Holden Leeds/Herald For over three decades, Sylvan Place, in Valley Stream, transformed its friendly holiday light rivalry into a community tradition, drawing droves of visitors each year, including Joseph Rodriguez, above, with his toddler William.
By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com
The parties thrown on this quarter-mileplus stretch of street in Valley Stream make local headlines year after year — not for rowdy noise complaints or over-the-top antics, but for exemplifying what many American neighborhoods increasingly seem to lack yet deeply crave: a wholesome sense of community among neighbors and friends.
That’s how Alex Carr sums up the purpose and unique selling point of the most recent Annual Holiday Block Party, on Dec. 21.
“I’m still trying to keep that old familystyle block going,” he said. “Everyone always tells me that they can’t believe that this type of a block still exists.”
For more than three decades, what began as a friendly rivalry among residents of Sylvan Place in Valley Stream to best one another on the flashiest illuminated house during the holidays, has grown into a cherished community event, drawing dozens of visitors each season.
Carr, 60, who has lived on Sylvan Place for nearly his entire life, enjoyed seeing the diversity of decorations neighbors adorned on their lawns and houses. His house was no exception.
“I have a menorah next to a snowman next to a Happy Hanukkah sign next to a penguin,” he said. Since 2014, the street’s dazzling displays
By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com
Jaimie Bodner has always excelled as a caretaker of others but never felt at ease being on the receiving end. His severe and sudden bout of health problems left him with no choice.
Bodner, 77, said it started sometime last February. “I’ve known my general practitioner for 40 years,” he said. “He had to sit down when he looked at what was in my brain.”
clear of his medical problems.
A bleeding that wouldn’t stop
Not long afterward, he was reeling on the floor from agonizing pain in his abdomen. He was ferried over to the hospital for treatment. Once discharged and a catheter removed, it wasn’t too long before severe bleeding and paralyzing pain would strike again, landing him back in emergency care.
E verything that I feel about patient relationships, that’s what they feel.
A brain scan revealed seven aneurysms — dangerous bulges in a blood vessel that could burst and cause life-threatening bleeding. In hospital, doctors also discovered he would need a heart ablation, a procedure to correct irregular heart rhythms that could lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, or even stroke if untreated.
JAimiE BOdNER
former Valley Stream
dentist
Thanks to a heavy dose of radiation, the surgical procedure proved successful and a relieved Bodner thought he was
“This went on back and forth for weeks,” he said. “There were nights in the ambulance I just wanted to quit.”
Medically, what he was suffering from was a condition known as radiation cystitis, according to Dr. Devendra Brahmbhatt, a vascular surgeon at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital. The radiation therapy might have saved his life but not without causing severe, unintended collateral damage to the tissue around his bladder.
“The radiation affects your
Continued on Page 11
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Sogna Bella Santana has been carrying a tune since before she could even talk. She would hum along with her grandfather and copy the melodies he sang. By age four, Sogna’s mother signed her up for dance classes, but she couldn’t keep herself from singing along to the songs. Soon after, she began performing in children’s productions, landing several lead roles, including the title role in “Annie.”
Then, on June 26, at just nine years old, Sogna won Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater.
Sogna, originally from Franklin Square, recalled the moment she found out she’d be performing at the famous theater. She said she got off the bus after school and her mother, Gloria, told her she had a surprise for her. “I was like, ‘What is it? A toy?’” Sogna laughed. “But she goes, ‘No. You’re going to sing at the Apollo.’”
“It’s very competitive,” Gloria said. “You have to audition, so you have to be talented already.” For her performance, Sogna sang “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston. Gloria said she got a standing ovation.
After winning Amateur Night, Sogna received a large $5,000 check and was invited back to perform at the Apollo’s Amateur Night: Holiday Special on Dec. 14. Sogna sang “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston again, and then Kelly Clarkson’s cover of “Run Run Rudolph.”
Sogna said she performs anywhere she can. She performs at a senior rehab center, at her church, at her school and even at the Massapequa Uncle Giuseppe’s supermarket on Sundays if there happens to be a microphone available, of course.
While Sogna never had formal training, she does participate in a performing arts studio, American Dance and Drama Studio, under the direction of JoAnn Cifala Sciretta. “This child was born to sing,” Sciretta said. Of all the students Sciretta has had in the 51 years running her studio, she said Sogna has the talent it takes to succeed in the industry.
“She definitely has the equipment,” she said, referring to Sogna’s voice. “As far as students I’ve had over the years, and people I have worked with in theater, she’s on top of the list of making it very big.”
With all the performing Sogna does, Gloria said she’s a surprisingly calm kid. Gloria pointed out that she, herself, is the one who is stressed during Sogna’s performances.
Sogna quickly nodded in agreement with her mother. “I’m at the Apollo and I’m usually playing with the kid contestants,” Sogna said. “And then my mom is talking with the other moms, nerve-wracked!”
Daniel Santana, Sogna’s father, said the night Sogna won at The Apollo, both he and Gloria were in shock. “I don’t even know how Gloria composed herself,” he said. “And that was the first time I actually jumped out of my seat.”
Sogna said right before her performance, she did get nervous, but only for a moment. “I was shaking,” she said. But Sogna learned how to control her nerves through her spirituality. “I pray, and then all my nerves go away,” she said.
In the days leading up to Sogna’s performance at the Dec. 7 tree lighting at Garden City South Park, Sogna said she experienced something very distressing to her. “I wasn’t hitting the notes that I used to,” she said. “I was really upset. I was crying because I just couldn’t do it. And I was just like, ‘Why now?’”
Gloria said Sogna was stressed because she was learning so many songs in a short period of time. She had to learn two songs for America’s Got Talent auditions, two songs for the tree lighting, the national anthem and “God Bless America.”
“I think it kind of mentally blocked her,” Gloria said. At that point, she decided to let Sogna rest for a few days. “I told her not to even think of it. No sing-
ing, nothing.”
Suddenly, five days later, Sogna tried singing “Run Run Rudolph” again and finally hit the note. “I hit that first note and I just went, ‘Yeah!’” Sogna exclaimed.
Daniel and Gloria said it takes a careful balancing act to make sure Sogna gets time to be a kid in between her performances and commitments. Sogna said she has many other hobbies, such as sewing, weaving, crafting and watching Disney movies.
“Letting her be a kid is the most important thing for us,” Daniel said. Gloria agreed and said she tries very hard to give her time to relax and enjoy her hobbies. The two said Sogna decides when she wants to stop practicing and start playing.
Sogna has a great attitude about performing, her parents added. When they asked Sogna what she would have done if she lost Amateur Night at the Apollo, she said despite her disappointment, she would just go back and try again.
“It’s going to be a lot of battles and a lot of growing up,” Sciretta said. “But what I’ve seen of her attitude so far, she’s street smart about her talent.”
Daniel said he is humbled to know his daughter is so gifted. Her name, Sogna Bella, translates to “beautiful dream,” which reminds him that Sogna is a gift every day. “She’s a very rare child,” Daniel said. “She’s a really, really old soul. I can’t tell you how many people tell us how blessed we are.”
