Baldwin Herald 12-12-2024

The Christmas season is here

The Baldwin Chamber of Commerce kicked off the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 8. Story, additional photos, Page 10.

Training for the Colgate Games

Baldwin’s Kaylyn Sutherland is entered in 200-meter dash

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Ten-year-old Baldwin Middle School sixthgrader Kaylyn Sutherland will compete in the 49th Colgate Women’s Games, beginning later this month.

The annual event is the nation’s longest-running indoor amateur track and field series for girls and women. Girls as young as first grade can participate, and the event runs from Dec. 29 through Feb. 1 at the Nike Track & Field Center at the Armory in Manhattan.

Kaylyn registered for the competition last month with her father, Kimarley Sutherland. She

admitted feeling a mix of nerves and excitement when she walked through the Armory doors. She also got a glimpse of the track she would eventually run on.

Kaylyn has competed in track since third grade, but she is too young to run for the middle school team. In the meantime, she runs for the Our Lady of Lourdes Church team in nearby Malverne.

There, she discovered, through words of encouragement from her coaches and teammates, that she was good, which prompted her to sign up for the Colgate series. Qualifications for the games include being enrolled in school and

Uniondale-based organization

to Baldwin

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Baldwin residents can further embrace the holiday spirit by taking part in a Christmas cookie decorating party at Coes Neck Park on Saturday.

Mrs. G’s Brown Bag Charity, a Uniondale-based, grassroots organization that originated during the coronavirus pandemic, will host the party starting at 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The driving force behind the charity organization is Ebony Guerrier, a Uniondale resident who is a PTA member and paraprofessional at Smith Street School.

Initially created to help the community stay connected during a time of uncertainty, Mrs. G’s has since expanded beyond its original community.

“I started out in Uniondale, however, I feel like I like to broaden it to the surrounding communities,” Guerrier said, “to invite other communities into a positive event. Something that the kids have an

opportunity to have fun during the holidays and celebrate together.”

Events that she has previously hosted include its annual Trunk or Treat and Breakfast with Santa. Coes Neck Park, at 1240 Coes Neck Road, was selected as the site of the organization’s Mother’s Day celebration in 2022. That event brought mothers together to celebrate the holiday, while also offering an opportunity to create “vision boards” where participants could share their goals and aspirations. Saturday’s Christmas cookie decorating party will provide children with the opportunity to personalize their cookies, choosing from a variety of ingredients and decorations, along with a fun sticker craft project. The event will feature music, fresh pizza and juice, all for a $20 fee.

Guerrier said that the money to fund the group’s events comes out of her pocket, or from the donations and sup-

Continued on page 9

Maureen Lennon/Herald

NUMC announces $1.06 billion suit against state Hospital alleges ruse to mislead federal government

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The Nassau Health Care Corporation and Nassau University Medical Center say they intend to file legal claims against New York state for $1.06 billion, plus interest, for withholding Medicaid payments that the hospital says it is entitled to.

It should shock every taxpayer.

According to notice-of-claims documents distributed to reporters at a Nov. 20 news conference in the lobby of the East Meadow hospital, a disproportionately large share of patients served by NUMC are eligible for Medicaid. NUMC is one of three public hospitals in New York that serve all patients, regardless of their ability to pay for medical care.

StEVE COhEN Attorney

Because of the large number of Medicaid patients, the hospital receives federal funding through the Disproportionate Share Hospital program and the Upper Payment Limit program — both Medicaid programs authorized under the Social Security Act. In order to receive payments from the federal government, states — in NUMC’s case, New York — must contribute their assigned share, commonly referred to as the state share or non-federal share, to hospital funding.

Typically, the state share matches the federal contribution.

According to the notice-of-claims documents, in 2024 NUMC was due to receive DSH payments totaling roughly $100.2 million.

The federal share of the DSH payments was half of that total, around $50.1 million, which was transferred to the State Department of Health for distribution. The state was required to provide the other $50.1 million from either state funds or local contributions. The state was then required to combine the federal and non-federal shares and wire the total to NUMC.

The documents allege that the state orchestrated a ruse to mislead the federal government by requiring NUMC to front the state’s contractual share of the DSH funds from its own operating account. As a result, NUMC received only half of the DSH payments it was entitled to, because the state required the hospital to fund its own non-federal share.

The hospital is alleging that is has been a victim of similar schemes since at least 2001. Over the past 23 years, NUMC has received approximately $1.08 billion from the federal government in DSH payments, but has not received a total of roughly $1.06 billion in non-federal shares.

“What New York state did is not just deliberate financial deception,” Steve Cohen, an attorney representing the hospital, said. “It risked the future of a

hospital that is dedicated to our area’s most at-risk people. It should shock every taxpayer.”

Cohen told reporters after the news conference that the hospital is required to notify the state attorney general’s office of its intentions, so the state has time to prepare for legal proceedings. When additional litigation is filed, information about the case will be made public, Cohen added, and all legal proceedings will take place in New York’s Court of Claims.

“We are continuing to work with Nassau County on an appropriate solution for the future of NUMC,” Gordon Tepper, the Long Island press secretary for Gov. Kathy Hochul, emailed in a statement to the Herald. “Our concerns are the fiscal health of the hospital and patient care.”

At a special meeting on Nov. 18 of the Nassau Health Care Corporation board, which oversees the operations of NUMC and the A. Holly Paterson Extended

Care Facility in Uniondale, the board authorized a contract with two law firms, Susman Godfrey LLP and Pollock and Cohen, to provide legal services to the health care corporation. The contract amount, at a contingency rate based on collections and additional funds, is not to exceed $325,000, according to the meeting’s agenda, which is posted on NUMC’s website.

According to Richard Kessel, the chairman and director of the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority, a public-benefit corporation that monitors and oversees the county’s finances, NIFA must approve hospital contracts over $50,000.

“We’re required to approve the law firm contracts that they voted on a few days ago,” Kessel said. “We put them on notice that those contracts should be submitted to NIFA, and that no money should be spent until we’ve reviewed and approved them.”

According to the state, if NIFA does

The hospital is alleging that the state has withheld $1.06 billion in Medicaid payments the hospital is entitled to. Meg Ryan, NUMC’s interim president and chief executive, said that the state’s policies are depriving the hospital of resources it needs to be financially stable.

Legal details

■ Nassau Health Care Corporation and Nassau University Medical Center are pursuing a legal claim against New York state for $1.06 billion

■ The hospital system claims the state orchestrated a ruse to withhold Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital payments that the hospital was entitled to

■ The state says it remains concerned about NUMC’s fiscal health and patient care

not approve the contracts, the law firms cannot be paid for their services. Asked about that possibility, Cohen told reporters that he hoped the finance authority “does the right thing.”

“You shouldn’t be retaliating against the people who are trying to uncover the wrongdoing,” he said.

The hospital has been under fire for years, accused of financial mismanagement, but this year NUMC has made significant strides toward recovery, receiving positive audits and upgraded safety ratings from a variety of organizations. Matthew Bruderman, chairman of the Nassau Health Care Corporation board, attributes much of the hospital’s recovery to the work of Meg Ryan, NUMC’s interim president and chief executive, and her leadership team.

“As we prepare to initiate litigation, the facts will reveal that the state of New York deliberately violated federal law, depriving this hospital of the resources it needs to be financially sustainable,” Ryan wrote in a news release. “NUMC is a lifeline for Nassau County’s most vulnerable residents. The state’s financial misconduct has hurt this institution and the people it serves. Today marks the beginning of holding the state accountable and ensuring this community gets the resources it deserves.”

Jordan Vallone/Herald photos

Matthew Bruderman, chairman of the Nassau County Health Care Corporation board, spoke at a news conference on Nov. 20, detailing Nassau University Medical Center’s intention to file a lawsuit against New York state.

Reduce Your Cancer Risk by Eating Healthy

Learn to make healthy, low-cost meals through our free online cooking series led by Karla Giboyeaux, a registered dietitian at MSK.

Point your smartphone camera at the QR code and tap the link to find festive recipes for the holidays, including a red meat-free version of Pastelón.

by Susan Jeffers

Emerson said, “Fear defeats more people than any other one thing in the world.” Conquering fear then is essential to one’s personal and professional growth. To do this you need a tool and this classic book, first published in 1987 and updated in 2012, provides just such a tool — for living better, more fulfilling lives.

The list of fears is endless and author Jeffers touches on the most common ones providing a prescription for moving from pain, paralysis and depression (fear’s “sisters”) to power, energy and excitement.

