Uniondale Herald 12-26-2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

Uniondale High School's new field is unveiled. Page 11

Heartfelt dedication ceremony for late detective. Page 18

HERALD UNIONDALE

BEACON BEACON

Pearl Jacob S

'She knows how to get things done'

Pearl Jacobs has led efforts to improve life in Uniondale for over two decades

By Kelsie Radziski

Pearl Jacobs has spent over 20 years working to improve the quality of life for the people of Uniondale. In recognition of her tireless service and her dedication to her community, the Herald is proud to name Jacobs its 2024 Person of the Year.

Jacobs is known for her unrelenting advocacy and her leadership in addressing longstanding issues in Uniondale. She moved here 30 years ago, and her community service journey began just over a decade later, when she met the late Melvin Harris Jr., the former president of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association. Harris was a “strong community advocate,” Jacobs recalled, and encouraged her to get involved.

Though she was initially hesitant because of her demanding career as an operations manager for Verizon, Jacobs was moved by Harris’s message of community empowerment and equality.

“I started going to meetings,” she recounted, “and his message really resonated regarding the disparities within the Town of Hempstead and Nassau County, and how we have to fight for everything that we get.”

Jacobs eventually joined the board of the civic association, and became its president in 2014. Now in her 60s and retired from Verizon, she has remained the head of the organization and been an outspoken advocate for Uniondale, striving to address the challenges the community continues to face.

Everyone should get a fair shake. That's what really led me into being a strong community advocate.

PEARl JACoBS President, Nostrand Gardens Civic Association

A primary concern for Jacobs has always been equality, and ensuring that working-class communities like Uniondale, which she says are often overlooked, receive the same services and attention as their more affluent neighbors. She named sanitation and cleanliness as big needs for the hamlet in order to improve the overall quality of life.

“The major challenges are just services,” she said. “We do get our garbage picked up, but other than that, there’s no oversight when it comes to sanitation issues. A lot of the time our roads are unsightly with the sanitation.”

One of the biggest local initiatives that Jacobs started, along with Nostrand Gardens Civic Association Vice President Heidi Sanft, was aimed at beautifying the neighborhood. They created a Beautification Committee around 10 years ago. According to Jacobs, Uniondale Avenue was “dark, barren, with no

lights,” which motivated her to approach then Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams about making changes.

Sanft said they prioritized adding planters and lamps to make the streets look more attractive, and she and Jacobs “lobbied for many years” for them, she said.

“Pearl is an action person,” Sanft said. “She sees something that needs attention and she takes action and also she doesn’t give up.”

Now, every spring, the association organizes a community cleanup, planting flowers in the planters throughout the neighborhoods along Uniondale Avenue, Front Street and Jerusalem Avenue.

Though it was initially funded only by Jacobs and members of the committee, the initiative has since gained support from local businesses and residents.

“Everyone has come together with that beautification initiative, and they feel a part of it, which is great,” Jacobs said. Sanft, who has worked alongside Jacobs for over 10 years, describes her as an “incredible person.” “She knows how to get things done, and she truly cares about the community, about

Lyle Mark Bulado/Herald Pearl Jacobs, president of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association, has been focused on the quality of services for Uniondale residents for two decades.

Jacobs champions beautification and repairs

other people,” Sanft said. “I feel very fortunate to know her, and to be working with her on different projects.”

Another major endeavor led by Jacobs and the association was the Segregated Roadways campaign in 2021. She noticed that roads across the county were being repaired and repaved, while the section of Jerusalem Avenue that runs through Uniondale — as Jacobs had been pointing out to the Legislature for a long time — was “horrific,” and in dire need of repairs. She pushed for an official survey, which showed that the roadway was indeed in poor condition, and she started a campaign urging the Legislature to approve of the project.

“I made a T-shirt that said ‘Segregated Roadways, Nassau County,’” she recalled of one of the sessions of the Legislature that she attended, “and maybe three or four months later, they started working on Jerusalem Avenue.”

In addition to her work with her civic association, Jacobs has also been involved in other Uniondale advocacy efforts, including the movement to eliminate the term “East Garden City” and classify that land as Uniondale, as it was before the 2000 census. She has been to many protests and rallies, she said, and the civic association has worked closely with the Greater Uniondale Area Action Coalition on the renaming issue.

In June 2015, the U.S. Census Bureau agreed to re-designate East Garden City as part of Uniondale, which was a big win. Jeannine Maynard, GUAAC’s co-coordinator, said Jacobs was “the front face” of Nostrand Gardens at the time and was very active in the campaign. The two organizations have worked

closely on other local issues, including beautification and water quality.

“She's really got the heart of the community in

mind, and is very, very clear about standing up for the rights of the neighborhood,” Maynard said.

Jacobs is a vocal opponent of Las Vegas Sands’ proposed casino project on the Nassau Coliseum site, and has raised her concerns at a number of County Legislature meetings over the potential environmental and health impacts of the development. Her opposition is grounded in her longstanding focus on the community’s quality of life, including air quality and asthma rates, and, she said, “We don’t need any other environmental catastrophes in our community.”

She has also been a leading voice in efforts to address water contamination in Uniondale, where residents have sometimes seen brown water coming from their taps. She is spearheading the campaign for a new water tower, because the existing one, on Jerusalem Avenue, has not been renovated in over 30 years.

Jacobs’s advocacy has led her to become something of a point person in Uniondale. She has built relationships with county public officials, including commissioners and code enforcement officers, and residents turn to her with their concerns because, as one neighbor told her, “Pearl, you always get things done.”

“They don’t call the county, they don’t call the town, they call us,” she said. “I get things done by process of escalation.”

Her commitment to her community is rooted in a sense of fairness. She describes herself as a “strong proponent against inequality” and believes that Uniondale, like all communities, deserves the services and infrastructure it needs to thrive.

“Everyone should get a fair shake,” Jacobs emphasized. “That’s what really led me into being a strong community advocate.”

Courtesy Pearl Jacobs

Pearl Jacobs, front, in yellow shirt, joined other community members at one of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association’s planting days, which it hosts every spring to promote the beautification of Uniondale.

Nassau Ballaz took over Hofstra. Team captain Imari Hamilton led all scorers with 10 points in the Nassau Ballaz game at Hofstra University, where the seventh grade team faced off against the sixth grade team.

Firefighting, ambulance rescues, Santa Claus, and candy canes. Former Uniondale fire chief Jessica Ellerbe, center, led the second annual Community Santa Ride, a triumphant parade of fire trucks that circulated throughout the community with firefighters handing out candy canes at nine different locations.

Casino debate spilled into town enviro meeting. Annette Cella shared at a Nassau County Legislature meeting that she has been a Uniondale resident for more than 60 years. She said she lives across the street from the Nassau Hub — where Las Vegas Sands wants to build a $4 billion commercial complex and casino — and understands the need for jobs. Still, she voiced that the harm such a project could bring outweighs the potential for new jobs.

Starbucks worker fired. Anthony Price, a Uniondale resident, said he was fired from his job at a Westbury Starbucks after a confrontation with his manager. He claimed he was actually targeted because of his outspoken leadership in the store’s union, and he led a number of strikes in the months leading up to his firing.