As for Sogna, her grandfather is what keeps her singing. She said her grandfather performed as a guitarist in a band when he was young. He passed his talent down to Gloria, who dances, and then Gloria passed down the talent to Sogna, who sings. “I want to continue the bloodline,” Sogna said. “I want to do it for my grandpa, who started the whole thing.”
Sogna said she knows how proud her parents are, and she loves the sense of accomplishment she gets from making people happy with her performances. In the future, she said she’d like to perform on America’s Got Talent, American Idol and on Broadway. “And I want to be the next Whitney Houston!” Sogna laughed.
To view Sogna’s performance at the Apollo Theater, visit ApolloTheater.org/Amateur-Night.
Belmont Park Village hosted a weekend of family-friendly holiday festivities on Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22 at their shopping village in Elmont.
The Corporate Transparency Act came into being this year as part of the AntiMoney Laundering Act. This act is designed to combat terrorism, tax fraud and moneylaundering. Under the act, corporations and LLC’s are required to report who their “beneficial owners” are in a Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOI report) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement network (FinCEN) on an annual basis. The BOI report is due by January 13, 2025 for entities formed before 2024 and within 90 days of formation or registration for entities formed in 2024. For entities formed after 2025, the BOI report is required to be filed within 30 days.
The BOI report must contain the following information:
1. The entities’ full name (and any alternative names which it is doing business under)
2. Address
3. Where it was formed or registered
4. Its tax id number (EIN)
The BOI report must include the following information for each “beneficial owner” — defined as any individual who has “substantial control” over the entity or owns or controls at least 25%. “Substantial control” means serving as a senior officer, having authority to remove a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors, or in charge of or having substantial interest over major corporate decisions. The trustee of a trust may be a “beneficial owner” if the trust owns an interest in the entity.
The “beneficial owner” must report:
1. Full legal name
2. Date of birth
3. Home or business address
4. Identifying number from passport or driver’s license along with scanned copy of the document.
For help in reporting, search fincen.gov, call the helpline at 800-949-2732, or google “help with fincen reporting” to locate online services that will assist with the application for a fee.
The village’s shops and outdoor courtyards were decorated with holiday lights, and fire pits were available to guests to keep warm in the cold weather. Guests were served complimentary hot chocolate, festive candies and bagels.
From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, activities available to guests included writing letters to Santa, decorating dreidels and eating Hanukkah gelt at one of the village’s food destinations, Pret A Manger.
Guests who attended on Sunday had an opportunity to meet Santa from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and take a photo with him. Other guests walked around the village and shopped for gifts in the boutiques.
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James A. Dever Elementary School’s gymnasium was transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the school’s annual Winter Ball, hosted by the ParentTeacher Association. The event brought together students, families, and staff to celebrate the season in a cozy and festive atmosphere.
The gymnasium, adorned with sparkling snowflakes, twinkling lights, and winter-themed decorations, created the perfect backdrop for an evening of fun and togetherness. The Winter Ball invited students and their families to wear their most festive and cozy pajamas, adding an extra layer of comfort to the holiday spirit.
Throughout the night, attendees participated in a variety of engaging activities, from holiday crafts and games to a dance floor where families could groove to festive music. Kids had the chance to create their own winter-themed crafts, and there were plenty of photo opportunities with a special winter
scene backdrop. Families also enjoyed delicious seasonal treats and snacks as they mingled and celebrated the season together.
The PTA played a pivotal role in organizing this beloved event, which has become a cherished tradition for the James A. Dever community. “The Winter Ball is a wonderful way for our students and families to connect and celebrate the holiday season in a fun and relaxed atmosphere,” said Darren Gruen, Principal of James A. Dever Elementary School. “We are grateful for the support of our parents and teachers in making this event a memorable experience for everyone.”
–Juan Lasso
James A. Dever students enjoyed a festive winter ball this holiday season.
East Meadow Senior Basketball
AFTER HELPING LEAD the Jets to a historic 2023-24 season that ended in the state semifinals, Twible got her senior campaign off to a roaring start by reaching the 1,000-career point milestone Dec. 10. She was named Frist Team All-Long Island as a junior and was a major part in East Meadow’s first-ever Nassau County and L.I. championship teams. Twible has avearged close to 20 points per game over the past two seasons.
Thursday, Jan. 2
Wrestling: Plainedge at MacArthur 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Manhasset 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 3
Boys Basketball: Friends Aca. at Long Beach 12 p.m.
Wrestling: Kenndy at Hewlett 4 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Farmingdale at West Hemp 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Lawrence at North Shore 6 p.m.
Wrestling: Lynbrook at Clarke 6 p.m.
Wrestling: East Meadow at Long Beach 6 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Freeport at Seaford 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Oceanside 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Oceanside at South Side
Saturday, Jan. 4
Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook 10 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Division 11 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Malverne at Mineola 11 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Plainedge at Clarke 12 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Jericho at Kennedy 1 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 6
Wrestling: North Shore at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Carey 5 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.
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
First Valley Stream South lost homecourt advantage, then it fell victim to poor shooting and a balanced Valley Stream North team coming off its first defeat of the season.
The backcourt combination of junior Vincent Rienzie (15) and sophomore Tristan Mitchell combined for 29 points Dec. 20 as North defeated the Falcons, 50-34, in a Nassau Conference VI boys’ basketball matchup held at Memorial Junior High School due to floor condition concerns in South’s gym.
“We lost in the first round of the playoffs last season and that was disappointing,” Mitchell said. “We’re determined to go further this season.”
Finding a site to move the game was the easy part, VSS athletic director Joe Guastafeste said. A decision was made around noon and tipoff was 5 p.m. He worked along with district AD Brett Kornblum to make for a smooth but hectic transition. “It was coordinating everything like alerting officials, supervisors, athletic trainers, cheerleaders and setting up busses,” he said.
The Spartans (7-1 overall) took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Falcons 18-11 after trailing by a point after eight minutes. Rienze had seven points in the second and senior Gavin Ferreira sank a clutch trey as North held a 26-20 lead at intermission.
“I thought we played really well and the kids stuck together,” VSN head coach Mike McVeigh said. “We have an unselfish group.”
North kept the gas pedal down in the third quarter and extended its cushion to 15. Rienzie (six) and Mitchell combined for 11 points, and junior Matthew Hunt added a couple of baskets as the Falcons struggled hitting only three field goals in the quarter.
“We’ve had some nice wins so far and we’re just looking to be more and more consistent every game,” McVeigh explained.
North beat South twice last season on the way to an 11-1 conference mark,
but the Spartans were eliminated early in the playoffs by Cold Spring Harbor. The Falcons failed to qualify, but head coach Mike O’Brien feels they can snap a playoff drought dating back five seasons.
“We couldn’t get many shots to fall tonight, but overall I’ve been happy with how we’ve been playing,” O’Brien said. “Our defense kept us in this game and I’m never concerned about the effort. The offense struggled for the first time all season and I think we’ll be OK.”
