Nassau County District Attorney. Anne Donnelly and NYS Police Superintendent Steven James announce Thomas Mascia’s charges at the courthouse. On Oct. 30, the former state troper and West Hempstead resident falsely claimed he was shot on patrol, launching a multistate search for an assailant that never existed. Story, additional photo, Page 2.
By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com
This year Malverne residents, as well as other interested spectators, have gathered early on the morning of Feb. 2 to watch resident groundhog, Malverne Mel, make his 30th annual prediction of either an early spring or six more weeks of winter weather.
The much-anticipated prognostication has been made in all kinds of weather, from bright sunshine to a snowstorm.
The annual Groundhog Day celebration, which began in the village in 1996, was the result of a conversation between former Malverne
Mayor Joseph Canzoneri and Barry Manning, editor of the Malverne Times, which later became the Herald. Canzoneri and Manning were looking for an event that would put Malverne on the map, and came up with the idea of hosting the celebration.
“At that time, the only groundhog was Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania,” Canzoneri said. “And so, I said that’s a great idea.”
Malverne’s first Groundhog Day celebration was held at Chester A. Reese Veterans Memorial Park, and all the local officials from nearby towns were invited.
“We all wore top hats and there were numer-
By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com
Gov. Kathy Hochul last week unveiled a plan to restrict smartphone use in schools statewide. Her proposal would ban the use of the devices in kindergarten through high school classrooms for the entire day, and would direct schools to develop systems for storing them.
There’s no way you can say it’s not a distraction, that kids sometimes aren’t listening in class because of whatever is coming through on their phone.
2026 Executive Budget proposal would make $13.5 million in funding available for schools that need to purchase phone storage systems. It would also require schools to make it possible for parents to contact their children during the day if needed.
“New Yorkers agree that our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling,” Hochul said in a statement on Jan. 22. “This comprehensive proposal to restrict smartphone use in schools will ensure that New York’s statewide standard for distraction-free learning delivers the best results for our kids and educators.”
JEANNE D’ESpoSITo President, Malverne Board of Education
The plan, part of Hochul’s
Students would be allowed to use cellphones without internet capabilities, as well as any school-provided internet devices, in their classrooms. Exemptions would be allowed when required by an Individualized Education Program, when managing a medical condition or for other academic purposes, including translation.
If the proposal is adopted, the new phone requirements would be in place for the 2025-26 school year.
“We’ll have to look at exactly what we’re required to do and
Continued on page 9
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Thomas Mascia, a West Hempstead resident, turned himself on Monday for shooting himself in the leg while on patrol. He resigned from the New York State Police on Jan. 24, and was charged with tampering with physical evidence, falsely reporting an incident, and official misconduct three days later.
On Oct. 30 at 11:41 p.m., Mascia was on road patrol near Exit 17 on the Southern State Parkway when he called in that shots had been fired and he had been hit. Mascia reported that he had pulled over behind a stopped vehicle he assumed was in distress before shots were fired at him and the vehicle left the scene.
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Police Superintendent Steven G. James. Mascia shot himself with a personal gun, which was later discovered by state police and matched to the bullet casing’s discovered at the crime scene.
“The shooter we were all looking for only existed in Mascia’s head, in his imagination,” said Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly. Donnelly suggested Mascia faces possible one to three years in prison for his actions.
This was Mascia’s first day serving as a road patrol trooper on his own.
The event set off a multi-state manhunt, as law enforcement officials searched for the suspect and vehicle involved in the incident.
After finding no evidence of the described vehicle in the area, along with several other inconsistencies in Mascia’s story and a lack of body camera footage, a state investigation concluded he had violated official policy and falsely reported the incident.
“Our investigation determined that Mascia deliberately shot himself and he lied about it,” said New York State
His parents, Thomas and Dorothy, also turned themselves in. They were charged with criminal possession of a firearm, which was discovered while executing a search warrant on their property.
Mascia Sr. is a former NYPD officer who pleaded guilty on a charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine in 1993. As a convicted felon, Mascia Sr. is not allowed to possess a firearm.
The nearly $800,000 in cash seized from Mascia’s home was linked to his parents and the source of the money is currently being investigated.
All three were arraigned in district court on Jan. 27 and released. They’re due back in court on Feb. 5.
“We do not tolerate such conduct,” said Superintendent James. “We will not let one individuals actions overshadow the commitment and dedication of the thousands of troops in law enforcement who tirelessly perform their duties.”
West Hempstead’s Board of Education recognized its musical students on Jan. 21.
“A Continued Family Tradition”
Serving All of Valley Stream with Tradition, Commitment, and Integrity since 1932 Funeral Home, Inc. Est. 1932
John F. Ferrante • Michael J. Grant Edward A. Bruns President Emeritus
Sophia Ciminera (vocal), Luke Filincieri (violin), Victoria Hasan (viola), Jaclyn Luong (violin), Benjamin Mora (flute), Julianna Poirot (alto sax), Nalah Vargas (clarinet), Alicia Varone (clarinet) and Amaya Vineyard (vocal), take part in the Nassau Music Educators Association’s All-County ensembles.
Christina Dominguez Espinosa (violin), Victoria Hasan (viola), and Grace
Shanley (cello), took part in the Long Island String Festival Association’s festivals. Benjamin Mora (flute) won first place at a live performing arts show hosted by the Society Incorporated and earned a scholarship.
Victoria Hasan (viola) will participate in the 2025 National Association for Music Education All Eastern Division Conference. Hasan will perform in the All-State Festival at NYSSMA’s annual winter conference in December –Madison Gusler
By Madison Gusler mgusler@liherald.com
As is annual tradition, the village of Malverne celebrates Groundhog Day with the ceremonial prediction from Malverne Mel indicating if there will be an early spring or six more weeks of winter. This year, the occasion has been called out by PETA for the risks taken with the groundhog during the celebration.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, in partnership with Humane Long Island, sent a letter to Malverne Mayor Tim Sullivan on Jan. 21, asking the mayor to consider adopting alternative methods for celebrating Groundhog Day, such as using an animatronics groundhog or having a human dress in a groundhog costume. These options will not cause any harm or distress to the groundhog.
This letter was sent in light of Malverne Mel escaping his handlers at last year’s ceremony and attempting to run away from the celebration. Mel was safely captured and the event continued as planned.
“Groundhogs are shy animals,” said Debbie Metzler, senior director of captive wildlife for PETA. “They would never choose to be exposed to flashing cameras, human handling or noisy crowds. So we are reminding the mayor and all Malvernites that Mel is an individual, and although he’s intelligent and self-aware, he cannot predict the weather. And even if he could, it’s not OK to stress out a terrified wild animal for a gimmick.”
Groundhogs are woken from hibernation in order to partake in these annual
celebrations, which cause distress for these animals. Further harm occurs throughout the celebration, as the groundhogs closely interact with humans, a species they usually avoid.
PETA has continually campaigned for Groundhog Day ceremonies to adopt more human methods for their celebrations, reaching out to Punxsutawney Phil and Staten Island Chuck.
This year they have also reached out to Mel’s local competition Holtsville Hal. The Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center in Holtsville, where Hal’s ceremony takes place, is currently under investigation concerning allegations of animal neglect and medical malpractice after nine former employees provided this information to Newsday.
“We’re urging people not to allow the human-washing of the Holtsville Ecology site by attending Groundhog Day with Holtsville Hal,” said John Di Leonardo, Malverne native and executive
director of Humane Long Island. “Simultaneously, we’re urging Malverne to retire Malverne Mel and stop forcing him to be used as a prop for a photo-op.”
“It’s incredibly cruel and disingenuous. I mean, everyone knows groundhogs can’t predict the weather,” said Di Leonardo. “It’s just an old and tired tradition that really needs to end.”
