Oceanside residents Michelle, Denise and Mike Rosello created their annual bright holiday display for a good cause. Visitors can donate funds that will go to the American Cancer Society. Story, more photos, page 5.
$23,000 grant
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Oceanside Middle School math teacher John Heron has secured a $23,000 grant from DonorsChoose to enhance students’ experiences in coding and problem solving. Financed by Optimum, the grant will fund cutting-edge Lenovo Yoga laptops for Heron’s Coding Club, enabling students to participate in hackathons and hone skills vital for thriving in a tech-driven world. The Coding Club was presented with the grant after school on Dec. 11, as seventh- and eighth-graders sat engrossed in coding projects
that could help lead them to future careers as software developers, engineers or even tech entrepreneurs. The students will now have the state-of-the-art tools to fuel their creative pursuits.
Heron’s grant submission, Fast Laptops for Hackathons, was funded by DonorsChoose, a nonprofit that connects public school teachers with donors who are eager to support impactful educational initiatives. The Yoga laptops the grant will pay for will help students prepare for hackathons — intense, team-based coding competitions in which they create innovative solu-
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The warm spirit of the holidays was heartfelt at Dees’ Nursery in Oceanside for a storied tradition, as community members gathered for the Trees for Troops send-off on Dec. 9 — an event that has brought joy and comfort to thousands of service members deployed overseas.
The 21st annual event, held in partnership with international courier service DHL Express, local schools and organizations combined thoughful messages, holiday cheer and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by military families.
and the beautiful words on the cards, it matters and is appreciated,” retired U.S. Army Col. Thomas Sullivan said. “Little did I know 21 years ago that I’d be a young captain in a foreign country away from home and family during the holidays, and to bridge that gap in the absence of family, were letters. It is appreciated, and it certainly makes a difference.”
verybody is just part of this great ‘Di’ team.
CAtHy O’REIILy Manager, DHL
More than 400 live Christmas trees adorned with handwritten letters, ornaments and decorations prepared to make their way to U.S. troops stationed around the world. For many of these soldiers, separated from loved ones during the holiday season, these trees serve as a comforting reminder of home and community support.
“The care packages, the cards
Many supporters turned out in Dees’ parking lot, at 69 Atlantic Ave., including Gold Star families, the Chaminade High School hockey team, the Girl Scouts of Nassau County, and students from Nassau County schools, who sent letters to accompany the trees overseas to the troops. In addition, Proctor-Hopson Post 1896 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Jamaica, Queens presented a donation of $15,409 for Trees for Troops. Gold Star families are the immediate family members of U.S. military service members who died while serving their country in combat, during military operations, or as a result of
Continued on page 7
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
After more than two decades without significant upgrades, the Oceanside Middle School library has undergone a dramatic transformation into a state-of-theart media center designed to meet the needs of 21st-century learners. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 2, attended by school officials, teachers, and students, unveiled a space that is as functional as it is inviting, blending modern technology with thoughtful design to create a hub for creativity and collaboration. The renovation project, led by architect Bob Cascone, aimed to replace the outdated library with a versatile and technologically advanced environment.
“The old library no longer reflected the needs of today’s students and teachers,” Cascone explained. “Our goal was to create a space that would inspire learning, foster collaboration, and integrate seamlessly with the school’s curriculum.”
Flexible furniture, movable bookcases, and glass-walled sections add to the library’s adaptability, allowing it to serve as a meeting space, classroom, or quiet study area. The inclusion of advanced LED lighting fixtures, programmable for various settings, ensures the space remains functional and welcoming throughout the day.
“We wanted a space that not only
meets the academic needs of our students but also reflects environments they are drawn to outside of school, like the Oceanside Public Library,” said Principal Allison Glickman-Rogers sharing her excitement about the library’s potential to enrich students’ educational experiences.
The renovation includes cutting-edge features like a podcasting and broadcasting studio, which provides students with opportunities to explore media production, enhance their technological skills, and express their creativity. A central circulation desk ensures staff
can oversee the entire space, while desktop computers complement the school’s existing iPad-based learning model, offering students exposure to a broader range of technology.
“This library is now a place where students can gather during recess, after school, or for projects,” Glickman-Rogers added. “The flexibility of the design allows it to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our students and teachers.”
The renovation process was informed by extensive research and input from educators and administrators. Visits to other schools provided insights into
best practices, while staff feedback helped prioritize key features such as flexibility, technology integration, and multipurpose functionality.
“One of the main inspirations was creating a space that could serve as many purposes as possible,” GlickmanRogers noted. “From individual study to group collaboration and even hosting small events, this library does it all.”
The redesigned library is expected to have a significant impact on the school community. Students are already drawn to the vibrant atmosphere, using the space for quiet reading, collaborative projects, and exploring new technology.
Teachers have a resource-rich environment to enhance their lessons, while the podcasting studio opens up opportunities for clubs and extracurricular activities.
“It’s not just a library anymore—it’s a place that encourages exploration and creativity,” he said.
The library renovation is part of a broader modernization strategy within the Oceanside School District. Recent updates have included science rooms and plans for a new turf field and engineering space at Oceanside High School.
“We’re excited about the library now,” Glickman Rogers said. “I think kids will want to use it at recess. They’ll want to use it after school. I just think it’s an inviting space. Kids are going to be drawn to it.”
The Oceanside Kiwanis Club and Department of Community Activities put on the annual Winter Wonderland event at Oceanside school six, bringing holiday cheer to families and the community. Festivities began on Saturday morning at with a lively sing-along featuring performances by high school and middle school choirs. Families then enjoyed a variety of free activities in the cafeteria, including face
painting, cake and cookie decorating, games, and arts and crafts. Adding to the magic, a horsedrawn wagon ride circled the school track, delighting attendees of all ages. The highlight of the morning came when Santa Claus made a special appearance, spreading holiday joy to everyone in attendance.
–Kepherd Daniel
Santa and Mrs. Claus share a moment of holiday cheer with the Conde-Hernandez family,
Families gathered at the Island Park Library on Dec. 14, to create festive gingerbread houses and on Dec. 13, as Santa and Mrs. Claus paid a special visit to the Island Park Library.
Emerson, who wrote a great deal about overcoming fear, said: “Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment and the more experiments the better. What if they are a little coarse and you may get your coat soiled and torn? What if you do fail, and get fairly rolled in the dirt once or twice? Up again, you shall never be so afraid of a tumble.”
