Massapequa Herald 01_22_2025

HERALD Massapequa

Carolyn James/Herald

Amityville School Superintendent Dr. Gina Talbert outlines options for Northeast School at community forum.

Residents urge Amityville educators to keep Northeast Elementary open

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

About 100 residents gathered at a community forum last week to discuss the future of Northeast Elementary School, which the Amityville School District is considering closing.

The meeting, led by the school’s superintendent, Dr. Gina Talbert, gave attendees the chance to weigh in on the options for the school, with Talbert presenting a detailed analysis of the pros and cons, financial impacts, and broader challenges facing the district.

Residents also participated in small focus groups to explore the district’s options and offer input. By the end of the evening, the consensus was clear: North -

east Elementary holds significant educational, social, and historical value to the community and should remain open.

However, keeping the building open would come with financial challenges. The district has to replace a $2 million grant it received last year from NYS Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean Pierre after closing a $3.5 million budget gap from last year that led to significant staff cuts.

In addition, the forum coincided with a letter sent by the Town of Babylon to all Amityville school district taxpayers over what it called “the sudden and significant rise” in school property taxes for Amityville and Farmingdale, both of which serve residents in both Nassau and Suffolk.

MPK Village Board weighing 2 new community events

By MIKE POLANSKI

Correspondent

At its public work session on Monday evening, Jan. 13, the Massapequa Park Village Board discussed the possibility of hosting two new community events: a New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and a Groundhog Day celebration.

The board explored the idea of holding these events in front of Village Hall, noting that both could be staged without the need to close streets or disrupt local businesses along Park Boulevard.

After the meeting, Mayor Dan Pearl confirmed that the village was considering hosting these events but emphasized that further research on required resources and logistics would be necessary.

“We are still discussing the possibility of doing these events in 2026,” Pearl said. “However, we need to look into the items needed and the logistics before moving forward.”

Trustee Christine Wiss expressed her support for both events as communitybuilding activities but pointed out that no final decision had been made for 2026.

“We have not committed to 2026 yet; strategic planning is always key to a successful event,” Wiss said. “But I’m in favor of both events as ways to bring the community together.”

Deputy Mayor Tina Schiaffino agreed with Pearl and Wiss on the importance of thorough planning but added that discussions like the one on Jan. 13 are crucial for getting the process started.

“These types of conversations are how things get started,” Schiaffino said. “It’s a step in the right direction.”

In recent years, the village has expanded its public events, including the introduction of “Park After Dark” in 2021. This seasonal event, held on select summer evenings, offers residents the chance to walk, shop, dine, visit food trucks, and enjoy live music in the heart of the village.

Other Village Business

The Village Administrator was authorized to advertise for Grievance Day, during which residents can voice concerns about property

Hablamos Español

Residents urge Amityville educators: keep Northeast Elementary

CONTINUED

FROM COVER

According to the town, the increase was caused by the state freezing Nassau County’s equalization rate while decreasing Babylon’s. The estimated impact for Suffolk is a $3 million increase, according to the town, which has initiated a lawsuit calling the disproportionate levy “entirely unacceptable” and saying the town is “aggressively challenging the state’s handling of the equalization rates and tax apportionment.”

One potential cost-saving measure for the district that was discussed at the forum would be to limit the number of students accepted into the Universal Pre-K program housed at Northeast. The district will receive a $586,000 grant for the program, but 10 percent must be outsourced. The remaining funds would cover the cost of 85 students maximum. This year, the program accepted 126 students, adding pressure on the general budget.

The district has not yet specified the savings from closing the building, but it has acknowledged additional expenses, including the cost of extra busing for Pre-K students who would be relocated to different schools in the district, along with maintenance and security among other costs.

“We have strong educational leaders who will collaborate with any transition,” Talbert told the group. “We are

in the middle of budget season and working to ensure that we work with personnel and resources in advance. We must finalize this decision before adopting our budget.”

Supporters of keeping Northeast open pointed to several concerns, including the additional transportation costs and the social impact on the community.

“Most of us can remember the disruption to our education in the ‘60s when busing was implemented,” said resident Deborah Payton-Jones. “Are we going back to that?” she asked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a “sense of neighborhood” in the community.

“This has been a polling site for the community for years, and closing it would shift everyone somewhere else,” said Andrea Belche. “It is centrally located, and residents walk here to vote.” Belche also highlighted the strong relationships between parents and staff at Northeast. “It gives them an opportunity to meet with and speak to someone, to build a school community and create a bond between children, parents, and the school,” she said.

Emotional testimony also reflected the school’s historical significance. Former student Jesus Barrios, who attended Northeast, spoke passionately about the importance of the building in

connecting past and present students. “I don’t want to see it closed,” he said, his voice breaking. Barrios, who was recently accepted to Harvard, received a standing ovation from the crowd.

Other concerns raised included how the district would maintain the building if it were closed and the possibility of using portables behind Northwest Elementary, which would require zoning approval, often difficult to get. Residents also worried about the potential for loitering, vandalism, and other illegal activities if the building were abandoned.

“Residents want to be heard, and they need to have their voices counted,” said School Board Trustee Wendy Canestro.

School Board President Lisa Johnson echoed that sentiment, noting that forums like this allow residents to voice their opinions, which makes it easier to accept difficult decisions. “When a decision is made and you have had a chance to be a part of that decision-making process, it is easier to accept whether you agree with it or not,” she said.

“It is important that we talk to one another,” Talbert added. “We all want to provide the same thing: the highest quality of learning for the next generation of scholars, as best as we can.”

In expressing their opinions, residents spoke about the legacy of the school, which has served the community for generations.

MPK board weighing 2 new community events

CONTINUED FROM COVER

assessments. This year, Grievance Day will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 18, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Village Hall, 151 Front Street.

The Village Administrator was also authorized to post the Notice of Completion of the Tentative Annual Assessment Roll for the Tax Year 2025. The roll will be available for inspection at Village Hall and on the

village website from Feb. 3 to Feb. 18. • The board designated Village Hall as the polling place for the upcoming Village Election on March 18.

The West Islip High School Class of 1975 will be holding a class reunion July 19, 2025 at Captain Bill’s restaurant in Bay Shore. For details, visit/join the organization’s Facebook page: West Islip High School Class of 1975 Or call 516-456-3207 and leave a message.

Art League of Long Island celebrating 70 years of artistic excellence and community impact

The Art League of Long Island (ALLI), a cornerstone of the Long Island arts community, will be celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2025.

Since its founding in 1955, the league has remained steadfast in its mission to provide high-quality visual arts education, foster creativity, and build connections through the arts. This milestone celebrates a legacy of resilience, innovation, and dedication to enriching lives through the visual arts.

From its early beginnings in a YMCA to a small schoolhouse and now its current purpose-built facility constructed in the early 2000s, ALLI has evolved in name and location, adapting to meet the needs of the community it serves. Over the decades, the organization has weathered economic recessions, a global pandemic, and natural disasters, emerging stronger and more committed to its mission.

“Reaching our 70th anniversary is a testament to the incredible support of our members, students, staff, and the Long Island community,” said Marianne Della Croce, executive director of the Art League of Long Island. “It’s an

opportunity to reflect on the challenges we’ve overcome, celebrate our accomplishments, and look forward to a bright future of creativity and collaboration.”

Celebratory Events and Initiatives

The Art League of Long Island has an exciting lineup of events planned throughout 2025 to honor the milestone:

• 1970s-Themed Workshops: Dive into the past with workshops inspired by the vibrant art and culture of the 1970s, celebrating the era when ALLI was firmly establishing itself as a creative hub.

• Gala in May: A spectacular gala event that celebrates the artwork of one of the Art League of Long Island’s most tenured instructors, David Peikon, in hopes of bringing together artists, supporters, and community members to promote continued support for the arts.

• Art Therapy Retreat in March: A unique initiative blending art and mindfulness to highlight the therapeutic power of creativity. Participants will have the opportunity to create, stretch, breathe and reflect.

• Backyard Zen Garden Project: In partnership with local Girl Scout troops, ALLI’s backyard will be transformed into

a tranquil zen area, fostering a serene space for relaxation and inspiration, a place to unplug from digital devices and become inspired by the world around us.

A Legacy of Excellence

Over its 70 years, the Art League of Long Island has reached countless lives through:

• A wide range of art classes for all ages (from 5-105) and skill levels (from beginners to the masters).

• Specialized programs such as “Arts in Education” for local schools and professional development for educators.

• Exhibitions showcasing local and national artists, providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.

• Flexible event spaces that support local businesses and community activities.

As it celebrates this milestone, the Art League of Long Island remains committed to innovation, diversity and growth, ensuring its programs and facilities con-

tinue to inspire and empower future generations of artists.

The larger Long Island community is invited to join thecelebration and to continue supporting ALLI as they advance their mission to foster creativity and connection through the arts.

The Art League of Long Island is a nonprofit visual arts organization dedicated to enhancing Long Island’s cultural landscape. Founded in 1955, the Art League of Long Island provides a comprehensive calendar of art classes, exhibitions, and events that foster artistic growth and community engagement. For more information, visit www.artleagueli.org.

The Art League of Long Island is at 107 Deer Park Rd., Dix Hills. They can be reached by phone at 631-462-5400 or by going online to atischler@artleagueli.org

The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department and other law enforcement and fire agencies.

