Homecoming 2024 at Freeport High School on Oct. 19, was a peppy celebration of school pride and community unity, bringing together students, faculty, alumni and families. Here Tyler Grayson for Freeport sprinting down field against Farmingdale High School. Story, more photos, Page 3.
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Larry Dresner, a Long Island native and a seasoned composer, recently launched a compelling new music video titled “Bring America Together.” His intent is to address the country’s yawning political and cultural divide, using music to inspire reflection and, he hopes, unity.
The video, featuring a blend of musical theater, opera, traditional choral and rap styles, was recorded in August at Dream Recording Studios, in Bellmore, and filmed by MHz Media Group.
The inspiration for “Bring America Together” stemmed from Dresner’s frustration with the
current political climate.
“I was just very angry at all the divisiveness and finger-pointing done in politics today, where they’re trying to score points with their voters rather than working together to solve problems,” Dresner, 68, explained. “I wanted to bring that to the attention (of) people in a way that might be accessible through art, and see if we can make a difference.”
“(I) wrote the lyrics first, and I tried to keep them not specific and more general, so that it wouldn’t offend people and could reach a broad audience,” he explained. “And then, once the lyrics are set, then I just set it to music. And I want-
Freeport’s Fall Fest returns on Oct. 27
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
The Village of Freeport is gearing up for the much-anticipated Annual Family Fall Festival, Halloween Parade, and the 35th Freeport Fire Department Fire Expo at the Nautical Mile on Oct. 27.
The festival promises a day of family fun, good eats and sweet treats, running from 12 to 3 p.m. at the parking lot across from Off The Hook, which is at 195 Woodcleft Ave.
Elizabeth Comerford, director of the Freeport Recreation Center, who is organizing the event along with the fire department and the Chamber of Commerce, shared details about the festival’s varied offerings and the community effort behind its organization.
look spooky or fun or whatever, and it’s like kids going up to the cars instead of like houses.”
Those interested in participating with decorated vehicles can sign up by calling (516) 3772311 or emailing ecomerford@ freeportny.gov.
Comerford emphasized the need for community participation, adding, “If anyone’s interested in joining us with the trunk or treat, just give me a call.”
ElIzABETH CoMERFoRD Director, Freeport Recreation Center
The event features a Trunk or Treat experience for families. “It’s like trick or treating, but just outside of people’s cars,” Comerford explained. “So people decorate their cars to
The Freeport Recreation Center and the Freeport Police Benevolent Association will supply all candy for the Trunk or Treat.
The festival will also include a Halloween Costume Parade, with participants marching up Woodcleft Avenue, showcasing their festive costumes. The Freeport High School Marching Band will take part.
The parade, which will feature floats, marchers and the trunk-or-treat along the way, will begin lining up marchers at 11:30 a.m. The route steps off
Continued on page 10
Jason Thomas/Herald
FIGHTER FOR FIGHTER FOR FIGHTER FOR LONG ISLAND’S LONG
ISLAND’S LONG ISLAND’S
Took action to keep guns out of the wrong hands, passed a bump stock ban and a full package of gun safety legislation
Voted to accelerate middle-class tax cuts and allocated funding to Nassau County Police and local police departments for vehicles, resources and training
Allocated billions in funding for the Environmental Protection Fund and the Environmental Bond Act of 2022, protecting our clean air and water while creating jobs
Supported legislation to protect women’s rights to reproductive health care, including birth control and IVF
Freeport’s homecoming unites communnity
Homecoming 2024 at Freeport High School on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024 brought together students, faculty, and community members in a spirited celebration of school pride and community togetherness.
The homecoming celebration began at 12p.m.
The event offered an energetic display of support for the home team as they faced Farmingdale High School, with the game beginning at 2p.m.
The gathering featured appearances by Superintendent Fia Davis, school trustees, administrators, devoted alumni, and more. Families, faculty, and students gathered to enjoy the day’s festivities.
Before the highly anticipated game began, attendees had the chance to savor a variety of food, beverages, and spirit merchandise, which added to the lively atmosphere.
The Freeport High School marching band set the tone for the day with a vibrant performance as they marched around the track.
The stands were filled with enthusiastic supporters, their cheers echoing throughout the game and the captivating halftime show.
The Freeport High School marching band, along with the color guard, cheerleaders, and dance team, put on thrilling performances that dazzled the audience.
The game itself did not end up going Freeport’s way, with Farmingdale taking it 42-14.
“Tough outcome,” said Freeport Coach Jimmy Jones about the game. “But we are building towards something great. Trust the process.”
Overall, homecoming 2024 at Freeport High School was a powerful display of the community’s unity and pride, leaving everyone with lasting memories and a deep sense of love for their school and town.
–Mohammad Rafiq
Jason Thomas/Herald photos
Freeport High School cheerleaders gather for a group photo, radiating school spirit and pride during Homecoming 2024.
The Freeport High School scoreboard stands ready as Homecoming festivities kick off and the teams get ready to duke it out.
The newly crowned Homecoming King and Queen, Jaden Wong and Nicole Hernandez share a proud moment on the field.
Junior Varsity cheer members Makhayla Jinks, 9,Valentina Umana 14, Laura Rodriguez, 14, Andrea Xol 13, Sofia Peterson 14, Nayibeth Matos 14, and Morgan Brewer, 15 bring energy and enthusiasm to the Homecoming celebration, proudly supporting Freeport High School.
The Freeport High School marching band energizes the crowd with a lively performance during the Homecoming parade around the track.
Red Devils face off against Farmingdale
Jason Thomas/Herald photos
Bayview students ‘Hooked on Firefighters’
For the 19th year in a row, third-grade students at Bayview Avenue School in the Freeport Public Schools district are taking part in the Hooked on Firefighters program, which began on Oct. 10.
This initiative, spanning from fall through spring, provides students with a hands-on opportunity to learn fire safety directly from firefighters of the Freeport Village Fire Department.
Each third-grade class is matched with a firefighter who will visit the classroom throughout the year, offering valuable lessons on fire prevention and safety through presentations, demonstrations, and interactive activities.
During the program’s kickoff event, students got to meet their assigned firefighter, tour a firetruck, explore its equipment, and ask questions about fire safety.
The program will wrap up in the spring with a field trip to the Nassau County Firefighters Museum, where students, joined by members of the Freeport Village Fire Department, will further explore fire safety concepts.
This enduring program has become a highlight for Bayview Avenue School’s third graders, blending education with community involvement.
Courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Bayview Avenue School third grade students in Ms. Martha Bermeo and Mr. Michael Huisman’s classes with Freeport Village ex-chief Mark Stuparich at the kickoff of the Hooked on Firefighters program on Oct. 10.
Located in Rockville Centre, Molloy University is home to one of the premier NCAA Division II athletic programs in the East Coast Conference. Molloy is expanding its athletic offerings by introducing sprint football as its 23rd intercollegiate sport. The Lions will proudly compete as the newest member of the Collegiate Sprint Football League (CSFL), with the inaugural season kicking off in fall 2024.
Molloy University combines academic excellence and leadership with personal mentoring in over
GIANNA VENTURA
East Meadow Junior Field Hockey
AN HONORABLE MENTION ALL-COUNTY in 2023 after scoring 12 goals and setting up 6 others in her first varsity field hockey season, Ventura ranks among Nassau’s leading offensive weapons this fall and has helped the 11-1 Jets to a conference title. A right wing forward, she has 20 goals and 13 assists through a dozen games. She scored at least one goal in all but one game and has eight multi-goal performances including one hat trick.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Oct. 24
Field Hockey: Sewanhaka District at East Meadow 5 p.m.
Football: G.N. South at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Boys Volleyball: Lawrence at Calhoun 5:45 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: South Side at Lynbrook 6:45 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: V.S. North at Malverne 6:45 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 25
Field Hockey: North Shore at Clarke 5 p.m.
Football: Plainedge at Island Trees 5 p.m.
Football: Massapequa at Westbury 5 p.m.
Football: Floral Park at Hewlett 6 p.m.
Football: Kennedy at Mineola 6 p.m.
Football: Carle Place at West Hempstead 6 p.m.
Football: Wantagh at Seaford 6 p.m.
Football: Oceanside at Farmingdale 6:30 p.m.
Football: Freeport at Port Washington 6:30 p.m.
Football: Floral Park at Lynbrook 3 p.m.
Football: Oceanside at Freeport 3 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 26
Football: Mepham at Sewanhaka 11 a.m.
Football: Carey at New Hyde Park 11 a.m.
Football: Garden City at Elmont 1 p.m.
Football: V.S. North at Lynbrook 3 p.m.
Football: V.S. Central at East Meadow 3 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Freeport denied playoff berth
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
There was no shortage of adversity for Freeport’s boys’ soccer team down the stretch, but the Red Devils provided themselves with some margin for error thanks to a 3-1-2 start against Conference AAA rivals.
But a lot of things changed Sept. 25 in a 1-0 defeat to Hempstead. Senior standout Lucca Noboa suffered a season-ending injury and it was also the final game of 2024 for Freeport’s top goalkeeper on the depth chart.
Still, the Red Devils hung around in the playoff chase and had a win-and-in opportunity Oct. 16 but was unable to solve conference champion Plainview, falling 1-0 on a goal that came with 18 seconds remaining in the first half.
“I think the team gave its best effort,” Freeport coach Craig Klasson said. “We were able to develop some scoring opportunities but just couldn’t finish. I’m proud of the boys for all their hard work this season. I’ve coached many of them a long time.”
One of those longtime varsity players was Noboa, who had 4 goals and 6 assists despite missing the final six games. Freeport managed one win, three losses and two draws without him. Also injured along the way were Carlos Bustos, Jefferson Ortiz and Allan Bonilla.
“We’ve had numerous obstacles and Lucca getting hurt was difficult for us of course,” Klasson said. “He’s a captain and a tremendous player and his absence had an impact on confidence. He still remained heavily involved and came to every practice and helped any way he could.”
Junior David Menjivar is someone who stepped up to pick up some of the offensive slack, Klasson said. Menjivar scored in the first game the Red Devils (7-5-4 overall, 4-5-3 in AAA) played without Noboa, a 7-0 victory over Academy Charter that saw senior Angel Nativi net a pair and junior Emerson Molina and register a goal and two assists.
Defensively, senior Kristian Hernandez was the catalyst, the coach noted.
“He just played phenomenally today and all season,” Klasson said after the finale. “Kristian and Jose Molina are the anchors back there and we also have Aaron Gomez who’s steady and moved Yorman Villeda to boost the defense as well.”
Junior Carlos Umanzor and sophomore Kleybersson Corado both saw action between the pipes over the last six games and held their own, Klasson said. Corado had the shutout versus Academy Charter and totaled 17 saves on the year, while Umanzor made 7 of his 13 stops against Syosset.
Needing at least a draw against Plainview to keep its playoff hopes alive, Freeport kept the pressure on throughout the first half with Menjivar, seniors Jason Villeda and Bryant Cruz and sophomore Kevin Leon leading the pressure. Cruz was coming off a two-goal game against Hicksville six days earlier.
However, the Hawks (10-1-2) kept the Red Devils off the scoreboard and played the role of spoiler.
“It was a challenging season,” Klasson said. “The conference was tough. Anyone could basically beat anyone. We had a talented team and played the right way.”
Tony Bellissimo/Herald
Senior Bryant Cruz was a big part of the Red Devils’ offense and popped in a pair of goals in a late-season draw with Hicksville.
MERRICK FESTIVAL
Hundreds attend Herald Senior Health Expo
Oceanside’s O’Connell Gardens hosts fourth highly anticipated event in series of 2024 gatherings
By Alexa Anderwkavich
The O’Connell Gardens in Oceanside welcomed eager attendees for the Herald’s Senior Health & Beyond Expo, produced by RichnerLIVE, on October 10 — the fourth in a series of exciting Expos for 2024.
The Expo is a community-loved event where diverse businesses and innovative services share their products and refined knowledge with Long Islanders.
“We are so thrilled with the turnout today — over 400 attendees!” stated Amy Amato, Executive Director at RichnerLIVE. “It offers valuable opportunities for companies and guests to learn, engage, and access essential screenings, benefitting both attendees and businesses. And we are so excited to expand this expo to Suffolk next month on Nov. 3.”
Over 45 vendors offering health, wellness, and personal care insights filled the hall. They provided guidance on enhancing lifestyle through new products and programs, as well as advice on senior living arrangements, financial security, and more.
Guests received free flu and COVID vaccines, courtesy of Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation and free COVID test kits from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s office.
Before noon, guests sat down for a panel discussion to hear experts discuss various topics, including consumer assistance programs and preparing for winter, advanced care directives, Medicaid asset protection trusts and estate planning, and the FCA Ombudsman Program. Guests also experienced an incredible segment from Mae Caime, CEO of aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond, called “Ageless Attitude,” — which got the crowd stretching and in motion!
“Never disappoints!” Caime said. “I love getting the crowd moving and grooving!”