Serving up a great meal, Chef Rob’s way. Chef Rob Scott hosted a cooking class at the Uniondale Public Library, teaching teens how to make his

Pupusas, tradition, pride, giving. Rosita Orellana, left, Addie Blanco-Harvey, Juana Hernandez, Monica Linares, Iris Granados and Estrella OlivaresOrellana all put their hands and hearts to work making pupusas at a meeting of the Latina Mentoring Initiative in Uniondale.

famous chicken fajita penne pasta skillet.

Brandon Cruz/Herald

Courtesy Nassau Ballaz

EDITOR/REPORTER

Making ornaments at Byrne community center

The John J. Byrne Community Center in Uniondale hosted Ornament Magic, a joyful and creative event that brought families together to celebrate the holiday season. The Dec. 15 event was meant to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for both children and adults, according to a statement from the community center.

Participants were invited to decorate their own holiday ornaments, using a variety of crafting materials. The supplies included clear plastic ornaments, colorful fuzzy wires, stickers and other fun options for decorating their ornaments.

Each material was chosen intentionally to be accessible, fun and easy for everyone to use, according to the statement. Everyone was encouraged to get creative while making their unique designs. Sweet treats were also offered, including brownies, cupcakes, cookies and juice, which were enjoyed by everyone.

The event turned out to be a “wonderful success,” according to the center. Participants shared with the community center how much they enjoyed making their ornaments, and many complimented the event as a fun and festive activity. Some children eagerly asked if they would host the same event again next year, which was “one of the most heartwarming moments” of the afternoon, according to the center.

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

“The highlight of Ornament Magic was seeing families come together to share in the joy of creativity and the holiday spirit,” the community center said in the statement. “Smiling faces, beautifully decorated ornaments, and the festive setting around the Christmas tree truly made the event special. We are incredibly proud of the outcome and overjoyed to have brought members of the community together.”

–Kelsie Radziski

Courtesy John J. Byrne Community Center

The John J. Byrne Community Center welcomed in Uniondale residents for an afternoon of ornament-making on Dec. 15.

1276605

Nassau County is keeping residents safe

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Following reports that a large number of mysterious drones have been seen flying over parts of New Jersey and the East Coast, Nassau County officials showcased the county’s drone detection technology, that allows law enforcement to track drones anywhere within the county

County Executive Bruce Blakeman, at a news conference held at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence in Garden City on Dec. 19, told reporters that the county’s drone detection capabilities are “ahead of the curve.”

“I have been to other police departments throughout the United States to take a look at their intelligence and drone detection,” Blakeman said. “I can tell you that Nassau County is state-ofthe art. We’re on the cutting edge of drone detection.”

Reports of drones

According to a report by NBC, more than 5,000 drone sightings have been reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, mostly in New Jersey, although drones have been seen in New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Ohio.

The Federal Aviation Administration banned drone flights in 22 areas of New

Jersey, according to a report by AP News. Patrick Ryder, commissioner of the Nassau County Police Department, said since Nov. 1, Nassau County has identified over 1,800 drone flights and 798 pilots.

What can Nassau County do?

Nassau County has the ability to track and identify drones that are in the county’s airspace, but is not allowed to mitigate their flying — only the federal government has that authority, Blakeman said.

“There’s detection and there’s mitigation,” he explained. “The mitigation is two types: One is the technology to jam it and have it return to its base, and the other one is to destroy it.”

Blakeman said they’d like the federal government to allow the police department to do a few things.

“We’d like the technology so we don’t have to shoot it down, because that creates a whole other set of problems,” Blakeman said. “But the technology is there to jam it and send it back to its home base, and we want that. We also want federal legislation that would allow us to issue a federal summons in the event that someone was violating the law.”

Blakeman said the county understands that drone flying is a hobby, and there are proper places where one can fly a drone.

“We have no problem with that,” he added. “But when it gets out of hand, like we’ve seen in New Jersey, or if it’s potential form of some kind of organized crime gang or a foreign nation, we have a responsibility to be on top of that.”

Are there credible threats?

The least worrisome threat, Blakeman said, is an invasion of privacy.

“Drones have been known to go into people’s backyards,” he said, “and hover over windows in their homes.”

Drones can pose threats to aircraft by interfering with planes, or they could crash into structures, causing property damage. Large drones, Blakeman said, have the ability to carry material, either biological, chemical or explosive, which is a major concern.

The data collected by the county, Ryder said, indicates that people flying drones are likely testing the system.

“It indicates that we’ve got 798 knuckleheads that keep putting their drones up at night, just to test the system,” he said. “We’ve seen this triple in size and reporting. What’s going to happen in Nassau County — we’re going to ask you to take the drone down.”

Nassau County’s technology

In order to fly a drone in restricted airspace, Ryder said one needs to be a licensed drone pilot. Nassau County has 27 pilots, he said, that have learned how

Different types of drones were on

outside of the David S.

for Training and Intelligence.

to fly drones. The county also has 30 snipers that can subdue threats — like a drone — from long distances, he said. The county does not have the ability to take down a drone itself, but can make an arrest if someone is refusing to stop flying their drone.

“Right now, we need help from the federal government, especially because we’re a large department,” Blakeman said. “I can understand if they don’t want to make it available to every department in the United States, but with a department the size of Nassau County, we should have that mitigation technology.”

Sam's Caribbean Marketplace

Jordan Vallone/Herald

display

Mack Center

Fighting for equity on public transit. Mimi Pierre-Johnson, Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. and Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages gathered at the Rosa Parks Hempstead Transit Center and spoke about sharing constituents’ concerns about public transit equity on Long Island.

Uniondale welcomed best basketball players in the country. Cooper Flagg, who was the number one high school player in the country, visited Uniondale for a tournament at Hofstra University and put on a show for the community.

Stamp of approval. Hempstead town deputy supervisor Dorothy Goosby closed out Black History Month with a visit to the Empire State After School Celebration at the Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum in Hempstead. The event included the unveiling of the 47th stamp in the Black Heritage Series, a recognition of lawyer, jurist and civil rights activist Constance Baker Motley.

Rosario among competitors for Miss Long Island crown.

Queenasia Rosario of Uniondale was a runner-up in the 2024 Miss Long Island competition, held in February at Molloy University’s Madison Theatre.

Uniondale's Danie Henry appeared on ‘Kelly Clarkson Show’. Uniondale High School student and future reporter Danie Henry, a junior at the time, met White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show.’

Celebrating Black inventors and unsung heroes. Students learned and celebrated the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work by creating MLK-themed arts and crafts, including designing headbands, drawing their dreams, decorating ‘M’s, and more.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Skye Margies/Herald

Courtesy The Kelly Clarkson Show

Tim Baker/Herald

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Tim Baker/Herald

Forum explored race and economics. Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, with microphone, spoke on the state of the ‘Black economy’ on Feb. 29, along with economist Ludy ThenorShaw.

STEM and basketball collided at Nassau Coliseum. Uniondale elementary students attended Long Island Nets Education Day, where they cheered on the Nets and went to interactive STEM workshops.