Author Jeffers’ book explains that until you fully understand that you, and no one else, create what goes on in your head, you will never be in control of your life. When you blame any outside force for any of your experiences of life, you are literally giving away your power thus creating pain, paralysis and depression. Always ask yourself what am I doing or not doing that is causing this to happen to me. You don’t have to condone the behavior of others, but simply not to allow it to be the source of your upset. Jeffers teaches how to overcome your biggest enemy — your “chatterbox” and replace it with a loving
internal friend. “It is reported that over 90% of what we worry of never happens,” says Jeffers. We create our own reality.
The author moves on to decision-making and the fear of making the wrong decision. Here, she explains how there are no “wrong” decisions. Your writer has often advised clients that it is better to make the “wrong” decision than none at all. You learn from mistakes -- you learn nothing from inaction. Learn and correct or, as Emerson said, “The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks.”
Jeffers writes that there is a lightness to positive people. They have learned not to take themselves so seriously and they are a joy to be around -- they are those who have learned to make lemonade out of lemons. As Emerson rightly said, “We seldom see anybody who is not uneasy and afraid to live.” By adopting the lessons in “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway”, you too can become one of those seldom found people.
The event on Friday was filled with holiday cheer as children and parents worked together to design and decorate their sugary masterpieces. On Saturday,
children shared their holiday wishes, took photos, and enjoyed a magical afternoon.
The Gingerbread Villalba and Lattman families put the finishing touches on their gingerbread house during the library’s holiday event.
–Kepherd Daniel
The Gingerbread Villalba and Lattman families put the finishing touches on their gingerbread house during the library’s holiday event.
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Near School 8 in Oceanside, Mike Rosello’s home on 3286 Messick Ave. transforms into a wonderland each holiday season. For over a decade, Rosello has brought joy to the community with his dazzling light displays and festive decorations.
But this isn’t just a labor of love for the holidays—it’s a heartfelt tribute to his late father and a mission to make a difference.
Rosello, a lifelong Oceanside resident and custodian at School 6, began his holiday tradition at his parents’ house.
“Christmas was always a special time for my family,” Rosello recalls. “After my father passed away from lung cancer 12 years ago, I wanted to create something that would honor his memory and give back to others.”
Rosello’s home is a beacon of holiday spirit, featuring thousands of lights, handmade decorations, and a musical synchronization that delights visitors of all ages.
From animated snowmen to glowing PVC arches, nearly every element of the display is crafted by Rosello himself. His garage becomes a cozy holiday village, complete with a train set and intricate miniature scenes that captivate children and adults alike.
bling the pieces.
begins working on the project as early as October, dedicating evenings and weekends to carefully assem-
“It takes about six to seven weeks to complete,” he says. “I do it all myself, but it’s worth every minute when I see
the smiles on people’s faces.”
The display is more than just an impressive showcase; it’s also a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
Visitors are encouraged to make donations, which Rosello collects in a secure box stationed at the display. Over the years, he has raised around $5,000 to support cancer research and care programs.
“This is my way of turning something personal into something positive for others,” Rosello explained.
Rosello started decorating 25 years ago at his parents home and continued the tradition at his own home. Rosello’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. His display has become a beloved local tradition, drawing crowds of families and holiday enthusiasts from across the area.
“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together,” Rosello said.
Rosello’s display will remain lit throughout the holiday season. Visitors are encouraged to bring their families, Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and contribute to the fight against cancer through a box by the garage.
“I’ve always loved Christmas, and this display has become a way to share that joy with everyone,” he said.
their service.
Trees for Troops started in 2004 when a woman whose son was a soldier stationed in Iraq asked the nursery’s owner, Tom DiDominica Sr., if he could send her son a tree. DiDominica agreed, but needed help to ship it, and mentioned his mission to late community leader Jim Adelis, who organized the Trees for Troops event each year at Dees’ Nursery by contacting his contacts at DHL Express. Adelis then reached out to Cathy O’Reilly, manager of commercial air and network routing for DHL, who put the plan into motion. Adelis died in April of 2021 at the age of 67.
“A lot of people here knew him,” co-owner and son of Tom Sr., Joe DiDominica said of Adelis. “And he was an amazing man and one of the pillars of this whole thing and, unfortunately, he left us a few years back, and we miss him a lot.”
Joe DiDominica recounted the history of Dees’ Nursery, which started nearly 70 years ago with his father selling flowers on a corner in Oceanside. Now run by four generations of the family, the nursery is central to the Christmas tree initiative, involving family members and the broader community.
“There’s four generations that have been running this nursery,” O’Reilly said. “Everybody is just part of this great ‘Di’ team. A big thanks to the DiDominica family in Oceanside.”
Dennis and Marion Zilinski said they understand what the Trees for Troops event brings to veterans. Their son, Lt. Dennis Zilinski II, was killed on Nov. 19, 2005, in Iraq, and Dec. 1 marked the 18th anniversary of him being laid to rest at West Point.
The Zilinskis shared their emotional journey as Gold Star parents of a fallen soldier, and their continued efforts to support troops through the Lt. Michael P.
Joe DiDominica and Mike Johnson of the U.S. Marine Corps aside the DHL trucks as part of the 21st annual Trees for Troops send-off at Dees’ Nursery, ensuring service members feel the holiday spirit even when far from home.
Murphy Memorial Fund. Marion Zilinski reflected on their youngest son’s recent deployment to Syria, recounting a harrowing experience during which a bombing endangered his life.
“We received the phone call a month ago,” Marion Zilinski said. “He was in a building that was bombed. Now you can only imagine, as Gold Star parents, what it was like to receive that phone call. But his brother
was his special angel because all of the officers that were in that building all survived the bombing.”
The Zilinskis also highlighted their recent efforts to send artificial Christmas trees to soldiers stationed in areas unable to receive live trees.
“This is what happens when people cooperate and work together,” Marion Zilinski said. “It makes for a better country and a better you.”
tions to challenging programming problems.
Heron learned about hackathons last year, when he attended one as an observer. Presented by KidOYO, a Long Islandbased organization, the events challenge students to write code, create digital projects in a competition, and strategically collaborate to conquer territory on a digital map. Impressed by the innovation and teamwork on display, Heron made it his mission to get his students involved.
Preparing for hackathons isn’t easy. Students in the Coding Club hone a variety of skills, including programming, digital art and teamwork. The new laptops will be game-changers.
“The previous equipment we had wasn’t up to par for hackathons,” Heron acknowledged. “These new machines are faster, have better memory, and offer touch screens that allow the kids to focus on creativity and coding without technical limitations.”
The Coding Club, launched by Heron in 2017, has evolved to the point where students now learn programming languages like Python, JavaScript and HTML, along with digital art and problem-solving skills.
