HERALD UNIONDALE
Learning that reading is fun Page 3
costing $10 million.
BEACON BEACON
Town to replace water tower
Uniondale project will total $10 million
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdlessandro@liherald.com
After 70 years of use, Uniondale’s water tower will be replaced with a new structure.
The tower, built in 1955, required frequent and expensive maintenance due to its age.
Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin explained that the town’s previous plan — repairing the existing tower for $9 million — would cost nearly as much as building a new one.
“Maintaining our drinking water infrastructure is a crucial part of protecting our town’s public health,” Clavin said at a Jan. 21 news conference. “As this water tower grows older, it requires more work and money to make sure it can continue serving its community, and it’s time for a change.”
The new tower, made of concrete and composite steel, will be built using weather-resistant construction techniques to make it easier to maintain. It will be able to serve Uniondale for generations to come, Claivn said.
The town plans to begin construction this summer, and the tower will be fully operational in 2027. Its reconstruction is a part of the town’s $225 million investment in its water sys -
tems, in addition to $85 million in federal and state grants. Other water quality improvement projects include the addition of multiple advanced oxidation process and granular activated carbon treatment systems to its waterways, designed to treat contaminants coming out of ground water. The town is also pursuing litigation against the polluters who created a need for pollution-treatment plants.
“We take pride in our town’s efforts to be proactive in maintaining our ability to provide residents with efficient and effective water service,” Clavin said. “These projects all focus around ensuring that our drinking water remains of the highest quality and at the lowest cost possible to ratepayers.” Community organizations in Uniondale have advocated for a new water tower for years. Pearl Jacobs has been president of Nostrand Gardens Civic Association for almost a decade.
“I really became involved with civic engagement because of the disparity, inequality and lack of investment in Uniondale, which was, and to some extent still is, an underserved community,” Jacobs said.
During her years as a community activist, she has ConTinUed on page 2
Kelsie Radziski/Herald
The 70-year-old water tower in Uniondale will be replaced by 2027 in a Town of Hempstead project
New water infrastructure coming to Uniondale by 2027
attended town meetings, organized with local groups and supported policies to improve the lives of people in Uniondale. She has focused on improving the community’s water supply for over four years, and said she wouldn’t stop anytime soon.
The effort to have the water tower replaced “was a long fight,” Jacobs said. “Uniondale is a community that you have to advocate for. We pay our taxes, and we deserve equal treatment, just like every other community.”
Jeannine Maynard, co-facilitator of the Greater Uniondale Area Action Coalition and vice president of the Uniondale Land Trust, was one of the community leaders who advocated for improvements in local water safety.
“We’re celebrating,” Maynard said. “We fought so hard that it would be replaced, and now it is being replaced. The community is going to be watching and tracking the changes, whether it comes in with the proper filters. We’re going to be looking at the quality of the work.”
The need for a new tower was made more urgent by ongoing studies of pollutants such as PFAs — known as “forever chemicals” — and possible carcinogens such as dioxane, which can make their way into groundwater. The old tower does not meet the new safety standards required to address these problems, Maynard said.
“The community has always been invested in having environmental con ditions investigated, aired out and then certainly responded to,” she said. “This water tower has been in derelict condi
Don’t miss out and apply
tion for many, many years. I think it was 24 years since the last real atten tion had been given to the tower, and since then it’s become rusted, and there’s evidence of leaking.”
For more information or to apply in person please contact Mr. Luis Bocanegra, Sheyla Santana or Jeannie Tembra at (516) 226-8681, Ext. 251, 248 or 249 or via email
Courtesy Town of Hempstead
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, left, Councilman Thomas Muscarella, Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr., Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby and Water Commissioner John Reinhardt announced that Uniondale’s water tower would be replaced at a news conference on Jan. 21.
Lawrence Road read-a-thon promotes literacy and charity
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Sixth grade students at Lawrence Road Middle School are taking part in a new reading initiative aimed at fostering a love of reading while giving back to the community. The school kicked off its new “Read-a-Thon” with a weeklong celebration of reading.
The initiative, which began on Jan. 21, encourages students to seek sponsors for the minutes they read over the next two months, with a goal of reaching 160,000 minutes grade-wide by March 21, Sarah Di Russo, reading teacher at Lawrence Road, said. The funds that are raised will be donated to the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, an organization that helps those experiencing homelessness, as well as assisting Lawrence Road students currently facing difficult circumstances.
“We’re focusing on the sixth grade to build a community of readers, and we also wanted to come up with an idea of giving back to the community,” Di Russo said. “So we are doing the Reada-Thon also where they are able to get sponsors for their reading and collect money that we will donate to both the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, as well as for our own students at Lawrence road that are currently experiencing hard times.”
As part of the introductory Reading for a Cause Kick-Off Week, students were introduced to reading logs and given the chance to join a book talk with principal Mark McCaw, who is leading a discussion on the novel “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds. Students were encouraged to dress up as their favorite literary characters on Wednesday, where costumes ranged from Harry Potter to Percy Jackson characters.
On Thursday, former Harlem Globetrotter Corey “The Dribbler” Rich joined the students for an inspiring presentation about his journey to professional basketball. He emphasized the importance of reading, personal integrity and hard work to the students, according to Di Russo, sharing how he
achieved his dream of joining the Harlem Globetrotters through not only his devotion to basketball, but also through being a good person and giving back to the community.
“So he really was trying to instill the reading and being a good person into all of the students,” Di Russo said. “It was one of the best assemblies that I’ve ever seen here at Lawrence Road.”
The week culminated with a school-wide “Drop
We’re focusing on the sixth grade to build a community of readers.
SARAh DI RuSSo Reading teacher Lawrence Road Middle School
Everything and Read” session on Friday afternoon, where all students took 20 minutes to read for enjoyment.
The initiative welcomes friendly competition. The sixth-grade classes are competing against each other to read the most minutes, with the winning class receiving a party of their choice, whether it be pizza or ice cream.
This year marks the first time the school has implemented the reading fund -
raiser, but Di Russo said the school hopes that it will grow in future years to include more grade levels.
“We are hoping to build upon it and to do it with sixth grade and seventh grade next year, so that this could be something that we do every year,” she said.
The Read-a-Thon will run through March 21, with students encouraged to continue tracking their reading progress and fundraising efforts. A progress thermometer will be displayed in the school lobby to keep everyone motivated and informed of how close they are to reaching their collective goal.
Photos courtesy Uniondale school district
Corey ‘the Dribbler’ Rich visited Lawrence Road Middle School on Jan. 23 during Reading for a Cause Kick-Off Week to speak and take selfies with the students.
Leigh Sumter, assistant principal, left, Corey ‘the Dribbler’ Rich, Adeola TellaWilliams, dean of students and academic services, and Mark McCaw, principal. During his motivational presentation, the Dribbler showed off some of his basketball tricks.
Suit settled, Nassau County is redistricted
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Heading into an election year for all 19 Nassau County legislative districts, the lines have been redrawn after a lawsuit that originated in 2023 was settled last Friday.
The agreed-on new districts are considered a victory for Democrats.
“This is a tremendous victory for Nassau County,” Jay Jacobs, the New York state and Nassau County Democratic Committee chairman, stated in a news release. “The illegal map sought to disenfranchise communities of color and undermine our democratic principles. This settlement reinforces the fundamental rights of all voters and sends a clear message that such tactics will not be tolerated.”
County Democrats, along with 21 plaintiffs from throughout the legislative districts, filed the lawsuit, alleging that before they were redrawn, the districts were racist, gerrymandered and gave an unfair advantage to Republicans, who hold majority control in the Legislature.