THEFTS REPORTED

South Farmingdale: A vehicle owner reported on Dec. 28 that someone had removed the front driver’s side tire and rim from her vehicle parked on Birch Lane. The theft was discovered shortly after 9 a.m.

Farmingdale: A representative from CVS Pharmacy at 450 Main St. reported on Jan. 8 that an unknown male had taken several items from the

store shelves and left without paying. The theft occurred around 4:35 p.m.

A Sony SM5 speaker and a set of headphones were stolen from Blink Fitness at 450 Main St. on Jan. 10. The theft was reported at 4:45 p.m. that day.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Krystal Krill, 40, of Deer Park Eric Brooks, 60, of Valley Stream; David Jeune, 23, of Uniondale.

Petit Larceny: Roberto Raul Zevallos Landa, 35, of Brentwood; Frank Darrigo, 29, of Lindenhurst.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Artists at work in ALLI event

ALLI building in Dix Hills

Saladino, LaMarca invite couples to renew their vows on Valentine’s Day

Special event to feature reading of America’s First Valentine

Oyster Bay Town officials invite residents to renew their wedding vows at a special ceremony on Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14, at Oyster Bay Town Hall.

Co-sponsored by Raynham Hall Museum, the event will include a reading of America’s First Valentine, which was written on February 14, 1779 in Oyster Bay. The special ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. and will include light refreshments for all guests.

The story of America’s first Valentine is a proud piece of Oyster Bay history and dates to the time of the Revolutionary War, when British troops occupied Long Island homes.

During the height of that war, love improbably blossomed between Lt. Col Simcoe and a young patriot named Sally Townsend as the Townsend property served as a headquarters for a regiment of 300 British troops. Lt. Col. Simcoe presented Sally with a poem he wrote asking her to be his Valentine, and his famous poem, entitled “Will You Be My Valentine,” became the first documented written Valentine in America.

“Valentine’s Day is the most romantic day of the year, and many couples celebrate their wedding anniversaries on this special day. We look forward to making this special

day even better as couples renew their marriage vows and declare their endless love for one another,” said Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

“Couples often select Valentine’s Day to celebrate their relationship,” added Town Clerk Richard LaMarca. “It may be a sentimental choice for couples who had their first date, first

kiss, or even engagement on Valentine’s Day. Whatever the reason, we are proud to offer this special vow renewal ceremony at Town Hall.”

The ceremony will take place at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay hamlet. The event is offered free to town residents but reservations are required. Residents

interested in renewing their wedding vows should RSVP to (516) 624-6380 by February 10.

Please meet some of our local scholars...

The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:

•Anthony DeRosa of Massapequa, attending Clarkson University, was recently named a Presidential Scholar. DeRosa is a senior majoring in Civil Engineering.

•Zoe Galanoudis of Massapequa, attending Western New England University, was recently named to the Dean’s List. Galanoudis is working toward a BSBA in Marketing.

•Margaret Dolloff of Massapequa, attending St. John Fisher University in Rochester, was recently named to the

Dean’s List.

•Paige Bilich of Massapequa, attending Bates College, was recently named to the Dean’s List. Bilich is majoring in Mathematics and minoring in Digital and Computational Studies.

•Sarah Jean Colosono of Massapequa, attending Kutztown University, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Sara Genevieve Hughes of Farmingdale, attending Kutztown University, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Keira Amiruddin of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Jack Cohen of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently

named to the Dean’s List.

•Emily Gaba of Farmingdale, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Sarah Green of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Marco Interlandi of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Shannon Lowney of Massapequa, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Michael Mannarino of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Hailey Matthews of Massapequa, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Hailey ODonnell of Farmingdale, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Jessica Ozner of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Christopher Schimkus of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Kathryn Wick of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Marc Parisi of Massapequa, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to the President’s List.

•Joseph Masciovecchio of Massapequa, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to

the President’s List.

•Michael Dolloff of Massapequa, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to the President’s List.

•Danielle Giannitsis of Farmingdale, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to the President’s List.

•Michael Stidolph of Massapequa Park, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Tyler Habig of Massapequa, attending Southern New Hampshire University, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Grace Markey of Massapequa Park, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Jimmy Sanders of Massapequa Park, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Brooke Bauer of Massapequa, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Michael Caliendo of North Massapequa, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Ryan Gurien of Massapequa, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Sophia Lambert of Massapequa, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

Continued on Page 11

In photo above, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, Supervisor Joe Saladino and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrate with over 100 couples at a Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal ceremony at Town Hall.

LONG LIVE

MAKAYLA DAUBE

Mepham Senior Basketball

A FIFTH-YEAR VARSITY basketball player, Daube accomplished two rare milestones this season while leading the Pirates to 10 wins in their first 13 games. Mepham’s 2025 Valedictorian, she reached both the 1,000point and 1,000-rebound plateaus. On Jan. 9, in a 54-40 victory over Herricks, she also became the program’s single-game scoring leader with 34 points. In the fall, Daube helped Mepham to its first-ever volleyball county title.

GAMES TO WATCH

Friday, Jan. 24

Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hempstead 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Kennedy at Elmont 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Plainedge at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Wantagh at Mineola 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Long Beach at Baldwin 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Mepham at Carey

Girls Basketball: Glen Cove at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Freeport 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Manhasset at Hewlett 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: South Side at Clarke 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25

Girls Basketball: Floral Park at Lynbrook 10 a.m.

Boys Basketball: North Shore at Seaford 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Island Trees at Malverne 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Mineola at Wantagh 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Clarke at V.S. North 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Seaford at North Shore 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Wheatley at West Hempstead 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Uniondale at Farmingdale 12 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 27

Girls Basketball: Freeport at Oceanside 6:30 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Kennedy at South Side 7 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.

Plainedge knocking on playoff door

By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com

In a conference filled with parity, the Plainedge boys’ basketball team is in the thick of a playoff race after starting off the season with a 3-4 conference clip (9-6 overall.)

With five conference games left, Plainedge will need to go 3-2 over the stretch run to make a second straight playoff berth following its 59-52 loss to Floral Park last Friday.

Plainedge had beaten Floral Park in its first meeting for its season’s best win but couldn’t duplicate it despite being tied with four minutes left. “They got their shots to fall, we didn’t,’’ Plainedge star Owen Donnellan, who scored 18 points. “They made their free throws. We didn’t but we competed with them.’’

Still, Red Devils head coach John Mateyko is pleased to be in this position.

“We’re good enough to win the rest of our conference games but we also could go 2-3,’’ he said. “We’ve been consistent all year – played pretty good ball.’’

The central figure has been senior 6-footer Donnellan, having an All-Countytype season in averaging 15 points. He was All-Conference last season when Donnellan made a huge jump. He’s a threeyear starter but opted for a Division I lacrosse scholarship at Stony Brook.

“He’s very fast, gets up and down the court,’’ Mateyko said. “We play fast. It fits his style of play. He’s doing thing seniors do to help us win. Each year he got better and better.’’

“The fact I can shoot from the outside and am athletic enough to beat people off the drive makes me harder to drive,’’ said Donnellon, who averages 2.5 3-point makes per game.

From last season’s playoffs squad, Brian Keaveney, who is 6-5, may have made the biggest leap. He’s averaging 9 points at forward. “He has had a strong senior year,’’ Mateyko said. “He was a part-time player last season. He’s come on with double--figure games in rebounding and scoring.’’

Another surprise is senior point guard AJ Gulino, best known as an All-State soc-

cer star with an LIU scholarship. He’s missed the last two basketball seasons because of injuries but has come on his senior year to average 9 points and offer stability at the point-guard slot.

“He’s real consistent, plays hard,’’ Mateyko said. “He’s probably one of the reasons we have nine wins. I expected things from him I didn’t know AJ would be that good.’’

Plainedge figured to have the tallest team in its history but was dealt a blow when 6-foot-5 Jackson Torres, a football player, decided not to come out. Plainedge’s football team reached the Conference IV championship game.

“We thought he was going to play so it

was disappointing for us,’’ Mateyko said. Alec Anderson, who is 6-6, decided to play after the long football season during which he committed to John Hopkins. Anderson is coming up strong at center with averages of 2 blocked shots, 6 rebounds and 9 points.

Usually Plainedge, a football school, has a half-dozen player coming from the gridiron but this season they have just one. Still, a second straight playoff berth is very possible.

“I’m confident we can get there as long as we stay together as a team, plays as a team,’’ Donnellan said. “I just think our athleticism (is key). We all play other sports together so we got good chemistry.’’

Erik Lee/Herald

Senior point guard AJ Gulino has been a bright spot for the Red Devils, averaging nearly double digits in points per game.

Deborah M. Lifton, music teacher, singer and ‘brilliant flame,’ dies at 48

Deborah M. Lifton, a music teacher and accomplished soprano, died January 8 at the age of 48 after a courageous 18-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Lifton, of West Hartford, Connecticut, and formerly of Massapequa, was remembered as a “brilliant flame” by those who knew her.

“In her 48 years, Debbie left the enduring imprint of her talent and wisdom on the souls of all who knew her,” said her husband Daniel. “The warmth, generosity, and positive energy that she radiated in every interaction drew people to her like moths to a brilliant flame.”