It may seem overly simple but we learn that at the bottom of every fear is simply the fear that you can’t handle whatever life may bring you. If you knew you could handle anything that came your way you would have nothing to fear. The author shares techniques for diminishing your fears by developing more trust in your ability to handle whatever comes your way.

While it may sound like a revelation to some, you cannot wait until the fear goes away.

It only goes away by doing the thing you are afraid of. The “doing it” comes before the fear goes away.

Fear is natural and inevitable, especially fear of the unknown. People interpret fear as a signal to retreat. Author Jeffers teaches how to see fear as a green light to move ahead. “All you have to do to find a way out of your selfimposed prison is to retrain your thinking”. Since everyone feels fear when approaching something new in life, and yet so many are “doing it” despite the fear, it proves that fear itself is not the problem. It is how we hold the fear. For some it is irrelevant — they hold the fear from a position of power (choice, energy and action). For others, the fear creates a state of paralysis, holding fear from a position of pain, helplessness and depression, knowing they “can’t handle it”. Jeffers stresses that pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness.

Crime brief

Baldwin man arrested for alleged assault

Karlhentz Louissaint, 29, of Baldwin, was arrested Dec. 2 in connection with an alleged assault.

According to Nassau County police, officers responded to a disturbance at a residence on Bonnie Drive. Police said Louissaint was acting “irat” and began to attack officers.

Two officers were injured during the arrest and were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Louissaint was charged with menacing, criminal mischief, assault, resisting arrest, and criminal possession.He was arraigned Dec. 3 at First District Court in Hempstead.

Crime watCh

Petit LarCeny

Robert Rodriguez, 43, of Roosevelt was arrested for allegedly stealing a bicycle at Dawes Avenue in Roosevelt on Nov. 24 at 2:54 a.m., according to Nassau County police.

CriminaL misChief

Stephan White, 30, of Roosevelt was arrested for alleged criminal mischief at KB Deli, 315 Nassau Rd., in Roosevelt on Nov. 11, according to Nassau County police.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

dent and United States Army veteran John Kenny

Rosary Ladies Auxiliary Recognition of Veterans Event on

Roosevelt.

&

Karlhentz louissaint

Courtesy Town of Hempsteadt

Hempstead Town Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby recognized Baldwin resi-

during the Queen of the Holy

November 17, 2024 in

— Part One

Fostering friendships while competing

Continued from page 1

being able to participate in the preliminaries.

“I feel like it would be a great experience for me,” Kaylyn said. “This is my first time going to the Colgate Games, and I feel like it’ll be a good experience for me to try.”

For nearly 50 years, the event has promoted athletic and academic excellence for young girls and women, giving them a platform to showcase their talents and build confidence. Nearly 2,000 athletes participated in the last two events, and the series’ alumnae include Junior Olympians, national champions and Olympians, with many competitors returning year after year.

The event will return to its tradition of being held indoors, as the last two events were held outdoors at DaSilva Field Track at St. John’s University due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Kaylyn will compete in the series’ Middle School division, which includes events from the 100 meters to the shot put. But she has her eyes on the 200-meter dash. Training for the distance requires a combination of speed, power and endurance. She told the Herald that last week, she began working on drills with her coaches and teammates, while also reviewing video footage of previous races to fine-tune her technique.

Her preliminary heat in the Colgate competition will take place this month on Dec. 29 and Jan. 5, 2025. The semi-finals will take place on Jan. 19, with the finals on Feb. 1.

She has come to enjoy not only the intensity of competition, but also the way the sport fosters friendships, even among competitors. That was what made her realized why she loved running.

“I remember one time I was at a track meet, and this other girl from another team was so nice to me,” she recalled. “It doesn’t matter if you want to win or not — you can still make friends.”

Baldwin middle School sixthgrader Kaylyn Sutherland will compete in the 49th annual Colgate Women’s games, which will take place from dec. 29 through feb. 1.

Courtesy Baldwin school district

Hofstra seeks success in conference play

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra women’s basketball is looking to provide the doubters wrong in the Coastal Athletic Association.

The Pride was picked to finish 12th in the 14-team league’s preseason poll after a 3-15 CAA season last year in which five e conference losses were in single digits. Hofstra returns five players from last year’s 11-21 team that caught fire at the end of the 2023/24 season to win two games in the CAA Tournament and reach the quarterfinal round and is looking to build off of that postseason run this winter.

“We know we’re better than that but just to say we know we’re better than what we are perceived at or expected to be is not enough,” said fifth-year head coach Danielle Santos Atkinson. “You’ve got to go and be better and go and show people that you’re better and you’ve got to go and prove that you’re capable of more and that’s where we are as a team now.”

After a hard-fought 63-58 season-opening loss to Sacred Heart, Hofstra responded with back-to-back wins against NJIT and Yale to provide some early-season confidence for the new campaign. The Pride improved to 3-5 on the young season with a 55-52 home win against Howard last Sunday.

Among the key returners determined to propel Hofstra toward its first winning season in nine years is junior guard Emma Von Essen, a Rockville Centre native who was the Pride’s leading scorer last season and knocked down 85 threes. The Long Island Lutheran product is off to another explosive start this season averaging 12.8 points per game so far with 24 threes.

“She’s just so consistent and that’s one of the things that we really appreciate about Emma is she’s going to be Emma every single day, and she’s not trying to do someone else’s job,” Santos Atkinson said. “ She works extremely hard and she knows what she does well, and she tries to do that every single time to the best of our ability.”

Santos Atkinson also returned graduate student center Zyheima Swint, who was the team’s fourth-leading scorer last year and led the team in rebounding. Zyheima Swint registered 14 points in a 75-61 victory against Yale on Nov. 12.

Hofstra also added a number of key newcomers aiding the Pride early this season.

Junior guard Chloe Sterling is the leading scorer through eight games after transferring from James Madison University. The Kennesaw, Ga. native earned CAA Player of the Week honors after tallying a careerhigh 21 points in a 74-69 win at NJIT on Nov. 8.

Freshman forward LaNae’ Corbett is showing promise early in her collegiate career by averaging 10.5 points per game including 15 in the Sacred Heart game to go along with 13 rebounds. She led Hofstra with 17 points in the Howard victory.

“The sky’s the limit for her,” said Satos Atkinson of Corbet, a mechanical engineering major who shined at one of the nation’s top-ranked high school girls basketball programs at Bishop McNamara in Maryland. “She’s one of the most consistent freshmen that I’ve coached in terms of her work ethic and how she shows up.”

Santos Atkinson pieced together some challenging non-conference games to prepare for CAA play that included a Dec. 2 trip to her alma mater the University of Florida where Hofstra trailed in single digits

at halftime to the SEC school before falling 75-48. The Pride will also host Big East foe St. John’s on Dec. 11. The CAA schedule commences on Jan. 3 at Monmouth and Jan. 5 at Delaware before the Pride host its league home opener on Jan. 10 against College of Charleston for a 6 p.m. tipoff. Hofstra concludes the conference schedule at home on March 6 against Long Island rival Stony Brook at 6 p.m. and a Saturday matinee versus Northeastern on March 8 at 2 p.m.

“Two things that we talk about to be successful this year for us is we’ve got to be the most competitive team in the CAA and we’ve got to be the most selfless team in the CAA, and I think we are capable of doing both of those things,” Santos Atkinson said. “And then we’ve got to compete through adversity through the good times and the bad.”

Chloe Sterling, a transfer from James Madison, provides a boost to the Pride’s roster.

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications L.I. Lutheran product and Rockville Centre native Emma Von Essen was Hofstra’s leading scorer last season.

Nominate a student under 16 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

We want to hear about the extraordinary young individuals who are driving change in their communities.

The award will be presented at the 2025 LI Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island powered by Reworld in February.

Your nomination could inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps!

Submit a nomination of approximately 200 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

Laura Gillen reflects on congressional win

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Election Day was a whirlwind of excitement for Laura Gillen, the newly elected Democratic representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District.

“Election days are always very exciting, and a little bit nerve-racking as you wait for the results to come in,” she said.

Gillen, a former Hempstead town supervisor, was joined by her family and campaign team as the polls closed and the results began coming in. She said that once she felt confident enough in the numbers, she declared victory over the incumbent, U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito.

“I was pleased to declare the win, and so pleased to have the opportunity to represent the people of the district,” she said.

The victory capped a remarkable comeback for Gillen, who lost a bid for the congressional seat to D’Esposito in 2022.

Reflecting on the success of her 2024 campaign, she attributed her triumph to listening, communicating and articulating the needs of her district. “I spent the campaign really focusing on the race and the district,” she said. “The message really did resonate.”