Black History Month in Town of Hempstead. Jerome City Smith wore a James Brown wig and belted out ‘I Feel Good,’ accompanied by his City Sounds Music Orchestra, at the Town of Hempstead Black History Month celebration on Feb. 23.

Uniondale captivated by doggy dance show. The Uniondale Library hosted Diana Frohman and her three golden retrievers, George, Gabby and James, for a dance show where they stole the hearts of the community through barks and dance moves.

Public support for HEAT Act. Peggy Perkins, a Hempstead resident, spoke at a rally in support of the HEAT Act, legislation that experts said would save some residents over $160 per month. The act was passed in March.

Tim Baker/Herald

Courtesy Reine Bethany

Uniondale student artists. The Heckscher Museum of Art opened a highly anticipated exhibit featuring the work of the best artists across Long Island, which included three Uniondale High Schools students. From left: Stephanie Avelar, art teacher Brianna Jacobs-Cruz, Dusand Barrow and Kendra Saint Louis.

Brandon Cruz/Herald

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Uniondale winners took home trophy in debate league. Walnut Street Elementary School won the second place overall trophy for their number of wins in the American Debate League Long Island Classic tournament, held at Uniondale High School.

A local viewing of the partial eclipse. Families from all over Long Island came to Uniondale to safely observe the near-total eclipse.

Healthcare career training at NYIT. Students from Uniondale and Hempstead lined up with their new certifications from the New York Institute of Technology in Physical Therapy Aide.

Career Day at Uniondale High School. Uniondale then-ninth grader Adora Okoye experienced a simulation of helping victims in a car crash as an EMT during Uniondale High School’s Career Day.

Uniondale music teachers honored. Five exceptional music teachers from Long Island were honored at the Long Island Music Entertainment Hall of Fame, including two from Uniondale — Frank Abel and Susan Weber. From left: Educator of Note Recipients Alan Schwartz, Susan Weber, Frank Abel and Kim Lowenborg-Coyne.

Courtesy The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Courtesy New York Institute of Technology

Courtesy Amanda Borgia

Tim Baker/Herald

Brandon Cruz/Herald

Easter time at Uniondale community center. Volunteers from Long Island Community Soccer helped run and organize the Easter event by the Uniondale Community Council, and they were starstruck by the Easter Bunny.

Nominate a student under 16 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

We want to hear about the extraordinary young individuals who are driving change in their communities.

Submit a nomination of approximately 200 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability:

The award will be presented at the 2025 LI Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island powered by Reworld in February.

Your nomination could inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps!

What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

Community celebrates diverse Haitian heritage. Estrella Olivares-Orellana, director of multilingual learners, spoke at the Uniondale school district’s Haitian heritage celebration at Cornelius Court School, which was a joint effort involving the school district, the Uniondale Public Library and La Solidarite Haitiano-Americaine de Long Island.

Spotlight on special competitors. Alumni athletes of the Nassau County Games for the Physically Challenged gathered to watch this year’s games. From left:

Logan Lopez, Aahil Ahsan, K.E. Plunkett, Isaiah Roman, Yazdaan Ahsan and Brian Firners.

Herald file photo

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Courtesy Hofstra Student Voices for Palestine

Nationwide protests hit home. Students rallied outside Hofstra Hall to protest Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, calling it ‘genocide’ and demanding that the United States end its funding of Israel and that Hofstra cut all ties with the county.

White House honored Uniondale teachers. Keturah Lee, left, Monique Darrisaw-Akil and Roderick Peele from the Uniondale school district were selected to visit the White House as part of an initiative to support Black educators.

Maynard on civic issues. Jeannine Maynard, right, cofacilitator of the Greater Uniondale Area Action Coalition, has attended many rallies with other activists to amplify Uniondale’s voice. From left: Pearl Jacobs, Mary Ellen Kreye, James Jacobs and Jeannine Maynard.

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Courtesy Jeannine Maynard

police visited Northern Parkway. Nassau County mounted police

Northern Parkway Elementary School for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on May 28.

High school's new field of dreams. Uniondale High School cheerleaders sashayed towards the school’s new artificial-turf football field, followed by the marching band, to kick off the celebration of its official unveiling.

‘STEAMing’ toward science learning in Uniondale schools. Teacher Joan Jecewiz helped then-second grader Jace Royal and then-sixth grader Jayden Royal at the Making Claw Toys station at the Uniondale school district STEAM Fair.

Track star became state champ. Chikaodinaka ‘Chika’ Akazi won the 100-meter hurdles at the New York State Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

Having a ball with the Long Island Rough Riders. The Long Island Rough Riders men’s team lined up with kids at the soccer squad’s home opener.

Courtesy Tim Clure

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Nassau

visited

Brittany

Krilov/Herald

Jeffrey Bessen/Herald

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Courtesy Reine Bethany

Adopt-a-Cop fair thrilled fourth graders. Jean Dupoux, a Hempstead volunteer firefighter with Truck Company 1, introduced excited then-fourth graders to the technical side of the fire fighting at the Adopt-A-Cop event.

Strong finish for girls’ track. Olivia Talley (pictured) won the Division 2A title in the 100-meter dash and also ran the leadoff leg in the Knights’ winning 4-x-100 relay. Star senior China Akazi won both hurdle events in the May 13 meet.

Huge season for girls’ soccer. Undefeated Roosevelt took home the Conference AAA/AA5 girls’ soccer banner, but it was still a banner year for Uniondale. Led by a strong defense and senior leadership, the Knights finished 7-1-6 this fall.

Knights win playoff OT thriller. Junior Valle’s heroic left-footed blast from about 20 yards with 1:06 remaining in the first overtime gave seventhseeded Uniondale a 3-2 win over No. 2 Oceanside, 3-2, in a Nassau Class AAA quarterfinal Oct. 23.

Eric Dunetz/Herald

Tony Bellissimo/Herald

Terry Uellendahl/Herald

Derrick Dingle/Herald

Uniondale football debuts on turf. The long-anticipated first football game on the new turf facility at Uniondale took place Sept. 21 as the Knights hosted Massapequa before a large crowd. Jaheim Foote scored both touchdowns for Uniondale in the defeat.

News brief

Sands New York spreads holiday cheer

The holiday season is a little brighter for 125 children across Long Island, thanks to a donation from Sands New York to United Way of Long Island. The funds provided children from several local organizations, including EAC Network, Family & Children’s Association, Housing Help and United Way’s YouthBuild program, with the opportunity to shop for toys at Target in Westbury.

On Dec. 11, volunteers from Sands New York and United Way of Long Island accompanied the children, all under the age of 10, as they selected their gifts. The event aimed to bring some holiday magic to children facing hardships by providing them with a memorable shopping experience.

“We are so grateful to Sands New York for their incredible generosity,” Theresa Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island, said in the news release. “This partnership exemplifies the spirit of giving and community, promising these children a holiday to remember. Their smiles are the true testament to the power of compassion.”

Sands New York’s support of programs like YouthBuild and collaboration with organizations like EAC Network, Family & Children’s Association

and Housing Help demonstrates their commitment to improving lives across Long Island, according to the Sands news release.