Lifton’s musical career spanned opera, art song, and music education. A former classical soprano, she was not only a professor of voice but also a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. She inspired students around the world, believing in “teaching the whole person” and encouraging self-discovery through music.

Mrs. Lifton was the daughter of Arthur and Elaine (Pespas) Lifton. She was raised in Massapequa Park and graduated from Massapequa High School, where she starred in many musical theater productions. Her talent led her to competitive summer programs at the Eastman School of Music and the Boston University Tanglewood Institute.

Lifton earned a degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan, where she performed in major opera pro-

ductions and made lifelong friends. She later completed her Master of Music at the Manhattan School of Music in 2000 and went on to a successful 25-year teaching career. She taught at New York University, Ithaca College, Western Connecticut State University, and the Hartt School at the University of Hartford, where she also served as Vocal Division Director.

An exceptional vocal technician, Lifton was known for her unique approach to teaching. She believed that singing was not just about technique but also about understanding and communicating deep emotional truths. Her career took her to France, Hungary, China, Italy, and across the United States.

Lifton’s love of art song, which she considered the ultimate fusion of poetry and music, was exemplified by her 2007 win in the prestigious Joy in Singing competition and a sold-out recital at Merkin Hall in New York City.

She met her husband, Daniel Gurvich, in 2001 while they were singing together at the Ash Lawn Highland Festival in Virginia. The couple traveled extensively, visiting tropical beaches, Europe, and the national parks of the American Southwest.

Lifton is survived by her husband, Daniel Gurvich, of West Hartford; their daughter, Maria Gurvich; her parents, Arthur and Elaine Lifton, of Bloomfield, Connecticut; her brother, Jason Lifton, and his wife,

Catherine Ho, of Brooklyn; and nephews Harrison and Niko Lifton, of Brooklyn. She is also survived by her in-laws, Mark and Nadia Gurvich of Cary, North Carolina; sister-in-law Rachel Gurvich and her husband, Ken Chu, of Cary; and niece and nephew Hannah and Nathan Chu, of Cary. Additionally, Lifton leaves behind a network of lifelong friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity.

A memorial service to celebrate her life was held January 9 at the Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center in Avon, Connecticut, followed by burial at Beth El Cemetery. Shiva services were held January 10 and 11 at her home in West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Deborah Lifton Art Song Fund at bit.ly/deborah-lifton-fund.

Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato will host four free workshops on property tax assessment grievance workshops for residents looking to acquire information on how to challenge their 20262027 property tax assessments.

“While Nassau County determines your assessed value, we in town government want to make sure you know that you have a right as a homeowner to challenge your assessment. Remember, your assessment can only be lowered as the result of a challenge – it can never be raised – and this workshop helps you challenge for free,” said Pravato.

The property tax grievance deadline is March 3. The workshops are scheduled as follows:

•Tuesday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W. Carl St.

• Wednesday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m. at the

Hicksville Community Center, 28 W. Carl St.

• Thursday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m. at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay

• Tuesday, Feb. 4, 7 p.m. at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay

In January, Nassau County notified residents of their home’s tentative assessed value for the 2026-2027 school tax period and the 2027 general tax period. Any residents who did not receive the notice can view it online at www.mynassauproperty.com or contact their county legislator.

At the workshops, Pravato will answer questions and show residents how to use online tools to file an “Application for Correction of Property Tax Assessment” online or via mail.

For those unable to attend the workshop, Pravato offers an online video at www.oysterbaytown.com/grievancevideo

Deborah M. Lifton

A modern approach to traditional values

‘Character

Catholic education has always been unique because it is values-based, and places a high level of importance on personal and interpersonal skills. This difference has been realized through the expectation of certain kinds of conduct in a Catholic school that reflects a student’s self-respect, and respect for others. Responsibility, and accountability for one’s actions have always been part of the higher expectation in Catholic school.

After years of experimenting with the latest educational fads, schools of all types across the nation are recognizing that investing in the social and emotional management skills of students will have a greater effect on the trajectory of their lives. Public, private and Catholic schools have all shown greater interest in what is now known as Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). Catholic schools, because they have never lost sight of this, are further along in the development and implementation of SEL programs.

Catholic schools across the Diocese of Rockville Centre have maintained their focus on the ‘character education’ of students, even as more permissive educational models were being implemented elsewhere. While current-

Education’

has a new name: Social and

ty and self-discipline. In doing so, character education has systematically, yet seamlessly, been an integral part of the educational experience of generations of students.

Today, the heightened interest in SEL makes it clear that Catholic schools were on the right track all along.

Why Social Emotional Learning matters

Social Emotional Learning is viewed as attentiveness to the whole child’s needs. It is comprised of five major components: selfawareness, self-management, decision-making, relationship skills and social awareness.

Self-Awareness: A self-aware student will recognize how his or her thoughts, emotions, actions, and values impact their behavior.

Students are encouraged to embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that change is possible, and that they have the ability to become selfsufficient and confident.

Self-Management: Students are taught to regulate their own thoughts, emotions, and actions to align with their values. Selfmanagement emphasizes motivation, impulse control, organizational skills, and goal-setting.

Emotional Learning

appropriate social behavior, and participation in group and collaborative activities.

Social Awareness: The ability to empathize including those with whom they well as those from different moral, ethical backgrounds. everyone who has attended Catholic attest, these five principles are tradia Catholic education. In fact, characteristics are often the most easily

distinguishable differences in the way a young man or woman ‘carries themselves’ in their daily interactions with others. They are the characteristics that we subconsciously recognize and silently attribute to the student being ‘a Catholic school kid’.

Photo: Faith-based rigorous academics are enhanced by innovative teaching practices that prepare students for the modern tech-based world in which we live.

Massapequa’s East Lake students honor their law enforcement heroes

Blue was the color of the day at East Lake Elementary School in the Massapequa School District on Thurs., Jan. 9 when the police showed up in force.

It was the second annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Day with dozens of police officers visiting throughout the day to talk about their vital role in protecting the community.

The uniformed guests were family members of students and staff. They showed off equipment, talked about a typical day in law enforcement and answered questions from students.

Officers visited classrooms and hosted grade-level presentations in the All-Purpose Room.

Each guest engaged students in a unique way. One officer flew a drone for a class while another read a children’s book. Outside, children got to see a pair of police motorcycles.

The officers came from variety of agencies including the Nassau County Police, the New York City Police Department, the Port Authority Police and village departments. A LEAD committee of more than a dozen administrators, teachers and staff members planned the event. Co-chairs Toni Farrell and Kelly Laura said that the police officers were asked to emphasize their roles as community helpers.

“We want students to know how special and important police officers are, and understand how they protect us,” Farrell said. “We are coming together as a school community to honor them for their service.”

Students made a variety of crafts that were hung throughout the building to show their appreciation for the officers.

First graders penned thankyou notes that the guest could take home or bring to their colleagues.

Tim Kornbluth, a retired NYPD sergeant who has a child in fifth grade, enjoyed interacting with the students. He said they asked a lot of questions about his experiences and wanted to hear his most memorable stories.

“Massapequa is a very big law enforcement community,” he said. “For the school to recognize the sacrifices that we make is so important.”

East Lake Elementary students welcomed police officers for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on Jan. 9.

Officers from the NYPD hosted grade-level presentations to talk about the role of law enforcement.

Matt Presta from the NYPD drone team gave an interactive presentation to second graders.

Second graders, from left, Grace Gladitz, Louie Marrero, James Zuniga and Emmy Maddock made drawings to show their appreciation for the police.

Fourth graders were excited to check out a pair of Nassau County Police Department motorcycles.

Please meet some of our local scholars...

Continued from Page 4

•Ricardo Castillo of Farmingdale, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Brendan Perez of Farmingdale, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Spencer Rustyak of Farmingdale, attending the University at Buffalo, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Kristina Helrigel of North Massapequa, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Provost’s List.

•Claudia Sanzone of Massapequa Park, attending SUNY Oneonta, was recently named to the Provost’s List.

•Connor Kennedy of Farmingdale, attending Curry College, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Blake Rothstein of Massapequa, attending Curry College, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Anthony Ciaravino of Farmingdale, attending Lebanon Valley College and pursuing a bachelor of science in actuarial science, data science and mathematics, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Kathleen Conaty of Massapequa, attending SUNY Canton as an Applied Pschology major, recently earned Part-Time Honors.

•Kimberly Westenberg of Massapequa Park, attending the State University of New York at Cortland, was recently elected to membership into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi,

wich is the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society.

•Ivan Villanueva of Farmingdale, assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment of the 104th Military Police Battalion of the National Guard, recently received a promotion to the rank of Master Sergeant.

•Stevie Stang of Massapequa, attending Georgia Southern University, was recently named to the Fall 2024 President’s List for excellence in academics.

•Brooke Baglione of Massapequa, attending Massapequa High School and studying Veterniary Science at Nassau BOCES, was recently named Student of the Quarter at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school.

•Ella Barauso of Massapequa, attending Massapequa High School and studying Fashion Design Technology at Nassau BOCES, was recently named Student of the Quarter at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school.

•Diana Jardine of Massapequa, attending Massapequa High School and studying Rehabilitation Medicine at Nassau BOCES to become a Physical Therapy Aide, was recently named Student of the Quarter at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school.

