, and double bassist Louis Levitt.
The group is constantly evolving, defying categorization, and keeping audiences on their toes. Tickets start at $35. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. Visit Adelphi.edu/pac for tickets and information or call (516) 877-4000.
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. $12; NCC students free $10 veterans,
NUMC lends a hand to North Carolina’s Helene victims
Nassau University Medical Center hosted a heartfelt deployment on Oct. 8, as it prepared to send a medical relief team to North Carolina in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene.
The hurricane ravaged the southeastern United States, but inland North Carolina — particularly communities in and around Asheville — was one of the hardest-hit areas, suffering widespread destruction. Flooding from torrential
rains submerged homes and businesses, while powerful winds downed trees and power lines, leaving thousands without electricity. Coastal communities elsewhere, like in western Florida, were severely impacted by storm surges, and many areas were left inaccessible due to road damage.
Hurricane Helene has resulted in several hundred deaths across multiple regions, with many more people still unaccounted for. Emergency services have been overwhelmed, with local hospitals and clinics struggling to meet the demand for medical care.
In response, NUMC is sending a team of 15 dedicated professionals, including EMTs, Environmental Services workers, nurses, and doctors, along with three fully equipped vehicles. Their mission is to provide vital medical assistance and deliver essential supplies such as medical equipment, food, water, clothing, and even pet supplies to the affected
This relief effort reflects NUMC’s strong commitment to aiding those in crisis, ensuring that the people of North Carolina receive not only the medical care but also the resources that are des-
— Jordan Vallone
NUMC employees packed supplies and food into the truck. A team of 15 volunteers traveled nonstop to North Carolina, beginning on Oct. 8.
Public Notices
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530
8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. 9 Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher: Richner Communications, Inc., Stuart Richner, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530. Editor: HERNESTO GALDAMEZ, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. Managing Editor: JEFF BESSEN, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530.
10. Owner: Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau; Clifford Richner, 2 Endo Blvd, Garden City 11530; Stuart Richner, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530.
11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds,
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
Mortgages, or Other Securities: None.
12 Not applicable.
13. Publication Title:
BALDWIN HERALD.
14. Issue Date for Circulation
Data Below: SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a. Total No. Copies: Average No. Copies
Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 3400; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 3500.
b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 7 ; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 8. (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 459; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 459. (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, and Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 1140 Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 1181. (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 0; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published
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, 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
Nearest to Filing Date, 0.
c. Total Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 1606; Actual No.
Copies of Single Issue
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 1648 d. Free or Nominal Rate
Distribution( by Mail and Outside the Mail) : (1) Free or Nominal Rate OutsideCounty as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 495; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 564. (2)Free or Nominal In-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 213; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0 (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other classes Mailed Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 0; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0. (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 400; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 500. e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 1108; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 1064. f. Total Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 2714;
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.
Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property
SUPPLEMENTAL
SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises:
Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 2712. g. Copies Not Distributed: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 686; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 788. h. Total: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 3400; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 3500.
i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 59.17%; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 60.77%.
16. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the October, 24, 2024, issue of this publication.
17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Stuart Richner, Owner; Date: October 1, 2024. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material information requested on the form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). 1275278
To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
566 STOWE AVENUE, NORTH BALDWIN, NY 11510
Section: 36, Block: 402, Lot: 453 & 454
To the above named 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 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
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
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 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
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 is hereby given that SEALED BIDS for:
BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
INTERIOR ALTERATIONS
SED No.
28-02-10-03-6-023-011
Contract G - General Construction
Contract P - Plumbing Work
Contract M - Mechanical Work
Contract E - Electrical Work will be received until 11:30 am. prevailing time on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the Baldwin Public Library, located at 2385 Grand Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510, at which time and place where all bids received will be publicly opened and read and where the identity of all offerers will be publicly disclosed.
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
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
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
Complete digital sets of Bidding Documents, drawings, and specifications may be obtained online beginning November 6, 2024 as a download at the following website: melville.h2mplanroom.co m.
