The Key of Hope South African Choir brought their inspiring vocal talents to the Malverne school district last month. The district was treated to a vibrant mix of traditional holiday songs, melodies in Zulu, and popular hits from artists such as U2 and Foreigner. The choir from Durban, South Africa performed at the Maurice W. Downing Primary School, Davison Avenue Intermediate School and Malverne High School on stage at the Malverne Performing Arts Center in the high school.
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Lakeview library looks ahead to 2025
By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com
The Lakeview Public Library in Rockville Centre, under the guidance of its director, Camina Raphaël-Lubin, is eagerly ushering in 2025 by offering new services and programs for people of all ages.
Raphaël-Lubin, 43, a Westbury resident, has been with the library for three years, helping it to reopen safely in 2021 after the Covid-19 pandemic.
W“We are really sensitive to folks that have different abilities and disabilities, so we want to make sure we are very inclusive to them and have furniture that meets everyone’s needs,” she said.
e’re a community center in many aspects.
CAMiNA R APHAël-lUBiN Director, Lakeview Public Library
“It’s been a great experience,” she said. “The folks in Lakeview love their library. They love coming here, they love seeing the new and exciting things that we have to offer.”
Over the course of 2025, the library will provide dozens of educational programs, as well as begin to undergo renovations. Raphaël-Lubin said she is seeking a $20,000 county grant to fund new, colorful and adjustable furniture to make the building more comfortable.
The library’s third floor is being renovated to accommodate new rooms and services, including a space for podcasting. Raphaël-Lubin added that she wants to prioritize “staying with the times” and provide what the library’s patrons are interested in.
The library’s mission has been to create a safe environment that offers useful and enjoyable services, from meeting rooms to fitness classes.
“Public libraries have been a space where you go in, you get your books, and then you leave, right?” Raphaël-Lubin said. “That’s not what public libraries are anymore. We’re a community center in many aspects.”
Her desire to see libraries
Continued on page 4
Photos courtesy Malverne school district
Hablamos Español
Drones: What’s Nassau doing for security
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Following reports that a large number of mysterious drones have been seen flying over parts of New Jersey and the East Coast, Nassau County officials showcased the county’s drone detection technology, that allows law enforcement to track drones anywhere within the county.
County Executive Bruce Blakeman, at a news conference held at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence in Garden City on Dec. 19, told reporters that the county’s drone detection capabilities are “ahead of the curve.”
“I have been to other police departments throughout the United States to take a look at their intelligence and drone detection,” Blakeman said. “I can tell you that Nassau County is state-ofthe art. We’re on the cutting edge of drone detection.”
Reports of drones
According to a report by NBC, more than 5,000 drone sightings have been reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, mostly in New Jersey, although drones have been seen in New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Ohio.
The Federal Aviation Administration banned drone flights in 22 areas of New
Jersey, according to a report by AP News.
Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said since Nov. 1, Nassau County has identified over 1,800 drone flights and 798 pilots.
What can Nassau County do?
Nassau County has the ability to track and identify drones that are in the county’s airspace, but is not allowed to mitigate their flying — only the federal government has that authority, Blakeman said.
“There’s detection and there’s mitigation,” he explained. “The mitigation is two types: One is the technology to jam it and have it return to its base, and the other one is to destroy it.”
Blakeman said they’d like the federal government to allow the police department to do a few things.
“We’d like the technology so we don’t have to shoot it down, because that creates a whole other set of problems,” Blakeman said. “But the technology is there to jam it and send it back to its home base, and we want that. We also want federal legislation that would allow us to issue a federal summons in the event that someone was violating the law.”
Blakeman said the county understands that drone flying is a hobby, and there are proper places where one can fly a drone.
“We have no problem with that,” he
added. “But when it gets out of hand, like we’ve seen in New Jersey, or if it’s potential form of some kind of organized crime gang or a foreign nation, we have a responsibility to be on top of that.”
Are there credible threats?
The least worrisome threat, Blakeman said, is an invasion of privacy.
“Drones have been known to go into people’s backyards,” he said, “and hover over windows in their homes.”
Drones can pose threats to aircraft by interfering with planes, or they could crash into structures, causing property damage. Large drones, Blakeman said, have the ability to carry material, either biological, chemical or explosive, which is a major concern.
The data collected by the county, Ryder said, indicates that people flying drones are likely testing the system.
“It indicates that we’ve got 798 knuckleheads that keep putting their drones up at night, just to test the system,” he said.
“We’ve seen this triple in size and reporting. What’s going to happen in Nassau County — we’re going to ask you to take the drone down.”
Nassau County’s technology
In order to fly a drone in restricted airspace, Ryder said one needs to be a licensed drone pilot. Nassau County has 27 pilots, he said, that have gone to school and learned how to fly drones. The coun-
ty also has 30 snipers that can subdue threats — like a drone — from long distances, he said.
Ryder and Blakeman showed reporters the technology from behind-thescenes — massive screens that can pinpoint where drones are flying, and where they’re being flown from. If an unknown drone is detected, patrol cars can go to the location and ask for it to come down.
The county does not have the ability to take down a drone itself, but can make an arrest if someone is refusing to stop flying their drone.
“Right now, we need help from the federal government, especially because we’re a large department,” Blakeman said.
•
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Jordan Vallone/Herald Different types of drones were on display outside of the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence.
New era at county’s medical center
Megan Ryan, Dr. Grace Ting and Shannon Costello enter leadership roles
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Nassau University Medical Center will begin 2025 with women holding its three top leadership positions. The East Meadow-based hospital’s board of directors appointed Megan Ryan as president and chief executive, Dr. Grace Ting as chief medical officer and Shannon Costello as chief nursing officer during its Dec. 5 meeting. All three previously served in these roles as interims and have extensive experience at NUMC.
In a December interview with the Herald, they discussed their long-standing connections to the hospital, their career journeys at NUMC, and their visions for the facility as they formally step into their new roles.
Their backgrounds
Ryan, an accomplished attorney in the private sector who is admitted to the New York State Bar Association and the U.S. Supreme Court Association, began her career in health care as the chief compliance officer for the Nassau Queens Performing Provider System, before becoming general counsel at NUMC seven years ago.
Before working at NUMC, Ryan served as an inhouse corporate counsel for Liberty Mutual Insurance Company. She was named interim president and chief executive in January of 2024, a position she helped the hospital flourish in, until her appointment in December. Ryan will continue serving as general counsel.
Ting began her career at NUMC as an attending physician in the hospital’s emergency department, later becoming one of the associate directors for operations in the emergency department. Having served on various committees, Ting was named NUMC’s interim chief medical officer in 2022.
Costello, both an executive vice president and the chief nursing officer, started her professional career as a critical care nurse at NUMC in 2006. Through that position, she discovered a passion for teaching and education, she said, which led to her role as a critical care nurse educator in 2018, in which she oversaw multiple units at the hospital including the intensive care unit, special procedures unit and burn unit, among many others. Costello was named NUMC’s deputy nursing officer in January of last year and promoted to the interim chief nursing officer in May.
What working
at NUMC has meant to them
Before she was a registered nurse, Costello said she completed her clinical rotations while still in nursing school at NUMC.
“This is where I learned to love nursing,” she said, “and this is where I learned about the mission of the hospital and the values here. I got to experience the work first hand and all the wonderful people that work here. And that’s what led me, after graduation, to seek an opportunity here.”
NUMC is Nassau County’s only public hospital, which serves as a safety net for medical care, providing services for the uninsured and vulnerable patients. The hospital provides care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.
“I was lucky enough to be one of the first student groups, first out of school, that they allowed to work in critical care,” Costello said. “And I had a wonderful experience in terms of being educated and being taught in that very specialized area of nursing.”
NUMC is a teaching hospital, Costello said, but it also provides services that you won’t see in other facilities. From a water birthing suites in the hospital’s maternity ward, to being a regional leader in hyperbaric medicine, Costello said NUMC is a vital institution.
