No determination in cause of fire on Broadway
Oyster Bay holds its annual Polar Plunge HERALD Massapequa
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
More than 750 participants took part in the 12th annual “Freezin’ for a Reason” Polar Plunge at TOBAY Beach March 29, braving cold waters despite air temperatures that reached into the 70s.
An especially large group of Nassau County police officers led the way into the water, which was a chilly 48 degrees, making the plunge a challenge for everyone involved.
Among the participants was the Massapequa High School swim team, led by Head Coach Kelly Malone and Assistant Coach Bill Eickelberg.
The annual event supports Special Olympics New York, and Rebecca Hoffman, Director of Development for the charity, said the event raised $130,000. That will help provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults
Court tosses LI schools’ mascot case—for now
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
On March 27, U.S. District Court Judge Margo K. Brodie dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Massapequa School District and three other Long Island school districts challenging the State Board of Regents’ ban on Native American imagery, such as the Massapequa “Chiefs” logo and mascot.
While 13 local districts were affected by the state ban, only Massapequa, Wyandanch, Connetquot, and Wantagh challenged the ban in court.
The judge ruled that the plaintiffs did not present enough evidence to support
their claim that the actions of school officials were a matter of public concern and thus protected by the First Amendment. She gave the plaintiffs 30 days to amend their complaint before the dismissal becomes final.
The Chiefs name and logo have been part of the Massapequa schools’ culture for many years. In response to the court’s decision, the Massapequa Board of Education issued a statement to the community:
“We are disappointed to share that a federal judge has dismissed our lawsuit challenging New York State’s regulation banning Native American mas-
cots. While this decision is not the outcome we had hoped for, it does not change our unwavering commitment to protecting and preserving the identity and traditions of our community.
“Throughout this process, our priority has been to stand up for local control and the ability of communities to honor their heritage in a respectful and meaningful way. We firmly believe that decisions about our schools should reflect the voices of the people who live here, not be dictated by the state.
“Despite this setback, we remain steadfast in our advocacy and will continue to explore all available options. We will be consulting with legal counsel in
the coming days to determine our next steps.
“Thank you for your continued support as we work to protect the values and traditions that make Massapequa special.”
The “Chiefs logo is also used by the Village of Massapequa Park, the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce, and the Massapequa Fire Depart-
ment. Notably, the Big Chief Lewis building is a prominent landmark for visitors entering Massapequa from the east on Sunrise Highway.
Local officials strongly supported the district’s position following the court’s ruling. Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino expressed disappointment, stating, “Our community is proud of its Native American history
Mike Polansky/Herald photos
Participants brave the cold water to support Special Olympics.
Steven Kent appointed LIA’s chief economist
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Steven Kent, an economist and financial expert with over 25 years of experience with Goldman Sachs, was recently named chief economist of the Long Island Association Research Institute.
The LIA is a nonprofit business organization advocating for the region’s economic vitality and overall business community. In his role, Kent will provide real-time economic insights that will allow business across Long Island to forecast for operational success and growth.
“Our mission will be enhanced with the addition of Dr. Steven Kent to the LIA team as the new Chief Economist of the LIA Research Institute,” Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, stated in a press release. “The LIA will be well-served by his extensive private-sector experience and the valuable data and analyses he will provide to our members at this pivotal inflection point for the future of Long Island, and indeed the entire country, as we navigate uncertain economic conditions and the existential crisis of affordability.”
Kent is a lifelong Long Island resident, having grown up in Islip before
attending Stony Brook University, where he became fascinated with economics and received a B.A. in the subject.
“I walked into SUNY Stony Brook and took a class with one of the best professors on campus, intro to economics, and it basically changed my life,” said Kent. “I like the analytic part, the mathematical part, and the social science part.”
Kent joined Goldman Sachs as a junior analyst after graduating, before leaving for another firm and pursuing an MBA at NYU’s Stern School of Business. Then he returned to Goldman Sachs, where he researched and oversaw investments in the global hospitality and leisure sector before he retired as managing director in 2016. Kent was named “best stock picker” eight times by the Wall Street Journal.
“I learned you had to know the companies, you had to understand the stocks, but I started to look at what was going on in the broader economy,” he said.
After retiring, Kent wanted to share what he learned in the industry. “I always wanted to help the next generation of business leaders,” he said. “My whole career, both academic and business, I have had lots and lots of mentors
who guided me, focused me, and helped me out along the way. I wanted to do the same.”
Kent, a Baldwin resident, guest lectured at several universities before becoming a professor of economics and finance at Molloy University. He also received a Ph.D. in hospitality management.
Being named LIA’s chief economist was “a little bit of a surprise,” he said.
Kent will continue teaching at Molloy while serving the LIA. As chief economist, he will share data-informed insights and explanations of the Island’s economy, helping business owners make informed decisions about their businesses.
Kent will be releasing a newsletter broadly reporting on the U.S., New York, and Long Island economies. He will focus on specific topics and develop special projects to uplift the local economy.
According to Kent, Long Island’s current economy is vibrant. “Our unemployment rate is lower than the rest of the country. Our economic activity continues to expand,” he said. “One of the advantages Long Island has is where we’re located, so we have access to transportation and access to great universities, and that facilitates a lot of
growth.”
He said he wants to “help to allow the Long Island economy to continue its robust trajectory.”
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Courtesy Steven Kent Steven Kent grew up in Islip, earned an economics degree at Stony Brook, and then joined Goldman Sachs.
Town leaders band to oppose RAPID Act
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jen DeSena, along with town and fire officials from across Nassau County, to denounce the latest attempt by Albany to override local zoning laws through the proposal known as the RAPID Act.
Through the legislation, the state would have the power to fast-track large-scale energy projects, such as high voltage power lines and electric battery storage facilities throughout Long Island, bypassing local regulations.
“This proposal could strip away our ability to decide what’s best for our communities, ultimately silencing local residents,” said Saladino.
“Under the RAPID Act, massive energy projects would be forced on local neighborhoods and expansive lithium storage facilities or high-voltage power lines could even be placed near homes and schools. The proposal removes local control – giving Albany the final say, not the residents who live here.”
Local officials further argued that the RAPID Act includes automatic approvals that could greenlight projects without community input. It also calls for eminent domain expansion, where private property could be taken for power lines. All approvals would be under the jurisdiction of New York State, bypassing local laws and zoning regulations.
The comments brought quick response from the New York State Public Service Commission, which supports the changes.
“The supervisors’ position is unfounded,” said James Denn, a spokesman for the Public Service Commission. “Local governments will be able to continue to provide input on project compliance, including compliance with zoning laws. The RAPID Act does not remove public participation/ consultation and it maintains the requirement that local zoning codes are honored to the extent practicable.”
In fact, Denn said, the proposal builds in more provisions for public involvement and requires developers to do local engagement on transmission projects, which current law only encourages.The PSC is currently seeking comments on the proposed RAPID Act regulations. Comments can be submitted here: shorturl.at/ ki9Na
CRIME WATCH
The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department and other police, fire and emergency services:
OFFICERS HURT IN MVA ACCIDENT
Nassau County police reported the details of an auto accident that occurred on Sun, March 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Massapequa. According to police, Community Oriented Police Enforcement (COPE) officers stopped a 2005 Audi and exited their unmarked patrol vehicle to conduct a Vehicle and Traffic Law stop. The stop occurred on the eastbound side of Sunrise Highway near East Chestnut Street. While conducting the investigation, a male, 76, in another vehicle, a 2021 Honda, struck the rear of the parked police unit. This caused the police vehicle to strike both officers before colliding with the parked 2005 Audi. Both officers sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital
for evaluation and treatment. The operator of the Honda was also transported to a local area hospital PETIT LARCENY
Massapequa: An unidentified person walked into the Dollar Tree store at 932 Carmans Road March 29 and left the story carrying 12 toothbrushes without paying for the items. The incident was reported at 7:15 p.m.
South Farmingdale: Three boxes of diapers were stolen from Walgreens at 918 Main St., on March 31. The theft was reported at 10:50 a.m.
ARRESTS
Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Ava Martinez, 35, of New Rochelle; Eldyn M. Salvador Paguaga, 33, of North Massapequa.
Petit Larceny: Jordan Legoute, 20, of Hollis; Dayanna Orellana, 18, of Freeport; Marcos Tleseca, 50, of South Richmond; Diane Jacques, 33 of Springfield Gardens; Zayquan K. Curtis, 29, of Westbury.
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Daryl Williams, 70, of 1588 Cove St., Massapequa.
Town of Oyster Bay is offering paid summer internship program
Attention college students: the Town of Oyster Bay is offering an opportunity for youto gain meaningful work experience through an internship program being offered by the town for the 2025 summer season.
The competitive program compensates
students at a rate of $18 per hour for work completed with various town departments. The program will operate from Thursday, May 29 to Wednesday, August 6. Those interested should call (516) 6246425. For more information, visit oysterbaytown.com/internship.
