East Meadow Herald 12-19-2024

HERALD east meadow

Two tree lightings are better than one!

Holiday cheer was abundant in East Meadow and Salisbury, as both communities gathered to light their Christmas trees and spread joy ahead of the holidays. From performances to East Meadow School District students to sweet holiday treats, there was plenty of fun to go around everywhere. Above, Payton Lew, 7, Emma Gomes, 6, and Kaitlyn Gomes, 5, at Salisbury’s tree lighting on Dec. 6. Right, Zhujun Yang with her son, Alwyn Yang, 3, braved the cold and bundled up for East Meadow’s tree lighting on Dec. 5. Story, more photos from both tree lightings, Page 3.

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Clarke REACH students craft holiday decor

By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com

Students at W.T. Clarke Middle School created holidaythemed decorations as a part of their careers and technology class on Dec. 11. The careers and technology class, led by teacher Kristen O’Brien, is part of the Recognizing and Encouraging Accomplishments in Children program. The REACH program specializes in supporting lessons about daily life skills for students on the Autism spectrum — especially skills they will need to succeed in high school and adulthood.

Tsome of the children in this class have some difficulties with some of their fine motor skills, and that’s something that they need to sharpen,” she explained.

O’Brien saw a perfect opportunity to combine several of her class’ learning objectives into one practical lesson.

he kids did such a great job.

ElizABETH DowliNg principal

W.T. Clarke Middle School

“It’s a lot of fun,” O’Brien said. “I taught art for a number of years, so I really appreciate that we get to infuse creativity with the tech and hand-building parts of it.”

O’Brien founded the monthly crafts project at the start of this school year, after seeing a need to adjust her lesson plan.

“In trying to come up with a plan for the year, I noticed that

“It had just occurred to me — why not come up with a business?” she said. “We have craft supplies, we have wood supplies, we have tools. So, what can we do with that to make something creative and exciting, and be able to share it with the school community?”

Each month, the students design what the craft will be based on the month’s theme, usually inspired by the holidays or the season: Toy pumpkins in October, autumnthemed welcome signs in November, and snowmen in December. This month’s snowmen were each unique, with custom hats and colors.

Once the students have a

Continued on page 9

Bob Arkow/Herald photos

East Meadow musicians perform at All-State

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Students in the East Meadow School District participated in the All-State Festival at the New York State School Music Association’s annual Winter Conference in Rochester from Dec. 5 to 8.

These students represented both East Meadow High School and W.T. Clarke High School, showcasing their abilities on a prestigious stage.

During the multi-day festival, students rehearsed and performed under the guidance of world-renowned conductors. This immersive experience not only honed their musical skills but also fostered collaboration and camaraderie with fellow student musicians from across the state.

The All-State Festival is a celebration of the highest level of achievement in music education in New York State. The East Meadow School District commended the students who earned spots for their dedication, passion, and talent. Their success, the district said, reflects not only their individual efforts but also the district’s strong commitment to fostering musical excellence.

9 students selected

Nine talented student musicians from the East Meadow School District were chosen to perform in the 2024 NYSSMA All-State Festival. This selection recognized their dedication and skill in music. Additionally, two students were named as alternates, a significant achievement in its own right.

98-100 scoring criteria

Earning a spot in an All-State ensemble required

Students in the East Meadow School District participated in All-State Festival at the new York State School Music Association’s Winter Conference, which took place from Dec. 5 to 8 in Rochester.

students to receive a near-perfect score — between 98 and 100 — on a solo performance. These performances were judged by NYSSMA All-State adjudicators, who evaluated technical proficiency, musicality, and overall execution.

7,000 Competitors for 890 Spots

More than 7,000 students across New York auditioned for just 890 coveted spots in the All-State ensem-

bles, making this recognition a testament to the extraordinary talent of the East Meadow students. Selection is based on auditions and teacher recommendations, emphasizing musical excellence at the highest level.

5 ensembles

East Meadow’s student musicians were selected to perform in several prestigious ensembles, including the Symphonic Band, Mixed Chorus, and Treble Chorus. These groups are made up of New York State’s most accomplished young musicians.

Student achievements by school

East Meadow High School:

n Dave Alavanza: Symphonic Band

n Joshua Amy: Mixed Chorus

n Daniel Persaud: Symphonic Band

n Ria Savan: Treble Chorus

W.T. Clarke High School:

n Lia Addeo: Mixed Chorus

n Kysia Chan: Mixed Chorus

n Saad Khan: Symphonic Band

n Kaiden Mayers: Mixed Chorus

n Bayli Pham: Mixed Chorus

Alternates:

n Brian Bae

n Charlotte Huang

FAITH-BASED BREAKFAST

Join the Alzheimer’s Association, the Divine Health Ministry of Memorial Presbyterian Church and SoulJoy Wellness for a morning of self-care. We will explore how Alzheimer’s and related dementias impact our community and discuss healthy habits for your brain, body and soul.

Memorial Presbyterian Church Social Hall 189 Babylon Turnpike Roosevelt, NY 11575

To register, call 800.272.3900, visit alz.org/longisland or scant the QR code.

Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Courtesy East Meadow Union Free School District

A jolly good time at East Meadow tree lighting

It was a chilly but festive night as the East Meadow community organizations officially kicked off the holiday season on Dec. 5 at an annual tree lighting ceremony.

Brought together by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, this was the 25th year in which the community gathered to embrace the holiday spirit.

At the Town of Hempstead’s Veterans Memorial Park Town Square on Prospect Avenue, dozens gathered for an evening of holiday lights, musical presentations by East Meadow School District students, and a special appearance by Santa Claus and Buddy the Elf from the movie, ‘Elf.’

The NY Dancers Studio, located on Merrick Avenue in East Meadow, put on this year’s dance presentation, while students from the East Meadow School District played an ensemble of holiday music.

Along with the tree lighting, there was face painting, delicious donuts and hot chocolate, and an ornament decorating station for everyone to enjoy.

–Jordan Vallone

Salisbury residents ring in the holiday season

It wouldn’t be the holiday season in Salisbury without the annual tree lighting, which takes place every year at the intersection of Carman Avenue and Lake Lane.

The evening was brought together by the Community Association of Stewart Avenue and the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce. For nearly 40 years, Salisbury residents have gathered to see and feel what the holidays are all about.

This year, the Community Association of Stewart Avenue, along with several elected officials who attended the lighting, also honored Helen Meittinis

Felicity Fitzpatrick, 10, of Westbury, is a Girl Scout in Troop 1140, which helped make ornaments for the tree.

for her many years of service to the association.

On Dec. 6, the East Meadow Fire Department arrived with Santa Claus on a fire truck — a welcomed treat for many excited kids. The W.T. Clarke High School jazz choir performed a beautiful mix of holiday songs, and thanks to the help of East Meadow Kiwanis service leadership groups and local Girl and Boy Scout troops, the tree was decorated with handmade ornaments.

–Jordan Vallone

The East Meadow Fire Department hung out with Santa Claus and Buddy the Elf from the movie ‘Elf’ at the holiday celebration.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

The Salisbury community celebrated the holiday season with its annual tree lighting on Dec. 6. Alexandria Messina, 8, and Anna Messina, 10, with their dad, Brian Messina, a captain with Engine No. 4 in the East Meadow Fire Department.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

It was a grand holiday celebration at Veterans Memorial Park in East Meadow on Dec. 5, as the community started off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony.

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

Emerson, who wrote a great deal about overcoming fear, said: “Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment and the more experiments the better. What if they are a little coarse and you may get your coat soiled and torn? What if you do fail, and get fairly rolled in the dirt once or twice? Up again, you shall never be so afraid of a tumble.”