“What drew me here was the mission of the hospital,” Ting said, “in serving our patients, the people that can’t afford to pay, as a doctor in the emergency department. That is a really integral part of what we do.”
There’s a camaraderie among NUMC’s staff, Ting added. “We work really heard and we develop relationships,” she said. “You go home, and the next day you come in and you’re happy, and I was happy to come in.”
The appointments come at a crucial time for NUMC, which has faced years of financial instability and management challenges. Under Ryan’s interim leadership over the past year, the hospital has made significant strides in strengthening both its financial position and quality of care. Over the last five years, the hospital has not received hundreds of millions of dollars in state funding that it needs to survive.
“Our reputation hasn’t been very good and it’s unfair,” Ting said. “We’re trying to change the culture — change our reputation. I think we’re doing that. Our scores are better, our quality is better. We have real leadership, and yet we’re having so much trouble receiving funding from the state.”
Ryan said she took a “leap of faith” entering health care, but said her role really began to change at NUMC after the coronavirus pandemic. “I wasn’t the lawyer that was writing contracts or reviewing things or telling people no,” she said. “I was you know, doing the fundraising, and then I was going to all the different floors to see what they needed. I will be the first to say I’m not clinical — I leave the clinical stuff to the clinicians — but it was nice to work together.”
Her leadership role at NUMC has really cemented the belief that the hospital’s role in Nassau County is vital.
“I get frustrated when people are like ‘it’s a poor person’s hospital,’” she said. “As a Catholic, I love our mission. We treat everyone, regardless of their ability to pay — it is a saintly thing to do. It is a moral thing to do.”
The hospital’s administration, she said, is poised to help NUMC succeed.
“These are all people that have their hearts in this place,” Ryan said, “and they’re experts in their field.
NUMC’s future
Ryan said her goals have always been clear: She wants to work with the state as a partner in health care. For the first time in years, NUMC’s staff rallied in Albany last March with local legislators, advocating for the funding it needs to thrive. The hospital employees 3,600 employees, Ryan said, and she feels both a commitment to them and the broader Long Island community. Look-
At a glance: NUMC leadership
Megan Ryan
■ Named president and chief executive
■ First woman to lead Nassau Health Care Corporation
■ Served for nearly a decade as general counsel and interim president and chief executive since January
Dr. Grace Ting
■ Veteran NUMC physician named chief medical officer
■ Previously served in the role on interim basis
Shannon Costello
■ Appointed chief nursing officer
■ Experienced nurse leader who had been serving in position on an interim basis
ing ahead, hospital departments are working on sustainability plans, Ryan said, so the administration at NUMC can best assess needs across the board and roll out plans to help every part of the hospital succeed.
NUMC has named new department heads in different health care sectors, is getting its finances in order with its chief financial executive, Perry Sham, and working on increasing its visibility and outreach in the communities it serves.
“I think it’s still going to be a year of transition and growth,” Ryan said of 2025. “There is a lot of work to be done.”
“The team that has been assembly by Megan over this last year — everyone is invested,” Costello said. “Everyone is dedicated to this facility and to the mission of the hospital. It’s all of us working together, and we all have the same goals in mind.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Nassau University Medical Center is kicking off the New Year with three women holding top leadership positions. From left, Shannon Costello, the chief nursing officer, Dr. Grace Ting, the chief medical officer, and Megan Ryan, the president and chief executive, were appointed to their positions at a Dec. 5 board meeting.
Black History Month program returning
provide public programming stems from the way she was raised. Her mother took her and her siblings to public libraries throughout their childhood, learning to read and participating in every program they could, in addition to taking out books.
“I’ve always loved libraries,” Raphaël-Lubin said. “I’ve been in the library world for over 20 years, but it was not something that I thought I was going to do.”
Raphaël-Lubin’s professional involvement with libraries began at age 16 when she was hired as a page for the New York Public Library, where she organized and put books on shelves. She began to work in Epiphany Library in Gramercy Park in 1997 as a children’s librarian, became a supervisor at the West Valley Memorial Public Library in 2007, and earned a Master’s degree in library science in 2008.
Raphaël-Lubin brought her wealth of experience to Lakeview, supporting new and pre-existing programs, including the library’s annual celebration of Black History Month. The library partners with local law enforcement and legislators for a series of community events throughout February, focusing on the achievements of African Americans throughout the country’s history.
“We make sure that you know the folks know their history, and they know
we’re there to safeguard it,” she said.
Ka’re Atkins, a vice president on the library’s board of directors, said that during Covid-19, the board needed to find a suitable director to help Lakeview recover from the pandemic.
“We were looking for not only just a director, but someone that could tell the
Future
The New Corporate Transparency Act
The Corporate Transparency Act came into being this year as part of the AntiMoney Laundering Act. This act is designed to combat terrorism, tax fraud and moneylaundering. Under the act, corporations and LLC’s are required to report who their “beneficial owners” are in a Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOI report) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement network (FinCEN) on an annual basis. The BOI report is due by January 13, 2025 for entities formed before 2024 and within 90 days of formation or registration for entities formed in 2024. For entities formed after 2025, the BOI report is required to be filed within 30 days.
The BOI report must contain the following information:
1. The entities’ full name (and any alternative names which it is doing business under)
2. Address
3. Where it was formed or registered
4. Its tax id number (EIN)
The BOI report must include the following information for each “beneficial owner” — defined as any individual who has “substantial control” over the entity or owns or controls at least 25%. “Substantial control” means serving as a senior officer, having authority to remove a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors, or in charge of or having substantial interest over major corporate decisions. The trustee of a trust may be a “beneficial owner” if the trust owns an interest in the entity.
The “beneficial owner” must report:
1. Full legal name
2. Date of birth
3. Home or business address
4. Identifying number from passport or driver’s license along with scanned copy of the document.
For help in reporting, search fincen.gov, call the helpline at 800-949-2732, or google “help with fincen reporting” to locate online services that will assist with the application for a fee.
100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington
community that the library is a safe place to come for resources,” Atkins, a board member for six years, said. “Camina took a good, proactive way of getting foot traffic in by modifying our programs, and when the time was right, by adding more programs.”
Over the past few years, RaphaëlLubin has proactively reached out to local fire departments, churches and other organizations to create new events. One of the most popular additions is Open Mic Night, where attendees can recite poetry, rap, sing, or perform stand-up comedy.
The event is popular among students, giving them an opportunity to practice public speaking and help build up their courage — which may increase their success in college and beyond, Atkins said.
“Our mission is not only just to be a building with books, but also a platform where (people) can come and express themselves and just feel comfortable,” he added.
In addition, the Lakeview Public Library is eagerly anticipating its eighth annual Black History Month cel-
■ Dancing and fitness
■ Coding and drone piloting
■ Knitting and crocheting ■ Defensive driving ■ Business mentorship ■ Tax advice
ebration, scheduled for the second week of February, Atkins said.
Lynn Singleton, member of the local law enforcement education group Nassau County Guardians and co-founder of the women’s needs nonprofit Simply Sistahs, helps Raphaël-Lubin plan for Black History Month every year.
“She’s very easy going,” Singleton said of Raphaël-Lubin. “She organizes and makes sure all the parts are done and puts it together, and we have a fabulous program that is well attended.
“Everything that we have is educational — you learn something, whether it’s from the storytelling or the music,” Singleton added. “Everything is geared around the celebration of Black History Month. It is a learning tool for all ages.”
The event brings together people from local organizations across multiple disciplines and from other towns.
“We have a variety of talent,” Singleton said. “We’ve had dancers in the past. We’ve had the Uniondale Choir. We’ve had Voices of Virtue. We’ve had live storytelling. We’ve had the Malverne band come — it changes from year to year.”