Courtesy Town of Oyster Bay
Supervisors Joseph Saladino, Don Clavin and Jen DeSena, center, gather with local officials to denounce New York State’s recent proposal to override local zoning and bypass municipal laws for large-scale energy projects in local neighborhoods.
Taking the plunge at TOBAY Beach 2025
CONTINUED FROM COVER
with intellectual disabilities.
The Nassau County Police Department’s 3rd Precinct led the fundraising effort, bringing in over $23,000. The CSEA followed closely, raising $22,500.
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto served as the event’s master of ceremonies and also participated in the plunge.
Other elected officials, who stayed dry, included Oyster Bay Town Councilmen Tom Hand and Andy Monteleone, Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, and New York State Senator Steve Rhoads. Councilman Monteleone made it clear he had promised his constituents—and his wife—to keep his shirt on.
The Massapequa High School swim team.
Councilmen Tom Hand and Andy Monteleone attended as onlookers.
Rebecca Hoffman, Director of Development for Special Olympics New York, expresses enthusiasm for the turnout.
Councilman Lou Imbroto welcomes the crowd to the annual fundraising event.
Police officers from Nassau County’s 3rd Precinct lead the parade into the water.
JULIANA CERASI
Wantagh Senior Lacrosse
IT HAS BEEN A HISTORIC run for Cerasi since last spring when she and classmate Riley Forthofer and the Warriors defeated Manhasset for the Nassau Class C girls’ lacrosse title. The pair went on to win county championships in soccer and basketball, making for a rare backto-back-to back. Cerasi earned All-County and Second Team All-Long Island in lacrosse in 2024 when she totaled 34 goals with 11 assists. She’s headed to James Madison.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, April 10
Baseball: Baldwin at Kennedy
Baseball: Long Beach at Mepham
Baseball: Hewlett at Calhoun 5 p.m.
Softball: West Hempstead at Hewlett
Boys Lacrosse: V.S. District at Freeport
Boys Lacrosse: Clarke at Baldwin
Girls Lacrosse: North Shore at Garden City
Friday, April 11
Baseball: Oceanside at Massapequa
5 p.m.
Baseball: V.S. North at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Baseball: Clarke at V.S. South 5 p.m.
Baseball: West Hempstead at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Softball: Lawrence at V.S. Central 5 p.m.
Softball: Long Beach at Freeport 5 p.m.
Softball: East Rockaway at Elmont 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Plainedge at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Carey 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at South Side 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Clarke at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Wantagh at South Side 7 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Manhasset at Long Beach 7 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
HERALD SPORTS
Future appears bright for Plainedge
By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com
With four key sophomores as headliners and a new marquee coach, the Plainedge softball team looks to have a sunny future.
Maybe it won’t be all grand in 2025 as Plainedge was off to a tough start with three straight defeats but first-year coach Danielle Fazzolare is just getting starting with a revamp.
The Red Devils picked up win No. 1 for Fazzolare last Friday, 8-2 over Calhoun, as Kayla Gately homered and pitcher Savannah Speicher struck out 10.
Fazzolare had spent the past eight seasons as coach at St. Joseph’s College in Brooklyn. She is a former Plainedge softball star, graduating in 2006 and still lives in North Massapequa.
“The sophomores are our core group and will get stronger,’’ she said. “We’re changing the culture, so we’re getting some things ironed out with a new coaching staff, learning to work with each other.’’
Fazzolare’s assistant is Leo Soto. “They needed more positivity in their play and looking for someone to teach them the game while still respecting the game,’’ she said.
Fazzolare is on a mission to bring high school softball back to the forefront after a recent dip in participation – not just Plainedge but in the county.
Last season, the Red Devils finished with a 10-4 record in Conference 4, losing in the second round to Clarke. They moved to more rugged Conference 3.
The stellar sophomore nucleus is led by Speicher and middle infielder Imogen Eaton. Speicher was an All-County performer as a freshman after throwing 100 strike outs in 97 innings in posting a 10-4 record and 3.24 earned run average. She can also swing the bat, hitting .360 with a .400 on-base percentage. Speicher didn’t make an error in the field.
The screwball is Speicher’s money pitch. “She has a lot of confidence on the mound and is able to deal with high-pressure situations and move the ball around the plate with a different array of pitch-
es,’’ Fazzolare said.
Also a sophomore, Plainedge’s speediest star is Eaton, an All-County Honorable Mention who plays second base and shortstop and adds power to the lineup. Eaton hit .404 last season with a slugging percentage of .684 as she slugged four home runs. Her fielding percentage was a solid .882.
“She’s a power hitter with a ton of speed, super quick in the field and around the bases,’’ Fazzolare said. “She’s tiny but mighty.’’
The pitcher Speicher is blessed to have a premier catcher in Gately, who is in the same grade. They will be batterymates for a while.
Gately won the Golden Glove and was
All-Conference after batting .351 with an on-base-percentage of .489. Gately’s fielding percentage was nearly perfect at .984.
“She’s a strong catcher, like wall back there,’’ Fazzolare said. “Nothing gets past her. She’s really good at blocking and framing pitches and is a gap-to-gap hitter for extra bases.’’
Add another sophomore who has AllConference potential in third baseman Meghan Moore. She also is a spot starter/reliever. She hit .324 with an .867 fielding percentage.
There are just four senior starters –one of them shortstop Kimberly Dorane who will play at Fredonia. “She has a solid, quick release with the ball and goes hard for every ball,’’ Fazzolare said.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Sophomore pitcher Savannah Speicher struck out 10 Calhoun batters last Friday as Plainedge earned its first win of 2025, winning 8-2.
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Give blood; earn a chance to see Beyoncé in concert
As spring approaches, the New York Blood Center, NYBC, is calling on New Yorkers, particularly young people and first-time donors, to give blood during a time of year when donations typically decline. With families traveling for spring break, enjoying warmer weather, and focusing on end-of-school-year activities, the seasonal drop in blood donations poses a challenge for hospitals and patients who depend on a steady supply of volunteer blood donors.
To encourage donations during this critical period, NYBC is offering an exciting incentive for music fans. Through April 30, those who donate blood at any NYBC donor center will be entered for a chance to win two tickets to see Beyoncé on her Cowboy Carter Tour at MetLife Stadium on May 29, at 7 p.m.
All blood types are needed, particularly Type O negative and B negative donations. Blood donations from younger generations are becoming especially im-
portant, as the share of donors under 30 has dropped by more than 30% in recent years, threatening the long-term stability of the nation’s blood supply.
“The spring months are busy for New Yorkers, but they’re also the perfect time to give back,” said Andrea Cefarelli, senior vice president at NYBC. “We’re excited to offer the chance to see Beyoncé live while helping ensure that local hospitals have the blood they need. As we head into summer, a time when donations typically dip, we hope this will inspire more people to make blood donation a lifelong habit.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors may donate up to twice a month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently lifted several eligibility restrictions, making it easier for more people to donate. For current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800688-0900.
To make an appointment, call 800-9332566 or go to donate.nybc.org.
The blind, deaf Poodle who found care and kindness—and a new home
This mystery started with a “courtesy post” I put on Last Hope Inc Facebook about a matted, blind-deaf Poodle. “Courtesy posts” are placed by rescue groups looking for adopters or help with dogs or cats that do not belong to the organization that is advertising on social media.
Before reading the story, look at the before and after photos: You are looking at two pictures of the same Miniature Poodle examined at a Queens veterinary office: then shaved and groomed by the staff.
Pets, Pets, Pets...
JOANNE ANDERSON
Last Hope’s hotline call came from an employee at this animal hospital who explained a Good Samaritan found this tangled-beyond-recognition, senior dog, dragging an old pink leash attached to a new, red harness over her matted body on 153rd Street in Flushing.
The finder called the animal hospital to get the dog scanned for a microchip. She showed proof of her dogs so the hospital would believe her story about finding the Poodle as a stray. When she brought the dog into a local hospital, the staff was aghast at the dog’s condition.
No microchip! The vet and staff started working on the dog at once. They sedated her mildly to shave mats down to her skin. This process took two hours with breaks for the dog, then a bath. When a dog is this neglected, the coat feels like wood.
The Poodle was terribly thin and shaking so a staff member put the dress on her. The vet examined her and did extensive bloodwork. This dog is a senior. Her teeth are in terrible shape, but her ears were clean, and her skin in good condition. Her kidney values are slightly low which can be a function of her age and starved state. And the POODLE is BLIND and DEAF. How did she survive on the street, even for a brief time?
Despite her ordeal, the matted munchkin was a sweetheart. As soon as someone touched her, she stopped shaking and snuggled into the person’s hand. After her therapeutic make-over, the Poodle stayed temporarily with the staff member’s neighbor who had dogs and cats. She fit in fine but was circling when she walked.