Author Jeffers’ book explains that until you fully understand that you, and no one else, create what goes on in your head, you will never be in control of your life. When you blame any outside force for any of your experiences of life, you are literally giving away your power thus creating pain, paralysis and depression. Always ask yourself what am I doing or not doing that is causing this to happen to me. You don’t have to condone the behavior of others, but simply not to allow it to be the source of your upset. Jeffers teaches how to overcome your biggest enemy — your “chatterbox” and replace it with a loving

Happy holidays – Blessed be the land of the free! HanukkaH greeTing

The fresh snow is melting, holiday signs and warm lights dazzle the streets as I sit to write this article. The markets are buzzing with shoppers loading their carts with decorations and gifts.

I stretch in the comfort of my office chair and reflect on the idea of freedom. Freedom of speech and freedom of religion are two that come to mind, the foundation of our beloved country. How delightful it is to live in a democracy that allows everyone to practice their religion without being ridiculed or forced to hide their identity.

a vibrant and colorful one!

We are reminded of the Pilgrims who boarded the Mayflower and came to America to pursue religious independence from the Church of England. They vowed to be free to practice their religion and speak their mind. It isn’t a coincidence that the first amendment clarifies just that. FREEDOM!

internal friend. “It is reported that over 90% of what we worry of never happens,” says Jeffers. We create our own reality.

The author moves on to decision-making and the fear of making the wrong decision. Here, she explains how there are no “wrong” decisions. Your writer has often advised clients that it is better to make the “wrong” decision than none at all. You learn from mistakes -- you learn nothing from inaction. Learn and correct or, as Emerson said, “The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks.”

Jeffers writes that there is a lightness to positive people. They have learned not to take themselves so seriously and they are a joy to be around -- they are those who have learned to make lemonade out of lemons. As Emerson rightly said, “We seldom see anybody who is not uneasy and afraid to live.” By adopting the lessons in “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway”, you too can become one of those seldom found people.

The story of Hanukkah amplifies the need for these privileges. It is a tale of a triumph of light over darkness, good vs. evil. The Jewish people were prohibited to study and learn the five books of Moses and were commended by the Greeks to abstain from any Jewish practices. To avoid being caught, the Jewish children were supplied with toys, spinning dreidels. Whenever the Greek soldiers approached the children pulled their dreidels out and played.

For eight days, the holiday of Hannukah commemorates the miracles that happened in this era. Candles are lit, dreidels are played, and special food is eaten. Often, like this year, Hanukkah coincides with Christmas and Kwanzaa. This is the beauty of our country. Yes, it is a “melting pot,”

Being free to practice our spiritual convictions is a gift that was handed down to us by the founders of this country. It is crucial and essential for us to carry down this torch and continue implementing the first amendment in the spirit of those who wrote it.

We should respect any faith-group or non-religion and remember to look out of our comfort zone and see beauty in every credence. My congregation was honored to host an interfaith service a couple of weeks ago. The harmony of the prayers of several groups of faiths was unmatched. Peace relies on the principle of respecting others and their beliefs, so in this holiday season I invite you to enjoy the lights and happiness in your home, with your friends and family and in our brilliantly decorated streets!

Happy Holidays!

Rabbi Moshe Weisblum is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Tikvah.

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■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: emeditor@liherald.com

■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: (516) 569-4000

Rabbi Moshe WeisbluM

by Susan Jeffers — Part Two

Clarke freshman places second in art contest

The East Meadow School District announced this month that W.T. Clarke High School freshman Maesha Balansag won second place in the 2024-25 Chuck Baird Memorial Art Competition.

Sponsored by the National American Sign Language Honor Society, the competition invites students nationwide to create original artwork that authenti -

cally captured the essence of the Deaf community’s experiences, traditions and values. Maesha’s digital art piece, “The Sign of the Moon,” was among 280 submissions from across the U.S.

The district congratulated Balansand on being recognized for her incredible artwork.

–Jordan Vallone

Photos courtesy East Meadow Union Free School District

Maesha Balansag’s digital art piece, ‘The Sign of the Moon,’ was among 280 submissions from across the U.S.

W.T. Clarke High School freshman Maesha Balansag, center, won second place in the 2024-25 Chuck Baird Memorial Art Competition. Also pictured is Clarke World Languages teacher Carolyn Tully and high school Principal Timothy Voels.

News briefs

John Priest re-elected fire commissioner

Commissioner John Priest was reelected to the East Meadow Fire District Board of Commissioners during the annual fire district elections on Dec. 10.

Priest, a longtime volunteer with the East Meadow Fire Department’s Engine Company No. 1, has served in various leadership roles over more than 40 years of service. He completed two terms as company captain, in 1999 and 2015, and served as chief of the East Meadow Fire Department in 2003 and 2012.

Beyond his work with the fire department, Priest is an active member of several community organizations, including the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce, where he sits on the board of directors.

law, include levying taxes to fund the operation and maintenance of the East Meadow Volunteer Fire Department, adopting budgets for daily operations, and approving the purchase of apparatus and safety equipment for firefighting and emergency medical services.

The East Meadow Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services to East Meadow and parts of Levittown and Salisbury. The department is seeking new members to join as firefighters or emergency medical personnel, with no prior experience required. Training is provided, along with benefits such as tax breaks, college scholarships, annual health checkups, life insurance, and a service award pension program, all at no cost.

Courtesy East Meadow Union Free

Woodland Middle School’s Terrific Kids for the months of September, October and November were recognized during the East Meadow Board of Education’s board meeting last month.

E.M. Board of Ed. celebrates Terrific Kids

The East Meadow Board of Education recognized the district’s Terrific Kids during its board meeting at the Salisbury School last month.

The Board of Fire Commissioners is a five-member body elected by registered voters within the fire district to serve five-year terms. Its primary responsibilities, established by state

For more information about joining the department, visit EastMeadowFD. com or call (516) 542-4565.

–Jordan Vallone

W.T. Clarke Middle School Principal Elizabeth Dowling and Woodland Middle School Principal Kristi Detor announced the Terrific Kids

months of September, October and November. Terrific Kids is a student recognition program sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis Club that promotes character development, self-esteem and perseverance.

School District

John Priest

Merry Christmas to the people of God

Last Christmas, we celebrated the 800th anniversary of that glorious and historic night when St. Francis of Assisi arranged the first Nativity creche scene in a small cave outside the Italian village of Greccio in Italy.

St. Francis was inspired to do this after visiting the historical place of Christ’s birth on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land - the humble stable in a Bethlehem cave.

The large creche set in St. Peter’s Square last year commemorated this 800th anniversary by having the figure of St. Francis of Assisi expressing adoration, awe and wonder across the Crib from Mary and Joseph.

Last September, we celebrated the 800th Anniversary of St. Francis receiving the gift of the “stigmata”the mystical wounds of Christ in his hands, feet and side. In 2026, we will celebrate the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death.

There is always a powerful connection between the Manger Crib and the Golgotha Cross of our Savior. St. Francis of Assisi lived this connection so powerfully.

In Admirabile Signum, Pope Francis writes: “Indeed, the place where this first nativity scene was enacted expresses and evokes these sentiments...from the time of its Franciscan origins, the nativity scene has invited us to ‘feel’ and ‘touch’ the poverty that God’s Son took upon himself in the Incarnation. Implicitly, it summons us to follow him along the path of humility, poverty and self-denial that leads from the manger of Bethlehem to the Cross. It asks us to meet him and serve him by showing merey to those of our brothers and sisters in great need (ef. Matthew 25:31-46).” (3)

and in all countries.

St. Francis of Assisi understood the problems of the world and more than 800 years later, after he created the first creche, he is still close to the Church and to the world.

ReveRend

John o. BaRRes

As we spiritually draw near to Bethlehem at the end of this year, we pray for those who suffer in the Holy Land and the Middle East, in Ukraine and all war-torn areas of the world.

We pray too for the persecuted Church around the world and we pray for religious liberty in our country

Many of you have seen the bronze statue of Atlas directly across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

It was created by the sculptor Lee Lawrie and installed in 1937. The sculpture portrays the mythical ancient Greek Titan Atlas holding the burden of the heavens on his shoulder.