The Nassau County Guardians recently honored Raphaël-Lubin with the 2024 Organizational Award for her efforts to benefit the public.
“It’s important to get the community together,” Singleton said. “She’s a pleasure to work with, and she’s here for the community.”
To learn more about Lakeview’s programs and upcoming events, visit LakeviewLibrary.org.
■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/malverne or www.liherald.com/westhempstead
■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: mal-wheditor@liherald.com
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
Courtesy Camina Raphaël-Lubin
Christine dixon, left, and Camina raphaël-Lubin during Black History month. dixon portrayed Harriet tubman in a one-person play, recounting the historical figure’s journey to liberate slaves.
NCC students, faculty protest course cuts
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Students and faculty at Nassau Community College are voicing their frustration over the lack of course offerings and departmental cuts.
Faculty packed the college’s multipurpose room to hear colleagues and students voice their concerns at the annual winter luncheon on Dec. 17.
The event was hosted by the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers, a local union affiliated with New York State United Teachers. Frustrations over course cuts and departmental reductions were highlighted.
According to NCCFT president Faren Siminoff, the campus is not meeting its mission, which is to offer a “robust offering of courses” scheduled throughout the day for students.
Administrators have doubled since last year, she said, but the college has eliminated 21 departments, cut funding to student services and clubs, all while limiting its schedule of classes.
Jerry Kornbluth, the vice president for Community and Government Relations at Nassau Community College, said in a statement that the college aims to preserve and expand course offerings while retaining tenured professors despite a nationwide decline in college enrollment. He noted that the college has reduced its budget deficit from $14.8
million to $4.8 million, while boosting enrollment by 8% over the past year.
Department mergers, he said, were carefully planned in alignment with union agreements to improve efficiency.
In addition, Kornbluth stated that the theater and dance department will not be eliminated, and will continue to offer majors and seasonal productions, ensuring its ongoing presence on campus.
“Our priority remains preserving and enhancing the affordable, high-quality education that Nassau Community College is known for,” Kornbluth said in a statement. “We look forward to continuing to be a place where students thrive, whether they are entering the workforce or transferring to a four-year institution.”
Siminoff claims that students have found it difficult to find courses that fit their busy schedule, especially for those who work. The college, she said, would reportedly cancel a course offering early, sometimes a week or two after registration opens, even though students register weeks later.
Joining students and staff were County Legislators Thomas McKevitt and Siela Bynoe, who spoke of the importance that community colleges provide for middle-class students. Bynoe was elected to state senate in November.
McKevitt said he wished people could see the college’s potential as a place where students, who might not be able
to afford tuition for private institutions, can succeed and be tomorrow’s leaders.
“The reality is that the private institutions have priced the middle class out of higher education,” McKevitt said, “which is why Nassau Community College is more important than it has ever been before.”
Richard Ginsburg, chairman of the theater and dance department at NCC, claimed administration planned to “deactivate” the program. He instructed and guided students for over 40 years throughout the department’s 61 years, adding that the arts are essential to education, and the state owes it to itself to sustain and encourage such programs.
“We had survived and grew through a deadly pandemic,” Ginsburg said, “but we will not survive through this administration, as next fall, the theater department will go from historically nine, fulltime teaching faculty to zero.”
Simran Gil, an international student and president of the Filipino Cultural Society, said at the beginning of this semester, her club allegedly received “zero dollars in funding” despite submitting all their paperwork on time.
Gil said her club addressed this issue to the Faculty Student Association and Student Government Association and eventually received $250, which Gil said was “far too little” to support the club’s activities, which was half of what they received in 2021, she added.
Charles Shaw/Herald
Richard Ginsburg, NCC theater and dance department chair spoke at a luncheon held by the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers.
Bynoe, a NCC graduate, worked fulltime while attending courses at night. She described her experience as a foundation that led her to a master’s in public administration at Long Island University and wants the college to be sustainable for current students and generations to come.
“We want to make sure that their children and their children’s children have an opportunity to have an affordable, quality education,” Bynoe said.
ALLIE TWIBLE
East Meadow Senior Basketball
AFTER HELPING LEAD the Jets to a historic 2023-24 season that ended in the state semifinals, Twible got her senior campaign off to a roaring start by reaching the 1,000-career point milestone Dec. 10. She was named First Team All-Long Island as a junior and was a major part in East Meadow’s first-ever Nassau County and L.I. championship teams. Twible has averaged close to 20 points per game over the past two seasons.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Jan. 2
Wrestling: Plainedge at MacArthur 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Manhasset 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 3
Boys Basketball: Friends Aca. at Long Beach 12 p.m.
Wrestling: Kennedy at Hewlett 4 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Farmingdale at West Hemp 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Lawrence at North Shore 6 p.m.
Wrestling: Lynbrook at Clarke 6 p.m.
Wrestling: East Meadow at Long Beach 6 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Freeport at Seaford 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Oceanside 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Oceanside at South Side 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4
Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook 10 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Division 11 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Malverne at Mineola 11 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Plainedge at Clarke 12 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Jericho at Kennedy 1 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 6
Wrestling: North Shore at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Carey 5 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter 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.
West Hempstead off to 5-1 start
By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com
A couple of games into the season and it’s time for the West Hempstead boys’. basketball team to do a temperature check.
In the Rams’ Dec. 17 game against East Rockaway, a 58-42 win, senior Isaiah Blunt lead the pack with 27 points after scoring 22 in the first half.
“He’s athletic, he can score as well as anyone probably on Long Island but definitely in Nassau County,” head coach Eric Rubin said. “He provides a lot of scoring for us, he’s off to a good start.”
Blunt leads the team in rebounds per game and points per game at 8.8 and 23.8 respectively.
While the team opened 5-1, Rubin sees nothing but room for improvement.
“We still have a ways to go as far as I want our team to be playing, we have a lot of improvement to do, but so far, okay,” Rubin said.
The team only has four returners from last season’s Nassau and Long Island championship squad, so West Hempstead is riding out a steep learning curve, and part of it has to do with its physical size compared to last year’s squad.
“This year we’re kind of like the smallest team; they shoot well but last year we weren’t a great shooting team,” Rubin explained. “We’re smaller, we’re quicker and we’re better shooters this year but we definitely lack size, so some adjustment even for the returning players, just to play a different style.
Sophomore Jamir Houston is a player that came quick to Rubin’s mind when talking about younger players that have stood out to him recently.
“I had him last year, I really didn’t think he was going to play varsity this year, I thought he was going to be on JV again,” Rubin reasoned. “But he played with us in the summer league and was one of our best players in the summer league and it’s really carried over to the regular season.”
Part of the cohesive force to keep the team in motion is senior Evan Wilson, the lone captain and the starting shoot-
Evan
58-42, for their fifth win in six games.
ing guard for the second consecutive year. His dedication and commitment to helping those around him be their best selves is what separates him from others in his coach’s mind.
“He really works on his game so much, he’s there at six o’clock in the morning almost every day before school, all year round, working on his game,” he praised.
Wilson dropped a dozen points in the contest against East Rockaway.
The real reason why looking ahead, not getting lost in the now, is so important to Rubin, is because he always has
playoffs in his mind.
“My goal is to peak in February when playoffs start,” he said. “It worked last year in the end, we were successful in the playoffs, so I’m hoping for something similar.”
In the meantime, one step at a time: West Hempstead (3-0 in Conference VIII) has a tournament showcase and some tough competition over the holiday break, in hopes of some extra sharp iron sharpen them.
“We’re definitely about to go through a really tough stretch, but we’ll see where we’re at,” Rubin said.
Sue Grieco/Herald
Wilson, left, scored 12 points Dec. 17 as the Rams took down East Rockaway,
Perfect pediatric residency passing rate
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Nassau University Medical Center’s Pediatric Medical Residency Program achieved a 100 percent board passage rate in 2024, far surpassing the national average of 80–82 percent and Long Island’s average. This milestone underscores the strides NUMC, Long Island’s largest safety-net hospital, has made in medical education and pediatric care, the hospital system said in a Dec. 16 news release.