PETA and Humane LI suggest Malverne have a willing person dress up as Mel, PETA is even willing to provide the costume. Last year, the village of Babylon opted to have a human performer dress up as Babylon Belle.
“I was a Malverne resident for 25 years. Humane Long Island was founded in Malverne,” said Di Leonardo. “It breaks my heart every single year that you know that they continue to exploit animals for photo-ops, when they could be using animatronics, they could be using human performers, they could be using so many other things. I mean we
need to bring Malverne’s tradition into the 21st century and stop exploiting scared animals who want to be nowhere near humans.”
In response to PETA’s letter, Mayor Sullivan makes clear that during the annual ceremony, Malverne Mel is only ever handled by his caretaker. Malverne Mel, along with his handler, is provided by the STAR Foundation (Save the Animal Rescue Foundation) in return for a donation that helps further their goals to provide a safe haven for injured animals.
“It’s a good foundation that we like to support,” said Sullivan. “And so long as they have a groundhog, I think that they’re agreeable to lending him to our village as a fund, educational opportunity for the children of the community.”
This year the celebration will continue as planned, with Malverne Mel partaking in the event. But Sullivan is open to continued communication with PETA and Humane LI.
The Malverne High School Model United Nations Club attended the Kellenberg Model United Nations Conference on Jan. 11, taking home a total of six awards.
As part of the Model UN Club, students conducted background research and wrote resolutions in collaboration with delegates from all over Long Island. The teams are focused on using diplomacy to find innovate solutions for global problems such as combating climate change, environmental issues, and capital punishment.
The club emphasizes civic duty and the student’s role as global citizens.
The students have been putting in considerable time and effort into their committees and are seeing their efforts pay off.
Michael Lawless, Olivia Brown and Lorraine Akou each won Best Delegate awards for their committees. Kaiden Ulysse won Outstanding Delegate, while Mahalia Singh and Evelyn Brown both won honorable mention.
Model UIN Club is currently planning Malverne’s first ever Model UN conference, Malmunc 1, which will be held on Apr. 5 an attended by delegates from schools across Long Island.
–Madison Gusler
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Heading into an election year for all 19 Nassau County legislative districts, the lines have been redrawn after a lawsuit that originated in 2023 was settled last Friday.
The agreed-on new districts are considered a victory for Democrats.
“This is a tremendous victory for Nassau County,” Jay Jacobs, the New York state and Nassau County Democratic Committee chairman, stated in a news release. “The illegal map sought to disenfranchise communities of color and undermine our democratic principles. This settlement reinforces the fundamental rights of all voters and sends a clear message that such tactics will not be tolerated.”
County Democrats, along with 21 plaintiffs from throughout the legislative districts, filed the lawsuit, alleging that before they were redrawn, the districts were racist, gerrymandered and gave an unfair advantage to Republicans, who hold majority control in the Legislature.
The suit also claimed that voters leaning in one direction were being packed into two districts, while the rest were spread out in other districts as a way to “dilute their voting strength.”
“Once again, the Republican majority in the Nassau County Legislature did
something that was unconstitutional by imposing legislative lines that were unconstitutional,” County Legislator Carrié Solages, who now represents a district similar to when he was first elected in 2011, said. “I am very thankful to the Democratic Party for assembling a team of attorneys, experts on maps and data from across the country, at a cost of well over half a million dollars, in order to fight for a fair, legal map in Nassau County.”
Under the terms of the settlement:
■ The illegal redistricting map is nullified, addressing violations of the New York Voting Rights Act and Municipal Home Rule Law.
■ A new, fairer legislative map is established, including six majority-minority districts and an Asian Influence District, a substantial increase from the prior four majority-minority districts.
■ The voices of Black, Latino and Asian communities are amplified, ensuring that communities of color can elect candidates who represent their interests.
“After long negotiations, Republican attempts to change venue and even disqualify the judge presiding over the case, the Democrats arrived at a map that is fair and creates the opportunity for historic six minority majority districts,” Solages said.
1. Flow. A sedentary life causes brain deterioration. Blood flow to the brain keeps oxygen in your brain cells which gives them life. Keep moving, walking and get some exercise.
2. Energize. Junk food clogs your arteries and lowers energy, causing a sedentary lifestyle. Healthy food gives energy to your body and brain. Refuel and brighten the lights.
3. Recharge. Lack of enough sleep causes deterioration of the brain. Your brain needs downtime to recharge. Give it enough recharging and keep the lights burning bright.
4. Relax. Constant high stress has damaging effects on the brain and can lead to destructive habits which add further damage. Learn to control stress and let the lights shine.
5. Engage. Like muscles your brain needs exercise. Too often people, after retirement, retire their brains also so they atrophy. Stay engaged, exercise your brain with reading, puzzles and other challenges to keep the lights going on strong.
6. Love. When people grow isolated their brains lack stimulation and they grow dull. Stay connected with family and friends to brighten the lights.
7. Adventure. Many older people lose their zest for new adventures. You don’t need to climb Everest just break out of dull routines. Any venture out to new places turns up the lights.
8. Purpose. People can lose interest in life after they have retired, feeling they have no purpose. Look for opportunities to volunteer. Helping others keeps the lights flaming.
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District 1: Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, South Hempstead, and portions of Baldwin and Hempstead.
District 2: Carle Place, New Cassel, Westbury, and portions of Hempstead, Uniondale, Hicksville and Jericho.
District 3: Elmont, Lakeview, Bellerose, Bellerose Terrace, South Floral Park, Malverne Park Oaks, and portions of Malverne, Valley Stream, North Valley Stream, West Hempstead and Franklin Square.
District 4: Long Beach, Lido Beach, East Atlantic Beach, Island Park, Harbor Isle, Barnum Island, Point Lookout and portions of Oceanside.
District 5: Portions of Hempstead, Uniondale, West Hempstead and Franklin Square.
District 6: Freeport, and portions of Baldwin and Oceanside.
District 7: Atlantic Beach, Bay Park, Cedarhurst, East Rockaway, Hewlett, Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Harbor, Hewlett Neck, Inwood, Lawrence, Woodmere, Woodsburgh, and portions of Oceanside, South Valley Stream and Valley Stream.
District 8: Garden City, Garden City South, Stewart Manor, and portions of Floral Park, Franklin Square, New Hyde Park and North New Hyde Park.
District 9: Mineola, East Williston, Garden City Park, Herricks, Manhasset Hills, North Hills, and portions of Floral Park, New Hyde Park, North New Hyde Park, Searingtown and Williston Park.
District 10: Albertson, Flower Hill, Great Neck, Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Gardens, Great Neck Plaza, Harbor Hills, Kensington, Kings Point, Lake Success, Manhasset, Munsey
Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, Roslyn Estates, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Saddle Rock Estates, Thomaston, University Gardens, and portions of Roslyn Heights, Searingtown and Williston Park.
District 11: Baxter Estates, Glen Cove, Glenwood Landing, Manorhaven, Port Washington, Port Washington North, Roslyn Harbor, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, and portions of Glen Head.
District 12: Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore, North Merrick, and portions of Wantagh.
District 13: East Meadow, Salisbury, and portions of Levittown
District 14: Lynbrook, North Lynbrook, and portions of Valley Stream, North Valley Stream, Malverne and South Valley Stream.
District 15: North Wantagh, Seaford, and portions of Levittown and Wantagh.
District 16: Farmingdale, Old Bethpage, Plainview, and portions of Hicksville, Jericho, Syosset and Woodbury.
District 17: Bethpage, Plainedge, South Farmingdale, and portions of Hicksville and North Massapequa.
District 18: Bayville, Brookville, Centre Island, Cove Neck, East Hills, East Norwich, Greenvale, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, and portions of Glen Head and Jericho.
District 19: East Massapequa, Massapequa, Massapequa Park, and portions of North Massapequa.