The dog dilemma: NYC shelters are different from LI municipal shelters. A lost dog can be found in one borough and be held on a stray hold in a different borough. Dogs are kept for a short time- especially old, disabled dogs. The vet staff worried this frail pup would be terrified in a shelter cage and would be considered unadoptable.
In cases like this, someone can circumvent the shelter stay by notifying NYC Animal Care & Control, calling the NYPD precinct where the dog was found, and waiting for three days for an owner to surface before placing the dog.
My courtesy post was asking for someone to adopt the disabled Poodle from her advocate at the animal hospital. Though unlikely an owner would claim her during her stray hold, the fear lurked. The poor waif could go back to a neglectful situation. Even if she had been missing a long time and slowly became a canine mop, someone had recently put a new harness over her mats before she was found last week on the street in Flushing.
Over 30 years watching people turn
“strays” into LI town shelters has made me skeptical of their stories. Too many times, the finder turned out to be the owner or someone close to the owner. My gut feeling is this dog was neglected over time inside a house, not while she was outside briefly, fending for herself.
To my surprise: The morning after the “courtesy post”, my friend Sue, Mom of our late Team Timmy ambassadogs, partner in our Last Hope humane ed program, told me she was going to inquire about adopting the deaf and blind Poodle.
She adopted two tiny senior dogs over the past year, and has Shih-tzu Pammy Sue, retired from Team Timmy visits. “I have room for one more old lady dog as long as she gets along with my crew,” Sue said. As I type this column, the sweet Poodle,
named Helen, for now, (after Helen Keller), arrived Sunday at Chez Sue. Introductions were seamless, and she began exploring her home and yard. She kept circling inside and outside.
Joanne (the jinx) thought there may be a neurological issue too, until I watched the video of Helen’s large circles with her nose down in the yard, and read online:
“Owners of blind and blind-deaf dogs… usually report that after newly blind dogs have used circling to discover and map their “space” indoors and outdoors, the dogs usually decrease circling and might cease it altogether when they are in places they know already.”
Helen is quite bright like her namesake. Give her a little time, and she will figure out the doggie door.
The blind-deaf Poodle found on a street in Flushing recently.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Connection NY Blood Center makes urgent call for donors.
Judge dismisses LI challenge to state ban on Native imagery
and heritage, and it’s a shame that the utilization of the Chiefs is seen as anything but a display of that pride.” Town Councilwoman Laura Maier commended the school board for supporting the community, which has always viewed the mascot as a symbol of respect. Councilman Steve Labriola thanked the school district for defending the First Amendment rights and local heritage, while Councilman Thomas Hand emphasized that the court decision would not diminish their community pride.
Massapequa Park Mayor Daniel Pearl, a product of the Massapequa school system, reiterated that the Chiefs logo is a symbol of respect. “It’s part of our history, and something to be proud of,” he said. “I commend the school board for fighting for what the majority of the community wants.”
Village Trustee Christine Wiss shared the mayor’s disappointment, calling the mascot a long-standing source of pride for the district. She added, “I know the district will continue to explore all available options with their legal counsel.”
Assemblyman Mike Durso expressed similar sentiments but acknowledged that the court’s decision was not entirely unexpected. He cautioned that the Massapequa School Board must weigh the costs of continuing the lawsuit against the potential costs of removing the Chiefs logo from facilities and uniforms. “They have to do what’s best for the community,” Durso said.
The Massapequa School Board will be deliberating its next steps. According to Ryan Ruf, the district’s assistant superintendent for business operations, removing all traces of the Chief name and logo would cost at least $340,000, potentially reaching up to $960,000.
Many organizations in Massapequa use a Native American image, such as the Massapequa Hall of Fame.
Massapequa School District logo, focus of the lawsuit
Large group of volunteers join effort to protect TOBAY beach
Drawing a record crowd of volunteers, the Town of Oyster Bay hosted its Dune Stabilization Day event at TOBAY Beach recently, planting hundreds of stalks of dune grass to help protect the shoreline. This hands-on environmental initiative helps stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass, which serves as a natural shield against storm surges and erosion.
Dune Day is a fun and rewarding experience for families, school groups,
and environmentally conscious residents. Volunteers worked and learned firsthand how simple actions can have a lasting impact on coastal preservation.
“Strong dunes mean a stronger coastline, protecting TOBAY Beach for generations to come,” said Supervisor Joseph Saldino.
For information on future environmental volunteer efforts, visit oysterbaytown.com/volunteer.
Current
Courtesy Town of Oyster Bay
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto works planting dune grass with young volunteers.
HERALD NEIGHBORS
Massapequa high school students give back .... to second graders
Whether they are looking to become a teacher or just revisiting their elementary roots, about 75 Massapequa High School students are having a meaningful experience as instructors in the Junior Achievement High School Heroes program.
Throughout March and April, the sophomores, juniors and seniors are paired with second grade classes at the six elementary schools. They teach full-day lessons on careers, community and financial literacy. This is the 18th year the program has taken place in the district and continues because of its ongoing success.
School-to-Career Coordinator Denise DeLury said that process begins with announcements at the high school, followed by a meeting for interested students. Once they sign up and form their teaching teams, assignments are given out. During training sessions, the high school students learn the different units and review classroom management techniques. Before entering the second grade classrooms, each group is encouraged to meet on their own to review the lessons and plan the activities.
Many of the participants go back to their former elementary schools, while others prioritize working closely with friends. DeLury explained that a lot of students who sign up aspire to be teachers or work in other child-centered careers.
“This gives them an opportunity before they go to college to get into a classroom and see if it’s something they want to pursue,” she said. “They get a hands-on experience before they make the decision.”
Additionally, DeLury said, the high school students get to see both aspects of teaching – leading a classroom and behind-the-scenes preparation.
High School Heroes is done in second grade because the units aligns closely with the social studies curriculum. Among the skills it reinforces are collaboration, decision-making and problemsolving. The second graders learn about different jobs within a typical community, the differences between goods and services, and how money flows.
Junior Briana Maresca was assigned to the Birch Lane Elementary School classroom of her former second grade teacher, Michele Montefusco. She had the joy of teaching her younger sister, Mackenzie. Briana, who is thinking about becoming a teacher or a pediatric nurse, valued the experience that High School Heroes provided.
“I like working with the kids,” she said, adding that they listened well and were very respectful.
Photos Courtesy Massapequa School District
Students from Massapequa High School visited Lockhart Elementary School on March 18 to teach the High School Heroes program in second grade classes.
Sophomore Ella DeLury helped out as Birch Lane second graders, from left, Joey Antonucci, Julia Javett and Anthony Durso, opened up a pizza shop.
Cause of fire at Massapequa bridal store and coffee shop undetermined
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The cause of a fire that destroyed 200 dresses at a bridal shop on Broadway in Massapequa and damaged a coffee shop next door, will apparently never be determined according to Nassau County Fire Marshal Capt. Kevin Lang whose office investigated the blaze.
“There are just too many factors for what happened there,” Lang said. “The people that need to know about the fire—the insurance companies—they will get the information they need, but as to what started the fire, we may never know.”
Lang added that a team of investigators reviewed the site but could not pinpoint a cause for the blaze.
The fire started around 3 p.m. Sunday, March 30, in the basement of The Coffee Grind and spread to Bridal Reflections, damaging at least 200 bridal dresses stored in the basement.
Firefighters from Massapequa arrived and found the fire contained to the basemens of the two businesses. They had to break into neighboring businesses, including Bridal Reflections, to check for fire extension, but found only smoke on the first floors and in the basement. All customers and employees safely evacuated the buildings.
an abundance of caution, we put them in new garment bags so the customers’ dresses are safe,” he said.
while the situation is fully assessed. We appreciate your understanding and continued support and look forward to welcoming you back.”
Massapequa firefighters were assisted by the Seaford, Wantagh, and Amityville fire departments.
Massapequa Fire Chief Jeffrey Friedland thanked the neighboring departments for their support.
“No one was hurt and the fire was confined to the basement,” said Friedland.
Photo Courtesy John Scalese
Propel NY aims to update L.I. connectivity
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Propel NY Energy project is a $3.26 billion initiative aimed at modernizing Long Island’s aging electric transmission system.
Why the project Is needed
New York’s electric transmission infrastructure is largely outdated — roughly 80 percent of it was built before 1980, at a time when energy needs were vastly different. With electric vehicles, heat pumps, data centers, and advanced digital technologies there will be a projected 50 to 90 percent increase in electricity demand over the next 20 years. Long Island’s grid, currently connected to the statewide network through only two points, is vulnerable to congestion and outages.
The existing grid faces significant congestion, akin to a crowded highway, which leads to inefficiencies and increased costs. Propel NY Energy is designed to add new transmission pathways that facilitate bidirectional power flow, enhancing both the reliability and resilience of the grid. This project prepares the region for a more robust and future-ready energy infrastructure.