Gillen credited her campaign’s success to its strong outreach efforts, which struck a chord among local voters.

“We had a much more robust field program than we had in 2022,” she explained. “We spent a lot of time knocking on doors and pounding the pavement to make sure voters knew the issues at stake.”

She also highlighted her team’s use of television

and digital platforms to broaden their message.

In preparation for her move to Washington, Gillen was invited to Capitol Hill for a congressional orientation. “It was really exciting,” she said. “It really brings it all home.”

The orientation, she said, gave her an opportunity to connect with members of Congress from both parties, which she indicated would be essential to passing important legislation starting in January.

“It was wonderful to also meet my future colleagues,” she said. “We’re in the minority, but the majority is a very narrow majority.”

Her visit to the Capitol also came with an unexpected highlight: Gillen drew the coveted No. 1 spot in the office lottery for incoming freshmen.

“I went in with a spirit of gratitude, thinking, you get what you get,” she said.

Much to her surprise, she secured an office in the recently renovated Cannon House Office Building. Although her office is still under construction, she is confident that it will be ready by the time she takes office.

At the local level, Gillen said she is still evaluating whether to maintain her current campaign office or establish a new space for constituent services, which would ensure accessibility for district residents.

Looking ahead to congressional committee assignments, she said the process is still unfolding, but her priority is clear.

“I want to serve on a committee where I can best deliver for the residents of the district,” she said.

Gillen will officially be sworn in on Jan. 6, 2025.

“I am looking forward to working in Washington to deliver results for this district,” she said.

Courtesy Laura Gillen

U.S. Rep.-elect Laura Gillen attended congressional orientation on Capitol Hill in Washington on Nov. 12.

Grassroots group aspires to be a nonprofit

port of friends, family and the community. Even though Mrs. G’s is not an official nonprofit, the organization is evolving because the need is there, she said.

“We’re aspiring to be a nonprofit,” she said. “The community has supported and the response is amazing.”

“A lot of people around the neighboring communities, as well as our community, have been looking forward to different events,” Guerrier said. “They’re excited because there’s a lot of events that happen out East, and in Nassau there’s not too many.”

During the pandemic, she began her charitable endeavors by organizing a food and clothing giveaway in the summer of 2020 at Randall Park in Freeport, while following the Covid safety protocols that were in place. The event inspired her to create a Facebook group called “Recipe Swap for the Quarantine,” in which friends and family could share recipes while staying at home.

Also that year, Guerrier began hosting events and organizing collections in Uniondale. One of the events was a Halloween Trunk or Treat at Uniondale Avenue Park, which has since become an annual tradition, and this year the group partnered with the Smith Street School PTA.

The connections and momentum she built through the Facebook group became the driving force behind the launch of her

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K is looking for...

Courtesy Ebony Guerrier

mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity will host a Christmas cookie decorating party at Coes neck park in Baldwin on Saturday. the uniondale-based organization previously held a mother’s day event at the park in 2022.

Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosts tree lighting

The Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its festive annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 8, celebrating the Baldwin community’s holiday spirit.

The event featured an array of family-friendly activities, including a performance by members of Hangout One Happy Place, Pat’s Dance Studio and charming pony rides for children.

The highlight of the evening was a special visit from Santa Claus, who made his grand entrance aboard a Baldwin firetruck, spreading holiday cheer to all in attendance. The event was an opportunity for families and friends to come together, share in the season’s joy, and create lasting memories. The tree lighting itself illuminated the heart of Baldwin, marking the official start of the holiday season for the community.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Maureen Lennon/Herald photos

Members of Hangout One Happy Place performed their dances, with Angela Lucas leading the way.

Pat’s Dance Studio, located in Baldwin, showcased holiday performances by its dance groups for attendees.

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus were joined by the Baldwin PAL Cheerleaders

Town of Hempstead Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby presents a citation to Baldwin Chamber of Commerce President Victor Sookdeo with the Baldwin Girl Scouts.

What is upcoming at Baldwin Public Library?

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

This holiday season, Baldwin Library offers a variety of events for all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment, creative activities for kids, or festive music performances, there’s something for everyone to get into the spirit of the season.

Holiday Music Concert

For those who appreciate live music, the Sunday Music Holiday Concert on Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. features Stringtopia, the Long Island Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra. The group will perform a selection of holiday classics, along with a variety of music from different time periods and genres. This afternoon concert offers a relaxing way to enjoy the sounds of the season. Tickets are required and can be obtained at the Adult Reference Desk starting Nov. 11.

Toys For Tots Drive

The Baldwin Library is participating in the Toys For Tots Drive*, which will run through Dec. 19. This is an opportunity to give back to the community and spread holiday cheer to children in need. Donations can be dropped off at the library, and your generosity will help make the holidays brighter for many families.

DIY Wooden Ornament Worksho p

On Saturday, Dec. 21, children in grades 3 through 6 can unleash their creativity at theWooden Ornament Workshop. From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Community Room, kids will have the chance to paint and decorate their own wooden ornaments. Whether they want to

add a personal touch to their holiday décor or make a gift for someone special, this event is sure to be a fun and festive way for young artists to get into the holiday spirit. Registration opens on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 9 AM.

Dancing Golden Retrievers Show

On Saturday, Dec. 28, dog lovers are in for a treat with the Dancing Golden Retrievers Show. Starting at 2 p.m. this interactive event is perfect for children ages 3 and up, along with their parents or caregivers. The talented golden retrievers will perform a variety of tricks and dances, showcasing their skills and charm. After the performance, attendees will have the opportunity to take pictures with these friendly and talented dogs. Registration for this event begins on Monday,

Dec. 16, so don’t miss out on this paws-itively delightful event!

Family Film: Inside Out 2

On Friday Dec. 27, the Baldwin Library will screen Inside Out 2, a heartwarming continuation of the beloved Pixar film. Rated PG and running for 100 minutes, this family film explores the emotions of a young girl as she faces new challenges and changes in her life. The event will include free refreshments, available while supplies last, making it a great outing for the whole family to enjoy a cozy movie afternoon. It’s a perfect way to wrap up the holiday season with a feelgood film for all ages.

Herald file photo

Baldwin Public Library will host a variety of events throughout the month of December for library patrons of all ages.

BALDWIN

Leaders bring communities together

By Renee DeLorenzo

At this year’s annual Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island Awards, hosted by RichnerLIVE on Nov. 20, Long Island’s top officers proved that leadership is much more than just calling the shots. Being a leader comes with a lot of responsibility, and it means a little something different to everyone who serves in such a position. But one thing is certain: No one can do it alone.

Nearly 300 people gathered at the Heritage Club at Bethpage to celebrate excellence in leadership. Representing a wide range of industries including health care, education, utilities, nonprofits and finance, the group of business influencers came together for a night of honor and recognition.

Michael Dowling, CEO of Northwell Health and this year’s recipient of the prestigious Trailblazer Award, stepped on stage to a wave of applause, and spoke about the health care industry and what it means to come together as a community. “I don’t think there’s any substitute for being in a room together as a collective, because you share and you learn,” Dowling said.

For the other honorees at the ceremony, bringing communities together is vital to their success. Ross Turrini and Jim Flannery, of National Grid and National Grid Ventures, respectively, shared those sentiments. Being a leader, they said, means focusing on the people they serve.

For Turrini, chief operating officer of National Grid’s New York gas operations, that means communicating honestly. “You’ve got to be able to have honest communication and conversations,” he said. “Not only with your employees, but with policymakers, legislators, our customers, and folks in the community who you serve. You have to be able to build trust.”

Flannery, COO of National Grid Ventures, U.S. Northeast, said the very reason he was there was because of the community he has built at the company. “The nomination is really a reflection of the people I work with,” he said, adding that his role at the company is forming a workforce that feels like family. “A leader needs to be one who cares about people, listens to people, who can galvanize people around a cause,” he said.

Diane Walsh and Gurjit Singh, of Prager Metis, said that the reason they were there was the amazing people they are privileged to work with daily.

Walsh, chief marketing officer of Prager Metis, said, “I think it’s really important for the community, not only for personal recognition, but for recognition of the firm and everybody we work with every day. They all make us the top chiefs.”

Singh, Prager Metis’s chief information officer, agreed, saying the recognition goes beyond his accounting firm. The acknowledgment of everyone else in the room, Singh said, was just as important. “I think everyone’s deserving — no one’s really above or below,” he said.