Complete Digital Sets of bidding documents, plans and specifications, may be obtained online as a download at the following website: melville.h2mplanroom.co m for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) for each combined set of documents. Plans and Specifications, may be obtained from Revplans, 28 Church Street, Unit 7, Warwick, New York 10990, upon deposit of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) for each combined set of documents. Checks or money orders shall be made payable to BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY, checks should be sent directly to REV plans. Bidder’s deposit will be refunded if the set is returned to REV in good condition within thirty (30) days following the award of the contract or the rejection of the bids covered by such plans and specifications. Non-bidders shall receive partial reimbursement, in an amount equal to the amount of the deposit, less the actual cost of reproduction of the documents if the set is returned in good condition within thirty (30) days following the award of the contract or the rejection of the bids covered by such plans and specifications. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Please note REVplans (melville.h2mplanroom.co m) is the designated location and means for distributing and obtaining all bid package information. Only those Contract Documents
Walk to End Epilepsy brings together hundreds
Foundation raises over $95K
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Walkers from near and far came together in East Meadow on Oct. 19 for the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island’s Walk to End Epilepsy in Eisenhower Park.
The foundation, part of the EPIC Long Island Family of Human Service Agencies, is based in East Meadow, with headquarters on Hempstead Turnpike.
Along with the foundation, the EPIC family also includes EPIC Long Island, which helps individuals with special needs and disabilities, and the South Shore Guidance Center, a mental health and behavioral clinic. The nonprofit’s name stands for “Extraordinary People In Care” — and the breadth of its services has grown out of its work with the epilepsy community, over the last six decades.
The Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island offers educational resources, free of charge, to individuals with epilepsy in need of information, referrals for doctors, or advocacy in various sectors of their life. It also provides generalized informational programs for the public to learn more about seizures and epileptic conditions.
“We provide education, we do training and certification for people in seizure safety, seizure first response,” Lisa Burch, the chief executive and president of EPIC family, said of its epilepsy branch, “reaching thousands of people annually, providing support, guidance, resources and information.”
Irene Rodgers, the associate executive director of development and epilepsy services with EPIC, explained that the likelihood of witnessing someone having a seizure is remarkably high — and not always caused by epilepsy, a brain disease that triggers seizures, or episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
“One in 10 people will experience a
Public Notices
obtained in this manner will enable a prospective bidder to be identified as an official plan holder of record. The Provider takes no responsibility for the completeness of Contract Documents obtained from other sources. Contract Documents obtained from other sources may not be accurate or may not contain addenda that may have been issued. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at melville.h2mplanroom.co
m . Plan holders who have paid for hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use and coordinate directly with REVplans for hardcopies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge of registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. Bids must be made in the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications, bids
must be enclosed in sealed opaque envelopes bearing the name of the job and name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to:
BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY, ATTN: ELIZABETH OLESH, 2385 GRAND AVENUE, BALDWIN, NY 11510 , clearly marked on the outside: Bid For: Interior Alterations. The Library is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Baldwin Public Library, as well as of improper hand delivery.
Each proposal submitted must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY, in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the
bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract. Certification of bonding company is required for this bid, see Instructions for Bidders section. Each bidder shall agree to hold his/her bid price for sixty (60) days after the formal bid opening.
A pre-bid conference and walk through is scheduled for Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 9:00 am at the project site. Potential bidders are asked to gather at the Main Entrance, at which time they shall be escorted to all areas of work.
Although not mandatory, it is highly recommended that all potential bidders attend.
It is the Board’s intention, and it reserves its right to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, providing the required security who, to the Board’s satisfaction, meets the experience, technical, budget and all
specification requirements and has references and responses from references that are deemed acceptable by the Board. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or alternatives, to waive any informality and to accept such bids, or portions thereof, or alternates, or alternatives which, in the opinion of the Board, are in the best interests of the Library.