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V.S. South Senior Basketball
IT WAS A HISTORIC night for DelValle Jan. 17 when Valley Stream South faced Wantagh. The two-time All-County guard reached the 1,000point career milestone in the Falcons’ hardfought defeat. He also assumed the top spot in Nassau County this season for 3-pointers made with 44. A captain, he is averaging 17.4 points per game, which ranks him in the Top 20 in Nassau, and scored in double figures in all but one of the Falcons’ first 14 games.
Thursday, Jan. 30
Gymnastics: South Side at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Port Wash at Farmingdale 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Manhasset at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Oceanside at Freeport 6 p.m.
Gymnastics: Lynbrook at North Shore 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Baldwin 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Clarke at Hewlett 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Locust Valley at East Rockaway 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 31
Boys Basketball: Syosset at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Lawrence at Plainedge 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Massapequa 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Herricks at Mepham 7 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 1
Boys Basketball: Wantagh at Plainedge 12 p.m.
Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North 12 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Carle Place at West Hempstead 12 p.m.
Girls Basketball: V.S. North at V.S. South 12 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 3
Boys Basketball: Calhoun at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Long Beach at Calhoun 5:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Farmingdale at Massapequa 7 p.m.
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.
By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com
It’s never easy being the defending Long Island champions. West Hempstead boys team is finding this out as it wears a target on its back amidst an 8-6 start.
West Hempstead lost three starters from the spectacular team that swept to the Nassau County Class B title, then captured the school’s first-ever Long Island crown.
Trying to repeat will be a tall order because West Hempstead was bumped up to Class A against larger schools.
Still there is hope. The still-talented Rams boast two premier senior scorers/ future college players in shooting Evan Wilson and senior 6-4 power forward Isaiah Blunt, plus a true point guard in junior Jonathan Houston..
Firstly, West Hempstead is trying to win its conference title (League 8) and is tied with Carle Place at 6-1.
“It’s been very important that every game we play, it’s like our last,’’ said Wilson, who is averaging 18.9 points, 4 rebounds and 1.4 steals. “We have to play with grit and heart to show even though we won last year, we have a lot of potential for this year.”
In the Rams’ last game, on Jan. 16, West Hempstead lost to Locust Valley for its only conference loss. The wild Locust Valley celebration demonstrated how marked a team the Rams are.
“They were extremely pumped up and excited to get the win,’’ West Hempstead head coach Eric Rubin said. “I’m sure a big part of their intent was we were defending champs.’’
Wilson is playing through a knee injury and there are other bumps and bruises on a roster not known for depth.
“Our goal is to peak in February, during the playoffs’ Rubin said. “The last week or so, we took a step back. But I’m hoping it’s just nagging injuries because we’re not the deepest team.’’
But they are top-heavy with the elite Wilson and Blunt wrecking havoc. In its 66-58 win against Carle Place on Dec. 20, the duo combined to notch 43 points.
The rematch is Feb. 1st and that will likely decide the conference championship.
Wilson, who averaged just 9 points last season, has improved his 3-point shooting and, as Rubin says, “is very quick going to the basket.’’
Wilson makes a daring pairing with Blunt, who is 6-4 but plays like a guard with his perimeter shooting. Blunt is averaging a team-high 22.1 points, 9 rebounds, 1 block and 1.5 steals. Blunt has a reliable 3-point shot and is dangerous in transition.
The glue is Houston, a floor general averaging 6 points, 4.8 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals. “A pass-first point guard is nice to have when you
have guys who can score,’’ Rubin said. Two other key contributors are senior forward Riley Leddick and sophomore point guard Alex Davis. Leddick is the consummate role player. “He’s doing the dirty work and is one of our best defenders,’’ Rubin said of Leddick. “He’s a kid who helps us without having the ball in his hand.’’
In his third season, Rubin is thrilled at turning the Rams into a power. “Some kids come in around 6 a.m. before school and work on their shot,’’ Rubin said. “We went from a team when I got there two years ago who couldn’t hit the side of the barn to actually having some solid shooters because they worked at it a lot.’’
By MADELEINE ROSEN Special to the Herald
The Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act would provide small businesses with up to $4,000 for marketing in community media.
Small businesses in Malverne and West Hempstead might soon be receiving some much-needed financial relief.
Earlier this month, State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblywoman Jen Lunsford introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act, which would establish a new $10 million tax credit for small businesses advertising in local media outlets.
The LOCAL Act aims to support the marketing needs of small businesses — especially those that are minority-, woman- or veteran-owned, or that have 10 employees or fewer — while keeping investment in the media outlets that New Yorkers rely on everyday for critical information.
“This legislation fosters a cycle of growth, allowing small businesses to expand their reach while simultaneously supporting the media outlets that keep New Yorkers informed and engaged,” Martinez, the bill’s Senate sponsor, said.
The legislation has already garnered staunch support from the media and business community alike. Led by The Empire State Local News Coalition, which is composed of over 200 local newspapers across New York — including the Malverne/Wet Hempstead Herald — the bill has received praise from business trade groups throughout the state, which view the proposal as a solution to increase investment in small businesses and sustain local news organizations.
“The LOCAL Act is a win-win-win for local busi-
nesses, local news, and local communities,” Zachary Richner, founding member of the Empire State Local News Coalition, said. “These institutions are intricately connected and work together to create the vibrant communities that New Yorkers love.”
The bill comes as the 2025 Legislative Session kicks off and negotiations begin on the State’s next fiscal year budget, which must be passed by both the Senate and Assembly and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul by April 1. The tax credit would need to be included in the state’s final spending plan.
“The LOCAL Act is about more than just advertising – it’s about investing in the economic health of our local communities and investing in the kind of local journalism that we need now more than ever,” Martinez’ fellow bill sponsor, Lunsford, said.
Under the LOCAL Act, a minority-, woman- or veteran-owned business, as well as any business with 10 employees or fewer, would be eligible to receive a
refundable tax credit of 80 percent of its first $5,000 of local advertising for a maximum credit of $4,000 per year. The program would be capped at $10 million annually.
“By making community advertising for small businesses more accessible and affordable, this proposed act will help them with their marketing strategy and customer engagement while simultaneously supporting local media outlets, which are also small companies,” said Matt Cohen, Long Island Association president and CEO. “The legislation is a win-win, and we look forward to its passage this session.”
“We are excited to support local businesses,” said Stuart Richner, president of Richner Communications Inc. “By making advertising more accessible and affordable, the LOCAL Act will empower Long Island’s small businesses to reach new customers while ensuring that our local media outlets continue to connect and inform our residents.”
By Danielle Schwab & Tim Baker
Sean Cirillo Oceanside
My 2025 resolution is to replace all my local car trips with walking and biking. Replacing these short trips that are typically done with a car is healthier, saves me money, better connects me to the community and I’m never stuck in traffic on a bike.
Mike
Ahl Babylon
I would like to get stronger. I ride my bike in Babylon. My average is 45 minutes to do 10 miles, and I want to get it under 40 minutes. I have two little boys, I want to be healthy for them.
David Friedman Hewlett
Definitely need a nice relaxing vacation somewhere warm. I haven’t been to Atlantis in many years, or maybe Italy. There are too many things to do and I’m getting older, so I need a vacation.
Sharon Edwards Merrick
Time management is definitely my resolution for this year. Last year really went by quickly; it was over and done. I have everything on one to-do list. I have a family that I want to spend some time with and then I have my business. I’m trying to balance everything.
Cliff
Krauter Bayville
I would like to become more involved in the committees around the city (Glen Cove). I meet many people that do things out of their good nature. It’s something I highly respect and admire and I’d like to try to do more of.
how it might differ from what we’re now doing,” Jeanne D’Esposito, president of the Malverne school district Board of Education, said.
