HERALD
Franklin Square honors veterans
Veterans in Franklin Square’s VFW Post No. 2718 met for a ceremony at Rath Park for a Veterans Day remembrance ceremony. They marched across Naple Avenue to a memorial across the street waving an American flag to commemorate all veterans who have served in the military. Above, veterans began congregating around the Franklin Square Memorial for a brief ceremony. Right, a veteran waves the American flag alongside the precession of veterans. Story, more photos, Page 5.
Three F.S. runners finish city marathon
By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo & NIColE WAGNER jdalessandro@liherald.com
Franklin Square residents
Christian Viti, Corry Brinken and Nick Matzelle ran in the 53rd annual New York City Marathon on Nov. 3. The marathon celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and the three joined more than 50,000 runners as they crossed the span to begin the race.
TViti, Brinken and Matzelle, all 24, are lifelong friends — they went to H Frank Carey High School together and have run in Franklin Square’s Turkey Trot, a five-mile race that doubles as a multi-cause fundraiser, since childhood. This was their first New York City Marathon.
unreal,” Brinken said. “The support from random people on the streets yelling your names was unbelievable. It’s like the whole city comes out for a big party to support people, coming from all walks of life.
he support from random people
… was unbelievable.
CoRRy BRINkEN Marathoner
“I think that running is super important, especially finding a good community or friends to do it with,” he added. “It gives you a break from the stressful world we live in.” Matzelle, who works for UBS as an investment analyst, says he sees running as a therapeutic exercise. “Running has always been part of my lifestyle,” he said. “I really grew passionate about it during Covid, when I was quarantined. I needed a way to get out and get into nature and not be so confined.
Brinken is an orthopedic physical therapy resident at Duke Hospital in North Carolina. He and Viti were on the Carey soccer team in high school.
Running the marathon “was
“I grew a passion for the mental release that you would kind of get from a long run — the feeling that I would get after it was just so rewarding,” Matzelle continued. “That Sunday was special for me, because
Continued on page 16
Renee DeLorenzo/Herald photos
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Veterans Day commemorated in the park
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Nassau County veterans, families and community members gathered in Eisenhower Park on Nov. 10 to honor those who served on Veterans Day, paying tribute to local heroes whose courage and sacrifice have protected the United States’ freedoms and values. In a poignant ceremony led by the United Veterans Organization at the county’s veterans memorial in the park, speakers focused on respect, courage and resilience — and of course, the importance of Veterans Day and veteran service agencies.
“On Veterans Day, we veterans remember our service — we think about friends that we made, and some of the friends that we’ve lost,” Morris Miller, who’s on the UVO’s board of directors, said during the ceremony’s opening remarks. “We served with distinction. We served with honor. And even though many of us are older, greyer, out of shape — we would not hesitate at a moment’s notice to serve our country, if asked.”
Following a convocation, given by Chaplain Eric Spinner of the United Veterans Organization, a Color Guard was presented by active servicemen and women, youth organizations, and various veteran organizations.
Following his convocation, Spinner offered remarks for those who are prisoners of war and those who are still listed as missing in action.
“As you entered these grounds today, you may have noticed this small table in place,” Spinner said, referencing a display in front of the lectern. “This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are com-
County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder and State Senator Steve Rhoads carried a wreath to the POW-MIA memorial, and held their hands over their hearts during the presentation of ‘Taps.’
monly called POWs or MIAs — we call them brothers. They are unable to be with us at this time, and so we remember them.”
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, State Senator Steve Rhoads, State Assemblyman-elect Daniel Norber, Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jen DeSena and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder all attended Sunday’s ceremony.
“We have enemies that hate our way of life, they hate our prosperity, they hate our spirit, they hate our love of country,” Blakeman said. “So today, we’re here to remember. May God bless our veterans, may God bless our active military, and may God bless America.” Ryder said both veterans and police
offers have a bond over the word “service.”
“And what does it mean — unconditional service,” he said. “You didn’t ask for anything when you signed up to serve your country. You just went out to do it, and do it because you honored the flag, the constitution, the way of life here in the United States — that freedom we all get to enjoy.”
Among all of the speakers, perhaps no one is more involved directly with veteran affairs than Ralph Esposito, director of Nassau County’s Veterans Service Agency. There’s an office in East Meadow, right behind the main tower of the Nassau University Medical Center, which offers support, health care, food and other resources to veterans.
Morris Miller of the United Veterans Organization reflecting on the importance of Veterans Day at the ceremony in Eisenhower Park on Sunday.
“I feed 1,650 people a month that are veterans,” Esposito said of the office he runs. “That should not be. Veterans should not be hungry. Our veterans shouldn’t have to sleep in the park. There’s a lot more to be done, and as long as I’m living, I want to fight to get it done. I promise you that.”
The United Veterans Organization held a Veterans Day ceremony at the Long Island National Cemetery in East Farmingdale on Sunday as well. For more on veteran affairs and resources offered in Nassau County, visit NassauCountyNY.gov or call (516) 572-6565. Its headquarters are 2201 Hempstead Turnpike, Building ‘Q,’ East Meadow.
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Veteran organizations from across Nassau County participated in Sunday’s ceremony at the county’s veterans memorial in Eisenhower Park. Above, Elmont Post No. 1033 Legion Riders with the Patriot Guard Riders of New York.
He served the country. Now, the county.
Navy veteran Kerry Englander discusses his role as the American Legion’s Nassau commander
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Kerry Englander, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime member of American Legion Post 1711 in Levittown, was appointed the Legion’s Nassau County commander in June. Representing nearly 30,000 veterans across 52 posts, he now oversees efforts to support those who served.
Englander, 79, joined Levittown Post 1711 in 2008, starting as historian before being named second vice commander. He became active in the Nassau County chapter of the American Legion in 2020, serving as vice commander of the second division, where he supervised 15 posts in central Nassau.
After three years in that role, he was promoted to adjutant. His journey toward leadership included training at American Legion College at SUNY Morrisville, where he strengthened his understanding of the organization’s mission.
“It’s so gratifying working with all the vets and vet services,” Englander said. “Helping veterans — that’s what the American Legion is. It’s vets helping vets and the community. We served our country, and now we’re serving our community — simple as that.”
Englander’s commitment to aiding
veterans was evident when he recently helped a fellow veteran with a staph infection transfer to the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook for specialized care.
“He’s rehabilitating there, awaiting his hip replacement,” Englander said, highlighting his hands-on approach.
Planning for Single Relatives Living Alone
If you have a son, daughter, sister, brother or parent living alone for whom you are responsible, and they unfortunately become incapacitated or die, apart from the emotional and medical burdens, you may have significant legal and financial troubles. A little planning in advance for these contingencies will go a long way in making any such dire situation much easier to handle.
If they rent, then make sure they notify their landlord, in writing, that you have their permission to access the apartment. Also get a key to their apartment or home or at least know where you can get one (such as from a neighbor).
A power of attorney will allow you to handle their legal and financial affairs during any period of disability. However, a power of attorney automatically ceases on death. Once someone dies, only the executor under the will may handle legal and financial affairs and it may take months and sometimes years to become appointed executor by the Surrogate’s Court. A properly created and funded living trust, on the
other hand, gives you immediate control of their affairs upon death.
A health care proxy and living will allows you to gain access to their medical records, confer with medical professionals and make medical decisions for them if they are unable to, including termination of life support should there be no meaningful existence and no hope of recovery.