The Board of Trustees reserves the right in its discretion to reject all or any part of any bid and to re-advertise for new bids in accordance with Section 103 of the General Municipal Law. By Order of the Board of Trustees
Public Library 2385 Grand Avenue Baldwin, NY 11510 149607
seizure in their lifetime,” Rodgers said. “It’s very important to know what to do when you see someone having a seizure, recognizing the signs and symptoms of seizures, and then also how to help a person after they have had a seizure.”
Some people experience a seizure and are quickly able to continue normal life activities, while other seizures require medical attention, Rodgers said.
“There are so many other types of seizures and syndromes,” she said. “Some are very subtle. It could be where someone is appearing to just daydream and not be aware of their surroundings, and then they’re right back to whatever they are doing. So, seizures can have a wide range of symptoms — they can have a wide range of impact on the individual and their day-to-day functioning.”
Because the foundation’s services are free, Rodgers said they rely heavily on donations and fundraising activities — and the organization’s largest one is its annual walk, held in Eisenhower Park. Through the walk, the foundation aims to raise $100,000 and spread epilepsy awareness. As of press time, the foundation had raised just over $95,000 from this year’s walk, which signed up more than 550 people.
This year’s grand marshal was Natalee Weiss, a 16-year-old from Locust Valley who’s had epilepsy since she was 5. She decided to get involved with the Epilepsy Foundation, after seeing an advertisement for the walk in her local library several years ago, she told the Herald. A junior at Locust Valley High School, she’s a member of the PreHealth Club, for teens interested in pursuing careers in medicine.
“It’s been a challenge living with epilepsy,” Weiss said, “but with the help and support of EPIC Long Island, I’ve
learned to accept it. Honestly, it’s helped me learn that there are other kids too who are also living with epilepsy.”
Of the walk, Rodgers said, “People can see there is such a sense of community, which oftentimes people who are living with epilepsy feel alone, isolated. When everyone comes together in the park, it’s just a great feeling — a feeling of community, of support.”
Two years ago, Weiss traveled to Washington D.C. to take part in a program called Teens Speak Up, with the Epilepsy Foundation of America. The conference brings together teens living with epilepsy, family members and local Epilepsy Foundation office staff, to visit the nation’s capital, receive advocacy training, and meet with lawmakers to share their experiences and discuss issues that are vital to the epilepsy community.
Over the last few years, Weiss said she’s seen the walk grow — which is a great thing. “I feel like there’s a lot more people that show up now, which I am so happy to see,” she said. “It is definitely a bigger event, and I feel like we’ve been able to get this great group of people together to really advocate for such an important cause.”
The EPIC family offers many services to Long Islanders, and despite its various sectors, everything is connected, Burch said.
“You might come to us as a person with epilepsy, looking for resources, but if you’re struggling with mental health — we have that too,” she said. “There’s this wholeness to what we do, and I think that’s what makes us really special and unique.”
To learn more about the Epilepsy Foundation and contribute to this year’s donation campaign, visit EPICLI.org, and hit the Epilepsy Foundation tab.
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
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OUTSIDE SALES
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PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators
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What can we do with our Helene-damaged home?
Q. Our home in Asheville, North Carolina, was damaged by Hurricane Helene. The insurance company was contacted, and several busy contractors have looked at the property as they passed by. One commented that many homes need to be completely rebuilt, because they’re missing parts that protect them from hurricanes, such as “tecos.” What are tecos, and why do they make a difference? Can they be added without tearing our house down? This may push us to just sell, as is, and move on, at a large loss. What can we do?
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A. . First, Teco is a brand name for metal connectors that hold lumber building parts together, giving any home greater resistance to being pulled apart by wind. Unfortunately, the company went out of business in the 1990s. It’s a brand name, not a generic term — it’s like saying Kleenex instead of facial tissue. But the name stuck, and is often used by people who have no idea that you can’t get a Teco anymore, but it’s easier than saying joist hanger or connector.