The suit also claimed that voters leaning in one direction were being packed into two districts, while the rest were spread out in other districts as a way to “dilute their voting strength.”
“Once again, the Republican majority in the Nassau County Legislature did
something that was unconstitutional by imposing legislative lines that were unconstitutional,” County Legislator Carrié Solages, who now represents a district similar to when he was first elected in 2011, said. “I am very thankful to the Democratic Party for assembling a team of attorneys, experts on maps and data from across the country, at a cost of well over half a million dollars, in order to fight for a fair, legal map in Nassau County.”
Under the terms of the settlement:
■ The illegal redistricting map is nullified, addressing violations of the New York Voting Rights Act and Municipal Home Rule Law.
■ A new, fairer legislative map is established, including six majority-minority districts and an Asian Influence District, a substantial increase from the prior four majority-minority districts.
■ The voices of Black, Latino and Asian communities are amplified, ensuring that communities of color can elect candidates who represent their interests.
“After long negotiations, Republican attempts to change venue and even disqualify the judge presiding over the case, the Democrats arrived at a map that is fair and creates the opportunity for historic six minority majority districts,” Solages said.
The districts on the new map
District 1: Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, South Hempstead, and portions of Baldwin and Hempstead.
District 2: Carle Place, New Cassel, Westbury, and portions of Hempstead, Uniondale, Hicksville and Jericho.
District 3: Elmont, Lakeview, Bellerose, Bellerose Terrace, South Floral Park, Malverne Park Oaks, and portions of Malverne, Valley Stream, North Valley Stream, West Hempstead and Franklin Square.
District 4: Long Beach, Lido Beach, East Atlantic Beach, Island Park, Harbor Isle, Barnum Island, Point Lookout and portions of Oceanside.
District 5: Portions of Hempstead, Uniondale, West Hempstead and Franklin Square.
District 6: Freeport, and portions of Baldwin and Oceanside.
District 7: Atlantic Beach, Bay Park, Cedarhurst, East Rockaway, Hewlett, Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Harbor, Hewlett Neck, Inwood, Lawrence, Woodmere, Woodsburgh, and portions of Oceanside, South Valley Stream and Valley Stream.
District 8: Garden City, Garden City South, Stewart Manor, and portions of Floral Park, Franklin Square, New Hyde Park and North New Hyde Park.
District 9: Mineola, East Williston, Garden City Park, Herricks, Manhasset Hills, North Hills, and portions of Floral Park, New Hyde Park, North New Hyde Park, Searingtown and Williston Park.
District 10: Albertson, Flower Hill, Great Neck, Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Gardens, Great Neck Plaza, Harbor Hills, Kensington, Kings Point, Lake Success, Manhasset, Munsey
Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, Roslyn Estates, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Saddle Rock Estates, Thomaston, University Gardens, and portions of Roslyn Heights, Searingtown and Williston Park.
District 11: Baxter Estates, Glen Cove, Glenwood Landing, Manorhaven, Port Washington, Port Washington North, Roslyn Harbor, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, and portions of Glen Head.
District 12: Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore, North Merrick, and portions of Wantagh.
District 13: East Meadow, Salisbury, and portions of Levittown
District 14: Lynbrook, North Lynbrook, and portions of Valley Stream, North Valley Stream, Malverne and South Valley Stream.
District 15: North Wantagh, Seaford, and portions of Levittown and Wantagh.
District 16: Farmingdale, Old Bethpage, Plainview, and portions of Hicksville, Jericho, Syosset and Woodbury.
District 17: Bethpage, Plainedge, South Farmingdale, and portions of Hicksville and North Massapequa.
District 18: Bayville, Brookville, Centre Island, Cove Neck, East Hills, East Norwich, Greenvale, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, and portions of Glen Head and Jericho.
District 19: East Massapequa, Massapequa, Massapequa Park, and portions of North Massapequa.
BRADY DELVALLE
V.S. South Senior Basketball
IT WAS A HISTORIC night for DelValle Jan. 17 when Valley Stream South faced Wantagh. The two-time All-County guard reached the 1,000point career milestone in the Falcons’ hardfought defeat. He also assumed the top spot in Nassau County this season for 3-pointers made with 44. A captain, he is averaging 17.4 points per game, which ranks him in the Top 20 in Nassau, and scored in double figures in all but one of the Falcons’ first 14 games.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Jan. 30
Gymnastics: South Side at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Port Wash at Farmingdale 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Manhasset at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Oceanside at Freeport 6 p.m.
Gymnastics: Lynbrook at North Shore 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Baldwin 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Clarke at Hewlett 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Locust Valley at East Rockaway 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 31
Boys Basketball: Syosset at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Lawrence at Plainedge 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Massapequa 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Herricks at Mepham 7 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 1
Boys Basketball: Wantagh at Plainedge 12 p.m.
Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North 12 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Carle Place at West Hempstead 12 p.m.
Girls Basketball: V.S. North at V.S. South 12 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 3
Boys Basketball: Calhoun at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Long Beach at Calhoun 5:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Farmingdale at Massapequa 7 p.m.
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.
HERALD SPORTS
Wins boost Uniondale’s confidence
By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com
Playing and beating the four-time defending Nassau Class AAA boys’ basketball champions, Baldwin, by one possession 61-58, in the Richard Brown Classic Jan. 19 was a pretty sweet feeling for Uniondale.
Starting the last week of January 9-5 overall and 6-1 in conference play, it’s all about appreciating what the Knights have done but keeping the ball moving regardless of outside factors.
“We were the underdogs, it was a nail-biter kind of a game, going back and forth,” Uniondale head coach Jaaz Styles. “One of those rivalry games where the crowd’s into it. We were the home team so it was good to have the home crowd behind us.”
The bench showed out the most, with freshman guard Mori Toney putting up 18 points and senior guard Dion Morris contributing 13, for the two to combine for over half of the offensive production.
“When Dion and Mori came into the game, they came in guns blazing right away, so it wasn’t necessarily hard to keep them out there,” Styles said. “They made it pretty easy to ride the wave, if you will.”
Starting sophomore guard Dylan Hickman came up big for Uniondale with 17 points and five assists. The emphasis goes on the seven points Hickman put up in the fourth quarter, enough to be the paradigm shift to pull off the underdog win.
Last Friday, all of these players contributed in
Uniondale’s 62-42 win over cross-town rival Hempstead. Hickman and Morris both had 16 points, Morris including four three-pointers, and Toney had 13 points total. Darren Brown put up seven points, with Jaden Owen and Nisich James contributing four points each.
With this, the Knights were reinvigorated after the last set of wins.
“Most of those guys, we lost to Baldwin last year in the playoffs, first round, so most of them were part of that team, so they kind of felt like there was a chip on their shoulder to get this one,” Styles said. “Especially since they’re not in our conference this year, so we won’t get the chance to see them again, so we just wanted to take care of the opportunity.”
Right now, with nothing but league play left, now it’s about hunkering down with what works. “Use our length and our athleticism,” Styles said. “We’re a tall and athletic team and when we use that to our abilities and our strengths, we should be okay. We should force some turnovers, hit dunks and layups, that will help us get the job done.”
While the offense is bustling and moving, the other side of the ball is as important.
“Defensively we do pretty well, we force teams into a lot of turnovers,” Styles said, adding the fact that his squad pushed Baldwin to commit 17 turnovers. “[Practice is] very intense and very intentional, especially when we’re watching film.”