Attendees received a goody bag — courtesy of Giftbag Sponsors Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Beach Terrace Care Center and Oceanside Care Center — filled with the special-event section, keepsakes and vital take-home information. At the end, the first 150 attendees also received a free to-go lunch provided by O’Connell Gardens and raffles winners were announced!
The Expo was made possible thanks to Silver Sponsors New York Department of Public Service, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Centerlight Healthcare PACE and Long Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (Cassena Care).
Guests and vendors are looking forward to the fifth and final expo of the year, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 3, at the Suffolk Y JCC, at 74 Hauppauge Road in Commack, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pablo Rendon and team of the Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation.
Alison Fenech, of the Long Beach Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, at the podium.
NYS Department of Public Service Utility Consumer Program Specialist Xenia Vega, right, and Jill Wasser.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Guests of the Expo enjoying their mindset, movement, and magic class guided by Mae Caime.
Speaker Daniel Miller, of Miller and Miller Law Group, with his wife.
A representative of the Oceanside Care Center with a vendor display.
Mae Caime, event host and CEO of aMAEzing Midlife and Beyond.
Kim Accardi and a colleague from FCA NYS Office of the State Long Term Care Ombudsman program.
A representative of Beach Terrace Care Center at its exhibitor table.
A representative of Silver Lining Home Care.
Composer says United States needs unity
ed to incorporate different styles of music, which included Broadway theater style, some rap music, a style of music called Americana … so it’s just a combination of the different styles to make the message more effective.”
The video opens with Joseph Anthony-Smith, a Freeport-based vocalist, and includes a solo performance by Stephanie Workman, who is also from Freeport. Dresner held open auditions around Long Island to choose the remaining singers, ensuring a mix of talent that would bring the composition to life.
“The process was pretty simple,” said Anthony-Smith, who, like Dresner, attended the New England Conservatory of Music, in Boston, where he studied opera. “He sent me the sheet music and a guided melody track so that I could kind of pick up what the melody was supposed to be … We collaborated on that a little bit, and then, as far as recording, it was pretty straightforward.”
“I really appreciate what he’s trying to do with the messaging,” AnthonySmith said. “We’re living through such unprecedented, divisive times that to see someone trying to put something out there that is meant to bring folks together — meant to kind of like rally folks into a more positive mindset — (is something I) always want to be a part of. So I was just really, really honored that he
the vocalists who performed ‘Bring america together’ harmonized at the recording session.
thought of me to be a part of it.”
As Dresner describes it, “Bring America Together” is “more than a song; it’s a movement.” The project is in keeping with his belief that art should not only entertain but also challenge societal norms and encourage reflection.
“I just hope that people will hear the message without getting triggered by any political points or something, with-
Larry
fashion Young, from Hempstead, performed the rap section of ‘Bring america together.’
out pointing fingers,” he said. “They could just be open to receiving the message, and what it’s trying to say might help them change their behavior or outlook a little bit.”
Dresner’s compositions have been performed by ensembles like the Metropolitan Flute Orchestra and the American Chamber Ensemble. He has also written for musical theater, and has
served on the boards of the Long Island Arts Council at Freeport and the Long Island Composers Alliance.
“I’m getting a positive, encouraging response when people have seen it,” he said of “Bring America Together,” “but I would like to reach a wider audience to be more effective.”
The video is now available on YouTube, at bit.ly/48mmOly.
Estate Planning for the Estranged Child (Part Two)
Last week, we wrote about having compassion for the estranged son or daughter married to the narcissist when considering leaving an inheritance. But what about leaving an inheritance to the estranged child who is not in this situation.
The reasons for estrangement are as different as are families. As Tolstoy famously remarked, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way”.
One of the keys to resolving what to leave the estranged child is determining who in the family are they estranged from and for how long and for what reasons (if known).
Sometimes they are estranged from only one parent and the other parent does not wish to see that child disinherited. Sometimes they are estranged from the parents but not their siblings — or some but not all of their siblings. It’s complicated. Often, hope springs eternal that the estranged son or daughter will come back into the fold.
In cases like these we like to use a technique
we call “Schedule A”. Generally, in a trust or a will, you will find the dispositive provisions, i.e. who you are leaving it to and in what amounts, somewhere in the middle of the document. When you amend the trust, or prepare a codicil to the will, you may legally change your wishes. Nevertheless, all of the parties can see what it was before and what the change was. For example, if you left someone out and now you are putting them back in, they will clearly see that they were left out before, and vice versa! To avoid the hurt, confusion and possible litigation that these emotionally fraught situations may engender, we recommend using a “Schedule A” to the trust. Here, in the body of the trust we state that the wishes are provided in “Schedule A” annexed hereto which may be replaced from time to time with the same formalities as the execution of the trust. Now, when a change is made we destroy the old “Schedule A” replacing with the new one avoiding hurt feelings and misunderstandings.
Photos courtesy Larry Dresner
dresner worked on the song, and on finding performers, for months before finally recording it at dream recording Studio, in Bellmore, in august.
Trunk or treat, parades at Fall Festival
at Sea Breeze Park on Richmond Street and travels up the Nautical Mile to the municipal parking lot. All are welcome to walk the parade route, and costumes are strongly encouraged.
“So there’s a lot of different things happening at once,” Comerford said, noting the presence of the Freeport Fire Department’s Fire Expo, where visitors will be given demonstrations of equipment, giveaways and safety tips.
Comerford highlighted the importance of such events in keeping the Nautical Mile vibrant throughout the year:
“It’s nice … to highlight the mile again during an off-season,” she said. “So (it’s just nice to) remind people that mile is still there, some restaurants are still open, even outside of summer and, you know, just hopefully a beautiful day, just for some fun.”
An additional highlight of the day is the Chamber of Commerce’s Chowder Contest, which will take place at the Esplanade. Around 10 Nautical Mile restaurants will put their best chowder forward, and for $5, visitors can try all the entries.
While planning has gone smoothly, Comerford emphasized that the weather is a key factor for the festival’s success.
“Now, it’s just all, it’s a weather game at this point,” she said.
“The weather has been great, so this should be a really fun afternoon,” Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy said. “Chowder is great any time of the year, but especially when you’re enjoying it with a water view. Everyone should come on down and support their favorite ghosts, ghouls and chowder.”
As families gather for the festivities, they can also look forward to a free screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas on Oct. 26 at 6 p.m., just in time for Halloween.
As the final touches come together for this year’s festival, Comerford and the event’s organizers remain hopeful for a fun-filled day that brings together residents of all ages in celebration of the autumn season.
Photos courtesy Randy Milteer/Village of Freeport Kids in colorful costumes, from firefighters to superheroes, were ready for fun at the fall festival of 2022 in freeport.
Witches and princesses mix with coppers at the annual Halloween parade set to grace the nautical mile once again on oct. 27.
michelle Jean, from left, mary Kennedy and freeport mayor robert Kennedy pose for a photo with dorothy and the tin man at the fall festival two years ago.
freeport villagers come out annually to celebrate the fall festival on the nautical mile, which combines a Halloween parade with other events.
freeport firefighters demonstrate a vehicle rescue operation during the f ire expo at the annual fall festival in 2022.
Project 2025 pushes controversial policies
By JENNA ZAZZA & LORI SAXENA Special to the Herald
Written by the conservative Heritage Foundation, Project 2025 is a 922-page book detailing overhauls of the executive branch and proposing what some consider as radical policy changes regarding the economy, culture, education and healthcare.
The controversial plans have Democrats in a tizzy, the Trump campaign distancing themselves from the ideas and saying they would embrace the mandate’s demise.
The Project would decimate the working and middle classes.
JOhN RIZZO Economist
Some of the project’s more significant policies include eliminating the Department of Education, transforming the Department of Health and Human Service into an antiabortionfocused “Department of Life,” and increasing the president’s control over independent agencies like the Department of Justice.
Despite Trump rejecting the project, six of his former Cabinet secretaries and over 140 people who played a role in the project also worked in his administration, according to a CNN report.
It’s clear that Project 2025 is an election year buzzword. It has both opponents and proponents. At its core, the initiative seeks to reshape the federal government, but its impact extends to the local level.
In the plans forward, the Heritage Foundation notes: “Every hour the Left directs federal policy and elite institutions, our sovereignty, our Constitution, our families, and our freedom are a step closer to disappearing. Conservatives have just two years and one shot to get this right. With enemies at home and abroad, there is no margin for error. Time is running short. If we fail, the fight for the very idea of America may be lost.”
The economy
The mandate criticizes the Federal Reserve’s monetary policies, recommending a major reform of the agency. Even with major reform, the project argues the Federal Reserve, also known as The Fed, would still cause “inflationary and recessionary cycles.” The report calls for abolish it outright, replacing it with either a free-banking system or reimplementing the gold standard.
A free-banking system allows banks to issue their own notes without government oversight or regulation. The gold standard system fixes the value of currency to a specified amount of gold. Up until 1970, the U.S. operated under the gold standard.
“A gold standard imposes very tight constraints on the government to spend,
The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is a touchstone of controversy, proposing major changes to national policies.
especially in times of crisis like Covid,” said Stephanie Kelton, an economy and public policy professor at Stony Brook University. “This is why countries always go off the gold standard. There is a lot of economic instability in the gold standard.”
Kelton is a former chief economist on the U.S. Senate Budget Committee.
The project claims that the gold standard offers a more stable and less inflationary economy. It asserts that the gold standard will deter the government from arbitrarily issuing more money since a hard asset must back the dollars.
“When we were on a gold standard, the economy would have big booms and big crashes,” Kelton said. “You could say that it was stable if you look over a long period of time like a century or 50 years, but within that period of time, prices are crashing.”
According to economists, a free-banking system isn’t ideal either.
“We saw what unregulated banks did in 2008. It caused a great recession,”
John Rizzo, former Long Island Association chief economist, said. “If anything, we need more regulation not less.”
Long Island is among the top areas in New York state that was hit the hardest by the 2008 financial crisis. The state experienced the most subprime loans with either none or low documentation per 1,000 housing units, according to a report released by the state comptroller.
Long Island also had the most foreclosures, with one every 500 households or less, according to the same report. Congress created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to prevent another great recession and housing finance
bubble. Project 2025 also calls to eliminate the CFPB.
“A bunch of lending activity took place that never should have taken place. Banks steered people into buying homes that they couldn’t afford,” Kelton said. “So if we eliminate the CFPB, it just makes it more likely that something like that can and would happen again.”
Long Island’s unemployment rate is increasing, namely in Babylon town which follows the state rate of 4.9 by only 0.5 points, according to the state’s Department of Labor statistics. The entire region lags behind the state by 1.1 points. Unemployment insurance is also declining. As the rates climb, housing prices are too. The median sale price of a single-family home is nearly $800,000, up 11 percent from last year.
“The housing crisis nearly brought the global economy to its knees, it did, in fact,” Kelton said. “We need people whose job it is to watch out for stuff like this and to intervene and take action on behalf of consumers because, in many cases, people didn’t understand the risks they were taking.”
Project 2025 also proposes peeling back worker pay and protections, making fewer workers eligible for time-anda-half overtime pay by lowering the threshold, and permitting children to work in “hazardous jobs.”
“[The project] is an extreme antiworker agenda that’s more or less designed to allow employers to use and abuse workers as they see fit, pay them as little as possible, offer limited protections, unions, wages, benefits– the whole thing,” Kelton said.
All economists contacted for com-
ment had similar negative perspectives on the project’s economic plans.
The proposed income tax reform simplifies the system to a 15 percent rate for those earning up to about $168,000 and 30 percent for higher earners could have significant implications for Long Island’s middle-income residents. With median individual incomes of around $54,000 in Nassau County and $49,000 in Suffolk County, a large portion of Long Islanders would fall into the lower tax bracket, according to Census Bureau data.
However, many households are already struggling to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and transportation, according to a report by United Way of Long Island. Nearly 30 percent of households in Nassau and Suffolk County face financial hardship despite the region’s relatively low poverty rate of 6 percent.
“It’s blatantly in favor of large corporations and the 15 percent and 30 percent would have a devastating effect on lower and middle-income individuals’ financial situation and overall on the economy,” Rizzo said. “There will be an adverse impact on small businesses that account for 90 percent of the business on Long Island and the middle class. In fact there wouldn’t be a middle class any longer. The Project would decimate the working and middle classes.”
Jenna Zazza and Lori Saxena are reporters with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
Courtesy George Giokas
Justice of the Supreme Court 2024 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES
Andrew Crecca
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 59
Legal career: Andrew Crecca, a figure in Suffolk County’s judicial system for nearly two decades, is looking to take on the state Supreme Court, next.
Appointed as administrative judge for Suffolk County, the 10th Judicial District of the Supreme Court in 2020, Crecca currently oversees operations. This role follows his tenure as supervising judge for matrimonial matters in the same court, from 2013 to 2020.
Crecca’s judicial career began in 2005 when he was elected to the county court in Suffolk. He has since served as an acting justice of the Suffolk Supreme Court from 2007 to 2010 and was elected as a justice of the Supreme Court in 2011, a position he will hold until 2024.