The most-used brand today is Simpson, which is far more sophisticated, for a much wider variety of engineered connections. The key word is “engineered,” and I emphasize it because most users of these products often use the wrong connectors for the wrong purposes. For example, your home, if it’s not completely in splinters, can be saved, but you have to use the right connectors, utilizing manufacturer charts and selecting the right ones based on wind resistance calculations. I’m sure I just lost most readers, because almost nobody actually calculates, or desires to respect, the right use of the right connector, so people go to the store and buy a box of what looks best, what is most available or what costs the least.
While filming the documentary “Hell or High Water,” which never got released due to lack of funding, I got to meet with officials, from (the equivalent of) the mayor to the head of the building department in Moore, Oklahoma, after third-graders were killed in their concrete elementary school by the fastest winds ever recorded, 313 miles per hour. The neighborhood was gone. People were rebuilding. I questioned why building permits were issued and yet nobody was using the connectors to reconstruct. The superintendent of the building department answered with frustration, knowing that it’s a code requirement, that “most people can’t afford the cost of the connectors.” Nine years later, I saw an article about the state of Oklahoma now strictly enforcing connector requirements.
You don’t have to walk away from your home. The base and top of the wall studs, the roof rafter connections and the corner hold-downs can be retrofitted, which will give you additional wind resistance of approximately 30 mph, and as a nationally certified damage assessor, I have seen firsthand that the right connectors save property and lives. Good luck!
2024
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes,
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Law school bonds formed decades ago are still strong
Few possessions in life are more valuable than lasting friendships. I’ve been more than blessed with friendships that began almost 60 years ago, when I was a student at Notre Dame Law School, and remain strong all these decades later. That was clear when we got together again at Notre Dame last week. I entered Notre Dame in 1965. From my home in Queens to the campus in South Bend, Indiana, was about 800 miles by car. In life experience, the distance was light years. I had no clue what to expect. My life up to then had been almost entirely confined to Queens, where I grew up; Brooklyn, where I went to high school and college; and Manhattan, where I was born, and where, during my last two years of college, I worked loading and unloading trucks and freight cars at the Railway Express Terminal on 10th Avenue. My out-of-state ventures had been limited to New Jersey: a two-week summer rental when I was 9, a handful of one-day visits to relatives and two nights at Palisades Amusement Park. In
New York, I took the ferry once to Staten Island, made the occasional trip to Jones Beach and journeyed to the Bronx for a handful of Yankees games and once to watch the football Giants practice at Fordham. I had never eaten in an actual restaurant, my dining experience limited to White Castle and pizza joints.
The Notre Dame campus was as impressive as advertised, with its famed Golden Dome glistening in the Indiana sun and more trees and manicured grass than I’d seen anywhere except Central Park. The law school was a three-story Gothic structure that radiated seriousness of purpose. I opted to live in Fisher Hall, the graduate student dorm, rather than an off-campus apartment mainly for convenience: It was a two-minute walk from the law school and next door to the dining hall.
had gone away to college, and I had no idea what dorm life was like.
C atching up with four longtime, far-flung friends from Notre Dame.
We were all willing to work together and help one another out — very different from the cutthroat competition at many law schools. That was a great defense against the dean of the law school, who took pride in the number of first-year students who flunked out or bailed out. His welcoming greeting to us had set the tone: “Look at the man on your left and the man on your right. Before long, one of you won’t be here. And damned be he who first cries, ‘Enough, enough!’”
Fortunately, the six of us survived the dean’s first-semester bloodletting, with Ward and Weiss doing exceptionally well and the rest of us doing well enough.
Rosemary, who was a student at neighboring St. Mary’s, during my first semester, and her becoming an integral part of our group. We got married at the start of my final semester before graduation.