St. Francis of Assisi is no myth, but at times he has been compared with Atlas in how, through the centuries, he carried the burdens of the Church on his shoulders with his radical and pure Gospel witness.

In fact, Pope Innocent III, after meeting St. Francis, had a dream that St. Francis was holding up St. John Lateran Basilica, the visible sign and

symbol of the universal Church, amidst the storms and earthquakes of history and crisis.

Configured to Christ crucified and having lived daily with the stigmatic wounds of Christ, St. Francis helps to animate and inspire the mission of mercy of the Catholic Church through the centuries.

St. Francis of Assisi intercedes for each of us at every moment to help rebuild the Biblical and Eucharistic evangelizing mission of the Church that Jesus, himself, founded on Long Island and beyond.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your families! May the Light and Love of the Christ Child animate and guide our global Catholic Missionary Spirit this Christmas and throughout the New Year.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend John O. Barres

Bishop of Rockville Centre

The Most Reverend John O. Barres is the Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

Students design and distribute crafts for staff

concept, they produce a development plan and create digital forms for staff members to fill out to order for the crafts. After the orders have been placed, the students can manufacture the right number of crafts and walk around the school and distribute them to their customers.

The purpose of the program is to have students acclimate to working on a multifaceted, long-term project — one that also gives staff and students an opportunity to get to know each other.

“It gives them some new people that are around the building, that aren’t necessarily their teachers, that they can now say hello to in the hallway in passing,” O’Brien said.

Clarke’s Principal Elizabeth Dowling said the project has been an overwhelming success.

“The whole process is really a great experience for them,” she said. “They practiced their social skills, introduced themselves, delivered the product, and really got to know different areas and adults in the building.”

A key element of the class is to teach students in ways that match their interests, which makes them enthusiastic learners.

“They’re very crafty,” Dowling said. “They love hands-on activities, so they’re really engaged when it comes to this type of art.”

The program is made possible by Clarke’s recently upgraded technology room.

“My colleagues and I are lucky enough to have had a full renovation of our classrooms done two summers ago,”

do extraordinary things with them.”

In addition to woodworking crafts, the class has featured 3D modeling and printing, LEGO robot construction and programming, and model rocket launches that occurred earlier this month.

“It’s very fulfilling to see these students come up with a tangible item that they’re proud of, that they made mostly by themselves, and that so many other people in the building get to enjoy,” O’Brien said.

The wood for the project was sourced from an Oyster Bay- based craft shop, Sanctuary Home and Patio, which provided 30 sheets of pine wood that were used to cut out the shapes used in making snowmen.

Sixth-grade students Asad Malik and Caylee Yee were among the six participating students in this class.

“I had fun today,” Malik said of the work he and fellow students completed. His favorite part of making snowmen was adding hats, he said.

O’Brien said. “We have brand new equipment: Electronics, woodworking tools, and 3D printers that can be used to create logos.

“We are really fortunate to be part of this program, because we have so many resources and materials and we get to

Yee’s responsibilities included painting the wood, gluing components together and adding glitter. She looks forward to taking a snowman home.

Dowling was charmed by the students’ work.

“I think they’re beautiful,” she said. “The kids did such a great job. Being one of the staff members who receives (a craft) each month, it’s a special feeling.”

Courtesy Elizabeth Dowling

teacher Kristen o’Brien and 6th grade students parth Kumar and Caylee Yee worked together while decorating snowman-themed arts and crafts.

Festive fun ahead of holidays at Samanea Mall

The Samanea Mall transformed into a winter wonderland on Dec. 14 for its third annual Christmas Village, Fair and Market, and the holiday festivities will continue on next weekend.

The free event offers something for everyone, with highlights including photos with Santa, arts and crafts, and sweet treats available for purchase. Children can enjoy free gifts, while shoppers browse more than 50 unique vendors offering a variety of goods and holiday finds.

The Christmas Village has become a beloved seasonal tradition at the shopping center, providing families and visitors with a festive experience to celebrate the spirit of the season.

The event is free to attend, and doors will open again on Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., for another day of holiday fun. The mall is at 1500 Old Country Road, Westbury.

–Jordan Vallone

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Families flocked to the Samanea Mall in Westbury on Dec. 14 for a festive holiday fair. Theo Kritikos, Raqueba Secharan, Marina Moreno, Gabriella Kritkos, 12, and Nicholas Moreno, 10, had fun in some of the mall’s holiday displays.

Holiday vendors made shopping for gifts easy and fun. Madelyn Maratea of Revel Wellness USA manned a booth on Dec. 14.

Aside from shopping, children were also able to create fun holiday crafts. Raqueba Secharan showed off a handcrafted Christmas tree.

Gabriella Kritikos, 12, showed off some fun, holidaythemed glasses, meant for drinking hot-cocoa.

Friends Joselyn Crus, Sheyla Bonilla, Jackie Muldoon and Jane Sawyer had a blast exploring the Christmas village.

Residency program has perfect board passing rate

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Nassau University Medical Center’s Pediatric Medical Residency Program achieved a 100 percent board passage rate in 2024, far surpassing the national average of 80–82 percent and Long Island’s average. This milestone underscores the strides NUMC, Long Island’s largest safety-net hospital, has made in medical education and pediatric care, the hospital system said in a Dec. 16 news release.

The residency program is one of the largest in New York state, with nearly 300 aspiring doctors across various disciplines. This accomplishment reflects the hospital’s dedication to excellence in training future medical professionals while enhancing patient care, finances, and hospital operations.

“NUMC has made significant strides to elevate our programs and the hospital as a whole,” Megan Ryan, president and chief executive of Nassau Health Care Corporation said. “Our investment in hands-on training opportunities has made our residency program among the best in the region, and this passage rate is reflective of that. Congratulations to the pediatric residents who will now be board-certified physicians caring for our youngest patients.”

Dr. Grace Ting, NUMC’s chief medical officer, attributed the success to the

Herald file

Nassau University Medical Center, above, in East Meadow announced on Dec. 16 that residents in the Pediatric Medical Residency Program achieved a 100 percent board passage rate in 2024.

collaborative efforts of the program.

“This outstanding passage rate is a testament to the dedication of our excellent resident physicians and our fantastic attending physicians and staff who train them,” Ting said. “Our residents have demonstrated remarkable determination and skill, and we are immensely proud to have played an important role in their journey to becoming exceptional pediatricians.”

NUMC’s Graduate Medical Education program is designed to prepare health care providers across a variety of fields with the tools necessary for their future medical career. The hospital boasts a fully accredited program that offers a well-rounded foundation through practice in a wide range of clinical experiences, featuring a diverse population, sophisticated technology and a faculty that maximizes the resident physician’s

■ 100 percent board passage rate in 2024, surpassing the national average of 80 to 82 percent

■ One of the largest residency programs in New York, with nearly 300 residents across various disciplines

■ Fully Accredited Graduate Medical Education program offering comprehensive clinical experience, advanced technology, and a diverse patient population

■ Program focus includes hands-on training, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence in medical education and patient care

■ Key contributors: Resident physicians, attending physicians, and staff

skill and knowledge base.

For more information about NUMC’s residency and fellowship programs, visit NUMC.edu.

Welcome to

Sands Proposes $150M Infrastructure Plan for Nassau County

28,000+ page Draft Environmental Impact Statement with infrastructure modernization investments ready for public review

On On November 20th, Las Vegas Sands offi cially submitted its Draft Environmental Impact Statement to the Nassau County Legislature for its proposed worldclass integrated resort at the site of the Nassau Coliseum. The submission followed a vote by the Nassau County Legislature which unanimously confi rmed that the document is complete, addresses all required topics, and is now available for public review.