You should know where they keep records of their assets in their home or apartment. One of the benefits of a properly funded trust is that it will have a list of assets appended to the trust making it easy to locate what the decedent owned. A list of their assets, and any named beneficiaries, is also helpful.
Forms to provide personal information, such as who to contact in the event of death (friends, relatives, professional advisors), computer passwords, funeral and burial wishes and who is to receive which personal items, may be found on our website, trustlaw.com, under “Online Forms” clicking on “Final Instructions”.
Englander’s advocacy has also extended to pushing for the reopening of the Mitchel Field commissary in Uniondale. In September, he joined other members of the American Legion, as well as Congressman Anthony D’Esposito and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, in urging the Department of Defense to repair the damaged facility. The commissary’s closure has forced local veterans to travel to Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn for discounted food.
“The veterans and current military need this facility, especially with the economy the way it is today,” Englander told the Herald at the rally. “I believe that if the military and veterans are putting this facility, it should be opened up.
The Nassau County Legion chapter continues to advocate for more state funding to expand opportunities for Long Island students to attend Boys State, a prestigious program that immerses high school juniors in govern-
ment operations. Boys State has had many notable alumni throughout its 88-year history, including Neil Armstrong, Bruce Springsteen and Michael Jordan. Englander said that he sees this program as an essential way to teach leadership and civic responsibility.
Englander’s own leadership journey began with his military service. From 1966 to 1968, he served on the USS Talladega, a troop transport ship based in California, before ending his tour in Pearl Harbor, where he trained recruits. Starting as a boatswain’s mate, he fondly recalls early duties, including cooking for the chiefs.
“Everybody’s gotta start someplace,” he said with a laugh.
After his military service, Englander pursued a career in information technology with Con Edison and now runs a tax practice. He got married to his wife of 52 years, Elizabeth, and has a son, who is now 47, and a grandson, 11. His commitment to service, influenced by his family’s values and history, continues to shape his work with the Legion.
One of Englander’s proudest achievements as county commander has been the revival of the Nassau County oratorical contest, a constitutional speech competition for high school students. Contestants compete for up to $1,000 in scholarships by presenting an eight- to 10-minute speech on the U.S. Constitution, followed by a discourse on an assigned topic related to key amendments.
In his role as county commander, Englander remains focused on growing membership and strengthening the Legion’s community outreach. He values the mentorship of past county commanders, acknowledging their support as essential to his success.
“When you get into the county, you’re dealing with many posts,” he said. “The past commanders are critical to the making of a county commander … I couldn’t do it without them.”
For Englander, the American Legion is about more than honoring service — it’s about actively supporting veterans and their families. His leadership embodies the Legion’s core values of commitment, service and community.
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Daniel Offner/Herald Nassau County American Legion Commander Kerry Englander shared some of his goals as the representative of the county’s nearly 30,000 veterans.
Post No. 2718 remembers Veterans Day
A small gathering of veterans met on Monday morning for a brief remembrance ceremony in honor of current and retired service members for Veterans Day. The group began the service in Rath Park, marching across Naple Avenue to a decorated memorial next to the Franklin Square Museum. The Veterans of Foreign Wars met at 11 a.m. Veterans Day, or Remembrance Day as it is sometimes called, has been observed since 1919
in honor of the armistice that ended World War I. It is celebrated annually on Nov. 11, the number “11” holding significance to mark the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in which the war ended.
For more information, visit the VFW Post No. 2718 on Facebook at “Franklin Square VFW Post 2718.”
–Renee DeLorenzo
Curing a rare heart disorder with a short life expectancy.
Performing a life-changing brain surgery without a single incision.
Helping a new mom give birth—and receive a new liver.
At Northwell’s North Shore University Hospital, the nation’s most brilliant minds come here to conquer health care’s greatest challenges. So that whatever comes through our doors: challenge accepted.
North Shore University Hospital
Courtesy Hesham Khafaga Members of Veterans of Foreign Wars met in Rath Park in Franklin Square on Nov. 11.
Renee DeLorenzo/Herald Pasquale Connell, chaplain of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, delivers a speech to his fellow veterans.
Carey High School recognizes AP scholars
Students in the Classes of 2024, 2025 and 2026 from H. Frank Carey High School were named Advanced Placement Scholars in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the collegelevel AP exams in five categories. Congratulations to the following students on achieving this honor:
AP Scholars with Distinction
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.
Thiara Acosta, Joseph Binu, Ewan Byrne, Andy Caleca, Joseph Campisi, Alexandra Casalaspro, Shirley Chen, Ivan Chin, Valentina Falanga, Cydney Housman, Angelina Jacob, Kaitlyn Jamet, Sneha Kaimal, Eshaan Kandel, Leah Kuriakose, Edmond Kwun, Grace Leimgruber, Ada Lin, Fiona Lin, John Paul Magbitang, Nico Mazzella, Daniel McHugh, Arwa Moid, Natalie Osorio, Alyssa Osso, Michael Pozzuoli, Abeer Qureshi, Julian Santana, Annmarie
Schurr, Shamiha Sharif, Mark Shrivastava, Uday Singh, Lukas Tzikas, Gabriela Valentin, Sarah Varughese, Selen Vila, Monica Villalobos, Thomas Wakely, Megan Wong and Michelle Zheng.
AP Scholars with Honor
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.
Kaitlyn Ammendolea, Brandon Batista, Sophia Brennan, Evangeline Brion, Olivia Caruthers, Jamie Pulimthanathu David, Elizabeth Gajovczyk, Katherine Gilman, Sophia Hinostroza, Joy Huang, Annamarie Ieraci, Juann Jenu, Justin Mathew, Grace Moncy, Elena Moryl, Laeeba Samad, Gilbert Sanchez, Anthony Sepe, Evanthia Stratakis, Brianna Sullivan, Brian Thomas, Fia Thomas, Christopher Tytone, JinPeng Wu, Michael Zheng and Nicholas Zografos.
AP Scholars
Granted to students who receive scores
of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.
Mina Abdallah, Barnil Aftab, Antonio Agostino, Taylor Agostino, Nicole Alexandre, Christian Anaya, Isabella Baloun, Adrianna Barragan, Deirdre Brennan, Antonio Brugellis, Alexandra De Castro, Vanessa De Castro, Vinci Chen, Alfin Cherian, Christopher Colace, Kaitlyn Conway, Jordyn Davila, Dominic DeLuca, Aaron Dito, Christopher Dizon, Milla Duckfield, Lili Duggan, Qyana Etienne, Joel Gallagher, Casey Govaert, Cormac Govaert, Matthew Guzikowski, Chloe Hsu, Johanna Jenu, Cheng Jui Kao, Cole Kennedy, Victoria Kennedy, Zaara Khan, Jack Lavin, Angelina Macias, Katelyn Mahoney, Megan Mancuso, Vincenzo Mari, Jamie Moncy, Meghan Murdoch, Ava Niedermyer, Jason Nufer, Lauren Peers, Morgan Poltorzycki, Jonas Ramirez, Shannon Reddy, Joseph Rigano, Megan Rodriguez, Jennifer Rojas, Daniele Russo, Farah Sadick, Giuliana Sagese, Karissa Scalchunes, Alexa Stacchini, Jocelyn Stuart, Liam Sushko, Irwin
Thomas, Laura Toriello, Mia Torquato, Sophia Travlos, Stella Travlos, Chloe Nicole Urban, Maya Velez, Nicole Wood, Ryan Yim and Ashley Ziolo.
AP Capstone Diploma
Granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on an additional four AP Exams.