The Falcons (3-3 overall) scored at least 64 points in each of their first five games, but had only one-double digit
scorer in the loss to North. Junior forward Jaden Pryce had 12. Senior AllCounty point guard Brady DelValle, who opened the season with 36 against Hewlett and followed with three straight 20-plus point performances, was held to 8 and fouled out with less than two minutes left.
“DelValle is one of the best players in the conference,” McVeigh said. “We were trying to stop him from going off like he does most games. Omarion Holder defended him most of the game and I thought he did a really good job.”
North hosts the rematch on Feb. 1 at noon.
Valley Stream South High School held a ribbon-cutting ceremony this fall to celebrate the grand opening of the Falcon’s Nest, a new mindfulness and meditation space located in South’s guidance suite. Designed to help students unwind and recharge during their school day, the Falcon’s Nest allows students to relax amid their busy schedules and provides access to the various mental health and support resources available in the guidance suite.
Although meditation is the central attraction at the Falcon’s Nest, students can also read and listen to music; color; create origami figures; and play with fidget toys, puzzles, and games, all while listening to soothing sounds. Students are also provided guided meditations and offered information on the latest mindfulness strategies and calming techniques.
“We believe it is important to give all students the resources necessary to self-regulate and understand the utility of mediation amid the world’s demands,” said Principal Matthew Swinson. “The Falcon’s Nest teaches these skills early. These tools are available to help navigate feelings throughout the day and give both mind and body a break.”
One of the South community’s primary goals is to support students’ mental well-being. In support of that goal, South’s wellness suite has hosted events and activities such as making glitter jars, visits from a therapy dog, guest speakers, and art projects.
–Juan Lasso
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The Willow Road Elementary School Glee Club brought festive joy and holiday spirit to the community with a lively performance at the Franklin Square Morton Civic Association’s Annual Holiday Event recently.
The talented young singers filled the air with traditional holiday songs and cheerful melodies. Their performance was met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, spreading warmth and joy to all who attended.
The Glee Club’s rendition of classic holiday tunes created an uplifting atmosphere, embodying the essence of the season. The students, dressed in festive attire, showcased their dedication and passion for music, and their performance was a heartwarming highlight of the event.
The Franklin Square Morton Civic Association’s holiday gathering is an annual tradition, and this year’s event included a variety of festive activities, bringing families together to celebrate the season. The Willow Road Glee Club’s performance was a perfect complement to the evening’s festivities, leaving attendees with smiles on their faces and a sense of holiday joy. Since 1951, Morton Civic Association has been a community staple in the Franklin Square and West Hempstead. The nonprofit helps neighbors out with quality of life concerns and organizes wholesome events throughout the year to help bolster community pride.
–Juan Lasso
have been accompanied by a block party that’s become a hallmark of the season. Barricades and auxiliary police close off the street, turning it into a pedestrian haven. Families sip hot chocolate, munch on hot dogs, and receive gifts from Santa. The Valley Stream Fire Department adds to the festivities, inviting children to explore their trucks parked along the block and, for the first time, carrying Jolly Old Saint Nick.
“This is the one night in the year where everything bad is forgotten, all feuds are put aside, and we all laugh and enjoy,” Carr said.
Despite the festive cheer, the festivities were cut short by the blistering cold. “Jack Frost” had frozen out some of the usual fun, noted Carr, as residents and visitors grabbed a cup of piping hot chocolate outside and headed indoors to heat up. The unsung heroes of the night were neighbors Richie Dyer and Carol Schroeder who braved the below-freezing temperatures to staff the hot dog grill and hot cocoa stands.
Because of the need to fight off the frost this year, there was speculation of having a Christmas in July festivity in lieu of the December one, noted Carr.
Lights illuminate more than the night
But the event, nevertheless, continues to hold a deeper significance. At the heart of the celebration is a small donation box placed outside the Carr’s home. The box is a tribute to two former residents, Chris and Michael Smith, whose lives left indelible marks on the community.
Schroeder, who passed away from cancer in 2013 at 18, is remembered through donations to the Sunrise Association, which supports families of children battling cancer. Smith, who had Down syndrome and died the same year at 44, is honored through contributions to the ACHOR Program fund, which aids individuals with special needs in the Town of Hempstead.
“One of the reasons we do this, you know, besides the fact of the pleasure and everything, is to try to assist a couple of charities that could always use the assistance,” he said.
By Carr’s count, the block party has only been canceled four times — once
during the coronavirus pandemic and other times due to severe winter weather. Yet even in those rare moments of pause, the neighborhood’s sense of unity never dimmed.
“Everyone’s there for each other no matter what’s going on,” he said. “If there’s something bad about somebody who needs help, boom, people step in.”
This tight-knit atmosphere continues to draw people back to Sylvan Place, from those who no longer live there to those who delightfully stumble into its distinct vibe for the first time.
“I saw a lady who had arrived early with her son, go down to the Dunkin Donuts, and she sat there for 45 minutes to wait for the whole thing to start,” Carr said. “She said it was worth the wait.”
The houses on Sylvan Place remain aglow throughout December and into early January, welcoming hundreds of visitors daily. The busiest evening is typically the Saturday before Christmas when the block sees anywhere from 500 to 1,000 visitors. The twinkling light display and charity box will be out until Jan. 6.
The highlights of the annual Holiday Block Party included dazzling decorations, hot chocolate, hot dogs and Santa’s arrival.
urinary bladder by damaging and breaking down the whole inside of the bladder lining,” said Brahmbhatt. “It’s not like a single point of bleeding that you can put a clamp and close. Imagine 100 different places it may bleed. The whole thing oozes blood.”
For over 40 years, generations of Valley Stream residents knew Bodner as their hometown dentist — a beloved fixture with a reputation for honoring his appointments and being quick to dote on his patients.
“The people of Valley Stream gave me my career,” said Bodner. “I really enjoyed my practice. It was an old-fashioned, oldschool practice based on being kind to my patients.”
He could not recognize who he was But his dental practice and the independence with which he firmly built his identity were now slipping away, hostage to his body’s relentless failures. As he watched his life shrink into that of a man heading in and out of ambulances, emergency rooms, and doctor’s offices, Bodner described himself sinking into a dark place. At every downward step, his wife, Candy, willed him to get better.
“My theory is that I wasn’t put on this earth to have other people worry about me,” he said. “It was so strange to see my wife give up her life to help me, and I started to get to the desire to get better so
my wife can have her life back.”
Desperate for relief, Bodner’s doctor advised him of the promise of hyperbaric oxygen treatment and referred him to the Comprehensive Wound Care Center at LIJVS in Valley Stream. For two hours at a time, he lay inside a pressurized, capsule-like chamber, breathing pure oxygen at high pressure to jumpstart his body’s healing process. Healing would be slow-going and without guarantees. Bodner had been warned—the bleeding might come and go.