The DEIS, a 28,000+ page, 6-foot tall document, is the most comprehensive environmental impact statement ever presented on Long Island, refl ecting Las Vegas Sands’ steadfast commitment to sustainable development and community investment. “We are grateful to the Nassau County Legislature for its thorough review of the completeness of our environmental impact statement. This over 28,000-page document further demonstrates Sands’ commitment to comprehensively and holistically mitigate the potential impacts of our transformative project at the site of the Nassau Coliseum. We are equally grateful to the many Long Islanders and local organizations that continue to come to the table and work with us to create opportunity and build a better, more inclusive, more sustainable community for all,” said Michael Levoff , Las Vegas Sands’ Senior Vice President of Strategy and Public Aff airs.

Highlights of the DEIS, prepared by leading engineering fi rm VHB, include more than $150 million in mitigation investments, targeting enhancement of infrastructure and beautifi cation of Uniondale and other local, historically disinvested

communities. These investments aim to modernize central Nassau County to support a multi-billion dollar investment by Las Vegas Sands while also unlocking additional economic development opportunities for the county and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Key mitigation measures, funded privately by Sands include:

• Modernizing the Meadowbrook Parkway: Adding additional capacity and reconstructing bridges to ease congestion on this historically overburdened corridor. This critical improvement will not require land takings but will require state approval.

• New Water Well for Uniondale: Enhancing a local water district

that has been operating in a defi cit for many years to ensure longterm sustainability and reliability of the project while providing a much-needed public benefi t.

• Electric Substation Expansion: Upgrading energy infrastructure in the area to meet growing demand and support regional modernization.

• Beautification Projects: Improving public spaces and the aesthetic appeal of the area to benefi t both residents and visitors.

“We are proud to present one of the most comprehensive environmental impact statements ever prepared on Long Island. Working with Sands on this project has been a pleasure. Whenever a potential impact was identifi ed, the company consistently demonstrated its commitment to mitigate these issues, ensuring that both the community and the environment were respected and protected,” said Terri Elkowitz, Senior Principal at VHB.

The DEIS document is now available for public review on the Nassau County Legislature website, and comments can be submitted through Jan. 6, 2025. The Legislature’s retained engineering experts will diligently review the document before making recommendations on a Final Environmental Impact Statement which is expected to be adopted sometime next Spring.

The Sands project is committed to a transparent, communitycentered process, inviting residents, stakeholders, and local leaders to provide input during the public comment period. To sign a letter of support for the project, go to SandsNewYork.com

Photos provided by Sands

Sands team members and supporters at the DEIS hearing

Community members supporting Sands at the environmental scoping session

Celebrating Innovation and Legacy at the Air & Space Gala

The Cradle of Aviation Museum’s annual Air & Space Gala on November 7th was a shining celebration of Long Island’s rich aerospace and defense legacy. Sands proudly sponsored this inspiring event, which honored individuals shaping the future of innovation: Senior Vice President of Lunar Permanence at Blue Origin, John Couluris, and Chair & Chief Executive Officer for Vantage Group, George Casey, and Baldwin native and NASA Astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli.

Funds raised by the Gala support the museum’s mission to preserve Long Island’s rich aerospace history and expand its educational impact. Proceeds from the event fund essential programs, including STEM initiatives that inspire middle and high school students, as well as partnerships with local elementary schools. The Gala is also a platform to honor significant

historical milestones and recognize outstanding leaders in the aerospace community.

The evening’s highlights featured a stunning performance by the Freeport Choir, who delivered heartfelt renditions of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America."

The keynote speaker, NASA Astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli captivated attendees with her inspiring journey from Long Island to space and her aspirations for lunar exploration. The evening was concluded with a dynamic panel discussion exploring the intersection of technology, education, and space exploration, emphasizing Long Island’s pivotal role in the aerospace industry.

Sands is honored to support events that showcase our community's rich history, celebrate groundbreaking achievements, and inspire future generations to reach for the stars.

Sands New York Celebrates Long Island Heroes at 2024 Red Cross Gala

The 2024 Long Island Heroes Celebration, hosted by the American Red Cross on Nov. 14, was a night of inspiration and generosity, raising an impressive $300,000 to support life-saving Red Cross programs. Held at the Cradle of Aviation, the event recognized extraordinary individuals and organizations whose service exemplifies the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross. Attendees were treated to moving tributes and heartfelt stories of resilience, with honorees celebrated for their unwavering commitment to the community.

John Ledecky, owner of the Stanley Cup-winning New York Islanders, was named the Humanitarian Honoree for his philanthropic leadership and dedication to uplifting Long Islanders. Additional honorees included the Good Samaritan Honorees, whose acts of courage saved a family from a home fire in their town of Glen Cove, earning them a standing ovation from the crowd.

Sands New York proudly served as a sponsor of the event, with a full table of enthusiastic guests joining the celebration. Reflecting on the gala, Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Sands New York,

shared, “The Red Cross has been a steadfast partner to Long Islanders through countless storms and disasters, offering relief and hope in our most challenging moments. Sands New York is honored to support their mission and celebrate the heroes who embody the spirit of resilience and service.” The funds raised will help sustain critical Red Cross programs, including disaster preparedness, blood donation drives, and support for military families. The evening underscored the profound impact of collective action in creating stronger, more resilient communities, with Sands New York reaffirming its commitment to supporting organizations that make a lasting difference.

Family & Children’s Association Gala Showcases Community Impact and Partnership

On Nov. 14, the Family & Children’s Association held its annual Fall Harvest Celebration at The Heritage Club in Bethpage, bringing together supporters and partners to honor the organization’s critical work in serving vulnerable populations across Long Island. The event highlighted FCA’s dedication to addressing pressing issues, from food insecurity to mental health services, and raised vital funds to sustain its life-changing programs. As a key sponsor, Sands New York underscored its deep-rooted commitment to partnering with FCA in strengthening the Long Island community. Earlier this year, Sands announced a $200,000 donation to expand FCA’s offerings,

enabling the organization to broaden its reach and address gaps in essential services. This ongoing collaboration reflects a shared vision of fostering stability, opportunity, and hope for residents in need.

“Sands New York has been proud to support the Family & Children’s Association and their tireless work to improve lives across Long Island,” said Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Sands New York.

“This celebration is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions and the incredible impact we can make together.”

The Fall Harvest Celebration

featured inspiring stories from those directly impacted by FCA’s programs, reinforcing the importance of collective action in tackling challenges like poverty, addiction, and access to healthcare.

The evening was a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of Long Islanders—and of the transformative potential of strategic partnerships like the one between FCA and Sands New York.

LI TODAY

Long Island Fight for Charity: A Knockout Success

The Long Island Fight for Charity took center stage on Nov. 25, 2024, delivering a thrilling mix of heart-pounding action and heartwarming philanthropy. Local business leaders laced up their gloves for an unforgettable evening of boxing, camaraderie, and community impact, raising an incredible $2 million for charities including Long Island Community Chest, EAC Network and many other deserving causes and organizations, chosen by the boxers themselves. Sands New York was proud to support this event as a sponsor for the second year in a row.

The star-studded event featured standout matches, including bouts by Sammy Chu and Robert Madden. Sammy Chu was escorted to the ring by former Governor and Sands Senior Vice President David Paterson. The two had shared an especially memorable moment in a recent training session at the Academy of Boxing in Huntington, where the Governor and Sammy sparred in the ring. Chu’s bout, the fi nal fi ght of the night, brought the crowd to its feet with his determination and skill.

Adding to the excitement was a diverse array of food and drink from local vendors, creating a festive atmosphere that highlighted Long Island’s vibrant community spirit. As always, the Fight for Charity proved to be more than a boxing event—it was a celebration of resilience, generosity, and the power of coming together for a cause.

The event’s resounding success underscores its role as one of Long Island’s premier charitable evenings, combining athleticism and altruism to support those in need. Here's to another knockout year of giving back!

Photo provided by Sands

The Sands New York team attends the 16th Annual Alumni and FRIENDS Reception, celebrating the accomplishments of NYIT's School of Architecture and supporting scholarships, special projects, and industry collaboration.