Ewan Byrne, Andy Caleca, Shirley Chen, Joy Huang, Natalie Osorio, Alyssa Osso, Abeer Qureshi, Shamiha Sharif, Fia Thomas, Mia Torquato, Sophia Travlos and Monica Villalobos.
AP Seminar and Research Certificate
Granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research.
Thiara Acosta, Deirdre Brennan, Kayla Chavez, Jamie Pulimthanathu David, Caitlyn Hanlon, Syeda Hasnat, Grace Moncy and Mark Shrivastava.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Herald file photo
H. Frank Carey High School celebrated is three classes of Advanced Placement Scholars in five different categories.
Hofstra students star in election broadcast
By XIOMARA TRINIDAD PEREZ Herald Intern
The Herbert School of Communications, at Hofstra University, had transformed overnight into a news station. Students were busy writing scripts and reporting live results on election night, on a program called “Hofstra Votes Live.”
The multi-platform broadcast brought together students from across the Herbert School and the university. They began planning the program months before the election in order to deliver comprehensive, real-time coverage — all under the mentoring and guidance of Hofstra faculty members. The broadcast aired from 8 p.m. to midnight, and reached audiences on campus, on YouTube and on 88.7 FM WRHU, Radio Hofstra University.
The program featured coverage with both a regional and national perspective, and included live reports from watch parties such as those for Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito and his Democratic challenger Laura Gillen, who ultimately defeated him. One of the standout moments was a live report from Vice President Kamala Harris’s watch party, at Howard University, in Washington, by student reporter Jake Epstein. Student anchors also interview guests such as former New York Gov. David Paterson on air.
The students gained hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of live news coverage, and learned about the behindthe-scenes work that goes into producing an important broadcast on a historic night. They also felt for themselves the excitement and intensity of covering a
presidential election.
“To be part of Hofstra Votes Live is a huge opportunity, and I feel so grateful being part of the team,” said Sarah Ng, a senior at Hofstra who served as one of the anchors of the national coverage.
“It’s a big production that the depart -
ment puts on every two years, and I’m really excited to see how it comes together. I’m both excited and nervous just because it’s four hours long — that’s like, that would be the longest I’ve ever been on air live.”
Days before the broadcast, student anchors like Ng took part in a special workshop hosted by WABC reporter Chanteé Lans, who shared some of the secrets of being a good anchor during a live broadcast.
In the past, “HVL” has covered presidential and midterm elections as well as Super Tuesday during the presidential primaries. Last year the broadcast won the Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Student Video Newscast for its coverage of the 2022 midterms.
“I’m really grateful, actually, to be one of the coordinating producers for ‘HVL’ for the 2024 presidential election,” junior Samantha Diamond said. “You know, seeing me as a freshman two years ago, I was one of the camera assistants. . . . And I was just, like, you know what? When I’m an upperclassmen and we do this again in two years, I want to be one of the leaders.”
In addition to the main “HVL” broadcast, students also produced a special edition of “Hofstra News Now” that aired the day before Election Day. The broadcast examined key issues in the election, including reproductive rights, foreign affairs and inflation.
Courtesy Diego Olivras
Regional anchors Michael Dent and Camryn Bowden reporting the news for ‘Hofstra Votes Live’ on election night.
Students launch mental health initiative
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Four Elmont Memorial High School juniors have launched a student-led program, Empower Youthful Minds, to raise awareness about mental health and provide support for their peers.
Elissa Acheampong, Alex Lalbachan, Videsh Muneshwar and Varda Qudratullah created the initiative outside of school and later collaborated with school staff to bring it to the student body.
“Because we are in the 11th grade, we know that this grade comes with an abundance amount of stress,” Acheampong said. “So, we wanted to be able to make a difference that would help benefit each and every student within our school.”
The program led a letter-writing campaign in September for National Suicide Awareness Month. With approval from classroom teachers, students in AP Research classes wrote 50 handwritten letters offering messages of hope to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
The letters were delivered on World Mental Health Day, Oct. 10, to the Institute for Community Living, a New York City organization that provides services for individuals dealing with mental illness, substance use issues and developmental disabilities. ICL’s Senior Vice
President Richard Anemone accepted the letters, which will be included in the organization’s World Mental Health campaign.
The letter-writing campaign also supported the Sewanhaka Central High School District’s Tech-Free Tuesday initiative, which encourages students to take a break from screens and engage
brought the plan to fruition, aligned with the organization’s World Mental Health campaign, supported the district’s ‘Tech-Free Tuesday’ initiative, and demonstrated several of the district’s Portrait of a Graduate competencies. They have truly set an inspiring example of leadership and compassion for our entire community.”
The executive board of Empower Youthful Minds meets weekly, either in person or via videoconference, to plan activities and events. The group is currently organizing a holiday toy drive to support local families by providing gifts for children and spreading joy during the holiday season.
“Our goal is to host a toy drive, providing gifts to bring joy to children and to assist parents who may be facing mental health challenges,” Acheampong said. “Ensuring a joyful holiday experience for all.”
in more personal, face-to-face communication.
“I am incredibly proud of these young people and their dedication to making a difference. With minimal guidance, they took this idea and ran with it,” said Caron Cox, chairwoman of the Pupil Services staff at the high school. “It was a win all around—they
Empower Youthful Minds aims to continue its efforts with additional activities and community events focused on mental health awareness and support. The program has already had a positive impact on the school community, helping to open conversations around mental health and offering resources to those in need.
As the initiative grows, the group hopes to further engage students and families, continuing ongoing dialogue about well-being and support in Elmont.
Courtesy Sewanhaka Central High School District
Institute for Community Living Senior Vice President Richard Anemone, Elmont Memorial High School students Alex Lalbachan, Videsh Muneshwar, Elissa Acheampong, Varda Qudrayullah, and Chairwoman of Counseling and Student Support Services Caron Cox.
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What’s selling at the community yard sale?
Hess trucks, holiday decorations, race cars, record, ties, toy trucks and an array of many other items were being sold at the Franklin Square Civic Association’s annual community yard sale at the Rath Park Pool parking lot on Nov. 2.
For much more about the civic association go to FsqCivic.org or email communitysale@fsqcivic.org.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Skye Margies/Herald photos
Franklin Square resident Natalie, left, with her mother Barbara and niece Sherline at their booth selling holiday decorations at the civic association community yard sale.
Shayla Jean, left, and Brianna Alejandro looked at the Hess trucks and other toy vehicles for sale.
Franklin Square resident Paul Lizio showed off his table of truck toys. Roseann Randazzo sorted through ties at the community yard sale.
Ryan Tarascio, 11, checked the items Hal Weisblatt was selling at the yard sale.
Light the night with sweet
LuminoCity unwraps a colorful world of wonder
By Danielle Schwab
The holiday season is quickly approaching, so bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and experience holiday magic at 14 acres of enchanting displays in Eisenhower Park.
Now in its fifth year, the popular holiday festival LuminoCity, which runs through Jan. 5, welcomes guests to a wonderland filled with giant lantern creations.
“It’s a really cool combination of light and art and a little sprinkle of holiday magic with this event,” John Baiata, LuminoCity’s onsite manager. Eisenhower Park is our signature event.”
All of the displays are new to Eisenhower Park this year.
The idea started with the founder Xiaoyi Chen, who grew up in China and was inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals as a child.
“She came to New York, went to art school here, and founded LuminoCity in 2018 with the idea to reimagine the traditional Chinese lantern festival into something that combined her acumen with the art world,” Baiata explains.
As you stroll along the paths, LuminoCity’s mascot, Lumi, lights you along the way. Visitors will see Lumi in various outfits as your glowing tour guide throughout your visit.