Along with his courtroom duties, Crecca has presided over the Integrated Domestic Violence Court in Suffolk County since 2007. He also served in the Suffolk Legislature.
James F. Matthews
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: James F. Matthews, a candidate for Justice of the Supreme Court in the 10th Judicial District, has over 40 years of legal experience.
Since 2015, he has served as an Acting County Court Judge in Suffolk County, presiding over civil and criminal cases, including business law disputes, personal injury matters and criminal trials.
He has also been an adjunct professor of law at Touro Law School His public service career includes a decade as Northport village attorney and nearly two decades as Huntington town attorney, responsible for municipal law, litigation and land use.
Matthews spent over 30 years in private practice, handling corporate and commercial law, litigation, and personal injury cases. He has a law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and a bachelor’s from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations.
Alfred C. Graf
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 66
Legal career: A Suffolk County District Court judge since 2018, Alfred Graf is now aiming for the state Supreme Court.
Born and raised on Long Island, Graf graduated from Farmingdale High School in 1976. He enlisted in the Navy that same year and rose to the rank of Operations Specialist Third Class Petty Officer. He received an honorable discharge four years later.
Graf earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from SUNY Plattsburgh and his law degree from Touro Law School. His professional experience includes serving as a NYPD officer. He has also worked as an alternative education schoolteacher and as an attorney with his own private firm.
His political experience includes serving two terms as supervisor of the upstate Town of Brighton and was an assemblyman from 2011 to 20118 representing A.D. 5 in Suffolk.
Terence P. Murphy
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Terence Murphy was elected to serve as a Nassau County Court judge in 2014. He previously served as a Nassau County District Court judge where he presided over the Veterans Treatment Court from 2010 through 2014. He is a member of the Nassau County Bar Association.
Murphy is a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served 26.5 years active and military service and was deployed to Bosnia, Iraq and Kuwait. His active duty experience began in 1973 with enlistment after high school. Murphy served as legal adviser to multiple commanders.
Paul E. Hennings
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 63
Legal career: Paul Hennings is a resident of Suffolk County and has served as a District Court judge since 2019 and Acting County Court judge since 2022. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College in 1983 and went on to earn his law degree at Catholic University Law School three years later. After law school, he joined the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office where he was an assistant district attorney until 1989.
Hennings began his career in private practice in civil litigation, trials and appeals in State and Federal Courts. He first served as an associate with Wortman, Furmuso, Kelly (1989 to 1996). Then he joined the law office of Ted M. Toboias, until 2005. He then joined Devitt, Spellman and Barrett, LLP where he practiced as lead attorney until 2008. He then became a partner at Lawrence, Worden, Rainis, and Bard LLP.
Deanna D. Panico
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Deanna Panico is a partner at Bee Ready Fishbein Hatter & Donovan, LLP. She has been in private practice since 2011, specializing in employment law. Panico was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2011, the U.S. Eastern District of New York in 2012, the U.S. Southern District of New York in 2016, and the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals in 2014.
She earned her undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University in 2007 and her law degree from St. John’s University School of Law in 2010.
Paul Hensley
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 63
Legal career: Paul Hensley was a judge for the district court of Suffolk County in New York. He was appointed to the court in 2002, elected in 2003 and re-elected in 2008. Hensley lost the 2014 election. Before his judicial appointment, Hensley served as a principal law clerk. His current titles are County Court judge, District Court judge and acting Supreme Court justice. Hensley has served as an acting Suffolk County Court judge since 2006, and was a law clerk for County Court Judge James Hudson from January 2001 until July 2002. From January 1999 to January 2001, Hensley was a law clerk for State Supreme Court Justice Leonard B. Austin. From March 1998 until January 1999, he worked as an assistant Huntington Town attorney.
Before that, Hensley worked for the Robert Plan Corp., and also served as a Suffolk County assistant district attorney. He received his law degree from SUNY Buffalo.
Gregg Roth
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Legal career: Gregg Roth is an attorney with over 30 years of experience in many sectors of law, including civil rights law, employment law, personal injury law, social security disability law and workers’ compensation law.
Roth received his law degree at Hofstra University’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law in 1993, and has been a member of the New York State Bar since 1994. He has served as a state principal law clerk for the past 11 years, and previously was the associate director for Drug Court programs February 2011 to April 2014.
An extremely accomplished legal professional for decades, according to people who know him, he’s been crossendorsed by the Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties in Nassau County as a nominee for the New York State’s Supreme Court.
Ryan E. Cronin
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties
Age: 43
Legal career: Ryan Cronin is a practicing attorney from Garden City. He received his law degree from the Washington University School of Law in 2008. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Loyola College. He was the Democratic candidate for Senate District 6 in 2012 and 2016, losing both times to incumbent Republican Kemp Hannon. He ran for Nassau County Comptroller in 2021 and lost to Republican Elaine Phillips. During his campaigns, Cronin focused on issues such as community safety, justice reform and access to legal resources. He emphasized a commitment to fairness and integrity in the judicial process.
2nd District Court Judge Family Court Judge 2024 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES
Chris J. Coschignano
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 60
Legal career: Chris J. Coschignano is a seasoned attorney and a candidate for family court judge, practicing law since 1990. As a member and partner at his firm — Sahn Ward — he specializes in zoning and land use planning, real estate law, municipal law, economic development, and family law. His extensive experience includes managing complex zoning projects on Long Island, earning recognition for smart growth initiatives. He served as a councilman for the Town of Oyster Bay from 2001 to 2017 and has held various municipal roles since 1995, including counsel to the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals.
Coschignano is active in community service, serving on multiple boards, including the Nassau County Bar Association and the Touro Law Center. He co-founded the St. Edward the Confessor Church’s Annual Summer Festival and coaches youth ice hockey. A recipient of numerous awards, he is committed to public service and education
Veronica Renta Irwin
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 50
Legal career: Judge Veronica Renta Irwin, currently serving on the Nassau County District Court, is running for re-election in the 2nd District.
Renta Irwin completed her early education at Brentwood High School before earning her degree from SUNY Albany and graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1999.
Starting her legal career in private practice, she founded her own firm, Irwin & Streiner, LLC, in Great Neck in 2001, focusing on personal ijury, guardianship and constitutional violations. Renta Irwin also has experience as principal law clerk for Nassau County Supreme Court Justice Sharon M.J. Gianelli from 2020 to 2024. She has also been involved in various legal organizations, including theLong Island Hispanic Bar Association, where is a past president, and as a board member of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association. She also teaches at the School of Law at Hofstra University.
Andrea C. Phoenix
Democrat
Age: 59
Legal career: Phoenix has served as a Nassau County District Court judge in the Tenth Judicial District since 2007, where she presides over the Nassau County Mental Health Court and the Drug Treatment Court. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University, a master’s degree in communication and education from The Ohio State University, and a J.D. from the Hofstra University, Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
Before her election, Phoenix practiced family law in private practice from 1992 to 2006 and was a staff attorney with Nassau Suffolk Law Services. She has led the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association, and she served on the New York State Unified Court System Family Violence Task Force.
She is also involved with the Amistad Black Bar Association, Theodore Roosevelt American Inn of Court, and community groups, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and The Links, Incorporated.
Lisa Daniels
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 58
Legal career: Lisa Daniels has over 25 years of legal experience, focusing on family litigation and guardianship cases.
Daniels holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a Brooklyn Law School law degree She has been an adjunct professor, teaching family law and litigation at Hofstra University and Queens College from 1997 to 2001. Daniels is a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee on Children and the Law and serves on its legislation subcommittees. She is also a member of the Nassau County Bar Association Family Court Advisory Committee. Daniels ran for county legislator in 2013 and eight years later. In 1998, Daniels founded her law firm, addressing a wide range of family law issues, such as juvenile delinquency actions, abuse and neglect matters. She is listed on the New York State Court Part 36 Fiduciary List, serving as a court examiner, evaluator and guardian for incapacitated individuals.
Joseph Nocella Jr.
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 60
Legal career: Joseph Nocella Jr. currently serves as a Nassau County District Court judge, having been elected to the position for the 2023 to 2028 term. County Executive Bruce Blakeman initially appointed him to the court in 2022.
Before becoming a judge, Nocella served as the town attorney for Hempstead from 2021 to 2022 and as chief of staff to the Hempstead Town Supervisor from 2020 to 2021.
From 2017 to 2020, he was the town attorney for Oyster Bay. Within Nassau County government, Nocella has an extensive background, including positions as Counsel to the Office of Housing & Community Development from 2014 to 2017, Managing Attorney in the County Attorney’s Office from 2011 to 2014, and Counsel to both the County Executive and the Nassau County Legislature from 2006 to 2008 and again from 2010 to 2011.
Sean Wright
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 54
Legal career: Sean Wright, a longtime Valley Stream resident, is running for District Court Judge in the 2nd District, bringing decades of legal experience and community service to his campaign.
Wright has spent more than seven years as a prosecutor for Valley Stream, where he handled ticket and building violation cases. Inn 2011 when he became a Hempstead Town attorney and worked as an arbitrator for both Queens and Nassau County. He has served as treasurer for the Friends of Bridge, a substance abuse counseling center, and has volunteered as an attorney adviser for High School Mock Trial, where he helped teacha new generation of legal minds. His dedication to local youth extended to the sports field as an assistant coach for the Valley Stream Green Hornets.
In 2016, Wright was appointed to the Valley Stream village board by Mayor Ed Fare after the resignation of Virginia ClavinHiggins
County Court Judge
Jeffrey A. Goodstein
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 57
Legal career: Jeffrey A. Goodstein is running for Nassau County Court Judge. Goodstein has served as an acting justice of the Nassau County Supreme Court in the 10th Judicial District since 2012, appointed by Chief Administrative Judge A. Gail Prudenti. He also holds a position as a judge in the New York Court of Claims, appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2012 and reappointed in 2014. Goodstein earned his law degree from Touro Law School and has served in various legal capacities throughout his career. He is also an adjunct professor at St. John’s University School of Law.
On the issues:
Anthony D’Esposito, a Republican and former NYPD detective, won the district in the 2022 midterm elections defeating Laura Gillen, and flipping the seat from Democratic to the GOP control for the first time in 25 years.
He said he is working hard noting as there are 75,000 more Democrats in the district than Republicans.
4th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
Anthony D’Esposito
Party: Republican
D’Esposito’s platform continues to emphasize affordability, increased funding for local schools, and opposes “cashless bail” policies, which he says have contributed to rising crime. He also suports eliminating the cap on state and local tax deductions.
D’Esposito noted his work to retun money to the district for water cleanup in Hempstead village and to mitigate flooding in low-lying South Shore communities, a majority of the district, including his hometown of Island Park.
Along with partnering with local elected officials to make the communities more sustainable, considering the damage the area suffered after
Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
He said he is opposed to a federal ban on abortion.
On immigration he supported the House bill known as H.R. 2 that addressed issues regarding immigration and border security, including by imposing limits to asylum eligibility, but points to the Democratic-led Senate that did not put the measure up for a vote.
D’Esposito said he prioritizes public safety and said he strongly support Israel and Ukraine.
His re-election bid has been overshadowed by an ethics complaint.
A Democratic action committee has accused him of hiring his fiancée’s daughter and a woman he allegedly had a personal relationship with for taxpayer-funded positions in his district office.
The allegations have prompted calls for an expedited investigation, though D’Esposito has denied any wrongdoing and views it as a personal, private matter.
Laura Gillen is mounting a campaign centered on supporting middle-class families, defending women’s rights, and tackling pressing social justice issues.
As a former Town of Hempstead Supervisor, Gillen made history in 2017 as the first Democrat to hold the office in over a century. Her tenure was marked by key accomplishments, including passing transparency reforms, modernizing the town’s digital infrastructure, and allocating over $59 million to repair local roads. She lost her re-election bid in 2019, but remained an active figure in Nassau County politics.
On the issues:
wake the Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade. She criticized D’Esposito’s support for anti-abortion policies, arguing that his stance is out of touch with the values of Long Island voters. She said she stands strong stand against the rise of antisemitism, particularly in the wake of increasing incidents in schools, synagogues and on social media. Her action plan is aimed at combating hate, which includes leveraging federal resources to improve safety in schools, providing more protection for synagogues, and increasing oversight of social media platforms to prevent the spread of hateful content.
Gillen has made it clear that her campaign is focused on delivering for Long Island families. She has emphasized her commitment to reinstating the State and Local Tax deduction, a key economic issue for many county residents.
Gillen is a staunch advocate for reproductive rights, vowing to fight for the restoration of legal abortion in the
Senate DiStrict 6
As a mother of four, Gillen said she brings a personal connection, emphasizing that she understands the challenges facing families in her district. She believes that her bipartisan approach as town supervisor, where she worked with a GOP-majority board, demonstrates her ability to get things done while staying true to her principles.
Thomas Montefinise, a lifelong Oceanside resident.
A graduate of Hofstra University and CUNY School of Law, Montefinise’s career spans a range of roles, from repairing commercial kitchen equipment to practicing law in family, criminal, and matrimonial cases.