Photo provided by Sands

The Sands New York team was proud to attend the Westbury Arts Fall Gala, supporting the organization's mission to connect, inspire, and educate the community through arts and culture. The event, themed "A Pop of Color - Let Your Inner Colors Shine," celebrated the achievements of distinguished honorees and highlighted the importance of the arts in Long Island’s cultural landscape.

STEPPING OUT

Merry eatings

‘Tis the season for a

By Karen Bloom

ost of us would agree that there’s almost nothing better than the aroma of fresh-baked goodies wafting through the house. Especially during holiday time. Nothing says “love” like fresh baked cookies and treats. So give the gift of homemade goodness, whether it’s a gift platter or by hosting family and friends for a cookie exchange. Everyone can get in on the act and share their creations all around.

Your gang will enjoy tasting these luscious creations in your makeshift holiday workshop.

Chocolate Mint Squares

Notes of crisp peppermint perfectly complement the flavors of coffee in this festive alternative to a brownie. Add some crushed peppermint to each cookie to create a beautiful and seasonal presentation.

Dough

• 1/3 cup baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chopped pecans, optional

• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

Frosting

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar

• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

• 2 tablespoons milk

Glaze

• 3 tablespoons baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish

• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9” x 9” pan.

To make the dough: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, salt and eggs.

Add the chocolate mixture, stirring to combine, then the flour, nuts and peppermint, mixing until well-blended.

Pour the batter into the pan. Bake the squares for 25 minutes. Remove them from the oven, and

‘Holiday Joy’

cool to room temperature. Remove them from the oven, and cool to room temperature. While cooling make the frosting and glaze.

To make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter or margarine, peppermint and milk. Spread the frosting over the cooled squares in a thin layer.

To make the glaze: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter or margarine. Drizzle this over the frosted squares, and sprinkle with the crushed peppermint candy. Refrigerate the squares until they’re well-chilled. To serve, cut into 1 1/2” squares.

Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies

You can’t spin these dreidels, but you sure can gobble them up. The versatile dough that can be customized to create chocolate or colored cookies.

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• Dreidel-shaped cookie cutter

• Piping bag

• Blue frosting

Cookie dough

In a medium-size bowl, mix the flour and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar, stir in the egg, then the corn syrup and vanilla extract. One third at a time, add the flour mixture until thoroughly mixed.

Pat the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until firm enough to roll. If it is too firm, soften at room temperature for 5 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Roll one disk of dough between two pieces of waxed paper or

plastic wrap, 1/4 inch thick. Remove the top sheet and cut out the cookies with cookie cutters.

Using a metal spatula, transfer the shapes to baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until cookies start to brown lightly around the edges. Remove the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes.

Using a metal spatula, transfer the cookies to racks and cool completely before frosting and decorating. Makes 12 to 50 cookies, depending on their size.

For chocolate dough: After the last third of flour has been added to the dough, mix in 1 ounce melted, slightly cooled unsweetened chocolate. Use your hands to knead in the chocolate.

For colored dough: Divide the dough into portions and use a toothpick to add food coloring paste (available at party supply stores) to each one. Knead until the color is evenly distributed. For a flavor surprise, omit the vanilla extract and add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the yellow dough, mint extract to the green dough, and strawberry extract to the red dough.

How to prepare

Cut out the dreidels from the rolled-out dough and bake as directed (if you cant find a dreidel cookie cutter, make a pattern out of lightweight cardboard). When cooled, pipe one of the four classic dreidel symbols on each cookie (either gimel, shin, nun, or hay) with blue frosting.

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 1-1/2 cups flour

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• 44 candy-coated chocolate pieces

• 88 semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

• 44 pretzels, broken into 1-inch pieces

Heat oven to 350° F.

Beat peanut butter, butter and sugars in large bowl with mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until blended. Add combined flour and baking soda; mix well.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Bake 7 to 9 min. or until cookies are just set.

Place 1 chocolate piece immediately in center of each cookie for a nose (press down slightly if cookies aren’t flat enough), 2 chocolate chips for eyes, and 2 pretzel pieces at top of cookie for antlers. Carefully remove cookies to wire rack; cool completely.

Beloved holiday tunes are combined with a musical cabaret in a joyous over-the-top spectacle that is the Madison Theatre’s holiday celebration. The cast of 48 performers enthusiastically share all the delights of the season in this show, now in its 11th year, created by Artistic Director Angelo Fraboni. The vibrant cast includes Broadway performers. and Molloy University’s pre-professional CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory students “Holiday Joy” invites everyone to take a journey through the many worlds of the holidays — through song and dance — in the fast- paced spectacle. Timeless songs such as “We Need A Little Christmas” are brought to life in joyful arrangements, accompanied by a live band.

Friday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m. ; Saturday, Dec. 21, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 22, 3 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or madisontheatreny. org.

Yellow Brick Joel

Relive the classic songs that define generations. 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! Groove along to the vibe 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.

Friday, Dec. 27, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $28. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com.

Chocolate Mint Squares Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

THE Your Neighborhood

Jan. 3

‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’

Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got much too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Friday, Jan. 3 , 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — has been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast coast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer on a Friday night, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Countdown

to 12

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back its popular “Noon” Year’s Eve family party, Sunday, dec. 31, noon4 p.m. This year’s event will be making an intergalactic leap with activities starting at 11 a.m., the addition of a third ball drop, plus space-themed crafts, entertainment and a confettifilled dance party. The day’s celebration starts and ends with Times Square-style ball drops (noon, 2 and 4 p.m.). In between the opening and closing ball drops, families will make themed crafts and enjoy the DJ-led dance party.

All activities are drop-in and run through 3:45 p.m. $20 adults and children, $18 seniors, members free. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Bingo at Beth-El

Get your game on at a weekly bingo game at East Meadow BethEl Jewish Center, starting at 6 p.m.

Prizes, progressive games, bell jar prizes and refreshments will be provided. Proof of vaccination is required. 1400 Prospect Ave., in East Meadow. For information, contact (516) 483-4205.

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, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Saturday, dec. 21, starting at 9 a.m. The group will meet in parking lot #3. 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) 4679498. Rain, snow or temperature below 25 degrees will cancel the bird walk. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon.org.

BOE meets

The East Meadow Board of Education hosts its first meeting of the New Year, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 7 p.m., at the Salisbury School. The agenda and additional information can be found online at EMUFSD.us. A meeting link with the live stream can be found on YouTube. 718

The Plain Road, Westbury Noon Year’s Eve Ring in the New Year early at the East Meadow Public Library, Monday, dec. 30. Children of all ages can enjoy a New Year’s Eve party well before the traditional midnight countdown, starting at 11 a.m., and For more information, visit EastMeadow. info. 1886 Front St., East Meadow.

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.

Advent season at Holy Trinity

Holy Trinity Orthodox Church holds English-language Advent services up until Sunday, Dec. 22., at 9:30 a.m. The 100-year-old church invites the community to worship with them during the holy season. 369 Green Ave. in East Meadow. For more, visit htocem.org.

Christmas Day Divine Liturgy

Holy Trinity Orthodox Church celebrates the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Christmas), Wednesday, Dec. 25, 9:30 a.m. The service will be followed by a festive Christmas brunch. All services are conducted in English and streamed on facebook. com/htocem. For more information, call (516) 4833649, email info@htocem.org or visit htocem.org (including the full liturgical schedule for the Christmas and Theophany season). 369 Green Ave., East Meadow.