This year’s theme “Sweet Dreams,” stirs up a delightful blend of sugar and imagination into a candy-coated world of desserts and confections.
“Who doesn’t like a giant donut tunnel, or a forest made entirely of sweets?” asks Baiata.
Kids have added their own “Sweet Dreams” to the walk-through as part of Lumi’s Utopia, in partnership with Long Island Children’s Museum.
“We hold an art contest for children of different age categories. They submit works of art with a pre-agreed theme — this year’s theme was Sweet Dreams, such as candy and sweets — and the museum and our founder picked the winners,” Baiata says.
LuminoCity’s team acquires kids’ 2-D artwork that is brought to life as a 3-D light display for all to enjoy.
“The best part is the children seeing, for the first time, their pieces of art come to life. There’s this visceral excitement and just a gushing pride that you see from them and their parents as well,” Baiata adds.
“Art enriches our lives in so many ways that we take for granted sometimes. This really reminds us that imagination and art are central to our purpose here.”
Other can’t-miss attractions include a 50-foot Christmas tree and a majestic ice castle, which is
• Now through Jan. 5; weekdays 4:30-9:30 p.m., Friday through Sunday, 4:30-10 p.m.
• Tickets priced $24-$32 per person, children 3 and under free
• Purchase tickets at luminocityfestival.com or on-site.
• Eisenhower Park , East Meadow
described as bigger than a residential home. And, of course, a lantern Santa Claus returns to spread holiday cheer .
“I think that it creates this sense of wonder and adventure because as you approach, you’re looking up and you’re just kind of awed,” Baiata says.
Unlike Old Saint Nick, this process certainly can’t be completed in just one night. With a team of 40 members, the spectacle has been months in the making.
“It’s a big production staff required to get this all done. And it’s not just the creation. It’s also the maintenance because we’re outdoors, so we are beholden to the elements,” Baiata adds.
For an exciting twist, the festival also offers theme nights. Check out the website for additional ways to join in the fun.
When it’s time for a break, seek out the food truck nearby, with tempting eats and treats.
Whether you have been before, or it’s your first time, LuminoCity’s Holiday Light festival promises a night of memory-making experiences with friends and family.
“One of the most precious things in children is seeing the wonder in their eyes. And you want to cultivate that sense of wonder with your children; not just your children, but also your inner child,” Baiata enthuses.
“For the families who have already made (our festival) a tradition, we’re so grateful.”
Madeleine Peyroux
The acclaimed jazz singer, songwriter and interpreter brings her tour to the Landmark stage, following spring’s release of “Let’s Walk,” her first album in six years. Peyroux is acclaimed for her dusky, lyrical style and affinity for reinterpreting classic jazz, blues, and folk standards. Her extraordinary journey is one of the music industry’s most compelling. Emerging in her teens, much like songbird Edith Piaf, Peyroux spent her teenage years busking the busy streets of Paris. Years later, Peyroux would cite Piaf as an influence on her music and record a rendition of the classic La Vie En Rose, soulfully capturing the tune’s romanticism and melancholy. Madeleine’s thirst for creative exploration is unfading and her willingness to face creative challenges remains as solid now as it was three decades ago.
Sunday, Nov. 17, 7 p.m. $70, $65, $58. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
‘Come and play”… on Sesame Street
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello! At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello everyone’s invited to sing, dance and play alongside some of their favorite friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide and seek. Elmo, his pals and other Muppets lead dances, songs, and games from the stage while you and your little ones participate in the audience. Join in lively dances, sing along to catchy tunes and interact with your favorite Muppets, As they say on Sesame Street: “Come and play, Everything’s A-Okay, Friendly neighbors there, That’s where we meet…”.
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Photos courtesy LuminoCity Eisenhower Park glitters throughout the holiday season with the arrival of LuminoCity.
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, opening Saturday, Nov. 16, 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.
Art explorations
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues Saturday, Nov. 16, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.
Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Franklin Square Civic Association
Franklin Square Civic Association holds its general meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 7- 9 p.m. Location of the event is still to be determined. For more information and for updates visit their website at fsqcivic.org.
Having an event?
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Open House
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech, Long Island’s state-of-the arts career and technical education (CTE) high school, is opening its doors to all students with a passion for a hands-on career. Come and get a “Taste of Tech” at an open house at Joseph M. Barry Career & Technical Education Center, Thursday, Nov. 21, 5:30 p.m. Following an introduction to the school led by administrators, there will be self-guided tours of the facility.
Additional open house sessions are offered in January and February. Interested students and their families can register for the Open House at nassauboces.org/ barrytech or call (516) 6226812 for more information. 1196 Prospect Ave., Westbury.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition spans various world cultures through a range of media.
It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Community Game Night
Looking to make some friends and play board games? Visit Franklin Square Public Library, the third Wednesday of every month, at 6 p.m., to socialize and have fun at this free program. Light refreshments will be served. No registration is required. 19 Lincoln Road. For more information, visit franklinsquarepl.org or call (516) 488-3444.
Owl Prowl
Check out Sands Point Preserve’s native owls calling in the woods at night, with biologist and ranger Eric Powers, Friday, Nov. 15, 7-8:30 p.m. Learn how to identify owls by sight and sound, and attract these beneficial birds to your own backyard. Then head out to the woods for a very quiet guided night walk in search of owls and other nighttime wildlife. Families welcome. Spaces are limited and registration required. $24 adult, $12 child, 8+; $18 adult, $6.50 child, 8+ members. 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
• 6:00-9:00PM
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale
TRAILBLAZER AWARD & KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MICHAEL J. DOWLING
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER NORTHWELL HEALTH
ACCOUNTING:
JOHN FITZGERALD
Managing Partner
Citrin Cooperman
GURJIT SINGH
Chief Information Officer
Prager Metis CPAs
DIANE L. WALSH
Chief Marketing Officer
Prager Metis CPAs
BANKING & FINANCE:
JOHN BURKE
Managing Director
Global Head of Business & Professional Services
Citi Commercial Bank
MICHELE DEAN
Chief Executive Officer
Suffolk Credit Union
STUART H. LUBOW
President & Chief Executive Officer
Dime Community Bank
DAVID A. PERLMUTTER
Managing Partner
Forest Hills Financial Group
MARK SANCHIONI
Senior Vice President & Chief Banking Officer
Ridgewood Savings Bank
JOSEPH TEDESCO
President & Chief Executive Officer
Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union
BIOPHARMA:
PATRICIA ECKERT, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Enzo Biochem, Inc.
COMMUNICATIONS:
ANDREW RAINONE
Senior Vice President, Business Sales
Optimum Business
EDUCATION:
MARIA CONZATTI, Ed.D.
Chief Administrative Officer
Nassau Community College
CHRISTINE M. RIORDAN, Ph.D.
President
Adelphi University
TIMOTHY E. SAMS, Ph.D.