“When we first started, we were just dipping our toes into HTML,” Heron said. “Now these kids are diving into complex languages, and working on projects that even I need to learn about
before I can guide them. They’re not just consumers of technology — they’re creators,” he added. “Some of these kids take what they’re learning here and continue working on projects at home. They’re eager to learn, and sometimes they teach me things.”
The impact of the grant will extend beyond the middle school. The Coding Club is a cornerstone of the Oceanside School District’s broader Computer Science and Digital Community Pathway, a curriculum initiative designed to equip students with the technological skills they’ll need for 21st-century careers.
“We’ve been working for quite some
time now to build the computer science and digital community pathway in the district,” Dianne Provvido, assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and technology, said. “Through this pathway, kids get exposed to coding and computer science and all the good skills that come with it. Our math director, Tara Mauer, has been instrumental in designing it as we go, and we’re proud we went from maybe a class to growing a full pathway for kids who have this interest. I’m also really proud that all grade seven and grade six students get exposure to coding.”
The celebration last week brought
together not only students and teachers, but also Optimum representatives including Optimum’s director of community affairs, Allison Aylward, who highlighted the cable provider’s longstanding partnership with Donors Choose, through which Optimum has committed nearly $4 million over the past four years to fund educational projects across the 21 states it serves.
“Optimum is a technology company founded on innovation,” Aylward said. “We’re thrilled to support programs like this, that prepare the next generation of programmers and engineers that will be changing technology. This is why we’re happy to support things like this, that will help them for a career in a STEM field.”
The Coding Club will gear up for its first hackathon competition, in Haupauge on March 21. Students are tackling preliminary challenges and preparing to showcase their skills on a larger stage. The event will not only test their coding abilities but also emphasize collaboration, communication and creative problem-solving.
Thanks to Heron, the support of the district and Optimum, they are dreaming big. “When they first join, many know little beyond block coding,” Heron said. “By the time they leave, they’re mastering programming languages and building projects that astonish me. It’s rewarding to see them grow into confident, skilled coders.”
The Winter Wonderland celebration brought the Island Park community together, kicking off the holiday season with warmth, generosity, and festive fun.
The Village transformed into a festive Winter Wonderland on Dec. 13 at the Village Green, located at the corner of Long Beach and Warwick Roads. Families and community members gathered to enjoy a magical evening of holiday cheer, highlighted by a tree lighting and nativity blessing.
Attendees skated on the ice rink, explored inflatable attractions, and warmed up with hot cocoa as holiday music filled the air. Children were thrilled by a special visit from Santa Claus, adding to the excitement and joy of the evening.
The event also featured a charitable initiative as the American Legion Post 1029 collected Toys for Tots, helping spread holiday spirit to those in need.
–Kepherd Daniel
Jews joke every year that our holidays are either early or late. They are never on time.
Because the Jewish calendar is based off of the cycle of the moon it’s true that our holidays fall on different days on the Gregorian calendar each year. This year Chanukah begins on the evening of Dec. 25 and ends on Jan. 2. For Jews Hanukkah falls under the “late” category this year.
Some may not know it is not considered a major holiday. It doesn’t require us to go to Synagogue. Instead, it is a time to spend with family and friends to eat lots of fried foods like latke’s and sufganiot (jelly filled donuts) as well as to light the Chanukiah (9 candle Menorah).
The historical origin dates back to 167 BCE in the land of Judea during the rule of King Antiochus IV of the Seleucid Empire (Greek). King Antiochus was a tyrant who hated the Jews. He made it illegal for them to practice their religion and he forced them to pray to his Greek gods. If they refused, they were killed. The King took over the Jewish land along with
the Temple in Jerusalem. Jews took risks to practice in secrecy. This went on for a long time until one Jewish man had enough. Judah the Maccabee (who was the eldest son of the priest Mattityahu), gathered the Jews together and told them it was time to fight back. Judah wasn’t able to convince the Jews so quickly. Even his own father and brothers were hesitant. They were scared because they knew King Antiochus’ army was massive, strong and had all of the modern weapons of the day. They knew if they were to lose, it would mean the death of all Jews. But not doing anything would have brought them the same ending. Judah was persistent and finally was able to form a small army.
shields and swords as weapons. The fact that Judaism emphasis’ life, going to battle was not an easy decision. Unfortunately from what is known about King Antiochus, negotiating was not part of his personality. The battle between the Jews and Greeks lasted a couple of years. Even with all of the obstacles over those years Judah and his small army miraculously won. After their triumph the Jews began cleaning up what was destroyed by the Greeks. This included “The Temple.”
Through out history there have been numerous survival stories with miraculous endings. Jews have had their fair share but we know we aren’t alone. If we want others to stand with us in solidarity we too must do the same for others. We all have the power and choice to stand united as beacons of light to extinguish that darkness known as hate.
Scholars think Judah Maccabee’s army was one-third the size of the Greek army. The Maccabee’s had no battle experience and they only had
Inside there was a lamp that was to be lit at all times called the eternal lamp. Every Synagogue today has one to remind us of The Temple. When it was found there was thought to be only enough oil to last one day but lo and behold it lasted eight days. In the Fall of 164 BCE the Jews rededicated the Temple. Hanukkah means dedication.
Love is a great gift to give one another especially today. On the first night of Chanukah we recite, “Blessed are You, Adonai our G-d, who has kept us alive, sustained us and brought us to this season.” May the light of the Chanukiah shine through the darkness all eight nights to bring (all religious affiliations, all races and ethnicities, all genders and all sexual orientations) light, love and the Godly right to live freely, proudly and in peace.
Chag Chanukah Sameach and Happy Holidays,
Rabbi Jeshayahu ‘Shai’ Beloosesky is the rabbi at Temple Avodah, a Reform synagogue at 3050 Oceanside Road.
Temple Avodah hosted its annual Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 13, bringing together congregants and community members for an evening of tradition and fun.
The night began with services at followed by a lively party. Magician David Funn wowed attendees with his stunning magic tricks, while teens enjoyed a friendly game of dreidel, adding to the festive atmosphere.
–Kepherd Daniel
Magician David Funn shocks the crowd with his new magic trick.
‘Tis the season for a
By Karen Bloom
ost of us would agree that there’s almost nothing better than the aroma of fresh-baked goodies wafting through the house. Especially during holiday time. Nothing says “love” like fresh baked cookies and treats. So give the gift of homemade goodness, whether it’s a gift platter or by hosting family and friends for a cookie exchange. Everyone can get in on the act and share their creations all around.