The residency program is one of the largest in New York state, with nearly 300 aspiring doctors across various disciplines. This accomplishment reflects the hospital’s dedication to excellence in training future medical professionals while enhancing patient care, finances, and hospital operations.
“NUMC has made significant strides to elevate our programs and the hospital as a whole,” Megan Ryan, president and chief executive of Nassau Health Care Corporation said. “Our investment in hands-on training opportunities has made our residency program among the best in the region, and this passage rate is reflective of that. Congratulations to the pediatric residents who will now be board-certified physicians caring for our youngest patients.”
Dr. Grace Ting, NUMC’s chief medical officer, attributed the success to the
Herald file
Nassau University Medical Center, above, in East Meadow announced on Dec. 16 that residents in the Pediatric Medical Residency Program achieved a 100 percent board passage rate in 2024.
collaborative efforts of the program.
“This outstanding passage rate is a testament to the dedication of our excellent resident physicians and our fantastic attending physicians and staff who train them,” Ting said. “Our residents have demonstrated remarkable determination and skill, and we are immensely proud to have played an important role in their journey to becoming exceptional pediatricians.”
Tranquility & Relaxation Awaits You At
NUMC’s Graduate Medical Education program is designed to prepare health care providers across a variety of fields with the tools necessary for their future medical career. The hospital boasts a fully accredited program that offers a well-rounded foundation through practice in a wide range of clinical experiences, featuring a diverse population, sophisticated technology and a faculty that maximizes the resident physician’s
Pediatric Residency Program
■ 100 percent board passage rate in 2024, surpassing the national average of 80 to 82 percent
■ One of the largest residency programs in New York, with nearly 300 residents across various disciplines
■ Fully Accredited Graduate Medical Education program offering comprehensive clinical experience, advanced technology, and a diverse patient population
■ Program focus includes hands-on training, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence in medical education and patient care
■ Key contributors: Resident physicians, attending physicians, and staff
skill and knowledge base.
For more information about NUMC’s residency and fellowship programs, visit NUMC.edu.
• Professional private rooms. No curtain dividers or half walls.
• Free Hot Stones with all services.
• Fluent English, Spanish, Italian and Chinese spoken. Gift Certificates Available
HERALD SCHOOLS
Student sing-along spreads holiday cheer
Students and teachers from West Hempstead Secondary School’s music program joined the school’s youngest learners for a festive singalong in the Chestnut Street School gymnasium five days before Christmas.
Dressed in cozy holiday pajamas, Chestnut Street students and staff exuberantly danced and sang to classic holiday tunes, filling the gym with holiday spirit.
The school’s principal, Lisa Minicozzi emceed the event, and visibly shared in the students’ joy dancing
alongside them.
Everyone was surprised when Superintendent Dan Rehman arrived dressed as Santa Claus. He spread his good cheer by greeting the children and wishing them a Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
The sing-along united students and staff from across the district in celebration in what was said to be a heartwarming display of community and holiday spirit.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Principal Lisa Minicozzi emceed the event and her and other teachers danced with their students.
Photos courtesy West Hempstead Union Free School District
Students and teachers from West Hempstead Secondary School’s music program visited Chestnut Street School for a festive holiday sing along.
West Hempstead school district Superintendent Dan Rehman played Santa Claus to greet the district’s youngest learners.
Students and teachers from West Hempstead Secondary School’s music program accompanied the festive sing-along.
Chestnut Street
Toy drive for children in need a success
Assemblyman Ed Ra said he is proud of the success during this year’s toy drive. Thanks to the generous support of local schools and libraries, Ra said, a 20-foot U-Haul truck was filled with toys and delivered to the John Theissen Children’s Foundation and NYU Langone Hospital. Ra said he hopes to spread joy to children in need during the holiday season.
“This toy drive is a shining example of the kindness and generosity that makes our community so special,” Ra said in a news release. “Seeing students, teachers, families and local organizations come together to bring smiles to children’s faces is heartwarming. Thanks to their incredible support, we were able to make this holiday season a little brighter for so many kids.”
Students and staff from Manor Oaks clockwise, Christina Sciarrotto, Jenna Rambissoon, Ava Chatoorang, Aria Fodera, Jason Levine, Principal Jane Ruthkowski, Assemblyman Ed Ra, Zachary Silver and Zafirah Akliah.
School districts that played a vital role in this year’s drive were Franklin Square, Garden City, Mineola, New Hyde Park and Carle Place.
Additionally, toy collection bins were set up at several local libraries, including Franklin Square, Williston Park, Shelter Rock and Hillside Public Library, ensuring residents across the district had convenient opportunities to contribute.
“I want to thank everyone who donated a toy, the schools and libraries that served as collection points and all the volunteers who helped make this effort such a success. Filling a 20-foot U-Haul this year is a remarkable achievement!” Ra said.
–Renee DeLorenzo
Photos courtesy Office of Assemblyman Ed Ra
Members of the Mineola Middle School student council Samuel Etwaroo, left, Colm Murray, Tyler Aholou, Leah Perro and Chloe Vega, who helped load up the donations onto the U-Haul truck.
Hot Wheels Monster Truck Live Show is back at Nassau Coliseum for another year of car-smashing, ramp jumping, wheel-revving action
By Danielle Schwab
Get ready, everyone. Gather up the kids and shake up those January doldrums when the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow party lights up Nassau Coliseum once again. Witness the raw power of epic machines when the iconic Hot Wheels toy vehicles transform into unstoppable monster trucks for the “Glow-N-Fire” competition.
“Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the action returns to Long Island, Jan. 20-21.
As the arena darkens for this glow-in-the-dark party, each truck revs up with its unique LED lights. And, in true “It’s Not The Same Without The Flame” fashion, pyrotechnic effects light up the arena, adding even more intensity to the action.
• Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 18-19; times vary
• Tickets start at $63.85 adults, $35. 15 children (also “Me + 3” family discount option); available at ticketmaster.com and hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com
• Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale
It’s an especially big day for one particular truck: The classic blue vintage-style pick-up Bigfoot turns 50. Everyone is invited to the birthday bash. Plus, have the chance to be celebrated alongside the iconic monster truck. Bigfoot would love to see everyone’s creativity — so fans are encouraged to bring homemade birthday cards to wish Bigfoot a happy birthday. And show off those homemade birthday signs at the show for a chance to win prizes during the bash.
“Bigfoot is known as the original monster truck because this monster truck is what started monster trucks in general,” says Caleb Janezich, Bigfoot’s driver since July.
Owner-operator Bob Chandler first began building Bigfoot in 1975, and a legend was born. The modified 1974 Ford F-250 started its career at local mud runs and truck and tractor pulls. It quickly launched a worldwide phenomenon and its legions of fans. Chandler continued to make improvements and modifications until it grew into the massive behemoth known and loved today by multiple generations of fans.
STEPPING OUT up for monster truck mayhem
“There are people that come up to us and the dad knows who Bigfoot is, and then maybe the kids are exposed to Bigfoot for the first time. Even the grandpas come up and they remember Bigfoot,” says Janezich, on Bigfoot’s popularity.
There’s surely no better way to commemorate the original monster truck than with incredible stunts performed by Bigfoot along with all his mechanical monster pals, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Boneshaker, and Gunkster.
Expect to see wheelies, donuts, and long jumps, along with a freestyle Motocross demonstration.
And of course, be prepared for plenty of good ol’ car crushing!
Also witness as the show unleashes its newest addition, Skelesauraus, a truck that takes the spine-chilling form of a giant skeleton head.