Erik Lee/Herald
Sophomore Dylan Hickman piled up 17 points and 5 assists Jan. 19 as the Knights defeated four-time reigning county champion Baldwin in a nailbiter.
New state tax credit for small businesses introduced
By MADELEINE ROSEN Special to the Herald
The Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act would provide small businesses with up to $4,000 for marketing in community media.
Small businesses in Uniondale might soon be receiving some muchneeded financial relief.
Earlier this month, State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblywoman Jen Lunsford introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act, which would establish a new $10 million tax credit for small businesses advertising in local media outlets.
The LOCAL Act aims to support the marketing needs of small businesses — especially those that are minority-, woman- or veteran-owned, or that have 10 employees or fewer — while keeping investment in the media outlets that New Yorkers rely on everyday for critical information.
“This legislation fosters a cycle of growth, allowing small businesses to expand their reach while simultaneously supporting the media outlets that keep New Yorkers informed and engaged,” Martinez, the bill’s Senate sponsor, said.
The legislation has already garnered staunch support from the media and business community alike. Led by The Empire State Local News Coalition, which is composed of over 200 local
newspapers across New York — including the Uniondale Herald Beacon — the bill has received praise from business trade groups throughout the state, which view the proposal as a solution to increase investment in small businesses and sustain local news organizations. “The LOCAL Act is a win-winwin for local businesses, local news, and local communities,” Zachary Richner, founding member of the Empire State Local News Coalition, said.
“These institutions are intricately connected and work together to create the vibrant communities that New Yorkers love.”
The bill comes as the 2025 Legislative Session kicks off and negotiations begin on the State’s next fiscal year budget, which must be passed by both the Senate and Assembly and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul by April 1. The tax credit would need to be included in the state’s final spending plan.
“The LOCAL Act is about more than just advertising – it’s about investing in the economic health of our local communities and investing in the kind of local journalism that we need now more than ever,” Martinez’ fellow bill sponsor, Lunsford, said.
Under the LOCAL Act, a minority-, woman- or veteran-owned business, as well as any business with 10 employees or fewer, would be eligible to receive a refundable tax credit of 80 percent of its first $5,000 of local advertising for a maximum credit of $4,000 per year. The program would be capped at $10 million annually.
“By making community advertising for small businesses more accessible and affordable, this proposed act will help them with their marketing strategy and customer engagement while simultaneously supporting local media outlets, which are also small companies,” said Matt Cohen, Long Island Association president and CEO. “The legislation is a win-win, and we look forward to its passage this session.”
“We are excited to support local businesses,” said Stuart Richner, president of Richner Communications Inc. “By making advertising more accessible and affordable, the LOCAL Act will empower Long Island’s small businesses to reach new customers while ensuring that our local media outlets continue to connect and inform our residents.”
Kelsie Radziski/Herald
The Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act would provide small businesses such as D&D Daycare in Uniondale with up to $4,000
Hempstead board stresses ‘school is a safe space’
The Board of Education for Hempstead Public Schools has issued a statement to reassure parents who are concerned about President Donald Trump’s deportation policies.
Hempstead school board President Victor Pratt emphasized the district’s unwavering commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of all students, regardless of their circumstances.
“‘Our top priority is ensuring that every student feels safe and supported while attending school,’ Pratt said in the statement, noting that “the law states that school is a safe space.”
“To that end, the district is working with its legal counsel to ensure compliance with federal law, the New York State Education Department’s guidance document labeled ‘New York State Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students,’ and Board of Education policy,” he added in the statement.
“The district is scheduling training with its administrators on how to handle law enforcement inquiries and visits at Hempstead schools,” according to the statement
The “New York State Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students” specifically states, with regard to student registration, that, “The U.S. Supreme Court has … long held that students may not be denied a free public education based on their immigration status or that of their parents or guardians.”
More germane to parental fears about children’s immigration status, “Schools are also prohibited from requesting a Social Security Card or number, or any information that would reveal immigration status at the time of enrollment. And
Millions of fans tuned in to watch the College Football Playoff National Championship on Jan. 20, where the Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in Atlanta.
Beyond the spotlight on the players, two coaches with strong ties to Long Island and Nassau Community College played pivotal roles in Ohio State’s success.
Mike Sollenne, a native of Massapequa, and Sean Binckes, from Brooklyn, both serve as offensive graduate assistants at Ohio State. Before reaching the national stage, they honed their coaching skills and made significant contributions to the football program at Nassau Community College.
Sollenne’s journey began in Massapequa and continued through his role at NCC, where he served as the offensive line coach and run game coordinator from 2016 to 2018. His leadership helped develop NCC players and prepare them for the next level.
A proud graduate of LIU Post with a degree in physical education, Sollenne furthered his education with a master’s degree in sports management from the University of Florida.
of
the
of
schools must immediately enroll migrant and unhoused students even if they lack proof of residency, immunizations, school records, or other documents typically required for registration.”
The federal Family Education and Privacy Rights Act of 1974 holds that immigration status cannot be disclosed to federal or local law enforcement without parental consent, and only in very limited legal circumstances.
If requests for immigration status, or for any other personally identifiable information, are made to the school district, the school administration is not to hand it over. Instead, the school administration should ask for the subpoena or documentation on which the request is based, and if the documentation is received, the administration should contact the school attorney before doing anything further.
— Reine Bethany
both began their football coaching careers at Nassau Community
and served as offensive graduate assistants at Ohio State.
Binckes kicked off his coaching career at NCC in 2016 as a wide receivers coach and quickly expanded his roles to include offensive coordinator, strength and conditioning coach, and later, offensive line coach in 2019.
A former standout tight end at LIU Post from 2012 to 2016, earned a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from the university and a master’s degree in recreation and sports management from Florida International University.
—
Jeffrey Bessen
Courtesy Reine Bethany
Hempstead School Board President Victor Pratt issued a statement to reassure parents
student protection in the face
stepped-up deportation efforts by
Trump administration.
Courtesy NCC
Mike Sollenne, left, and Sean Binckes
College
Court backs county transgender sports ban
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
New York State Supreme Court Judge Bruce Cozzens last week denied a request by the Long Island Roller Rebels, a women’s recreational roller derby league, to temporarily block a Nassau County law that restricts sports teams from using county facilities based on biological sex.
The Roller Rebels argued that Local Law 121-24 discriminates against transgender women by preventing them from participating in women’s sports. The league sought a preliminary injunction to stop the law’s enforcement while its lawsuit challenging the law continues.
The Long Island Roller Rebels are members of the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association, which “welcomes all transgender women, intersex women, and gender expansive women to participate in its member leagues. The sex assigned at birth of any and all WFTDA participants is considered confidential and private,” according to court documents.
“I’m very happy that … Cozzens ruled that Nassau County’s local law banning biological males from playing on female sports teams is constitutional and that we did abide by the law,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. “I’m gratified that we were the first in America to do it, and I think we set the tone for the rest of the nation.”
In a 12-6 vote along party lines, the County Legislature passed a bill on June 24 that bans individuals who were born male from taking part in women’s sports and on county-run facilities, regardless of their gender identity.
The county claimed the law was enacted to ensure fairness and safety in sports for biological women, and
argued that federal Title IX regulations protecting women’s sports support its position.
The court ruled that the Roller Rebels failed to prove that the law discriminates against transgender individuals under the state’s Human Rights Law or Civil Rights Law. Cozzens noted that the law does not ban transgender people from participating in sports, but requires leagues to designate teams as male, female or co-ed.