Project scope and technical details
At the heart of the project is the construction of 90 miles of new underground transmission lines, including 66 miles in Nassau County. Additional segments will extend into Suffolk County, the Bronx and Westchester. Unlike surface lines, these cables will be installed underground using conventional trenching methods — typically 5 to 7 feet deep. In logistically challenging areas, advanced trenchless technologies such as horizontal directional drilling will be used.
Propel NY Energy will add three new interconnec-
the project’s new lines will follow existing road corridors and disturbed areas. For segments crossing environmentally sensitive zones, such as the Long Island Sound, the team is applying sediment transport modeling and best management practices. When unavoidable impacts occur — particularly in wetlands — compensatory measures will be implemented by creating two to three acres of new wetlands for every acre affected.
The project is undergoing a review under New York’s Article Seven permitting process. This comprehensive environmental and socio-economic evaluation involves multiple state agencies. Anticipated approval is around July 2026.
Regular open houses and public meetings are planned to keep local communities informed and dispel misconceptions. The project prioritizes local union labor and contractors, ensuring that Nassau County and surrounding areas benefit from job opportunities. Any temporary disruptions will be addressed through detailed restoration plans.
tion points. This enhancement will enable power to flow in multiple directions, relieving congestion and providing critical redundancy.
Propel NY Energy is exclusively focused on upgrading electric transmission infrastructure. It is not associated with battery storage systems or offshore wind projects, though the upgraded grid will support future renewable energy integration. Selected through a competitive solicitation process by the New York Independent System Operator from among 19 proposals by four developers, the project was chosen for its costeffectiveness and technical merits.
Environmental and community considerations
To reduce new environmental disruptions, most of
Cost, funding and timeline
The total investment for Propel NY Energy is capped at $3.26 billion, and is funded by ratepayers across the state. For the average residential customer, the project is expected to add roughly 6 cents per day to utility bills. Projected costs are expected to be offset by long-term savings, with enhanced grid efficiency estimated to save nearly $3.3 billion in congestionrelated costs over time.
Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026 and will continue for up to four years, with project completion anticipated by mid-2030. During construction, crews are expected to progress between 50 and 150 feet per day per.
For more on Propel, go to PropelNyEnergy.com.
STEPPING OUT
Where the audience always comes first
Long Island Children’s Museum Theater Director
Jim Packard says goodbye to his role of a lifetime
By Danielle Schwab
There are 140 seats at the theater at Long Island Children’s Museum and Jim Packard has sat in almost every single one.
“There’s not a bad seat in the theater. Wherever you sit, you can see the whole stage, and you’re no more than five, six rows away from the stage, which is pretty special,” he says.
Packard has been instrumental in the growth of the museum’s theatrical programming from inception, since the theater’s construction in 2001. It all begin with a committee he didn’t know he was on, when he was asked to consult on the museum’s theater then in development.
Prior to joining the museum, Packard was involved with theater and event management in Manhattan, and has taught stage technology and design.
“I was asked by a friend on the LICM theater committee to look at the plans the architect had drawn up. Then that spring, they had listed me as ‘not present’ at a theater committee meeting,” Packard recalls.
“I said: ‘I didn’t know I was on this committee, but I’m happy to serve on it and to help out the museum in whatever way I can.’ They said: ‘That’s all right. The committee has dissolved at this point.’
“I asked: ‘Who’s watching out for the theater?’ And that’s when I got hired.”
From his first position — as Theater Coordinator to his final role as Director of Theater Programs — Packard has made his mark over these past 24 years.
His philosophy, in keeping with the museum’s mission, is to put the audience first.
“It always boils down to making sure that the audience is the one that you’re paying attention to, because there’s no point in doing theater without an audience,” he explains. The productions are carefully chosen with a strong focus on audience interaction, with many tying into exhibits and related events.
“Our dressing room door has a big sheet of brown paper on it, and every time the actors hear something fun or interesting coming from the audience, they will write it on that board, just to remind them to pay attention to what the audience is saying,” he adds.
There is sure to be plenty of audience response to the upcoming production of “Elephant and Piggie’s We are in a Play!” The beloved show, opening April 14, which involves the audience as a character in the story, is always popular with visitors. Adapted from Mo Willems’ best-selling children’s series, the hilarious duo of Elephant and Piggie gets tangled in all sorts of antics, learning the meaning of friendship along the way.
“Elephant and Piggie realize there’s an audience watching them, and then they talk and interact with the audience, invite them to sing along and be a part of the show,” Packard says.
With Packard’s retirement this month, the production
• Performances April 14-19, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800 for tickets
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
acts as a passing of the baton to new hands. Taking on the assignment are not one but two folks: Lisa Rudin as artistic director and Austin Costello as technical director.
It’s a full circle moment for both Rudin and Costello, who appeared as Elephant and Piggie in previous stagings of the production.
Costello, a distinguished puppeteer in his own right, has worked with the museum’s theater since 2015.
His love of puppetry started back as a kid in ‘90s, when he visited the museum and saw a puppet on display. His career led him to roles in children’s theater, including Sesame Street.
“The little lessons that we find along the way in our shows are the major takeaways that we get to share with families and especially with kids who might be having problems. It’s such an important thing to me to bring children up in a good way, and to help them understand the world around them,” Costello says.
“It’s wonderful to be able to carry on the legacy of Jim, who’s worked so hard for so many people, and who has taken a lot of time to take me under his wing and train me,” he adds.
Rudin also has a personal history with the museum.
“The first time I came to the theater here was when I brought my children in 2019. I was like, ‘what a beautiful theater this is.’ This is just perfect,” she says.
She has worn many theatrical hats throughout her career, including as an actor on Sesame Street Live and an education director for a children’s theater school.
Rudin and Costello will surely continue the theater’s aim to connect with children through imaginative and creative storytelling,
”Children learn empathy from watching characters on stage. They understand content and what happens in the story more from seeing it live,” Rudin says.
While Packard may be waving goodbye as director, his legacy remains rooted to the museum’s very foundation.
Joan Osborne sings Dylan
The seven-time Grammy nominee brings her extraordinary voice and artistic depth to the timeless music of Bob Dylan.The recent biopic “A Complete Unknown” brings Dylan to the forefront once again. Meanwhile Osborne has spent over 25 years captivating audiences with her fearless exploration of genres ranging from rock and blues to soul, gospel and country. Her journey with Dylan’s catalog began in 2016 with a series of “Dylanology” concerts. Her critically-acclaimed 2018 album, “Songs of Bob Dylan,” and her live performances showcase her ability to reimagine Dylan’s iconic works, highlighting the emotional resonance and poetic brilliance of his music. Osborne turns back the clock with her soulful reinterpretations that exude passion, emotion and energy. .
Friday, April 11, 8 p.m. $59, $55, $48, also special VIP package. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Rick Wakeman
“When I was 19-years-old, walking
“When I was 19-years-old, walking across my college theater’s auditorium, I thought I could do this every day for the rest of my life — and I got that opportunity,” he shares.
“It’s been one of the more wonderful
“It’s been one of the more wonderful experiences in life, in terms of just getting to do so much that makes so many people happy.”
Photos courtesy LICM
Top photo: Outgoing Director Jim Packard, center, and cast and crew of “Interstellar Cinderella” gather at the final performance.
Bottom photo: Elephant (Finn MacDevitt) and Piggie (Anneka Shepherd ) return to the museum’s stage in a production helmed by new Artistic Director Lisa Rudin.
Experience the magic of progressive rock legend Rick Wakeman when he brings his “Final Solo Tour” to Long Island. Renowned for his keyboard wizardry and captivating stage presence, Wakeman invites you on a journey through iconic Yes classics, unforgettable solo compositions and personal favorites. With a career spanning over five decades and album sales exceeding 50 million, Rick’s extraordinary contributions to music have earned him accolades, including a CBE from Queen Elizabeth II. This tour is a heartfelt farewell to his legendary one-man shows in the U.S., but his music will continue to inspire fans worldwide. Rick’s career is a testament to his versatility and enduring artistry. His live performances seamlessly blend masterful musicianship with humor and storytelling, creating an intimate and unforgettable experience.
Wednesday, April 16, 8 p.m. $75, $65, $55, $45, $35, $29.50. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
THE Your Neighborhood
‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’ Spring blooms with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. Before you know back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Saturday, April 19, 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along.
The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/ backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione, have been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast coast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Open Mic and Jam Session
Farmingdale Village Cultural Arts Committee, hosted by Chuck and Vinny, invites all to anopen mic and jam session, Tuesday, April 15, 7 p.m., inside Village Hall. Acts of all ages are welcome to participate. To register, email openmicfarmingdale@gmail. com or sign up at 7 p.m. on site. Limited seating. 361 Main St., Farmingdale.