“At Sands New York, we’re honored to partner with United Way of Long Island to bring smiles to children’s faces and share in the true spirit of giving,” Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Sands New York, said in the news release. “Our team of volunteers was deeply moved by the resilience of the children and families we met, and this experience reminds us of the power of coming together as a community to make Long Island a place where everyone feels supported and valued.”

The event not only brought joy to the children but also underscored the importance of the programs involved. These initiatives provide life-changing opportunities for Long Island youth, ensuring that all children, regardless of their circumstances, can experience the joy of the season.

For more information on United Way of Long Island and its programs, visit UnitedWayLI.org

–Kelsie Radziski

Animal fun for campers. Kids from Academic Explorers Day Camp were excited and confused to see Brandon Ellis, from the Center for Science Teaching & Learning, wearing Chex Mex the snake as a hat during his visit to teach them about animals.

Sands lease agreement advanced, despite public opposition. Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan joined the Say No to the Casino Civic Association in opposition to the proposed Sands development at a rally in front of the legislative building.

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Graduating with pride. Uniondale High School 20232024 valedictorian Jarred Mercado smiled at the school’s orchestra and jazz band as he expressed his gratitude for his time at school.

Courtesy Colin Ross

My Brother's Keeper inducted new Uniondale fellows. Aaron Osorio, left, and Jaden Eccelston were inducted into the My Brother’s Keeper Fellows for the 2024-2025 school year.

Empire State Fair lit up the Nassau Coliseum over the summer. Dorothy Feinberg, 5, smiled with her face paint and her parents, Rose and Josh, at this year’s Empire State Fair.

Keith Rossein/Herald

From Uniondale to jazz star. Brandee Younger, a Uniondale native, played the harp in a duet with bassist Rashaan Carter at the Tilles Jazz Fest.

Little Leaguers joined Long Island Ducks on the baseball field. Players from the Uniondale All Stars Little League and league President Ronnie Williams, far right, hung out on the Long Island Ducks’ baseball field before a game.

‘Eras of Aviation’ cam inspired future engineers with rockets. Campers waited in line to shoot off their rockets at the end of the Cradle of Aviation ‘Eras of Aviation’ summer camp week.

drone pilots. The Drone Aviators of Tomorrow program at the

its first cohort of graduates:

A divine Salvadoran festival. Members of Grupo Torogoz of Boston, a traditional Salvadoran dance troupe, performed at the Festival Divino Salvador Del Mundo (Divine Savior of the World Festival) at Hempstead Town Hall.

STEAM summer camp. Students from seventh to eleventh grade from Lawrence Road and Turtle Hook middle schools and Uniondale High School spent the last week of July at Summer STEAM Camp learning about sustainable technology and building model homes.

Free backpacks from MBK. Members of My Brother’s Keeper from Uniondale’s middle schools and high school handed out free backpacks filled with school supplies to students at locations across town ahead of the start of the school year.

Future

Cradle of Aviation saw

Alex Alameda, Andrew Alameda, Donovan Barrett, Erick Brown, Aayan Imran, Jonathan Morales, Challenger Salce, Aidian Sasenarine, Jayden Simpson, Katelyn Simpson, Bryan Valladares and Kevin Yang.

Courtesy Cradle

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Courtesy Scott Brinton

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Uniondale students spent their summer at Microsoft. Aaron and Aariana Osorio, then-incoming senior and thenincoming junior at Uniondale High School, took part in the Blacks at Microsoft program over the summer.

Back to school for Uniondale students. Students John Kennedy St. Preux, far left, Ace Xavier White and Zavier Smith lined up at Grand Avenue Elementary School for their first day of preschool in the 2024-2025 school year.

Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with soccer jamboree. Jerson Manzanares, then-2, joined the fun at the Uniondale school district soccer jamboree on Sept. 14, kicking off National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Uniondale students met their teachers. Elijah, 3, and Aliyah

at the Uniondale school district jamboree as they talked with Marina

Elementary School on Aug. 26.

Wilklow Avenue reunited. Former mayor and Hempstead High School teacher Don Ryan, left, Mayor Waylyn Hobbs, Jr., center, Dawn McCrimmon, right, and Esther Ford, seated, joined the Wilklow Avenue/Martin Luther King Drive reunion at Kennedy Memorial Park.

ate

from

Zambrano, 5,

free popcorn

Philippe

Walnut Street

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Courtesy Elizabeth Osorio

Kelsie

Tim Baker/Herald

Courtesy Jomo

Gamal Thomas

Young Uniondale author topped Amazon charts. Jomo Jesus Thomas Suriel, 8, with book, ‘The Angry Vacuum,’ which was a no. 1 seller on Amazon’s new releases in the Children’s Reference Education category.

Courtesy Shamel Harris/Pics in the Moment

Fire prevention and awareness. The Uniondale Fire Department opened its firehouse — Van Ness Fire Station — to the public for Fire Prevention Awareness Month. William Rodriguez brought his dog, Domino, to the event.

Pep rally for future colleges and careers.

Dylan Pickett, then-8, and Monroe-Day Fordham, then-10, gave speeches at the Cougar College and Career Pep Rally at California Avenue Elementary School to help prepare their peers for their futures.

‘Traveling’ through cultures at Walnut Street. Walnut Street Elementary School students spent Hispanic Heritage Month working on a school-wide interactive project called ‘Passport to Hispanic Heritage,’ which they presented to the Board of Education.

F.D. celebrated 100th anniversary. The Uniondale Fire Department celebrated its 100th anniversary with a parade and block party, and the Uniondale High School Marching Knights led the parade through the rain.

Colorful celebration at Latino American Night. Members of Grupo Folklórico Hondureñas Americo Latino of Uniondale celebrated Hispanic heritage at Latino American Night at Eisenhower Park.

Derrick Dingle/Herald

Alice Moreno/Herald

Courtesy Uniondale school district

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Alice Moreno/Herald

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Uniondale High unveiled new library. Shawn Brown, Uniondale High School principal, cut the ribbon to officially open the school’s new library, with the help of school staff, Board of Education members and students.

Girl Scouts explored STEM careers at Hofstra University. Lisa Napolione, Estee Lauder’s head of research and development on Long Island, helped Girl Scouts create their own face mists based on what they learned during a sustainability and green chemistry workshop at their annual STEM Conference.

Uniondale Library’s new social workers. Natasha Holder, one of the Uniondale Library’s two social work interns, sat her table near the adult reference section. The library’s social work program is open to all patrons.

Union Drive dedicated to late detective in heartfelt ceremony. Detective Erick Contreras’s family and former co-workers gathered on Union Drive on Nov. 16 for the street dedication ceremony for the late Nassau County detective.

Uniondale middle schools unveiled new additions. Turtle Hook Middle School unveiled their new additions and renovations to the building with a big ribbon cutting ceremony.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Girls Inc. of Long Island

Uniondale students honored at annual luncheon. Danie Henry, left, and Alexandra Aliu, Uniondale High School thenseniors, were honored at the Girls Inc. of Long Island's annual luncheon.

Courtesy Girl Scouts of Nassau County

Latin sounds took center stage at Uniondale High. The Rhythm of the Knight Show Choir was ‘excellent’ to work with, Symphonic Pops director Taylor Massey said, during their partnership and preparation for the ‘Sabor Sinfonico’ concert to showcase Latin music.