Malverne’s current cellphone policy, D’Esposito explained, requires that cellphones be stored in lockers throughout the school day. Phone use is allowed in before- and after-school activities, and for high school juniors and seniors who have open-campus privileges while they are off campus. Students who need to contact a parent or guardian during school hours may do so by using a phone in the main office. Parents may communicate with their children by contacting the main office.
u‘Don’t use it during the day,’ which was always the rule, but they need to just not have the phone.”
“We do use, in many of our classrooms at the secondary level, a phone caddy,” Daniel Rehman, West Hempstead Superintendent of Schools, said.
ltimately, it’s about educating the students and the adults in the buildings on expectations.
dAnieL rehmAn Superintendent, West Hempstead School District
“There’s no way you can say it’s not a distraction, that kids sometimes aren’t listening in class because of whatever is coming through on their phone,” D’Esposito acknowledged. “It’s just much better for them to just not have the phone. Like, you can say
“The kids will walk in the room and put their phone in the phone caddy. So when that is used in fidelity, it works very well.”
West Hempstead’s cellphone policy requires that the devices be turned off when students enter school buildings, and be secured by the students. Use of phones is limited to designated areas in the buildings, as established by building administration. Students may utilize their devices in the classrooms under the direction and supervision of faculty.
“Ultimately, it’s about educating the students and the adults in the buildings on expectations, and then being consistent (about those) expectations,” Rehman said.
Three people were arrested on Woodfield Road in West Hempstead at 3:20 p.m., for allegedly driving a stolen vehicle, Nassau police said.
Police pulled over a black 2017 Honda after seeing the vehicle making what they thought was an unsafe lane change while traveling north on Woodfield Road.
After the subsequent investigation, officers learned the vehicle had been reported stolen.
The driver, Brailyn Jaquez Perez, 23, of Freeport, was arrested, along with passengers Luis Joel Batlle Espinosa, 19, and Adamarie Burgos, 20. Both Burgos and Espinosa are from the Bronx.
They were all charged with criminal possession of stolen property and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Jaquez Perez has also been charged with aggravated unlicensed operation and multiple traffic summonses.
All three were arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead on Jan. 21. They all pled not guilty to their charges.
After their arraignments, they were released without bail. They will be indicted in Nassau County District court on Jan. 30.
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Students at both Malverne High School and West Hempstead Secondary School had an opportunity to compete at the New York State and Northeast Virtual Enterprise Business Plan Conference and Exhibition, held at the Long Island University Post Campus on Jan. 8 and 9.
Virtual Enterprise is an elective class in which students participate in a business simulation, the classroom transforms into an office setting where the students become business executives. Together, the students create a business and run it virtually throughout the school year, experiencing the challenges a real company may face.
This class is implemented with the help of the nonprofit educational organization, Virtual Enterprise. Since its inception in 1996, their programs have provided over 140,000 students authentic business and entrepreneurship experiences.
At the competition, students competed with classes from across the state in two events. The ‘Business Plan Competition’ requires students prepare written submissions and oral presentations of their company’s complete business plan, demonstrating student’s business expertise for a panel of judges. The top teams from this round will qualify for the championship round in February.
The ‘Best Booth & Sales Pitch Competition,’ provides students the opportunity to showcase their skills by promoting and selling their products and services to guest shoppers. Participating volunteers interact with students on the trade show floor and rate their sales pitch and booth design. Teams that perform well will be invited to participate in a real trade show, where they will demonstrate the business skills students learn through the VE program.
West Hempstead Secondary School sent students representing two firms to compete at the conference. Both ‘Activ8,’ an athletic performance product busi-
ness, and ‘At Your Service,’ an ecofriendly luxury jewelry business, participated in the exhibition’s events. The high school students demonstrated their skills for the judges, as well as members of the VE-JV firm, who observed their teammates to prepare for their spring tradeshow.
The students behind ‘Activ8’ went home with a silver medal, winning in the Best Sales Pitch category.
Malverne’s founding VE class took home two gold medals for their conference presentation. The Student Executive Board presented the sales pitch for their virtual business ‘My Growth’ to the judges and won a gold medal. In addition, Malverne students took home a gold medal in the Best Booth category.
–Madison Gusler
By Danielle Schwab
When it comes to Monster Jam, go big or go home.
Witness the roar of eight monster trucks battle it out for the winning trophy at the fullthrottle competition with plenty of car-smashing, donut-wheeling and back-flipping action fans know and expect.
Monster Jam arrives at UBS Arena next weekend, Feb. 7-9, taking over Belmont Park for three days packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts. This isn’t just any event — it’s “As Big As It Gets.” where where every moment is unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable.
Both monster truck fanatics and first-time watchers will experience all the motorsport has to offer in a four-part competition ruled by these 12,000 pound mechanical beasts. Drivers bring out all the stunts for the competition to the delight of spectators.
“Who doesn’t love big trucks crushing stuff, mjumping high in the air, rolling over and doing all the crazy stuff we do?” says Matt Cody, the longtime driver of Grave Digger and 2024 Arena Series West Champion.
• Friday through Sunday, Feb. 7-9; times vary
• Tickets available at ticketmaster.com
• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont
always my birthday present. I fell in love with it,” he says. Starting at 13-years-old, Cody got involved with the event in every way possible — whether it was sweeping floors, cleaning trucks or driving the tractortrailers. His passion and hard work earned him a role as a mechanic for the show, eventually paving the way for him to become an official driver in 2012.
‘Easy come, easy go’ Queen-mania rocks on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. dynamic live performance showcasing signature four-part harmonies and intricate musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music. We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more.
Saturday Feb. 1, 8 p.m. $79.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
“From the atmosphere to the production to the people, it’s a big family and it’s a big family sport, everybody’s there to just have fun,” he adds.
Ten years later, Cody started driving the infamous Grave Digger — a 43 year global legend among monster trucks, sporting massive 66-inch tires.
“It’s just a big, bad machine,” Cody says.
Watch as these powerful trucks race for the fastest time, showcase their jaw-dropping skills with epic stunts — some of which are only on two wheels — in competitions of speed and skill. Also see the drivers unleash their trucks’ wild, untamed power in a thrilling freestyle showdown.
And of course, there’ll be plenty of monster-sized donuts to get heads-spinning as well.
This epic ride sports tombstones on its side “for the competitors that we’ve beaten and buried,” he explains.
Going head-to-head against Grave Digger are newcomers Plane Krazy and Krazy Train as well as a new fan favorite, Sparkle Smash, a giant blue-and-purple unicorn that’s sure to kick some butt.
Other trucks returning to claim victory are the always-popular Megalodon, Zombie, El Toro Loco, and Terminal Velocity.
right in the middle of the action, helping to
To make it even more exciting, the judges’ panel includes the entire audience. Fans are right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the event champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves. Everyone gets a say in which truck triumphs with glory and eventually moves on to July’s Monster Jam World Finals.
It’s truly an unforgettable family affair, involving generations of families since Monster Jam’s start in 1992.
“I met so many awesome fans from over the years, dedicated fans who’ll bring their grandfather, the dad, and now son, to an event. And the grandfather will be like, ‘Yeah, I remember bringing my son.’ Even though I’m not the driver that may have been [there] at that time, they’ll take a picture just to recreate that,” Cody says.
“It’s just an awesome experience among the families and the memories that they’re making.”
All of this from the best seat in UBS Arena, which is every seat according to Cody.
“I tell people that in an arena as compared to a stadium, stadiums are cool, but in an arena, there’s not a bad seat in the house.”
Start off the action early. Fans can get a closer look at the trucks and meet the drivers at the exclusive Monster Jam Pit Party — or get revved up prior to the show with sneak peaks, giveways and extra action at the Monster Jam Trackside Experience.