President
SUNY Old Westbury
ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION:
LOUIS BEKOFSKY
Principal, Managing Partner VHB
WILLIAM MAXWELL
Vice President The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
BILLY HAUGLAND II
Chief Executive Officer
Haugland Group LLC
ANDREW J. SOLANO
Managing Partner
Emtec Consulting Engineers
GAS/UTILITIES:
CHRISTINA ARMENTANO
Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President Paraco
JOHN RHODES
Chief Executive Officer Long Island Power Authority (LIPA)
ROSS TURRINI
Chief Operating Officer, New York Gas National Grid
ENERGY:
JIM FLANNERY
Chief Operating Officer National Grid Ventures, US Northeast
HEALTHCARE:
MICHAEL GITMAN, MD President Long Island Jewish Medical Center
STACEY C. JACKSON-HARLEY
RN MA BSN
Chief Operating Officer
Harmony Healthcare
ANDREW MINTZ
Chief Executive Officer
The Smilist
MICHAEL N. ROSENBLUT
President & Chief Executive Officer
Parker Jewish Institute For Healthcare and Rehabilitation
AMY SILVA-MAGALHAES
Chief Operating Officer
The Bristal Assisted Living
JON SENDACH, FACHE President North Shore University Hospital
AMIT SHAH, MD
Partner & Vascular Surgeon PRINE Health
JOSEPH VERDIRAME
Chief Executive Officer
Alliance Homecare
HOSPITALITY:
MICHAEL LESSING
Chief Executive Officer Lessing's Hospitality Group
LEGAL:
NICOLE W. JOSEPH, MSc
Chief Operating Officer & Finance Director CM Law PLLC
JULIE WYETZNER
Executive Director &
Chief Operating Officer
Cona Elder Law PLLC
MICHAEL H. SAHN
Managing Partner Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano PLLC
HOWARD M. STEIN
Managing Partner & Co-Chair of the Real Estate Practice Group Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP
NOT-FOR-PROFIT:
PHIL ANDREWS
President Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce
LISA BURCH, MPH
President & Chief Executive Officer
EPIC Long Island, Inc.
RANDELL M. BYNUM
Chief Executive Officer Girl Scouts of Nassau County
MATTHEW COHEN
President & Chief Executive Officer Long Island Association, Inc.
ERIKA FLORESKA
President Long Island Children's Museum
JEFFREY FRIEDMAN
Chief Executive Officer
CN Guidance and Counseling Services
DAN LLOYD
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Minority Millennials, Inc.
DIANE MANDERS
Interim Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of LI
JOHN MCGUIGAN
Chief Executive Officer
AHRC Suffolk
JEFFREY L. REYNOLDS, Ph.D.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Family and Children's Association
LUIS VAZQUEZ
President & Chief Executive Officer
Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
REAL ESTATE:
JOSEPH A. FARKAS
Chief Executive Officer & Founder Metropolitan Realty Associates LLC
RETAIL:
ROBERT KAY
Chief Executive Officer
Lifetime Brands, Inc.
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT:
CHRIS R. VACCARO
President & Executive Officer
Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame
TECHNOLOGY:
AMY E. NEWMAN
Senior Vice President, Administration
Canon U.S.A, Inc.
TRANSPORTATION:
ROBERT FREE
Acting President
Long Island Rail Road
MARLON TAYLOR
President New York & Atlantic Railway
MICHAEL D. TORNABE
Chief Operating Officer
Guardian Bus Company
COREY J. MUIRHEAD
Executive Vice President
Guardian Bus Company
WASTE MANAGEMENT:
AZEEZ MOHAMMED
President & Chief Executive Officer
Reworld
*List still in formation
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstMAHMOOD ALI, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 20, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and MAHMOOD ALI, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 21, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 276 BENSON AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-493-81, 82 & 83.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617170/2019. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 149608
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-FF18, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK M. LUSCAVAGE A/K/A FRANK LUSCAVAGE, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 2, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 7 Donald Court, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and
improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 525 and Lot 32.
Approximate amount of judgment is $943,103.29 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 013484/2008.
Judith Powell, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149704
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE BUNGALOW SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. LALCHAND LAKERAM, ET AL., Defendant(s). 498.Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 17, 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 December 4, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 82 Oakley Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 559 and Lot 324. Approximate amount of judgment is $862,181.16 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610315/2019.
Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 210491-1 149702
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, -againstVELDA CUTTING, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LIONEL CUTTING, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on August 13, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and VELDA CUTTING, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LIONEL CUTTING, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 3, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2268 RENFREW AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-723-21.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 613680/2021. Matin Emouna, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 149692
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 615876/2023 COUNTY OF NASSAU
US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. CHRISTOPHER CLEMENS, SR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DEBRA
CLEMENS A/K/A DEBRA
MAKARIUS; CHRISTOPHER CLEMENS, JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DEBRA CLEMENS A/K/A DEBRA
MAKARIUS; LAUREN CLEMENS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DEBRA
CLEMENS A/K/A DEBRA
MAKARIUS; UNKNOWN
HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES
OF THE ESTATE OF DEBRA CLEMENS A/K/A DEBRA MAKARIUS, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3, Defendants. Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property
SUPPLEMENTAL
SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 189 JACOB STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003 Section: 32, Block: 467, Lot: 32 & 33
To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to
secure the sum of $300,000.00 and interest, recorded on April 07, 2005, in Liber 28624 at Page 659, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 189 JACOB STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
NOTICE
YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.
YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: October 23rd, 2024
ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Crystal Khemraj, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 149798
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS TRUSTEE FOR CWABS, INC. ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2, -againstCHRISTOPHER J. BRODIE JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER J. BRODIE, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 17, 2024, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS TRUSTEE FOR CWABS, INC. ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2 is the Plaintiff and CHRISTOPHER J. BRODIE
JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER J. BRODIE, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 9, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 295 TRAVIS AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-499-38 & 39. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT (NOT AN INCORPORATED VILLAGE), IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 614702/2018. Harold F. Damm, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 149800
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, in trust for registered holders of First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust, Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2007-FF2, Plaintiff AGAINST Erslena J Jacob, The Estate of James S. Keaton a/k/a James Keaton, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 19, 2023, 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 December 9, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1371 North Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and said State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 549, Lot: 50-52 & 249. Approximate amount of judgment $711,244.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613057/2017. The
aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) 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”. Howard Colton, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-057763-F01 83012 149789
LEGAL NOTICE Notice of formation of Lenovia Ambulette LLC. Articles of organization filled with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 9/19/2024. The business office is located at 327 Keller Avenue Elmont New York in Nassau county. SSNY has been designated for Service of process. SSNY shall mail any process served against the LLC to 327 Keller Avenue Elmont New York 11003. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 149775
LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS OF THE ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the 6th day of November, 2024, subject to permissive referendum as provided for by the General Municipal law. An extract of the resolution is as follows: THE ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT SHALL PURCHASE A NEW AMBULANCE AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT AT A COST, INCLUDING COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH SUCH TRANSACTION, NOT TO EXCEED FOUR HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND ($425,000.00) DOLLARS WITH FUNDS FROM THE FIRE APPARATUS CAPITAL RESERVE FUND. THIS RESOLUTION AMENDS A PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED RESOLUTION WHICH CALLED FOR THE BOARD TO ACCOMPLISH THIS PURCHASE AT A MAXIMUM EXPENDITURE OF THREE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND ($350,000.00) DOLLARS FROM SAID FUND. THE PRIOR RESOLUTION IS DEEMED AMENDED ACCORDINGLY.
This resolution shall not take effect until thirty (30) days, unless in the meanwhile a permissive referendum as provided by the General Municipal Law is required to be held.
Dated: November 6, 2024 BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD ATTEST: FRANCES ANDINO Secretary 149974
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 11/20/2024 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 679/24. FRANKLIN SQUARE - Robert J. Stojanowski & Jaime B. Stojanowski, Variances, side yard, side yards aggregate, construct 2nd story addition & roof over existing porch, both attached to dwelling., N/s Mosefan St., 50’ W/o William Ave., a/k/a 1020 Mosefan St. 696/24. ELMONTChenthitta Gopalakrishnan, Maintain detached garage with less than required side & rear yard setbacks., W/s Lawrence St., 145.22’ N/o Dutch Broadway, a/k/a 812 Lawrence St. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Franklin Square & Elmont within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video
NYC Marathon explores city history
my family and my friends got to share that experience. I also raised money for the Ronald McDonald house, which was another really great experience.”