In his decision, he emphasized the safety concerns and physical differences between biological men and women, particularly in contact sports like roller derby. The judge also highlighted the county’s responsibility to use public facilities in ways that serve the majority of taxpayers.
“The power differential between adult individuals
who are born male and those born female is substantial and therefore may be more dangerous,” Cozzens’s decision read. “This would create additional risk to the individual and potential liability, creating costs to the municipality. The municipality is not obligated to provide a recreational setting for each and every individual residing within its confines.”
“As we’ve said all along, it’s just common sense,” Blakeman said. “Biological males should not play in female sports. They have a competitive advantage. It’s unfair, and it’s also unsafe.”
The ruling follows an executive order signed by President Trump on Jan. 20 that eliminated protections for transgender individuals, stating that the federal government would define sex strictly as male or female.
LICM celebrates Lunar New Year with culturally informed shows and activities
By Rei Wolfsohn Correspondent
To celebrate and inform children about the Lunar New Year the Long Island Children’s Museum brought together various Chinese cultural organizations on Jan. 28 and 29.
Many dances were performed each day, while several crafts were available for viewing or participating in. LICM even showed off a couple zodiac animals in their habitats.
The Asian population on Long Island is growing and Children Museum officials noted that 25 percent of its visitors are Asian.
“Lunar New Year is a major holiday in many Asian countries,” said Jeremy Wang, master of ceremonies. “China, Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. It’s actually a major holiday. Although, it doesn’t have any religious association — it’s simply a cultural and traditional holiday.”
Several dance groups from the Chinese Center on Long Island performed various traditional dances: Lion Dance, Xinjiang, Feitian, which means Flying in the Sky, and more, as well as vocal performances.
“It’s awesome,” said Chris Bartoldus, Lion Master. “They have such a passion for coming to the center, learning the language, and connecting with all their roots. We teach Lion Dance to kids ages five to 18, so all through their schooling. Some of them love it so much that they come back after college.”
Bartoldus has loved Lion Dancing since he was a kid.
“It teaches you a little bit of discipline, how to perform in front of a crowd. Five or six years ago I was asked to teach it, and never looked back.”
Lily Blecha, who served as an assistant Lion master volunteer, thinks that sharing Chinese culture during this time is important.
“It feels great to spread the culture, because during Covid we were marginalized…we were blamed for spreading the virus,” Blecha said. “So spreading this experience is just fulfilling.”
One of the other attractions was calligraphy — where a master wrote on a lucky red piece of paper for each child.
“We write fu,” said David Zhou, pres-
ident of the Fujian Artist Association which provided the artist-made crafts.
“In Chinese it has five meanings. Chinese culture has been going for 5,000 years. We send the message of good luck for everybody who comes here.”
Fujian also showed off Lina Liu, who has been sugar painting for nearly 40 years. She learned as an apprentice in China. Sugar painting is when a person takes melted sugar and draws a graphic with it and attaches it to a stick, to be admired and eaten by someone.
“It brings Chinese culture, like a flower or butterfly, to make them happy,” Liu said.
Most of the parents and children were most excited by the Lion Dance. For Roger Hsi, it was about sharing his own culture with his children.
“The first time for them to watch it, and being of Chinese heritage, it was nice for them to have that exposure,” he said.
Yet, some of the parents and children came to the museum with no knowledge that the Lunar New Year celebration was happening.
“We walked into the museum and we were surprised by a huge (lion) show. And we loved it. It was so colorful and the music was amazing, right?” Judith Gutman asked her daughter, Sophia.
“I like when they go up and down,” Sophia said as she looked at her twin Mia.
For some parents, the LICM is a refuge in the winter months.
“Unfortunately the weather is not allowing us to get outside, and we have to do something indoors,” said Rina Beach, who was accompanied by her grandchildren. “We come here all the time.”
Beach’s grandchildren loved making lanterns and necklaces.
“My granddaughter keeps telling us how beautiful everything she makes is,” Beach said as she laughed.
The entire celebration took about six months to plan.
“I think it just keeps growing with joy and happiness,” said Aimee Terzulli, vice president of the museum. “We want everybody to know that this is a town square, where we want all cultures and people to join together to learn about each other, and celebrate their traditions.”
Courtesy Long Island Children’s Museum Kids love it when the lions go above the dancers’ heads. It’s said to be lucky to touch the lions as they dance.
Courtesy Long Island Children’s Museum
Chinese Center on Long Island’s Lion Troupe at LICM
Rei Wolfsohn/Herald
Mr. Wu and Mr. Zhang create calligraphic art for LICM’s children
STEPPING OUT
madness takes over
By Danielle Schwab
When it comes to Monster Jam, go big or go home.
Those bigger-than-life behemoths gear up for a crushing competition
Witness the roar of eight monster trucks battle it out for the winning trophy at the fullthrottle competition with plenty of car-smashing, donut-wheeling and back-flipping action fans know and expect.
Monster Jam arrives at UBS Arena next weekend, Feb. 7-9, taking over Belmont Park for three days packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts. This isn’t just any event — it’s “As Big As It Gets.” where where every moment is unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable.
Both monster truck fanatics and first-time watchers will experience all the motorsport has to offer in a four-part competition ruled by these 12,000 pound mechanical beasts.
Drivers bring out all the stunts for the competition to the delight of spectators.
“Who doesn’t love big trucks crushing stuff, mjumping high in the air, rolling over and doing all the crazy stuff we do?” says Matt Cody, the longtime driver of Grave Digger and 2024 Arena Series West Champion.
• Friday through Sunday, Feb. 7-9; times vary
• Tickets available at ticketmaster.com
• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont
always my birthday present. I fell in love with it,” he says.
Starting at 13-years-old, Cody got involved with the event in every way possible — whether it was sweeping floors, cleaning trucks or driving the tractortrailers. His passion and hard work earned him a role as a mechanic for the show, eventually paving the way for him to become an official driver in 2012.
‘Easy come, easy go’ Queen-mania rocks on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. dynamic live performance showcasing signature four-part harmonies and intricate musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music. We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more.
Saturday Feb. 1, 8 p.m. $79.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
“From the atmosphere to the production to the people, it’s a big family and it’s a big family sport, everybody’s there to just have fun,” he adds.
Ten years later, Cody started driving the infamous Grave Digger — a 43 year global legend among monster trucks, sporting massive 66-inch tires.
“It’s just a big, bad machine,” Cody says.
Watch as these powerful trucks race for the fastest time, showcase their jaw-dropping skills with epic stunts — some of which are only on two wheels — in competitions of speed and skill. Also see the drivers unleash their trucks’ wild, untamed power in a thrilling freestyle showdown.
And of course, there’ll be plenty of monster-sized donuts to get heads-spinning as well.
This epic ride sports tombstones on its side “for the competitors that we’ve beaten and buried,” he explains.
Going head-to-head against Grave Digger are newcomers Plane Krazy and Krazy Train as well as a new fan favorite, Sparkle Smash, a giant blue-and-purple unicorn that’s sure to kick some butt.
Other trucks returning to claim victory are the always-popular Megalodon, Zombie, El Toro Loco, and Terminal Velocity.
South Shore Symphony
right in the middle of the action, helping to
To make it even more exciting, the judges’ panel includes the entire audience. Fans are right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the event champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves. Everyone gets a say in which truck triumphs with glory and eventually moves on to July’s Monster Jam World Finals.
It’s truly an unforgettable family affair, involving generations of families since Monster Jam’s start in 1992.