Before taking over the driver’s seat, Cody’s Monster Jam journey began sitting in the audience of Monster Jam events as a kid. Cody, from Williamsport, Md., began to follow the sport at age 8. As a lifelong fan, he knows the thrills it offers to both fan and participant.
Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment
Before taking over the driver’s seat, lifelong fan, he knows the thrills it offers to both
Top left - Sparkle Smash, among the newcomers, joins El Toro Loco and the other trucks in nailing vertical 2-wheel tricks, among other feats.
Music Director Adam Glaser’s South Shore Symphony Orchestra welcomes the New Year with a rousing concert, titled “Heritage and Memory, at its Madison Theatre home. The orchestra is joined by guitarist Tali Roth. Originally from Israel, now based in the New York City area, she’ll be playing the beloved Rodrigo’s Concieto de Aranjuez. The evening’s repertoire also includes Humperdinck’s Prelude to the opera Hansel and Gretel. The charming composition is known for its sweetness and nostalgia to this piece that catches you off guard. Another, Mary Watkins’ Soul of Remembrance is becoming a staple in the orchestra repertoire, and deservedly so, according to Glaser. The program’s second half is devoted to Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 in D major.
“Monster Jam used to come every year. It was
Top right - Monster trucks reach epic heights in the latest edition of Monster Jam. Grave Digger, with Matty Cody (bottom left) and other popular trucks thrill fans in their customized high-power vehicles.
Saturday, Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.
With his signature laid-back style, as showcased in his Netflix special Sweet & Juicy produced and directed by Ali Wong, comedian, actor, and writer, Sheng Wang brings his hilarious standup to the Paramount stage, Saturday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m.
Long-time comedian
Sheng Wang is truly coming into his own. Two decades of performing has taken him from doing stand-up for touristy audiences in New York unwilling to give an Asian American comedian the time of day to a successful Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy,” produced and directed by Ali Wong. Wang asks audiences to not only recognize the personhood of an Asian on stage but to find deep resonance with this person’s honest feelings. He mines comedy from the mundane, everyday parts of life — from the meditative ritual that is shopping at Costco to how to get maximum value from health insurance. Because he’s from Houston, Texas., Wang also speaks with a slight Southern drawl, giving a relaxed quality to his delivery.
He likens himself to “A Clown with Words.” Among his other credits, Wang was a featured standup on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and also wrote for the ABC show “Fresh Off the Boat.” Wang resides in L.A. and in his time off he enjoys exploring botanical gardens and discovering new ways to snack. $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Pick up free Hofstra Pride basketball tickets for games on Saturday, Feb. 8 vs. Stony Brook; Saturday, March 1 vs. North Carolina A&T, at Malverne Village Hall. Limit 5 per group, Malverne residents only. 90 Church St.
How much more of winter could we have? The annual Malverne Mel Groundhog Day ceremony takes place, Sunday, Feb. 2, 7 a.m., at Crossroads Farm at Grossmann’s, 480 Hempstead Ave., Malverne.
Long Island Choral Society, under the Direction of Michael C. Haigler, holds auditions for new members for the final concert of their 96th Season. Auditions are by appointment only and continue, Mondays, Feb. 3 and 10, at Garden City Community Church. The Berlioz Requiem is a piece known for its power and beauty that offers a rare musical performance opportunity. If you love to sing consider auditioning to be part of this treasured Long Island tradition. Those interested can schedule an audition by calling (516) 652-6878 or via e-mail at audition.info@lics.org.
245 Stewart Ave., Garden City.
Winter in the woods
Explore Sands Point Preserve in winter, with environmental educator Hildur Palsdottir, Saturday, Feb. 1, 10-11:30 a.m. She will engage participants ill engage audiences in handson nature discovery activities encompassing the preserve’s unique physical features and wildlife.
Conservation issues are also discussed on the walk through the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. $15 ($10 members), $5 children. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.
Visit Long Island Children’s Museum and share in some Groundhog Day fun, Saturday, Feb. 1, noon-2 p.m. Join in on the forecasting festivities and make a groundhog to take home, at the drop-in program. Will he emerge from his burrow and see his shadow or not? For ages 3 and up. Free with admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
New York State Supreme Court Judge Bruce Cozzens last week denied a request by the Long Island Roller Rebels, a women’s recreational roller derby league, to temporarily block a Nassau County law that restricts sports teams from using county facilities based on biological sex.
The Roller Rebels argued that Local Law 121-24 discriminates against transgender women by preventing them from participating in women’s sports. The league sought a preliminary injunction to stop the law’s enforcement while its lawsuit challenging the law continues.
The Long Island Roller Rebels are members of the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association, which “welcomes all transgender women, intersex women, and gender expansive women to participate in its member leagues. The sex assigned at birth of any and all WFTDA participants is considered confidential and private,” according to court documents.
“I’m very happy that … Cozzens ruled that Nassau County’s local law banning biological males from playing on female sports teams is constitutional and that we did abide by the law,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. “I’m gratified that we were the first in America to do it, and I think we set the tone for the rest of the nation.”
In a 12-6 vote along party lines, the County Legislature passed a bill on June 24 that bans individuals who were born male from taking part in women’s sports and on county-run facilities, regardless of their gender identity.
The county claimed the law was enacted to ensure fairness and safety in sports for biological women, and
argued that federal Title IX regulations protecting women’s sports support its position.
The court ruled that the Roller Rebels failed to prove that the law discriminates against transgender individuals under the state’s Human Rights Law or Civil Rights Law. Cozzens noted that the law does not ban transgender people from participating in sports, but requires leagues to designate teams as male, female or co-ed.
In his decision, he emphasized the safety concerns and physical differences between biological men and women, particularly in contact sports like roller derby. The judge also highlighted the county’s responsibility to use public facilities in ways that serve the majority of taxpayers.
“The power differential between adult individuals
who are born male and those born female is substantial and therefore may be more dangerous,” Cozzens’s decision read. “This would create additional risk to the individual and potential liability, creating costs to the municipality. The municipality is not obligated to provide a recreational setting for each and every individual residing within its confines.”
“As we’ve said all along, it’s just common sense,” Blakeman said. “Biological males should not play in female sports. They have a competitive advantage. It’s unfair, and it’s also unsafe.”
The ruling follows an executive order signed by President Trump on Jan. 20 that eliminated protections for transgender individuals, stating that the federal government would define sex strictly as male or female.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Nassau, U.S. Bank, National Association as Legal Title Trustee for Truman 2016 SC6 Title Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Sheikh S. Hossain
A/K/A Sheikh Hossain
A/K/A Sheikh N. Hossain, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 13, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 13, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 771 Maple Place, West Hempstead, NY 11552. 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, Section 35, Block 269 and Lot 47. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,113,780.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610562/2020.
Heather D. Crosley, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 193351-1 150873
Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucount yny.gov/526/CountyTreasurer
Should the Treasurer determine that an inperson auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February 2025 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.
A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucount yny.gov/527/Annual-TaxLien-Sale
the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.
The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act(FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et.seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC) receivership.
has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.
Furthermore, as to the bidding,
deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.
Dated: January 23, 2025
THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER
Mineola, New York 151098
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY
TREASURER’S
SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 18th, 2025, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 13th, 2025 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code.
A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 06th, 2025. Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audiotape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.
Dated: January 23, 2025
THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, NewYork
TERMS OF SALE
Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over
The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.
The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk. The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he
1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.
2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.
3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.
4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
HSBC Bank USA, N.A., as Indenture Trustee for the registered Noteholders of Renaissance Home Equity Loan Trust 2007-1, Plaintiff AGAINST
Pauline E. Johnson; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 21, 2020 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 25, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 301 Coventry Road North, 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, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 35 Block 515 Lot 30. Approximate amount of judgment $616,322.45 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 004255/2014. 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.”