•Brianna Home of Massapequa, attending York College of Pennsylvania as a senior Secondary Education ma-

jor, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Holly Krieg of Massapequa Park, attending York College of Pennsylvania as a sophomore Biology major, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Alexis Shaw of Massapequa, attending York College of Pennsylvania as a senior Elementary Education major, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•Lauren DelliBovi of Massapequa recently attended Hofstra University’s Class of 2024 annual White Coat Ceremony, marking the transition from a Physician Assistant student to healthcare professional, and also received the Academic Excellence Award.

•Mario Febbraro of Farmingdale recently attended Hofstra University’s Class of 2024 annual White Coat Ceremony, marking the transition from a Physician Assistant student to healthcare professional.

•Jessica Messina of Massapequa recently attended Hofstra University’s Class of 2024 annual White Coat Cer-

emony, marking the transition from a Physician Assistant student to healthcare professional.

•Sofia Almendarez of Massapequa Park, attending Belmont University, was recently named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2024 semester.

•Andrew Miglino of Massapequa, attending Belmont University, was recently named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2024 semester.

•Nicholas Cummings of Massapequa, attending Belmont University, was recently named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2024 semester.

•Marisa Valvo of the Massapequa UFSD was recently named Nassau BOCES GC Tech Student of the Quarter by Principal Madelaine Hackett.

•Matthew Wipperman of the Massapequa UFSD was recently named Nassau BOCES GC Tech Student of the Quarter by Principal Madelaine Hackett. Have a scholar in your house? Send us the information at cjames@liherald. com and include your phone number.

Read the Massapequa Herald Post for all your local community news.

LIRR record on-time rate isn’t whole story

By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com

With New York City’s new congestion pricing system now in place, Gov. Kathy Hochul rode the rails to Syosset earlier this year, urging city-bound Long Island commuters to leave their cars at home and embrace “world-class” public transit.

On Long Island, the tolling program is expected to increase commuters’ reliance on the Long Island Rail Road. Weekday ridership climbed from about 77 percent of pre-pandemic levels in 2023 to roughly 80 percent last year.

Transit officials, meanwhile, are highlighting the improved service of the railway system, emphasizing a propublic transit message to court suburban commuters looking to avoid the $9 toll to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. LIRR President Rob Free boasted that a higher percentage of trains operated on time last year than ever before.

“Our 95.6 percent on-time performance in 2024 is our highest non-Covid year in the history that we’ve been tracking on-time performance,” Free said.

Three years of growth and growing pains

An analysis of LIRR data over the past three years, however, combined with riders’ firsthand accounts, paints a fuller — and undeniably more complicated — picture.

The number of late trains nearly doubled from 2022 to 2023, from 8,691 to 17,064. The surge, Free contends, resulted from the increase in post-pandemic service over the last two years amid landmarks like the opening of Grand Central Madison terminal in 2023.

“We operated over 77,000 more trains in 2023 than in 2022,” Free said. “We’ve operated a little over 316,000 trains in 2024, compared to 302,000 trains in 2023. That’s a huge lift.”

The new service into Midtown Manhattan brought with it a complete overhaul of the system’s train schedules. Some service lines and connections were cut, while others added more frequent service.

By the end of November 2024, the number of late trains for the year dropped to 11,480, as disruptions eased — although the number of delays remained higher than in 2022.

LIRR’s own operations are main culprit for delays

Despite fears of commuter frustrations and confusion with the opening of the new terminal, the main cause of train delays in 2023 and 2024 wasn’t passenger-related interruptions. Instead, it was train operations — issues like scheduling conflicts, slow boarding and late departures. These were problems largely within the transit agency’s control that ate into the time passengers needed to board and disembark.

Other problems, like delays caused by train door malfunctions in an aging fleet, were up 79 percent in the first half of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023. And the much-needed upkeep of the LIRR’s ailing infrastructure, from

According to state data, while the LIRR achieved a record 95.6 percent on-time performance in 2024, the number of delays remain higher than in 2022 due to operational issues, infrastructure maintenance, and the impact of increased service volume.

Riders report overall satisfaction with their service but, complained about missed connections, and weren’t happy about the possibility of another fare increase.

signal repairs to track maintenance, has also been a major contributor to train delays over the past two years.

For his part, Free said that a “heightened focus on infrastructure maintenance” has helped, cutting switch failures by 31 percent in 2024, with further work focusing on improving safety and efficiency planned for this year — even if that means more delays.

Historic on-time rate, but average delays stay the same

LIRR trains are more punctual overall, but the average delay of a late train hasn’t gotten any shorter. Rather, wait times have held steady — between 11 and 12 minutes — over the past three years.

Given what he described as an “explosion” of service since the beginning of 2023, Free views this consistency in lateness as a sign of a functioning

system. In the nation’s largest transit system, with lines of service so “interconnected that one hiccup on one of our branches can have systemwide impacts on our total operation, the on-time performance we are achieving is nothing short of a miracle,” he said.

Still, critics point out that the data on train delays misses a key detail: the agency’s “on or close to schedule” standard allows for a grace period of up to six minutes. Delays under six minutes aren’t counted, masking a significant portion of minor setbacks that can still disrupt commuters’ plans.

Riders like Sasha Hanson, who commutes from Valley Stream to her interior design job at Stonehill Taylor in Manhattan, contends that these unofficial hold-ups can be just as vexing when they cause missed connections, particularly at Jamaica Station.

“It gets obnoxious, especially when transfer delays hit at the last minute— usually right as you’re getting off the train,” Hanson said. “It’s not like you can avoid it ahead of time on your commute.”

The “amount of trains that we operate through this terminal is a huge impediment to our operation,” admits Free. “We are looking to improve this situation by putting in higher speed switches, lengthening the platform, and installing a new signal system among other capacity improvements.”

Riders give LIRR high marks — but not for fares

Despite delays, last fall’s MTA survey found that 76 percent of nearly 22,000 commuters surveyed were satisfied overall with their service. Yet some commuters who speak well of the railway also balk at the idea of higher fares.

“I don’t think fares should increase, because it’s costing me a lot of money just to get to school,” said Raya Adiva, a Valley Stream resident and high school senior who depends on the LIRR to get to school in the city.

The specter of more expensive fares looms over commuters as the MTA Board approves a $19.9 billion budget for 2025, which includes plans for a potential 4 percent hike in fares and tolls.

“What’s important to keep in mind is that the price of a monthly ticket is still cheaper now than it was in 2019,” Free said. “The way we institute fares is predictable, so our customers know when it’s coming. We’ve done an incredible job of maintaining cost and giving people good value for their money.”

Data Wrapper Illustration by Juan Lasso/Herald

Tim Baker/Herald

Yoga workshop calms minds at Lockhart Elementary

Kindergartners are already acquiring the tools for mental well-being at Lockhart Elementary School in Massapequa.

Recently, youngsters took part in a yoga workshop, coming away with relaxation techniques to use at home and in school.

The sessions were led by Tracey Kappenberg, a certified yoga instructor and mother of two Lockhart students. She led kindergartners through different breathing and stretching exercises while serene music played in the background.

Kappenberg began each of the two sessions by ringing a chime and talking to students about the purpose of yoga. She said she wanted them to have fun while

also gaining new stress management tools.

Principal Michael DeLuca said that when Kappenberg approached him about the idea of doing a yoga workshop, he knew it would be a great experience for students.

That’s because the workshop supports the school’s social and emotional learning program while reinforcing lessons from teachers and pupil personnel services professionals. Most importantly, he said, it equips children with lifelong skills and strategies.

“It was very beneficial,” DeLuca said of the yoga sessions. “It’s good for students to learn how to calm themselves if they’re feeling stressed, even at a young age.”

O’Bay hosts Karaoke for seniors

Oyster Bay Town invites seniors to participate in the Town of Oyster Bay Senior Karaoke Program, held at various community centers throughout the Town. The popular program, launched last year, saw such popularity it has returned bigger and better for residents who are interested in showing off their vocal talents.

“We’re calling all Town seniors who love to sing! This fun karaoke program will give you the opportunity to perform your favorite songs, from the tunes of Sinatra and Greatest Hits of the ‘80s to Today’s Top Songs, all in a social, welcoming environment,” said Councilman Lou mbroto.

The Senior Karaoke Program takes place on the following schedule:

•Mondays – 1 p.m. at Marjorie Post Center, 451 Unqua Rd, Massapequa Park

•Wednesdays – 1 p.m. at the Glen Head Community Center, 200 Glen Head Rd, Glen Head

•Thursdays – 11 a.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W Carl St in Hicksville

Great singing skills aren’t necessary; residents are welcome to attend without performing. There is no registration required for this program.

For more information, please call the Department of Community and Youth Services, Senior Citizen Services Division, at (516) 797-7916.

Above: Certified yoga instructor Tracey Kappenberg was joined by her son Jack, right, a kindergartner, in one of the sessions.

Below: The yoga workshops included several stretching exercises.

The governor assesses the state of the state

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul kicked off her fourth year in office on Jan. 14 by outlining her proposed 2025 agenda in her State of the State address. That agenda includes more than 200 initiatives, many of which would have an impact on Long Island.

Here are some of the key proposals Hochul discussed.