This is Janezich’s first time appearing at Nassau Coliseum, however he is no stranger to the Hot Wheels monster truck circuit. An avid collector of Hot Wheels since childhood, Janezich worked as a Bigfoot crewmember before taking up the driver’s seat.
“Bigfoot was always my favorite. I grew up around pickup trucks and four-wheel drives. My dad got me into it.” he says.
“It’s pretty humbling, and it’s really a dream come true. Honestly, they say, ‘if you do what you love, you never work a day in your life’ and that’s pretty much what I live by now.”
While the trucks may seem invincible, it take a dedicated team behind the scenes to keep them crushing to the max.
“The stuff that can be challenging is the unknown. You never know what these trucks are going to do sometimes, and the biggest challenge sometimes can just be just keeping them going and just making sure that we’re ready for the next show all the time, which we try to do very well,” Janezich adds.
Opportunities to go behind the action add to the spectacle. At the Pre-Show Party, held two-and-a-half hours prior to every performance, get up close and see the outrageous designs and epic size of the Hot Wheels behemoths on the arena floor. Meet favorite drivers and performers. Also check out the new VIP Backstage Experience. It’s a behind the scenes guided tour of what goes on before all the smashing and crashing.
Everyone becomes a kid at the show, which is geared to five to 10-year-olds.
“That’s the part that’s always cool because families are coming down and the parents get involved. When the parents are having fun, the kids are having fun, that’s what keeps them coming year after year,” Janezich says.
Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Photos: Bigfoot, driven by Caleb Janezich, headlines the latest edition of the spectacle. The iconic truck is joined by many Hot Wheels favorites to thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats, flying more than 35 feet in the air. Plus, the fiery Skelesaurus roars into the arena ready to “chomp.”
‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’
Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Kenny comes to the rescue. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/ backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — gets everyone into the groove as only they can.
Friday, Jan. 3, 8 p.m. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
‘…Your voice is heard’ Broadway comes to Tilles Center. “Dear Evan Hanson,” the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it, has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere. If you’ve yet to see it, now’s your opportunity. Declared “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by the Washington Post, it’s the first musical to take a groundbreaking look — from the point of view of both the parents and young people — at our complex, interconnected, and social media-filled lives. It features an uplifting score, including some of the most iconic musical theatere songs from the last decade: “You Will Be Found,” “Waving Through A Window,” and “For Forever.”
Thursday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
THE Your Neighborhood
Jan. 10
Yacht Rock Revue
The kings of ‘70s tribute hit the road with an authentic throwback to the era, on the Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10-11, at 8 p.m. Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites listeners on a nostalgic voyage through the sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The dynamic Atlanta-based 10-piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the yacht rock genre. Their original album “Escape Artist” is a bold homage to this iconic sound. Each side of the album encapsulates the band’s ability to transport audiences to a simpler, more carefree time. Lead singles like “Tropical Illusion” and “Passengers” set the tone, evoking sunsets and salty breezes with their lush instrumentation and ethereal vocals.
Collaborations with yacht rock legends Elliot Lurie and Robbie Dupree underscore the band’s status as innovators within their genre. YRR continues to captivate audiences nationwide with their infectious energy and unabashedly joyous performances. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves. $55, $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Home for the Holidays Adoption
There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during, “Home for the Holidays” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. All fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, now through Sunday, Jan. 5. Licensing feels still apply. Prospective adopters can browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/ animal-shelter and also on the shelter’s Facebook page. 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 785-5220.
Winter Tennis
Sign up for the Malverne Youth Board winter tennis program, held Saturdays, Jan. 4-Feb. 8, at Point Set in Oceanside. Ages 7 and up welcome to participate. Adult sessions, 10 to 11 a.m. and 11 a.m. to noon. Youth session, ages 10 and under, noon to 1 p.m. $175 per person. Register at Malverne Village.org.
Peaceful Yoga Classes
Looking to improve flexibility? Reduce stress and enhance your wellbeing? Come to 32 Church St. in Malverne. New students can get unlimited classes for the first two weeks after a payment of $39. Business hours vary by day of the week. Contact (516) 992-6311 or go to peacefulyoga.net for more information.
Splish Splash…Animal Baths
Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents,” Sunday, Jan. 5, 1:30-2 p.m., at the drop-in program. Join an animal educator in the Yellow Studio’s Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animal “residents.” Observe animal bath time. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
West Hempstead BOE meets
The West Hempstead Board of Education holds its next business meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m., in the videoconference room of the Secondary School. 400 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead.
Malverne BOE meets
The Malverne Board of Education next meets Tuesday, Jan. 14, 8 p.m., at Malverne High School. To view the meeting virtually, go to malverneschoolslive.com. 80 Ocean Ave.
Let’s Skate
Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.
Teens are invited to Malverne Public Library to enjoy a movie on the library’s big screen. See “Twilight,” Thursday, Jan. 16, 4-6:15 p.m. Share some snacks (provided) and watch a great movie with your friends. Stephenie Meyer’s romantic and suspenseful best seller that started the phenomenon comes to life in this action-packed chronicle of the modern-day love story between a teenage girl and a vampire. Rated PG-13. For more information, visit malvernelibrary.org or call (516) 599-0750. 61 St. Thomas Place.
Mah Jongg
Get in the game. Bring your mah jongg card and set to Malverne Public Library, Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m. Players of all experience levels welcome. For more information, visit malvernelibrary.org or call (516) 599-0750. 61 St. Thomas Place.
Having an event?
Bird walk
The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for another in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Sunday, Jan. 5, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet The group will meet in parking lot #3, off Exit 18 of the Southern State Parkway.
To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon. org.
Village Meeting
The Malverne Board of Trustees meets on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m., at Village Hall. 99 Church St., Malverne.
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.
In concert
Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for the 2025 unique chamber music series, “Four Seasons in Music,” Sunday, Jan. 12, 3 p.m. The duoJalal ensemble-in-residence led by Kathryn Lockwood on viola, with percussionist Yousif Sheronick, violinists Deborah Buck and Emma Frucht and cellist Caroline Stinson presents a German flavored. Celebrating Germany’s rich history of extraordinary composers, including Bach, Mozart, Schubert and Brahms, to the less traditional, this concert will warm you up on a winter afternoon.
A reception follows. $56, $45 members. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For tickets and information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
January 2, 2025 —
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 01/08/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.