“I met so many awesome fans from over the years, dedicated fans who’ll bring their grandfather, the dad, and now son, to an event. And the grandfather will be like, ‘Yeah, I remember bringing my son.’ Even though I’m not the driver that may have been [there] at that time, they’ll take a picture just to recreate that,” Cody says.
“It’s just an awesome experience among the families and the memories that they’re making.”
All of this from the best seat in UBS Arena, which is every seat according to Cody.
“I tell people that in an arena as compared to a stadium, stadiums are cool, but in an arena, there’s not a bad seat in the house.”
Start off the action early. Fans can get a closer look at the trucks and meet the drivers at the exclusive Monster Jam Pit Party — or get revved up prior to the show with sneak peaks, giveways and extra action at the Monster Jam Trackside Experience.
Before taking over the driver’s seat, Cody’s Monster Jam journey began sitting in the audience of Monster Jam events as a kid. Cody, from Williamsport, Md., began to follow the sport at age 8. As a lifelong fan, he knows the thrills it offers to both fan and participant.
Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment
Before taking over the driver’s seat, lifelong fan, he knows the thrills it offers to both
Top left - Sparkle Smash, among the newcomers, joins El Toro Loco and the other trucks in nailing vertical 2-wheel tricks, among other feats.
Music Director Adam Glaser’s South Shore Symphony Orchestra welcomes the New Year with a rousing concert, titled “Heritage and Memory, at its Madison Theatre home. The orchestra is joined by guitarist Tali Roth. Originally from Israel, now based in the New York City area, she’ll be playing the beloved Rodrigo’s Concieto de Aranjuez. The evening’s repertoire also includes Humperdinck’s Prelude to the opera Hansel and Gretel. The charming composition is known for its sweetness and nostalgia to this piece that catches you off guard. Another, Mary Watkins’ Soul of Remembrance is becoming a staple in the orchestra repertoire, and deservedly so, according to Glaser. The program’s second half is devoted to Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 in D major.
“Monster Jam used to come every year. It was
Top right - Monster trucks reach epic heights in the latest edition of Monster Jam. Grave Digger, with Matty Cody (bottom left) and other popular trucks thrill fans in their customized high-power vehicles.
Saturday, Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.
Your Neighborhood
THE
Sheng Wang
With his signature laid-back style, as showcased in his Netflix special Sweet & Juicy produced and directed by Ali Wong, comedian, actor, and writer,
Sheng Wang brings his hilarious standup to the Paramount stage, Saturday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m.
Long-time comedian
Sheng Wang is truly coming into his own. Two decades of performing has taken him from doing stand-up for touristy audiences in New York unwilling to give an Asian American comedian the time of day to a successful Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy,” produced and directed by Ali Wong. Wang asks audiences to not only recognize the personhood of an Asian on stage but to find deep resonance with this person’s honest feelings. He mines comedy from the mundane, everyday parts of life — from the meditative ritual that is shopping at Costco to how to get maximum value from health insurance. Because he’s from Houston, Texas., Wang also speaks with a slight Southern drawl, giving a relaxed quality to his delivery.
He likens himself to “A Clown with Words.” Among his other credits, Wang was a featured standup on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and also wrote for the ABC show “Fresh Off the Boat.” Wang resides in L.A. and in his time off he enjoys exploring botanical gardens and discovering new ways to snack. $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
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, continuing 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 while bringing the Choral Society’s 24-25 concert season to an exciting close.
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.
Respite: A Lifeline for Individuals and Families
Respite is a flexible care service that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual and family. It can be a way to ease the burden of caring for a loved one. This virtual program is presented by the Family and Children’s Association Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Program, Thursday, Jan. 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., through the Uniondale Public Library. For more information or to register, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220. 400 Uniondale Ave.
Winter in the woods
Explore Sands Point Preserve in winter, with environmental educator Hildur Palsdottir, Saturday, Feb. 1, 10-11:30 a.m. She will engage participants ill engage audiences in handson nature discovery activities encompassing the preserve’s unique physical features and wildlife.
Conservation issues are also discussed on the walk through the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. $15 ($10 members), $5 children. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.
The Furry Forecaster
Visit Long Island Children’s Museum and share in some Groundhog Day fun, Saturday, Feb. 1, noon-2 p.m. Join in on the forecasting festivities and make a groundhog to take home, at the drop-in program. Will he emerge from his burrow and see his shadow or not? For ages 3 and up. Free with admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
By Danielle Schwab & Tim Baker
Sean Cirillo Oceanside
My 2025 resolution is to replace all my local car trips with walking and biking. Replacing these short trips that are typically done with a car is healthier, saves me money, better connects me to the community and I’m never stuck in traffic on a bike.
What is your major goal for 2025?
Mike
Ahl Babylon
I would like to get stronger. I ride my bike in Babylon. My average is 45 minutes to do 10 miles, and I want to get it under 40 minutes. I have two little boys, I want to be healthy for them.
David Friedman Hewlett
Definitely need a nice relaxing vacation somewhere warm. I haven’t been to Atlantis in many years, or maybe Italy. There are too many things to do and I’m getting older, so I need a vacation.
Sharon Edwards Merrick
Time management is definitely my resolution for this year. Last year really went by quickly; it was over and done. I have everything on one to-do list. I have a family that I want to spend some time with and then I have my business. I’m trying to balance everything.
Cliff
Krauter Bayville
I would like to become more involved in the committees around the city (Glen Cove). I meet many people that do things out of their good nature. It’s something I highly respect and admire and I’d like to try to do more of.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff -againstMICHAEL CHARLESTON, AS ADMINISTRATOR, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DESILIA CHARLESTON; STEPHANIE MONTOUR, AS ADMINISTRATRIX, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DESILIA CHARLESTON; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DESILIA CHARLESTON; NASSAU COUNTY CLERK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE
SERVICE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKVILLAGE OF MINEOLA; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; “JOHN DOE” and “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Index No. 608120/2024. Mortgaged Premises: 196 Valcour Avenue Uniondale, NY 11553 Section: 50 Block: 18 Lots: 262-263. To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $$319,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on May 20, 2004 in Liber Book M 26796, Page 89, Control Number 1339, covering the premises known as 196 Valcour Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553.. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the
mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP
1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 150905
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Nassau, U.S. Bank Trust National Association, as Trustee of the FW Series I Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Martha Fernandez, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 7, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 11, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 391 Second Place a/k/a 391 2nd Place, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Uniondale, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 110 and Lot 2. Approximate amount of judgment is $678,249.36 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611392/2022. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 210770-1 150903
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU --------------------------------x Index No.: 615470/2023
NOTICE OF SALE
Hon. Rhonda E. Fischer
A.J.S.C. Assigned Justice SNG Capital Investors, LLC, Plaintiff, -againstX13Y11P LLC, Rudy Zamor, Marie M. Ligonde, NYS Department of Taxation and Finance, People of the State of New York and “John Doe #1”through “Jane Doe #12” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises described in the complaint, Defendants.
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale entered in the Nassau County Clerk’s office on November 26, 2024, I the undersigned referee named in the judgment, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps at the Nassau County Supreme Courthouse at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York 11501, “Rain or Shine” on Tuesday, February 13, 2025 at 2:00 P.M., the premises directed by the judgment to be sold and described in the judgment as follows:
Known as:466 Emerson Street, Uniondale, New York
Section 50., Block 122 Lot 693 Premises sold subject to the terms and conditions in the Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and the Terms of Sale on file in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office, all unpaid taxes, city and state real property transfer tax, assessments and water rates which are at the time of sale a lien on the premises, together with such interest or penalties as may have lawfully accrued thereon to the date of payment. That 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.