On the issues:
A key issue driving Montefinise’s platform is the rise in crime across Long Island, which he attributes to the state’s controversial bail reform laws. The laws allows individuals charged with misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies to be released while awaiting trial. Montefinise sees flaws in the system.
“There’s a process. Everybody deserves a day in court, but you also need to give the tools to the prosecutors and police to get their job done,” Montefinise said.
He stressed that the erosion of trust in law enforcement can unravel the justice
system: “If people start feeling like they can’t call the police, the system falls apart.”
He is also focused on the struggles of Long Island’s middle class, whom he believes are being “squeezed out” by rising costs. He calls for smarter spending and resource allocation, pointing to ongoing challenges such as inflation and the influx of migrants.
“We need to raise wages and incentivize programs,” Montefinise said, emphasizing the need to reallocate funds rather than continually increasing spending. “We’re cutting money and spending it in all the wrong places,” he added, pointing to mismanaged state resources as a source of frustration.
“I’ve met a lot of people,” he said. “I’ve never done something like this before, but I’ve been hearing about the economy, prices of goods, inflation, and safety. It’s been an awesome experience.”
Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe is focusing on her extensive public service record and community values. Her career includes serving such as commissioner of the North Hempstead Housing Authority and on the Westbury Board of Education.
On the issues:
Bynoe highlighted significant county legislative accomplishments, such as the passage of the Ground Water and Public Supply Facts Report Law and the introduction of police body cameras in Nassau County. She stressed that these efforts are part of her broader mission to ensure Long Islanders’ concerns are prioritized in Albany.
She aims to protect Nassau University Medical Center, which provides critical services but faced financial challenges earlier this year. Bynoe advocates for the development of housing options on NUMC’s campus, with a focus on workforce and senior housing to benefit the surrounding community and ensure
access to healthcare.
“There are opportunities there for senior housing, workforce housing, especially for folks who we want to ensure have access to health care,” she said.
She helped passed a county bill to study alternatives to traditional police responses to mental health crises, and she supports the expansion of wellness centers in schools.
“We should go to those community organizations, including schools, that can host those types of facilities on their campuses and have folks that are already doing the work, fund them, and go in and talk to the young people,” she said.
Bynoe seeks to advocate for the issues that matter most to her constituients
“Making sure that we have a voice — a strong voice in the Senate that really has a pulse on the issues and the concerns of Long Islanders,” she said.
Laura Gillen Party: Democrat
Congressional District 4 includes the South Shore Nassau County communities from the western county border to Seaford.
Siela Bynoe Party: Democrat
Thomas Philip Montenfinise Party: Republican
GENERAL ELECTION Candidates
Democratic Electors
Amendment to Protect Against Unequal Treatment
This proposal would protect against unequal treatment based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity and pregnancy. It also protects against unequal treatment based on reproductive healthcare and autonomy.
A “YES” vote puts these protections in the New York State Constitution.
A “NO” vote leaves these protections out of the State Constitution.
Enmienda para Proteger Contra el Trato Desigual
Esta propuesta protegería contra el trato desigual basado en la etnicidad, el origen nacional, la edad, la discapacidad y el sexo, incluida la orientación sexual, la identidad de género y el embarazo. También protege contra el trato desigual basado en la salud y la autonomía reproductiva.
Un voto “SÍ” coloca estas protecciones en la Constitución del Estado de Nueva York. Un voto “NO” deja estas protecciones fuera de la Constitución del Estado.
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente
Kamala D. Harris (For President)
Republican Electors
Tim Walz (For Vice President)
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente Donald J. Trump (For President)
JD Vance (For Vice President)
Representative in Congress District 4
Representante en el Congreso Distrito 4
Laura Gillen (D,CS)
United States Senator
Senador Estatal, Distrito
Kirsten E. Gillibrand (D, WF) Diane Sare (L)
State Senator District 6
Senador Estatal, Distrito 6
Kim Keiserman (D)
Justice
ELECTIon’24
actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to reflect all the districts within the communities covered Specific candidates for individual communities are identified in blue. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the LIHerald.com under the Elections ’24 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com
Member of Assembly District 18
de la Asamblea Distrito 13 Vote for One (1)
Burroughs (D, WFP) Danielle Smikle (R,C)
Member of Assembly District 21
de la Asamblea Distrito 21 Vote for One (1) Griffin (D) Brian Curran (R,C)
Hempstead Council Member District 5
del Concejo de Hempstead, Distrito 5
Vote for One (1)
Kevan Abrahams (D) Christopher Schneider (R,C)
Justice of the Supreme Court
la Corte Suprema (Vote for up to Eight) (8)
F. Matthews, Jr. (D,R,C)
Roth (D,R,C)
Deanna D. Panico (D,R,C)
Terence P. Murphy (D,R,C)
Alfred C. Graf (D,R,C)
Paul E. Hennings (D,R,C)
Paul M. Hensley (D,R,C)
Andrew A. Crecca (D,R,C)
County Court Judge
Juez del Tribunal del Condado Jeffrey A. Goodstein(D,R,C)
Family Court Judge
Juez del Tribunal de Familia
Lisa Daniels (D,R,C)
Chris J. Coschignano (D,R,C)
Joseph Nocella, Jr. (D,R,C)
District Court Judge District 2
Juez del Tribunal de Distrito
Andrea C. Phoenix (D,R,C) Veronica Renta Irwin (D,R,C)
Ryan E. Cronin (D,R,C) Sean Wright (D,R,C)
On the issues:
This is Noah Burroughs’ first time running for office, but he claims he is ready to address the individual needs of the district’s diverse communities, including his hometown of Hempstead.
“Every district, every town, hamlet, they’re all going to be different,” Burroughs said. “So everyone’s going to have a different need must discuss to figure out how to correct those issues.”
Assembly District 18
Noah Burroughs Party: Democrat
As a Hempstead village board trustee since 2022, Burroughs, 47, has advocated for improvements to the village water quality infrastructure due to elevated levels of 1,4 dioxane found in the water supply, and he and the board have pushed for revitalized green spaces in the community.
His background as an educator for over 20 years has made him aware of growing concerns over school safety and funding issues. He said he is committed to being an “open-door elected official” to facilitate
Brian Curran, after serving in the Assembly from 2010 to 2018, returned to the Legislature in 2022, representing the 21st A.D.
During his earlier tenure, Curran was a key figure on several committees.
Previously he was mayor of Lynbrook and is admitted to practice law in New York and Connecticut, which he believes strengthens his legislative work.
On the issues:
communication with school districts.
Burroughs also expressed his goal of improving the district overall by tackling the rise in housing costs and bringing more restaurants and businesses to the area.
He identified steep down payments and high mortgage interest rates as the issues families looking for affordable housing in the district are facing, and he suggested offering tax breaks to incentivize businesses to open locally and reduce the tax burden on homeowners.
He believes voting for candidates who will advocate for their interests should be a priority for constituents in District 18.
“I tell the people in those communities that it’s not up to me to handle it; it’s up to us to handle it,” Burroughs said. “And how do you do that? You do that by your direct elections.”
Danielle Smikle, 27, a Freeport native, is a firsttime candidate for the New York State Assembly. She brings a background in education and technology and has taught coding and drone programs to students.
On the issues:
Smikle is focused on improving infrastructure, particularly water quality in Uniondale, and revitalizing commercial areas like Freeport’s North Main Street.
Danielle Smikle Party: Republican
She advocates for expanding STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education and prioritizing mental health resources. Smikle’s plans to foster stronger community bonds, advance infrastructure projects, and ensure local schools provide the resources needed for students to thrive in the modern economy.
“At the end of the day, you are going to be elite after you figure out what all this means,” she said. “They have it in the other communities. Why
Assembly District 18 includes Freeport, Hempstead, Malverne, Uniondale and West Hempstead.
Assembly District 21
He is a proponent of the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Noting that its time and expectations are “unrealistic.” “Everybody wants clean water, air, environment. I think it was a bad plan with the best of intention’s, but it’s a bad plan.”
The measure addresses climate change to reach net zero emissions in the state. It sets the goals to reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and then to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.
He is concernd for what he called a surge of air traffic over his district, noting
can’t we have it here for our students?
Smikle plans to engage residents directly, ensuring their voices are heard in policymaking through community events and open dialogue. She believes in actively listening to community members, and ensuring their voices are heard in policymaking.
Her vision includes organizing events and encouraging collaboration between residents, businesses, and government to tackle district-wide issues collectively.
“You can’t make policy in a vacuum,” Smikle said. “You need to be on the ground, listening to people’s concerns, whether it’s the elderly, the youth, or small-business owners. Sometimes the best ideas come from the people who are living these issues day in and day out.”
electiOn ‘24
the Federal Aviation Agency’s report of a fourfold increase. Curran said he supported legislation for a health study on airplane noise. He said that findings have yet to be released
Curran said he has advocated for increasing funding for school resource officers and has partnered with his village mayors to attain grants for upgrading school security systems.
An opponent of the congestion pricing plan that was halted by Gov. Kathy Hochul, Curran called an unfair burden on middle-class workers. While simultaneously saying that Hochul’s pause came after $200 million in tax dollars were spent.
He said he aims to continue supporting expansion the STAR exemptions, which help reduce school taxes for homeowners, especially seniors. He opposed the bail reforms that became law in 2018, saying that after four failed attempts to rectify the measure, judges should be give more discretion to determine whether bail should be set. “Public safety has to come first,” Curran said.
Judy Griffin is hoping to reclaim the 21st Assembly District seat. Griffin narrowly lost the seat to incumbent Assemblyman Brian Curran in 2022 by 138 votes. Griffin initially defeated Curran in 2018, marking the first time a Democrat and a woman held the seat in 42 years.
On the issues:
During her tenure from 2019 to 2022, she secured over $8 million in funding for local services, including schools, libraries, and emergency services.
She disagreed with fellow Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul on Hochul’s take about reimagining foundation aid, which would have cut more than $400 million statewide, leaving schools to face more than $230 million in proposed cuts.
Griffin said she would stress a more collaborative approach with state lawmakers, the governor’s staff and various stakeholders, and meet before legislative session begins in January.
She challenged the GOP view that bail reform created a “revolving door” for the convicted. She remains committed to ensuring equality in the legal system,
Griffin said she has worked closely with district attorneys and police unions in a series of revisions to help ensure the law appropriately categorizes non-violent offenses.
She noted her role in the Red Flag Gun Law, which aims to prevent people who pose a threat to themselves or others from obtaining firearms. A supporter of the proposed Prop 1 amendment, Griffin stressed that it not only affirms fundamental rights but also provides legal protections against discrimination of marginalized communities.
She said that housing is a great need, but needs to be addressed strategically, providing suburban municipalities the opportunity to weigh in. Collaboration and addressing disparities would help build a better future in Nassau County, she said.
Griffin has championed the creation of health and wellness with-in school districts in Baldwin and Freeport, which provide support for physical and mental wellbeing.
Judy Griffin Party: Democrat
Brian Curran Party: Republican
‘24
Hempstead CounCil member distriCt 5
Chris Schneider, the newly appointed Town of Hempstead Councilman for the 5th District, is running in the November special election to continue his decades-long commitment to public service.
He was unanimously appointed to the board in August after the death of Chris Carini in July.
A Seaford resident and Wantagh High School graduate, Schneider’s career in government began in 2002, with roles in the Nassau County Legislature and the New York State Senate. He also held a senior leadership position at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
Schneider, 45, said replacing Carini was bittersweet, as Carini had been a close friend and collaborator for years.
on the issues:
One of Carini’s legacies that Schneider is eager to support is the town’s Quality of Life Task Force, which addresses community issues such as
graffiti and illegal ads.
Schneider said he plans to expand and strengthen the task force, as he believes preserving a community’s appearance has a direct impact on residents’ quality of life.
Schneider has also represented Seaford on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Community Council since 2022, advocating for school safety, monitoring illegal smoke shops, and ensuring police stay responsive to community concerns. He supports the town’s efforts to remain fiscally responsible and says he is committed to finding ways to “do more with less” amid rising costs.
He emphasizes the importance of communication and accessibility. He has connected with local civic leaders, fire departments, clergy, and veterans’ organizations to understand their needs and ensure he’s available to address community concerns.
“I’m accessible if they have a problem,” he said.
Former Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams is returning to politics with a clear focus on making the Town of Hempstead more affordable for all residents.
on the issues:
The Democrat and Freeport resident, sees affordability as the town’s most pressing issue.
Abrahams, 50, served in the Nassau County Legislature for over two decades, where he said he helped stabilize the county’s finances and spearheaded infrastructure projects.
Kevan Abrahams Party: Democrat
His time in office focused on keeping parks safe, maintaining roads, and ensuring that communities thrived. Now, his top priority is addressing the rising cost of living in Hempstead, particularly the lack of affordable housing for young people and middleaged families.