Affordability

Unsurprisingly, Hochul began the address with the issue on every New Yorker’s mind: the cost of living. New Yorkers have seen rising prices in housing, food, utilities, transportation and health care. According to RentCafe, the cost of living in New York is 26 percent higher than the national average.

The governor proposed tax cuts, rebate checks and savings from free school lunches, an initiative that could save a family of five $5,000 a year.

“I’m calling for a sweeping middle-class income tax cut benefitting 8.3 million taxpayers making less than $323,000,” she said. “The tax cut I propose today and will fight for in the coming months will deliver the lowest tax rates in seven decades and save hardworking taxpayers $1 billion.

“But that’s just the start,” she added.

A proposed $3 billion in inflation relief rebates would provide one-time payments of $300 or $500 based on income level and tax filing status. The initiative would have to be approved by the State Legislature.

Hochul’s budget also includes expanding the state’s child tax credit. Under the proposal, families could see the credit increase by as much as three times the current amount — up to $1,000 per child under age 4, and

Tim Baker/Herald

Kathy Hochul delivered her State of the State address on Jan. 14, discussing a wide range of policies. Above, the governor appeared at the Long Island Association’s State of the Region Breakfast on Jan. 10.

$500 for children ages 4 to 16. The changes would be phased in over two years.

She governor also proposed that households making up to $323,200 — roughly 77 percent of taxpayers — would be given an income tax break that could save households hundreds of dollars a year for roughly.

Education

Hochul unveiled a proposal that would offer free tuition to New Yorkers pursuing associate’s degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing, teaching, technology and engineering. The initiative would build on the state’s existing financial aid programs, and target residents between 25 and 55 seeking to learn new skills to look for jobs in essential industries.

Nearby states, including Massachusetts, have launched similar tuition-free college programs to address labor shortages and promote economic mobility.

Hochul also announced her support for universal free school meals. That would mean boosting state funds to expand an existing program that could reach 280,000 students who aren’t already covered.

Mental Health

Hochul, who is expected to seek re-election in 2026, took office in 2021 when residents statewide were grappling with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Many students faced — and continue to face — mental health challenges.

That has been a central focus throughout her administration. In her latest initiative, she aims to address concerns about random acts of violence committed by those with severe, untreated mental illness. Her agenda includes strengthening Kendra’s Law, which mandates outpatient treatment for certain people with mental illnesses who are not receiving care.

Additionally, Hochul is advocating for a Teen Mental Health First Aid program, to equip high school students with the skills to maintain their mental health and offer support to their peers. She also promoted mental health resources for after-school programs, to ensure students access to licensed health care facilities through state-funded programs.

Bigger Space, Bigger Impact:

Last Hope Thrift Shop Relocates to 310 New York Ave.

Bow Wow! Meow! The Last Hope Thrift Shop is moving to a bigger store. Our new address will be 310 New York Ave., Huntington 11743.

Last Hope Animal Rescue is fortunate that our donations continue to exceed the size of our present thrift shop. After more than three years at 274 New York Avenue, we have grown from filling a “Cocker Spaniel-size” space to needing a “Great Danesize” space so we can display all our incredible merchandise in a visible and safe way.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

Our new, beautiful shop has more than double our current square footage. We want our customers and volunteers to be able to tap dance while their thrift shop magic happens this way-

•With a wave of the magic wand, one person’s unwanted items sell and become someone else’s new possessions, where all profits turn into goods and services for Last Hope’s homeless pets. *

Thrifting at a non-profit is the ultimate form of recycling. Discarded merchandise stays out of landfills and generates support for the non-profit’s mission.

We plan to open this new location on or before February 1, 2025; while continuing to be open Tuesday through Saturday (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 274 New York Avenue during January 2025. We have already acquired new fixtures and moved tons of goodies to our new location. The new shop is a work in progress!

New Name: Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift & Treasures

The following are a list of public meetings and special events for the coming week: Please note: All meetings are subject to change without notice.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

•Massapequa School District Board of Education Meeting: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa.

•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 6246333.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information, call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569

The new shop is on the same side of the street, two blocks south, closer to Main Street, set back slightly, next to FETCH Dog Grooming, and between Sedoni Gallery and Sur Argentinian Steak House, “catty” corner across the street from the empty Book Revue. There is free parking in the Chase Bank lot and adjacent municipal lot across the street, slightly north of our shop.

Blowout Moving Sale:

This week everything (except handbags) at our current thrift shop at 274 New York Avenue is 50% off. Only Jewelry $15 or under is half price. Fabulous Savings!

Last Hope was “born” in Huntington in 1981, originally rescued death-due dogs from Huntington Town Shelter and had thrift shop/secret animal shelters in Huntington back then. We are thrilled Last Hope Animal Rescue will continue to shine in Huntington in 2025.

More News Soon:

•Our official Grand Opening (after Feb. 1) at 310 New York Ave., Huntington.

•Our valet, car side pick-up of your donations at 310 New York Avenue.

For now, please continue to bring your generous donations to Last Hope in Wantagh or to 274 New York Avenue and please spread the word about our move to a new location.

For more information or to volunteer at our chic thrift boutique, call Joanne Milkbone at 631-671-2588.

Above: Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift & Treasures has 24 feet of glass cases. Below : A selection of handbags at the new thrift shop.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.

MONDAY, JANUARY 27

•Massapequa Fire District Meeting: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28

•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting: 10 a.m. Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6380.

•Emotional Health Recovery and

Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)332-0552 or Jill at (516)-220-7808. All calls are confidential.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29

• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)-332-0552 or Jill at (516)-220-7808. All calls are confidential.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org

Arena Football team to call Coliseum home

By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com

Arena Football is coming back to Nassau County, and this time it’s in a brand-new league in the form of the ENTFLA – the Entertainment Football Association.

Spearheaded by Hall of Famer and former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Andre Reed, flanked by league owner Doug Freeman with a slight style different: other than the fact that it will be indoors, is that it will be on 7-on-7 format with a reduced play clock, along with the elimination of kicking on fourth down, leading to overall higher-scoring and higher-paced games.

Uniondale and Nassau Coliseum will be the home of one of four teams in the ENTFLA, with the other teams based in Morristown, NJ, Danbury, CT and Fitchburg, MA. The season is projected to run from June to August.

The emphasis of the new league in the land of Billy Joel and bagels was to bring professional sports to local, blue-collar families without breaking the bank, with an added emphasis on entertainment appropriate for the entire family while at a pro game, confirmed by its mission statement.

League advisor Tommy Benizio said the real purpose is to bring something that’s affordable, fun and entertaining, giving families in Long Island a place to come without driving hours and pay hundreds of dollars in tickets and parking passes to watch football live in an arena.

Plus, it’s meant to be fun.

“Between the players flying over the wall, landing in your lap and knocking your hotdog out of your hand, you catch a football you get to keep it, the cheerleaders, the mascot, the dancing and T-shirt canons, it is a fun and entertaining thing for three or four hours on Sat-

urday nights,” Benizio said. “So before you can come into the building we want live music and jumping castles for kids and a beer garden, it’s a party.”

With over 100 high school football teams on the island, the league’s owners hope for a close connection between the youth of Long Island growing in the sport they love, and the professionals engaged in it. Roosevelt High School football head coach Joe Vito is excited to see how a local pro football team will create an additional positive influence for his players.

“I’m excited to be able to have my team come here and see and maybe dream about maybe being this one day,” Vito said. “I try to expose our kids to a lot of things and coming to this is will be something they’ll be exposed to, so they’re excited to get the opportunity to come.”

Reed, the league commissioner, is key on the possibility of giving all types of NCAA football players another avenue to play the sport they love even if they don’t make it to the Show.

“We’re gonna be pulling kids from college, that pool, and a lot of these that are going to play in this league, when they play in this league, it’s another avenue for them to get to the Big Time,” Reed said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re at, if you’re good enough and display those attributes that a team might want, you can find somewhere to go and get a chance. We feel this league is about that.”

Each team will play 8 regular-season games.

“Anytime that we could have another opportunity to have more of our kids play professional football, is a great opportunity that we love as we coach the youth,” Vito said.

The nickname for the “Long Island” or “New York” franchise will be determined through a naming contest. Visit goentfla.com for more information.

Courtesy ENTFLA Buffalo Bills legend Andre Reed is commissioner of the new Entertainment Football Association, which debuts

with

franchises including Long Island.

STEPPING OUT

Photos courtesy LICM

In the Orion spacecraft, future astronauts interact with buttons, levers and sounds as they learn facts about what it takes to bring humans to the Moon, and eventually to Mars.

Space explorers need to utilize limited resources on the moon to live and survive. At this work station, children transport objects to and from the surface using foam blocks.

for an out-of-this-world

adventure

‘Moon to Mars’ touches down at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Danielle Schwab

Calling all future space explorers! It’s time to set course to the moon, and beyond, with opportunities for kids to fuel their imaginations and dream bigger — and farther — than ever before.

“Moon to Mars” has rocketed into Long Island Children’s Museum, on view through May 4. The traveling exhibit, — created by Omaha Children’s Museum and designed with support from NASA’s Deep Space Exploration Systems at Johnson Space Center — brings the wonders of space to life for young learners. Through six immersive play zones, future explorers get a first-hand look at current space technology and discover the possibilities of future missions.