An extraordinary small gesture
One day after finishing a hyperbaric session, which was also “the first day my wife let me drive behind the wheel of the car by myself,” Bodner recalled, the bleeding returned. After phoning his urologist, he was urged to go home and have his wife drive him to the ER. Instead, compelled to seek a comforting face, he trudged his way over to the wound care center and tried opening the door. It was locked.
“I was crushed,” he said.
quickly took him in and phoned his wife.
“He sat me down and started to clean me up,” said Bodner who asked if Dr. Brahmbhatt, the wound care center’s medical director, could also come and see him. Upon learning of what happened, Brahmbhatt, who had clocked out for the day and was heading home, had turned his car around and did for Bodner what the dentist described as a rare gesture between healthcare workers and patients.
Brahmbhatt personally wheeled him to the emergency room. Both he and Field stayed with Bodner for the 45 minutes it took for his wife to arrive and implored him to keep going with his treatment.
It was the clearest confirmation for Bodner that he could entrust himself completely to the medical staff and finish his last leg of treatment.
“Everything that I feel about patient relationships, that’s what they feel,” said Bodner. By June of last year, after 60 socalled dives in the chamber, Bodner had fully recovered.
treatment, I couldn’t even walk,” said Bodner. “Now I’m walking four miles every morning. I’m a pretty small guy, and I have lost 20 pounds. I’ve gained all my weight back. Everybody tells me how good I look, and most of all, my wife’s care has brought me back to life.”
Bodner hasn’t returned to his practice but has found a newfound purpose as a volunteer at the wound care center. At first, Bodner felt awkwardly out of place. At orientation, the 77-year-old retiree was surrounded by aspiring volunteers who hadn’t even finished high school. Though four times their senior, Bodner has formed a big-brother bond with his fellow volunteers and is described by hospital officials as their biggest spokesperson.
“He’s actually kind of a point person where he’s put me in contact with different school districts and colleges to create new opportunities for young adults and high school students in showing them what it’s like to volunteer in a healthcare facility,” said Jaime Daniels, head of specialist, patient & customer experience at Northwell Health.
Moments later, Kyle Field, the technician overseeing Bodner’s hyperbaric treatment, who had stayed past closing time to finish some paperwork, emerged. Upon seeing a visibly shaken Bodner with his clothes soaked in blood, he
“Since then, he hasn’t bled,” said Brahmbhatt. “His catheter was taken out by his urologist. He is a new man.”
A life saved — and rededicated to serve “When I first started the hyperbaric
As a volunteer at the front desk and in the wound care department, Bodner is the “first person to greet patients, escort them, show them where they need to go,” said Daniels. “He even takes it to a different level where he’s walking them to the emergency room on the ground floor. He is a genuine man.”
Hot Wheels Monster Truck Live Show is back at Nassau Coliseum for another year of car-smashing, ramp jumping, wheel-revving action
By Danielle Schwab
Get ready, everyone. Gather up the kids and shake up those January doldrums when the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow party lights up Nassau Coliseum once again. Witness the raw power of epic machines when the iconic Hot Wheels toy vehicles transform into unstoppable monster trucks for the “Glow-N-Fire” competition.
“Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the action returns to Long Island, Jan. 18-19. As the arena darkens for this glow-in-the-dark party, each truck revs up with its unique LED lights. And, in true “It’s Not The Same Without The Flame” fashion, pyrotechnic effects light up the arena, adding even more intensity to the action.
• Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 18-19; times vary
• Tickets start at $63.85 adults, $35. 15 children (also “Me + 3” family discount option); available at ticketmaster.com and hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com
• Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale
It’s an especially big day for one particular truck: The classic blue vintage-style pick-up Bigfoot turns 50. Everyone is invited to the birthday bash. Plus, have the chance to be celebrated alongside the iconic monster truck. Bigfoot would love to see everyone’s creativity — so fans are encouraged to bring homemade birthday cards to wish Bigfoot a happy birthday. And show off those homemade birthday signs at the show for a chance to win prizes during the bash.
“Bigfoot is known as the original monster truck because this monster truck is what started monster trucks in general,” says Caleb Janezich, Bigfoot’s driver since July.
Owner-operator Bob Chandler first began building Bigfoot in 1975, and a legend was born. The modified 1974 Ford F-250 started its career at local mud runs and truck and tractor pulls. It quickly launched a worldwide phenomenon and its legions of fans. Chandler continued to make improvements and modifications until it grew into the massive behemoth known and loved today by multiple generations of fans.
“There are people that come up to us and the dad knows who Bigfoot is, and then maybe the kids are exposed to Bigfoot for the first time. Even the grandpas come up and they remember Bigfoot,” says Janezich, on Bigfoot’s popularity.
There’s surely no better way to commemorate the original monster truck than with incredible stunts performed by Bigfoot along with all his mechanical monster pals, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Boneshaker, and Gunkster.
Expect to see wheelies, donuts, and long jumps, along with a freestyle Motocross demonstration.
And of course, be prepared for plenty of good ol’ car crushing!
Also witness as the show unleashes its newest addition, Skelesauraus, a truck that takes the spine-chilling form of a giant skeleton head.
This is Janezich’s first time appearing at Nassau Coliseum, however he is no stranger to the Hot Wheels monster truck circuit. An avid collector of Hot Wheels since childhood, Janezich worked as a Bigfoot crewmember before taking up the driver’s seat.
“Bigfoot was always my favorite. I grew up around pickup trucks and four-wheel drives. My dad got me into it.” he says.
“It’s pretty humbling, and it’s really a dream come true. Honestly, they say, ‘if you do what you love, you never work a day in your life’ and that’s pretty much what I live by now.”
While the trucks may seem invincible, it take a dedicated team behind the scenes to keep them crushing to the max.
“The stuff that can be challenging is the unknown. You never know what these trucks are going to do sometimes, and the biggest challenge sometimes can just be just keeping them going and just making sure that we’re ready for the next show all the time, which we try to do very well,” Janezich adds.
Opportunities to go behind the action add to the spectacle. At the Pre-Show Party, held two-and-a-half hours prior to every performance, get up close and see the outrageous designs and epic size of the Hot Wheels behemoths on the arena floor. Meet favorite drivers and performers. Also check out the new VIP Backstage Experience. It’s a behind the scenes guided tour of what goes on before all the smashing and crashing.
Everyone becomes a kid at the show, which is geared to five to 10-year-olds.
“That’s the part that’s always cool because families are coming down and the parents get involved. When the parents are having fun, the kids are having fun, that’s what keeps them coming year after year,” Janezich says.
Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Photos: Bigfoot, driven by Caleb Janezich, headlines the latest edition of the spectacle. The iconic truck is joined by many Hot Wheels favorites to thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats, flying more than 35 feet in the air. Plus, the fiery Skelesaurus roars into the arena ready to “chomp.”
‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’
Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Kenny comes to the rescue. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/ backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — gets everyone into the groove as only they can.