Ellen Durst, 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: January 10, 2025 151104
LEGAL NOTICE
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 607868/2024 MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC Plaintiff, vs PHILIP LAROCCA, JR. AKA PHILIP LA ROCCA, JR., RAYMOND H. SZOSTAK, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SZOSTAK, JO ANN, CAROL M WOEHR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SZOSTAK, JO ANN, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JO ANN SZOSTAK IF LIVING,
AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, NASSAU COUNTY CLERK “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 80 Lexington Avenue Malverne, NY 11565 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney
for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Jo Ann Szostak Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Tenth day of December, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Frances LaRocca AKA Frances La Rocca (who died on May 25, 2023, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York), Philip LaRocca AKA Philip La Rocca (who died on November 7, 2023, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York), Philip LaRocca, Jr. AKA Philip La Rocca, Jr. and Jo Ann Szostak (who died on August 27, 2020, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) dated the November 18, 2005, to secure the sum of $469,342.50 and recorded at Book M29941, Page 833 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on January 10, 2006. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 15, 2009 and recorded on November 16, 2009, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M34349, Page 993. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by a corrective assignment executed September 29, 2021 and recorded on March 9, 2022, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M VI 46421, Page 854. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 22, 2023 and recorded on January 8, 2024, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M VI 47394, Page 296. The property in question is described as follows: 80 Lexington Avenue, Malverne, NY 11565 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and
protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: January 13, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 84206 151075
LEGAL NOTICE Request for Proposals BOARD OF EDUCATION WEST HEMPSTEAD UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT PUBLIC NOTICE TO INTERESTED ENERGY SERVICE COMPANIES: is hereby given for Request for Proposals for a District-Wide Energy Performance Contract for Energy Efficient Upgrades. Proposals will be received by the School District on April 3, 2025 11:00 AM prevailing time in the Business Office, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York 11552. The Request for Proposals may be examined at the Office of the Engineer, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects & Engineers P.C., 244 East Main Street, Patchogue, NY 11772 (631) 475-0349, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday beginning on January 30, 2025. A pre-proposal meeting regarding the proposal requirements will be held on February 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM in the Business Office, 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, New York 11552.The District reserves the right to accept this Proposal by item or as a whole, or at its discretion, reject any or all Proposals and to readvertise for new Proposals if in its opinion the best interest of the District is promoted. The District also reserves the right to waive any informality in any Proposal and to change the quantity or delete any item from the Proposal. Any Proposal submitted cannot be withdrawn for forty-five (45)days subsequent to the date of the RFP due date.
Dated: January 30, 2025 BY THE ORDER OF: THE BOARD OF EDUCATION WEST HEMPSTEAD UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT 151263
ous pictures taken,” Canzoneri said. “I read a proclamation and then the trainer in charge of the groundhog picked up the groundhog and brought him close to me. It was a very confidential conversation that I had with the groundhog, and his voice was quite weak, but he finally revealed to me what the prognostication was going to be for the remainder of the winter.”
As the legend goes, if the groundhog sees his shadow after emerging from its burrow, six more weeks of wintry weather will follow.
The event was a hit with the local community and the public, receiving major attention in the local press.
“This was sort of like a novelty,” Canzoneri added, “not in competition, but to supplement the groundhog festivities that always came out of Pennsylvania.”
This was sort of like a novelty.
JOSEPH CANZONERI
Former mayor of Malverne
Since Malverne’s first Groundhog Day celebration in 1996, the event has changed in many ways. In 2003, Mel made his prognosis alongside his wife, Malverne Melissa. In 2008, the couple’s child, also named Malverne Mel, took over the responsibilities of chief weather prognosticator.
In 2011, Mel “phoned” in his prognosis to the mayor due to an ice storm that cancelled the outdoor ceremony. In 2017, the event moved from Chester A. Reese Veterans Memorial Park to Crossroads Farm at Grossmann’s.
“By moving it to the farm, we’ve made a conscious effort to bring some educational aspect into this and really make the farm a centerpiece of the Groundhog Day,” current Mayor Timothy Sullivan said.
With each subsequent mayor, the event gained something new — from a petting zoo, to photo ops with Mel himself, screenings of the 1993 film “Groundhog Day” at the Malverne Cinema, to a live woodcarving demonstration of Malverne Mel at Village Hall, now on permanent display in village hall.
“It’s amazing that even at 7 a.m., prior to kids going to school, everyone makes an effort to join us for Groundhog Day, every year,” Sullivan said. “And it’s not only the celebration of the time of year, but everything that we do in this village.”
This year’s gathering will take place on Sunday, Feb. 2, beginning at 7 a.m. at Crossroads Farm, 480 Hempstead Ave. In addition to the ceremony, the event will feature music by the Banjo Rascals, photos with Mel and hot chocolate, and groundhog-themed cookies and cupcakes will be sold.
Winners from the annual Malverne Mel poster contest will be announced. Poster entries were due at Malverne Village Hall by Jan. 24.
“It was a lot of fun doing it, and it’s something I’m proud that I had a part of,” Canzoneri said of the annual celebration. “I hope it continues for many, many years.”
the Village of malverne’s first groundhog day celebration took place on feb. 2, 1996. at the ceremony, malverne mel was joined by, from left, former mayor Joseph Canzoneri, former County Legislator tom alfano, former town Supervisor anthony Santino, former County Legislator Vincent muscarella and former deputy mayor gail Wakefield.
The days might be cold now, but it’s a good time to start planning for the warmer weather and another boating season by registering now for safe boating classes through the Town of Hempstead.
The first course of 2025 is designed for ages 10 to 18 and will take place over two sessions at the Department of Conservation and Waterways, 1401 Lido Blvd., Point Lookout.
■ Saturday, Feb. 1: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
■ Saturday, Feb. 8: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participants must attend both sessions to receive the boating safety certificate. The town’s bay constables will lead the classes.
To register for the February class or inquire about future courses, contact the Bay Constables at (516) 897-4100.
–Jeffrey Bessen
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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
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Q. We want a new boiler and to convert to gas, because oil costs keep rising. How safe are a gas boiler, water heater and stove? We are told it could be very expensive to run a gas line to our home if there isn’t one on the street. We have spoken to a plumber who is looking into this for us, but is this really going to be economical, since we’re retired and just trying to find ways to reduce living costs?
A. Gas is generally safe when the lines are left alone where installed, and not tampered with. We only read or hear news about a gas explosion when something out of the ordinary happens. Years ago, a gas explosion on Long Island turned out to have been caused by thieves who ripped the gas stove out of an empty home, leaving the open gas line spewing gas to the whole house until a spark from the boiler ignited the gas and blew the home up. This is rare, and was caused by ignorance.
You can avoid this by being cautious, and hiring professionals to handle gas appliances. With several steps to convert from oil to gas, you, or your plumber, must verify that gas lines are available on your street. I remember converting to gas, contacting the gas company and, after a week, calling them back and learning that there was no gas, and that the closest location was a block away, on the other side of a busy county road. I was also told that I would have to go door to door to speak to neighbors about converting to gas so that it would be worth it for the gas company to extend the street line into our neighborhood. In other words, the gas company wanted me to market their product if I wanted it for myself.
I did manage to find others around me who were interested in converting. Then we all waited, and wouldn’t you know it, the neighbors started calling me to find out when the gas lines were going to be installed. That prompted me to do what you may also have to do: keep calling. There were issues with getting approvals for the road opening of a county road, which takes months, permits for the gas conversion by the plumber, location of other utilities, oil and tank removal after gas was in.
Plan for summer installation, when the boiler is least needed. As for the expense, it doesn’t pay to buy a less expensive boiler if it’s less efficient, because its operating cost — usually based on how much heat is derived per unit of fuel consumed — will be much more than the money saved at the outset. Incidentally, oil fuel is slightly more efficient than gas, but the cost increases are based on a less stable spot market. Although gas tends to remain more price-stable, for some unknown reason, it tends to increase in cost concurrent with oil increases. Good luck!