Viti is a first-generation ItalianAmerican — his mother and his paternal grandparents emigrated to New York — and he developed a passion for running in his youth, with his sister, Daniela Rosini.
“My sister and I were always involved in sports,” Viti said. “My dad would always say to put in 110 percent.” He has taken part in other marathons with charity sponsors, and for this one he raised about $4,100 for the American Cancer Society.
Viti is an associate acoustic consultant for William Sales Partnership, a global engineering and professional-services firm. He and other staff members ran this marathon to represent the firm and see how their predecessors helped shape New York City as it is today.
“I’m proud that our work builds communities, connects them and makes them stronger,” Viti stated in a WSP news release before the marathon. “Running the marathon will be like running through WSP history and seeing its impact on New York’s transportation, skyline and progress.”
Engineer Othmar H. Ammann, of Ammann & Whitney — now WSP — designed the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. The firm also designed other landmarks that marathon runners passed or had glimpses of, including Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Central Park Tower and One World Trade Center.
“For over 60 years, the MTA Bridges
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 149967
Corry Brinken, left, nick matzelle and Christian Viti, of franklin Square, have run together since high school. this year they conquered the new York City marathon.
and Tunnels and the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority have been dedicated stewards of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and roadways,” WSP Senior Vice President Joseph Viola said in the release. “All of the people who have touched the bridge in some way over the past six decades share an unwavering commitment to maintenance and innovation which has kept this historic structure standing strong, ensuring safe and efficient travel for thousands of commuters.”
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on November 13, 2019, I, Brian J. Davis, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on December 19, 2024 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: 63 Garden Street Valley Stream, NY 11581
SBL No.: 39-408-4
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff,
v.
JACLYN CANNIZZARO
A/K/A JACLYN M.
CANNIZZARO, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 611311/2018 in the amount of $390,428.35 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 149970
Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale granted herein on 5/22/23, I will sell at Public Auction to the highest bidder on the north side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 17, 2024, at 2:00 PM Premises known as 116-23 237th Street, Elmont, NY 11003 Section: 32 Block: 626 Lot: 21,22
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU RECOVCO MORTGAGE MANAGEMENT, LLC; Plaintiff v. 1700 GROUP LLC; et al.; Defendants. Attorney for Plaintiff: Hasbani & Light, P.C., 450 7th Ave, Suite 1408, NY, NY 10123; (212) 643-6677
All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York. As more particularly described in the judgment of foreclosure and sale. Sold subject to the terms and conditions contained in said judgment and terms of sale. Approximate amount of judgment: $781,924.13 plus interest and costs. Index Number: 611929/2019 Roger Hausch, Esq., Referee 149981
Photos courtesy Christian Viti
Christian Viti was one of more than 50,000 runners who made their way across the Verrazzano-narrows Bridge as they began the new York City marathon.
Courtesy Adriana Herrera
Christian Viti and other William Sales partnership professionals took part in this year’s marathon, which took them past several landmarks that their firm created.
Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen
Assistant Business Administrator Position
The Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen is seeking an Assistant Business Administrator for an immediate opening. The successful candidate must possess a valid NYS SBA, SDBL, SDA, or SDL certification. The incumbent will assist the Assistant Superintendent for Business & Human Resources in all aspects of school business administration. The primary responsibilities include:
• Managing the District’s financial accounting system and procedures, processing accounting transactions, and preparing related month end/year end reports.
• Assisting in the preparation of the annual budget and related reports, responsible for grant recording and reporting.
• Managing the transportation process and responsible for the day-to-day transportation administration of the district.
• Maintain capital project files and ensure reporting of state aid forms on a timely basis for state aid. Coordinating all required reporting for audits and ST-3 filings. They assist in tuition billing, preparing cash flows as needed for necessary borrowings, develop regulations and processes to support Board of Education policies, assist in the supervision of certified and classified staff. Administrative experience and Certified Public Accountant Preferred; proficiency in Microsoft products is required, incumbent should be an independent thinker and motivated self-starter.
All interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter to stayal@valleystream13.com or apply on OLAS.
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour
Night Availability is a Must.
Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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
EMAIL MARKETING
SPECIALIST
Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!
RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.
REQUIREMENTS:
Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.
POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.
Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our
Dealing with the postSandy bureaucracy
Sun-Filled Gracious Colonial
Q. I saw an article about auditing government by our state comptroller and wondered if you saw how he outlined waste and mishandling federal and state funds, in recovering from Superstorm Sandy. He cited gaps in program “oversight.” Were you aware of problems? We got funds from the New York Rising program. It was an ordeal we hope to never repeat. Like our neighbors, our house was raised, but they got more money without questions. We received a letter demanding $20,000 back, claiming funds were misused. Our neighbor built an illegal ground-floor family room with a wet bar, yet we were told we could only have storage, for example, and the state didn’t even say anything when they passed inspection. Did you see that people were treated differently, and is there any recourse?
A. Since the program has ended, I doubt that you can appeal. For 10 years after the storm I made many observations of the ways in which the officials at each level handled the specifics of insisting on everything from plastic laminate countertops versus quartz or granite, the waste of every property separately surveyed for groundwater depth, the use of the ground floor and the changes in whether you could have a window or door opening, and even whether you could have masonry steps when the program only allowed for wood steps, which were destined to need maintenance or replacement in a short period of time. There were many ways a design professional like me, working with the recipients of the funds, like you, could have helped to make the programs more efficient, safer, and less expensive for the government, but each time I tried to contact the fund management, my input was ignored. I met with the national head of FEMA while I was filming a documentary about disasters in Moore, Oklahoma, as well state legislators and our local New York Rising program director. In each case I got a business card and a “Shoot me an email and we’ll talk,” but never any follow-up.
I saw that it was a complete waste to ask homeowners to separately pay for groundwater testing on their property, for $1,000 to $2,500, in order to qualify for house-raising when an organized agency could have saved millions of dollars by getting testing done up and down entire blocks, mobilizing the testing company to come to a block once instead of randomly testing next-door neighbors’ properties a day apart. I was working with five neighbors at one time, and tried to get a state and local adviser to review procedures and applications in a single meeting, only to be told that one would meet on a Wednesday, the next the following week and squeeze another in by the month’s end.
And, yes, I witnessed many differences in people’s treatment and how cases were handled, and I could not get an explanation when appealing on behalf of a homeowner. Perhaps the Homes and Community Renewal Agency can advise. Good luck!
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A call for tolerance amid the acrimony
Aweek and a half removed from the conclusion of the profoundly exasperating 2024 election cycle, it is abundantly clear that the political temperature remains at an unprecedented high.
sCoTT M. DAVis
Constructive discourse seems nonexistent. Divisive rhetoric and finger-pointing have emerged as the standards of the day, and the pendulum has swung far away from working together across the political spectrum to build consensus for the greater good. This unsustainable climate is driving us down the dead-end road of acrimony and dysfunction.
We must all recognize this moment as a time for introspection and taking personal responsibility for the direction in which we move forward. As our emo-
tions settle, we should consider the legacy that we will leave for the next generation and reflect on what we can do to create a better path of promise for the future for those who follow.