Friday, Jan. 3, 8 p.m. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
‘…Your voice is heard’ Broadway comes to Tilles Center. “Dear Evan Hanson,” the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it, has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere. If you’ve yet to see it, now’s your opportunity. Declared “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by the Washington Post, it’s the first musical to take a groundbreaking look — from the point of view of both the parents and young people — at our complex, interconnected, and social media-filled lives. It features an uplifting score, including some of the most iconic musical theatere songs from the last decade: “You Will Be Found,” “Waving Through A Window,” and “For Forever.”
Thursday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
The kings of ‘70s tribute hit the road with an authentic throwback to the era, on the Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10-11, at 8 p.m. Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites listeners on a nostalgic voyage through the sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The dynamic Atlanta-based 10-piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the yacht rock genre. Their original album “Escape Artist” is a bold homage to this iconic sound. Each side of the album encapsulates the band’s ability to transport audiences to a simpler, more carefree time. Lead singles like “Tropical Illusion” and “Passengers” set the tone, evoking sunsets and salty breezes with their lush instrumentation and ethereal vocals.
Collaborations with yacht rock legends Elliot Lurie and Robbie Dupree underscore the band’s status as innovators within their genre. YRR continues to captivate audiences nationwide with their infectious energy and unabashedly joyous performances. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves. $55, $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com. Jan. 10
Nassau BOCES, Long Island’s state-of-the arts career and technical education high school, opens its doors to all students with a passion for hands-on careers, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6-7:30 p.m. Nassau BOCES GC Tech prepares students for a future in the workforce by providing them with the skills, knowledge and professional qualities they will need to be successful in their chosen career fields. The school boasts a new spa where aspiring estheticians learn skin care and massage techniques. There is also a newly revamped auto shop.
Prospective students and families from Nassau County are invited to tour the GC Tech campus and to meet with expert teachers, counselors and administrators. Additional open house sessions are offered in February and March. Interested students and their families can register for an Open House at nassauboces.org/gctech or call the school for more information at (516) 604-4200. 150 Abbey Lane, Levittown. Jan. 8
Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents,” Sunday, Jan. 5, 1:30-2 p.m., at the drop-in program. Join an animal educator in the Yellow Studio’s Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animal “residents.” Observe animal bath time. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
Teen Winter Trivia Waldinger Memorial Library host a round of Trivia Kahoot! for teens, Friday, Jan. 3, in the library’s children room. Bring a smartphone or iPad if possible. Registration is required. For more information, visit ValleyStreamLibrary.org or call (516) 825-6422. 60 Verona Place.
Grace Church Thrift
Grace United Methodist Church’s thrift shop is open every Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Find adult and children’s clothing and accessories, including shoes, coats, and pocketbooks. Browse the special table replete with jewelry, electronics, household and kitchen items, art, and more. 21 S. Franklin Ave.
Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.
The Village of Valley Stream holds their regular Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on Thursday, Jan. 2, 7 p.m., at Village Hall. 123 S. Central Ave. For more information, visit Vsvny.org or call (516) 592-5142.
There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during, “Home for the Holidays” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. All fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, now through Sunday, Jan. 5. Licensing feels still apply. Prospective adopters can browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/ animal-shelter and also on the shelter’s Facebook page. 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 785-5220.
The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for another in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Sunday, Jan. 5, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet The group will meet in parking lot #3, off Exit 18 of the Southern State Parkway.
To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon. org.
The Village of Valley Stream hosts candlelight yoga at the Valley Stream Community Center in Arthur J. Hendrickson Park, starting Wednesday, Jan. 22, at 7:30 p.m. Attendees must register. There are no refunds or makeup classes. For more information, visit Vsrec. org or call (516) 825-8571. 123 W. Merrick Road.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition spans various world cultures through a range of media.
It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for the 2025 unique chamber music series, “Four Seasons in Music,” Sunday, Jan. 12, 3 p.m. The duoJalal ensemble-in-residence led by Kathryn Lockwood on viola, with percussionist Yousif Sheronick, violinists Deborah Buck and Emma Frucht and cellist Caroline Stinson presents a German flavored. Celebrating Germany’s rich history of extraordinary composers, including Bach, Mozart, Schubert and Brahms, to the less traditional, this concert will warm you up on a winter afternoon.
A reception follows. $56, $45 members. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For tickets and information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
WEDNESDAY| JANUARY 22 | 7:00PM
WEDNESDAY| JANUARY 29 | 5:00PM
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON TRUST, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS TRUSTEE OF MFRA TRUST 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. SEBASTIAN A. LEONARDI A/K/A SEBASTIAN LEONARDI, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 30, 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 22, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., premises known as 123 Albermarle Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 607 and Lot 22. Approximate amount of judgment is $545,528.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611066/2020.
Cary David Kessler, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 191501-3 150536
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF LONG BEACH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2004-2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-2, Plaintiff AGAINST ROLAND KATWAROO, CHANDRADAI KATWAROO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 24, 2018, 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 21, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 86 Fletcher Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 169, Lot 5, 6, 7. Approximate amount of judgment $272,870.67 plus interest
and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002574/2016. 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”. William Boccio, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-002896 83235 150528
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: DJSV Limited Liability Company LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 9/9/24. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 76 S Montgomery Street, Valley Stream, NY11580 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 150556
LEGAL NOTICE
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
THE BANK OF NEW YORK
MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATE HOLDERS OF THE CWABS INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-BC2, Plaintiffagainst - CASSANDRA N. CEAN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 29, 2018. 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 the 24th day of January, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
Premises known as 76 Southgate Road, Valley Stream, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11581. (SBL#: 39-540-15) Approximate amount of lien $1,104,538.81 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 005943/2012. Richard C. Lunenfeld, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: December 1, 2024
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 150608
LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-HE1, ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiffagainst - WILHELMENA KELLY, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 5, 2017. 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 the 23rd day of January, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at North Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York. Premises known as 1369 Carole Ct, Valley Stream, NY 11580-1515.
(Section: 37, Block: 660, Lot: 8)
Approximate amount of lien $740,829.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 003133/2015. Anthony W. Russo, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212
KELLY-69943 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: November 13, 2024
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 150604
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2005-4, RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN
ASSET-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2005-4, -againstDOLORES CARTER, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on October 28, 2024, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2005-4, RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2005-4 is the Plaintiff and DOLORES CARTER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 29, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1650 GREENWAY BOULEVARD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; and the following tax map identification: 37-640-13. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT VALLEY STREAM, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 608512/2019. Karl C. Seman, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New
Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages partnered with the Haitian American Family of Long Island, Inc. to host a Haitian immigrant resources clinic at her district office in Valley Stream on Dec. 14. According to a news release about the event, the clinic provided resources and personalized support to Haitian immigrants in the 22nd assembly district.
The clinic, facilitated by the social workers of HAFALI, offered one-on-one assistance to assess individual need and connect constituents to a variety of services. The news release said all services were available in Haitian Creole for inclusivity and effective communication. The clinic provided resources including information on English as a Second Language classes, career readiness support and information on additional programs designed to assist immigrant families.
According to the news release, this initiative underscored Solages’ dedication to fostering inclusivity and providing tailored support to underserved communities. The news release said Solages’ collaboration with HAFALI highlighted the strength and unity of Assembly District 22’s vibrant Haitian community.