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As we embark on the 2025 legislative session, the challenges facing New York have never been more evident. Across the state, families are grappling with the rising cost of living, businesses are struggling under the weight of strict regulations, and public safety concerns remain at the forefront of many New Yorkers’ minds. Additionally, illegal immigration continues to place a significant fiscal burden on our communities, straining resources and compounding these challenges.
In this pivotal moment, it is imperative that we seize the opportunity to chart a course toward meaningful reform and lasting prosperity.
Recently, Gov. Kathy Hochul outlined her agenda in her State of the State address, as well as in her proposed $252 billion budget. While I commend her for acknowledging issues like affordable child care, youth mental health and free school meals — issues I have helped champion since taking office — I remain concerned about the increased level of spending and the direction of the governor’s proposals. They must be more than
italking points; they require strategic investments and implementation to yield tangible results for our communities.
For example, addressing youth mental health is an area in which bipartisan consensus is possible. I have introduced legislation to provide funding for schools to hire mental health service professionals, which would ensure that students could more easily access these services, thereby increasing the likelihood that they would seek help when they need it. Likewise, making sure that children receive free school meals isn’t just a moral imperative, but a practical one, because hunger directly impacts educational outcomes. I will work to ensure that these vital initiatives are not overlooked in the upcoming budget negotiations.
Congestion pricing remains a glaring example of misplaced priorities.
Hochul’s agenda is more notable for what it omits. It has been nearly a decade since the Senate Republican conference passed the 2016 middle class tax cuts, which provided much-needed relief to millions of New Yorkers, and I commend the governor for proposing to build on those tax cuts. But while cutting taxes and sending out refund checks is great, those efforts are negated when other proposals increase people’s expenses.
Congestion pricing, in particular, remains a glaring example of misplaced
priorities. It unfairly targets hardworking New Yorkers like first responders and teachers who rely on their vehicles to commute to work and contribute to our economy. While Hochul may frame short-term delays or reductions in toll rates as “savings,” they do nothing to mitigate the long-term financial burden this policy will impose. Instead of imposing new taxes on struggling families, we should focus on cutting costs and empowering local communities to make decisions about their own futures.
New Yorkers have endured enough of the chaos caused by cashless bail laws that handcuff judges and empower criminals. Blaming the judiciary for the consequences of these policies only serves as a distraction from Albany’s failures. True reform starts with restoring judicial discretion and allowing judges to consider the danger posed by defendants when setting bail, which my bill, S.236, would accomplish.
Short-term solutions, like increased police presence on subways, may offer some temporary relief, but fail to address the long-term issues of public safety to prevent crimes from occurring. We need to prioritize lasting reforms that protect families, neighborhoods and commuters
across the state.
One of the most pressing challenges New York faces is the ongoing influx of illegal migrants and the significant fiscal burden it puts on the state. With taxpayer dollars stretched thin, the financial strain of providing housing, health care and education to migrants diverts critical resources away from hardworking New Yorkers, the ones who are covering these additional costs.
Local communities, particularly here on Long Island, are bearing the brunt of this crisis, as their municipal budgets are overwhelmed and their essential services are jeopardized. Schools, for example, are facing increased costs to meet higher demand for English as a New Language services. Albany must prioritize the needs of its residents by addressing these issues head-on and advocating for federal accountability to secure our borders and reduce the financial impact on our state.
As a member of the State Senate, my mission is clear: to fight for policies that make life more affordable, ensure public safety, and foster economic growth for Long Island and all of New York. I will continue to advocate for initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our residents, hold Albany accountable, and work toward a stronger, more prosperous future for our state.
Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.
am a minority in so many ways that I never realized I’m part of a shrinking population of people who read books for fun. We read because we want to. We read because, for some of us, there’s no better way to spend our time. We read because there’s no other human experience that can transport us to another time and place, completely immersing us in the joys and tribulations of people who are the invention of a writer’s mind.
I’ve known for some time that young people aren’t choosing to read books when the competition is TV or social media. I don’t need studies to tell me that, head to head, when it’s reading vs. streaming, reading loses with most teens most of the time.
The Atlantic recently ran a piece by Rose Horowitch revealing that at some of the country’s “elite” colleges, many students are neither willing nor able to read the books they’re assigned for classes. They say they just can’t do it — can’t concentrate for so long, can’t stay with a narrative. Classes that once required some 10
books for the year now assign “excerpts.”
The students aren’t failing to perform. We have failed in preparing them to read properly.
When Horowitch investigated further, she discovered that the problem begins in high school. In recent years, with the ascendance of social media and smartphones, there has been a parallel decline in reading. More disturbing, many teachers are accommodating the change by dumbing down the curriculum, assigning summaries or chapters instead of whole books.
Damn good is the answer. Plot summary, excellent. Discussion of themes, better than I could do. Analysis of language, good enough.
A re parents of young kids reading to them, or are they, too,distracted by phones?
Last week I began teaching a book group for adults. We do a book a week for eight weeks; they’ve had the syllabus since May, so there has been ample time to prepare. These folks are in the class for the pure joy and intellectual stretch of abandoning themselves to a narrative imagined by someone else.
I realize that high school and college kids can probably get by with ChatGPT to find summaries and analyses of the books they’re assigned in class. So, after I had reread the first book for my class and completed my notes, I went to ChatGPT to see what AI could do with the assignment.
But what is missing entirely is any discussion of the emotional component of reading. The summaries can inform you, but they can’t make you feel. I’m remembering reading “Sophie’s Choice” in 1982, my heart twisted around the character as she chose which of her children would live. I’m talking about reading “Beloved” as a teen and perceiving racism in a profoundly new way. When I discovered “Lonesome Dove,” I disappeared for days into the Old West, way past the clichés of cowboys and cattle drives.
This isn’t just a woe-is-me essay. There’s an answer to the problem, and it is to limit or ban smartphone use and social media for children and young teenagers. We limited cigarette smoking and we demanded seat belts. Enlightened and committed leaders can do this. Informed parents can do this.
Kids read before they could Google. They picked up books before they could stream. Living in a world where high
school and college students don’t or can’t find the intellectual bandwidth to read a book is tragic for them personally and for our country. I wonder if parents of young children are regularly reading to them and introducing books, or if they, too, are distracted by phones.
Children who don’t read books grow up to be adults who don’t read, and never learn the subtleties of language and the possibilities of lives and worlds other than their own.
As we begin a new year, here are the books that I’m teaching. Maybe you’ll read one or two. If you do, write to me and we can share our impressions.
“Migrations,” by Charlotte McConaughy; “A Portrait of Dorian Grey,” by Oscar Wilde; “Something I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You,” by Alice Munro; “The Matrix,” by Lauren Groff; “Slow Horses,” by Mick Herron; “The Wren, the Wren,” by Anne Enright; “A Day in the Life of Abed Salama,” by Nathan Thrall; “Of Mice and Men,” by John Steinbeck. We worry about the rise of book banning in today’s America. Remember the horrific dystopia of “1984”? The irony is that book banning and book burning aren’t necessary in a culture that doesn’t read books.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
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Cliff
Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. They are the corner stores, familyowned restaurants, and local service providers that fuel our neighborhoods, create jobs, and drive economic growth. Yet these vital businesses often face significant challenges in reaching new customers and growing their operations in an increasingly competitive economy.
With the official introduction in the New York State Legislature of the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act, small businesses across the state might gain a powerful new tool next year to help sustain their success and maximize the reach of their marketing dollars. Sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblywoman Jen Lunsford, the legislation would establish a tax credit for small businesses that advertise in local media outlets — from print and digital to television and radio. By making advertising more affordable, the LOCAL Act would empower small businesses to reach their target audiences while also supporting the essential work of the same media outlets that provide our communities with local journalism.