15/25. WEST HEMPSTEAD - Gil & Ilana Broochian, Variances, lot area occupied, average front yard setback, side yard, rear yard, construct 2-story & 2nd floor addition with cantilever & 2 a/c units all attached to dwelling., W/s Euclid Ave., 77.62’, S/o Jefferson St., a/k/a 690 Euclid Ave. 16/25. WEST HEMPSTEAD - Joshua Goldgrab & Ricki Marcus, Variance, front yard average setback, construct 1-story addition & covered porch attached to dwelling., N/s Knollwood Dr., 392.10’ W/o Nassau Blvd., a/k/a 590 Knollwood Dr. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in West Hempstead within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals
The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 150775
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ARCHITECTURAL & SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL & SITE PLAN REVIEW of the Inc. Village of Malverne will hold a PUBLIC HEARING at the Malverne Village Hall, 99 Church Street, Malverne, New York 11565 on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 7:30 pm to hear the following cases: Christopher & Meredith Heine
7 Winfield Pl.; Residential “C” District
Building Permit Application #2024-0706
Proposes to construct a second story addition over existing single family 1 1/2 story dwelling. Vishnu & Kamla
Gangadin
55 Wright Ave.; Residential “A” District Permit Application #s 2024-0496; 2024-0498; 2024-0607; and 2024-0499
Proposes to install inground swimming pool; construct open sided cabana with outdoor seasonal kitchen in rear yard; construct patio; masonry fire pit; and 3 ft. high planter retaining wall in rear yard and front yard on Linmouth Road; install rear facing 5-foothigh solid masonry fence located in rear yard and front yard on Linmouth Road; proposes to install 5-foot-high total height
(4-foot-high metal open picket on 1-foot-high solid masonry wall) front yard facing fence on Wright Avenue and Linmouth Road; proposes to install side yard facing 5- foot-high total height (4-foot-high metal open picket on 1-foot-high solid masonry wall). All interested parties should appear at the above time and place. The Architectural & Site Plan Review Board Meeting will be immediately followed by a work session of the Board of Trustees. BY ORDER OF THE MALVERNE BOARD OF TRUSTEES INC. VILLAGE OF MALVERNE
Jill Valli, Village Clerk December 24, 2024 150779
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Traffic Commission of the Incorporated Village of Malverne will meet on the following dates at 7:30pm at Malverne Village Hall, 99 Church St., Malverne, NY 11565; January 15, 2025, April 16, 2025, July 16, 2025, October 15, 2025. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Inc. Village of Malverne Jill Valli, Village Clerk
Dated: January 2, 2025 150780
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Lisa Pearce a/k/a Lisa Williamson; Robin Williamson; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 4, 2019 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 4, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 480 Hopatcong Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Lakeview, near Rockville Center, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 35 Block 460 Lot 853. Approximate amount of judgment $287,760.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 602518/2018. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Russell Burman, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP
f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: December 12, 2024
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 150764
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P., -againstJUANA E. BONILLA, 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 19, 2023, wherein MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P. is the Plaintiff and JUANA E. BONILLA, 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 February 6, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known
as 234 SYCAMORE STREET, WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY 11552; and the following tax map identification: 35-377-40 & 41. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE, OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WEST HEMPSTEAD, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601557/2018. Janine T. Lynam, 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. 150756
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. GESNER SEJOUR, et al, Defts. Index #608202/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Jan. 24, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 35, Block 456, Lots 582-584. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale. MARY ELLEN DIVONE, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #101944 150425
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION
TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JOAN MORRIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 24, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on October 29, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau
The Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs honored a quartet of Malverne High School students for their positive impact on the community. Students Coleene Elias, left, and Gabrielle Augustin, Malverne High Principal Kesha Bascombe, and students Makayla Boubert and Coralie Mitton.
Malverne students noted for
inspirational civic impact
Four Malverne High School students — Gabrielle Augustin, Makayla Boubert, Coleene Elias and Coralie Mitton — were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the community during the Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs’ Kwanzaa Celebration on Dec. 18.
In alignment with the event’s theme, “Be a Beacon of Light for a Brighter Future,” these exceptional students were recognized for their inspiring
County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 77 Alden Court, Malverne, NY 11565. 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 Malverne, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 20 and Lot 474. Approximate amount of judgment is $754,838.70 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #003452/2014. Cash will not be accepted.
Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee
Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 150433
efforts to uplift and positively impact their community.
Each honoree demonstrated a unique combination of academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement, meeting the high standards for this recognition, which included maintaining a 90-plus grade-point average and a strong record of service.
–Jeffrey Bessen
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CMG MORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, Against JANICE COGHLAN, AS EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM S. GROOMS A/K/A WILLIAM GROOMS, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/12/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/16/2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 17 Hopatcong Avenue, West Hempstead, New York 11552, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York.
Section 35 Block 462 Lot 508
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $274,404.81 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 17-001008 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER, NY 10573
Courtesy Malverne school district
Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers
an excellent opportunity for a
Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department.
customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
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.
Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
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 $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.
Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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 $34,320 + 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
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x239
Our brick walls aren’t what we expected
A Waterfront Beauty
Welcome to an extraordinary waterfront home that masterfully blends contemporary design with unmatched resilience. Constructed on 42 pilings with steel-reinforced block concrete, this 5,600-square-foot residence is built for exceptional energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. Inside, you'll find 5 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 luxurious baths, and three expansive decks, two front-facing and one rear, complete with a gas hookup. The open floor plan is beautifully appointed with hardwood floors, a gas-burning fireplace, and high-end appliances. For year-round comfort, the ground and lower levels are equipped with radiant heat. The expansive yard is a true retreat, with a versatile cabana that can be enjoyed in any season. Perfectly located close to the LIRR and the west end, this home is on the open bay, adjacent to a scenic waterfront walking path, and minutes away from a platinum
Q. After much research, we chose brick for our new house. It has been a nightmare getting satisfaction from the mason who did the work. We noticed after only a few months that there were white powder-like streaks across the brick walls in many places. We spoke with the brick manufacturer, who said it sounded like an installation problem or streaking from other materials around it. The mason came back and looked at it. He used acid and brushed one spot and it lightened up but didn’t go away. He seemed annoyed with us, and said he could “send someone” to brush and put more cleaner on, but the whiteness would remain and it would have to “weather” after that. We had a sample wall built to make sure the color was right, and really went to a lot of effort for our choices. We are upset that the mason acted like it was our fault for complaining. We selected brick for high durability, weather resistance and low to no maintenance, and now we have this problem. What could have caused it, and is there any other remedy?
A. Brick was a great choice for all the reasons you described, and will outlast generations of occupants if installed correctly. The whiteness may be caused in a few ways. You have to first know what caused it.
Trim materials, above and around brick, will streak from the wrong paint on roof-edge or topof-wall trim. If the paint used was interior latex water-soluble paint, it will separate and run. Prefinished metal, factory finished, will also start to chalk and run. If a highly pigmented paint with low-resin binder was used, then the same results occur. The brick will be somewhat cleanable, but will have to be exposed to many cycles of rain, heat, freezing, etc., also known as weathering.
Because the mason did not mention the runoff of paint from trim, I suspect that your problem is the worst-case scenario, and all the cleaning with muriatic acid and a steel brush will not solve the staining entirely. Wire brushing or high powerwashing actually harms brick, because that amazingly strong fired-finish on the brick, the reason brick is such a good resister of the elements, is now going to be broken down to a grainy finish that can harbor mildew.
Sadly, the issue was completely preventable, either by using trim that did not lose color or by the brick installation. Yes, the brick installation. It starts with not having the correct width of the foundation to carry the brick, so it is installed too close to or right against the exterior plywood. That airspace is supposed to be 2 inches, clear, behind the brick, so rain that gets sucked into the mortar joints can drop behind the brick and “weep” from weep holes at the bottom of the wall. If you do not have weeps, then the wall was installed incorrectly and the problem will continue. Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions Helping Ukraine fight for justice
As the season of giving comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on not just all we have to be thankful for, but on those who still need our support. While there are certainly plenty of domestic issues, and Americans in need, we cannot forget the people of Ukraine, who are nearing the end of their third year of war with Russia.
The conflict, which has cost the lives of roughly 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers and over 11,000 civilians, has put on display the very real threat authoritarianism is posing to democracies all around the world today. And the people of Ukraine, who spent decades under Soviet rule and centuries under czarist rule before that, know how important their right to self-determination is, because they know what it means to live under a regime without rights. Here in America, where we’ve had the luck and privilege to live under a democratic government for our entire history, it can be easy to brush aside these kinds of conflicts by claiming that certain areas or certain cultures are used to con-
flict. We hear it about the Middle East all the time: so-called “experts” who assert that the region has “always been at war,” and that one ethnic group or another “doesn’t understand democracy.”
I don’t buy it.
As our Founding Fathers knew too well, human beings are born with an innate desire, and a right, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. While we may think of these words as uniquely American, I’ve always believed that they were written not just with our country’s population in mind, but as a fundamental fact of the human condition.
Wmyr Zelensky chose to stay in Kyiv in 2022, when the capital city refused to fall, and every day since, his people have had one message for Putin and the world: We will not go quietly.
When our nation was in its infancy and fighting for its existence, we relied heavily on the support not only of foreign nations like France and Spain, but on the extraordinary efforts of individuals from around the world who recognized that our fight for independence wasn’t just a local conflict, but a global one, that of freedom vs. tyranny.
e can’t turn our backs on a country that is fighting for its sovereignty.