LIMEHOF Music Documentary Film Festival submissions
The inaugural Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Music Documentary Film Festival is set to launch Aug. 8-10. LIMEHOF is currently open to submissions up until Thursday, May 1. To learn more about entering, visit shorturl. at/VqmkM or call (631) 689-5888.
Registration open for Town of Oyster Bay’s spring athletics
Town of Oyster Bay residents are invited to participate in the town’s spring athletic programs for basketball, badminton and volleyball, beginning the first weekend in April. The program is held Town of Oyster Bay Hicksville Athletic Center. To register, visit oysterbaytown.com/sports. For more information, call (516) 7977945. 167 S. Broadway, Hicksville.
Teen Comedy Show
After weeks of practice, the fourth graduating class of the Laugh Out Loud Academy is ready to share their jokes, Saturday, April 12 , 2-3 p.m., at Massapequa Public Library. Enjoy an afternoon of comedy from Avery, Giavanna, Mila, Vanessa, and the Laugh Out Loud Trio. Register at massapequa. librarycalendar.com/event/ teen-comedy-show-23314. For more information, call (516) 799-0770. 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park.
Community Service Starry Night Sticker Poster
Plainedge Public Library offers teens a half hour of community service credit for contributing to a mosaic sticker poster, through May 25 . The poster when completed will hang in the YA department. Next time you are at the library, stop by the YA desk to grab some square stickers to add to the large, coded grid.
The result will depict Vincent Van Gogh’s famous painting.1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 7354133.
Town of Oyster Bay Pickleball Tournament
Calling all pickleball enthusiasts!
The Town of Oyster Bay brings the heat this spring with its inaugural Pickleball Tournament, a high-energy, two-day event set for Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply enjoy a little friendly competition, this tournament is the perfect chance to showcase your skills and compete for glory.
The tournament will feature bracketed doubles matches for players 18 and older, promising plenty of fast-paced action and exciting rallies. To register, visit oysterbaytown. com/sports, where you can also stay tuned for more details on game locations and schedules. For more information, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Parks Department Recreation Office at (516) 797-7945.
Farmingdale Library
Cinema
Farmingdale Public Library shows “Wicked,” the untold story of the witches of Oz, Tuesday, April 15, 10 a.m.-noon and 1:30 -4 p.m. No registration required. 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale.For more information, call (516) 2499090.
Annual Easter Egg Hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny
Farmingdale Village hosts their annual Easter
Egg Hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny, Saturday, April 12. It begins at 11 a.m., followed by photos with the Easter Bunny at the Gazebo, on the Village Green. The egg hunt is for children up to 11 years old. This is a free community event, organized by the Farmingdale Village Cultural Arts Committee. For more, visit shorturl.at/c2hHh or call (516) 286-7800. 361 Main St.
Spring Fling
Farmingdale Public Library’s annual Spring Fling returns, Tuesday, April 16, 10:30 a.m.noon. Families can enjoy springthemed games, crafts, activities and a petting zoo. For more information, call (516) 249-9090. 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale.
Having an event?
Golden Tones Chorus
The Town of Oyster Bay is seeking members for its Golden Tones Entertainment Group. The senior chorus is a social group open to town residents over the age of 60 who have an interest in singing, dancing or entertaining. Meetings are held every Friday at the North Massapequa Community Center. There are two planned shows, a spring show and a holiday show. Senior citizens interested in joining the Golden Tones should call (516) 797-7916 for more information.214 North Albany Ave., N. Massapequa.
Art Explorations
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, April 19, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and make art together. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit nassaumuseum.org to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/ Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Art in the Park
Local artists and artisans are invited to participate in a day of creativity and community at Art in the Park, set to take place, Saturday, May 17, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park and Beach in Oyster Bay. Application deadline is Friday, May 9. Artists and artisans must be 18 years or older and can only display and sell original, handcrafted pieces. Participants are responsible for supplying their own 10x10 canopy and any additional equipment needed for their space. Full details, including associated costs, are outlined in the application available online. To apply, visit oysterbaytown.com/capa or call the Cultural and Performing Arts Division at (516) 797-7932.
Lindenhurst’s Pat Benatar rocks and writes
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Singing and writing for over four decades, Pat Benatar has been inspiring her fans with hits including “We Belong “and “Love Is a Battlefield,” and new songs as well, performing alongside her husband and partner, Neil Giraldo. A multi-platinum artist who has had 15 U.S. Billboard Top 40 singles and a fourtime Grammy Award winner, Benatar is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, and even received the Key to Babylon from then Town Supervisor Steve Bellone. Benatar spoke with the Herald about what Lindenhurst still means to her, what continues to inspire her, and some exciting news.
Herald: What are your thoughts on having been inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame?
Benatar: It’s great. I’m still very attached to Lindenhurst. I’m still close friends with all of the girls I went to elementary school, junior high and high school with. We still see each other all the time. Every time we go back, I always try to go to Patsy’s to get a cannoli cookie and Italian Ice. I’m still attached to where I grew up. It was such a wonderful childhood, so being inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame was important and sweet.
Herald: You are not only a singer but a songwriter as well. What has inspired your writing over the years?
Benatar: It’s pretty organic. We don’t begin songs together, my husband and I. He’ll come up with a line or a melody and I’ll come up with a poem. I write all day, that’s all I do. So I’ll come up with a poem, which will become a chorus. Once we do begin the songs, we come together and write the songs together. Inspiration comes from everywhere, which is so fascinating to me, and probably the most seductive thing about what we do. Everything is still interesting, a mystery and exciting, because the world is just an amazing place — crazy and beautiful.
Herald: What has given you strength over the years to truly give your all at your live shows?
Benatar: I just love it. It has never changed for Neil or me. Live performance is still my favorite thing to do. The joy of actually being in a shared experience of performing is still the thing I love the most, that keeps me going, and it’s never old.
Herald: I’m sure you’ve had many career highlights. Are there a couple of moments that have stood out?
Benatar: There are so many moments. Sometimes they’re very small
— a little child will come up to the front of the stage and they hand you a flower. You’re always in awe of being blessed with something like this. I feel like my only job is to be a good steward of what I have.
The thing that stopped me in my tracks, though, I would have to say, was 9/11. We had to perform that night. The promoter begged us to perform. We begged him to please cancel the concert. We were just as distraught as everyone
else. The promoter said that people wanted to come, they wanted to be together. So we went out there and I just said to the audience that before we do this, I need to talk to you all first, because I don’t know how I’m going to do this and I may have to stop songs. The audience was sobbing. It was amazing. It was awful. They had bed sheets with God Bless America on them. This was one of the moments where you understand how important it is what you’re giving to each other in a performance. What they gave to me and what I hope I gave back to them at that moment is healing, it’s an embrace. That’s what it felt like. I felt like they were embracing us and we were embracing them. And songs like “Invincible,” were so powerful that night, it became like a rallying cry. I sang that song a billion times, but that night it was different.
Herald: Do you have any advice regarding resilience, overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, that you would like to share with our women readers in particular?
Benatar: Much has changed, and then much hasn’t changed, and someone is always ready to take it all back away from us. Everyone will push that limit, and you have to stand there like a warrior. Don’t think that you’re safe and everything is going to be OK, because every single day there’s someone challenging the position, trying to take away any strides we have made. I have two daughters, two granddaughters, and my whole thing is, you are unique and at the same time you are part of a collective, you are part of every female that went before you and every female that will go after you. Make it count!
Herald: And what do you have coming up in regard to new music, touring and projects?
Benatar: We’re going out on a spring tour and hitting all the places we didn’t hit last year. We’re looking forward to it. We’ll be pulling out a lot of new songs that haven’t been recorded yet. Neil and I also have a children’s book coming out, “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock.” It’s such unbelievable fun.
The one thing about art is it has so many forms. We have these three darling grandbabies. They are very precocious, and have seen us perform a few times, and they ask us all kinds of questions, so we thought it would be really fun to write them a book about why we do what we do and that people do all different kinds of things for jobs — some people are teachers and doctors, and these are people’s grandpas and grandmas too. It was joyous and fun, and it’s a very inclusive book. I really believe diversity is a superpower.
To learn more about “My Grandma and Grandpa Rock” or to pre-order a copy, visit read.sourcebooks.com/my-grandmaand-grandpa-rock-by-pat-benatar-andneil-giraldo. To find out more about Benatar and her upcoming tour, visit benatargiraldo.com.
Travis Shinn
Pat Benatar with her husband and creative partner, Neil Giraldo.
Notice of formation of Line of Pines, LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/04/2025
Office location, County of Suffolk.
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail a process served to: Line of Pines, LLC, 9 Suffolk Road, Island Park, NY 11558
Purpose: any lawful act.
25-136. 3/19, 26, 4/2, 9, 16, 23
Notice of formation of ELEVATION PARTNERS CONSULTING LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/25/2025
Office location, County of Nassau.