Dated:Yonkers, New York December 10, 2024
s/Michael H. Sahn, Esq. Referee
Plaintiff’s Attorney: Veneruso, Curto, Schwartz & Curto, LLP
s/Joseph R. Curto
By: Joseph R. Curto, Esq. 35 East Grassy Sprain Road, Ste. 400 Yonkers, New York 10710
914-779-1100 150503
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE
Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 18th, 2025, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 13th, 2025 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucount yny.gov/526/CountyTreasurer
Should the Treasurer determine that an inperson auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February 2025 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer. A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucount yny.gov/527/Annual-TaxLien-Sale
A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 06th, 2025. Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audiotape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.
Dated: January 23, 2025
THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, NewYork
TERMS OF SALE
Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts.
However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’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 151098
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 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST David A. Nobrega; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 8, 2015, and Amended November 3, 2022, 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 27, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 1298 Birch Street, Uniondale, NY 11553-2008. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 50 Block 572 Lot 0015. Approximate amount of judgment $248,768.87 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 004891/2014. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public
Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: January 10, 2025 151134
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-BC4, -againstHAZEL E. SHAMBERGER, 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 9, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-BC4 is the Plaintiff and HAZEL E. SHAMBERGER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 25, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 504 DECATUR STREET, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identification: 50-122-104, 242, 243, 680 & 681. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING 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.: 605953/2018. Nicholas Ferrar, 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. 151143
LEGAL NOTICE
SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST VIII-A, Plaintiff -againstFRANZ CASIMIR AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MAGNOLIA STEPHENSCASIMIR; KATHIA CASIMIR AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MAGNOLIA STEPHENS-CASIMIR; PAUL CARLSON AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MAGNOLIA STEPHENSCASIMIR; UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF MAGNOLIA STEPHENSCASIMIR; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Index No. 615759/2023. Mortgaged Premises: 679 Midwood Street, Uniondale, NY 11553 Section: 50 Block: D02 Lot: 2 To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $150,733.07 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on July 25, 2016 in Book M 41383, Page 712, Instrument Number 2016-71557, covering the premises known as 679 Midwood Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon
the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 151124
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 #: 614513/2023 U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST Plaintiff, vs JEFFREY B. ALTIDOR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF GUITEAU J. ALTIDOR, PEGGENS ALTIDOR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF GUITEAU J. ALTIDOR, CHELSEA C. ALTIDOR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF GUITEAU J. ALTIDOR, PIERRETTE M ALTIDOR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF GUITEAU J. ALTIDOR, COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF NASSAU COUNTY, BANK OF AMERICA, NA, NAVIENT CREDIT FINANCE CORPORATION, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF GUITEAU J. ALTIDOR 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, SLM PRIVATE CREDIT STUDENT LOAN TRUST 2006-B, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, MARY ALTIDOR 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: 434 Chester Street Uniondale, NY 11553 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 Guiteau J. Altidor 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 Thirteenth day of January, 2025 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 Guiteau J. Altidor (who died on April 4, 2020, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) dated the February 20, 2008, to secure the sum of $331,224.00 and recorded at Book 32872, Page 791 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on April 10, 2008. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Guiteau J. Altidor on April 16, 2013 and recorded February 24, 2014 in Book 39526, Page 441 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 19, 2017 and recorded on February 6, 2017, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2017-00013263. The mortgage was subsequently modified on May 30, 2018. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 8, 2020 and recorded on June 22, 2020, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2020-50228. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 8, 2020 and recorded on December 29, 2020, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2020-128377. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 14, 2021 and recorded on October 5, 2021, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2021-129916. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 17, 2022 and recorded on December 16, 2022, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2022-117439. The property in question is described as follows: 434 Chester Street, Uniondale, NY 11553 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
All aboard for safe boating classes
The days might be cold now, but it’s a good time to start planning for the warmer weather and another boating season by registering now for safe boating classes through the Town of Hempstead.
With Brianna’s Law now in effect, requiring all boat operators to obtain a boating safety certificate, these classes are essential for ensuring safe and responsible use of the waterways.
Upcoming Safe Boating claSS
The first course of 2025 is designed for ages 10 to 18 and will take place over two sessions at the Department of Con-
COMPANY) AND FILING
THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: January 13, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 84201 151073
servation and Waterways, 1401 Lido Blvd., Point Lookout.
•Saturday, feb. 1: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
•Saturday, feb. 8: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participants must attend both sessions to receive their boating safety certificate. The town’s bay constables will lead the classes.
Constables at (516) 897-4100.
Residents who have already been certified but need a replacement card can visit: Bit.ly/4jkJ1p6.
— Jeffrey Bessen
Public Notices Public Notices
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 221656-1 151118
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 7-2025
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Nassau, U.S. Bank Trust National Association as Trustee of Tiki Series IV Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Bernice Osuji, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 11, 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 February 26, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 712 Campus Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 265 and Lot 67. Approximate amount of judgment is $525,746.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610628/2022.
Fabiana Ida Talarico, Esq., Referee
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held January 21st, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 7-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 7-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: January 21, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 151258 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, -againstVALERIE MARTIN, 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 6, 2024, wherein U.S BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST is the Plaintiff and VALERIE MARTIN, 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 March 4, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1008 DITMAS AVENUE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identification: 50-453-52. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT UNIONDALE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 010550/2014. Peter Famighetti, 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. 151283
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. WALTER BROOME AND VALERIE BROOME, IF THEY BE LIVING, IF THEY BE DEAD, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRSAT-LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING UNDER, BY, OR THROUGH WALTER BROOME AND VALERIE BROOME, IF THEY BE DEAD, WHETHER BY PURCHASE INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, ALL OF WHO AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF, et al Deft. Index #611563/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered January 15, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at a.m. prem. k/a a/k/a Section 50, Block 33901, Lot 110. Approximate amount of judgment is $ plus cost and interest. The foreclosure sale will take place “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court appointed Referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. PAMELA SHARPE, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. For Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #102079 151279
Employment HERALD
Exciting
Monday- Friday
4 hours per day, $25/ hour.
Bachelor degree and business work experience preferred. Digital marketing experience, a big plus.
Blomdahl USA Call
516-868-7149 9am-3pm M-F
Resume: dave@blomdahlusa.com
Interested Applicants should contact: lsveda@sewanhakaschools.org for an application.
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
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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
MULTI MEDIA
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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 for
HomesHERALD
How hard is converting from oil to gas?
Q. We want a new boiler and to convert to gas, because oil costs keep rising. How safe are a gas boiler, water heater and stove? We are told it could be very expensive to run a gas line to our home if there isn’t one on the street. We have spoken to a plumber who is looking into this for us, but is this really going to be economical, since we’re retired and just trying to find ways to reduce living costs?
A. Gas is generally safe when the lines are left alone where installed, and not tampered with. We only read or hear news about a gas explosion when something out of the ordinary happens. Years ago, a gas explosion on Long Island turned out to have been caused by thieves who ripped the gas stove out of an empty home, leaving the open gas line spewing gas to the whole house until a spark from the boiler ignited the gas and blew the home up. This is rare, and was caused by ignorance.