He expressed concern about the town’s recent $2 million tax levy increase, arguing that rising fees for services like pool passes, parking
Counselmanic District 5 includes Bellmore, Freeport, Leittown, Lido Beacg Point Lookout and Seaford.
permits, and sports leagues are unfairly burdening residents. He has vowed to scrutinize any proposed tax hikes and fiscal decisions to ensure they benefit taxpayers.
Abrahams also highlighted the importance of infrastructure, noting his past work in mitigating flooding in Freeport. He plans to focus on maintaining town roads and improving drainage systems to prevent flooding and disrepair.
He also said he wants to ensure that residents have access to essential services, like safe roads, well-maintained parks, and reliable public safety. His campaign aims to provide an alternative voice on the Town Board, advocating for policies that lower costs for residents.
“We cannot have a blind eye to what we do in the town, in regards to the increasing of tax or park fees or anything along those lines,” he said. “We have to lessen the burden, not add to it.”
Town approves preliminary 2025 budget
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Town of Hempstead residents are expecting to pay more taxes next year — $5 more for those who live in villages, and $65 more for those who live in unincorporated areas.
The Town Board approved the preliminary 2025 budget on Oct. 1, adopting a $549 million spending plan, an increase of 4.9 percent. The tax levy will increase from $346 million to $389 million — a jump of over 12 percent that will far exceed the state tax cap of roughly 2 percent.
Town Comptroller John Mastromarino stated at a budget hearing on Oct. 15 that the town has managed to postpone tax increases over the past few years by utilizing reserve funds. But, he said, those funds are now running low, which is necessitating the tax increase.
“The town hasn’t had a tax increase in four years,” Mastromarino said. During that time, he added, the cost of living across the country increased by almost 28 percent, “and what we were doing was utilizing the reserves to protect our taxpayers,” Mastromarino said.
“The reserves were used, the taxpayers were protected, and it’s now at a point where we just can’t do it anymore,” he said.
Mastromarino said that the town used $22 million of reserve funds.
Where your tax dollars could go
School districts: 64 percent
Nassau County: 14 percent
Special districts: 10 percent
Villages: 7 percent
Towns: 4 percent
Cities: 1 percent
Before the budget hearing, community members rallied outside Town Hall, organized by members of the Nassau County Legislature’s Democratic caucus, who oppose the proposed tax increases. They accused the board of lacking transparency and failing to adequately inform the public about budgetary changes.
Attendees highlighted the already high cost of living that many residents are struggling with as they face the need to find additional funds to meet their tax obligations.
Former County Legislator Kevan Abrahams, who is challenging Republican Town Councilman Christopher Schneider to serve the balance of the term of Christopher Carini, who died in July,
spoke at the rally.
“There’s no transparency — there’s no visibility,” Abrahams said of the board’s budgeting process. “They try to do this in the cloak of darkness and they’re trying to squeak it past you. It’s called a sneaky weasel tax.”
In a letter about the budget proposal distributed among those who attended the hearing, Town Supervisor Donald Clavin stated that the spending plan was “fiscally responsible” and would enhance the town’s quality of life.
“Residents love the Town of Hemp -
Town Supervisor Donald Clavin addressed board members during a budget hearing on Oct. 15, at which they discussed the preliminary 2025 budget of $549 million.
Hernesto Galdamez/Herald
stead, and for many good reasons,” Clavin wrote. “Our beaches, parks, and nature preserves are second to none. We have some of the finest restaurants, shops, and small businesses around. Our schools, athletic programs, community organizations, senior centers, and other public resources are among the best in the nation.
“This superlative quality-of-life experience paired with top-notch government services is what continues to make Hempstead Town a great place to live, work, and raise a family,” he added.
Chris Schneider Party: Republican
STEPPING OUT
Get your scare on with Halloween-inspired shindig
Ghoul out with some festive merrymaking
By Karen Bloom
The countdown is now on to spooking and assorted revelry. The signs of that festive day are all around us as all those ghouls, witches and wizards look forward to Oct. 31.
So throw on a costume and act like a kid — with or without the kids. Transform your house into a spooky (or mildy spooky lair) with party tricks and Halloween treats. Set the scene with a mad scientist-themed sweets table and carry it home with a crazy good menu featuring frightfully yummy appetizers, some mocktails for the kids (and non-drinkers in your crowd) and, of course, treats.
Dress up the details: Many folks can’t wait to dress up for a Halloween party, but that’s not so for everyone. Don’t make costumes mandatory. Instead offer a table of accessories that anyone can borrow and use to alter their appearance. Goofy glasses, strange hats, adhesive mustaches, or masks can be fun.
Have fun with Halloween cuisine. Cookie cutters can turn sandwiches, desserts, biscuits — just about anything — into different shapes. Foods also can be made a tad more spooky simply by renaming them or presenting them in interesting containers. Beverages can be offered in jugs or old bottles and labeled “potions.”
Try these tricked-out treats for same tasty spooking.
Witches Finger Sandwiches
Entice guests into your lair with some witchy fingers
• 1 (11-oz.) can refrigerated breadsticks
• 6 small slices pepperoni
• 12 (2/3-oz.) slices cheese
• 3/4 cup finely shredded lettuce
Heat oven to 375°F. Separate dough into 12 strips. Place flat on ungreased cookie sheet; do not twist. With sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut 2 small triangles from one end of each dough strip to form a point that resembles a fingertip. Lightly score breadsticks in center to resemble knuckles. Cut each pepperoni slice into 2 pointed ovals to resemble 2 fingernails. Place 1 pepperoni piece on each breadstick.
Bake at 375°F. for 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. If necessary, reapply “fingernails” with small dot of ketchup.
puffs to resemble ghosts onto the remaining baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven until dried and firm, about 1 hour. Turn off the oven, close the door, and cool until completely dried, about 1 hour more.
Dip the tip of a toothpick into melted chocolate and dot chocolate “eyes” on each of the ghosts.
Spiderweb Cheesecake
Snare your guests with some spider web cheesecake. Use your favorite 9” cheesecake recipe.
Topping:
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup milk, cream, sour cream or ricotta cheese
Web:
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chunks or chips
First, make your favorite 9” cheesecake, one using a graham cracker crust. Add 1/4 cup black cocoa to the crust, before pressing it into the pan. Bake the cake as directed; remove from the oven, and let it cool.
To make the topping: Whip the heavy cream with the sugar just until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the sour cream just until combined.
Spread the topping over the cooled cheesecake.
Rock the Dock
Ambrosia, John Ford Coley and Peter Beckett (The Voice of Player), come together for a magical night performing all of their 1970s and ‘80s Billboard Top 40 Hits, on the Tilles Center stage, Yacht Rock the Dock shines the spotlight on the original artists, with Elliot Lurie, as they reinvigorate their many beloved tunes. Enjoy Ambrosia’s everlasting hits including “How Much I Feel,” “You’re the Only Woman” and “Biggest Part of Me.” John Ford Coley, most known as half of the Grammy-nominated duo England Dan and John Ford Coley, performs many memorable hits, including “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” “Love Is The Answer” and “Nights Are Forever Without You.” These songs are the soundtrack to a generation.Today’s so-called smooth yacht rock music scene would not be yacht rock without the contributions of these Grammy winning artists.
Friday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
‘Old Time Rock’
Split each breadstick. Cut each cheese slice into strips and place in breadstick, overlapping strips. Top each with lettuce. If desired, serve with mustard, mayonnaise or ketchup. Serve warm or cold. Note: Place leftover small triangular dough pieces on cookie sheet; bake until crisp. Use as croutons or nibblers.
Spooky Bones and Ghosts
Chase the demons away with a few “bones.”
• 2 large egg whites
• 2 drops fresh lemon juice, or more to taste
• 7 tablespoons white sugar, or more to taste
• 2 chocolate chips, melted, or as needed
Preheat oven to 225°F. Line 2 baking sheets with silicone baking mats.
Whisk eggs whites and lemon juice together in a bowl until thick, white, and foamy. Add sugar a spoonful at a time, whisking constantly, until meringue is shiny, thick, and holds its shape.
Transfer meringue to a piping bag. Pipe 12 bone shapes onto a prepared baking sheet. Pipe 12
To make the chocolate web: Heat the cream until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate and stir. The chocolate will begin to form one mass. Keep stirring until all the chocolate has melted — the cream should be hot enough to melt all the chocolate. If not, reheat briefly.
Transfer the melted chocolate to a piping bag fitted with a small tip (or a zip-top bag with one corner cut to form a 1/8” opening). Pipe one central dot onto the cream topping, then six concentric circles around the dot, spaced 1/2” apart.
Beginning with the center circle, gently pull a toothpick through all the circles toward the outer edge. Wipe the toothpick clean and repeat, moving clockwise and dragging the toothpick through at every eighth segment of the circle to complete the web pattern.
Peter Lemongello, Jr., the son of Long Island’s legendary star, returns to the Landmark stage. He takes his audience on a nostalgic musical journey from the 1960s through the’ 80s with his “Old Time Rock ‘N Roll” show. Accompanied by his eight-piece band, Peter delivers an engaging performance that evokes pure emotion. He continues to honor his father’s legacy — Peter Lemongello was the first artist to sell over a million albums on TV, through an innovative TV commercial campaign that paved the way for music video infomercials and MTV. A special highlight is Peter Jr.’s heartfelt tribute to his father, performing the hit “Do I Love You,” written by Paul Anka, which his Dad debuted on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.”
Friday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or by contacting Gene DiNapoli at (917) 567-5842.
Witches Finger Sandwiches Spooky Bones and Ghosts Spiderweb Cheesecake
THE Your Neighborhood
America
The perennial classic rock favorite is back on the road again as founding member Dewey Bunnell celebrates the band’s 54rd anniversary, appearing on the Tilles Center stage, Saturday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m. Billed as “Ride On Tour 2024, will draw on the band’s deep catalog of hits including signature song “A Horse With No Name,” a Number One hit on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1972. Bunnell and America’s co-founder Gerry Beckley (along with former band mate Dan Peek), who met in high school in London in the late 1960s, quickly harmonized their way to the top of the charts on the strength of that tune. Forty plus years later, these friends continue to make music together (although Beckley has now retired from touring) thrilling audiences with their timeless sound. Yet beyond their impressive catalog of hits, listeners discovered there was always much more to America than surface perceptions. The combination of Beckley’s melodic pop rock and Bunnell’s use of folk-jazz elements, slinky Latin-leaning rhythms and impressionistic lyric imagery contrasted well with Peek’s more traditional country-rock leanings and highly personal lyrics. On their way to becoming a global household name, America’s journey found them exploring a wide variety of musical terrain. Their best-known tunes, including “I Need You,” “Ventura Highway,” “Don’t Cross The River,” “Tin Man,” “Lonely People,” and “Sister Golden Hair” were beloved as cornerstones of 1970s Top 40 and FM rock radio. From their formative years, America has been a band capable of transcending borders with its uplifting music and positive message. Embracing a rainbow of divergent cultures, America’s audiences continue to grow, comprising a loyal legion of first, second and third generation fans, all bearing testament to the group’s enduring appeal. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Walking Wednesday
Join Maryellen Cantanno for Walking Wednesdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m.; next session is oct. 9. Enjoy a 45-minute group walk at a pace set by participants, with all fitness levels welcome. Guided by the health team from Mount Sinai/ South Nassau Hospital, walkers will learn how to stay in tune with their bodies. Some weeks may include off-site meet-ups around the village, and in case of rain, the walk will be held at the Freeport Recreation Center. Call the library to find out this week’s location. Participants must sign a waiver prior to join, which can be found on the library’s website. Visit FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information. 144 West Merrick Road.
Freeport Gem and Mineral Show
Examine earth’s beauty at the Freeport Gem and Mineral Show, Saturday and Sunday, oct. 26-27. Open Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at the Freeport Recreation Center. Explore an array of vendors showcasing minerals, crystals, and gemstones, with some specializing in the metaphysical properties of these natural treasures. With a different mix of vendors at each show, there’s always something new to discover. For more information, visit kaleidoscopegemshows.com. 130 E. Merrick Road, Freeport.
Spooky Fest is back
A Halloween experience not to be missed, Spooky Fest is an outdoor adventure perfect for families, whether you want to be scared — or prefer seasonal fun of the non-scary kind. Join in the fun at the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout October. Along the way in the updated and beautifully lit up Enchanted Walk you will see dinosaurs, aliens and friendly witches, costumed characters and more, including the Mystical Garden. Get your fortune told, make a craft and dance with the Halloween DJ, along with face painting and the Amazing Glow tent. For those who want a scare, venture into the Haunted Woods, where zombies and dinosaurs hang out. Admission starts at $22. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Visit CSTL.org for call (516) 7640045 for more information.
‘The Birthday Party’ Looking for something to do this Halloween season that isn’t just for kids? Visit Sands Point Preserve for an exclusive, immersive theatrical production, “The Birthday Party,” held in a secluded opulent mansion, Friday, Oct. 25, also Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. For those who attended Archie’s last “Birthday Party,” rest assured, there are new surprises in store.