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail a process served to:
ELEVATION PARTNERS CONSULTING LLC
179 Atlantic Ave, Hempstead NY 11550
Purpose: Financial Analysis and Bookkeeping Services.
25-130 3/12, 19, 26, 4/2, 9. 16
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-25-107386 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 607 Northern Blvd, Great Neck, NY 11021, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at B Lucky 25A Corp. 25-170. 4/2. 9
Notice of formation of JUNK MASTERS PRO LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/22/2024
Office location, County of Nassau.
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail a process served to:
The LLC, Jerome A Alessi 27 Williams Drive Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Purpose: any lawful act.
25-139. 3/19, 26, 4/2, 9, 16, 23
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME
Heyer Design, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 1/29/25. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: Heyer Design, 221 Brixton Rd S, Garden City, NY 11530
Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.
25-185. 4/2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 5/7
MASSAPEQUA
UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
4925 MERRICK ROAD MASSAPEQUA, NEW YORK 11758
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
On behalf of a cooperative of School Districts in Nassau County, the Board of Education of the Massapequa Union Free School District, Massapequa, New
York, in accordance with Section 103 of General Municipal Law, hereby invites the submission of sealed bids from reputable and qualified contractors for the provision of materials for the following contract: Asphalt & Concrete Bid Opening April 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM Bids for the term of May I, 2025, through June 30, 2026, will be received until 10:00 a.m. April 25, 2025, at the office of Timothy O'Donnell, Director of Facilities, Massapequa Union Free School District, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, New York. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud on April 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Board of Education room. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at www.msd. k12.ny.us/bidsbeginning April 9, 2025. Bids must be presented on the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the specifications. All bids must be enclosed in sealed envelopes which are clearly marked on the outside: "Massapequa Union Free School District-Asphalt and Concrete Bid." Bids shall remain firm for a period of forty five (45) days following the date of the bid opening.
Each Board of Education reserves the right to waive any informalities in or to reject any or all bids, or to accept that bid which, in the Board of Education's judgment, is in the best interest of the School District. The Boards of Education further reserve the right to consider experience, service and reputation in the abovereferenced fields. In addition, the Boards of Education reserve the right to consider the
Public Notices
financial responsibility and specific qualifications, set forth in the bid specifications, of the prospective bidder in evaluation of the bids and award of the contracts.
25-188 4/9
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-034025-108544 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1029 Port Washington Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at AK Hospitality Enterprises Inc. 25-190. 4/9. 16
NOTICE
OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Nationstar Mortgage LLC dba Mr. Cooper, Plaintiff AGAINST Peter Falci, Kim Falci, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 5, 2019, 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 May 12, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 287 North Delaware Avenue, Massapequa, NY 11758. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Massapequa, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 52, Block: 527, Lot: 245. Approximate amount of judgment $800,575.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions
of filed Judgment Index #009037/2013. Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No third-party check or cash will be accepted . Lisa Goodwin, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-046203F00 84869
25-189 4/9, 16, 23, 30
NOTICE
TO BIDDERS MASSAPEQUA UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Bids will be received, publicly opened and read aloud for T-SHIRTSat 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the office of the Assistant Business Administrator, District Offices, Massapequa Public Schools, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758.
Specifications are available at the above address on or after Wednesday, April 9, 2025 25-187 4/9
Notice of Formation of Windswept Bay, LLC Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/16/25. Office: Nassau County, SSNY designated service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process to the LLC, 12 Shorewood Dr., Bayville, NY, 11709. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
25-191. 4/9, 16, 23, 30, 5/7, 14
LEGAL NOTICE ASSESSOR'S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL
THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2025/2026 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2026 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2025/2026 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2024. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals located in the offices of: DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days.
Dated this 1st day of April 2025.
JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 25-192. 4/9
Read the Legals
The benefits of planting native species
Spring and summer present ideal growing conditions for many plants, making these seasons an ideal time to tend to lawns and gardens. Though it’s easy to succumb to the temptation of exotic plants, avid gardeners and eco-conscious planters recognize the significance of native plants.
• Native plants are built for local climates. One of the issues gardeners who plant exotic plants run into is keeping those plants thriving when weather turns harsh. For example, exotic plants may require extra watering in areas that experience drought or even long periods without precipitation in spring and notably summer. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that at least 40 states anticipate water shortages by 2024. Planting native plants can help to combat those shortages by reducing the need to water plants if conditions become dry in late spring and summer.
• Native plants save money. It’s also important to note that native plants save homeowners money. Because they’re capable of thriving in local conditions, native plants tend to require less watering, which can hep homeowners reduce their utility costs. But native plants also require less upkeep, which means homeowners can save on potentially costly, not to mention eco-unfriendly, pesticides and other amendments in order to maintain the look of exotic plants. And though it’s not always the case, exotic plants tend to cost more at nurseries than natives.
• Native plants save gardeners time. In addition to saving money, native plants don’t require as much attention. Though spring and summer is a great time to be in the yard, it’s also a great time to be out and about. Because native plants thrive in local conditions, gardeners won’t need to spend much of their free time tending to them. Exotics tend to require a lot of extra attention and effort, especially when conditions become harsh. Spending more time outdoors in harsh weather does not appeal to most gardeners.
• Native plants blend in with an existing landscape. Native plants look natural within an existing landscape, adding some instant aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank. When planting exotics, homeowners may feel a need to redesign their entire gardens to create a certain look (think Japanese garden). That can quickly consume a budget and take up a lot of free time in both the short- and long-term.
Planting season marks a great time to revitalize a landscape. Choosing native plants when doing so pays numerous dividends for homeowners and the planet they call home.
Photos courtesy / Metro Creative Connection
Town of Oyster Bay / Zoning Board of Appeals
TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771-1592TELEPHONE: (516) 624-6232 – FAX: (516) 624-6149
RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman – LOIS
SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman –
KATHLEEN MULLIGAN
REBECCA M. ALESIA –LISA CICCOLELLA – FLO -
RESTANO GIRARDI
**********************
******************
PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on APRIL 17, 2025, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals: BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
APPEAL NO. 25-2
MASSAPEQUA
MELISSA REILL: (A)
Variance to allow existing firepit and shed having less front yard setback (Mohawk Drive) than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing gazebo having less side yard setback, rear yard setback and exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across front yard (Mohawk Drive) and side/ front yard (Mohawk Drive) than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Amend Specific Plan
as presented for Appeal No. 92-406 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated November 5, 1992.
E/s/o Mohawk Dr., 100 ft. S/o Shawnee Dr., a/k/a 7 Mohawk Drive, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-13
MASSAPEQUA
MICHAEL DUGAN:
(A) Variance to construct front roof over porch having less average front yard setback and aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (B) Variance to construct front roof over porch and second story addition having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Polo Rd., 440 ft. E/o Oxford Rd., a/k/a 38 Polo Road, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-17
MASSAPEQUA
ADAM LAPIDUS:
(A) Variance to allow existing 4 ft. by 8 ft. shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct one story addition having less side yard setback and aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters.
N/s/o Pittsburgh Ave., 179.29 ft. W/o Forest Ave., a/k/a 23 Pittsburgh Avenue, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-25
MASSAPEQUA
IAN ST. GEORGE:
(A) Variance to allow existing 4 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height within 30 ft. of intersection than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across front yard (Chicago Avenue) than permitted
by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing 11.8 ft. by 8.2 ft. shed having less front yard setback (Chicago Avenue) and side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to install in-ground swimming pool having less front yard setback (Chicago Avenue) than permitted by Ordinance. (E) Variance to install pool equipment having less front yard setback (Chicago Avenue) than permitted by Ordinance. (F) Variance to allow existing decorative bench having less rear yard setback and side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (G)
Variance to construct rear 18.5 ft. by 18.5 ft. roof over patio having less rear yard setback and side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
NW/ cor. of Parkside Blvd. & Chicago Ave., a/k/a 577 Parkside Boulevard, Massapequa, NY
ZONING
BOARD OF AP -
PEALS MEETING OF 04/17/25
PAGE 2
APPEAL NO. 25-97
MASSAPEQUA
JEFFREY & LAURA
HULSE: (A) Variance to install in-ground swimming pool having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to install spa having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to erect and allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard (Riviera Drive West) than permitted by Ordinance.
NE/ cor. of Tanwood Dr. & Riviera Dr. W., a/k/a 27 Tanwood Drive, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-103
Public Notices
MASSAPEQUA
ANTHONY CUR-
CIO: (A) Variance for the proposed expansion of an owneroccupied two-family dwelling. (B) Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 2 when 4 parking spaces are required.