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.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

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

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Dec. 20, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 26, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 27, 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m.; 6: 15 p.m.; also Dec. 28-30. 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

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2021-G, MORTGAGEBACKED SECURITIES, SERIES 2021G, BY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff -against- MARIE LOURDES ROMULUS; PHANA ROMULUS; DYNO ROMULUS; MARIE ROMULUS; NERLANDE JEAN FRANCOIS, POSSIBLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARQUES ROMULUS; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF MARQUES ROMULUS; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; ETR INC.; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Index No. 601525/2024. Mortgaged Premises: 564 Broadway Westbury, NY 11590 Section: 11 Block: 99 Lots: 7-9 & 42 To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $$344,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on August 28, 2006, in Book M30904, Page 564, Control Number 294, covering the premises known as 564 Broadway, Westbury, NY 11590. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the

mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP

1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 150181

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of JAY Quickfood LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/31/2024. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22106 92nd Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 150150

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU CITIMORTGAGE, INC. Plaintiff, -againstROBERT ZIMMERMAN, AS TRUSTEE OF THE GERALDINE ZIMMERMAN FAMILY TRUST, DATED 3/10/17; THE UNKOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERALDINE ZIMMERMAN if living and if dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the amended verified complaint; QUEENS COUNTY SAVINGS BANK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; STATE OF NEW YORK, DEPARTMENT OF TAX & FINANCE, ROBERT ZIMMERMAN, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE

ZIMMERMAN; DARLENE EUSTACE A/K/A DARLENE ZIMMERMAN, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE ZIMMERMAN; JEFFREY BEHAR, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE ZIMMERMAN; TROY BEHAR, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE ZIMMERMAN; J.B. (MINOR) C/O JEFFREY BEHAR, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE ZIMMERMAN; HARVE SIMMONS, AS HEIR AT LAW OF THE ESTATE OF GERLADINE ZIMMERMAN; HARRY SIMMONS S/H/A JOHN DOE # 1; AMY ZIMMERMAN S/H/A JANE DOE #1; Defendant(s).

Index No. 615658/2023

Date Filed: 9/26/2023

Plaintiff designates NASSAU County as the place of trial based on the location of the mortgaged premises in this action. We are attempting to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. To the above-named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the amended verified complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the amended verified complaint is not served with this supplemental summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this supplemental summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this supplemental summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) or within (60) days after service of this supplemental summons if it is the United States of America; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the amended verified complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this supplemental summons and amended verified complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the supplemental summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR

THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing supplemental summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Honorable ELIZABETH FOX-McDONOUGH, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Nassau County, dated the 25TH day of OCTOBER, 2024 and duly entered in the office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, State of New York.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

This is an action to foreclose a mortgage lien on the premises described herein. The object of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage executed by DIANE N. ZIMMERMAN and GERALDINE ZIMMERMAN, as Mortgagors, to ABN AMRO MORTGAGE GROUP, INC., a Mortgage to secure $252,000.00 and interest, dated January 11, 2007, (the First Mortgage), which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on February 26, 2007 in Liber: 31588, Page: 654 which was assigned to CITIBANK, N.A. by Assignment of Mortgage dated February 20, 2013, which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on June 26, 2013 in Liber: 38852, Page: 342. And to foreclose on a Mortgage executed by GERALDINE ZIMMERMAN BY DIANE ZIMMERMAN AS HER ATTORNEY IN FACT AND DIANE N. ZIMMERMAN, as Mortgagors, to CITIBANK, N.A., a Mortgage to secure $3,892.68 and interest, dated June 14, 2013, (the Second Mortgage), which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on June 26, 2013 in Liber: 38852, Page: 344 which loan was consolidated by a Consolidation, Extension & Modification Agreement dated June 14, 2013, executed by GERALDINE ZIMMERMAN BY DIANE ZIMMERMAN AS HER ATTORNEY IN FACT AND DIANE N. ZIMMERMAN which consolidated the First Mortgage and the Second Mortgage to form a single lien in the amount of $233,900.00 which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on June 26, 2013 in Liber: 38852, Page: 363, which was assigned to CITIMORTGAGE, INC. by Assignment of Mortgage dated August 21, 2023, which is TO BE RECORDED in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County, covering premises known as 1783 EVERETT PL, EAST MEADOW, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NY 11554 (SECTION: 50

Happy 100th birthday, Hellen Beitter

East Meadow resident Hellen Beitter celebrated her 100th birthday last month at Levittown Hall, with Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray in attendance to mark the special occasion.

Public Notices

BLOCK: 323 LOT: 154). SCHEDULE A ANNEXED HERETO

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above. Dated: Manhasset, New York, NOVEMBER 26, 2024, DAVID A. GALLO & ASSOCIATES LLP, By: /S/ DAVID A. GALLO DAVID A. GALLO, ESQ., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 47 Hillside Avenue - 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030, (516) 583-5330 (516) 583-5333 - fax Schedule A- Description ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as and by Part of Lot Number 147 and 148 on a certain map entitled, “Map of Hempstead Lawns, Section No. 4, situated at East Meadow, Nassau County, New York, Property of O.L. Schwencke Land and Investment Company, Surveyed in 1909 by Fairfield & Dow,” and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on May 22, 1909, as Map Number 241, New Number 1845, which said part of lots when taken together are more particularly bounded and described, according to said map, as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the northwesterly side of Everett Place, formerly known as Evergreen Place, distant 95.00 feet northwesterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the northwesterly side of Everett Place with the northeasterly side of Newbridge Avenue, also known as Newbridge Road; RUNNING THENCE northwesterly at right angles to Evergreen Place 130.00 feet; RUNNING THENCE northeasterly parallel with Everett Place 55.00 feet; RUNNING THENCE southeasterly at right angles to Everett Place 130.00 feet to the northwesterly side of Everett Place; and

RUNNING THENCE southwesterly along the northwesterly side of Everett Place, 55.00 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING. 150264

LEGAL NOTICE Notice hereby given that a license, application ID NA-NA-0340-24-107886 for Liquor, Wine, Beer and Cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell Liquor, Wine, Beer and Cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 2061-2063 Hempstead Tpke, NY County of Nassau for On Premises Consumption. “Rincon Colombiano Rest Bar & Bakery Corp 150568

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 2005-06CB), Plaintiff, v. GARY ROSENBERG A/K/A GARY S. ROSENBERG, 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 November 21, 2024, I, John G. Kennedy, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on January 23, 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: 24 Sugar Maple Rd Levittown, NY 11756 SBL. No.: 45-156-5 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. 000278/2017 in the amount of $630,371.21 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 150560

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff AGAINST RICHARD ORTIZ, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 16, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 16, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 7 Mockingbird Lane, Levittown, NY 11756. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Levittown, near Hicksville, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 45, Block 172, Lot 0048. Approximate amount of judgment $585,728.31 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604115/2018. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening

practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Ralph J. Madalena, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 19-001737 83368 150530

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. MICHELLE DEANGELIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 5, 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 22, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 712 Morris Court, East Meadow, NY 11554. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 554 and Lot 20. Approximate amount of judgment is $496,728.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #617604/2022. Cash will not be accepted. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 150538

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

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

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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

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Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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

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Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various

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TMaking an old home newer

Q. We looked at a home to buy, and saw that the stairs from the first to the second floor were leaning. We keep seeing this in homes that we’re interested in. Even though we will get a home inspection, can you tell us, more specifically, what causes this, and whether it’s a reason not to be interested in any particular house?

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A. Leaning stairs are usually improperly supported. Because stairs go through an opening between floors, their weight must be supported all around the opening. Unfortunately, this leaning and sagging condition is not uncommon, especially in older homes that were built before there were building codes and official building inspections by trained individuals who had to sign off on the way a home was framed. Many homes were framed by carpenters who had knowledge of materials and how to join them to create beautiful homes, without necessarily being formally educated in the engineering, science and math required to predict, and thereby avoid, failure.

To the trained professional, the stair condition you describe is considered a failure, because the weight of the stairs and the surrounding structure were not resolved to keep everything aligned. The leaning staircase was predictable, but not avoided. In some modern cases, when inspectors aren’t called before the framing is covered in finishes such as wallboard or woodwork, an official inspection isn’t done, and many inspectors will rely on a letter from a licensed architect or engineer.

You should be made aware that this practice of asking for letters may not be of much assurance, because not seeing the conditions and still writing a letter can be a problem. Letters don’t hold up buildings, but the shifting of the task is meant to shift responsibility, and unless the licensed professional really examines the conditions fully, you may just go through a shifting of blame similar to the shifting stairs.