Community leaders rallied in Hempstead for parole justice. William Bailey, senior director of the New York Communities for Change, Hempstead branch, spoke out at a Hempstead rally on Dec. 4 about the need for statewide parole justice.

Nassau Coliseum lit up Uniondale for the holidays. Marvin Amazan, 2, had a big smile on his face meeting Santa at the Nassau Coliseum holiday kickoff lighting.

Toys of Hope Parade drew joyful crowd to Walnut Street. Carolina Flores and her children, Anthony, then-10, and Mia, then-8, attended the Toys of Hope Parade at Walnut Street School and got free toys.

Baking up sweet success in Uniondale. Philip-Michael Pierre, 13, has been selling cookies from his business, Philip’s Cookie Shop, since he was 7, and now he sells at local festivals and fairs.

Holiday magic at the Long Island Children’s Museum. Kids joined Santa Claus and Rudolph in hula hooping at the Long Island Children’s Museum’s inaugural Jolly Jamboree for the holiday season.

Holden Leeds/Herald

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Holden

Leeds/Herald

Steve Sachs/Herald

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Rhythm of the Knight Show Choir put on annual holiday spectacular. The Rhythm of the Knight Show Choir performed their annual holiday spectacular, bringing community members together in the holiday spirit.

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

Public Notices

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 January 9, 2025 at 2:00PM, 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: October 30, 2024 150329 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOC IATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET TRUST 2020-RPL1, Plaintiff, Against ROSALINA JOHNSON, Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/25/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/9/2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 278 Anchor Way, Uniondale, NY 11553, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, being at East Hempstead, Unincorporated, in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York.

Section 50 Block 33301

Lot 107

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $519,383.25 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 607898/2021

Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee.

SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Dated: 11/8/2024 File Number: 37728 mbayram 150333

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-18, Plaintiff AGAINST Nassau County Public Administrator, as Limited Administrator of the Estate of Mary Alice Turner a/k/a Mary A. Turner; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 8, 2025 at 4:00PM, premises known as 865 Southern Parkway, Uniondale, NY 11553. 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 286 Lot 131. Approximate amount of judgment $818,838.47 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 009443/2012. 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.” Cary David Kessler, 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: October 24, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 150325

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU PHH Mortgage Corporation, Plaintiff AGAINST Miguel A. Boquin a/k/a Miguel Boquin; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 24 Underhill Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 55 Block 319 Lots 1109, 1110, & 1111. Approximate amount of judgment $673,242.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608463/2022. 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.” Matin Emouna, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: October 24, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 150327

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT.

NASSAU COUNTY. MTAG, AS CUSTODIAN FOR ALTERNA FUNDING I, LLC, Pltf. vs. DANIEL C. BROWN, et al, Defts. Index #002241/2017. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Nov. 23, 2022, I will sell at public auction on North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 371 First Place, Uniondale, NY a/k/a School District 2, Section 50, Block 109, Lot 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $21,571.20 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. ADRIENNE FLIPSE HAUSCH, Referee.

BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 703, New York, NY 10019. File No. 700999.132 - #101961 150461

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MFRA TRUST 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. DINA VENTURA A/K/A DINA M. VENTURA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 8, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on October 15, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 14, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 335 Locust Avenue, 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, Unincorporated area, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 47 and Lots 32-34. Approximate amount of judgment is $886,894.24 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616578/2019.

Lisa Segal Poczik, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 180599-2 150465

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Structured Asset Securities Corporation Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-AM1, Plaintiff AGAINST Gladys Arias; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 28, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 13, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 399 Hawthorne Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of

Nassau, State of NY, Section 34 Block 496 Lots 342, 343. Approximate amount of judgment $480,193.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 616925/2019. 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.”

Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: November 8, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 150459

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A, Plaintiff AGAINST PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA G. STAFFORD, UNKNOWN HEIRS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BARBARA G. STAFFORD 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. ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 8, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 14, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 324 MAPLEGROVE AVENUE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553. 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 and State of New York, Section 50, Block 48, Lot 44-45. Approximate amount of judgment $284,058.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616471/2018. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening

practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-004820 83278 150404

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS SEPARATE TRUSTEE OF GITSIT MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST BBPLC1, Plaintiff against SHAWN Y. BROWN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 31, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Premises known as 1068 Arthur Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. Sec 36 Block 148 Lot 190, 191 and 192. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $323,635.85 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 618169/2023. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Joshua D. Brookstein, Esq., Referee File # 11847969 150457

Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion. Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 7th day of January, 2025, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

BALDWIN

MADISON AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 125 feet west of the west curbline of Grand Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-536/24)

EAST MEADOW

GREEN VALLEY ROADwest side, starting at a point 260 feet north of the north curbline of Peters Avenue, north for distance of 20 feet.

(TH-553/24)

ELMONT

HUNNEWELL AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 161 feet south of the south curbline of Russell Street, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-519/24)

FRANKLIN SQUARE

JAMES STREET, west side, starting at a point 256 feet north of the north curbline of Benris Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-521/24)

McKINLEY AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 124 feet south of the south curbline of Garfield Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-534/24) WILLOW ROAD - north side, starting at a point 491 feet west of the west curbline of Birch Street, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-551/24) UNIONDALE BRAXTON STREET - north side, starting at a point 45 feet east of the east curbline of Ruxton Place, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-508/24)

NEWPORT ROAD - east side, starting at a point 152 feet north of the north curbline of Braxton Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-533/24)

GOODRICH STREETnorth side, starting at a point 466 feet east of the east curbline of Chester Street, east for a distance of 19 feet.

(TH-539/24) (NR) VALLEY STREAM

AMHERST AVENUEnorth side, starting at a point 193 feet east of the east curbline of Ocean Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-546/24) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped

persons:

BELLMORE

EAST ALDER ROADsouth side, starting at a point 167 feet east of the east curbline of Bellmore Avenue, east for a distance of 22 feet.

(TH-129/939/28/93)(TH-514/24)

FRANKLIN SQUARE

ROSEGOLD STREETsouth side, starting at a point 69 feet west of the west curbline of Randolph Avenue, west for a distance of 19 feet.

(TH-311/14 - 10/01/14) (TH-526/24)

UNIONDALE

ORCHARD PLACE - south side, starting at a point 246 feet east of the east curbline of Amsterdam Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-176/24 - 6/04/24) (TH-542/24)

(NR) VALLEY STREAM WYNGATE DRIVE - west side, starting at a point 54 feet south of the south curbline of Bretton Road, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-364/17 - 11/28/17) (TH-516/24)

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: December 10, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk

150614

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 75-2024

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 December 10th, 2024, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 75-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 75-2024, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: December 10, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150616

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 7th day of January, 2025, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 197-5 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “ARTERIAL STOPS” at the following locations:

FRANKLIN SQUARE

JAMES STREET (TH 517/24) - STOPAll traffic traveling west bound on Fenworth Boulevard shall come to a full stop.

JAMES STREET (TH 517/24) - STOPAll traffic traveling east bound on Fenworth Boulevard shall come to a full stop.