N/s/o Ontario Ave., 140 ft. W/o Central Ave., a/k/a 111 Ontario Avenue, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-115
MASSAPEQUA ANDREA
HARTWIG: (A)
Variance to install inground swimming pool having less side/ front yard setback (Seaview Street) and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to install pool equipment having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing 14.2 ft. by 10.1 ft. shed having less side yard setback, rear yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard (Seaview Street) than permitted by Ordinance.
SW/ cor. of Springdale Ave. & Seaview St., a/k/a 3 Springdale Avenue, Massapequa, NY
APRIL 7, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK
25-186. 4/9
How to ensure a relaxing day
for Mom this Mother’s Day
The unconditional love and undying patience moms exhibit as they raise their children is worthy of more than just a single day of appreciation in May. Moms do a lot for their families, and though that’s something to celebrate every day, Mother’s Day merits upping the ante in regard to showing Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated. This year, families can work together to ensure this Mother’s Day is a day for Mom to relax and bask in all the extra attention she deserves.
• Serve breakfast in bed. Mom might be on breakfast detail on hectic weekday mornings, but Mother’s Day marks the perfect time for spouses and kids to take over those responsibilities. This year, keep the cereal in the pantry and go the extra mile by preparing a homemade breakfast and serving it to Mom in bed. Present the meal with a small bouquet of flowers and some reading material and then let Mom eat in peace and quiet if she so prefers.
• Turn the en suite into a spa. Nothing complements a relaxing breakfast in bed better than a subsequent dip in Mom’s own private spa. Transform the en suite or another bathroom into Mom’s personal soaking space. Clean the bathtub, light some candles around the tub and bathroom, turn on some relaxing music, dim the lights, and then invite Mom in to soak in a freshly drawn hot bubble bath.
• Keep Mom out of the kitchen. Keep the relaxing vibe going by making sure Mom doesn’t have to lift a finger in the kitchen. Make sure all the dishes are washed before Mom comes downstairs for the day and let her know you’ve already ordered lunch from a local restaurant. Even if Mom loves to cook, a day off from kitchen detail can make Mother’s Day that much more relaxing.
• Book some time in the great outdoors. If the weather allows, visit a nearby park as a family and go for a walk. Nature has its own way of helping people relax, so some time outdoors in the spring air can keep the peaceful vibe going into the afternoon. If the family includes young children, choose a park with a playground so Mom can relax and watch the kids play from a nearby bench.
• Book a dinner reservation. It might require some advance booking, as Mother’s Day reservations can be hard to come by, but a night at Mom’s favorite restaurant can be the perfect conclusion to a relaxing day. If Mom’s more of a homebody, whip up a homemade meal and let Mom relax with a glass of wine as you prepare a feast.
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a day of relaxation for mothers who do so much for their families throughout the year. Some simple planning can ensure Mom gets the R&R she deserves.
Photo Credit / Metro Creative Connection
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The Board of Education of the Plainedge Union Free School District invites the submission of Sealed Bid Proposals to furnish materials and labor to complete the Library Media Center Renovation & Site Improvements at John H. West Elementary School, Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School, Eastplain Elementary School and Plainedge Middle School in accordance with the plans and specifications for the following category(ies) of work:
PLAINEDGE
UNION FREE
SCHOOL DISTRICT
CAPITAL IM -
PROVEMENT PROJECT Library Media Center Renovation & Site Improvements Bid #24-002
John H. West Elementary School
Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School Eastplain Elementary School
Plainedge Middle School
CONTRACT G-1: GENERAL CONSTRUCTION
Sealed Bid Proposals will be received until 11:00AM prevailing time on May 2, 2025 at the School District Administration Office, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid may be withdrawn without prejudice prior to the official bid opening time or any publicized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date stated above will be returned to the bidder unopened. Bidders are solely responsible for the arrival of each bid at the School District Administration Office by the appointed time, regardless of the means of delivery.
Bids must be presented on the standard bid proposal form(s) in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications. All bids must be addressed to the Purchasing Agent, Justine Stringer, District Administration Building, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758. All bids shall be sealed and in an opaque envelope that is distinctly marked on the outside as follows: “Bid #24002, Library Media Center Renovation & Site Improvements at John H. West Elementary School, Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School, Eastplain Elementary School and Plainedge Middle School” as required by the Bid Specifications. The name of the bidder, bidders address, and the name of the contract, and/or contracts being bid must also appear on the outside of the envelope. The Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, 270 North Broadway, Hicksville New York, 516-8270240 (phone) during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding holidays. Bidders are encouraged to call ahead; however the Contract Documents may only be obtained through the Office of REVplans, 28 Church Street, Unit #7, Warwick, New York 10990 (877-272-0216) beginning on April 9, 2025. Complete digital sets of Contract Documents shall be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: revplans. biddyhq.com under ‘public projects’. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained di-
rectly from REVplans upon a deposit of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to Plainedge Union Free School District, and may be uncertified. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms of the ‘Information For Bidders’ to all submitting bids. Bidding Document costs are refundable provided the documents are returned to REVplans within thirty (30) days of the Bid Opening, and are COMPLETE, UNMARKED and in NOT TORN condition. Any bidder requiring printed documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract.
A Pre-Bid conference and walk-through will be held promptly
Public Notices
on April 17, 2025 at 12:00 noon at Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School, located at 1 Flower Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, at 12:45 pm at Eastplain Elementary School, located at 301 N. Delaware Ave, North Massapequa, NY 11758, at 1:30 pm at John H. West Elementary School, located at 499 Boundary Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714 and at 2:15 pm at the Plainedge Middle School, located at 200 Stewart Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714. All bidders shall meet at the front entrances of the schools. Prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend. Knowledge of the site is crucial to obtain a proper understanding of the Work. All bidders must be fully familiar with the sites. Bidders shall visit the sites of proposed work and be fully familiarized with conditions as they exist, as well as the character of the operations to be carried on under the proposed contract. All visits must be scheduled & coordinated with Brett Prochazka, Director of Facilities, at (516) 992-7422 or by email to Brett.Prochazka@ plainedgeschools.org. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check payable to PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT or by a Bid Bond in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the bid conditioned as set forth in the “Information for Bidders” of the Bid Specifications. All bid security, except those of the three lowest bidders will be returned within ten (10) days after bids are submitted. The bid security provided by the three lowest bidders will be returned after the execution of the Trade Contract. The District will require the successful bidder
to provide separate Performance and Labor & Materials Payment Bonds in the amount of the contract price and in the form specified in the Bid Documents.
Each Bidder shall prepare their bid proposal, along with a bid security, in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the “Information for Bidders” and Bid Specifications. Attention of bidders is particularly called to the minimum wage rates to be paid under the contracts. Wages to workers, laborers and mechanics employed to work on this project shall be paid in accordance with Section 220 of the Labor Law and in accordance with the Prevailing Rate Schedules found in the Project Manual. Proof of such payments will be required.
The District reserves the right to award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder providing the required security within fortyfive (45) days of the date opening of the bids. To the fullest extent allowed by law, the District further reserves the right to reject bids that contain conditions, omissions, exceptions or modifications, or in its sole discretion to waive any irregularities in the bids, or to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the District is in its best interest.
By Order of Board of Education Plainedge Union Free School District
Maureen
Ryan, District Clerk
April 9, 2025 25-193 4/9
How to plan an engaging vacation
Recreation is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. The nonprofit HelpGuide.org notes that making time for recreation provides a host of health benefits, including reduced stress, improved brain function and even stronger relationships.
Despite the well-documented benefits of taking time off, millions of vacation days go unused each year. According to an Ipsos survey conducted near the end of 2024, nearly half of working professionals in the United States expected to have unused vacation days by the end of that year. The cost of travel has risen in recent years, and a 2024 report from Deloitte indicated that price concerns kept many would-be vacationers from traveling that summer. Though costs might remain high depending on how vacationers travel and where they’re going, there are still ways to plan an engaging vacation without breaking the bank.
• Pick the right time of year to travel. Summer is the most popular time to vacation because shool is out and work requirements tend to be a little less demanding in many industries. However, summer also is the most expensive time to travel. Fall tends to be much more affordable, and estimates from the travel aggregator Expedia indicate airfare costs in fall historically drop by 10 percent compared to the peak summer travel season. If summer is the only season when a vacation can be taken, consider driving to a destination to save on airfare costs.
• Plan ahead. Travelers who truly want to experience life in a different locale are urged to plan ahead so their vacations can be as immersive as possible. Even vacationers who book stays in all-inclusive resorts can plan day trips into local neighborhoods outside resort walls to get a more authentic idea of what it’s like to live, eat and play in a given destination. By waiting until you arrive at a destination to look into local attractions, you might not be able to book restaurant reservations or other excursions. Plan ahead and book as early as possible.