MASSAPEQUA:
You can avoid this by being cautious, and hiring professionals to handle gas appliances. With several steps to convert from oil to gas, you, or your plumber, must verify that gas lines are available on your street. I remember converting to gas, contacting the gas company and, after a week, calling them back and learning that there was no gas, and that the closest location was a block away, on the other side of a busy county road. I was also told that I would have to go door to door to speak to neighbors about converting to gas so that it would be worth it for the gas company to extend the street line into our neighborhood. In other words, the gas company wanted me to market their product if I wanted it for myself.
I did manage to find others around me who were interested in converting. Then we all waited, and wouldn’t you know it, the neighbors started calling me to find out when the gas lines were going to be installed. That prompted me to do what you may also have to do: keep calling. There were issues with getting approvals for the road opening of a county road, which takes months, permits for the gas conversion by the plumber, location of other utilities, oil and tank removal after gas was in.
Plan for summer installation, when the boiler is least needed. As for the expense, it doesn’t pay to buy a less expensive boiler if it’s less efficient, because its operating cost — usually based on how much heat is derived per unit of fuel consumed — will be much more than the money saved at the outset. Incidentally, oil fuel is slightly more efficient than gas, but the cost increases are based on a less stable spot market. Although gas tends to remain more price-stable, for some unknown reason, it tends to increase in cost concurrent with oil increases. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions Conspiracy has no place after tragedy
Like so many others, I have watched the California wildfires unfold with a mix of horror and awe.
For those unfamiliar with the scale of destruction, the fires that began igniting near Los Angeles in early January have scorched over 40,000 acres, claimed at least 27 lives, injured more than 20 people and destroyed over 15,000 structures.
As I followed news reports, watched television coverage and scrolled through social media during the first week of the fires, one message stood out: Nearly everyone had California and its residents in their thoughts and prayers. Relief efforts and fundraisers quickly sprang into action as people rallied to help and offer support wherever it was needed. It is in our nature as humans to want to help. Yet to my dismay, almost as soon as the relief efforts began, conspiracies started surfacing. And not to be punny, but they spread like, well, wildfire.
On my social media feeds, I occasionally come across videos from a popular
iaccount called “Gubba Homestead.” The account owner, a farmer, often starts her videos with the tagline, “I’m a conspiracy theorist . . .” From there she dives into various claims, many of which can be debunked by science. The videos are clickbait-like in their nature, designed to provoke reactions or outrage in the comments — an approach that boosts views and amplifies the videos’ spread.
TIt’s a fascinating, albeit troubling, method of online content creation, and I wasn’t surprised when, about a week after the fires began, she appeared on my feed once again, starting with the familiar line, “Call me a conspiracy theorist, but . . .”
atures in 2024 were dubbed “abnormally hot” by scientists at the University of California — which should surprise no one. And it’s not just the West Coast that has been affected by fires. Think about what occurred just a few months ago in upstate New York.
heories started surfacing almost as soon as the relief efforts began in L.A.
She went on to claim that there was no way the L.A. wildfires could have been caused by climate change, offering harmful commentary that did nothing to help anyone during a time of tragedy. Without diving too deep, I’ll tell you this: Climate scientists have indicated that the likelihood of fire events has increased by 31 to 66 percent since 1950, due to intense periods of strong rainfall, which create more vegetation, followed by periods of extreme drought, which dries out that vegetation. Global temper-
Climate change is real, and it’s here. People can ignore the truth, but there’s no place in this conversation for conspiracies.
At the core of American values lies the principle of free speech. Thoughtful questioning and theorizing have driven breakthroughs once deemed impossible. Scientific discoveries have emerged, and transformative social change has been achieved, thanks to people who challenged the status quo — doing so with ethical integrity and moral purpose.
What’s unfolding across social media, as Californians work to rebuild their lives, is neither ethical nor moral. Those whose lives have been upended don’t need “influencers” spreading baseless claims or (again, sorry) fanning the flames of conspiracy.
This behavior exploits tragedy for attention, shifting the focus away from the victims and the real issues at hand. It undermines efforts to address the underlying causes, like climate change
and inadequate infrastructure, and distracts from the stories of resilience and heroism that deserve to be heard.
The conspiracy phenomenon isn’t unique to the California fires. From hurricanes to pandemics to mass shootings, misinformation and conspiracy theories seem to surface in the wake of nearly every major tragedy. Under the guise of seeking the “truth,” sensationalized theories simply capitalize on fear, confusion and distrust, and accomplish nothing.
To complicate things, Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, announced a few weeks ago that it was scrapping its fact-checking program, which flagged possible misinformation — a move that will just keep conspiracies burning, spreading and infiltrating the minds of many.
I’m not suggesting that we stop questioning or trying to make sense of the world around us, but as always, we must remain mindful. Consider the weight of your words and actions, and the harm that conspiracies can inflict. There’s a time and place for questions, based on the truth. That’s how we rebuild and move forward. But in the aftermath of tragedy, we can’t afford to make room for ignorance.
Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? Jvallone@liherald.com.
When was the last time you read a book?
am a minority in so many ways that I never realized I’m part of a shrinking population of people who read books for fun. We read because we want to. We read because, for some of us, there’s no better way to spend our time. We read because there’s no other human experience that can transport us to another time and place, completely immersing us in the joys and tribulations of people who are the invention of a writer’s mind. I’ve known for some time that young people aren’t choosing to read books when the competition is TV or social media. I don’t need studies to tell me that, head to head, when it’s reading vs. streaming, reading loses with most teens most of the time.
The Atlantic recently ran a piece by Rose Horowitch revealing that at some of the country’s “elite” colleges, many students are neither willing nor able to read the books they’re assigned for classes. They say they just can’t do it — can’t concentrate for so long, can’t stay
with a narrative. Classes that once required some 10 books for the year now assign “excerpts.”
The students aren’t failing to perform. We have failed in preparing them to read properly.
When Horowitch investigated further, she discovered that the problem begins in high school. In recent years, with the ascendance of social media and smartphones, there has been a parallel decline in reading. More disturbing, many teachers are accommodating the change by dumbing down the curriculum, assigning summaries or chapters instead of whole books.
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; “A Portrait of Dorian Grey,” by Oscar Wilde; “Something I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You,” by Alice Munro; “The Matrix,” by Lauren Groff; “Slow Horses,” by Mick Herron; “The Wren, the Wren,” by Anne Enright; “A Day in the Life of Abed Salama,” by Nathan Thrall; “Of Mice and Men,” by John Steinbeck.
We worry about the rise of book banning in today’s America. Remember the horrific dystopia of “1984”? The irony is that book banning and book burning aren’t necessary in a culture that doesn’t read books.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
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HERALD
Act would help main streets, local newsrooms
Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. They are the corner stores, familyowned restaurants, and local service providers that fuel our neighborhoods, create jobs, and drive economic growth. Yet these vital businesses often face significant challenges in reaching new customers and growing their operations in an increasingly competitive economy.
With the official introduction in the New York State Legislature of the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act, small businesses across the state might gain a powerful new tool next year to help sustain their success and maximize the reach of their marketing dollars. Sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblywoman Jen Lunsford, the legislation would establish a tax credit for small businesses that advertise in local media outlets — from print and digital to television and radio. By making advertising more affordable, the LOCAL Act would empower small businesses to reach their target audiences while also supporting the essential work of the same media outlets that provide our communities with local journalism.
The LOCAL Act focuses on supporting minority-, woman- and veteranowned businesses, as well as any businesses with 10 or fewer employees. For
letterS
Blakeman takes the credit, but how safe is the county?