“As a representative of a diverse district, and as a Haitian American myself, I was proud to work with HAFALI to ensure that our Haitian immigrant neighbors have access to the resources and tools they need to thrive,” Solages said. “Together, we created opportunities and broke down barriers. There will be more to come, the job is not finished.”
The news release said the Haitian American Family of Long Island expressed their appreciation for the col-
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. 150651
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-KS2,
laborative event. “Our mission is to empower Haitian families by addressing their unique needs in a culturally relevant way,” said Maryse Emmanuel Garcy, who is the co-founder and executive director of HAFALI. “This clinic was an important step in providing meaningful support to the community we serve.”
This collaborative effort, the news release said, reflected a shared commitment to fostering equity and ensuring that every constituent, regardless of language or background, has the opportunity to succeed.
-againstRONALD AUGUSTIN, 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 August 3, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-KS2 is the Plaintiff and RONALD AUGUSTIN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100
SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 28, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 235 DOGWOOD ROAD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; and the following tax map identification: 37-541-43. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 606069/2021. Scott H. Siller, 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. 150649
Wanted
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
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
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
ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT
Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250 PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS
Welcome to an extraordinary waterfront home that masterfully blends contemporary design with unmatched resilience. Constructed on 42 pilings with steel-reinforced block concrete, this 5,600-square-foot residence is built for exceptional energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. Inside, you'll find 5 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 luxurious baths, and three expansive decks, two front-facing and one rear, complete with a gas hookup. The open floor plan is beautifully appointed with hardwood floors, a gas-burning fireplace, and high-end appliances. For year-round comfort, the ground and lower levels are equipped with radiant heat. The expansive yard is a true retreat, with a versatile cabana that can be enjoyed in any season. Perfectly located close to the LIRR and the west end, this home is on the open bay, adjacent to a scenic waterfront walking path, and minutes away from a platinum
Q. After much research, we chose brick for our new house. It has been a nightmare getting satisfaction from the mason who did the work. We noticed after only a few months that there were white powder-like streaks across the brick walls in many places. We spoke with the brick manufacturer, who said it sounded like an installation problem or streaking from other materials around it. The mason came back and looked at it. He used acid and brushed one spot and it lightened up but didn’t go away. He seemed annoyed with us, and said he could “send someone” to brush and put more cleaner on, but the whiteness would remain and it would have to “weather” after that. We had a sample wall built to make sure the color was right, and really went to a lot of effort for our choices. We are upset that the mason acted like it was our fault for complaining. We selected brick for high durability, weather resistance and low to no maintenance, and now we have this problem. What could have caused it, and is there any other remedy?
A. Brick was a great choice for all the reasons you described, and will outlast generations of occupants if installed correctly. The whiteness may be caused in a few ways. You have to first know what caused it.
Trim materials, above and around brick, will streak from the wrong paint on roof-edge or topof-wall trim. If the paint used was interior latex water-soluble paint, it will separate and run. Prefinished metal, factory finished, will also start to chalk and run. If a highly pigmented paint with low-resin binder was used, then the same results occur. The brick will be somewhat cleanable, but will have to be exposed to many cycles of rain, heat, freezing, etc., also known as weathering.
Because the mason did not mention the runoff of paint from trim, I suspect that your problem is the worst-case scenario, and all the cleaning with muriatic acid and a steel brush will not solve the staining entirely. Wire brushing or high powerwashing actually harms brick, because that amazingly strong fired-finish on the brick, the reason brick is such a good resister of the elements, is now going to be broken down to a grainy finish that can harbor mildew.
Sadly, the issue was completely preventable, either by using trim that did not lose color or by the brick installation. Yes, the brick installation. It starts with not having the correct width of the foundation to carry the brick, so it is installed too close to or right against the exterior plywood. That airspace is supposed to be 2 inches, clear, behind the brick, so rain that gets sucked into the mortar joints can drop behind the brick and “weep” from weep holes at the bottom of the wall. If you do not have weeps, then the wall was installed incorrectly and the problem will continue. 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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As the season of giving comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on not just all we have to be thankful for, but on those who still need our support. While there are certainly plenty of domestic issues, and Americans in need, we cannot forget the people of Ukraine, who are nearing the end of their third year of war with Russia.
The conflict, which has cost the lives of roughly 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers and over 11,000 civilians, has put on display the very real threat authoritarianism is posing to democracies all around the world today. And the people of Ukraine, who spent decades under Soviet rule and centuries under czarist rule before that, know how important their right to self-determination is, because they know what it means to live under a regime without rights. Here in America, where we’ve had the luck and privilege to live under a democratic government for our entire history, it can be easy to brush aside these kinds of conflicts by claiming that certain areas or certain cultures are used to con-
flict. We hear it about the Middle East all the time: so-called “experts” who assert that the region has “always been at war,” and that one ethnic group or another “doesn’t understand democracy.”
I don’t buy it.
As our Founding Fathers knew too well, human beings are born with an innate desire, and a right, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. While we may think of these words as uniquely American, I’ve always believed that they were written not just with our country’s population in mind, but as a fundamental fact of the human condition.
Wmyr Zelensky chose to stay in Kyiv in 2022, when the capital city refused to fall, and every day since, his people have had one message for Putin and the world: We will not go quietly.
When our nation was in its infancy and fighting for its existence, we relied heavily on the support not only of foreign nations like France and Spain, but on the extraordinary efforts of individuals from around the world who recognized that our fight for independence wasn’t just a local conflict, but a global one, that of freedom vs. tyranny.
e can’t turn our backs on a country that is fighting for its sovereignty.
And the people of Ukraine have shown their desire for these universal rights with a determination and tenacity that has allowed this country of only 37 million to face down, and frequently defeat, a richer and larger nation with nearly five times its population. And Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own rights and sovereignty. They are the first line of defense against the deranged, ahistorical and plutocratic worldview that Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian oligarchs are so desperate to spread.
When Ukrainian President Volody-
AThe analogy isn’t perfect. Ukraine isn’t fighting to win its independence from its mother country, but is fighting instead to maintain its sovereignty in the face of foreign aggression. But the fact remains that its people, who have seen family members’, friends’ and loved ones’ lives destroyed by the aggression of a brutish dictator, deserve not only our respect and admiration, but our help.
You may think, “But I’m only one person — what could I possibly do?” And obviously, no one person can end this conflict overnight (except maybe Rocky Balboa). But there are plenty of ways for us to do our part.
There are hundreds of international
charitable groups that are on the ground in Ukraine providing humanitarian aid, from UNICEF to the Red Cross. Other organizations, such as United Help Ukraine, Nova Ukraine and Razom for Ukraine, provide medical aid to tens of thousands of people and soldiers across the country.
There are also nearly 300,000 Ukrainian refugees now living in the United States, part of a diaspora of nearly 4 million Ukrainians, predominantly women, children and seniors, who have been forced to flee their homes in the face of ruthless Russian aggression. While many of these people have been kindly fostered by Americans, Europeans and people everywhere, there are always more people in need.