LEVITTOWN

JERUSALEM AVENUE (TH 422(B)/24) - STOPAll traffic traveling east bound on Eagle Lane shall come to a full stop.

LIDO BEACH

BLACKHEATH ROAD

NORTH (TH 515/24)-STOP

-All traffic traveling west bound on Fairway Road shall come to a full stop.

MERRICK

ALFRED ROAD WEST (TH 509/24) - STOP - All traffic traveling west bound on Hawthorne Avenue shall come to a full stop.

ALFRED ROAD WEST (TH 509/24) - STOP - All traffic traveling west bound on Willow Avenue shall come to a full stop.

SEAFORD

WAVERLY AVENUE (TH 520/24) - STOP -

All traffic traveling south bound on Alan Drive shall come to a full stop.

UNIONDALE

MILDRED PLACE (TH 530/24) - STOPAll traffic traveling east bound on Stanton Boulevard shall come to a full stop.

MILDRED PLACE (TH

530/24) - STOP -

All traffic traveling west bound on Stanton Boulevard shall come to a full stop.

MILDRED PLACE (TH

530/24) - STOP -

All traffic traveling south bound on Mildred Place shall come to a full stop.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 197-5 “ARTERIAL STOPS” at the following location:

LEVITTOWN

JERUSALEM ROAD (TH

422/24) - STOPAll traffic traveling east bound on Eagle Lane shall come to a full stop.

(Adopted 11/19/24)

ALL PERSONS

INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the

time and place aforesaid.

Dated: December 10, 2024

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 150612

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on The 7th day of January, 2025, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to REPEAL “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations:

UNIONDALE

ORCHARD PLACE (TH 176/24) South Side -NO PARKING ANYTIMEStarting at a point of 214 feet east of the east curbline of Amsterdam Avenue, east for a distance 32 feet.

(Adopted 6/4/24)

ORCHARD PLACE (TH 176/24) South Side - NO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point of 270 feet east of the east curbline of Amsterdam Avenue, east for a distance of 15 feet.

(Adopted 6/4/24) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: December 10, 2024

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150611

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 7th day of January, 2025, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 197-13 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “TRAFFIC REGULATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOLS” at the following location:

UNIONDALE

GOODRICH STREET (TH 539/24) North SideNO STOPPING 7AM TO 4PM SCHOOL DAYSstarting at a point 422 feet east of the east curbline of Chester Street, then east for a distance of 44 feet.

GOODRICH STREET (TH 539/24) North SideNO STOPPING 7AM TO 4PM SCHOOL DAYSstarting at a point 485 feet east of the east curbline of Chester Street, then east for a distance of 128 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 197-13 “TRAFFIC REGULATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOLS” from the following location:

UNIONDALE

GOODRICH STREET (TH 308/17) North SideNO STOPPING 7AM TO 4PM SCHOOL DAYSstarting at a point 414 feet east of the east curbline of Chester Street, then east for a distance of 194 feet.

(Adopted 9/19/17) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: December 10, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150613

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET TRUST 2021-GS1, Plaintiff, Against MARIE RAPHAEL, EDELINE L. SAUNDERS, ET AL, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 02/05/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/30/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1076 Northgate Court Square, Uniondale, New York 11553, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale (Unincorporated Area), in the Town of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York. Section 55 Block 532 Lot 24 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $601,359.45 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold

subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 616200/2022 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Samantha L. Segal, Esq., Referee.

SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Dated: 12/17/2024 File Number: 38281 MB 150694

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA

STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2019-HB1, Plaintiff, AGAINST UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF CORINE RAY A/K/A CORINE L RAY, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on October 31, 2024.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 755 Northgate Dr, Uniondale, NY 11553. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. 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 55, Block 531 and Lot 18. Approximate amount of judgment $470,123.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #001250/2016

The Knightime Jazz Band, directed by Colton Wynter and Joe Boardman, brought jazzy songs to the stage for the holiday concert.

Proud families recorded the choir students as they sang their hearts out.

Uniondale High School puts on winter concert

Uniondale High School put on a symphony of seasonal cheer at their annual winter concert. The Dec. 19 show brought together friends and families of the high school performers to enjoy a festive holiday show.

Guests were treated to a variety of performances by the school ensembles, who spent the past few months of school learning and practicing their songs. The recital struck a chord with the audience, as proud family members and friends

16-001250. Michael Alpert, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 150661

photographed and filmed the student performers.

The show featured the concert band, concert orchestra and concert choir, as well as the Knightime Jazz Band and Rhythm of the Knight Show Choir. It was the students’ final performance before their holiday break, and they went out in a harmonious celebration of the season.

Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on October 31, 2024, I, Adrienne Flipse Hausch, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on January 28, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys

–Kelsie Radziski

Steve Sachs/Herald photos

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

Amityville UFSD Food Service Workers PT/FT

Responsibilities- Food preparation & service, sanitation awareness, other duties as assigned by the District.

Qualifications- Knowledge and experience with cooking, inventory, cashiering, recordkeeping, customer service, computer skills **Suffolk County Food Manager's Certificate preferred. Salary range starting at $20,980. Email resume to: humanresources@amityvilleufsd.org or apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland

Amityville UFSD Substitute/Permanent Substitute Teachers

Elementary & Secondary Level

Qualifications: NYS Certification Salary: $150 per day Application: Interested candidates please apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour

Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460

E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role. Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

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 $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad

Welcome to an extraordinary residence offering the perfect balance of historic charm and modern luxury. Originally built in 1929 and completely renovated in 2024, this property is truly one of a kind. Imagine living just blocks away from the beach - this coveted location offers quick access

We’re replacing the front steps

Q. Our front steps are falling apart, and it’s going to cost a lot of money to get concrete foundation, new brick, etc. We were given an alternative to build wooden steps, and I was wondering, since I don’t see any wooden steps in my neighborhood, is it legal to have wood front steps and, if we can, what are the do’s and don’ts so we get this right?

A. Front steps are part of what I refer to as the presentation to passersby of your home’s appearance, so if that is a concern to you, the steps should be a reflection of the rest of the architecture, compatible and presentable. There is no code limitation on the material being nonflammable, so you can use wood.

I’m not a big fan of front steps made of wood, unless the rest of the house is of the same material. Even though I know there are many reasons to build out of wood, such as more lightweight construction, utilizing smaller foundation piers instead of larger concrete spread footings, and because the construction costs less, consider appearance and durability. Wood is more difficult and costly to maintain.

If you plan to use synthetic decking, a durable composite material, and polyvinyl or composite railings, again, consider cost and durability. The understructure, made of treated lumber, will never last as long as concrete, and the finish materials don’t take the abuse of moving washing machines, refrigerators and other large appliances in by way of your front door. The front door, by code, is required to be a minimum of three feet wide and is often the only door that is wide enough to get the large and heavy boxes into the house.

I speak from experience when I say that delivery people aren’t always as careful as you’d want them to be, and the nosing on my concrete paver block is now chipped and in need of replacement because of the new refrigerator we received. I watched them bang the box onto the step as the container was lifted, and even though I gritted my teeth, there was nothing to be done. Imagine what your beautiful wood or composite wood will look like the first time someone makes that heavy front-door package delivery.