Guests will be blindfolded and escorted to a secret location on the property, Villa Vanitas, to celebrate the enigmatic Lord Archibald Axel Von Finkelshorn Chatterton’s 30th birthday. He is a witless charmer on the cusp of a life-changing revelation, and everyone’s invited to witness his journey on a night that promises to be unforgettable and delightfully unpredictable. Cocktail attire preferred. $175 per person. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Dog Days Weekend
Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 26-27, 10 a.m.6 p.m. With dog parade and costume contest on Sunday, 3-5 p.m. Prizes awarded to best dog costumes, including Prettiest, Most Handsome, Most Original, Best Duo or Group, Funniest. Costume contest participants must register. Advance ticket purchase for weekend events required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048.
Having an event?
In concert
Musical quintet Sybarite visits Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center, Friday, Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m. The ensemble is known for bridging genre gaps to bring unexpected musical combinations together to create a unique, dynamic concert experiences. Equal parts passion, grit, and musical ecstasy, it’s an intoxicating cocktail of genre-breaking artistry expressed through the virtuosity of violinists Sami Merdinian and Suliman Tekalli, violist Caeli Smith, cellist Laura Andrade, and double bassist Louis Levitt. The group is constantly evolving, defying categorization, and keeping audiences on their toes. Tickets start at $35. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. Visit Adelphi.edu/pac for tickets and information or call (516) 877-4000.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition spans various world cultures through a range of media.
It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
On stage
See Anton Chekhov’s “The Seagull,” presented by Nassau Community College Theater and Dance Department, opening Friday, Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m.; also Saturday, Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 29-30, 7;30 p.m. Delve into the lives of Arkádina, a famous — but fading — actress, and that of her lover, Trigórin, a well-known author. They arrive at her brother Sórin’s country estate for the summer, just as son Konstantín is staging an experimental new play he’s written and directed, starring his girlfriend, Nína.
Chekhov’s first successful naturalist play follows the lives of young artists as they navigate life. Thematically, it’s a study of the arts and the artist, the lack of real satisfaction to be found there, the pretense and mediocrity that pervade the practice, and yet the power and mystery that are possible. $12; NCC students free $10 veterans,
Chamber throws 25th annual Golf Classic
Chamber of Commerce’s yearly event brings community together for friendly competition
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
The 25th annual Freeport Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic took place under sunny skies at the Middle Bay Country Club, delivering a day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and community spirit. Hosted on Oct. 8, the event was a testament to the enduring legacy of the golf classic and its importance to the Freeport community.
With perfect weather setting the stage, 71 golfers came together for the morning’s festivities, followed by a dinner attended by 80 guests, including most of the golfers. The event kicked off with great enthusiasm as participants formed teams and prepared for a day of competition. The team of Matt Wilson, Jeremy Smith, Joe Tripi, and Rob Randall claimed first place with an impressive score of 64. Other standout performances included Tucker Williams and Christina Feile, who won the closest-to-the-pin competitions for men and women, respectively. Will Blum and Sue Lyons took home the titles for the longest drives.
While the event featured a special prize—a 2024 BMW X1 donated by BMW of Freeport for a hole-in-one—no participant managed to secure the keys. Teams from Montana’s and Jeremy’s Ale House vied closely for the prize, adding a thrilling element to the day.
Throughout the day, participants enjoyed lunch provided by Middle Bay Country Club, along with samples from local restaurant Nunzi’s By the Water, which served up their famous Saffron Arancini and Grandma’s Meatballs. The day concluded with a dinner hosted at Bayview on the Water, where Mike Dannon and his staff created an inviting atmosphere that left attendees rav-
ing about the food and ambiance.
Among the dinner guests were notable community figures, including Freeport Mayor Robert T. Kennedy, Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow, and a representative from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. The evening’s honorees, Police Chief Michael Smith and PBA President Detective Shawn Randall, were recognized for their contributions to the Village of Freeport, receiving plaques and citations from the chamber and local dignitaries.
The evening also included a raffle with gifts donated by local merchants, such as C & C Appliance, further adding to the festivities. Sponsors played a crucial role in the event’s success, including dinner sponsors like Michael Dan-
non of Bayview on the Water, Clean Air Solutions Group, and George Voulagarakis of Dimirtri Painting. The cocktail hour was supported by sponsors such as Jenny Jorge of Gala Foods and Jorge Martinez of J & A Group, while Catcher’s Fish House and Jaguar of Freeport sponsored the driving range.
John Nuzzi, who has been a part of the golf classic’s journey, provided a rich history of the event, recalling memorabilia that dates back to 2000. He emphasized the event’s roots in raising funds for the local community and honoring those who contribute significantly to Freeport. “I have plaques that date back to 2000,” he shared, reflecting on the event’s longstanding tradition.
John Hrvatin, the current chairperson of the Golf Committee, reminisced
about being honored in 2017, a moment that inspired him to join the committee and oversee the classic’s planning ever since. The golf classic has evolved over the years, growing in scope and influence while staying true to its original mission of supporting Freeport.
About the event Jennifer WintersRunolfsson, the office manager of the Chamber of Commerce said, “it was my first time ever experiencing golf as a whole… the event itself was run extremely well, and it was a lot of fun, and… (the) thing I love about Freeport (is I) really enjoyed seeing how much everybody – even though it was (in) the spirit of competition – they all get along, and they all support one another, and this event really shows that”
The Freeport Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic has become a vital part of the community, offering a platform to foster relationships with local merchants and businesses. Through sponsorships, donations, and the event’s marketing reach, the golf classic helps support the local economy. It also provides opportunities for businesses to engage with the chamber and build lasting partnerships across Long Island.
As the Freeport Chamber of Commerce looks forward to next year’s event, they plan to continue the tradition of community support and collaboration. With a commitment to involving more local businesses and community members, the chamber aims to make future editions of the golf classic even more impactful.
The 25th annual Freeport Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic was more than just a day of golf; it was a celebration of community, tradition, and the spirit of Freeport, setting the tone for many more years of success to come.
Photos courtesy Jennifer Winters-Runolfsson
Pictured here are all the golfers who participated and took part in the event.
PBA President Detective Shawn Randall, left, with Police Chief Michael Smith.
Public Notices
Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None.
12 Not applicable.
13. Publication Title:
FREEPORT HERALD.
14. Issue Date for Circulation
Data Below: SEPTEMBER 24, 2024
15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: a. Total No. Copies: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 5500 Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530
8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. 9 Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher: Richner Communications, Inc., Stuart Richner, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530. Editor: MOHAMED RAFOQ, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530. Managing Editor: JEFF BESSEN, 2 ENDO BLVD, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530.
10. Owner: Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530; Clifford Richner, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530; Stuart Richner, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, Nassau County, NY 11530.
11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of
LEGAL NOTICE
Published Nearest to Filing Date, 5500.
b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 69; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
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Copies of Single Issue
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of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 0. c. Total Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 3281; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees’ Public Budget Workshop Session has been scheduled for Monday, November 4, 2024 and Wednesday, November 6, 2024. The workshop will be conducted according to the following schedule in the Board of Trustees meeting room adjacent to the Mayor’s Office; *scheduled times are subject to change:
MONDAY 11/4 Department Head Department
5:45 PM Taylor D’Orta Purchasing
5:50 Ray Maguire Emergency Management & Fire Don Rowan Department
6:10 Elizabeth Recreation Center Comerford
6:30 Eric Rosmarin IT Frank Prisciandaro
6:40 Conor Kirwan Human Resources
6:55 Michael Smith Police Department
7:20 Howard Colton Counsel
WEDNESDAY, 11/6
5:00 Carmen Ramos Court
5:05 Ismaela Hernandez Treasurer
5:10 Vilma Lancaster Assessor
5:15 Megan Martinez-Ewald Auditor
5:20 Sergio Mauras Building Department
5:40 Robert FisenneBen Terzulli Public Works and Water Department
6:10 Pamela Walsh Boening Clerk
6:15 Alvin McDaniel Comptroller
6:25 Peggy Lester Mayor Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: 10/24/2024 149639
LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
TRUMAN CAPITAL HOLDINGS, LLC, Plaintiff, v. SHERRIL BAEZ AKA
SHERRIL S. BAEZ, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on
Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 4925. g. Copies Not Distributed: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 605; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 575 h. Total: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 5500; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 5500.
i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, 67.03%; Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date, 65.60%.
16. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the October 24, 2024 issue of this publication.
17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Stuart Richner, Owner; Date: October 1, 2024. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material information requested on the form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). 1275282
Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 149320
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
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
MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 13, 2024 at 3:00PM, premises known as 58 LEE STREET, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575; and the following tax map identification: 36-159-141.
ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 600503/2022. Peter Kramer, 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. 149418
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
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
BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 615349/2018. Jerry Merola, 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. 149416
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
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
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 221097-1 149386
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
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
October 4, 2022, I, Scott H. Siller, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on November 7, 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: 808 South Ocean Avenue Freeport, NY 11520 SBL No.: 62-180-429 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State
of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 614142/2019 in the amount of $769,435.71 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.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU FIFTH THIRD BANK, N.A., -againstKATHLEEN MURRAY, 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 December 21, 2023, wherein FIFTH THIRD BANK, N.A. is the Plaintiff and KATHLEEN MURRAY, 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,
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU LOANCARE, LLC, -againstMICHAEL DORFMAN IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, 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 May 24, 2023, wherein LOANCARE, LLC is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL DORFMAN IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 12, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 254 PARK AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 54-209-40 & 41.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ANDRADINA NEVES, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 28, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 8, 2024 at 3:00 p.m., premises known as 138 Dehnhoff Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 245 and Lots 30, 31, and 32. Approximate amount of judgment is $161,884.11 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #601152/2023. Ralph J. Madalena, Esq., Referee
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST II, Plaintiff, vs. COZY NEST HOMES, LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 19, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine”, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 21, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 610 Laurelton Boulevard, Long Beach, NY 11561. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 59, Block 54 and Lots 6-7. Approximate amount of judgment is $643,946.03 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #607903/2023. 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.
Michael Joseph Sepe, Esq., Referee Adam Leitman Bailey, P.C., Attn: Jackie Halpern Weinstein, Esq., One Battery Park Plaza, 18th Floor, New York, New York 10004, Tel: 212.825.0365, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149548
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 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS-SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU - CALCON MUTUAL MORTGAGE LLC DBA ONETRUST HOME LOANS, Plaintiff, -againstSOUTH MAIN RE HOLDINGS LLC; ALAN R. RICHARTZ, JR., if he/she be living and if he/she be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the complaint; MERY ACOSTA AS JOHN DOE #1; MARGARET ANN GRYM AS JOHN DOE #2; SHANASIA “DOE” (REFUSED LAST NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #4 through JOHN DOE #11, Defendants - Index No. 620177/2023 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named Defendants-YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated September 18, 2024. 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
Public Notices
RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (CALCON MUTUAL MORTGAGE LLC
DBA ONETRUST HOME LOANS) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Gary M. Carlton, J.S.C. Dated: September 18, 2024 Filed: September 26, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 261 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520.
Dated: June 24, 2024 Filed: October 8, 2024 Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Raspreet Bhatia, Esq., 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022 P: (212) 524-5000
F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982 149550
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. MTGLQ INVESTORS, LP
Pltf. vs. SHANAI L. JACKSON A/K/A SHANAI JACKSON, et al, Defts. Index #012297/14. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered January 23, 2019, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on November 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 150 Pennsylvania Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575 a/k/a Section 55, Block 423, Lot 4. Said property beginning at a point on the Easterly side of Pennsylvania Avenue, distant 246.00 ft. Northerly from a point formed by the intersection of the Easterly side of Pennsylvania Avenue and the Northerly side of Debevoise Avenue when measured along the Easterly side of Pennsylvania Avenue, being a plot 44 ft. x 89.56 ft. x 44.04 ft. x 87.78 ft.
Approximate amount of judgment is $318,860.51 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. MARIA SIDERIS, Referee. HILL WALLACK, LLP, Attys. for Ptlf., 261 Madison Avenue, 9th Fl.Ste. 940-941, New York, NY 10016. File No. 20021-1397 - #101836 149552
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, NA, AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO ALL PERMITTED SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS OF THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS TRUSTEE FOR FIRST ALLIANCE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 1997-1 MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 1997-1, -againstWINELL THOMAS, AS ALTERNATE EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF KATTE MALOY THOMAS A/K/A KATIE M. THOMAS, 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 July 30, 2024, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, NA, AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO ALL PERMITTED SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS OF THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS TRUSTEE FOR FIRST ALLIANCE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 1997-1 MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 1997-1 is the Plaintiff and WINELL THOMAS, AS ALTERNATE EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF KATTE MALOY THOMAS A/K/A KATIE M. THOMAS, 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 19, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 74 DAVIS STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 55-496-118.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATED, LYING AND BEING AT FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 605597/2017. Russell S. Burman, 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. 149546
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 797 S. Long Beach Ave. Freeport NY, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 08/20/2024.
NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to:_812 Guy Lombardo Ave., Freeport, NY 11520 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 149488
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF TENTATIVE ROLL COMPLETION
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, pursuant to Section 1406 of the Real Property Tax Law of the State of New York, the Assessor of the Village of Freeport, NY has prepared and filed on Friday, November 1, 2024, the 2025/2026 Tentative Assessment Roll for the Fiscal Year beginning March 1, 2025. In accordance with the provisions of section fifteen hundred eighty four of this chapter, an oath in the same form is required and attached to the roll. Pursuant to section 5-510 of the Village law, the Clerk shall cause a notice to be published in the official newspaper of the Village. Such notice shall state that the Assessor has completed the Assessment Roll and that a copy of the Roll is with the Village Clerk of said Village at 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, NY. Where it may be seen and examined by any person during the business hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday excluding holidays beginning from Monday, November 1st until November 19th, 2024. On Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at said Municipal Building between the hours of 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, the Board of Review and the Assessor will meet for the purpose of completing such Assessment Roll and of hearing and determining complaints in relation thereto.
Persons complaining of assessments will be required to file a statement under oath specifying the respect in which the assessment complained is incorrect as provided by law. The prescribed form for the filing of grievances in connection with the Tentative Assessment Roll may be obtained from the Office of the Assessor between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Robert T. Kennedy, Mayor Ronald J. Ellerbe, Deputy Mayor Jorge A. Martinez, Trustee
Christopher L Squeri, Trustee
Evette B. Sanchez, Trustee Vilma I. Lancaster, Assessor 149641
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS PURCHASE OF MISCELLANEOUS HARDWARE - REBID FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “PURCHASE OF MISCELLANEOUS HARDWARE - REBID “ until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud. Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained by visiting the Village website at www.freeportny.gov or obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, October 28, 2024 until 4:30 P.M. Friday, November 8, 2024. There is no fee for a set of bid documents.
The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bid proposals received and subject to these reservations, shall award the contract to the lowest qualified and responsible bidder. Bids which, in the opinion of the Board, are unbalanced shall be rejected.
In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.
Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date -October 24, 2024 149642
LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NOTICE OF ENACTMENT OF LOCAL LAW
WHEREAS notice of public hearing was duly given and said hearing duly held on the 23rd day of September and 21st day of October, 2024 to consider the enactment of the local law described below; NOW, THEREFORE, PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, after due consideration and deliberation, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Freeport duly enacted said local law on the 21st day of October, 2024, and said local law and the Code adopted thereby shall be in full force and effect as provided by law
Crime watCh
Dwi arrest
On Oct. 16 a suspect involved in a traffic accident was found to be intoxicated while operating a vehicle. Freeport Police arrested the individual and processed them at Police Headquarters.
FounD ProPerty
On Oct. 21 Freeport Police documented a report after a wallet was found at a local business.
FrauD
On Oct. 21 Freeport Police reported a case involving an unknown person who made unauthorized purchases using another person’s credit card at a local business. No arrest was requested.
iDentity theFt
On Oct. 18 Freeport Police learned that an unknown person made online purchases using a victim’s debit card.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
Public Notices
upon the filing of a copy of this local law with the Secretary of State. The local law enacted is entitled and described as follows:
LOCAL LAW NO. -2024
A LOCAL LAW TO PROVIDE FOR THE CODIFICATION OF THE LOCAL LAWS, ORDINANCES AND CERTAIN RESOLUTIONS OF THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT INTO A MUNICIPAL CODE TO BE DESIGNATED THE “CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT”
This local law:
(1) States the legislative intent of the Board of Trustees in adopting the Code.
(2) Provides for the designation of the local laws, ordinances and certain resolutions of the Village of Freeport as the “Code of the Village of Freeport.”
(3) Repeals local laws and ordinances of a general and permanent nature not included in the Code, except as provided.
(4) Saves from repeal certain local laws and ordinances and designates certain matters not affected by repeal.
(5) Retains the meaning and intent of previously adopted legislation.
(6) Provides for the filing of a copy of the Code in the Village Clerk’s office.
(7) Provides for certain changes in or additions to the Code.
(8) Provides for minor changes to the zoning code of the Village, including but not limited to changes in fines, change in height permitted in Residence Apartment Districts, changes to the Signs section of the code, change in code regarding display of street numbers and business names, and permitting pools to be installed in rear and side yards.
(9) Prohibits tampering with Code books, with offenses punishable by a fine of not more than $250 or by
imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both.
(10) Establishes when the local law will take effect.
(11) Provides that the local law will be included in the Code as Chapter 1, Article I.
DATED: 10/24/2024
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES VILLAGE OF FREEPORT PAMELA WALSHBOENING VILLAGE CLERK 149643
P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that hearings will be held before the LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 6:30 P.M. in the Main Conference Room in the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York on the applications of the Stearns Park Civic Association to designate the Pillar located at 479 Pennsylvania Avenue, Freeport, NY as a Landmark, the Pillar located at 171 Prince Avenue, Freeport, NY, as a Landmark, and the Pillar located at 172 Prince Avenue, Freeport, NY, as a Landmark. Interested parties may appear at the above time and place in order to be heard. BY ORDER OF THE LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION. PIETRINA J. REDA, Chairperson. 149640
RAE ANN EDWARDS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RAYMOND EDWARDS A/K/A RAYMOND R EDWARDS, KIM HANNAWAY AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RAYMOND EDWARDS A/K/A RAYMOND R EDWARDS, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on September 19, 2024.
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM premises known as 2 Meadow Lane, Freeport, NY 11520. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 36, Block 526 and Lot 13, 22 & 24.
Approximate amount of judgment $395,695.75 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #005320/2016.
William J. Garry, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 149486
2005-1, -againstSABOT RODRIGUEZ, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on October 26, 2018, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-1, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-1 is the Plaintiff and SABOT RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 21, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 51 SAINT MARKS AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 62-138-17.
ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 001253/2017. Arthur I. Shaw, 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. 149624
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department.
Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.
Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$20 - $25/ Hour
Bell Auto School
516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com
EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable
Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.
REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.
POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.
Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com
of acqstn targets. Reqs: BS finc., bsns, or econ+ 2 yrs. exp fincl pln’g and anlys, fincl mgmt, accntng, or rltd disc. Prfcy Excel incl 2
Exp w/ fincl trnsctnl cycles incl orgntn, due dlgnce, rprtng, & exectn; estbls rprtng & mngrial infstrcr folwng acqstn to achv goals frm acqstn mdl; B2C chnls incl exp Consumer Products indsty; genert’g btm up & top down frcsts to drive prfmnc & fincl results; rcnclng items, prprng bdgts & sprtng FP&A prcs. Sal: $85,301 to $90,000 yr. Res: Tortorella Service LLC, helpwanted@tortorella.com.
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Medical Reception/Accounts Receivable
Part Time- back-office work. Rockville Centre. Must be friendly, well-spoken. Computer literacy necessary. Back office includes collections/account receivable, verifying insurance and researching claims and some billing. Must be flexible (days/evenings). $18-$19/ Hourly. Email resume drsmnw@optonline.net or fax resume 516-763-4218.
MULTI MEDIA
ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT
Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators
Victorian Colonial Fixer-Upper
What can we do with our Helene-damaged home?
Q. Our home in Asheville, North Carolina, was damaged by Hurricane Helene. The insurance company was contacted, and several busy contractors have looked at the property as they passed by. One commented that many homes need to be completely rebuilt, because they’re missing parts that protect them from hurricanes, such as “tecos.” What are tecos, and why do they make a difference? Can they be added without tearing our house down? This may push us to just sell, as is, and move on, at a large loss. What can we do?
WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
BETH DAVID CEMETERY Elmont, Individual Cemetery Plot Available. For Information Call Leslie. 212-662-2650.
A. . First, Teco is a brand name for metal connectors that hold lumber building parts together, giving any home greater resistance to being pulled apart by wind. Unfortunately, the company went out of business in the 1990s. It’s a brand name, not a generic term — it’s like saying Kleenex instead of facial tissue. But the name stuck, and is often used by people who have no idea that you can’t get a Teco anymore, but it’s easier than saying joist hanger or connector.
The most-used brand today is Simpson, which is far more sophisticated, for a much wider variety of engineered connections. The key word is “engineered,” and I emphasize it because most users of these products often use the wrong connectors for the wrong purposes. For example, your home, if it’s not completely in splinters, can be saved, but you have to use the right connectors, utilizing manufacturer charts and selecting the right ones based on wind resistance calculations. I’m sure I just lost most readers, because almost nobody actually calculates, or desires to respect, the right use of the right connector, so people go to the store and buy a box of what looks best, what is most available or what costs the least.
While filming the documentary “Hell or High Water,” which never got released due to lack of funding, I got to meet with officials, from (the equivalent of) the mayor to the head of the building department in Moore, Oklahoma, after third-graders were killed in their concrete elementary school by the fastest winds ever recorded, 313 miles per hour. The neighborhood was gone. People were rebuilding. I questioned why building permits were issued and yet nobody was using the connectors to reconstruct. The superintendent of the building department answered with frustration, knowing that it’s a code requirement, that “most people can’t afford the cost of the connectors.” Nine years later, I saw an article about the state of Oklahoma now strictly enforcing connector requirements.
You don’t have to walk away from your home. The base and top of the wall studs, the roof rafter connections and the corner hold-downs can be retrofitted, which will give you additional wind resistance of approximately 30 mph, and as a nationally certified damage assessor, I have seen firsthand that the right connectors save property and lives. Good luck!
2024
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes,
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Law school bonds formed decades ago are still strong
Few possessions in life are more valuable than lasting friendships. I’ve been more than blessed with friendships that began almost 60 years ago, when I was a student at Notre Dame Law School, and remain strong all these decades later. That was clear when we got together again at Notre Dame last week. I entered Notre Dame in 1965. From my home in Queens to the campus in South Bend, Indiana, was about 800 miles by car. In life experience, the distance was light years. I had no clue what to expect. My life up to then had been almost entirely confined to Queens, where I grew up; Brooklyn, where I went to high school and college; and Manhattan, where I was born, and where, during my last two years of college, I worked loading and unloading trucks and freight cars at the Railway Express Terminal on 10th Avenue. My out-of-state ventures had been limited to New Jersey: a two-week summer rental when I was 9, a handful of one-day visits to relatives and two nights at Palisades Amusement Park. In
New York, I took the ferry once to Staten Island, made the occasional trip to Jones Beach and journeyed to the Bronx for a handful of Yankees games and once to watch the football Giants practice at Fordham. I had never eaten in an actual restaurant, my dining experience limited to White Castle and pizza joints.
The Notre Dame campus was as impressive as advertised, with its famed Golden Dome glistening in the Indiana sun and more trees and manicured grass than I’d seen anywhere except Central Park. The law school was a three-story Gothic structure that radiated seriousness of purpose. I opted to live in Fisher Hall, the graduate student dorm, rather than an off-campus apartment mainly for convenience: It was a two-minute walk from the law school and next door to the dining hall.
had gone away to college, and I had no idea what dorm life was like.
C atching up with four longtime, far-flung friends from Notre Dame.
We were all willing to work together and help one another out — very different from the cutthroat competition at many law schools. That was a great defense against the dean of the law school, who took pride in the number of first-year students who flunked out or bailed out. His welcoming greeting to us had set the tone: “Look at the man on your left and the man on your right. Before long, one of you won’t be here. And damned be he who first cries, ‘Enough, enough!’”
Fortunately, the six of us survived the dean’s first-semester bloodletting, with Ward and Weiss doing exceptionally well and the rest of us doing well enough.
Rosemary, who was a student at neighboring St. Mary’s, during my first semester, and her becoming an integral part of our group. We got married at the start of my final semester before graduation.
After graduation, everyone did well: Manning in Chicago, Ward in Maine, Curtin in New Jersey, Weiss in St. Louis and Bonenberger in West Virginia. Though we were many miles apart, we stayed in close contact over the years, including at five-year class reunions, even holding weekly Zoom meetings during Covid.
Then, last summer, Manning, who was in many ways our magnet, died, and we decided to have our own minireunion. So last week we were together again in South Bend.
Most important, the law students living around me in Fisher Hall were great guys. Dick Manning, Tom Curtin, Tom Ward, Charlie Weiss and Lanny Bonenberger became lifelong friends. For the most part we all had similar upbringings, Catholic school-educated. Every one of us except Ward, whose father was a doctor, was the first in our family to go to college. And every one of the others
Why
For the past year, politicians and political commentators have described the upcoming election as the most consequential in American history. To be realistic, all elections have consequences, but there is no doubt that this one will have a dramatic impact on my family, and countless others, for years to come. With less than two weeks to go until Nov. 5, I am weary from the back-and-forth discussions I have had with family members, friends, neighbors, and political allies and adversaries. Happily, all of those talks have been cordial, and it has been worthwhile to listen to all opinions. These exchanges have better prepared me to explain why I will vote for Kamala Harris for president. Before explaining the basis for my vote, I need to rebut some of the arguments that I have heard from supporters of Donald Trump. Some have made the claim that Harris is “anti-Israel.”