The remedy is to lift the stairs into position while remediating the structure. In some cases, a column at the lowest level was required and not installed; in others, the horizontal floor joists surrounding the stairwell weren’t the right size; and in other cases, the stair may have been framed and attached to the surrounding structure incorrectly. Many people never consider the impact of an adult transferring their weight, with gravity, to the next step, literally falling a step at a time, multiplying their mass plus gravity.

In one instance I investigated, an air conditioning installer “needed” to cut through the main beam just below the stair landing so that only the air duct was holding the stairs’ weight, which, by the time I arrived, had dropped 4 inches. The air duct was redirected and the beam had to be replaced, which turned out to be an involved procedure. If the house has plaster walls, the repair is more expensive and, in either case, the added framing may be costly. It might be a reason to keep looking. Good luck!

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Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly

Atelevision era has ended. Last Friday night’s “Blue Bloods” episode was the last. It has been canceled by CBS despite having consistently high ratings and, in my opinion, having been the best show on television during its 14-season run on the network. I don’t profess to be a media critic, but I am a lifelong New Yorker who appreciated the firstclass acting of a cast led by Tom Selleck, and the show’s proud espousal of support for the police and its advocacy of traditional family values.

“Blue Bloods” focuses on four generations of the Reagan family in New York law enforcement — the “Reagan family business.” Frank Reagan, played by Selleck, is the NYPD commissioner. His father, Henry, is a former commissioner. His sons, Danny, a detective, and Jamie,

in case you’re still counting, Election Day happened six weeks ago, and all of the post-mortems on both sides reached the same conclusion: The No. 1 issue for voters was the economy, and the Democrats failed to pay attention to that issue, even though James Carville has been telling his party that “It’s the economy, stupid,” since 1992.

As we approach a new year, nothing has changed. The voters voted their pocketbooks, and they will judge all national and state politicians by what they do to ease people’s financial tensions. Incoming President Donald Trump says he hasn’t forgotten about his promise to cut the price of basic necessities, and his legacy will be judged by the promises he will keep.

Gov. Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, has gotten the message, and will propose a 2025 budget that will be loaded with pro-

a sergeant, as well as Jamie’s wife, Janko, are all NYPD, and his daughter, Erin, is a prosecutor in the district attorney’s office. An older son, Joe, was killed in the line of duty. His son, Joe Hill, previously unknown to the family, recently appeared on the NYPD scene using his mother’s last name.

consequences, including being secondguessed by critics who have never had to confront professional killers, violent drug dealers or crazed madmen.

Was it canceled for resisting corporate pressure to be more ‘woke’?

Besides the expected emphasis on crime solving, “Blue Bloods” shows the realities of cops’ lives and the impact that those often harsh realities have on their families’ day-to-day lives. Unlike almost every other crime drama series, “Blue Bloods” never succumbed to political or corporate pressure to portray cops in a negative light, even at the height (or the depth) of the Defund the Police movement, which was all the rage in 2020.

Not that it shows cops to be perfect. Just human — people who are willing to put their lives on the line for all the rest of us. People who have to make lifechanging decisions and live with the

As a recent Newsday story pointed out, “Blue Bloods” has a particularly strong following on Long Island, where many police officers and their families and friends live, as well as the many thousands of commuters who regularly travel to the city for work or entertainment.

I admit to having a bias. My father was a member of the NYPD for more than three decades before he retired as a lieutenant. I also have friends who have been officers in the NYPD as well as the Nassau and Suffolk County police departments. It was most impactful to be able to closely observe police work during my 18 years on the House Homeland Security Committee.

I had the chance to meet the “Blue Bloods” cast during several visits to their studio in Brooklyn, where they filmed the Sunday-family-dinner scenes,

and other shooting locations on Long Island. All are outstanding people, especially Selleck; Donnie Wahlberg, who played Danny; and Will Estes, who played Jamie. So, too, is Steve Schirripa (Anthony Abetemarco), whom I’d met before, a great guy who’s as genuine as the investigator he plays on the show.

Believe me, I’m not a star-struck guy. Being in public life, I’ve met a number of famous people and celebrities who are jerks. The “Blue Bloods” guys are the real deal.

The unanswered question is why CBS canceled a show that had consistently positive ratings for so many seasons and such a loyal, supportive fan base. Was it because “Blue Bloods” resisted corporate pressure to be more progressive and ‘woke’? Were its traditional values, exemplified by support for the police, the family dinner and strong patriotism, too out of touch for some of its advertisers? No matter. “Blue Bloods” fans will always have the memories.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

At least Governor Hochul got the message

grams to help wage earners on many levels. Her first salvo into the coming year is an interesting one. She wants to give every family that makes less than $300,000 a check from the state for $500, and individuals who make less than $150,000 a onetime payment of $300.

Fiscal conservatives and budget hawks jumped on the plan with all kinds of criticism, but it will take more than a few barbs to kill Hochul’s one-shot anti-inflation proposal. Why is this plan being proposed, and where would the money come from?

swhen she announces her proposed budget in late January. Every one of the ideas in her plan will be aimed at saving people money.

he’ll propose a 2025 budget loaded with programs to help wage earners.

During the coronavirus pandemic, the state collected a bonanza of tax revenue. Housebound voters purchased billions of dollars’ worth of necessities, and the state was the beneficiary. Those funds are sitting in some budget account, and if the governor doesn’t spend them first, the State Legislature surely will.

The rebate proposal is just one of many taxpayer benefits that Hochul will announce. There are numerous ways to reward consumers, and the governor can be the first one to offer them

Aside from the fact that Hochul is paying attention to the message of this year’s election, she is also keeping an eye on the political calendar. She will be seeking re-election in 2026, and now is as good a time as ever to make proposals that appeal to the average voter. The timing is important, because there are always a few ambitious Democrats who think they can do a better job, as well as some Republicans who are looking for promotions.

Even New York City Mayor Eric Adams has climbed on the tax-cutting bandwagon. He has proposed a modest cut for people on the lowest rung of the income ladder, but a check in the mail can be a much more potent gift for a voter in 2025.

Is a rebate check a new political idea? Some years back, when the state was running the Long Island Lighting Company, then Gov. George Pataki

approved a one-time payment for utility customers. It was an instant hit. Are there many ways to put money in voters’ wallets? From personal experience, I can think of a few. While serving as chair of the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee, I Iearned a lot about sales taxes. New York’s tax laws cover thousands of day-to-day household items. Some of those taxes could be eliminated, and consumers would know very quickly why their expenses went down. The flip side of sales tax cuts is that they cost the state money, but if there’s money in the cupboard, why not spend it?

In the weeks ahead, New York voters will be romanced with one proposal after another. The trick for the governor is to be the first one to come up new ideas that the Legislature will have a hard time rejecting. It’s time for the state to start giving back, even if that comes in small pieces.

Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

Suffolk C.C. is shortchanging journalism

in a decision that has left many Long Island journalists and educators dismayed, Suffolk County Community College has chosen to eliminate its journalism major.

The move, characterized as a cost-cutting measure in response to declining enrollment and the purportedly dim career prospects of students who study journalism, is not only shortsighted, but runs counter to the college’s mission of preparing students to transfer to fouryear institutions where they can follow their chosen paths to future success.

For years, SCCC has prided itself on serving as a launching pad for students aiming to continue their education at schools such as Adelphi, Hofstra and Stony Brook universities — institutions with thriving journalism and communications programs. Suffolk’s own commercials proclaim how proud the school is to propel two-year students to fouryear schools.

Journalism is not only a viable academic path at these schools; it is also a critical discipline that is nothing less than the backbone of a functioning democracy. By shuttering the journalism major, SCCC sends a troubling message about the value it places on media literacy, civic engagement and students’ preparation for essential careers in public service, accountability and compelling storytelling.