Also, clearing snow and ice from the steps is going to pose problems if you use the edge of a shovel to scrape or chip the ice and snow.

I know that people say that nobody uses their front door, and that’s a terrific choice, but not practical, since I can’t imagine that all the uninvited people, like the postal worker, the delivery person, random solicitors and occasional guests, will enter through the side or garage door. And keep in mind that if you use wood, the fasteners should be hidden, and not top-face-nailed or screwed. With over 200 types of fasteners for this specific purpose, don’t let anybody tell you this can’t be done. Good luck!

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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Wanted

The

masthead

The box at the far left side of the page is called the masthead. It contains the newspaper’s flag, or nameplate. The masthead offers important information about the paper, including the names of the staff members who are responsible for producing it each week.

Publisher Stuart Richner guides the business and news operations of the 23 newspapers in the Herald Community Newspapers group. This includes the Nassau Herald, which serves the Five Towns, as well as Heralds for Baldwin, Bellmore, East Meadow, Franklin Square/Elmont, Freeport, Glen Cove, Long Beach, Lynbrook/East Rockaway, MalverneWest Hempstead, Merrick, Oceanside-Island Park, Oyster Bay, Rockville Centre, Sea CliffGlen Head, Seaford, Uniondale, Valley Stream and Wantagh.

Each paper’s editor is responsible for the assignment, selection and placement of stories, most of which the editors and reporters write. Deputy Editor Jeffrey Bessen oversees news operations for all the papers in the group.

The production department is responsible for the papers’ general design. The advertising and art departments produce the large, oftenillustrated display advertisements that appear throughout the papers. The classified department produces the smaller advertisements at the back of the papers.

The masthead also lists each paper’s age, the names of its founders, its address, email, and telephone and fax numbers, and provides notice that all contents of the paper are copyrighted.

Editorial comment

Editorials offer the opinions of the Herald. Editors write them, but they do not necessarily reflect the views of those writers. Rather, they are the institutional voice of the news organization.

That is why they are unsigned.

Herald editorial department heads meet regularly to plan the editorials. Independent reporting by our staff often helps inform our editorials. We might also speak with experts and advocates to gain their perspective before sitting down to write an editorial.

We are proud to say that we have won many state awards for our editorial writing over the years. But, in the end, it's sharing opinions that best reflect the views of you — our reader — that is most important to us.

Editorial cartoon

Editorial cartoons are almost as old as newspapers themselves. They date back to 18th century England, and are a staple of the modern American opinion section. Yet, opinions here do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Herald or its staff.

Dale Neseman, a syndicated cartoonist from the Buffalo area, creates a majority of the editorial cartoons seen in these pages.

For Advertising, call Rhonda Glickman, vice president of sales, at (516) 569-4000, ext. 250.

For Subscriptions, call Dianne Ramdass, circulation manager, at ext. 231.

HERALD

For your information . . .

Editorial page

HeraLd editoriaL

‘After-school’ activities benefit those of all ages

as the new school year begins on Long Island, students are returning not only to classrooms, but also to a vibrant world of extracurricular activities.

While we often associate clubs, sports teams and after-school programs with youth development, it’s crucial to recognize that the benefits of such involvement extend far beyond childhood and adolescence. In fact, adults in Nassau County and beyond have just as much to gain by getting involved in activities outside their daily routines.

For students, the advantages of participation in extracurriculars are well documented. A study published in the Journal of Youth Development found that students involved in such activities were 15 percent more likely to attend college, and had a graduation rate 12 percent higher than their uninvolved peers. Moreover, these students reported higher levels of self-esteem and lower rates of depression and anxiety.

Local success stories abound. Look no further than all of the Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists whose journeys begin in our local schools’ robotics and science research clubs. Or the many All-American student-athletes who lead

Letters

Fossil fuels, offshore wind and the need for climate action

To the Editor:

our high school teams to victory.

But the benefits of extracurricular involvement aren’t limited to the young.

Adults who take part in community organizations, hobby groups or sports leagues often report improved mental health, expanded social networks, and a greater sense of purpose. According to study in the Journal of Happiness Studies, adults who regularly engaged in group activities reported a 25 percent increase in life satisfaction compared with those who did not.

Nassau County offers a wealth of opportunities for adult involvement. Whether it’s signing up for a book club at the local library, joining a pickleball league in your neighborhood Nassau County park, or volunteering at the North Shore Animal League, there’s an avocation for everyone.

For those who are serious about physical activity, organizations like the Long Island Road Runners Club promote fitness and camaraderie among members of all ages and skill levels. Meanwhile, volunteering with groups such as Island Harvest offers a chance to give back to the community while forging meaningful connections.

The value of these activities extends

Re “To beat the heat on Long Island, we must fight fossil fuels,” by Lauren Krueger, and “Offshore wind is the answer for Long Island,” by Melissa Parrott: These two opinion pieces accurately pinpoint the negative role played by fossil fuel companies in combating climate change, and stress the need to rapidly move toward 100 percent renewable energy.

As Krueger shows, the fossil fuel companies have lied to the public for years about the science and dangers of climate change — caused principally by their own products — and continue to spread misinformation and fear about critical renewable energy projects, such as offshore wind. And Parrott makes the point that offshore wind, an inexhaustible, renewable, affordable energy resource available off our South Shore, will go a long way toward meeting our energy needs, safely and in an environmentally friendly manner. Offshore wind is key to our energy future, and to saving our planet.

Unfortunately, there is currently insufficient action to halt the climate chaos we are now experiencing. We are running out of time. The bottom line is this: As the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has stated, to halt the rapid global heating we are now experiencing will require deep changes in the basic social, economic and political institutions we currently have.

One obvious and necessary change is to limit the

beyond personal fulfillment. A report by the Corporation for National and Community Service, also known as AmericCorps, found that volunteers have a 27 percent higher likelihood of finding employment after being out of work compared with non-volunteers. This statistic underscores the networking and skill-building aspects of extracurricular involvement.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed by work and daily responsibilities. However, engaging in extracurricular activities provides a crucial balance, offering opportunities for personal growth, stress relief, and community connection. As we watch our children discover new passions and develop important life skills through their afterschool pursuits, let’s take inspiration from their enthusiasm and curiosity. This fall, as Long Island’s students dive into a new year of learning both in and out of the classroom, let’s make it a community-wide initiative to explore the rich tapestry of extracurricular activities available to those of all ages. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives, but also contribute to the vibrancy and interconnectedness of our communities.

JIM BROWN

Kamala Harris

Editor:

“Momalas for Kamala, a thread to unite us,” by Randi Kreiss (Aug. 8-14):

of this writing, Vice President

Harris still has not met with

IWhat are the editorial pages all about?

Who writes editorials?

How do letters and guest columns get published?

This week’s pages offer some answers to our readers. We thank The Riverdale Press and The Seattle Times for the idea.

Opinion pages

Behind the mask: the flaws in Nassau’s new law

magine a law introduced to fight hate and bigotry — yet it is so flawed that it inadvertently shields those very perpetrators from justice.