The LOCAL Act focuses on supporting minority-, woman- and veteranowned businesses, as well as any businesses with 10 or fewer employees. For
‘Excellent reporting’ on sex trafficking
To the Editor:
Re “Gang member sentenced for sex trafficking minors” in last week’s issue: Like many others, I have a sense of relief that Joshua Lampley-Reid was finally given an appropriate sentence for the heinous crimes to which he pleaded guilty back in 2022.
I thank Madison Gusler for her excellent reporting, and for bringing awareness to a dangerous crime.
When I watch crime dramas on Netflix, there is usually a phone number on the screen at the end of the program, alerting viewers in need of help to call for assistance. So please allow me to contribute something that may be of value to Herald readers and/or their acquaintances.
The toll-free number to report sex trafficking, and/or to get help, is the National Human Trafficking Hotline, a 24/7 confidential, bilingual phone line, at (888) 373-7888.
many of these entrepreneurs, the ability to advertise affordably in trusted, community-driven platforms like local newspapers would be a game-changer. Local media outlets are well positioned to connect businesses with their neighbors — customers who are eager to shop locally and uplift their communities.
This legislation couldn’t come at a better time. Small businesses are still navigating the economic aftershocks of the pandemic, inflationary pressures, and competition from large corporations with massive marketing budgets. The LOCAL Act would help level the playing field, giving your favorite momand-pop store a way to increase visibility without sacrificing their scarce financial resources.
When our small businesses thrive, so do our communities. Small businesses employ your neighbors, sponsor your kids’ Little League team, and offer a convenient destination for a night out with your spouse. These businesses are not only economic drivers, but also cornerstones of community identity.
The benefits of the LOCAL Act would extend beyond businesses. Local media outlets, too, are vital to communities, because they produce the journalism that keeps people informed about school board meetings, neighborhood crime, church bake sales and the
most recent newlyweds — and everything in between. Unfortunately, declining advertising revenues have jeopardized the financial sustainability of many of these media outlets, and small newsrooms have been shuttering across the state. By encouraging small businesses to advertise locally, the LOCAL Act would helps these outlets continue their essential work of championing their communities.
This dual benefit — supporting both small businesses and local journalism — has already garnered strong support from business groups, community leaders, and the 200-plus local newspapers comprising the Empire State Local News Coalition — including the Heralds. It’s a win-win solution that strengthens the backbone of our local economy while fostering a unified, informed citizenry.
The LOCAL Act marks a bold step forward in tackling the interconnected challenges our communities are facing today. By working together to implement and embrace this program, we can build stronger businesses, sustain vital journalism, and ensure the prosperity of communities across New York for years to come.
We support this smart legislation. Tell your elected leaders in Albany to include the LOCAL Act in the final fiscal year 2026 state budget.
Like so many others, I have watched the California wildfires unfold with a mix of horror and awe.
For those unfamiliar with the scale of destruction, the fires that began igniting near Los Angeles in early January have scorched over 40,000 acres, claimed at least 27 lives, injured more than 20 people and destroyed over 15,000 structures.
As I followed news reports, watched television coverage and scrolled through social media during the first week of the fires, one message stood out: Nearly everyone had California and its residents in their thoughts and prayers. Relief efforts and fundraisers quickly sprang into action as people rallied to help and offer support wherever it was needed. It is in our nature as humans to want to help. Yet to my dismay, almost as soon as the relief efforts began, conspiracies started surfacing. And not to be punny, but they spread like, well, wildfire. On my social media feeds, I occasionally come across videos from a popular
To the Editor:
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s recent state budget proposal fails to adequately address New York’s energy infrastructure. The proposal does not mention nuclear power, even though it is the state’s best energy opportunity. Equally troubling is the omission of the Empire State Wind project, a once-central component of New York’s energy goal of generating net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. If the governor recognizes that wind energy faces significant public opposition, especially on Long Island, then it’s time to focus on funding nuclear energy projects instead.
Nuclear power is the most efficient form of renewable energy, generating massive amounts of electricity with a much smaller land footprint than wind or solar. This is best demonstrated by the Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant, which never went online. The plant’s site now houses wind turbines that produce 1/35,000th of the energy the nuclear plant would have generated. While there were justifiable con-
account called “Gubba Homestead.” The account owner, a farmer, often starts her videos with the tagline, “I’m a conspiracy theorist . . .” From there she dives into various claims, many of which can be debunked by science. The videos are clickbait-like in their nature, designed to provoke reactions or outrage in the comments — an approach that boosts views and amplifies the videos’ spread.
tIt’s a fascinating, albeit troubling, method of online content creation, and I wasn’t surprised when, about a week after the fires began, she appeared on my feed once again, starting with the familiar line, “Call me a conspiracy theorist, but . . .”
atures in 2024 were dubbed “abnormally hot” by scientists at the University of California — which should surprise no one. And it’s not just the West Coast that has been affected by fires. Think about what occurred just a few months ago in upstate New York.
heories started surfacing almost as soon as the relief efforts began in L.A.
She went on to claim that there was no way the L.A. wildfires could have been caused by climate change, offering harmful commentary that did nothing to help anyone during a time of tragedy. Without diving too deep, I’ll tell you this: Climate scientists have indicated that the likelihood of fire events has increased by 31 to 66 percent since 1950, due to intense periods of strong rainfall, which create more vegetation, followed by periods of extreme drought, which dries out that vegetation. Global temper-
cerns about building a reactor downstate, Hochul should now look to fund nuclear reactors upstate that would create electricity for downstate communities.
The closure of the Indian Point Energy Center in 2021 underscores the urgency of building a better energy grid for New York. This move forced downstate New York to increase its reliance on fossil fuels, driving up emissions and worsening air pollution. Communities already struggling with environmental and health inequities continue to bear the brunt of these decisions.
Nuclear power is resurging across the country. Tech companies such as Microsoft and Meta are restarting nuclear reactors because they recognize that they are the most effective way to fuel their operations sustainably. It’s time for New York to follow suit. Governor Hochul should take bold action to fund nuclear energy projects, ensuring that downstate residents have access to renewable power.
MICHAEL SINGER Long Beach
and inadequate infrastructure, and distracts from the stories of resilience and heroism that deserve to be heard.
Climate change is real, and it’s here. People can ignore the truth, but there’s no place in this conversation for conspiracies.
At the core of American values lies the principle of free speech. Thoughtful questioning and theorizing have driven breakthroughs once deemed impossible. Scientific discoveries have emerged, and transformative social change has been achieved, thanks to people who challenged the status quo — doing so with ethical integrity and moral purpose.
What’s unfolding across social media, as Californians work to rebuild their lives, is neither ethical nor moral. Those whose lives have been upended don’t need “influencers” spreading baseless claims or (again, sorry) fanning the flames of conspiracy.
This behavior exploits tragedy for attention, shifting the focus away from the victims and the real issues at hand. It undermines efforts to address the underlying causes, like climate change
The conspiracy phenomenon isn’t unique to the California fires. From hurricanes to pandemics to mass shootings, misinformation and conspiracy theories seem to surface in the wake of nearly every major tragedy. Under the guise of seeking the “truth,” sensationalized theories simply capitalize on fear, confusion and distrust, and accomplish nothing.
To complicate things, Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, announced a few weeks ago that it was scrapping its fact-checking program, which flagged possible misinformation — a move that will just keep conspiracies burning, spreading and infiltrating the minds of many.
I’m not suggesting that we stop questioning or trying to make sense of the world around us, but as always, we must remain mindful. Consider the weight of your words and actions, and the harm that conspiracies can inflict. There’s a time and place for questions, based on the truth. That’s how we rebuild and move forward. But in the aftermath of tragedy, we can’t afford to make room for ignorance.
Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? Jvallone@liherald.com.