Sometime in the spring of our first year, there was a climactic power struggle between the dean and the Rev. Theodore Hesburgh, president of the university, over the starting date for the law school in the fall. Their grand compromise was to give the dean his starting date, but to throw the law students off campus. It was my first experience as collateral damage! But the six of us found a house to rent in South Bend, and our friendships grew stronger than ever. Adding to all this was my meeting
There were changes. Fisher Hall and the house we rented have been demolished. The law school building is many times larger than it was. But among us, nothing had changed. We walked the campus, reliving good memories, retelling old stories, talking about our children and grandchildren. We were thankful for our bonds of friendship, which had been forged in another century and have grown only stronger over seven decades. A great gift.
Go, Irish!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
I’m voting for Kamala Harris
They point to the fact that then-President Trump moved the American embassy to Jerusalem, but they have not offered any proof that as a candidate, Harris has failed to support Israel. She has shown her unhappiness with its prime minister, but Benjamin Netanyahu is not Israel.
itrust her, and believe she is the best choice for challenges both at home and abroad.
Three months into the election madness, some people tell me they “don’t know enough about Kamala.” I view that as an excuse not to vote for a woman. My response to them is, “Where does Trump stand on abortion, child care tax cuts, more housing opportunities for people of modest means and tax breaks for middleincome families?”
I frequently hear people describe the vice president as “too liberal.” They reference her former support for Medicare for All and her past opposition to fracking. Harris has modified her positions on a number of issues, as has Trump’s vice presidential nominee, J.D. Vance, who is now in lockstep with Trump — after once calling him a “Hitler.”
I choose Harris over Trump for a
number of reasons. I trust her, and believe that she will be an honest president. I don’t believe that she will make private deals with campaign donors, or craft laws that will favor a handful of wealthy donors like Elon Musk. Above all, she won’t lie, lie and lie some more at every opportunity.
Thanks to President Biden’s hard work, America has the respect of world leaders once again. NATO is once more a united force in Europe, and the only firewall we have against Russia and Vladimir Putin. Harris will be a strong supporter of NATO and Ukraine. That will make our country safer. She will uphold our alliances with Asian nations and oppose China’s efforts to harm Taiwan.
Harris will appoint qualified people to major positions in her cabinet, and has pledged to seek bipartisan advice on key issues. There are countless thought leaders in America who would gladly give their time to the government if they thought their views would be respected. Above all, she will not sell out the nation to domestic or foreign
interests.
Harris will protect a woman’s right to choose. She has pledged to reinstate Roe v. Wade, and will appoint judges to the Supreme Court who will protect women’s rights. She will appoint an attorney general who will follow the Constitution, and be the people’s lawyer and not the president’s lap dog.
Harris will maintain our support for Israel. She has seen the powerful support that Biden has provided, including his latest pledge to give Israel guided missiles and U.S. military support to back them up. She will honor those commitments.
Rather than recite the reasons why I do not support Trump, I’ll defer to America’s top generals, who have called him dangerous and unfit to be commander in chief. To add to their opposition, I could further quote all of Trump’s former cabinet members who oppose his re-election.
Enough said.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
as we approach a pivotal election that portends high political drama, there’s never been a better time to stress the importance of voting. Every vote counts, and participation is more than a right — it’s a crucial responsibility that shapes this nation’s democracy.
This is not about whom to vote for. It’s about making the most of the privilege of voting.
Early voting is now underway in parts of the country, and in the state of Georgia, the turnout has already made headlines. On the first day of early voting, more than 300,000 Georgians cast their ballots — more than double the number who voted that day in 2020.
That could signal the beginning of another record turnout for the presidential election. Four years ago, both eventual President Joe Biden and the incumbent, Donald Trump, garnered the most votes ever in a presidential election. Biden won with some 81 million.
The heightened enthusiasm, to put it most politely, for next month’s election underscores why every eligible voter should make his or her voice heard.
This year, Election Day falls on Nov. 5, but early voting provides flexibility for those who may not be able to vote on that day. In New York, early voting gets under way this Saturday and ends on Nov. 3.
Early voting gives voters the chance to skip the long lines and cast their ballots at a time and place that is convenient for them. It’s a safeguard against last-minute emergencies or unforeseen obstacles that might occur on Election Day.
The surge in early voting is a promising sign for democracy, but it also sends a larger message about civic engagement in today’s highly charged political climate. Voting is one of the most direct ways individuals can influence the policies that shape their lives.
Whether the issues voters are focused on are health care, education, the economy, social justice or abortion access, the winning candidates, and measures on the
New York state elections are all about the major parties
To the Editor:
As New York voters prepare for the Nov. 5 elections, it is apparent that candidate choices are limited now more than ever. The Herald Roundtable articles, for example, are limited to coverage of Democratic and Republican candidates. The anti-democratic impact of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s
Early voting locations
■ Oyster Bay Ice Rink 1001 Stewart Ave., Bethpage, NY 11714
■ Elmont Public Library 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont, NY 11003
■ Floral Park Recreation Center 124 Stewart Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001
■ Freeport Recreation Center 130 East Merrick Rd., Freeport, NY 11520
■ St. Paul’s Recreation Center 295 Stewart Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
■ Glen Cove City Hall 9 Glen St., Glen Cove, NY 11542
■ Great Neck House 14 Arrandale Ave., Great Neck NY 11023
■ Hempstead Rec. Center/Kennedy Park 335 Greenwich St., Hempstead, NY 11550
■ Hofstra University 1000 Fulton Ave., Hempstead, NY 11549
■ Hicksville Levittown Hall 201 Levittown Pkwy., Hicksville NY 11801
■ South Shore Jewish Center 191 Long Beach Rd., Island Park, NY 11558
■ Lawrence Country Club 101 Causeway, Lawrence, NY 11559
■ Long Beach City Hall 1 West Chester St., Long Beach, NY 11561
■ Massapequa Town Hall South 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa, NY 11758
■ Temple Beth Am 2377 Merrick Ave., Merrick NY 11566
■ Nassau County Board of Elections 240 Old Country Rd., Mineola NY 11501
■ Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park, NY 11040
■ Plainview Mid-Island Y JCC 45 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview, NY 11803
■ Port Washington Library 1 Library Dr., Port Washington, NY 11050
■ Rockville Centre Recreation Center 111 N. Oceanside Rd., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
■ Gayle Community Center 53 Orchard St., Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
■ Syosset Public Library 225 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Syosset NY 11791
■ Valley Stream Presbyterian Church 130 S. Central Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580
■ St. Francis De Chantal Church 1309 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh, NY 11793
■ West Hempstead Public Library 500 Hempstead Ave., West Hempstead NY 11552
■ Yes We Can Community Center 141 Garden St., Westbury, NY 11590
■ Williston Park American Legion 730 Willis Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596
ballot, will help determine the future of those issues. By casting your vote, you become part of the collective decisionmaking process that steers the direction of the country.
For those who feel disillusioned or disengaged, it’s important to remember that democracy works best when it’s fully inclusive. Every election offers the opportunity to hold public officials accountable, to approve or reject ballot measures, and to influence the future of local, state and national policies.
When large numbers of people opt out of the process, fewer voices shape the policies that affect everyone. Voting is a way to speak up, even when the system feels
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electoral “reforms” has become abundantly clear with this year’s elections in our state. Having made it virtually impossible for independent third-party candidates to appear on the ballot, drastically changing longstanding ballot access laws and regulations in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, this fall we find ourselves with only Democrats and Republicans listed on our ballots. In a manner similar to what Republicans have done elsewhere, New York Democrats have suppressed the vote and stifled
imperfect or frustrating. By casting your vote — whether early or on Election Day— you are exercising a power that should never be taken for granted. “My vote doesn’t matter” is simply not the case. So if you can’t vote on a busy Tuesday, Nov. 5, make a plan to do so between now and the Sunday before Election Day. Or take advantage of the time you still have to register to vote and request an absentee ballot. Be part of the conversation, have a say in the issues that matter to you, and help ensure a future that reflects the will of all Americans.
Voting isn’t just a privilege; it’s a duty that upholds the foundation of our democracy. Your voice matters. Let it be heard.
meaningful political debate on the issues that face us all. We urge Gov. Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature to reverse these draconian changes to our election law as soon as possible. New Yorkers deserve more voter choice, more democracy.
Thanks to the Cuomo “reforms,” New York is the only state to have just two candidates for president appearing on the ballot. This has happened in only one other state in the past 40 years, Oklahoma. Many voters now feel faced with two unsatisfactory
Hochul’s new law gives students a seat at the table
For over a century, school boards have been crucial in shaping education across the country, and particularly on Long Island. Their governance originated in the early 1800s, according to the New York State School Boards Association, when New York state established school districts and allowed citizens to elect boards of education that were responsible for levying taxes. By the mid19th century, these local bodies aimed to give citizens a direct voice in the education system. In the early 20th century, educator Jesse H. Newlon advocated for a separation of roles, positioning school boards as legislative entities and superintendents as executives, according to the association. Over time, school boards have included parents and community leaders focused on school success.
aOne group, however, was often excluded from this process: the students themselves. Despite being directly affected by board members’ decisions, students rarely had the chance to influence them. Recently, the idea of including a student member on school boards gained traction in New York. Districts recognized that students could offer invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities in their schools.
This topic resonates deeply with me due to my personal experience in high school, because I attended a school that truly valued student voices. I cherish my time as student government president, where I collaborated closely with the school administration to implement meaningful improvements in our district. This role not only boosted my confidence, but also provided me with valuable insights into the complexities of school governance. It served as a catalyst for my later pursuits in public service, igniting a passion for advocacy
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choices: a candidate who is engaged in sowing pernicious and deadly seeds of ethnic and ideological conflict, and another who supports wars and continuing our nation’s complicity in an ongoing genocide.
The Green Party urges all progressive voters to write in “Jill Stein” in this year’s election. Don’t stay home, and don’t waste your vote!
JIm BROWN Chair, Green Party of Nassau County Island Park
Kremer summed up Trump, but there’s more
To the Editor:
In his Oct. 10-16 column, “A historic election for all the wrong reasons,” Jerry Kremer presents several compelling reasons to reject Donald Trump’s “desperate campaign” for president.
But voters should consider other factors as well. Conservatives, in particular, ought to ask whether Trump adheres to three principles they surely hold dear: family values, law and order, and patriotism. Do Republican parents really want their children to view this potential president as a role model?
and leadership.
Even though I wasn’t an official school board member, I understood the importance of having a voice in decision-making processes. The experience solidified my belief in the power of student involvement and the positive impact it can have on shaping educational policies and fostering a sense of community.
nyone who’s attended high school for at least a year can sit on a school board.
Historically, student board members were required to be seniors, limiting representation from younger students with fresh perspectives. A law recently signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul changes this requirement, allowing any student who has attended high school for at least a year to serve on a board. This broadens the potential for diverse representation, and emphasizes that all students have valuable contributions to make. Additionally, the law removes the requirement that a student member seat be authorized by popular vote. While student members cannot vote on decisions, they can still voice concerns, ensuring
that their perspectives are heard starting as early as age 14 or 15.
This is a significant win for New York state education and Long Island. The new law encourages innovative thinking in shaping our educational system, and fosters leadership and civic engagement from an early age. By involving students in discussions about grading policies, curriculum changes, disciplinary actions and mental health concerns, we empower them to influence aspects of school life that directly affect them.
Overall, this is a fantastic opportunity for young voices in our community to be heard and valued. As an assemblywoman who proudly supported this transformative bill, I am excited about its future positive impact on our schools and communities. The law is a major step in empowering students, and I hope it inspires future policies that further enhance their role in shaping their educational experiences and nurturing the next generation of leaders. I look forward to seeing the contributions from these young board members.
Taylor Darling represents the 18th Assembly District.
Framework by Tim Baker
Should kids seek to emulate a philanderer and a vulgarian incapable of telling the truth?
How do those professing to “back the blue” square that stance with support for a convicted felon? Is someone charged with racketeering and 51 other criminal offenses a credible champion of the rule of law?
Are red-white-and-blue all-Americans OK with a candidate who orchestrated the attempted overthrow of the country’s constitutional order? Does denigrating members of the U.S. armed forces demonstrate love of country?
Trump defiles all three of the values most Americans regard as sacrosanct.
This is not to say that Kamala Harris is without personal flaws of her own. She’s imperfect, both as a candidate and a human being. Besides, voters should be assessing a candidate’s policy positions, not only his or her personal behavior. And Harris’s record and her proposals can be fairly criticized from a conservative perspective.
But character does matter. And on that score, Donald Trump is utterly unqualified to hold the nation’s highest office.
KEvIN J. KELLEY Atlantic Beach
Election Letters to the Editor policy
In the interest of fairness and transparency during the election season, we will not publish letters in the Oct. 31-Nov. 6 issue, the final one before Election Day, that criticize a candidate or a specific issue. This is to ensure that no last-minute submissions are published without sufficient opportunity for rebuttal. Readers are encouraged to send letters to execeditor@liherald.com.
taylor darling
A crisp, patriotic day in Eisenhower Park - East Meadow