Your gang will enjoy tasting these luscious creations in your makeshift holiday workshop.
Chocolate Mint Squares
Notes of crisp peppermint perfectly complement the flavors of coffee in this festive alternative to a brownie. Add some crushed peppermint to each cookie to create a beautiful and seasonal presentation.
Dough
• 1/3 cup baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate
• 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chopped pecans, optional
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil
Frosting
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar
• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil
• 2 tablespoons milk
Glaze
• 3 tablespoons baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate
• 1 tablespoon butter
Garnish
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9” x 9” pan.
To make the dough: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, salt and eggs.
Add the chocolate mixture, stirring to combine, then the flour, nuts and peppermint, mixing until well-blended.
Pour the batter into the pan. Bake the squares for 25 minutes. Remove them from the oven, and
cool to room temperature. Remove them from the oven, and cool to room temperature. While cooling make the frosting and glaze.
To make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter or margarine, peppermint and milk. Spread the frosting over the cooled squares in a thin layer.
To make the glaze: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter or margarine. Drizzle this over the frosted squares, and sprinkle with the crushed peppermint candy. Refrigerate the squares until they’re well-chilled. To serve, cut into 1 1/2” squares.
Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies
You can’t spin these dreidels, but you sure can gobble them up. The versatile dough that can be customized to create chocolate or colored cookies.
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Dreidel-shaped cookie cutter
• Piping bag
• Blue frosting
Cookie dough
In a medium-size bowl, mix the flour and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar, stir in the egg, then the corn syrup and vanilla extract. One third at a time, add the flour mixture until thoroughly mixed.
Pat the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until firm enough to roll. If it is too firm, soften at room temperature for 5 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375° F. Roll one disk of dough between two pieces of waxed paper or
plastic wrap, 1/4 inch thick. Remove the top sheet and cut out the cookies with cookie cutters.
Using a metal spatula, transfer the shapes to baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until cookies start to brown lightly around the edges. Remove the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes.
Using a metal spatula, transfer the cookies to racks and cool completely before frosting and decorating. Makes 12 to 50 cookies, depending on their size.
For chocolate dough: After the last third of flour has been added to the dough, mix in 1 ounce melted, slightly cooled unsweetened chocolate. Use your hands to knead in the chocolate.
For colored dough: Divide the dough into portions and use a toothpick to add food coloring paste (available at party supply stores) to each one. Knead until the color is evenly distributed. For a flavor surprise, omit the vanilla extract and add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the yellow dough, mint extract to the green dough, and strawberry extract to the red dough.
How to prepare
Cut out the dreidels from the rolled-out dough and bake as directed (if you cant find a dreidel cookie cutter, make a pattern out of lightweight cardboard). When cooled, pipe one of the four classic dreidel symbols on each cookie (either gimel, shin, nun, or hay) with blue frosting.
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1-1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 44 candy-coated chocolate pieces
• 88 semi-sweet Chocolate Chips
• 44 pretzels, broken into 1-inch pieces
Heat oven to 350° F.
Beat peanut butter, butter and sugars in large bowl with mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until blended. Add combined flour and baking soda; mix well.
Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Bake 7 to 9 min. or until cookies are just set.
Place 1 chocolate piece immediately in center of each cookie for a nose (press down slightly if cookies aren’t flat enough), 2 chocolate chips for eyes, and 2 pretzel pieces at top of cookie for antlers. Carefully remove cookies to wire rack; cool completely.
Beloved holiday tunes are combined with a musical cabaret in a joyous over-the-top spectacle that is the Madison Theatre’s holiday celebration. The cast of 48 performers enthusiastically share all the delights of the season in this show, now in its 11th year, created by Artistic Director Angelo Fraboni. The vibrant cast includes Broadway performers. and Molloy University’s pre-professional CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory students “Holiday Joy” invites everyone to take a journey through the many worlds of the holidays — through song and dance — in the fast- paced spectacle. Timeless songs such as “We Need A Little Christmas” are brought to life in joyful arrangements, accompanied by a live band.
Friday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m. ; Saturday, Dec. 21, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 22, 3 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or madisontheatreny. org.
Relive the classic songs that define generations. David Clark performs as Billy Joel along with Bill Connors as Elton John in this thoroughly entertaining and faithful tribute to the Face To Face/Face 2 Face tours of the 1990s and 2000s. Experience a spirited concert celebrating the two greatest ‘Piano Men’ of our generation with hits like “I’m Still Standing,” “Rocket Man,” “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right” along with some deeper fan performances like “Honky Cat,” “Funeral For A Friend,” “Miami 2017,” and “Captain Jack.” A tribute to two of the greatest piano players and performers of all time couldn’t be set up any other way! Groove along to the vibe at this one-of-a-kind performance where these two talents go head-tohead as Elton John and Billy Joel delivering unforgettable music and showmanship.
Friday, Dec. 27, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $28. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com.
Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got much too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Friday, Jan. 3 , 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — has been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast coast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively l mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer on a Friday night, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Long
Children’s Museum welcomes back its popular “Noon” Year’s Eve family party, Sunday, dec. 31, noon-4 p.m. This year’s event will be making an intergalactic leap with activities starting at 11 a.m., the addition of a third ball drop, plus space-themed crafts, entertainment and a confetti-filled dance party. The day’s celebration starts and ends with Times Squarestyle ball drops (noon, 2 and 4 p.m.). In between the opening and closing ball drops, families will make themed crafts and enjoy the DJ-led dance party.
All activities are drop-in and run through 3:45 p.m. $20 adults and children, $18 seniors, members free. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm. org.
Oceanside Library invites all to a special holiday concert with singer-songwriter Sherri Miller, Sunday, dec. 22, 2 p.m. Miller will perform a mix of holiday favorites and original music as part of the library’s holiday concert series. The event promises to be a festive and joyful experience for attendees. Registration is required to reserve a seat. For more information or to register, visit oceansidelibrary.com or call (516) 766-2360. 30 Davison Ave.
See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Saturday, dec. 21, starting at 9 a.m. The group will meet in parking lot #3. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. Rain, snow or temperature below 25 degrees will cancel the bird walk. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon.org.
Island Park Public Library invites all to its hybrid book club discussion of Claire Keegan’s “Small Things Like These,” Monday, dec. 30, 7 p.m. Set during Christmastime in 1985, this poignant story follows a family man as he makes a discovery that forces him to confront his painful past and the sins of the present. Attend in person at the library at 176 Long Beach Road, Island Park, or request a Zoom link by emailing iplinfo@ islandparklibrary.org. For more information, call (516) 4320122.