“We have the resources to bring a really complex topic to life for children, where they can understand what makes a mission possible like what tools are used or why astronauts need to wear protective clothing,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education.

Inspired by the current realities and the future dreams of space travel, the exhibit’s connection to real NASA technology is what makes it so compelling. Kids can climb aboard the Orion Spacecraft, designed to carry astronauts on future Artemis missions — using buttons, levers and sounds — or take the wheel of the Lunar Rover to explore the moon’s rugged surface.

“With the recent advancements in space exploration, like the launch of the James Webb telescope and the evolution of SpaceX, it’s the perfect time to introduce an exhibit focused on the future Artemis Mission,” Niver says. “We have so many leaps in space exploration and so many new things on the horizon.”

Clearly, creating advanced space technology is no simple feat. It involves creativity, problem-solving and much trial and error on the part of a diverse team. Young space explorers have the chance to dive into that engineering process, designing and building their very own rockets, and then launching their creations across the room.

“There’s a lot of engineering components that come into this, involving critical thinking for kids. These people [the spacecraft systems developers] have an incredible amount of skill and knowledge about space and creating these structures, but there are still things that they might realize don’t work, and to solve the problem,” Niver adds.

“The exhibit offers children endless opportunities to nurture their curiosity through the most effective way we know they learn: play. It also provides a valuable opportunity for parents to discover ways to incorporate big concepts like space exploration, physics and engineering into play at home. Whether it’s building a Martian landscape with pillows or creating a rocket ship out of a cardboard box, these activities spark storytelling that encourages imagination and inspires the ‘big thinkers’ of tomorrow.”

After young “explorers” have landed at their destination, there’s still much to be discovered. Visitors can get geared up in a spacesuit and explore a new world.

Among the components, kids can construct a new base using pulleys and blocks at the Moon Base Builder to make the planet or moon inhabitable.

Once the base is complete, step through the lunar leaps and feel the changes in gravity as you walk — or jump.

• Now until May 4

• $18 museum admission, $16 seniors 65 and older

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

“You could take a leap and you have to work really hard to jump far on the moon. You wouldn’t have to do that because you don’t have the gravitational force pulling you as strong,” Niver explains.

Additional learning opportunities are found at the Space Academy Kiosk video display. It covers all things space exploration such as life in space, spacesuits, and real-life astronauts.

Each activity shows the boundless nature of space in kidfriendly fashion, perhaps even inspiring some future astronauts and space engineers.

“They can step into the role. It helps kids to connect to something that isn’t exactly what they know, they could put on a costume or a spacesuit and really embody that character. Hands-on play is a great way to engage them in content or topics that may be a little bit more foreign to them,” Niver says.

“The astronauts, at one point, were kids too. They dreamed of the same thing as you. You can understand the path that they went through that led them to their current career,” she adds.

As always, related programming enhances the exhibit experience. This time around, the museum is partnering with its Museum Row neighbor, Cradle of Aviation Museum.The Cradle’s portable, inflatable planetarium dome, the Digitalis Planetarium, will be in residence Feb. 17-21, for more space exploration. Families can discover the majesty of the stars and our universe during a 30-minute presentation led by a trained Cradle of Aviation educator. Four planetarium performances will be offered each day.

The LICM stage also gets in on the act with the futuristic production of “Interstellar Cinderella,” Feb. 7-March 21. Set in 3017, Cinderella is a space engineer who is looking to revolutionize space travel with her new invention.

While the exhibit is “in orbit” be sure to check out more related programming; information is on the museum’s website.

Acrobats of Cirque-tacular

Families will enjoy a new take on circus-style thrills when the Acrobats of Cirque-tacular visits the Landmark stage,. Cirque-tacular features one dazzling circus feat after another in a high-energy, family-friendly flurry of fun. Indulge your curiosity and celebrate your senses as this troupe of acrobats, aerialists and circus specialty artists bend, twist, flip, and fly into everyone’ hearts. Cirque-tacular’s performers — an ever-changing cast of elite aerialists, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, specialty acts and world-record holders from Broadway and Las Vegas stages — are hailed as “mesmerizing”, “incredible”, and “truly impressive.” The performers are revered as cutting edge leaders of the new American vaudeville movement. Explosive music that complements the performance and act adds to the fun.

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2 p.m. $38. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

‘Dancing with the Stars’

Dancing with the Stars is back on tour to heat up winter with a dazzling live production. See the ballroom brought to life in this new edition featuring everyone’s favorite Dancing with the Stars pros and special guests. They’ll perform glittering new numbers as well as some of the unbelievable showstoppers featured in season 33. The high-energy show puts the dancers in the spotlight, showcase their dynamic moves as seen during the series, along with some lively new twists. The tour delivers an unforgettable night of electrifying dance performances from worldrenowned dancers who topped the leaderboard.

Tuesday, Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com, tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Intergalatic adventures take flight.

THE Your Neighborhood

‘Easy come, easy go’

Queen-mania rocks on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band, Saturday, Feb. 1 , 8 p.m. 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 with an unforgettable concert experience. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music.

The carefully curated setlist featuring Queen’s best-loved songs, like “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” and “Radio Ga Ga,” along with lesser known tracks. And of course, no Queen tribute concert would be complete without classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more. $79.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Art League of Long Island’s 68th Annual

Members’ Exhibition

Art League of Long Island presents its 68th Annual Members’ Exhibition, a showcase of the remarkable talents within its vibrant community of artists. The exhibit, hosted in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery, features an array of works from painting and ceramics to jewelry and fiber arts. This annual event is a cherished tradition that highlights the diversity and creativity of ALLI’s over 400 memberships. From emerging artists embarking on their creative journey to seasoned professionals, each participant demonstrates the profound artistic spirit that fuels the Art League of Long Island’s mission.

It is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate creativity across mediums and generations. Due to the high volume of submissions, the exhibition is split into two parts, with Part I showcasing artists with last names M-Z and Part II with last names A-L. This format alternates each year, ensuring equal opportunities for members to shine. Part I dates runs through Jan. 24; Part II runs Feb. 1-28 For more information about the exhibition, upcoming events, or how to support the Art League of Long Island, visit .artleagueli. org or call (631) 462-5400. Art League of Long Island, Dix Hills.

Co-ed Badminton

For adults looking for an indoors sport to keep active in the winter, join Co-ed Badminton! Classes take place on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, at Hicksville Athletic Center. Classes are for those 18 years of age or older and run for 10 weeks. Online registration is open at oysterbaytown.com/portal. There are fees for the classes. For information, (call 516) 7977945. 167 Broadway, Hicksville.

Deep sea exploration

Are you ready to dive into the unknown at The Whaling .Museum? Kids and adventurous adults can use a blacklight to hunt for hidden clues about out-worldly creatures that dwell in the ocean’s depths in “Deep Sea Explorers” throughout January. The next session, “Beyond the Book”, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m. includes a talk about how Jules Verne’s “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” helped change the notion of sea monsters. For more information, more upcoming events, membership and tickets, go to coldspringwhalingmuseum. org or call (631) 367-3418. 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor.

In concert

Jericho Public Library hosts the Gypsy Felons, Sunday, Feb. 2, 2 p.m. The band will play songs from the ‘60s and ‘70s and tell the interesting stories behind the music. Open to all. Free tickets required. Tickets available at the Jericho Public library. For more information, call the Library (516) 935 -6790. 1 Merry Lane, Jericho.

Model Train Show

The TMB Model Train Show features its ever-exciting show of model trains running in dozens of interesting settings, Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 9, 1-5 p.m., at the Upper Room Church.

With new scenic areas to discover as well as familiar sights and a wide variety of trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains, all set in 6,500 square feet of fun for the entire family. Admission is free. So, mark your calendars now. 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills. For more information go to tmbmodeltrainclub.com.

Intro to AtoZ databases

Learn how to use A to Z databases at Farmingdale Public Library, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 10-11 a.m. These databases are a great resource for finding people and businesses and to create mailing lists and sales leads. Preference is given to UFSD #22 residents. To register and for more information, call (516) 2499090. 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale.

Long Island Winter Run

The 2025 NYS Parks Winter Run Series continues on Sundays, Jan. 26, at Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park, Field #3 and Feb. 2 at Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh, Field #4. You can register for an individual race or for the full series. Individual registration is $20 and registration for the full series is $50. Registration is online at shorturl.at/njdxP. There will be post-race refreshments and an awards ceremony.

Having an event?

On Exhibit

Come in from the cold and enjoy a movie on Farmingdale Public Library’s big screen. See ther 2004 political satire “Welcome to Mooseport” starring Ray Romano and Gene Hackman, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 1:304 p.m. A former U.S. president who has moved to a colorful Maine hamlet and suddenly finds himself running for mayor against another local candidate. Preference is given to UFSD #22 residents. To register and for more information, call (516) 249-9090. 116 Merritts Road., Farmingdale.

Art Explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, Feb. 1, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and making art together. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit nassaumuseum.org to register or call (516) 484-9337.

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.

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/ Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.

Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Long Island Choral Society auditions

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 will be held Mondays, Jan 27, 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.

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.

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.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person 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.nassaucountyny.gov/527/Annual-TaxLien-Sale

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, audio-tape 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'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.