In recognizing the magnitude of this moment in our political history, it is imperative to consider focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us. At our core, I believe we all share similar fundamental desires: to be able to live in an affordable, safe community where we, our families, and loved ones are treated with dignity and respect and can thrive, live authentically, and become the best versions of ourselves. We may have different customs, attend different religious institutions or celebrate in different ways, but the reality is this: We share more similarities than differences.
We must tamp down the divisive rhetoric that permeates our discourse.
ideals of tolerance and constructive problem-solving. Developing a willingness to listen and consider the possibility that an alternate way of thinking on an issue may have value is essential, and as a first step, I encourage everyone across the political spectrum to see how we can do better and contribute toward achieving this outcome.
seize on the work of forging a positive path for the next generation. Everyone is exhausted by the current political climate. We can and must do our part to work together, in order to give us all a better chance to live our best lives in a society where everyone is valued and protected.
Changing the toxic political climate starts with each one of us taking a long look in the mirror and embracing the
At this time of tremendous division, we must all renew our willingness to consider the legitimacy of differing perspectives and seek common ground on which reasonable people can begin to build a consensus. Start by focusing on something you can agree on and build from there. This isn’t an easy task, but it is a necessary one. We won’t always agree, but we must not always disagree. Even within our own families, we don’t concur on everything, but we move forward together.
With the holiday season fast approaching, now is an ideal time to
Our first task in this vital pursuit is tamping down the divisive rhetoric and intolerance that permeates our discourse. By focusing on understanding, empathy and bridge-building, we can pave the way for more united communities as we build a future that is inclusive, respectful of differences, and focused on creating solutions that benefit everyone.
Let’s come together — not as adversaries, but as neighbors and fellow citizens — and work toward a future in which our shared values and common goals guide us to a stronger and more resilient future. We are all better when we work together.
Scott M. Davis, of Rockville Centre, represents Nassau County’s 1st Legislative District.
Congestion pricing won’t solve the MTA’s problems
Halloween is over, but Gov. Kathy Hochul’s congestion pricing plan is still haunting New Yorkers. This might even feel like Groundhog Day to those who read my column on congestion pricing in June, when we celebrated the delay but also exposed the true political motivations behind the proposal.
The governor’s decision to “pause” congestion pricing this summer temporarily stopped tolls that would have made travel into Manhattan’s busiest areas even more costly. Now, with state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli warning of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s worsening financial troubles, congestion pricing is back on the table, threatening to add yet another burden to New Yorkers already facing record-high costs.
When the governor announced the delay in June, I called for the Legislature to hold hearings. We had a real opportunity to hear directly from those affected and find a path forward for MTA fund-
ing that didn’t involve hiking fees for middle-class commuters. Instead, we wasted valuable time while the MTA’s financial troubles have only deepened.
The comptroller now reports a massive authority shortfall in its operating budget of at least $211 million this year, and DiNapoli is warning of a potential $1.5 billion gap next year if no action is taken. These operating budget shortfalls will add to the MTA’s financial crisis, especially when you couple this with its massive $68 billion capital plan.
The Legislature shouldn’t be a rubber stamp for closed-door deals.
On top of these challenges, new taxes and fees — like last year’s payroll mobility tax hike — have only placed additional financial burdens on New Yorkers without achieving the intended results. Despite this tax increase aimed specifically at supporting the MTA, the agency is still running a deficit. The shortfall underscores a deeper issue: Even with new revenue from the proposed congestion tolls, the MTA continues to struggle with high operating costs and budgetary mismanagement.
This measure unfairly targets hardworking, middle-class commuters and imposes harmful extra fees on taxis and
for-hire drivers, effectively taxing their means of making a living. We can’t keep piling on taxes and fees without addressing these underlying problems, or we risk pushing families, workers and businesses out of New York altogether. There are too many questions about the agency’s budget management to make congestion pricing the default solution.
We have seen firsthand the inefficiency and lack of transparency in the MTA. The agency has consistently over-promised and under-delivered, costing taxpayers more with each misstep. Pushing for increased use of public transportation over private vehicles without addressing the MTA’s well-known reliability issues will only increase congestion in an already troubled system. The public deserves a clear accounting of where these funds are going and how decisions are being made. Lawmakers, too, deserve the chance to ask hard questions and consider practical solutions. The answer is not to rush into congestion pricing to cover up a failing system, but rather to bring forward a thoughtful, public process that thoroughly examines the MTA’s spending and governance.
Hochul suggested that the delay was intended to protect New York City’s delicate economic recovery from the impact of reduced commuter-driven business. But it was really a strategic decision to curry favor in suburban areas where the plan faces significant opposition, particularly before a key election. The socalled “indefinite” delay was set to last only until Nov. 6. Now that election season is over, congestion pricing will likely return during the upcoming state budget cycle, because the plan was ultimately designed to generate revenue, not to solve the fundamental problems with our transportation system.
The Legislature should not be a rubber stamp for closed-door deals that impact millions of lives. It’s time to bring this conversation out into the open, hear from stakeholders and make the MTA’s fiscal health a topic of thorough public debate. Without accountability, New Yorkers will just keep paying more for the same services. Rather than “unpausing” a broken solution and rushing into a costly toll scheme, let’s focus on addressing the root issues in a way that doesn’t sacrifice our workers and families to endless new taxes.
Ed Ra represents the 19th Assembly District, and is the ranking Republican member of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee.
HERALD
Herald editorial
Delivering quality journalism matters most
last week’s news that The Newark Star-Ledger will cease its print edition and become digitalonly in February offers an opportunity to reflect on how quality journalism best serves our communities today.
The Star-Ledger’s shift, along with similar moves by other newspapers in New Jersey, reflects the complex reality facing modern newsrooms. But rather than seeing this as a choice between print and digital, let’s focus on what research consistently shows: Different formats serve different purposes, and many readers benefit from both.
Print newspapers continue to command exceptional trust and engagement. Studies repeatedly demonstrate that readers retain information better from print, and advertisers see stronger results from print campaigns. There’s something uniquely focused about the experience of reading a physical newspaper — the thoughtful progression through its pages, the serendipitous discoveries, the natural hierarchy that helps readers understand what matters
letters
Affordable housing tops the list of L.I.’s problems
To the Editor:
I’m writing in response to the editorial “The Herald’s pact with you” (Oct. 31-Nov. 6), in which you ask, “What are the topics you care about?”
There are many problems affecting Nassau County, Long Island, New York state and the United States that I care about, but the one I find myself coming back to more than any other is housing, specifically the availability of affordable housing.
I live in Point Lookout, a community that has gentrified enormously since my parents bought a home here in 1957, for which they paid $17,500, taking a 10-year mortgage. It’s great for me, I guess, that my home has appreciated in value astronomically, but, in my opinion, not so good overall for the people of Long Island.
One of my daughters struggled to find somewhere to live on her own nearby, finally settling into part of a home in another Nassau County community, paying rent that’s at the very limit of what she can afford. And this is typical. As individuals and families struggle to pay their mortgages and property taxes, there are close to zero apartments and mixed-use developments being built.
In Long Beach, just down the road from Point Lookout, there are innumerable, mostly illegal apartments in homes, despite the periodic statements of various Long Beach officials
most. Digital platforms, meanwhile, excel at breaking news and interactive graphics.
The most successful news organizations today recognize that different stories, and different moments, call for different platforms.
At the Herald, we see firsthand how print and digital complement each other. Breaking news might first appear online, and then our print editions provide the context, analysis and depth that help readers truly understand issues affecting their communities. Each platform serves its purpose, and together they create a more informed community.