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
Island Park library hosts a Winter mini-cake decorating workshop, Thursday, Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m., Attendees will create festive mini-cakes with a winter theme, just in time for the holidays. Limited to 12 participants; the material fee of $8 must be paid in person at registration. Visit islandparklibrary.org for more. 176 Long Beach Road.
Celebrate Hanukkah at Friedberg JCC in Oceanside with a special luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 12:30 p.m. $42, or $36 for members. For more information, call the Friedberg JCC at (516) 7664341. 15 Neil Court.
Celebrate the 30th anniversary of “A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol,” a unique retelling of Charles Dickens’s holiday classic, Friday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church of Oceanside. $20 and can be purchased by calling (516) 766-5916 or visiting First Presbyterian Church of Oceanside on Facebook. 2701 Oceanside Road.
Oceanside Department of Community Activities presents the Hard 2 Guard Holiday Break Basketball Clinic, Saturday, Dec. 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at School #6. For students in grades 2-8, this all-day clinic features ballhandling, passing, shooting, and rebounding drills, as well as strength training, 5-on5 games, and activities on multiple courts tailored to skill levels.
Staffed by Oceanside Varsity coaches and athletes, the clinic emphasizes spirit, effort, and athletic growth. $85 registration fee includes lunch, refreshments, and prize giveaways. Drop-off is between 8:30 and 9 a.m., with pick-up at 3 p.m. For more information, contact the Department of Community Activities at (516) 594- 2336.
Having an event?
Celebrate the season with the Symphonic Pops of Long Island, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m. The intergenerational orchestra of 60 L.I.-based musicians performs with the Willow Interfaith Women’s Choir as special guests. The program, at Brookside School in North Merrick, includes “Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” “Christmas Sing-A-Long,” “Greensleeves,” “Chanukah Festival Overture,” and much more.
Suggested donation of $10 is requested at the door (kids are free). 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York. Visit symphonicpopsli. org for more.
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
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media.
It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Dec. 20, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 26, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 27, 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m.; 6: 15 p.m.; also Dec. 28-30. Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day & Other Stories” celebrates the joy in the small moments of a child’s world. Experience the wonder of a fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, and the awe of finding a special treasure. In this childhood adventure, Keats’ classic books come to life, featuring live actors and shadow puppets telling the stories of “The Snowy Day,” “Goggles!,” “Whistle for Willie,” and “A Letter to Amy.” $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
Nominate a student under 16 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.
We want to hear about the extraordinary young individuals who are driving change in their communities.
The award will be presented at the 2025 LI Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island powered by Reworld in February.
Your nomination could inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps!
Submit a nomination of approximately 200 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?
Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.
Yes! It’s December, the most wonderful time of year! The time, when multiple holidays are being celebrated everywhere, including Christmas Day!
Truth be told, Christmas is not just a holiday, it is a magical season of reflection, especially as our inner child begins to emerge full force as the holiday spirit begins to rise within our hearts! The time of year when we look forward to creating our holiday wonderland as we decorate our home with festive lights and decorations, along with our traditional Christmas tree, while listening to our favorite holiday songs! A time when we also enjoy watching our favorite classic holiday movies such as, “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street”, while others like me, are still loving, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman” as they take us back home to the precious childhood holiday memories of our youth!
Christmas is a Time to Strengthen Human Connections:
Connecting during the holidays can mean different things to each of us but at its core, the Christmas spirit revolves
around connection and why people often make an extra effort to gather with loved ones, reconnect with friends, and reach out to those they may not see regularly.
Why the Christmas Spirit Matters:
The Christmas spirit is about more than just holiday cheer; it is a reminder of the values that make us human — love, kindness, and connection. In a world that often feels very divided and rushed, embracing the Christmas spirit offers a chance to slow down, focus on what truly matters.
The Christmas Spirit during Challenging Moments:
important to schedule time for yourself and activities that can both recharge and soothe your mind and body. This may include reading a good book, working out, spending time in nature, and practicing stress management skills, such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.
Support others:
There is no denying that there are times during life when the holiday season can be a painful and challenging one and why recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them. A time when we may need to be extra kind and compassionate with ourselves, as well as others.
Create a plan to practice self-care:It is
During this time of year feelings of grief and loss can amplify. Check in on loved ones and friends who may be alone or struggling during the holiday season. If you know someone who is alone, consider inviting them to join you during the holiday season, or perhaps send them a Christmas card so they know they are being thought of.
Share Acts of Kindness, Compassion and Goodwill:
Someone you know is preparing for their first Christmas without their husband, wife, mother, father, brother, sister, daughter, or son. Others are preparing for their last. Regardless of the specifics, remember that this season of joy
is oftentimes a season of sadness for many people and why it is important to share acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, as they can each create a ripple effect of goodwill.
Conclusion: Regardless of individual beliefs, the Christmas spirit honors the importance of family, traditions and connections across the generations! So let’s each do our personal best in honoring our generational ancestors and family traditions, while also creating new, holiday traditions in today’s ever changing world. To blend our roots from both the old and the new as we continue to grow something new and beautiful!
On a personal note: As we approach the close of 2024, let us each slow down and take time for personal reflection of all that has been this past year and how we would wish to go forward into 2025! Wishing everyone a very merry, blessed, and safe holiday season!
Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
NASSAU COUNTY
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR VCC 2020MC1 TRUST, Plaintiff against 3876 CARREL LLC; DANIEL ANTHONY TINEO, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104,Halfmoon, NY 12065.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 19, 2022, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 3876 Carrel Boulevard, Oceanside, NY 11572-5917.
Sec 60 Block 78 Lot 6. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Approximate Amount of Judgment is $815,856.61 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 606288/2021.
During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Brian Davis, Esq., Referee File # 23-000845-01 150280 LEGAL
Marina Cecere; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2024 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 January 8, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 3358 Ocean Harbor Drive, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 43 Block 219 Lot 64. Approximate amount of judgment $498,265.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608346/2023. 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.”