To the Editor:
County Executive Bruce Blakeman boasts in his Jan. 16-22 Herald op-ed, “Safety and affordability must be Nassau’s priorities,” that he has made Nassau County the safest county in the nation. But Blakeman neglects to acknowledge that the same top ranking in a U.S. News & World Report annual survey was also attained in two consecutive years during the tenure of his predecessor, Democrat Laura Curran.
The Republican county executive attributes the comparatively high degree of security to “our investments in public safety.” Blakeman notes that he has sworn in 291 new police officers since taking office in 2022.
While the additional cops may be helping keep violent-crime rates at the low level achieved under Curran, an expanded Nassau County Police Department has done little to make the county’s roads safer. Blakeman says nothing, and has done nothing,
many of these entrepreneurs, the ability to advertise affordably in trusted, community-driven platforms like local newspapers would be a game-changer. Local media outlets are well positioned to connect businesses with their neighbors — customers who are eager to shop locally and uplift their communities.
This legislation couldn’t come at a better time. Small businesses are still navigating the economic aftershocks of the pandemic, inflationary pressures, and competition from large corporations with massive marketing budgets. The LOCAL Act would help level the playing field, giving your favorite momand-pop store a way to increase visibility without sacrificing their scarce financial resources.
When our small businesses thrive, so do our communities. Small businesses employ your neighbors, sponsor your kids’ Little League team, and offer a convenient destination for a night out with your spouse. These businesses are not only economic drivers, but also cornerstones of community identity.
The benefits of the LOCAL Act would extend beyond businesses. Local media outlets, too, are vital to communities, because they produce the journalism that keeps people informed about school board meetings, neighborhood crime, church bake sales and the
most recent newlyweds — and everything in between. Unfortunately, declining advertising revenues have jeopardized the financial sustainability of many of these media outlets, and small newsrooms have been shuttering across the state. By encouraging small businesses to advertise locally, the LOCAL Act would helps these outlets continue their essential work of championing their communities.
This dual benefit — supporting both small businesses and local journalism — has already garnered strong support from business groups, community leaders, and the 200-plus local newspapers comprising the Empire State Local News Coalition — including the Heralds. It’s a win-win solution that strengthens the backbone of our local economy while fostering a unified, informed citizenry.
The LOCAL Act marks a bold step forward in tackling the interconnected challenges our communities are facing today. By working together to implement and embrace this program, we can build stronger businesses, sustain vital journalism, and ensure the prosperity of communities across New York for years to come.
We support this smart legislation. Tell your elected leaders in Albany to include the LOCAL Act in the final fiscal year 2026 state budget.
opinions
A new path forward for Long Island transportation
Long island is a place of endless potential, where communities with rich histories thrive in scenic landscapes. Our ability to sustain this prosperity is at risk, however, due to a glaring issue: outdated and insufficient transportation infrastructure. The status quo is no longer an option. long island’s transportation challenges stem from years of systemic neglect and a funding model that doesn’t prioritize our region’s needs. Currently, long island’s funding mechanism is lumped together with New york City and other counties under the New york Metropolitan Transportation Council. This arrangement puts long island at a disadvantage, forcing us to compete for resources with the complex
and nearly endless needs of the five boroughs and beyond.
The numbers paint a stark picture. long island’s share of transportation funding has dwindled to just 6 percent, despite a population that would make us the third-largest city in the nation. We are being asked to do more with less, and the cracks are starting to show — literally, in our roads and railways. To address this crisis, we must rethink how transportation funding and planning are handled.
that we know how to prioritize best.
With the leadership of such an organization, we would be able to build a long island where commuting is seamless, roads are safer and public transit options are robust. Projects such as modernizing the long island Rail Road, improving safety on major highways, and developing environmentally friendly transit systems would finally get the attention they deserve.
a region that is key to New York’s economy is treated as an afterthought.
The creation of a Nassau Suffolk Metropolitan Planning Organization is the logical next step. By establishing a dedicated MPO for long island, we can ensure that our transportation priorities are no longer overshadowed by those of neighboring regions. The new organization would allow us to access federal funding directly, giving us the autonomy to address local issues
Letters
about the traffic violence that resulted in nearly 150 deaths in the county during his first two years in office. Killings by armed assailants claimed fewer than 10 lives in the same period.
The NCPD, and Blakeman, appear uninterested in acting to reduce this carnage. County police issued about 20 percent fewer tickets to drivers in 2022 than in 2019, according to the most recent data available from state sources. Stricter enforcement would likely bring about a drop in fatal crashes related to speeding and driving under the influence — the two leading causes of road deaths.
Blakeman seeks to project a toughguy image when it comes to crime. That accounts for his unilateral move to create a force of 75 armed “special deputies” to be activated whenever he chooses. This new unit, criticized as a private militia, will be mobilized in cases of “emergency,” the county executive maintains. But the carnage on the county’s roads does not, in his estimation, qualify as a topic worth addressing — let alone as an “emergency.”
KeviN J Kelley Atlantic Beach
It’s time for New York to embrace nuclear power
To the editor:
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s recent state
budget proposal fails to adequately address New york’s energy infrastructure. The proposal does not mention nuclear power, even though it is the state’s best energy opportunity. equally troubling is the omission of the empire State Wind project, a once-central component of New york’s energy goal of generating net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. if the governor recognizes that wind energy faces significant public opposition, especially on long island, then it’s time to focus on funding nuclear energy projects instead.
Nuclear power is the most efficient form of renewable energy, generating massive amounts of electricity with a much smaller land footprint than wind or solar. This is best demonstrated by the Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant, which never went online. The plant’s site now houses wind turbines that produce 1/35,000th of the energy the nuclear plant would have generated. While there were justifiable concerns about building a reactor downstate, Hochul should now look to fund nuclear reactors upstate that would create electricity for downstate communities. The closure of the i ndian Point energy Center in 2021 underscores the urgency of building a better energy grid for New york. This move forced downstate New york to increase its reliance on fossil fuels, driving up emissions and worsening air pollution. Communities already struggling with environmental and health inequities continue to bear the brunt of these
Smaller New york regions, like ithaca, already benefit from their own MPOs despite having far smaller populations and economies than long island. Why should our region, home to more than 3 million people and a cornerstone of New york’s economy, continue to be treated as an afterthought?
This is not just about transportation — it’s about long island’s future. Without the infrastructure to support our
growing population and economy, we risk losing what makes this region special.
Thanks to the leadership of State Sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern, legislation to establish a Nassau Suffolk MPO has been introduced, and as the chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian legislative Caucus, i’m proud that we’ve included this important legislation in our 2025 People’s Budget Framework. Now it’s up to us to make this vision a reality. Passing this legislation would mark a turning point, signaling that long island’s needs would no longer be ignored.
let’s seize this opportunity to secure long island’s place as a leader in transportation innovation. By creating a Nassau Suffolk MPO, we can build a future in which our communities are connected, our economy is strengthened and our residents enjoy a better quality of life.
Michaelle Solages represents the 22nd Assembly District.
Framework by Tim Baker
decisions.
Nuclear power is resurging across the country. Tech companies such as Microsoft and Meta are restarting nuclear reactors because they recognize that they are the most effective way to fuel their operations sustainably. it’s time for New york to follow suit. Governor Hochul should take bold action to fund
nuclear energy projects, ensuring that downstate residents have access to renewable power.
Miss Long Island 2025, Kristen Rosario, left, and Miss Long Island Teen, Adriana Lane, were crowned at Molloy University’s Madison Theatre — Rockville Centre
MiCHAel SiNGeR Long Beach
Michael Singer is a student at New York University’s Stern School of Business.
mountsinai.org/southnassau