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 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,

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 deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 23, 2025 THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York 25-109 1/22, 29

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. as successor-in-interest to all permitted successors and assigns of JPMorgan

Chase Bank, National Association, as Trustee for Specialty Underwriting and Residential Finance Trust Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005BC2, Plaintiff AGAINST Eddie Maiorino a/k/a Eddie A. Maiorino; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 5, 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 24, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 45 Beverly Place, Massapequa, NY 11758. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Massapequa, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 65 Block 101 Lots 2314, 2315, 2316, and 2317. Approximate amount of judgment $590,059.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 614095/2017. 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."

John Kennedy, 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: November 26, 2024 25-108 1/22, 29, 2/5, 12

Legal Notice

Notice is hereby given that a license (number pending) for beer, wine and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer wine and cider at retail in a restaurant under the Alcohol Beverage Control Law at 113-115 Front Street Massapequa Park, NY 11762 Nassau County for on premises consumption.  Taglio Pizza Massapequa, LLC. 25-104 1/15, 22

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0267-25-101067 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 80 S Main ST, Unit A, Freeport, NY 11520, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Chelas Locas Corp. 25-107. 1/22, 29

EmploymentHERALD

LONG B EACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

NYU Langone Health is recruiting participants for an exciting new study exploring why and how some people with dementia experience a return of mental clarity as they approach the end of life.

NYU Langone Health is recruiting participants for an exciting new study exploring why and how some people with dementia experience a return of mental clarity as they approach the end of life.

These episodes are known as paradoxical lucidity. If you have a loved one suffering from advanced dementia, they may eligible for this study.

These episodes are known as paradoxical lucidity. If you have a loved one suffering from advanced dementia, they may eligible for this study.

If interested, please contact the Parnia Lab research team at 917-227-0932 or pl@nyulangone.org

If interested, please contact the Parnia Lab research team at 917-227-0932 or pl@nyulangone.org Paradoxical Lucidity in Severe Dementia: A

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

OFFICE ASSISTANT PT Flexible Hours. General Office Duties. Phones, Filing, Light Bookkeeping. $20$25/ Hour. Salary Commensurate With Experience. Email info@cousinsmetal.com Or Call 516-536-7755

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible

HomesHERALD

The fires in L.A. got us wondering

MASSAPEQUA: CUTE ATTIC Apartment, 1 BR, Bth, Perfect For Single Person. All Utilities Included. References. Asking $1,250. Call After 4pm. 516-795-3018

Q. I, like many others, am upset about the terrible fires happening in California. We were discussing it the other day, and are wondering what your opinion is about how these fires spread so quickly, considering that we were also having high winds at the same time. Are our homes safe? Do we have better building regulations? Could the same thing happen to us that’s happening in California? What can we do to prevent this and what do you think California should do?

A. It can happen here. We must all listen, observe and learn from this tragedy to avoid repeating it in our own communities. I have often written about the beginnings of rules and regulations, which began after the great fire of London in 1666 and, in this country, after the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. It took many decades and many lives lost to recognize that building codes were needed, however.

Unfortunately, the typical response, historically, is to immediately express horror, but as time goes on, become complacent that something that bad couldn’t happen here. Yes, it can happen anywhere, and certainly in communities where the buildings are closer together. So we need to listen when we’re told that it could happen, and realize why fire could burn down any community where nature’s forces work against our best planning.

We have seen the devastation, and some of us realize the many elements that contribute to disaster, such as drought, high winds, finish materials that combust and lack of ability to escape, to name a few. Our building codes are focused on life safety and limiting fire spread. At the right temperature, nearly everything burns.

California has similar codes, but many buildings were constructed prior to the newest, more stringent codes and did not have safety requirements for one- or two-hour resistive surface materials, interior sprinklers or opening protective devices like special shutters that drop to enclose spaces and reduce fire spread. Our roofs, siding, fences and interior materials, just like California’s, can ignite readily when hot embers land on them.

Rebuilding in California will have to include interior sprinklers, non-combustible exterior materials and community training in what to take, when to evacuate and how to do so safely without blocking the path of emergency responders. I expect that we will see greater distances between dwellings and backyard structures, less vegetation, cannons mounted on utility poles to shoot fire-retardant and fire break walls that can lift out of the ground to separate buildings. There are products on the market to do all of these things, though most have been developed for flood prevention or highly flammable building conditions. More people will choose cement board siding that mimics everything from stone to wood siding to preserve styles that are consistent with the building shape, and metal, cement or ceramic tile roofs that will not combust if a hot ember or coat lands on it, and metal window frames. Remember to choose safe materials. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

Wooden deck, 16"wide 54"long In Baldwin. $10 (516) 254-3640

GENUINE LEATHER BLACK Swivel Chair, Good Condition. 516-554-3643. Curbside pick-up, Malverne, $95.

GIRLS CLOTHES SIZE 10, New with Tags. $11 each. Lot of 10 pieces. 917-420-5814

HOOVER RUG SHAMPOOING Machine with all Attachments, and Cleaning Supplies. $75 LIke New. 516-486-7941

STEMWARE, CRYSTAL FROM Macy's Water, Wine, Champagne. 6 each. Original Boxes. Never Used. $95. (516)225-9191

TEENAGE BOYS CARGO Shorts: Size 16, New with Tags, $10. Denim, Beige and Grey 917-420-5814

TIFFANY STYLE CHANDELIER: 1970s, Multicolor glass, 20 inch diameter $15 (516) 965-0982

WALL SAFE: HEAVY Duty, Fits in Wall between Studs, 15"x15" with 2 Keys. $50. 516-486-7941

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Legal Services

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“

The Sopranos” revolutionized television entertainment when it made its debut on HBO in 1999, and continued through 2007. On the surface, it was an organized-crime story centered on a mob guy in New Jersey named Tony Soprano. Below the surface, however, “The Sopranos” explored new levels of the complexity of human nature.

Yes, Tony Soprano was a monster capable of vicious brutality. But he was also an uppermiddle-income family man living in suburbia with a wife, Carmela, and two children he truly loved. Sure, he had his goomba, but he genuinely cared about and provided for Carmela, and would say hardly a bad word about her. He was a doting father who would take his daughter, Meadow, to visit prospective college campuses while taking time out along the way to murder

opinions

‘Woke up this morning . . .’

someone who had crossed him. All in a day’s work.

Then there was Tony’s mother, who had also plotted to kill him. Underlying all these contradictions was the reality that this vaunted tough guy and super stud was in therapy with Dr. Melfi, who treated him for anxiety and depression.

TThere was also a supporting cast of rogues and characters that would cause anyone anxiety. Big Pussy was Tony’s loyal friend, who turned out to be an FBI informer — a “rat.” Tony killed him, and dumped his body off the family boat so he could swim with the fishes. Bobby Bocola was an overweight killer who could play Santa Claus, and got himself shot to death in Trainland, the model train store on Sunrise Highway in Lynbrook.

Uncle Junior was an aging mob leader and family patriarch who was capable of casual cruelty.

hree of the stars of ‘The Sopranos’ offer their takes on what made the show special.

Christopher, Tony’s young protégé, killed his girlfriend, Adriana, when he found out that she, too, was an informer. Paulie Walnuts smothered his mother’s friend to death with a pillow when she caught him stealing her money.

Recently, my wife, Rosemary, and I went to the historic Patchogue Theater for the Performing Arts to see “In Conversation With the Sopranos,” with Steve Schirripa (Bobby Bocola), Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti) and Vincent Pastore (Big Pussy), who reminisced about their experiences on the show and answered questions from the capacity crowd. The audience was made up of real people — middle-income Long Island families, many of whom, no doubt, had moved out here from New York City. Listening to the questions they asked, you’d conclude that they must have watched and rewatched every “Sopranos” episode. Schirripa is a good friend and a truly great guy, totally down to earth. I’d met Imperioli and Pastore when they did a similar show with Steve about six years ago in Westbury. Both are very talented but regular guys.

The show was terrific, with the trio

discussing how they got their parts and their opinions of the other actors. James Gandolfini — Tony Soprano — was the glue that made “The Sopranos” work so well, and was extremely generous and always supportive. Dominick Chianese (Uncle Junior) was an exceptional actor and a totally mild-mannered gentleman off screen. Tony Sirico, who played Paulie Walnuts, was a psycho on and off screen but a loyal friend.

Particularly funny was Pastore’s story about how a real-life mob-connected restaurant in the Bronx had proudly displayed his framed photo on the wall — but because the show depicted him as a “rat,” the picture was taken off the wall and destroyed. Their presentations were terrific, as was the question-and-answer session. They had a great rapport with the audience. After the show I met briefly with them, and told them “The Sopranos” would never grow old. Schirripa and I said we’d connect again soon. I’m looking forward to it.

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

When was the last time you read a book?

iam 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.

GPT to see what AI could do with the assignment.

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 Chat-

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; “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” 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.

RAnDi KREiss

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Massapequa

HERALD

eHerald editorial

Serve the constituents, not the parties

arlier this month, those who were elected and re-elected in November took their oaths of office.

Long after the last ballot is counted, and as soon as the oaths are administered, the most important chapter begins — the work of governing. And now that Gov. Kathy Hochul has delivered her State of the State address and the legislative session is underway, New York’s elected officials face an urgent challenge: to move beyond partisan rhetoric to deliver for the people who entrusted them with power. While the election season is often defined by fiery speeches and ideological divides, the responsibilities of governing require cooperation, compromise and a steadfast focus on serving the taxpayers.