Howard Eric Colton, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: October 31, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 150282
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-AR7, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-AR7, -againstJENNIFER IADEVAIO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 14, 2017, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-AR7, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-AR7 is the Plaintiff and JENNIFER IADEVAIO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 7, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 61 MONTGOMERY AVE, OCEANSIDE, NY
11572; and the following tax map identification: 43-332-349.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATED, LYING AND BEING AT OCEANSIDE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 019258/2009. Barton Slavin, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 150286
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWMBS, Inc., CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust 2004-25, Mortgage Pass Through Certificates, Series 2004-25, Plaintiff AGAINST Viktoriya Shtatlender, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 8, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 31 East Windsor Parkway, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 38, Block: 370, Lot: 564. Approximate amount of judgment $790,701.40 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613281/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be
maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. John Boklak, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-091027-F01 83150 150238
LEGAL NOTICE
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 613026/2024 ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC Plaintiff, vs DONNY G. CARDINEAU AKA DONALD G CARDINEAU AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DONALD E. CARDINEAU, JOHN G. CARDINEAU AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DONALD E. CARDINEAU, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DONALD E. CARDINEAU IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CITIBANK, N.A., DISTRICT COURT OF NASSAU COUNTY, DISTRICT ATTORNEY, NASSAU COUNTY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or
corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 4059 Broadway Island Park, NY 11558 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Donald E. Cardineau Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twentieth day of November, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Donald E. Cardineau (who died on July 8, 2023, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) dated the May 24, 2023, to secure the sum of $150,000.00 and recorded at Instrument No. 2023-32421 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on June 2, 2023. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 8, 2024 and recorded on March 21, 2024, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2024-17335. The property in question is described as follows: 4059 Broadway, Island Park, NY 11558 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a
default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: November 25, 2024 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 83599 150244
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE OF LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. NASSAU COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE ESTATE OF RITA SONIN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 28, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 3518 Frederick Street, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 354 and Lot 149. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,044,748.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #015712/2012. Thomas Scanlon, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 211499-1 150268
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-1XS MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-1XS, -againstMELISSA DELAPAZSMITH, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on October 15, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-1XS MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-1XS is the Plaintiff and MELISSA DELAPAZ-SMITH, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 13, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 3182 MESSICK AVE, OCEANSIDE, NY 11572; and the following tax map identification: 43-288-28, 29 & 30. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT OCEANSIDE, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 004456/2016. John J. Fellin, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 150441
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST DAVID T. BIANCO IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HA VE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 4, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 326 Moore Avenue, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 43, Block 290, Lot 51-53. Approximate amount of judgment $342,122.55 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604724/2021. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Anthony C. Curcio Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-000172 83174 150406
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
Help Wanted
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
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
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!
RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.
REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.
POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.
Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS
FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Q. We looked at a home to buy, and saw that the stairs from the first to the second floor were leaning. We keep seeing this in homes that we’re interested in. Even though we will get a home inspection, can you tell us, more specifically, what causes this, and whether it’s a reason not to be interested in any particular house?
A. Leaning stairs are usually improperly supported. Because stairs go through an opening between floors, their weight must be supported all around the opening. Unfortunately, this leaning and sagging condition is not uncommon, especially in older homes that were built before there were building codes and official building inspections by trained individuals who had to sign off on the way a home was framed. Many homes were framed by carpenters who had knowledge of materials and how to join them to create beautiful homes, without necessarily being formally educated in the engineering, science and math required to predict, and thereby avoid, failure.
To the trained professional, the stair condition you describe is considered a failure, because the weight of the stairs and the surrounding structure were not resolved to keep everything aligned. The leaning staircase was predictable, but not avoided. In some modern cases, when inspectors aren’t called before the framing is covered in finishes such as wallboard or woodwork, an official inspection isn’t done, and many inspectors will rely on a letter from a licensed architect or engineer.
You should be made aware that this practice of asking for letters may not be of much assurance, because not seeing the conditions and still writing a letter can be a problem. Letters don’t hold up buildings, but the shifting of the task is meant to shift responsibility, and unless the licensed professional really examines the conditions fully, you may just go through a shifting of blame similar to the shifting stairs.
The remedy is to lift the stairs into position while remediating the structure. In some cases, a column at the lowest level was required and not installed; in others, the horizontal floor joists surrounding the stairwell weren’t the right size; and in other cases, the stair may have been framed and attached to the surrounding structure incorrectly. Many people never consider the impact of an adult transferring their weight, with gravity, to the next step, literally falling a step at a time, multiplying their mass plus gravity.
In one instance I investigated, an air conditioning installer “needed” to cut through the main beam just below the stair landing so that only the air duct was holding the stairs’ weight, which, by the time I arrived, had dropped 4 inches. The air duct was redirected and the beam had to be replaced, which turned out to be an involved procedure. If the house has plaster walls, the repair is more expensive and, in either case, the added framing may be costly. It might be a reason to keep looking. Good luck!
© 2024 Monte Leeper
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Atelevision era has ended. Last Friday night’s “Blue Bloods” episode was the last. It has been canceled by CBS despite having consistently high ratings and, in my opinion, having been the best show on television during its 14-season run on the network. I don’t profess to be a media critic, but I am a lifelong New Yorker who appreciated the firstclass acting of a cast led by Tom Selleck, and the show’s proud espousal of support for the police and its advocacy of traditional family values.
“Blue Bloods” focuses on four generations of the Reagan family in New York law enforcement — the “Reagan family business.” Frank Reagan, played by Selleck, is the NYPD commissioner. His father, Henry, is a former commissioner. His sons, Danny, a detective, and Jamie,
a sergeant, as well as Jamie’s wife, Janko, are all NYPD, and his daughter, Erin, is a prosecutor in the district attorney’s office. An older son, Joe, was killed in the line of duty. His son, Joe Hill, previously unknown to the family, recently appeared on the NYPD scene using his mother’s last name.
Besides the expected emphasis on crime solving, “Blue Bloods” shows the realities of cops’ lives and the impact that those often harsh realities have on their families’ day-to-day lives. Unlike almost every other crime drama series, “Blue Bloods” never succumbed to political or corporate pressure to portray cops in a negative light, even at the height (or the depth) of the Defund the Police movement, which was all the rage in 2020.
consequences, including being secondguessed by critics who have never had to confront professional killers, violent drug dealers or crazed madmen.
W as it canceled for resisting corporate pressure to be more ‘woke’?
Not that it shows cops to be perfect. Just human — people who are willing to put their lives on the line for all the rest of us. People who have to make lifechanging decisions and live with the
iAs a recent Newsday story pointed out, “Blue Bloods” has a particularly strong following on Long Island, where many police officers and their families and friends live, as well as the many thousands of commuters who regularly travel to the city for work or entertainment.
I admit to having a bias. My father was a member of the NYPD for more than three decades before he retired as a lieutenant. I also have friends who have been officers in the NYPD as well as the Nassau and Suffolk County police departments. It was most impactful to be able to closely observe police work during my 18 years on the House Homeland Security Committee.