After graduation, everyone did well: Manning in Chicago, Ward in Maine, Curtin in New Jersey, Weiss in St. Louis and Bonenberger in West Virginia. Though we were many miles apart, we stayed in close contact over the years, including at five-year class reunions, even holding weekly Zoom meetings during Covid.
Then, last summer, Manning, who was in many ways our magnet, died, and we decided to have our own minireunion. So last week we were together again in South Bend.
Most important, the law students living around me in Fisher Hall were great guys. Dick Manning, Tom Curtin, Tom Ward, Charlie Weiss and Lanny Bonenberger became lifelong friends. For the most part we all had similar upbringings, Catholic school-educated. Every one of us except Ward, whose father was a doctor, was the first in our family to go to college. And every one of the others
Why
For the past year, politicians and political commentators have described the upcoming election as the most consequential in American history. To be realistic, all elections have consequences, but there is no doubt that this one will have a dramatic impact on my family, and countless others, for years to come. With less than two weeks to go until Nov. 5, I am weary from the back-and-forth discussions I have had with family members, friends, neighbors, and political allies and adversaries. Happily, all of those talks have been cordial, and it has been worthwhile to listen to all opinions. These exchanges have better prepared me to explain why I will vote for Kamala Harris for president. Before explaining the basis for my vote, I need to rebut some of the arguments that I have heard from supporters of Donald Trump. Some have made the claim that Harris is “anti-Israel.”
Sometime in the spring of our first year, there was a climactic power struggle between the dean and the Rev. Theodore Hesburgh, president of the university, over the starting date for the law school in the fall. Their grand compromise was to give the dean his starting date, but to throw the law students off campus. It was my first experience as collateral damage! But the six of us found a house to rent in South Bend, and our friendships grew stronger than ever. Adding to all this was my meeting
There were changes. Fisher Hall and the house we rented have been demolished. The law school building is many times larger than it was. But among us, nothing had changed. We walked the campus, reliving good memories, retelling old stories, talking about our children and grandchildren. We were thankful for our bonds of friendship, which had been forged in another century and have grown only stronger over seven decades. A great gift.
Go, Irish!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
I’m voting for Kamala Harris
They point to the fact that then-President Trump moved the American embassy to Jerusalem, but they have not offered any proof that as a candidate, Harris has failed to support Israel. She has shown her unhappiness with its prime minister, but Benjamin Netanyahu is not Israel.
itrust her, and believe she is the best choice for challenges both at home and abroad.
Three months into the election madness, some people tell me they “don’t know enough about Kamala.” I view that as an excuse not to vote for a woman. My response to them is, “Where does Trump stand on abortion, child care tax cuts, more housing opportunities for people of modest means and tax breaks for middleincome families?”
I frequently hear people describe the vice president as “too liberal.” They reference her former support for Medicare for All and her past opposition to fracking. Harris has modified her positions on a number of issues, as has Trump’s vice presidential nominee, J.D. Vance, who is now in lockstep with Trump — after once calling him a “Hitler.”
I choose Harris over Trump for a
number of reasons. I trust her, and believe that she will be an honest president. I don’t believe that she will make private deals with campaign donors, or craft laws that will favor a handful of wealthy donors like Elon Musk. Above all, she won’t lie, lie and lie some more at every opportunity.
Thanks to President Biden’s hard work, America has the respect of world leaders once again. NATO is once more a united force in Europe, and the only firewall we have against Russia and Vladimir Putin. Harris will be a strong supporter of NATO and Ukraine. That will make our country safer. She will uphold our alliances with Asian nations and oppose China’s efforts to harm Taiwan.
Harris will appoint qualified people to major positions in her cabinet, and has pledged to seek bipartisan advice on key issues. There are countless thought leaders in America who would gladly give their time to the government if they thought their views would be respected. Above all, she will not sell out the nation to domestic or foreign
interests.