The connection between leadership and community was evident throughout the night. The idea that personal recognition is only possible because of the communities top officers serve is a tenet of the best leadership. “It’s all about having good people around you,” Dowling said. “It’s not about an individual situation. It’s about who you put around you. You prove that you’re smarter when you hire people smarter than you.”

He added that success is about the relationships with the people he works with, the people he serves, and the people he meets who share these values, such as those at the Heritage Club that night. “Everyone is going to leave here better than they did when they came in because of the relationships they’re making,” he said.

Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications and publisher of Herald Community

Media, noted the importance of bringing the leaders together and recognizing the value of what they do. “Leadership is about more than reaching goals,” Richner said. “It’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change in the organizations and communities we serve. The individuals we honor tonight exemplify

that spirit, making Long Island a better place for all.” A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the Michael Magro Foundation, which supports children with cancer and other pediatric illnesses.

For a full list of sponsors and honorees, go to RichnerLive.com/2024TCOA.

Tim Baker/Herald photos Guests network during the cocktail hour.

Keynote speaker and President of Northwell Health, Michael Dowling gives the keynote speech.

Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Health Care Stacey C. Jackson-Harley, RN MA.

Amit Shah, Senior Vice President of Prine Health (left) poses with Stuart Richner Chief Executive Officer of Richner Communications (right).

Guests listen to keynote speaker, President of Northwell Health, Michael Dowling.

BALDWIN HERALD — December 12, 2024

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Joseph Verdirame, Chief Executive Officer, of Alliance Healthcare poses with his award.

Christina Armentano Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Paraco.

Chief Marketing Officer, Prager Metis, Diane Walsh.

Randell M. Bynum, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Nassau County.

Ross Turrini, Chief Operating Officer of New York Gas National Grid.

Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP Managing Partner, Howard Stein and Marketing Director Mojan Masuomi.

Nicole W. Joseph, MSc, Chief Operating Officer & Finance Director of CM Law PLLC.

Lisa Burch President and Chief Executive Officer of EPIC Long Island, Inc.

Chief Operating Officer, Guardian Bus Company, Michael Tornabe.

Chief Information Officer, Prager Metis, Gurjit Singh.

Oceanside students launch ‘Project Prom’

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Three determined Oceanside High School seniors are on a mission to ensure that prom—a night to celebrate milestones and create memories before embarking on life’s next chapter for many high school students—is accessible event for all, regardless of financial circumstances. Through the initiative, “Project Prom,” students Ava Stutz, Arianna Soshkin, and Isabella Santamarina have set out to collect prom dresses and accessories for underprivileged teens in the surrounding communities.

The inspiration for “Project Prom” came after Stutz’s mother saw a news story about a similar drive. Recognizing the financial burden that prom places on families— ranging from tickets and limousines to the ever-important dress—the girls decided to act.

“I feel like, we’re surrounded by areas that have places that may be under the poverty line and we thought it was a good idea to consider our geographics,” Soshkin said.

The initiative is part of a DECA community giving project, which challenges students to create meaningful, service-oriented endeavors. For the trio, “Project Prom” was the opportunity to blend their passion for service with a chance to compete in DECA’s state-level events in March.

The students began by setting the goal of collecting at least 100 dresses. They organized drop-off locations at the Oceanside Library and the Rockville Centre Recreation Center throughout November, where they welcomed donations of dresses, shoes, bags, jewelry, and

for plus size people and I feel like our society isn’t always so inclusive, so I feel like it’s helping larger girls.”

To keep everything organized, they used Google Forms to track each donation. The team also promoted their drive through various channels, including an Instagram page, a video shared by the Oceanside Library, and posts in local Facebook groups. Ava’s mother, a teacher in Rockville Centre, used her network to spread the word even further.

“I feel like this is a really unique project,” Stutz said. “I feel like I’m going to be most proud about helping out the girls and seeing the smile on their faces.”

championing excellence.

browsing and trying on dresses for the day. To ensure the event reaches those who need it most, the students are reaching out to schools and community organizations in nearby towns.

“We’re working with coordinators and board members from schools in Baldwin and Freeport to spread the word and invite students who might benefit,” Ava added.

The students are also documenting their journey as part of their DECA project compiling a 20-page paper, complete with promotional materials, QR codes for their online platforms, and photos of the donation drive. This paper will serve as the foundation for their presentation at the DECA State Career Conference in Rochester next March.

They’re great students and leaders,” said DECA coordinator Michael Lowry. “That’s why they’re doing such great things and involved in the community and giving everyone a chance to take part in prom,”

As they prepare for the December 14 event, the students are hopeful that their efforts will have a lasting impact. For these girls, “Project Prom” is about much more than collecting dresses; it’s about fostering a sense of community and empathy.

“I think this is something really good that we’re doing for the community, and just knowing that I was able to help someone who before this had to miss out because of their financial situation, I feel better knowing I could help someone,” Santamarina said.

Donations are still being accepted until Dec. 7. Community members can drop off dresses, shoes, bags, and accessories at designated locations, including the Oceanside Library and the Rockville Centre Recreation

Courtesy Oceanside School District

Legislators push ‘Gio’s Law’ for EpiPens

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Nassau County police officers could become front-line defenders against severe allergic reactions if legislation proposed by Legislator Seth Koslow becomes law. The bill would require patrol vehicles to be equipped with epinephrine auto-injectors, or EpiPens, and require officers to be trained to administer them in emergencies.

The bill was unveiled at a Dec. 5 news conference in Mineola, where Koslow, a Democrat from Merrick, was joined by local officials and advocates, including Georgina Cornago, whose son, Giovanni Cipriano, died in 2013 of a severe allergic reaction. Legislators Delia DeRiggiWhitton, Debra Mulè and Scott Davis were also in attendance.

Following her son’s death, Cornago led efforts in 2019 to pass Gio’s Law in New York state. It authorizes certain New York emergency service providers to be trained to treat anaphylaxis and carry EpiPens in their vehicles. The law previously mandated EpiPen training and stocking for first responders in counties with populations of less than 1 million, but it was recently expanded to counties with populations of up to 2 million — which means it can now be implemented in Nassau County.

Jordan Vallone/Herald

Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow spoke at a Dec. 5 news conference about a bill that would require police department patrol vehicles to carry EpiPens, which are administered to those who have life-threatening allergic reactions.

Suffolk County adopted Gio’s Law in 2023.

“This bill will save lives,” Koslow said at the news conference, “because it will give police officers the ability to provide life-saving treatment in an emergency situation. We trust them when it comes to Narcan. We trust them when it comes to CPR. This is a natural

progression, and a natural tool for them to have in their arsenal to provide the resources we expect them to provide on a day-to-day basis.”

Cipriano, who lived in Lawrence, was 14 in 2013, when he went into anaphylactic shock after eating a food he was allergic to. He didn’t have an EpiPen at

the time, so his mother drove him to the hospital, which took too long, leading to his death.

Police department ambulances in Nassau County are equipped with EpiPens, but patrol cars aren’t — and by putting them there, the lifesaving care could be more accessible in emergencies.

“This legislation has been nearly 12 years in the making,” Cornago said. “Its importance cannot be overstated. Just as AED machines have become standard in public spaces, it only makes sense to have epinephrine injectors readily available alongside them as another essential lifesaving device.”

If it passes, the bill will direct the Nassau County Police Department to equip all patrol vehicles with EpiPens within 120 days, and ensure that all officers receive the necessary training to administer the medication.

“The training is about 30 minutes long,” Koslow said. “As far as obtaining the EpiPens, it’s just a function of putting the order in and getting them delivered. They’re readily available.”

Koslow explained that food allergies affect 32 million people in the U.S., and over 1,500 people die every year as a result of food allergy reactions.

The legislators are requesting a vote on the bill before the final legislative session of the year, next Monday.

$50,000 grant for Baldwin food pantry

Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé announced that the food pantry at the St. Christopher’s Roman Catholic Church in Baldwin is set to receive a $50,000 grant to support its hunger-fighting food ministry.

The Legislature’s Rules Committee voted unanimously on Nov. 13, to approve the release of American Rescue Plan Act,

“During the pandemic and in its aftermath, food insecurity has been one of the most heartbreaking effects, and no community has been exempt from this challenge,” Mulé wrote in a news release. “For years, the food ministry at St. Christopher’s has done outstanding work to meet

the needs of the Baldwin community and neighboring areas, and a $50,000 influx of resources will have a monumental impact on its ability to combat hunger. I am gratified that the Rules Committee has approved this grant and am hopeful that it will receive similarly unanimous approval from the full Legislature on Nov. 20.”