I had the chance to meet the “Blue Bloods” cast during several visits to their studio in Brooklyn, where they filmed the Sunday-family-dinner scenes,
and other shooting locations on Long Island. All are outstanding people, especially Selleck; Donnie Wahlberg, who played Danny; and Will Estes, who played Jamie. So, too, is Steve Schirripa (Anthony Abetemarco), whom I’d met before, a great guy who’s as genuine as the investigator he plays on the show.
Believe me, I’m not a star-struck guy. Being in public life, I’ve met a number of famous people and celebrities who are jerks. The “Blue Bloods” guys are the real deal.
The unanswered question is why CBS canceled a show that had consistently positive ratings for so many seasons and such a loyal, supportive fan base. Was it because “Blue Bloods” resisted corporate pressure to be more progressive and ‘woke’? Were its traditional values, exemplified by support for the police, the family dinner and strong patriotism, too out of touch for some of its advertisers? No matter. “Blue Bloods” fans will always have the memories.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
n case you’re still counting, Election Day happened six weeks ago, and all of the post-mortems on both sides reached the same conclusion: The No. 1 issue for voters was the economy, and the Democrats failed to pay attention to that issue, even though James Carville has been telling his party that “It’s the economy, stupid,” since 1992.
As we approach a new year, nothing has changed. The voters voted their pocketbooks, and they will judge all national and state politicians by what they do to ease people’s financial tensions. Incoming President Donald Trump says he hasn’t forgotten about his promise to cut the price of basic necessities, and his legacy will be judged by the promises he will keep.
Gov. Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, has gotten the message, and will propose a 2025 budget that will be loaded with pro-
grams to help wage earners on many levels. Her first salvo into the coming year is an interesting one. She wants to give every family that makes less than $300,000 a check from the state for $500, and individuals who make less than $150,000 a onetime payment of $300.
Fiscal conservatives and budget hawks jumped on the plan with all kinds of criticism, but it will take more than a few barbs to kill Hochul’s one-shot anti-inflation proposal. Why is this plan being proposed, and where would the money come from?
when she announces her proposed budget in late January. Every one of the ideas in her plan will be aimed at saving people money.
s he’ll propose a 2025 budget loaded with programs to help wage earners.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the state collected a bonanza of tax revenue. Housebound voters purchased billions of dollars’ worth of necessities, and the state was the beneficiary. Those funds are sitting in some budget account, and if the governor doesn’t spend them first, the State Legislature surely will.
The rebate proposal is just one of many taxpayer benefits that Hochul will announce. There are numerous ways to reward consumers, and the governor can be the first one to offer them
Aside from the fact that Hochul is paying attention to the message of this year’s election, she is also keeping an eye on the political calendar. She will be seeking re-election in 2026, and now is as good a time as ever to make proposals that appeal to the average voter. The timing is important, because there are always a few ambitious Democrats who think they can do a better job, as well as some Republicans who are looking for promotions.
Even New York City Mayor Eric Adams has climbed on the tax-cutting bandwagon. He has proposed a modest cut for people on the lowest rung of the income ladder, but a check in the mail can be a much more potent gift for a voter in 2025.
Is a rebate check a new political idea? Some years back, when the state was running the Long Island Lighting Company, then Gov. George Pataki
approved a one-time payment for utility customers. It was an instant hit. Are there many ways to put money in voters’ wallets? From personal experience, I can think of a few. While serving as chair of the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee, I Iearned a lot about sales taxes. New York’s tax laws cover thousands of day-to-day household items. Some of those taxes could be eliminated, and consumers would know very quickly why their expenses went down. The flip side of sales tax cuts is that they cost the state money, but if there’s money in the cupboard, why not spend it?
In the weeks ahead, New York voters will be romanced with one proposal after another. The trick for the governor is to be the first one to come up new ideas that the Legislature will have a hard time rejecting. It’s time for the state to start giving back, even if that comes in small pieces.
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.
n a decision that has left many Long Island journalists and educators dismayed, Suffolk County Community College has chosen to eliminate its journalism major.
The move, characterized as a cost-cutting measure in response to declining enrollment and the purportedly dim career prospects of students who study journalism, is not only shortsighted, but runs counter to the college’s mission of preparing students to transfer to fouryear institutions where they can follow their chosen paths to future success.
For years, SCCC has prided itself on serving as a launching pad for students aiming to continue their education at schools such as Adelphi, Hofstra and Stony Brook universities — institutions with thriving journalism and communications programs. Suffolk’s own commercials proclaim how proud the school is to propel two-year students to fouryear schools.
Journalism is not only a viable academic path at these schools; it is also a critical discipline that is nothing less than the backbone of a functioning democracy. By shuttering the journalism major, SCCC sends a troubling message about the value it places on media literacy, civic engagement and students’ preparation for essential careers in public service, accountability and compelling storytelling.
The college’s decision is proving to be a controversial one, given that it came despite opposition from SCCC’s own faculty. In three separate votes, educators overwhelmingly rejected the proposal to discontinue the program. Such strong opposition suggests that those closest to
To the Editor:
the educational process, who teach, mentor and advise students, understand the importance of maintaining a journalism program, even at a time when there couldn’t be more challenges for the profession.
The executive dean ultimately overrode those votes, citing enrollment declines and data from the New York State Department of Labor projecting limited growth in journalism jobs.
Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, however, show a more robust industry despite the decline in the number and readership of newspapers. The SCCC decision fails to account for the evolving nature of journalism and its continued relevance in a mediasaturated world. The field is not disappearing; it is being transformed, and students deserve the opportunity to learn the skills needed to adapt to this new media landscape.
Content creation, social media management, podcasting, multimedia reporting and data journalism are just a few of the avenues now available to those with a foundation in journalism. Furthermore, the skills taught in a journalism program — writing, research, critical thinking and ethical reasoning — are transferable to a wide range of careers.
As it happens, the State University of New York has a system-wide community journalism program, the Institute for Local News, that provides students with real-world experience at local media outlets. Ironically, SCCC is the largest college by enrollment in the SUNY system. And we should note that its sister school, Nassau Community College, also offers journalism classes, but has no
If you haven’t heard, it seems a state appeals court has found that Nassau County has been adding illegal fees to red-light-camera tickets over the past 10 years — $100 on a $150 ticket. Ouch. I know — just like you, I’m shocked. Shocked, I tell ya. OK, not really.
But here’s the thing: Some of our dear legislators don’t wanna give back the money that was taken from us! Yeah, another shock.