Hochul laid out her vision for the year in her address last week, touching on issues that transcend party lines, including affordable housing, public safety, economic growth and climate adaptability.

These are not Democratic or Republican issues; they are New York issues, and they demand solutions from leaders on both sides of the aisle. Yet the immediate responses to Hochul’s proposals

letters

Peter King walks a tightrope with Trump

To the Editor:

showed how entrenched partisanship can overshadow a shared commitment to progress.

Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, but some of the reactions to the State of the State were all too predictable, either filled with vitriol for Hochul’s policies or unquestioningly agreeing with everything she said.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of divisiveness. The political climate in New York, as in much of the country, is polarized, with both parties often more focused on scoring points than solving problems. But taxpayers deserve better. They expect their representatives to work together — less as Democrats and Republicans than as public servants dedicated to improving the quality of life in their communities.

Addressing housing affordability, for example, isn’t merely a policy discussion — it’s a pressing issue for families struggling to make ends meet. Likewise, public safety can’t be reduced to talking points; it affects the lives of residents of cities, towns and villages across the state. And economic growth isn’t about partisanship — it’s about creating jobs, supporting small businesses and helping communities thrive. These priori-

Re Peter King’s column “Once again, there’s a New Yorker in the White House” (Jan. 9-15): King should be commended for his once again skilled sleight of hand when it comes to comments about President Donald Trump. King managed to call him an “overlord” while at the same time showering him with praise for his supposedly singlehanded eradication of MS-13 on Long Island. King can certainly walk the tightrope very well. Lest we forget, Trump’s focus on the gang was a convenient opportunity for him to launch his narrative that all migrants are criminals, murderers or rapists. The FBI, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and, most important, Long Island law enforcement should be praised for their diligent, exhausting work on this scourge. And any child could see through Trump’s blatant politicization last year of Officer Jonathan Diller’s murder. Really, Peter. How amusing that King chooses to focus on Trump’s New York roots, his beginnings in Queens and King’s memory of a smiling Trump appreciating King’s New York accent. As if these things could overshadow our new president’s slew of bankruptcies, criminal indictments, multiple accusations of sexual abuse and documented perpetration of fraud on the public via Trump University and the Trump Foundation. King also

ties require collaboration, creativity and the willingness to engage in tough but constructive dialogue.

The stakes are high. Trust in government is fragile, and elected officials must demonstrate that they can deliver results. That means setting aside political differences to focus on what unites us: a shared desire for a prosperous, safe and equitable New York. It means finding common ground on key issues while respecting differing perspectives.

As the state’s leaders embark on this legislative session, they must remember that their duty is not to a political party, but to the people they represent. Voters have made it clear time and again that they don’t want endless gridlock or partisan posturing; they want solutions. They want leaders who prioritize progress over politics.

The work of governing is not glamorous, and most of the time it doesn’t make headlines. But it is the foundation of a functioning democracy. Now that the campaigns, the election and the swearing-in ceremonies are behind us, it’s time for the winners to roll up their sleeves, put the rhetoric aside and get to work. The future of our state — and the trust of its people — depend on it.

notes that Trump has made friends with County Executive Bruce Blakeman, former Congressman Lee Zeldin and county Republican Party Chairman Joe Cairo — MAGA supporters all. Birds of a feather flock together.

Of course, King is afraid that he and all the other Long Island MAGA tools that

Trump used while campaigning will be discarded in his junk heap of no-longeruseful sycophants now that the election is over. King is genuflecting to Trump again in an attempt to garner favor for New York in light of Trump’s continuing belligerent rhetoric about blue states and big cities. Most importantly, Long Islanders need a

opinions

Rubbing elbows with three great men

Columnists generally like to write about happy things, or at least not dwell on the subject of death. But over the past few weeks, three very significant people have died, and in some or many ways, I had direct contact with all of them. I refer to the late President Jimmy Carter, Chuck Dolan and Dick Parsons.

I don’t claim to have been a buddy of President Carter’s, but I had one interesting experience with him that is still fresh in my memory. During my years in the Assembly leadership, there was a custom that all potential Democratic candidates for president be introduced to the members of both houses of the Legislature. It was the job of an assigned member to escort the potential candidate around the Capitol for the meet-and-greet.

Apparently, nobody in the leadership offered to take then Governor Carter to

meet the elected members. Almost by default, I raised my hand and offered to do the escort work. My first task was to meet Carter at the Albany airport. At the stroke of noon, he arrived in the waiting area, looking to find his good shepherd. I greeted him and drove him to the Capitol so he could make his pitch for why New York should support his candidacy.

it was the White House operator, and to my surprise, President Jimmy Carter was calling.

During the following three hours, Carter made his case for being the next president. Late that afternoon, we returned to the airport, and I wished him the best of luck. He wasn’t convinced that he could win over doubting Democrats, but he was determined to go to all of the key delegate-rich states to convince the doubters that he was the man for the job.

Two years later, the modest and humble Georgian was the president. On a February afternoon, our home phone rang, and the woman calling said she was the White House operator. Despite being skeptical, I took the call, and to my surprise it was Carter calling.

Letters

repeal of the state and local tax write-off cap imposed as punishment by Trump during his first term. Former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito promised to get that done, but caved in the end. Maybe the recent visit to Mar-a-Lago by Reps. Andrew Garbarino, Nick Lalota, Mike Lawler and the rest was enough to satiate Trump’s need for sucking up from his MAGA crew, and we’ll see a lifting of the SALT cap.

New Yorkers don’t need to “work to find common ground with the president” to become great again. We are one of the most beautiful and economically stable states in the country, with resources and opportunities not available in any other part of the nation. Do we have problems to be addressed? Sure we do. But we’re still great.

ELIzABETH MuRPHY Franklin Square

Town hikes taxes, and mailers, ads keep coming

To the Editor:

Nassau Republican officials at every level shamelessly waste taxpayer money on mailers and op-ed pieces that are purely partisan attacks on Democrats, and they cite one-party rule in Albany, overlooking the stark reality that Nassau County, its cities, towns and most villages, is currently ruled by a single-party GOP machine, as it has been for most of

He told me that he would be making a number of public-works grants on Long Island, and asked if I had any preferences for a grantee. I recommended my hometown of Long Beach as the recipient of federal dollars — but I never heard from Carter again.

On a note closer to home, I was one of thousands of people who had a chance to know Charles Dolan, who created Cablevision and countless other innovations. He was a giant in the communications industry, but he was just plain Chuck in private.

I had the good fortune to be invited to his Christmas receptions and his famous July Fourth parties. On every occasion, he had the ability to make you feel like you were the only person at the event.

One August, Chuck invited my wife and daughters to the Hampton Classic, a major event for equine aficionados. Chuck had acquired a new camera and took pictures of my family, which I used on our family holiday card that year. I credited him as the photographer, and I got a call from him, thanking me for giv-

ing him the recognition. At all times, Charles, the titan of the industry, was just plain Chuck.

My last tribute is to the late Dick Parsons, a giant in so many businesses who was known for his great negotiating skills. I met him in the late 1960s, when he was a counsel to Gov. Nelson Rockefeller. He eventually went into the private sector, as chairman of the Dime Community Bank and Time Warner.

I still fondly remember a lunch appointment of ours on the afternoon of the O.J. Simpson trial verdict. We spent an hour discussing how Simpson could avoid a conviction, but at all times he was just Dick Parsons, a regular guy talking about a world of issues.

After decades of meeting great people, I very much miss those who were humble and gracious, never making a big deal of the power and influence they were lucky to possess. There aren’t many of those people left on this planet.

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

Framework by Tim Baker

our lives.

We all suffer from the Nassau and Town of Hempstead GOP’s relentless crusade to stay in power by gerrymandering, doling out patronage and perks to friends and family in the town’s employ, spending millions of taxpayer dollars on partisan mailers and television ads while imposing double-digit tax increases and fees on beleaguered taxpayers.

While Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin gave generous raises to his inner circle, again, he and his Town Board socked every town homeowner with a double-digit tax increase, sneaking in a 12.1 percent tax hike in December and over $850,000 in raises this month without mentioning it in any of the town’s famous and constant mailers. And this year the town refuses to post the names of those receiving raises. What are they hiding?

The town’s devious attempt to hide this nepotistic, self-serving resolution to give themselves, their families and friends substantial raises epitomizes Clavin’s resolve to hide the truth from voters. Or is this just a way to avoid recusing themselves from voting on raises to relatives?

It’s time for this charade to end. Clavin must stop raising our taxes in years he isn’t running, and then sending out tax-paid mailers at $80,000 a pop, claiming he is freezing taxes in an election year.

DAvE DENENBERG Merrick

In last week’s brief “Gillen sworn in as a Congresswoman,” a few of the people in the accompanying photograph were misidentified. Those in the photo included Owen Finegan, Myles

The view from the Nassau University Medical Center — East Meadow

JerrY kremer

Finegan, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Chris Finegan, u .S. Rep. Laura Gillen, Austen Finegan and Laine Finegan. The date of Gillen’s swearing-in was Jan. 3.

mountsinai.org/southnassau