Harris will protect a woman’s right to choose. She has pledged to reinstate Roe v. Wade, and will appoint judges to the Supreme Court who will protect women’s rights. She will appoint an attorney general who will follow the Constitution, and be the people’s lawyer and not the president’s lap dog.
Harris will maintain our support for Israel. She has seen the powerful support that Biden has provided, including his latest pledge to give Israel guided missiles and U.S. military support to back them up. She will honor those commitments.
Rather than recite the reasons why I do not support Trump, I’ll defer to America’s top generals, who have called him dangerous and unfit to be commander in chief. To add to their opposition, I could further quote all of Trump’s former cabinet members who oppose his re-election.
Enough said.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
Fax: (516) 569-4942
HERALD
Don’t miss your chance — get out and vote
as we approach a pivotal election that portends high political drama, there’s never been a better time to stress the importance of voting. Every vote counts, and participation is more than a right — it’s a crucial responsibility that shapes this nation’s democracy.
This is not about whom to vote for. It’s about making the most of the privilege of voting.
Early voting is now underway in parts of the country, and in the state of Georgia, the turnout has already made headlines. On the first day of early voting, more than 300,000 Georgians cast their ballots — more than double the number who voted that day in 2020.
That could signal the beginning of another record turnout for the presidential election. Four years ago, both eventual President Joe Biden and the incumbent, Donald Trump, garnered the most votes ever in a presidential election. Biden won with some 81 million.
The heightened enthusiasm, to put it most politely, for next month’s election underscores why every eligible voter should make his or her voice heard.
This year, Election Day falls on Nov. 5, but early voting provides flexibility for those who may not be able to vote on that day. In New York, early voting gets under way this Saturday and ends on Nov. 3.
Early voting gives voters the chance to skip the long lines and cast their ballots at a time and place that is convenient for them. It’s a safeguard against last-minute emergencies or unforeseen obstacles that might occur on Election Day.
The surge in early voting is a promising sign for democracy, but it also sends a larger message about civic engagement in today’s highly charged political climate. Voting is one of the most direct ways individuals can influence the policies that shape their lives.
Whether the issues voters are focused on are health care, education, the economy, social justice or abortion access, the winning candidates, and measures on the
New York state elections are all about the major parties
To the Editor:
As New York voters prepare for the Nov. 5 elections, it is apparent that candidate choices are limited now more than ever. The Herald Roundtable articles, for example, are limited to coverage of Democratic and Republican candidates. The anti-democratic impact of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s electoral “reforms” has become abundantly clear
■ Oyster Bay Ice Rink
■ Elmont Public Library
Early voting locations
1001 Stewart Ave., Bethpage, NY 11714
700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont, NY 11003
■ Floral Park Recreation Center 124 Stewart Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001
■ Freeport Recreation Center 130 East Merrick Rd., Freeport, NY 11520
■ St. Paul’s Recreation Center 295 Stewart Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
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■ Hofstra University 1000 Fulton Ave., Hempstead, NY 11549
■ Hicksville Levittown Hall 201 Levittown Pkwy., Hicksville NY 11801
■ South Shore Jewish Center 191 Long Beach Rd., Island Park, NY 11558
■ Lawrence Country Club 101 Causeway, Lawrence, NY 11559
■ Long Beach City Hall 1 West Chester St., Long Beach, NY 11561
■ Massapequa Town Hall South 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa, NY 11758
■ Temple Beth Am 2377 Merrick Ave., Merrick NY 11566
■ Nassau County Board of Elections 240 Old Country Rd., Mineola NY 11501
■ Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park, NY 11040
■ Plainview Mid-Island Y JCC 45 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview, NY 11803
■ Port Washington Library 1 Library Dr., Port Washington, NY 11050
■ Rockville Centre Recreation Center 111 N. Oceanside Rd., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
■ Gayle Community Center 53 Orchard St., Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
■ Syosset Public Library 225 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Syosset NY 11791
■ Valley Stream Presbyterian Church 130 S. Central Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580
■ St. Francis De Chantal Church 1309 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh, NY 11793
■ West Hempstead Public Library 500 Hempstead Ave., West Hempstead NY 11552
■ Yes We Can Community Center 141 Garden St., Westbury, NY 11590
■ Williston Park American Legion 730 Willis Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596
ballot, will help determine the future of those issues. By casting your vote, you become part of the collective decisionmaking process that steers the direction of the country.