I guess we’ll just see how that little bit of business plays out, but there is one more thing I’d like to bring up again. One of the biggest complaints about the redlight cams is the rear-end collisions they cause. Not being one to complain without offering a solution, I’d like to re-introduce my simple solution that would solve the problem immediately. Simple countdown clocks! There is absolutely no excuse why there shouldn’t be one hanging from every traffic light at a
journalism major.
The Herald Community Newspapers have for years invited journalism students from colleges across Long Island to work as interns, and the company is currently in partnership with Hofstra on a program in which students will join forces with Herald journalists on a series of stories, as well as with Stony Brook’s Working Newsroom, in which students will pitch and write stories. All of the stories will be published in the Heralds.
SCCC is targeting other programs and majors that fail to meet certain enrollment and job market criteria, and those decisions signal a troubling trend of prioritizing short-term metrics over longterm educational value. While budget constraints are an undeniable reality for most institutions, their decisions about academic programs should be guided by more than just numbers. They should reflect a commitment to the colleges’ missions and to the needs of their students.
If SCCC is truly committed to preparing students for transfer and future success, it must reconsider the elimination of its journalism major. A flourishing journalism program would not only support the college’s academic reputation, but also affirm its dedication to producing graduates who are informed, articulate and passionate about engaging with the world.
Bottom-line-focused decisions may balance budgets in the moment, but they risk undermining the broader purpose of education: to prepare students not only for jobs but also for meaningful, informed lives.
after Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed the Planned offshore Wind Transmission act last fall due to local opposition to a wind farm’s high-voltage cables, the state had a trick up its sleeve.
The bill would have required the State energy research and development authority to establish transmission planning for the offshore grid, coupled with a requirement to conduct a costbenefit analysis that included the impact on ratepayers. In essence, the bill would have, for the first time, given new Yorkers insight into the true cost of implementing offshore wind projects and their transmission lines.
The question is, why did Hochul veto the bill? In addition to local opposition, I believe the answer is that if the public knew the true cost of these plans, people would begin to question the wisdom of investing millions of dollars in reworking a power grid that wasn’t broken in the first place. They would ask hard questions about where money was being spent, and who was benefiting — questions the governor obviously doesn’t
want raised.
In its infinite surreptitious reach, the state concealed in its latest budget the renewable action through Project Interconnection deployment, or raPId, act, granting it the authority to overrule local and public input. The state office of renewable energy Siting would have final say on project siting, even over community objections.
iGroups of so-called environmentalists, influenced by Hochul’s green agenda, have received millions of dollars to push the narrative that we need to move off fossil fuels now because the earth is on fire. Before we go scorched-earth, Let’s look at facts.
ties in residential and commercial areas.
t’s a mistake to plan for wide-scale solar and wind power in New York at this point.
The state took away local municipality and public involvement in the siting of renewable-energy projects and paused congestion pricing. Further, a report by the state’s Fire Safety Working Group falsely concluded that fires last year at three battery energy storage system facilities in new York state — which store the energy that wind turbines create — had no environmental impact, neglecting to include test results of hydrogen fluoride levels in the air, soil or water at those sites. What is even more disturbing is that the working group has written an inadequate code that allows for placement of BeSS facili-
red-light-cam intersection. Problem solved. You’re welcome.
Fred GeFen Woodmere
To the editor:
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peter King’s column “ remembering Jimmy Breslin, a legend in n ew York journalism” (dec. 5-11). It brought back so many memories. Breslin used to call my late husband, Marvin Bernstein, every Sunday night for the news about the nassau County Supreme Court. Marvin was the public information officer at the courthouse, and Jimmy kept him busy! Thanks for the column, Mr. King!
SandY BernSTeIn East Meadow
To the editor:
Las Vegas Sands’ proposal for an
Long Island water comes from aquifers that, if polluted, would jeopardize the health of millions. Hydrogen fluoride gas produced in these fires turns acidic when mixed with water, becoming acid rain. This acid, in large enough concentrations, can dissolve concrete. Would you or your children want to drink water this contaminated? apparently, Hochul doesn’t care about such consequences in her drive to rapidly implement greenenergy projects.
This act-now-and-monitor-later mentality, regardless of the consequences, does nothing to put minds at ease. To date, no robust engineering analysis suggests that Hochul’s raPId act plan will work. There has been no rigorous analysis. Instead, evidence seems to indicate that the state’s planned installations of solar arrays, wind turbines, battery facilities and transmission cables will not reliably power the grid, and will not prove safe or affordable.
Worth noting, in this critical context, is the Vineyard Wind offshore debacle off the coast of nantucket last July, when a single turbine blade selfdestructed, dropping 60 tons of plastic into the ocean and wreaking havoc, clos-
ing beaches and impacting marine life, fishing, local businesses and communities. How future offshore wind catastrophes will affect shore towns, wildlife and commercial fishing isn’t known. But new Yorkers should realize that it’s a mistake, at this point, to plan the construction, let alone the funding, for dozens of gigawatts of solar and wind power — along with batteries 100 times the size of the world’s largest existing battery — and new transmission lines to tie all this to the existing grid.
Instead, we might better ask, first, who thought this was possible? and second, from empirical examples of places with significant intermittent energy — California and Germany — why did anyone think this would enable new York to cut fossil-fuel use and reliably and affordably power the grid?
Given the egregious overreach of Hochul’s raPId act, there should be an immediate halt to all of the office of renewable energy Siting work as well as a prohibition on placing any renewable-energy facilities within residential communities and near schools. Taxpayers don’t want to be the subjects of a large-scale energy experiment, or a class-action lawsuit, as a result of the “next big idea.”
Christina Kramer, a professional photographer and an adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology, is the founder and president of Protect Our Coast – Long Island, New York.
integrated casino-resort in the n assau County Hub a very bad idea. r ight location, wrong project! a re the risks to our suburban lifestyle and environment worth the grossly exaggerated benefits projected? There were so many assumptions in the draft environment impact statement, and so much information omitted.
I am strongly opposed to the proposed project at the Hub. There are better alternatives that would benefit all n assau County residents, but the people we rely on to protect our interests and preserve our suburban way of life are looking for a quick fix. They will bankrupt your future in more ways than you could imagine.
Hard rock’s application to develop Citi Field has been approved by local community boards. Much better location, very accessible public transportation and a much better independent operator than Sands. That “Metropolitan Park,” if built, would compete with Sands and other downstate casinos for the same pool of gamblers and people seeking entertainment options. Somebody’s going to lose, and it will be the residents of n assau County.
anTHonY BranCaTo East Meadow