The grant will provide support to the St. Christopher food pantry, which serves individuals and families struggling with food insecurity in Baldwin and surrounding communities.

— Hernesto Galdamez

L et us K now

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ommunity Newspapers is

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Herald file photo

St. Christopher’s Roman Catholic Church will receive a $50,000 grant for its food

STEPPING OUT

sparkles on local stages

A festive tradition that always delights

By Karen Bloom

‘Tis the season when Sugar Plum Fairies and various figments of a young girl’s imagination come alive. The beloved holiday confection is forever in style.

New York Dance Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ New York Dance Theatre offers its 42nd season of the holiday classic, presented in the style of the legendary George Balanchine, returning to the John Cranford Adams Playhouse stage at Hofstra University. This production wraps up the company’s celebration of its 50th anniversary on Long Island.

NYDT closely follows the George Balanchine tradition — from storyline through choreography, sets and costumes. It’s the largest production on Long Island, according to Artistic Director and NYDT alumna Nicole Loizides Albruzzese. Her version keeps to the tone set by the company’s founder Frank Ohman, which remains true to the spirit of New York City Ballet’s Lincoln Center production. As a former student and New York City Ballet soloist under George Balanchine, Ohman was one of a select few authorized to use his mentor’s original pas de deux choreography, which continues to distinguish this production, along with costumes and props gifted by Balanchine.

Through the years Ohman supplemented Balanchine’s iconic vision with original dances and scenes. Loizides Albruzzese — who was a student at Ohman School of Ballet (a division of NYDT) under Ohman and performed most of the children’s roles in “The Nutcracker” during her time there (returning as a professional dancer in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy before her international dance career) — faithfully follows in her mentor’s footsteps in keeping to the Balanchine standard.

“This year has been about celebrating our roots and expanding the reach of the company and the Ohman School of Ballet, also marking a milestone at 45 years,” Loizides Albruzzese says. She returns to the NYDT stage as Frau Silberhaus in the opening Party Scene, alongside Glen Cove’s North Shore Village Theatre Founder-Artistic Director Christopher Moll as Herr Silberhaus. New York City Ballet soloist Erica Pereira and principal dancer Daniel Ulbricht return as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Joseph J. Simeone, whose credits include City Center’s “A Chorus Line” and Susan Stroman’s Degas-inspired “Little Dancer” at the Kennedy Center, joins NYDT this year as the mysterious Herr Drosselmeier.

In all, a cast of 80 children, pre-professional and professional dancers bring this classic story ballet to life. The kids’ roles are performed by Frank Ohman School of Ballet and the School of American Ballet (the home school of New York City Ballet) students.

As an added treat, audiences can enter into the 1820s German family’s household where “The

The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier are an enchanting pair as seen in Eglevesky Ballet’s production.

Nutcracker” unfolds during the semi-immersive pre-show experience. Everyone is invited into the Silberhaus home before the curtain rises, with the sights, smells and sounds of the Christmas Eve party that is the setting for Clara’s dream.

Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 21-22, noon and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $33. Hofstra University, John Cranford Adams Playouse, Hempstead. For tickets, visit NYDTNutcrackerTickets or call (631) 462-0964.

Eglevsky Ballet’s reimagined ‘The Nutcracker’

Long Island’s professional dance company, the Eglevsky Ballet, welcomes all to its inventive staging of Clara’s delightful journey, at the Tilles Center. Boston Ballet principals Ji Young Chae and Jeffrey Cirio Miller reprise their roles as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, Also of note, star of ballet, Broadway and screen Georgina Pazcoguin appears as the Dew Drop Fairy.

The beloved story — featuring additional choreography by Executive Artistic Director Maurice Brandon Curry — is danced with inventive staging enhanced by Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning costumes and a cast of over 60 students and professional dancers. The longest, continuously running ‘Nutcracker’ on Long Island, Eglevsky Ballet has presented it as a holiday gift to audiences since 1961. This exciting production, accompanied by Park Avenue Chamber Symphony, is a vibrant representation of the trajectory in which Curry is leading the organization.

Among his innovations, Curry has reinterpreted the central first act pas de deux in the prelude to “Waltz of the Snowflakes,” which is usually danced by the Snow Queen and Snow King. Instead Curry has the music (his personal favorite in the ballet) performed by Clara, danced by Eglevesky Ballet’s Ayne Kim and Enzo Castillo as The Nutcracker Prince.

“Having this pas de deux danced by these two intensifies the connection between the two characters,” Curry says. “We see the arc of their relationship and gives the opportunity for Clara’s dream to have a more poignant and personal effect on our audiences.”

Saturday, Dec. 21, 1 and 6 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m.

$59-$89. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, Rte. 25A, Brookville. For tickets, visit tillescenter.org or ticketmaster.com or call (516) 299-3100.

The Hot Sardines

The band brings their distinctive sound back to the Landmark stage, with a “Holiday Stomp,” a raucous Christmas celebration that includes timeless classics and original tunes. The Hot Sardines reinvents jazz standards with their own brassy horn arrangements, rollicking piano melodies and vocals from a chanteuse who transports listeners to a different era with the mere lilt of her voice. Emerging over a decade ago from the underground parties of Brooklyn to touring worldwide and recording a string of albums landed them at the center of a whirlwind. Audiences revel in the steamy, swanky influence of their art form. With their contagious brand of joy, grit, glamour and passion, the 8-piece band invokes the sounds of nearly a century ago, yet stay right in step with the current age.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 8 p.m. $65, $55, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or by calling (516) 767-6444.

Celtic Woman’s White Christmas

The Grammy-nominated, multiplatinum Irish-singing sensation rings in the holidays with their inimitable style. This is a rare opportunity to hear Celtic Woman’s harmonies with a full symphony orchestra. Hear their favorite Yuletide songs: “Silent Night,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Deck the Halls,” and more, along with Celtic Woman favorites “Danny Boy,” “Amazing Grace” and “You Raise Me Up.” In the 20 years since their debut, Celtic Woman has introduced some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians to the world stage. Their fresh fusion of traditional Irish music and contemporary songcraft celebrates Ireland’s history while reflecting its modern vibrant spirit.

Thursday, Dec. 19, 8 p.m. $129.50, $99.50, $79.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

Courtesy MCA Photos LLC

The party scene is among the ballet’s many dazzling moments that unfold in New York Dance Theatre’s staging.

Courtesy Eglevesky Ballet

Yellow

Brick Joel

Relive the classic songs that define generations when Yellow Brick Joel brings you the ultimate Elton John and Billy Joel experience, on the Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair stage, Friday, dec. 27, 8 p.m. David Clark performs as Billy Joel along with Bill Connors as Elton John in this thoroughly entertaining and faithful tribute to the Face To Face/Face 2 Face tours of the 1990s and 2000s. Experience a spirited concert celebrating the two greatest ‘Piano Men’ of our generation with hits like “I’m Still Standing,” “Rocket Man,’ “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right” along with some deeper fan performances like “Honky Cat”, “Funeral For A Friend”, “Miami 2017”, and “Captain Jack”! A tribute to two of the greatest piano players and performers of all time couldn’t be set up any other way! On one side of the stage, you’ll have Clark playing the role of Billy Joel for the night. Opposite him is Connors as Elton John with Elton’s requisite flamboyant style. Enjoy an incredible night as two of the greatest musical icons come to life in this special concert!

Get in the groove at this one-of-a-kind performance where these two talents go head-tohead as Elton John and Billy Joel delivering unforgettable music and showmanship. Whether you’re a fan of Billy’s heartfelt ballads or Elton’s electrifying anthems, this tribute concert is sure to leave you feeling like you’ve seen the real thing! Tickets start at $28. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com.

Holiday at Westbury House

Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House offers a festive glimpse of early 20th century holiday merriment, before it closes for the winter, Saturday, and Sunday, d ec. 14-15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The “Christmas at Westbury House” celebration reflects what the festive season was like during those opulent decades of the early 1900s when the Phipps family lived there. The period rooms in which John S. Phipps (the eldest son of Henry Phipps, Andrew Carnegie’s partner at Carnegie Steel) and his family resided are impeccably decorated with wreaths, mantelpiece drapes, plenty of greenery, and other horticultural arrangements. Take a self-guided tour through Westbury House and view specially decorated rooms for the holidays, have cookies and cider on the West Porch and meet and take photos with Santa while listening to ambient holiday music. The gardens will also be open, along with other special holiday events, including holiday market, and more. $15, $13 ages 62+ and students, $8 ages 7-17. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or call (516) 333-0048.