For those who feel disillusioned or disengaged, it’s important to remember that democracy works best when it’s fully inclusive. Every election offers the opportunity to hold public officials accountable, to approve or reject ballot measures, and to influence the future of local, state and national policies.
When large numbers of people opt out of the process, fewer voices shape the policies that affect everyone. Voting is a way to speak up, even when the system feels
letters
with this year’s elections in our state. Having made it virtually impossible for independent third-party candidates to appear on the ballot, drastically changing longstanding ballot access laws and regulations in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, this fall we find ourselves with only Democrats and Republicans listed on our ballots. In a manner similar to what Republicans have done elsewhere, New York Democrats have suppressed the vote and stifled meaningful political debate on the issues that face us all. We urge Gov. Kathy Hochul
imperfect or frustrating. By casting your vote — whether early or on Election Day— you are exercising a power that should never be taken for granted. “My vote doesn’t matter” is simply not the case. So if you can’t vote on a busy Tuesday, Nov. 5, make a plan to do so between now and the Sunday before Election Day. Or take advantage of the time you still have to register to vote and request an absentee ballot. Be part of the conversation, have a say in the issues that matter to you, and help ensure a future that reflects the will of all Americans.
Voting isn’t just a privilege; it’s a duty that upholds the foundation of our democracy. Your voice matters. Let it be heard.
and the State Legislature to reverse these draconian changes to our election law as soon as possible. New Yorkers deserve more voter choice, more democracy.
Thanks to the Cuomo “reforms,” New York is the only state to have just two candidates for president appearing on the ballot. This has happened in only one other state in the past 40 years, Oklahoma. Many voters now feel faced with two unsatisfactory choices: a candidate who is engaged in sowing pernicious and deadly seeds of ethnic and ideological conflict, and another who
The unequal burdens of a broken tax system
the Town of Hempstead, commonly called America’s largest township, recently voted to impose a historic tax levy on its nearly 800,000 residents.
Town Supervisor Donald Clavin says the 12.1 percent levy is a necessary and “fiscally responsible” decision to help maintain the cost of administrative services such as health insurance, pensions and garbage removal.
Under the town’s proposed budget, residents of incorporated villages such as Freeport, Garden City and Rockville Centre would pay an extra $5 per year — while homeowners in unincorporated communities like Baldwin, Roosevelt and Uniondale would have to pay $65 extra annually.
Such a stark contrast raises the question, why are some homeowners paying more taxes than others? Is everyone paying their fair share, or are there disparate tax burdens from one homeowner to the next? How can the town justify a mind-boggling 1,200 percent difference in tax payments between residents of villages and unincorporated hamlets?
Last month I wrote an op-ed for the
supports wars and continuing our nation’s complicity in an ongoing genocide.
The Green Party urges all progressive voters to write in “Jill Stein” in this year’s election. Don’t stay home, and don’t waste your vote!
JIM BRoWN Chair, Green Party of Nassau
County Island Park
Kremer summed up Trump, but there’s more
To the Editor:
In his oct. 10-16 column, “A historic election for all the wrong reasons,” Jerry Kremer presents several compelling reasons to reject Donald Trump’s “desperate campaign” for president.
But voters should consider other factors as well. Conservatives, in particular, ought to ask whether Trump adheres to three principles they surely hold dear: family values, law and order, and patriotism.
Do Republican parents really want their children to view this potential president as a role model? Should kids
Herald that explored the possibility of Baldwin becoming an incorporated village. Among many other responsibilities, village incorporation would give Baldwin the power to regulate its taxes, including generating much-needed revenue through sales and property taxes.