That’s precisely what happened on Aug. 5, when the Nassau County Legislature’s Republican majority pushed through its so-called Mask Transparency Act — a law that, despite its intentions, opens the door to unintended consequences. At first glance, the measure appears to be a strong stance against antisemitism, aimed at unmasking those who would hide behind disguises to commit hateful acts. As a Jewish parent, I understand the appeal of such a measure. But as a former prosecutor, I can’t ignore the fact that this law is not only unconstitutional, but also dangerously impractical.

In this instance, the devil is in the details — or rather, in the lack of them. The legislation is rife with ambiguities that could turn ordinary citizens into targets of unjust prosecution, while allowing actual criminals to walk free.

The members of the Democratic minority recognized these flaws early on, and proposed a more narrowly tailored bill focused specifically on punishing those who use masks to evade responsibility for criminal acts. The Democratic bill was not only clearer, but would have provided a more effective deterrent against those who commit crimes under the guise of anonymity. My colleagues and I also sought to work with the Republicans on a bipartisan solution that could have been both effective and constitutionally sound. Unfortunately, Republicans rebuffed these efforts, pushing through their version of the law without considering the potential consequences. Let me paint you a picture of how this could play out in real life. Imagine a man named Joe Schmoe who harbors deep-seated antisemitic views. He attends an anti-Israel protest outside Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, where he adds his voice to hateful and aggressive chants. The police maintain order throughout the event, but as it winds down, officers notice Schmoe throwing an empty beer bottle into the street. No one is injured, and no property is damaged, but Schmoe is wearing a

mask.

The officers, following the new law, ask Schmoe to remove his mask. He refuses. Asked why he’s wearing it, he remains silent. Left with little choice, the police arrest him — not for throwing the bottle, but for violating the Mask Transparency Act.

How do we prevent a guy with true hate in his heart from being acquitted?

Here’s where things get tricky. Schmoe is processed and eventually ends up in court, where he is provided a public defender, because he can’t afford his own attorney. His case lingers in the justice system for nearly two years due to backlogs. When the case finally goes to trial, the prosecution — funded by taxpayers — is tasked with proving that Schmoe wore the mask with criminal intent.

But his defense is simple: He claims he wore the mask because he wasn’t feeling well, and feared contracting Covid-19. How can the prosecution definitively disprove this claim? The jury, bound to follow the law as written, might very well have no choice but to acquit him. And just like that, the Mask Transparency Act becomes the perfect tool for committing what I call the “perfect crime.”

This is more than a hypothetical sce-

Letters

press. The Democratic National Convention last week continued the goodfeeling tour — and the evasion. The sanitizing of her positions on the issues, in contrast to her previous stances, and the avoidance of her failure as the “border czar” will have additional shelf life.

Her reputation as an abuser of her staff and the high turnover rate among them, as well as her unwillingness to do the work required as V.P., isn’t the thread the mainstream media is willing to look at. I can only hope the upcoming debate will focus on the issues and her record. It isn’t courage that Donald Trump needs to debate her, but rather the self-discipline to stay away from personal attacks that can only undermine him and cause an unnecessary distraction.

ToNy GIAMeTTA Oceanside

Thanks, Peter King, for reflections on Pete Rose

To the editor:

I read with deep interest Peter King’s column “Rethinking the embarrassing saga of Pete Rose (Aug. 15-21). I took particular interest in King’s shar-

ing of his views and questions with his son and grandson.

It seems to me that the complete truth of Rose’s behavior requires both an investigative exercise and collaborative testimony from others to support his claims. essentially, nothing he says should be believed unless the facts beyond his statements can be gleaned, and others can offer evidence in support of his behavior. Because his own previous testimony is both incomplete and untruthful, any decisions on whether to include him in the Hall of Fame must serve the public first and his request last.

The years, and now decades, of Rose’s lying about betting on baseball — and on the Reds in particular — bring up the need to ask other Hall of Fame members their thoughts on his potential induction, too. In particular, Johnny Bench, a colleague of Rose’s on the Reds, says no. Why? Because as Bench states, what rules or pledges of honestly about gambling should our children learn from Rose?

So far, his decades-long behavior suggests there are no pledges from him that we should believe are examples of his character or integrity. When it comes to teaching children, as Bench states, the entire acceptance test is based on character and truthfulness.

Not accepting Rose into the Hall of

nario; it’s a real possibility under this poorly crafted law. The resources spent on prosecuting someone like Schmoe, who walks away unscathed in the end, could have been better used to target those who seek to harm others.

The sad irony here is that the Mask Transparency Act was meant to protect communities from hate and violence, but instead it creates legal loopholes that make it harder to hold the guilty accountable. The law’s vague language and broad scope mean that it can be easily manipulated, turning a well-meaning but seriously flawed piece of legislation into a shield for those it was meant to expose.

Nassau County needs to pass laws that are both constitutionally sound and effective in practice, and the Mask Transparency Act fails on both counts. Instead of deterring hate, it risks emboldening those who seek to evade justice by exploiting the very law designed to stop them. We deserve better — and we deserve laws that are precise, enforceable and, above all, just.

The fight against hate is too important to be left to legislation that does more harm than good. It’s time for our leaders to go back to the drawing board and craft solutions that truly protect our communities.

Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.

Framework by Nicholas Fowler

Opinion columns

We publish three columns in each edition of the Herald every week. Columns represent the views of the writers themselves, not of the Herald. Each writer works independently and chooses his or her own subjects.

Among our regular contributors are former U.S. Rep. Peter King, former State Assemblyman Jerry Kremer and the Nassau Herald’s former executive editor, Randi Kreiss.

We also feature columns by a wide variety of elected leaders, local, county, state and federal, on a rotating basis. And we regularly invite guest columnists who are not involved in politics — including members of our editorial staff — to offer their views.

Special features

The op-ed, or opposite the editorial, page features a weekly Framework photo, which is chosen by our photo editor, Tim Baker. The Framework offers a creative, at times humorous outlet for our photography staff. In this spot, we also publish photos sent to us by readers featuring them on vacation, reading the Herald at various international landmarks. We call it Herald Around the World. At times, a correction might appear on the op-ed page. We strive each week for the highest standards of accuracy and accountability. When we make mistakes in our reporting, we believe we must own up to them and correct the record.

Fame teaches our children that dishonesty can never be rewarded. o ur society must stand for something, and recognize integrity and character.

Pete Rose is an undesirable candidate

for the Hall of Fame. Despite his performance as a player, he is unqualified.

Joe ABATe Island Park

Letters to the editor

We welcome your letters to the editor, and publish most that we receive. We believe these letters are critically important, because they reflect the shared voices of the communities that we cover.

Letters should be 250 to 300 words in length. Each letter must include an address and phone number. Our editors call all letter writers to confirm the authenticity of letters before publication.

We edit letters for length, grammar, spelling and foul language. We do not censor viewpoints.

If we believe a letter requires major revisions, we will send it back to the writer and ask that he or she change it so that meaning and intent are not lost.

Readers can send letters to the editors of their hometown newspapers, or to execeditor@liherald.com. They can be sent by email (preferred), fax or mail. All contact information is listed on the masthead and on our website, LIHerald.com.

What more fitting place to end the summer than at The End? — Montauk Lighthouse