AARP Smart Driver Course

Join instructor Jamshed Ghadiali at Baldwin Public Library, Saturday, dec. 14, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. for AARP’s award-winning Smart Driver course. Learn safe driving strategies that can boost your confidence on the road, and may help you qualify for an auto insurance discount. Be sure to bring your driver’s license, AARP card, and a pen. To register, call (516) 223-6228 or visit baldwinpl.org. 2385 Grand Ave.

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, dec. 14, 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., with a new project weekly. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades.

Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Decorate an Ornament

‘Tis the season to get creative! Baldwin Library invites patrons to decorate an ornament for their Christmas tree. Visit the Teen Zone to pick up an ornament, now through Sunday, Dec. 22. Don’t miss out, bring your festive spirit to library and make this holiday season extra special! For more information, call (516) 223-6228 or visit baldwinpl.org. 2385 Grand Ave.

Dec. 15

Bird walk

See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, the west end of Jones Beach State Park, Sunday, Dec. 15, starting at 9 a.m. The group will meet at the Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area. The entrance for the Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin is on Bay Drive going west.

Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. Rain, snow or temperature below 25 degrees will cancel the bird walk. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon. org.

Having an event?

Holiday concert

Celebrate the season with the Symphonic Pops of Long Island, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m. The intergenerational orchestra of 60 L.I.-based musicians performs with the Willow Interfaith Women’s Choir as special guests. The program, at Brookside School in North Merrick, includes “Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” “Christmas Sing-A-Long,” “Greensleeves,” “Chanukah Festival Overture,” and much more. Suggested donation of $10 is requested at the door (kids are free). 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York. Visit symphonicpopsli.org for more.

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.

Family theater

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.

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Dec. 13, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Sunday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; also Tuesday through Thursday, Dec. 17-19, 10:-15 a.m. and noon. Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day & Other Stories” celebrates the joy in the small moments of a child’s world. Experience the wonder of a fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, and the awe of finding a special treasure. In this childhood adventure, Keats’ classic books come to life, featuring live actors and shadow puppets telling the stories of “The Snowy Day,” “Goggles!,” “Whistle for Willie,” and “A Letter to Amy.” $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff,

v. MARIE JEROME, ET AL, Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on March 4, 2014, I, George P. Esernio, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on January 7, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 858 Seaman Avenue Baldwin, NY 11510-2816

SBL No.: 54-470-320

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 010925/2013 in the amount of $284,962.27 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 150278

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT.

NASSAU COUNTY. COMMUNITY LOAN SERVICING F/K/A BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC, Pltf. vs. NATHTOE SPENCE, et al, Defts. Index #617290/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Oct. 16, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 8, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a 1312 Grand Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510 a/k/a Section 36, Block 216, Lot 158. Said property beginning

at the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Washington Boulevard with the westerly side of the northerly side of Washington Boulevard with the westerly side of Grand Avenue, as widened in 1952, being a plot 104.49 ft. x 20 ft. x 102.57 ft. x 20.09 ft. Approximate amount of judgment is $281,600.29 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The sale will take place “rain or shine.” MICHELLE AULIVOLA, Referee. DEROSE & SURICO, Attys. for Pltf., 213-44 38th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11361. #101928 150276

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 12/18/2024 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 73-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 73-2024, amending Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations.

Dated: November 19, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150412

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. VALARIE BROCCOLI, INDIVIDUALLY AS EXECUTRIX TO THE ESTATE OF ROBERT BROCCOLI AKA ROBERT V. BROCCOLI, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 8, 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 January 6, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 3014 Western Boulevard, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin Harbor, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 415 and Lot 61. Approximate amount of judgment is $187,227.57 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610706/2023. Cash will not be accepted.

Jerome A. Scharoff, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 150272

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 746/24. BALDWINMitchell Funeral Services, Inc., Variance in off-street parking (proposed funeral parlor in existing church), variance, rear yard, construct ramp attached to building., S/W cor. Grand Ave. & Florence St., a/k/a 2050 Grand Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Baldwin within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available a t https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 150422

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 73-2024

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held November 19th, 2024, by the Town Board

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff, vs. VICKIE REINA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 24, 2019, 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 January 14, 2025 at 3:00 p.m., premises known as 3186 Grand Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54., Block 566 and Lot 37.

Approximate amount of judgment is $702,079.43 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #001788/2017. Referee does not accept cash.

Ellen Savino, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 180341-1 150431

The Nutcracker opens the holiday season

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

For 35 years, Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead has ushered in the holiday season with its production of The Nutcracker. This year is no exception, as the all-girls Catholic high school prepares to enchant audiences with a unique, student-led rendition of the classic ballet. With the school celebrating its 75th anniversary, the performance is a testament to tradition, talent, and teamwork.

Sacred Heart Academy’s Nutcracker stands apart from other productions on Long Island. The students direct every aspect of the show, from choreography to stage management. Rockville Centre resident Annie Melia, a 2008 alumna and director of the production for the past two years, takes pride in this distinctive approach.

Melia’s connection to The Nutcracker runs deep. She first performed in the production as an eight-year-old and returned to Sacred Heart as director when the school needed someone to take the reins. While she has many responsibilities including volunteering her time at the Long Beach Humane Society in Island Park, she loves being a part of the tradition.

“It’s become such a staple in the community each year,” Melia said. “We had one teacher who took it on because she didn’t want to see it die and it’s the same thing with me. I wear many hats and this isn’t my full-time job. I had some time last year and it can’t happen if we don’t have someone here to run it and we can’t let it die. Of course, I’ve gotten attached to the girls and so each year I come back to do it.”

The show’s rich history extends

beyond the high schooler students performing this year. Younger dancers from Tap to Pointe Dance Center in Malverne, where Melia herself trained as a child, join the cast to play angels, which they have done for 30 years. One of the earliest productions of The Nutcracker on Long Island, Sacred Heart’s version traditionally debuts the weekend before Thanksgiving.

“We have so many people who’ve come each year because they love for it to be the way that they kick off the holiday season, especially with their kids,” Melia said. “We see alumni and parents returning year after year. The Sunday show is always sold out because everyone loves to bring their little ones.”

Each year, four students are selected to lead the production: two co-presidents, who play the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen, and two vice presidents, who portray Clara and The Nutcracker.

Preparation for The Nutcracker begins in early September, as students juggle daily rehearsals with their academic responsibilities. The dedication is evident in every detail, from the costumes to the transitions between scenes. Parents even provide meals during long evening rehearsals.

“It’s great to see how they build the production,” Melia said of the students. “Although it’s the same music every year, they put their spin on it. We change the costumes a little bit every year. They have different roles every year and it’s exciting to see them reimagining everything each year.”

The annual production of The Nutcracker Ballet takes place at Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead on Nov. 22 and 23 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at sacredheartacademyli.org.

Courtesy Annie Melia

Pertformers bring the iconic dances to life with vibrant choreography during Sacred Heart Academy’s The Nutcracker.

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What good is ‘grandfathered’ if we still need permits?

Q. We have an old home, built in the 1940s, that we just found out needs permits for a garage and a back family room. We don’t understand why we need this. The house was sold to us this way, cleared title, and we were told the garage was grandfathered in and the back room was “part of the house.” Why is it that if we bought it that way and it’s been there for so many years, it still needs plans, permits and, as we are finding out, a possible zoning hearing just to avoid fines? Are there rules about grandfathering over some period of time, like a statute of limitations or something?

A. No, there is actually no provision for grandfathering. When meeting with potential clients, we often check public records if we can’t find anything in the homeowners’ closing papers. The reason why this is missed is because, most of the time, a title company searches records but doesn’t set foot in the house. Also, because it’s rare to have anyone who is qualified to look at the house conditions to compare them with codes and records, things like your garage and rear addition are assumed and not confirmed.

Unfortunately, the conditions may need upgrading if they don’t meet current codes, although some building departments are more reasonable if you can prove the year of the work to them. Others will ask for windows to be changed to meet light, ventilation and fire escape requirements in bedrooms, or to have air conditioning units and basement escape wells addressed. It’s not unusual to need plans, a building application, zoning approval and, finally, a permit for the air conditioning condenser unit in your side yard, or for an escape well that restricts the only side yard available to get out of a basement.

I know that I’m saving people money and aggravation by explaining these things before they buy the house or do a new project, just because they’re aware of how to address the issue, but it’s rare to be asked, before a sale, to even look at the issues, because it would thwart the sale in many cases if this condition was revealed. It’s assumed that a title search is all you need, and yet I often find that in the process of doing the new project people want, we professionals get bogged down with the other things that create friction, delays and feelings of despair. It’s not unusual to hear people say they never would have started the project if they knew it was going to be this difficult, usually with the phrase, “can of worms” attached.