To learn more about how to host Ukrainian refugees, visit SupportUkraineNow.org.
Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own right to exist, but for the rights of people around the world struggling against conquest and the threat of extermination. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously declared, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” — and we can all do more to help Ukrainians restore peace in the country they love.
Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? WSheeline@liherald.com.
fter Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed the Planned Offshore Wind Transmission Act in the fall of 2023 due to local opposition to a wind farm’s high-voltage cables, the state had a trick up its sleeve.
The bill would have required the State Energy Research and Development Authority to establish transmission planning for the offshore grid, coupled with a requirement to conduct a costbenefit analysis that included the impact on ratepayers. In essence, the bill would have, for the first time, given New Yorkers insight into the true cost of implementing offshore wind projects and their transmission lines.
The question is, why did Hochul veto the bill? In addition to local opposition, I believe the answer is that if the public knew the true cost of these plans, people would ask hard questions about where money was being spent, and who was benefiting — questions the governor obviously doesn’t want raised.
In its infinite surreptitious reach, the
state concealed in its latest budget the Renewable Action through Project Interconnection Deployment, or RAPID, Act, granting it the authority to overrule local and public input. The state Office of Renewable Energy Siting would have final say on project siting, even over community objections.
Groups of so-called environmentalists, influenced by Hochul’s green agenda, have received millions of dollars to push the narrative that we need to move off fossil fuels now because the Earth is on fire. Before we go scorched-Earth, Let’s look at facts.
ties in residential and commercial areas.
i
t’s a mistake to plan for wide-scale solar and wind power in New York at this point.
The state took away local municipality and public involvement in the siting of renewable-energy projects and paused congestion pricing. Further, a report by the state’s Fire Safety Working Group falsely concluded that fires last year at three battery energy storage system facilities in New York state — which store the energy that wind turbines create — had no environmental impact, neglecting to include test results of hydrogen fluoride levels in the air, soil or water at those sites. What is even more disturbing is that the working group has written an inadequate code that allows for placement of BESS facili-
Long Island water comes from aquifers that, if polluted, would jeopardize the health of millions. Hydrogen fluoride gas produced in these fires turns acidic when mixed with water, becoming acid rain. This acid, in large enough concentrations, can dissolve concrete. Would you or your children want to drink water this contaminated? Apparently, Hochul doesn’t care about such consequences in her drive to rapidly implement green-energy projects.
This act-now-and-monitor-later mentality, regardless of the consequences, does nothing to put minds at ease. To date, no robust engineering analysis suggests that Hochul’s RAPID Act plan will work. There has been no rigorous analysis. Instead, evidence seems to indicate that the state’s planned installations of solar arrays, wind turbines, battery facilities and transmission cables will not reliably power the grid, and will not prove safe or affordable.
Worth noting is the Vineyard Wind offshore debacle off the coast of Nantucket last July, when a single turbine blade self-destructed, dropping 60 tons of plastic into the ocean and wreaking
havoc, closing beaches and impacting marine life, fishing, local businesses and communities. How future offshore wind catastrophes will affect shore towns, wildlife and commercial fishing isn’t known. But New Yorkers should realize that it’s a mistake, at this point, to plan the construction, let alone the funding, for dozens of gigawatts of solar and wind power — along with batteries 100 times the size of the world’s largest existing battery — and new transmission lines to tie all this to the existing grid.
Instead, we might better ask, first, who thought this was possible? and second, from empirical examples of places with significant intermittent energy — California and Germany — why did anyone think this would enable New York to cut fossil-fuel use and reliably and affordably power the grid?
Given the egregious overreach of Hochul’s RAPID Act, there should be an immediate halt to all Office of Renewable Energy Siting work as well as a prohibition on placing any renewable-energy facilities within residential communities and near schools. Taxpayers don’t want to be the subjects of a large-scale energy experiment, or a class-action lawsuit, as a result of the “next big idea.”
Christina Kramer is the founder and president of Protect Our Coast – Long Island, New York.
anew year always arrives freighted with emotion. It carries the accumulated hopes, frustrations and lessons of the previous 12 months, paired with the tantalizing possibility of transformation.
This year, as we look ahead, we find ourselves grappling with familiar challenges while daring to believe in the promise of better days.
One challenge we must confront is the growing fragmentation of our shared experiences. Increasingly, the global and local spheres seem to exist in parallel universes. A catastrophe halfway across the world — whether a climate disaster, political upheaval or humanitarian crisis — has the power to shape economies and policies closer to home, yet often feels distant, reduced to a fleeting headline.
Meanwhile, our more local and personal concerns — the cost of living, caring for family and doing well at work — demand urgent attention but risk being overshadowed by the constant churn of global issues. Bridging this gap requires a recalibration of priorities. The new year demands both outward-looking empathy and a renewed focus on strengthening the foundations of our own communities.
Economically, the year ahead will likely test the resilience of all levels of
To the Editor:
our government. Trust in institutions has eroded, but there are also glimmers of progress worth celebrating: advancements in green technology, a renewed emphasis on workers’ rights, and shifting societal attitudes toward mental health and well-being. These trends suggest that positive change, while slow, is possible.
We need to be optimistic, but that demands resolve. The climate crisis, for instance, is no longer a future threat but an immediate reality, underscored by the fires, floods and record-breaking temperatures of recent years. The urgency to act cannot be overstated, and yet real solutions remain politically fraught and logistically complex. We face the challenge of balancing personal responsibility with the recognition that systemic change requires collective action.
At the same time, the new year also offers a chance to reimagine what progress means. Growth, long equated with economic expansion, is being reconsidered in light of its environmental and social costs. These ideas challenge deeply entrenched narratives about success and prosperity, but they also open up the possibility of more inclusive, equitable futures.
Many of us also enter 2025 grappling with uncertainty. The relentless pace of
I agree with everything that Peter King wrote in “Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly” (Dec. 19-25). Though I never had the chance to meet the cast of “Blue Bloods,” they did feel like family. There has to be a show for people like us — born in Queens, my grandfather was with the Manhattan mounted police in the late 1920s, my cousins were with the Port Authority Police during the Colin Ferguson bloodbath on the LIRR and on Sept. 11.
We love the Police Department and everything they stand for. They are our angels on earth in these crazy times. I appreciated grace before meals as a practicing Catholic. So there are many people who loved “Blue Bloods,” but I’m sure the network needed to try to make even more money! No one cares about the audience, just the dollar sign.
NANCY ALBERTELLI East Meadow
To the Editor:
My father, like Mr. King’s, wore NYPD’s blue. Like Mr. King, I consider ‘Blue Bloods’ more nuanced than many cop shows. But his speculations about imagined opponents of the show, and his “unanswered questions,” are dubious.
technological change, the aftershocks of a pandemic and the simple unpredictability of life can feel overwhelming. Yet amid this turbulence, we find moments of connection and meaning. A neighbor’s kindness, a shared laugh, the rediscovery of an old passion — these small, often overlooked moments remind us why we persevere.