The college’s decision is proving to be a controversial one, given that it came despite opposition from SCCC’s own faculty. In three separate votes, educators overwhelmingly rejected the proposal to discontinue the program. Such strong opposition suggests that those closest to

letters

Those excessive red-light-camera fines

To the Editor:

the educational process, who teach, mentor and advise students, understand the importance of maintaining a journalism program, even at a time when there couldn’t be more challenges for the profession.

The executive dean ultimately overrode those votes, citing enrollment declines and data from the New York State Department of Labor projecting limited growth in journalism jobs.

Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, however, show a more robust industry despite the decline in the number and readership of newspapers. The SCCC decision fails to account for the evolving nature of journalism and its continued relevance in a mediasaturated world. The field is not disappearing; it is being transformed, and students deserve the opportunity to learn the skills needed to adapt to this new media landscape.

Content creation, social media management, podcasting, multimedia reporting and data journalism are just a few of the avenues now available to those with a foundation in journalism. Furthermore, the skills taught in a journalism program — writing, research, critical thinking and ethical reasoning — are transferable to a wide range of careers.

As it happens, the State University of New York has a system-wide community journalism program, the Institute for Local News, that provides students with real-world experience at local media outlets. Ironically, SCCC is the largest college by enrollment in the SUNY system. And we should note that its sister school, Nassau Community College, also offers journalism classes, but has no

If you haven’t heard, it seems a state appeals court has found that Nassau County has been adding illegal fees to red-light-camera tickets over the past 10 years — $100 on a $150 ticket. Ouch. I know — just like you, I’m shocked. Shocked, I tell ya. OK, not really.

But here’s the thing: Some of our dear legislators don’t wanna give back the money that was taken from us! Yeah, another shock.

I guess we’ll just see how that little bit of business plays out, but there is one more thing I’d like to bring up again. One of the biggest complaints about the redlight cams is the rear-end collisions they cause. Not being one to complain without offering a solution, I’d like to re-introduce my simple solution that would solve the problem immediately. Simple countdown clocks! There is absolutely no excuse why there shouldn’t be one hanging from every traffic light at a

journalism major.

The Herald Community Newspapers have for years invited journalism students from colleges across Long Island to work as interns, and the company is currently in partnership with Hofstra on a program in which students will join forces with Herald journalists on a series of stories, as well as with Stony Brook’s Working Newsroom, in which students will pitch and write stories. All of the stories will be published in the Heralds.

SCCC is targeting other programs and majors that fail to meet certain enrollment and job market criteria, and those decisions signal a troubling trend of prioritizing short-term metrics over longterm educational value. While budget constraints are an undeniable reality for most institutions, their decisions about academic programs should be guided by more than just numbers. They should reflect a commitment to the colleges’ missions and to the needs of their students.

If SCCC is truly committed to preparing students for transfer and future success, it must reconsider the elimination of its journalism major. A flourishing journalism program would not only support the college’s academic reputation, but also affirm its dedication to producing graduates who are informed, articulate and passionate about engaging with the world.

Bottom-line-focused decisions may balance budgets in the moment, but they risk undermining the broader purpose of education: to prepare students not only for jobs but also for meaningful, informed lives.

We can reform school funding without harming schools

the needs of our public schools, teachers, students and parents are constantly evolving. Yet despite these changes, New York state continues to rely on an outdated funding formula based on old data.

This month, the Rockefeller Institute of Government released a comprehensive report analyzing the state’s intricate foundation aid formula, the mechanism that allocates operating aid to school districts across the state. Its recommendations demand our collective attention — not just mine, as a policymaker, but also yours, as educators, parents and taxpayers. Together we can advocate for a fairer, more effective funding system that meets the needs of today’s students.

New York’s foundation aid formula, devised in 2007, was designed to create a fair and predictable school funding system. In the 17 years since, however, the formula has remained unchanged, relying on outdated data, such as population figures from the 2000 census and antiquated measures of poverty and student

needs. For Long Island, where property taxes are among the nation’s highest, this outdated system places an unfair burden on local taxpayers. Despite the fact that we host some of the state’s topperforming schools, the current formula fails to properly account for rising costs or the growing demand for mental health and special-education services.

oGov. Kathy Hochul’s approach to addressing the outdated foundation aid formula during this year’s budget negotiations more than missed the mark. Her proposal to eliminate the “hold harmless” provision — which ensures that school districts do not receive less foundation aid than they have in previous years — may have made headlines, but it failed to tackle the core issue: The formula itself is fundamentally flawed. The governor didn’t take into account increased costs, and the reality that many expenses remain fixed, even as student enrollment fluctuates. The widespread unpopularity of Hochul’s proposed cuts, including opposition within her own party, ultimately led to the decision to commission the Rockefeller Institute to review the formula and provide recommendations in a report.

The report offers the following recommendations to modernize the foundation aid formula:

■ Phase out 50 percent of “hold harmless” over five years as Foundation Aid formula reforms are made.

n Long Island, an outdated aid formula unfairly burdens local taxpayers.

■ Allow districts to increase their unrestricted year-end fund balance to 10 percent.

■ Replace the current outof-date poverty measures with new sources of community and family-level wealth metrics.

■ Provide aid for English Language Learner students based on their level of need.

■ Update the Regional Cost Index so it provides a more localized measurement of labor market conditions.

■ Update measurements of the wealth capacity of school districts to better align their expected local share of school funding with current local economic conditions.

■ Eliminate the minimum $500-perpupil foundation aid allocation for the wealthiest districts, and reallocate the $41 million that would be saved through this measure.

■ Remove funding for students with

disabilities from the foundation aid formula, and consolidate all funding for those students under existing categorical aid structures.

While these recommendations warrant further analysis to assess the impact they would have on Long Island school districts, any changes to the foundation aid formula included in next year’s budget must be phased in gradually to prevent sudden disruptions in funding. Equally important, the process must be transparent, enabling school districts to plan effectively and adapt to adjustments.

The five public hearings held across the state during the research phase of the institute’s report underscored a consistent message from advocates and administrators: School districts and communities desperately need reliable and predictable funding streams from the state.

Education is one of the most critical investments in our future, and the way we fund it reflects our values and priorities as a state. Reforming the foundation aid formula is no small task, but it’s one we can no longer afford to delay. For Long Island families, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and we need to ensure that our schools are equipped to meet the needs of every student.

Ed Ra represents the 19th Assembly District.

red-light-cam intersection. Problem solved. You’re welcome.

FRED GEFEN Woodmere

More local memories of Jimmy Breslin

To the Editor:

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peter King’s column “Remembering Jimmy Breslin, a legend in New York journalism” (Dec. 5-11). It brought back so many memories. Breslin used to call my late husband, Marvin Bernstein, every Sunday night for the news about the Nassau County Supreme Court. Marvin was the public information officer at the courthouse, and Jimmy kept him busy! Thanks for the column, Mr. King!

SANDY BERNSTEIN East Meadow

The Sands proposal: ‘right location, wrong project’

To the Editor:

Las Vegas Sands’ proposal for an

integrated casino-resort in the Nassau County Hub a very bad idea. Right location, wrong project! Are the risks to our suburban lifestyle and environment worth the grossly exaggerated benefits projected? There were so many assumptions in the draft environment impact statement, and so much information omitted.

I am strongly opposed to the proposed project at the Hub. There are better alternatives that would benefit all Nassau County residents, but the people we rely on to protect our interests and preserve our suburban way of life are looking for a quick fix. They will bankrupt your future in more ways than you could imagine.

Hard Rock’s application to develop Citi Field has been approved by local community boards. Much better location, very accessible public transportation and a much better independent operator than Sands. That “Metropolitan Park,” if built, would compete with Sands and other downstate casinos for the same pool of gamblers and people seeking entertainment options. Somebody’s going to lose, and it will be the residents of Nassau County.

ANTHoNY BRANCATo East Meadow

Framework by Tim Baker

Rockville Centre Girl Scout Troop 864 at Dees’ annual Trees for Troops — Oceanside