Depending on the need for a zoning variance, which in some municipalities can add many months to the process, you will need to have plans professionally generated by an architect or engineer, code, zoning and energy analysis to obtain permits, final inspections and certification. Good luck!

© 2024 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com,

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opinions

Continue the fight to end hunger all year-round

The holiday season is a time for reflection and paying forward our blessings — and I believe that is important to demonstrate charity and compassion for the most vulnerable members of our society.

In the practice of my own Catholic faith, Paul’s words to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:35 ring especially true at this time of year: “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Paired with my professional background as a social worker, this focus on helping families and individuals emerge from periods of struggle has guided my approach to serving in the Nassau County Legislature. Most recently, it informed my advocacy for American Rescue Plan Act grants for

our district — and thanks to the unity demonstrated by my colleagues in the Legislature’s Democratic minority, our districts received their fair share of this once-in-a-generation influx of federal aid.

A good number of the grants that have been approved or will be finalized by the end of the year focus on grass-roots organizations in our communities that fight hunger. In Baldwin, my office secured $50,000 for the food pantry at the Roman Catholic Church of St. Christopher, which is sure to tremendously amplify the church’s ability to deliver vital nutritional assistance to the families it serves.

A number of federal grants focus on local grass-roots groups that battle hunger.

my office has secured ARPA funding for is the NEST at Nassau Community College. Short for Nassau: Empowerment and Support for Tomorrow, the NEST is a nonprofit that operates a free-choice food pantry that offers food, personal care items and support services to students, employees and families in need. It has been approved for a $10,000 grant for its philanthropic efforts to promote health and wellness in the college community.

on track to secure vital resources for regional and local entities alike. Most important, it will equip these organizations to continue their efforts into the new year, well after the generous proceeds of Thanksgiving and holiday season food drives leave the shelves of food pantries.

In Freeport, I worked alongside my colleague Legislator Seth Koslow to secure $22,348 for Ladles of Hope, a nonprofit organization based in Our Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church. It is fully volunteer-based, operates entirely on private donations, and serves individuals and families in need in Nassau County at soup kitchens and pantries.

Another wonderful organization that

iTo further amplify these efforts, my office has extended our Thanksgiving food drive for the NEST until Dec. 18. If you would like to make a contribution to support its efforts, please visit the Roosevelt Public Library (27 W. Fulton Ave. in Roosevelt), the Freeport Memorial Library (144 W. Merrick Road in Freeport), or South Hempstead Fire Department headquarters (555 May St. in South Hempstead) during normal business hours.

Across the county, I am gratified to see how my colleagues have taken up the fight to end food insecurity and are

That is perhaps the most important message of all in this conversation. As we come to the end of 2024 and take stock of our lives, may we all resolve to make our own personal commitment to joining this fight not just during the holiday season, but all year long, so that we can collectively position everyone in our society to thrive.

Whether you support the regional efforts of Long Island Cares or Island Harvest, major events such as the biannual Nassau County Veterans Stand Down, at the Freeport Armory, or the food ministry at your local church, every contribution will make a positive impact on the life of one of your neighbors in their hour of need.

I wish you and your families a blessed holiday season and peace in a joyful, prosperous new year.

Debra Mulé represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District.

Unwrapping a year of daily notes

unwrapped the holiday gift I received from my son, Matthew, last year and found a New York Mets tear-off calendar for 2024. Six days a week (weekends were combined), there was either a question about Mets history or a fun fact.

Jan. 1: “In 2019, Pete Alonzo blasted 53 home run, setting a record for an MLB rookie.”

Feb. 13: “Who was the first player in Mets history to steal home more than once in a single season?

Hubie Brooks, 1991.”

March 27: “In 2022, Francisco Lindor became the first shortstop in Mets history to hit at least 20 home runs in consecutive seasons.”

I don’t know why, but from New Year’s Day through the following 12 months, I wrote notes on the back of each page I tore off.

Jan. 3: “Fast day @ work. Much to do. Zone meeting. Job interview. Freeport production. NYPA.”

Feb. 13: “Snow day. Everyone home. Matt visited. Workers upstairs. Chocolate chip p–cakes/bacon dinner.

March 26: “@ office. Production Nas-

sau early. Closed papers early.” Early in the year, I debated whether to leave the calendar at home or bring it in to the office. I sided with keeping it on the desk in my man-cave-libraryoffice at home, in what used to be my son’s bedroom.

April 8: “On this date in 1954, future Mets catcher Gary Carter was born in Culver City, CA.” (Additional fun fact: Carter’s jersey number was 8.)

May 14: “In 1972, who did the Mets trade to the Giants in exchange for Willie Mays? RHP Charlie Williams (along with $50,000).”

previous day, or over the weekend. It’s been interesting to compare what I wrote in the first few months of the year with my notes later in the year. The Mets had a horrible start, but then, on Oct. 9: “Mets win NLDS Series 3-1.”

o n one side, a landmark in Mets history. On the other, my daughter’s birthday.

Every morning this year, after getting dressed, I’ve put off going downstairs for breakfast for a few minutes, sat down and noted the highlights of the previous day.

April 1: “Edited stories. Set up paper. Tuna for dinner. Two great hoops games. Mets 0-4/good job.

May 16: “Got sale docs signed/ mailed. C/U backyard. Rangers clinched semi series.”

June 29/30: “Sat. — errands/clean up. Relax/game nite/pizza. Sun. — a little work/relax. Pulled pork @ Les’s/dinner. Spoke with Stuart/plan.”

Writing these brief notes was a way to remember what had happened the

The thoughts trickle back as snapshot memories that I either want to cherish, like Sept. 25 — “White House Tavern dinner 30 yrs.” — Or try to forget, like Oct. 27: “Mr. G’s wake.”

July 19: “Mike Piazza was the first player in Mets history to have four different seasons with at least 30 home runs.”

Sept. 3: “On this date in 1978, who became the first Mets player to hit a home run from both sides of the plate in the same game? Lee Mazzilli. Time is fleeting, it is precious, and God is not making more of it. These are among the many, many things that have been written about time. Clearly, we should be making the most of it.

July 23: “Office. Production mostly on time. Nautilus for dinner.”

Aug. 6: “Office. Production — Lyn, Nassau, Uniondale & South Shore Record computer glitches/rain storm. Sept. 14/15: “A little work/errands relaxed. Laundry — work relaxed. Wendy’s w/Liz. Chris out with the ladies.”

Snapshots of nearly 365 days of another year in a life. I wonder what other people’s notes would look like.

Oct. 4: “On this date in 1999, Al Leiter threw a two-hit shutout to propel the Mets over the Reds in a one-game playoff berth for the NL Wild Card berth.” Dec. 3: “What ballpark was the first to allow fans to keep the foul balls that landed in the stands? Wrigley Field.”

Who knows what the next year will bring? I hope it’s more memories like these.

Oct. 19/20: “Sat. — Errands/watched college FB. B&B Fish and Clam tilapia/ onion rings. Sun. — Read stories/laundry. Watched football. Houlihan’s for Liz’s 19th B-day!

Nov. 16/17: “Sat. — Errands, dinner Alan’s B-day, Austin’s Ale House. Sun. — open house. Football. Pasta/sauce/ bread dinner.”

Dec. 4: “Office. Asked to write op-ed to fill hole. Valley Stream 100 mtg. Dinner w/Liz, buffalo chicken roll/ CParm.”

Time moves quickly, and while details of my daily life may not match the scale of the Mets’ landmark events, they hold deeper significance. My team — my family and friends — far outshines even my favorite baseball squad in importance.

Jeffrey Bessen is the deputy editor of Herald Community Newspapers, and a dedicated note taker.

State must fund seat belts for school buses

Yellow school buses are an iconic image of education in America, transporting millions of children each day. But in New York state, the question of whether buses are equipped with seat belts is left to individual school districts.

The Briarcliff, Elmsford and Yonkers districts have embraced the added security of seat belts in a limited form, but others have opted out, leaving a patchwork system that prioritizes local discretion over consistent safety standards.

On the crowded roads of 2024, this approach is no longer acceptable. It is time for the state to mandate seat belts on all school buses in every district, ensuring the safety of every child who steps aboard.

School buses are generally recognized as one of the safest modes of transportation, thanks to their design and the principle of “compartmentalization.” High-backed, closely spaced seats create a buffer that helps absorb the force of a collision.