Many Baldwin residents reacted positively and with genuine curiosity to the essay, while others reflexively dismissed the idea for one primary reason — the age-old fear of higher taxes. But if our taxes are already increasing, why not welcome the opportunity to control them on our terms?
properties’ worth based on their market value. Assessment rolls list public information for the county’s residential and commercial properties. In Nassau, property assessments are managed by the Assessment Review Commission, a responsibility that is unique among counties in New York state.
Y our bill is way different depending on where in Nassau County you live.
The ugly truth is that whether you live in the Town of Hempstead or an unincorporated area of Nassau County, homeowners across Long Island face unequal tax burdens.
Before we go any further into tax disparities, we must note the fundamental difference between taxes and assessments. Taxes are fees outlined in budgets determined by school boards, town boards, county legislatures, village boards and special districts. Property taxes, in particular, have been described as the “lifeblood” of local governments. In Nassau County, roughly 60 percent of property tax revenue is earmarked to fund public schools, with the rest used to finance public services.
Assessments are calculations of
seek to emulate a philanderer and a vulgarian incapable of telling the truth?
How do those professing to “back the blue” square that stance with support for a convicted felon? Is someone charged with racketeering and 51 other criminal offenses a credible champion of the rule of law?
Are red-white-and-blue all-Americans oK with a candidate who orchestrated the attempted overthrow of the country’s constitutional order? Does denigrating members of the U.S. armed forces demonstrate love of country?
Trump defiles all three of the values most Americans regard as sacrosanct.
This is not to say that Kamala Harris is without personal flaws of her own. She’s imperfect, both as a candidate and a human being. Besides, voters should be assessing a candidate’s policy positions, not only his or her personal behavior. And Harris’s record and her proposals can be fairly criticized from a conservative perspective.
But character does matter. And on that score, Donald Trump is utterly unqualified to hold the nation’s highest office.
KEvIN J. KELLEY Atlantic Beach
In 2021, the county comptroller’s office published an audit in which it called the county property assessment system fundamentally “broken.” Democratic and Republican lawmakers have sparred for decades over who is to blame and how to fix the problem. But little attention is paid to the disparate fiscal impact and hardship some Long Island property owners face as a result of flawed and failed policies.
Take the property assessment grievance system, for example. Each year, tax grievance firms flood our mailboxes with urgent notices promising to win homeowners big tax refunds. In Nassau County’s property assessment sweepstakes, however, there are clear winners and losers due to a practice known as “tax shifting.”
According to the comptroller’s audit, roughly 70 percent of property assessment grievances — also known as appeals or challenges — were granted reductions. Between 2012 and 2019, grievance firms billed residential prop-
erty owners over $500 million for their representation in reducing assessed values, the audit found.
But here’s the catch: When a property owner successfully appeals their assessment and gets a refund, the tax burden doesn’t disappear. Tax rates are adjusted, and the cost simply shifts to the next property owner who fails to grieve their assessment.
Nassau is the only county in the state that is both responsible for property assessment review and liable for taxpayer refunds. Whatever property tax revenue the county generates, the gains may likely be offset by grievance settlements. As one elected official previously put it, “A refund gets paid by taxpayers one way or another. The question is merely who pays.”
Historically, county and Town of Hempstead officials have made decisions — for example, to freeze taxes — that have proven more politically convenient than financially prudent. This is only the tip of the iceberg in highlighting an entrenched, flawed and, yes, broken tax system. To create a fairer and more equitable one, we need more tax literacy and transparency. Elected officials at every level of government must work diligently to revise broken policies that allow disparities to persist.
Karl A. Valere is chief of staff and senior policy adviser to Assemblyman Khaleel M. Anderson. He lives in Baldwin. Contact him at karlcaresnewyork@ gmail.com.
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.