How do we handle the bad while making room for the good? We need to balance action with rest and contemplation, and ambition with gratitude. This requires recognizing that while we cannot solve every problem, we can contribute to their solutions.
As we step into the new year, we should resolve to move beyond empty platitudes. Instead of vague aspirations for “better days,” let’s strive for tangible progress: a stronger sense of community, a commitment to justice, and a willingness to adapt to changing realities. We should allow ourselves moments of joy, not just as a distraction from life’s difficulties, but also as a reminder of its possibilities.
It isn’t easy. There are always setbacks and frustrations, but there are also breakthroughs, large and small, that remind us of our capacity to endure, to grow and to create a better future. The new year’s gift gives us the opportunity to begin anew.
No doubt, the cast members are all outstanding people and first-class actors, but they were performers acting out dramatic scripts. It’s all fiction, and we can enjoy “as if” for the hour, but to extend the imaginary past the credits is delusional.
Americans generally tend to romanticize both our lawmen and our crimi-
nals, clouding our view of reality. Our fiction is out of sync with our nonfiction, and we get confused. If real police were “Blue Bloods” police, we would not have had a Bernie Kerik as commissioner; there would be no need for civilian complaint review boards, body cameras and millions spent on misconduct settlements; and less turnover in
since the november election, I have been eager to resume my work as the assemblywoman in District 21 and tackle the tough issues affecting families across long Island. Most recently, one of my primary focuses has been addressing the complex challenges of equitable funding for public schools and meeting the needs of our local school districts.
I recently attended an education forum of the Southwest Quadrant, which encompasses districts in southwestern nassau County. The key topics there were the future of foundation aid, funding challenges, infrastructure and school safety, and charter schools. The forum provided invaluable information, including insight from superintendents, administrators, Board of Education trustees and PTa leaders. Their combined expertise offered a comprehensive understanding of the issues our schools face and the support they need from the state.
Since I began representing the 21st district in 2019, I’ve observed that our school districts share many challenges. Space limitations are a significant issue, with many districts forced to host universal pre-kindergarten programs at off-
district sites. The rockville Centre school district recently addressed this issue through an inter-municipal agreement with the village, creating 36 new pre-K seats at the village recreation center. Previously, the district relied on the Friedberg JCC, in Oceanside, to accommodate all families in the district. The Barry and Florence Friedberg JCC, in lynbrook, and the Tiny Tykes Early learning Center and Tutor Time, in East rockaway, also host pre-K for local districts.
In recent years, local districts have also faced rising numbers of English language learners, often from economically disadvantaged or homeless families. The demand for special-education services, mental health support, and health care accommodations has also surged. at the same time, schools are grappling with escalating costs of building maintenance, school and cybersecurity, technology upgrades and transportation.
an idea that warrants further consideration.
While many districts are experiencing declining enrollment, the number of students with substantial needs continues to grow. Foundation aid calculations should not rely solely on population metrics.
s pace limitations, more demand for special ed and rising costs, to name a few.
and snacks to the school population.
Transportation costs, in particular, have become a significant financial burden, especially in districts that transport large numbers of non-public-school students. Some districts also struggle with the financial impact of charter schools, which can divert resources from public schools. One local administrator suggested revising the state’s charter school approval process to limit expansions and regulate tuition rates —
the top brass. “Courtesy cards” would be in museums, not wallets.
Distractions from reality allow speculations like Mr. King’s suggestion that scriptwriters were pressured “to portray cops in a negative light,” as if any producers care at all about what viewers see between the commercials. There are other shows for that. Equally dangerous is his question about the series’ cancellation. Instead of noting the fact that the noble cast accepted a 25 percent pay cut to subsidize season 14, Mr. King conjures the demon of “woke” from nothing.
It’s true that the show’s fans will always have the memories, but we must hope our nostalgia doesn’t distract from the realities of 21st century law and its enforcement.
BrIan KElly Rockville Centre
To the Editor:
l ong Island r ail road commuters should be concerned about insufficient funds being earmarked to bring bridges,
viaducts, tunnels and other basic infrastructure that are in poor or marginal condition up to a state of good repair in the Metropolitan Transportation authority’s proposed $68 billion 2025-2029 Five year Capital Plan. This also applies to Metro-north railroad and new york City Transit.
It’s questionable whether $600 million is sufficient funding for l I rr critical infrastructure projects under the proposed plan. Can this eliminate the growing backlog of critical infrastructure repair? Too many critical capital assets remain in daily service beyond their anticipated useful life. There is still a $33 billion shortfall to fully fund the plan.
Safety, state of good repair, and reliable, on-time performance with a minimum of service disruptions at a fair price should be higher priorities than system expansion projects. The $7.7 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 2, the $5.5 billion Brooklyn-Queens light-rail Interborough Express and the $3.1 billion Metro n orth Bronx East Penn Station a ccess projects all need to be put on hold. Funding for all three would be better spent on critical infrastructure projects benefiting over 4 million nyC Transit subway, 200,000-plus lIrr and 200,000plus Metro north daily commuters. MTa
Schools today are tasked with addressing a broader range of needs than ever before. yet long Island districts consistently contribute more in taxes than they receive in state aid, increasing financial pressures at the local level.
Despite these challenges, I am inspired by the progress our schools are making. To support these efforts, I’ve met with superintendents and school leaders from Hewlett, lynbrook and East rockaway, and plan to meet with others soon.
During tours of lynbrook and East rockaway schools, guided by Superintendents Dr. Paul lynch and Dr. James DeTommaso, I witnessed how these districts are supporting students of all abilities. Their innovative approaches to addressing mental health challenges, accommodating Ell students, and meeting the increasing needs of children with special-education requirements were remarkable. a standout moment was observing the student cafés in lynbrook and East rockaway, where educators and special-ed students collaborated seamlessly to serve drinks
On Dec. 18 I attended a legislative briefing hosted by the nassau-Suffolk School Boards association and the long Island Education Coalition, on the rockefeller Institute report, a comprehensive study on recalculating the foundation aid formula. The session focused on the report’s recommendations, and also offered a platform to discuss key issues impacting public schools on long Island. It was an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas with experts, administrators and fellow legislators.
The briefing was extremely important as we enter 2025 with the prospect of recalculating the foundation aid formula in this year’s state budget. The formula’s base calculations have not been updated since 2016-17. But no change should be made in a vacuum, and must account for the many variables that have been added in the past decade to balance the formula. It’s clear that the growing changes in demographics and the variety of new metrics need to be considered in recalculating the formula. This will be challenging, and will require much more discussion, deliberation and reflection.
I look forward to discussing this more extensively in albany, and hope to form a working group in the hopes of delving further into the topic with my colleagues on long Island and throughout the state’s suburban areas at the next roundtable on Jan. 30.
Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.
Chairman Janno lieber and board members have a fiduciary responsibility to protect the interests of riders and taxpayers.
larry PEnnEr Great Neck
Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.
mountsinai.org/southnassau