Simple compartmentalization is far from foolproof, however, particularly in side-impact crashes or rollovers. Seat belts add a crucial layer of protection in these scenarios. Without them, children can be thrown from their seats, increasing the likelihood of serious injury or even death.

A statewide mandate would align New York with the growing national consensus on school bus safety. Several

letters

D’Esposito is a falsifier

To the Editor:

states, including New Jersey, Florida, and California, already require seat belts on buses. These mandates reflect the recommendations of safety organizations like the National Transportation Safety Board, which has advocated for the installation of lap-and-shoulder belts on all new large buses. By following suit, New York would reaffirm its commitment to children’s safety and set an example for still more states to follow.

One argument often made by opponents of mandatory seat belts is that they’re too costly to install. Retrofitting existing buses or buying new models equipped with seat belts is a significant investment, but when the expense is weighed against the potential cost of injuries or fatalities, the financial argument falls flat.

The state Department of Transportation could work with school districts to phase in the requirement over time, offsetting the cost with the help of state funding or federal grants. But again, the safety benefits of seat belts far outweigh the expense. Protecting children should never hinge on budgetary constraints.

Another concern is enforcement of seat belt requirements. Critics argue that younger children might not consistently buckle up. While this concern is valid, it is not insurmountable. Bus drivers can incorporate quick visual checks into their routine, and schools can implement safety education pro-

Re U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito’s recent op-ed, “I look forward to representing you again”: D’Esposito said some things that were far from the truth. As president of the Long Island chapter of the New York Alliance for Retired Americans, I represent over 10,000 members Islandwide, which includes more than 3,000 members in his district.

I was assigned to secure a meeting with the congressman, as I had done with Peter King several years ago. King gave the alliance’s statewide president and me about 20 minutes, and that was two days after a major snowstorm. I would have been happy with 20 minutes with D’Esposito, but despite numerous calls, I was given the runaround by both his district and Washington offices. Maybe if he had met with us, more of those 3,000-plus members would have voted for him. After all, everyone agrees that senior citizens vote in higher percentages than the general population.

He was also inaccurate about his voting for an immigration bill, because he left out the part where he voted against the bipartisan bill

grams to teach students the importance of being protected while on the bus. These measures would foster a culture of compliance and ensure that seat belts serve their intended purpose.

Beyond the practical and financial considerations, the best argument for seat belts is a moral one. Parents trust that when their children board a bus, they are as safe as possible. By leaving the decision to individual districts, New York sends a troubling message: that children’s safety may vary depending on their Zip code. This undermines the model of equal protection and fairness that public education is supposed to embody.

In the end, the case for mandatory seat belts on school buses is clear. The technology exists, the safety benefits are well documented, and the moral imperative is undeniable. New York has long been a leader in progressive public policy. Requiring seat belts on school buses would not only safeguard the state’s most vulnerable residents, but also reaffirm its commitment to equity and safety.

It’s time for the state to take the wheel on this issue and drive meaningful change. Safety is not optional — it’s a necessity. With an annual budget of nearly a quarter-trillion dollars, New York has no excuse for not providing money to add seat belts to school buses. Children are our most precious passengers, and the time to act is now.

that would have solved many immigration problems. But his party leaders wanted him to help kill that bill so it could be used as an issue in the November election.

Representative D’Esposito speaks out

of both sides of his mouth, like many politicians do. All I can say about that is, you reap what you sow.

STANLEY B. BERgMAN East Meadow

We’re working to keep NUMC open, despite its struggles

among the top priorities of the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority is ensuring that Nassau University Medical Center remains open, returns to financial health and is available to serve the people who need it most. A recent op-ed in the Herald by NUMC leadership (“After reforms, NUMC is on the upswing,” Oct. 10-16) caught our eye, because it painted a rosy picture of the hospital’s financial situation, even though the facts say the opposite.

Despite the platitudes offered in the op-ed, the fundamental issue remains that the Nassau Health Care Corporation, the state public authority that manages NUMC and related facilities, continues to operate at a tremendous deficit while making no meaningful changes to work toward financial stability. NHCC’s oper-

ating losses (before certain actuarial adjustments) were approximately $77 million in 2023 and roughly $108 million in 2022. NIFA is projecting an operating loss for NHCC of around $120 million in 2024.

tEarlier this year, NHCC made a unilateral demand for substantial additional funding from the state. In response, the State Department of Health requested that NHCC provide certain required information and take particular actions to achieve balanced operations in order to be considered for extraordinary relief. Amazingly, NHCC has resisted complying adequately with the Health Department’s reasonable conditions that it must impose to ensure that NHCC would manage the state’s scarce resources appropriately.

of $7 million. Over the past four and a half years, the total that NHCC owes NYSHIP has ballooned to roughly $380 million.

he county’s Interim

Finance Authority has made the troubled hospital a priority.

That isn’t just some enormous number sitting in a filing cabinet in Albany: It’s a tremendous cost that is being passed on to other municipal organizations in Nassau County and throughout the state. This means that these costs are being subsidized by entities like local governments and school districts, and thus, taxpayers. The increased burden on Nassau County and other taxpayers will only get worse if the hospital’s ineffective leadership is not changed for the better.

the past three years alerting leadership that the health care corporation is at risk of termination by NYSHIP due to these unpaid amounts. It is the negligence of NHCC’s executives that has led it to this point.

At the core of its financial instability is the fact that NHCC owes the New York State Health Insurance Program, or NYSHIP, $9 million per month in premiums. NHCC pays only $2 million each month, creating a monthly deficit

Letters

He sounds like he wants his seat back

To the Editor:

I found Anthony D’Esposito’s piece confusing, because it sounded more like his first campaign speech to regain his lost seat rather than an opinion. In a county that voted favorably for the Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump, Mr. D’Esposito was unable to ride Mr. Trump’s coattails and defeat Laura Gillen in New York’s 4th Congressional District. In the majority opinion, the best candidate won.

JOHN P. FITzSIMONS Rockville Centre

School regionalization: something smells

To the Editor:

After reading in the Herald about the emergency regionalization plan proposed by the State Education Department, I see this as an attempt by the department to integrate all of the Nassau County school districts and their systems. That would eliminate local control of schools and centralize their supervision.

This new “emergency” approach would improve the education results in the Hempstead and Roosevelt districts, to name just a few, but by signing on to the plan, school districts will lose all local control. I advise districts to move

forward with caution. I smell a rat here.

RUTH HIRSCH Hewlett

Why the MTA’s 2025 fare hikes make sense

To the Editor:

Long Island Rail Road and New York City Transit riders should hold accountable any public official, Metropolitan Transportation Authority board member or transit advocate who opposes the planned 4 percent fare hikes in 2025 for missing why the increases are needed. They were part of the MTA’s $51 billion 2020-2024 Five Year Capital Plan.

Quality and frequency of service depends on secure revenue streams. We will all have to contribute — be it with fares or tax revenue redistributed to the MTA. Fare hikes are periodically required if the authority’s operating agencies, including the LIRR, are to provide the services millions of New Yorkers count on daily. They are inevitable due to increasing costs of labor, power, fuel, supplies, materials, routine safety, state of good repair, replacement of worn-out rolling stock, and upgrades to stations, yards and shops necessary to run any transit system.

In 2023, the MTA lost $700 million to fare evasion and spent $1.3 billion on employee overtime. There is little reason to believe that the 2024 numbers will significantly change. So, in return for honest riders paying the new higher fares

NHCC executives are potentially placing an even greater financial strain on the shoulders of their over 3,500 employees (along with retirees), all of whom are at risk of losing their health insurance should these arrears on NYSHIP payments continue. The New York State Civil Service Commission has sent NHCC numerous letters over

The hospital’s problems are the result of poor management and an ineffective board, whose members must be replaced in order for the situation to improve. NIFA knows for certain that, in order for NUMC to continue serving our community, its existing leadership must change, and soon. NHCC’s current board leadership and management have shown that they are ill-equipped to oversee such a delicate operation. Their lack of ability shows, and it could ultimately result in the hospital shutting down entirely. Thousands of people would be out of jobs, and all of us would lose a crucial medical resource in our community.

The last thing we want is for NUMC is to close its doors. Along with Gov. Kathy Hochul and her top staff, NIFA is working hard with all stakeholders to keep them open.

Richard Kessel is chairman of the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority.

Framework by Tim Baker

next year, the MTA must step up and reduce annual fare evasion by several hundred million dollars and employee overtime to well below $1 billion. A fare increase requires MTA reforms.

LARRY PENNER

Great Neck

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

At the Chamber of Commerce tree lighting in Veterans Memorial Park — East Meadow

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