And the people of Ukraine have shown their desire for these universal rights with a determination and tenacity that has allowed this country of only 37 million to face down, and frequently defeat, a richer and larger nation with nearly five times its population. And Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own rights and sovereignty. They are the first line of defense against the deranged, ahistorical and plutocratic worldview that Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian oligarchs are so desperate to spread.
When Ukrainian President Volody-
AThe analogy isn’t perfect. Ukraine isn’t fighting to win its independence from its mother country, but is fighting instead to maintain its sovereignty in the face of foreign aggression. But the fact remains that its people, who have seen family members’, friends’ and loved ones’ lives destroyed by the aggression of a brutish dictator, deserve not only our respect and admiration, but our help.
You may think, “But I’m only one person — what could I possibly do?” And obviously, no one person can end this conflict overnight (except maybe Rocky Balboa). But there are plenty of ways for us to do our part.
There are hundreds of international
charitable groups that are on the ground in Ukraine providing humanitarian aid, from UNICEF to the Red Cross. Other organizations, such as United Help Ukraine, Nova Ukraine and Razom for Ukraine, provide medical aid to tens of thousands of people and soldiers across the country.
There are also nearly 300,000 Ukrainian refugees now living in the United States, part of a diaspora of nearly 4 million Ukrainians, predominantly women, children and seniors, who have been forced to flee their homes in the face of ruthless Russian aggression. While many of these people have been kindly fostered by Americans, Europeans and people everywhere, there are always more people in need.
To learn more about how to host Ukrainian refugees, visit SupportUkraineNow.org.
Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own right to exist, but for the rights of people around the world struggling against conquest and the threat of extermination. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously declared, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” — and we can all do more to help Ukrainians restore peace in the country they love.
Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? WSheeline@liherald.com.
Governor Hochul’s totalitarian energy agenda
fter Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed the Planned Offshore Wind Transmission Act in the fall of 2023 due to local opposition to a wind farm’s high-voltage cables, the state had a trick up its sleeve.
The bill would have required the State Energy Research and Development Authority to establish transmission planning for the offshore grid, coupled with a requirement to conduct a costbenefit analysis that included the impact on ratepayers. In essence, the bill would have, for the first time, given New Yorkers insight into the true cost of implementing offshore wind projects and their transmission lines.
The question is, why did Hochul veto the bill? In addition to local opposition, I believe the answer is that if the public knew the true cost of these plans, people would ask hard questions about where money was being spent, and who was benefiting — questions the governor obviously doesn’t want raised.
In its infinite surreptitious reach, the
state concealed in its latest budget the Renewable Action through Project Interconnection Deployment, or RAPID, Act, granting it the authority to overrule local and public input. The state Office of Renewable Energy Siting would have final say on project siting, even over community objections.
Groups of so-called environmentalists, influenced by Hochul’s green agenda, have received millions of dollars to push the narrative that we need to move off fossil fuels now because the Earth is on fire. Before we go scorched-Earth, Let’s look at facts.
it’s a mistake to plan for wide-scale solar and wind power in New York at this point.
The state took away local municipality and public involvement in the siting of renewable-energy projects and paused congestion pricing. Further, a report by the state’s Fire Safety Working Group falsely concluded that fires last year at three battery energy storage system facilities in New York state — which store the energy that wind turbines create — had no environmental impact, neglecting to include test results of hydrogen fluoride levels in the air, soil or water at those sites. What is even more disturbing is that the working group has written an inadequate code that allows for placement of BESS facili-
ties in residential and commercial areas. Long Island water comes from aquifers that, if polluted, would jeopardize the health of millions. Hydrogen fluoride gas produced in these fires turns acidic when mixed with water, becoming acid rain. This acid, in large enough concentrations, can dissolve concrete. Would you or your children want to drink water this contaminated? Apparently, Hochul doesn’t care about such consequences in her drive to rapidly implement green-energy projects.
This act-now-and-monitor-later mentality, regardless of the consequences, does nothing to put minds at ease. To date, no robust engineering analysis suggests that Hochul’s RAPID Act plan will work. There has been no rigorous analysis. Instead, evidence seems to indicate that the state’s planned installations of solar arrays, wind turbines, battery facilities and transmission cables will not reliably power the grid, and will not prove safe or affordable.
Worth noting is the Vineyard Wind offshore debacle off the coast of Nantucket last July, when a single turbine blade self-destructed, dropping 60 tons of plastic into the ocean and wreaking
havoc, closing beaches and impacting marine life, fishing, local businesses and communities. How future offshore wind catastrophes will affect shore towns, wildlife and commercial fishing isn’t known. But New Yorkers should realize that it’s a mistake, at this point, to plan the construction, let alone the funding, for dozens of gigawatts of solar and wind power — along with batteries 100 times the size of the world’s largest existing battery — and new transmission lines to tie all this to the existing grid.
Instead, we might better ask, first, who thought this was possible? and second, from empirical examples of places with significant intermittent energy — California and Germany — why did anyone think this would enable New York to cut fossil-fuel use and reliably and affordably power the grid?
Given the egregious overreach of Hochul’s RAPID Act, there should be an immediate halt to all Office of Renewable Energy Siting work as well as a prohibition on placing any renewable-energy facilities within residential communities and near schools. Taxpayers don’t want to be the subjects of a large-scale energy experiment, or a class-action lawsuit, as a result of the “next big idea.”
Christina Kramer is the founder and president of Protect Our Coast – Long Island, New York.
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Stepping into a new year with hope and resolve
anew year always arrives freighted with emotion. It carries the accumulated hopes, frustrations and lessons of the previous 12 months, paired with the tantalizing possibility of transformation. This year, as we look ahead, we find ourselves grappling with familiar challenges while daring to believe in the promise of better days.
One challenge we must confront is the growing fragmentation of our shared experiences. Increasingly, the global and local spheres seem to exist in parallel universes. A catastrophe halfway across the world — whether a climate disaster, political upheaval or humanitarian crisis — has the power to shape economies and policies closer to home, yet often feels distant, reduced to a fleeting headline.
Meanwhile, our more local and personal concerns — the cost of living, caring for family and doing well at work — demand urgent attention but risk being overshadowed by the constant churn of global issues. Bridging this gap requires a recalibration of priorities. The new year demands both outward-looking empathy and a renewed focus on strengthening the foundations of our own communities.
Economically, the year ahead will likely test the resilience of all levels of
letters
She’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods,’ too
To the Editor:
our government. Trust in institutions has eroded, but there are also glimmers of progress worth celebrating: advancements in green technology, a renewed emphasis on workers’ rights, and shifting societal attitudes toward mental health and well-being. These trends suggest that positive change, while slow, is possible.
We need to be optimistic, but that demands resolve. The climate crisis, for instance, is no longer a future threat but an immediate reality, underscored by the fires, floods and record-breaking temperatures of recent years. The urgency to act cannot be overstated, and yet real solutions remain politically fraught and logistically complex. We face the challenge of balancing personal responsibility with the recognition that systemic change requires collective action.
At the same time, the new year also offers a chance to reimagine what progress means. Growth, long equated with economic expansion, is being reconsidered in light of its environmental and social costs. These ideas challenge deeply entrenched narratives about success and prosperity, but they also open up the possibility of more inclusive, equitable futures.
Many of us also enter 2025 grappling with uncertainty. The relentless pace of
I agree with everything that Peter King wrote in “Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly” (Dec. 19-25). Though I never had the chance to meet the cast of “Blue Bloods,” they did feel like family. There has to be a show for people like us — born in Queens, my grandfather was with the Manhattan mounted police in the late 1920s, my cousins were with the Port Authority Police during the Colin Ferguson bloodbath on the LIRR and on Sept. 11.