The future of news isn’t about choosing digital over print, or vice versa — it’s about delivering quality journalism through whatever channels best serve you, our readers. There’s no doubt that news will eventually be delivered by a technology that doesn’t even exist yet, and that’s OK.
Local newspapers, regardless of format, serve as champions of community achievements, watchdogs of public officials and chroniclers of the stories that
matter most to our readers. Whether you’re holding a printed page or scrolling on a screen, what matters most is the quality of the journalism you’re reading.
At the Herald, our commitment has remained unchanged for many decades: to provide trustworthy, impactful journalism that serves the people of Long Island. We’ll continue investing in both print and digital delivery, recognizing that our readers benefit from having choices in how they consume news. And, of course, we always want to hear from you about how we can serve you and your communities better.
The future of journalism depends not on the medium but on the continued support of readers who value quality local news. Whether you prefer print or digital, or both, your engagement helps ensure that professional journalism continues to thrive in our communities. Tell your friends and family to subscribe to their local newspapers, wherever in the world they live.
We look forward to being your trusted source of local news for years to come.
promising a crackdown on such apartments.
The opposition to building more housing on Long Island is fierce. Look what happened last year to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s attempt to encourage the construction of more housing throughout the state.
Local politicians rant and rave about how apartments and multi-unit developments near transit hubs will destroy the suburban character of Nassau County — as if developers were looking to build huge apartments in residential neighborhoods!
tour neighbors, work
tribute about and more Despite challenges sense of many That’s community humbled ty the p
— while our young people and families who cannot afford to buy homes have almost no options for housing. Cowardly town, county and state politicians serve only their own self-interest in being re-elected, and do nothing to address this problem. And our young people, and others, continue to leave Long Island due to the lack of housing options.
MICHAEL CrAvEN Point Lookout
canzoneri-Fitzpatrick
topinions Reflecting on progress and looking ahead
hank you. Over the past two years, I have had the incredible honor of traveling throughout the 9th Senate District to meet our neighbors, to see the extraordinary work they’re doing to serve and contribute to our communities, and to hear about the challenges and struggles they face every day. As a mother and a small-business owner, I’m all too familiar with many of these challenges — inflation and the increasingly high cost of living, concerns about public safety and antisemitism, and helping our children navigate a seemingly more and more troubled world.
Despite how insurmountable these challenges appear, there is almost a sense of comfort in knowing that so many of us are facing them together. That’s why I sought to be a voice for our community two years ago, and why I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity the residents of the district have
given me to continue advocating for them in Albany for the next two years. With the 2025 state legislative session quickly approaching, I am committed to ensuring that the priorities and concerns of the residents of our communities are heard in the Capitol. I will continue to highlight the experiences my constituents share with me to help make the case for tackling the issues impacting everyday New Yorkers. It is imperative that lawmakers return to Albany with a focus on lowering costs and combating the affordability crisis head-on.
ilong-term if they ultimately decide to resume this disastrous proposal. rather than further burdening New Yorkers with more taxes and costly mandates, we need to rein in state spending to drive down the costs of goods and utilities.
t’s clear that residents don’t like policies that result from oneparty control.
After years of control by a one-party supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature, and after two consecutive budgets that included a billion-dollar-or-more handout to New York City’s selfimposed migrant crisis, New York voters have rejected the State Senate’s supermajority. It’s clear that residents aren’t in favor of the tax-and-spend policies that have resulted from one-party control, and gimmicks like pausing the congestion pricing tax on commuters shortly before an election won’t work
Letters
Not giving in to ‘our season of despair’
To the Editor:
I hope that Nov. 5, 2024, is not a date that will live in infamy, but I must express my justifiable concerns. I don’t fear the boogeyman in the closet. I fear a reality that may occur.
Hello, America: This is the time to say, “Oops, shoulda not done that.” This may be the season of our regret and despair. At the risk of sounding Cassandra-like, I fear for our democratic nation, I fear for our personal safety and I fear for our future.
Let’s start with our new leader, Donald Trump, awaiting sentencing on his criminal charges. How will the judicial system honor the decisions of the jurors? What will he do in the cases of the Capitol rioters? He could grant all or some of them pardons. What actions might he take on his first day in office? Which programs will he sign into law?
At risk are female reproductive rights, tariffs that could possibly raise the price of marketplace goods, more laws against vulnerable and targeted populations and the empowering of those who promote false science and other highly dubious theo-
ries. Many of us are concerned about what could happen to our health care and Social Security benefits. Will they change, possibly with decreases that will seriously impact an aging population? And, of course, there is the issue of border security, with its parallel implications of a ready labor market.
Like many of my fellow citizens, I hope that President-elect Trump doesn’t violate long-held democratic traditions and implement authoritarian governance.
I am worried about him using his platform to praise authoritarian leaders while demeaning our democratic allies. I am also concerned about him using pejorative and threatening language with his perceived enemies. We who feel abandoned and in despair must stand strong, and must continue to make our voices heard through democratic means and processes. We must persist in speaking for the disenfranchised, so the liberties we have known and hope to preserve for future generations are not deserted and forgotten. This is our America — let us continue to carry the torch illuminating a better life for all, and not give in to our season of despair.
MIrEILLE TAub Freeport
In the years since shortsighted bail reform policies went into effect in 2020, New Yorkers have been clamoring to restore common sense to our judicial system. That’s why the very first bill I introduced was intended to return judicial discretion, and allow judges to consider whether a defendant poses a threat to the community when setting bail, a common-sense practice allowed by 49 states and the federal government, but prohibited in New York.
Antisemitism, which once lurked mostly in the shadows, has reared its head in public, yet state lawmakers in the majority didn’t take action on any of the proposals laid out by my colleagues and me in the Antisemitism Working Group report.
While it may be a challenge — one that I welcome — to persuade some of
my colleagues across the aisle to change course by lowering costs for New Yorkers and empowering law enforcement and our judicial system to keep our communities safe, I am optimistic about the opportunities to work with lawmakers of all stripes to combat the youth mental health crisis. Last year, bipartisan legislation I cosponsored to protect children from harmful social media algorithms was signed into law. I hope to build on this progress and bolster access to mental health services in our schools.
It is unlikely that New York’s problems will be fixed overnight, and there will no doubt be further challenges in getting our state back on the right track, but every day I am inspired by the stories from friends and neighbors who help make our communities a better place to live. It is these stories, these friends and these neighbors who motivate me to serve them. So I want to thank you not only for the support and the opportunity to continue serving as your state senator, but also for everything you do — big and small — to add to those communities to make them the best places call home. Thank you.
Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th Senate District.
Framework by Tim Baker
Bellmore Girl Scout Troop 965 visits the Herald — Garden City
patricia canzoneri-Fitzpatrick
Giving Birth? Look No Further than the South Shore’s
Only High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care
Mothers looking for a hospital at which to give birth should consider the quality indicators used by U.S. News & World Report ® to determine institutions deemed High Performing for Maternity care.
Mount Sinai South Nassau is the only South Shore hospital to earn the rating of High Performing based on eight key measures:
• Reduced C-section delivery rates
• Low early elective delivery rates
• Low overall unexpected newborn complication rates
• Increased routine VBAC rates
• Increased exclusive human milk feeding rates
• Low episiotomy rates
• Routine birthing-friendly practices
• Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities
If you want the best birthing experience for you and for your baby, look no further than Mount Sinai South Nassau.
Learn more at southnassau.org/maternity, or call 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.