We love the Police Department and everything they stand for. They are our angels on earth in these crazy times. I appreciated grace before meals as a practicing Catholic. So there are many people who loved “Blue Bloods,” but I’m sure the network needed to try to make even more money! No one cares about the audience, just the dollar sign.
NANCY ALBERTELLI East Meadow
Yes, but the show was clearly fiction
To the Editor:
My father, like Mr. King’s, wore NYPD’s blue. Like Mr. King, I consider ‘Blue Bloods’ more nuanced than many cop shows. But his speculations about imagined opponents of the show, and his “unanswered questions,” are dubious.
technological change, the aftershocks of a pandemic and the simple unpredictability of life can feel overwhelming. Yet amid this turbulence, we find moments of connection and meaning. A neighbor’s kindness, a shared laugh, the rediscovery of an old passion — these small, often overlooked moments remind us why we persevere.
How do we handle the bad while making room for the good? We need to balance action with rest and contemplation, and ambition with gratitude. This requires recognizing that while we cannot solve every problem, we can contribute to their solutions.
As we step into the new year, we should resolve to move beyond empty platitudes. Instead of vague aspirations for “better days,” let’s strive for tangible progress: a stronger sense of community, a commitment to justice, and a willingness to adapt to changing realities. We should allow ourselves moments of joy, not just as a distraction from life’s difficulties, but also as a reminder of its possibilities.
It isn’t easy. There are always setbacks and frustrations, but there are also breakthroughs, large and small, that remind us of our capacity to endure, to grow and to create a better future. The new year’s gift gives us the opportunity to begin anew.
No doubt, the cast members are all outstanding people and first-class actors, but they were performers acting out dramatic scripts. It’s all fiction, and we can enjoy “as if” for the hour, but to extend the imaginary past the credits is delusional.
nals, clouding our view of reality. Our fiction is out of sync with our nonfiction, and we get confused. If real police were “Blue Bloods” police, we would not have had a Bernie Kerik as commissioner; there would be no need for civilian complaint review boards, body cameras and millions spent on misconduct settlements; and less turnover in Malverne/West
Americans generally tend to romanticize both our lawmen and our crimi-
opinions
For our schools, there’s no shortage of challenges
since the november election, I have been eager to resume my work as the assemblywoman in District 21 and tackle the tough issues affecting families across long Island. Most recently, one of my primary focuses has been addressing the complex challenges of equitable funding for public schools and meeting the needs of our local school districts.
I recently attended an education forum of the Southwest Quadrant, which encompasses districts in southwestern nassau County. The key topics there were the future of foundation aid, funding challenges, infrastructure and school safety, and charter schools. The forum provided invaluable information, including insight from superintendents, administrators, Board of Education trustees and PTa leaders. Their combined expertise offered a comprehensive understanding of the issues our schools face and the support they need from the state.
Since I began representing the 21st district in 2019, I’ve observed that our school districts share many challenges. Space limitations are a significant issue, with many districts forced to host universal pre-kindergarten programs at off-
district sites. The rockville Centre school district recently addressed this issue through an inter-municipal agreement with the village, creating 36 new pre-K seats at the village recreation center. Previously, the district relied on the Friedberg JCC, in Oceanside, to accommodate all families in the district. The Barry and Florence Friedberg JCC, in lynbrook, and the Tiny Tykes Early learning Center and Tutor Time, in East rockaway, also host pre-K for local districts.
In recent years, local districts have also faced rising numbers of English language learners, often from economically disadvantaged or homeless families. The demand for special-education services, mental health support, and health care accommodations has also surged. at the same time, schools are grappling with escalating costs of building maintenance, school and cybersecurity, technology upgrades and transportation. Transportation costs, in particular, have become a significant financial burden, especially in districts that transport large numbers of non-public-school students. Some districts also struggle with the financial impact of charter schools, which can divert resources from public schools. One local administrator suggested revising the state’s charter school approval process to limit expansions and regulate tuition rates —
Letters
the top brass. “Courtesy cards” would be in museums, not wallets.
Distractions from reality allow speculations like Mr. King’s suggestion that scriptwriters were pressured “to portray cops in a negative light,” as if any producers care at all about what viewers see between the commercials. There are other shows for that. Equally dangerous is his question about the series’ cancellation. Instead of noting the fact that the noble cast accepted a 25 percent pay cut to subsidize season 14, Mr. King conjures the demon of “woke” from nothing.
It’s true that the show’s fans will always have the memories, but we must hope our nostalgia doesn’t distract from the realities of 21st century law and its enforcement.
BrIan KElly Rockville Centre
The MTA should rethink its spending priorities
To the Editor:
l
ong Island r ail road commuters should be concerned about insufficient funds being earmarked to bring bridges,
an idea that warrants further consideration.
While many districts are experiencing declining enrollment, the number of students with substantial needs continues to grow. Foundation aid calculations should not rely solely on population metrics.
s pace limitations, more demand for special ed and rising costs, to name a few.
Schools today are tasked with addressing a broader range of needs than ever before. yet long Island districts consistently contribute more in taxes than they receive in state aid, increasing financial pressures at the local level.
Despite these challenges, I am inspired by the progress our schools are making. To support these efforts, I’ve met with superintendents and school leaders from Hewlett, lynbrook and East rockaway, and plan to meet with others soon.
During tours of lynbrook and East rockaway schools, guided by Superintendents Dr. Paul lynch and Dr. James DeTommaso, I witnessed how these districts are supporting students of all abilities. Their innovative approaches to addressing mental health challenges, accommodating Ell students, and meeting the increasing needs of children with special-education requirements were remarkable. a standout moment was observing the student cafés in lynbrook and East rockaway, where educators and special-ed students collaborated seamlessly to serve drinks
and snacks to the school population.
On Dec. 18 I attended a legislative briefing hosted by the nassau-Suffolk School Boards association and the long Island Education Coalition, on the rockefeller Institute report, a comprehensive study on recalculating the foundation aid formula. The session focused on the report’s recommendations, and also offered a platform to discuss key issues impacting public schools on long Island. It was an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas with experts, administrators and fellow legislators.
The briefing was extremely important as we enter 2025 with the prospect of recalculating the foundation aid formula in this year’s state budget. The formula’s base calculations have not been updated since 2016-17. But no change should be made in a vacuum, and must account for the many variables that have been added in the past decade to balance the formula. It’s clear that the growing changes in demographics and the variety of new metrics need to be considered in recalculating the formula. This will be challenging, and will require much more discussion, deliberation and reflection.
I look forward to discussing this more extensively in albany, and hope to form a working group in the hopes of delving further into the topic with my colleagues on long Island and throughout the state’s suburban areas at the next roundtable on Jan. 30.
Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.
viaducts, tunnels and other basic infrastructure that are in poor or marginal condition up to a state of good repair in the Metropolitan Transportation authority’s proposed $68 billion 2025-2029 Five year Capital Plan. This also applies to Metro-north railroad and new york City Transit.
It’s questionable whether $600 million is sufficient funding for l I rr critical infrastructure projects under the proposed plan. Can this eliminate the growing backlog of critical infrastructure repair? Too many critical capital assets remain in daily service beyond their anticipated useful life. There is still a $33 billion shortfall to fully fund the plan.
Safety, state of good repair, and reliable, on-time performance with a minimum of service disruptions at a fair price should be higher priorities than system expansion projects. The $7.7 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 2, the $5.5 billion Brooklyn-Queens light-rail Interborough Express and the $3.1 billion Metro n orth Bronx East Penn Station a ccess projects all need to be put on hold. Funding for all three would be better spent on critical infrastructure projects benefiting over 4 million nyC Transit subway, 200,000-plus lIrr and 200,000plus Metro north daily commuters. MTa
Chairman Janno lieber and board members have a fiduciary responsibility to protect the interests of riders and taxpayers.
larry PEnnEr Great Neck
Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.