• Ask locals. It’s easy to have limited engagements with locals when vacationing, particularly when staying at a resort. However, locals can be invaluable resources for vacationers who want to immerse themselves in the culture and cuisine of the cities or towns where they’ll be staying. Ask locals for advice on local restaurants, beaches and cultural attractions. Locals typically know where to go for a more authentic and less touristy vibe, and that can make for a more engaging trip.
• Welcome chances to get out of your comfort zone. There’s nothing wrong with a vacation built around rest and relaxation, which can be the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of life back home. But vacationers who want something more engaging than sun-soaked afternoons on a waterfront chaise lounger are urged to embrace opportunities to escape their comfort zone. Whether it’s hiking excursions, whitewater kayaking trips or parasailing sessions, there are many ways to make a vacation more engaging.
Vacations can be as engaging as vacationers desire, and there’s no shortage of ways to make your next getaway more immersive.
Photo Credit / Metro Creative Connection
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION
Massapequa School District 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the Massapequa Union Free School District, Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York, will be held at Board Room of the Massapequa Administration Building, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, New York 11758 in said District on May 8, 2025 at 8 p.m. prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.
•Presentation of the budget document.
•To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on May 20, 2025, as hereinafter set forth.
• To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on May 20, 2025, at 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. prevailing time, in the school buildings located in such districts as enumerated below:
District No.
1: Massapequa High School
4925 Merrick Road Mass -
apequa, NY 11758
District No. 2: McKenna Elementary School
210 Spruce St. Massapequa Park, NY 11762
District No. 3: Lockhart Elementary School
199 Pittsburgh Ave Massapequa, NY 11758
District No. 4:
Fairfield Elementary School
330 Massapequa Ave Massapequa, NY 11758
at which time the polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2025-26 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
2. To adopt the annual budget of the Massapequa Union Free School District Public Library for the fiscal year 2025-26 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the School District.
3. To elect one (1) member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring on June 30, 2028.
• To elect one (1) trustee of the Library Board of Trustees for a five (5) year term beginning July1, 2025 and ending on June 30, 2030.
• SHALLTHE BOARD OF EDUCATION be authorized to expend funds already deposited in the Massapequa Union Free School District “Capital Reserve Fund 2022” (the “Fund”) approved by voters of the District on May 17, 2022 pursuant to Section 3651 of the Education Law for the following capital improvement projects: Berner Middle School Softball Field Light Installation, Districtwide HVAC upgrades, MHS - Ames Campus Mechanical upgrades, McKenna Elementary auxiliary gym window replacements, Districtwide Audio Visual upgrades and Districtwide interior renovation; general
education and specialty classrooms and any ancillary or related work required in connection with such projects; and to expend from the Fund therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto, in an amount not to exceed the estimated total of $4,000,000.
AND FURTHER
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the Massapequa Union Free School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District Clerk’s office, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 not later than April 21, 2025, between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by 57 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Vacancies on the Board of Education shall not be considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large.
AND FURTHER
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5
Public Notices
of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Voters may register on any school day prior to May 15, 2025, at the District Office, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, to add any additional names to the registers to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such registers provided that at the meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known, or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such public hearing or election for which such registers are prepared, and that the registers so prepared pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and the registration list prepared by the Board of Elections of Nassau County will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk of the School District, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on weekdays between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., prevailing time, on and after May 15, 2025, and Saturday by pre-arranged appointment, except Sunday; AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to New York Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the following locations: Massapequa High School Gym, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, John P. McKenna School – Senior Center, 210 Spruce Street,
Massapequa Park, NY 11762, Raymond J. Lockhart School Gym, 199 Pittsburgh Avenue, Massapequa, NY 11758 and Fairfield School General Purpose Room, 330 Massapequa Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758 between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 p.m., prevailing time, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2026, and any special meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such Register is prepared.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District Clerk at 516-308-5001 for information about accessibility.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 8, 2025 public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election
on the school district website www.msd.k12. ny.us., at the Massapequa Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 523 Central Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758 and 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park, NY 11762, at the School District Administrative Center, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 and at each of the following school buildings in which school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: Birch Lane Elementary School, 41 Birch Lane, Massapequa Park, NY 11762
East Lake Elementary School, 154 East Lake Ave, Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Fairfield Elementary School, 330 Massapequa Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
Raymond J. Lockhart Elementary School, 199 Pittsburgh Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
John P. McKenna Elementary School, 210 Spruce St., Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Unqua Elementary School, 350 Unqua Road, Massapequa, NY 11758
Alfred G. Berner Middle School, 50 Carman Mill Road, Massapequa, NY 11758
Massapequa High School – Ames Campus, 198 Baltimore Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
Massapequa High School – Main Campus, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption
report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 21, 2025 In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018-a and 2018-e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not
later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after May 15, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 17, 2025, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 516-308-5001 and on May 20, 2025, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Massapequa Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to abellizzi@msd.k12. ny.us or fax sent to 516-308-5009. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be
Continued on next page
Continued from previous page received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Massapequa Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to abellizzi@msd.k12. ny.us or fax sent to 516-308-5009. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 24, 2025. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 along with the required signed affidavit by the voter. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 20, 2025 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another
agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to change the number of Board of Education members, or a bond issue for capital improvements, or any other petition required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election must be filed with the District Clerk at 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on March 21, 2025. Any other petition, except those petitions required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election, must be filed with the District Clerk at the Massapequa, School District, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, no later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time on April 21, 2025. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 142 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to deter-
mine, nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law.
AND FURTHER
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at 516-308-5001.
Anne Marie Bellizzi
District Clerk of the Board of Education
Massapequa School District
4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758
March 20, 2025 25-177. 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN Y ELECCIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO
Distrito Escolar de Massapequa 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758
POR LA PRESENTE
SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una audiencia pública de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Massapequa, Municipio de Oyster Bay, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en la Sala de Juntas del Edificio Administrativo de Massapequa, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, Nueva York 11758, en dicho Distrito, el 8 de mayo de 2025 a las 8 p. m., hora vigente, para tratar los asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes puntos:
1. Presentación del documento presupuestario.
2. Debatir todos los puntos aquí establecidos, que se someterán a votación mediante máquina de votación, en la elección que se celebrará el 20 de mayo de 2025, como se establece a continuación.
Public Notices
3. Tratar cualquier otro asunto que se presente debidamente ante la asamblea.
Y ADEMÁS SE AVISA POR LA PRESENTE que dicha votación y elección se llevará a cabo el día 20 de mayo de 2025, de 6 a. m. a 9 p. m. Horario vigente, en los edificios escolares ubicados en los distritos que se enumeran a continuación:
Distrito # 1: Escuela Secundaria Massapequa 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758
Distrito # 2: Escuela Primaria McKenna 210 Spruce St. Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Distrito # 3: Escuela Primaria Lockhart 199 Pittsburgh Ave Massapequa, NY 11758
Distrito # 4: Escuela Primaria Fairfield 330 Massapequa Ave Massapequa, NY 11758
En ese momento, las urnas estarán abiertas de 6:00 a. m. a 9:00 p. m., horario vigente, para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos:
1. Aprobar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2025-26 y autorizar que la parte correspondiente se recaude mediante impuestos. Sobre los bienes gravables del Distrito.
2. Aprobar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca Pública del Distrito Escolar Gratuito de la Unión de Massapequa para el año fiscal 2025-26 y autorizar que la parte correspondiente se recaude mediante impuestos sobre los bienes gravables del Distrito Escolar.
3. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación por un período de tres (3) años, que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2025 y finalizará el 30 de junio
de 2028.
4. Elegir a un (1) miembro del Consejo Directivo de la Biblioteca por un período de cinco (5) años, que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2025 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2030.
5. ¿SE DEBERÁ AUTORIZAR A LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN a utilizar los fondos ya depositados en el “Fondo de Reserva de Capital 2022” del Distrito Escolar Libre de Massapequa Union (el “Fondo”), aprobado por los votantes del Distrito el 17 de mayo de 2022, de conformidad con la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación, para los siguientes proyectos de mejora de capital: instalación de iluminación en el campo de sóftbol de la Escuela Intermedia Berner, mejoras en el sistema de climatización (HVAC) del Distrito, mejoras en el sistema mecánico del Campus Ames de MHS, reemplazo de ventanas del gimnasio auxiliar de la Escuela Primaria McKenna, mejoras en el sistema audiovisual del Distrito y renovación interior del Distrito; aulas de educación general y especializadas, y cualquier obra auxiliar o relacionada necesaria en relación con dichos proyectos? y gastar del Fondo para tal fin, incluidos los costos preliminares y los costos incidentales, en una cantidad que no exceda el total estimado de $4,000.000. Y ADEMÁS, POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Massapequa deberán presentarse ante el Secretario de Distrito de dicho Distrito Escolar en la oficina del Secretario de Distrito, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa,
NY 11758, a más tardar el 21 de abril de 2025, entre las 9 a. m. y las 5 p. m., hora vigente. Todas las peticiones de nominación deben estar firmadas por 57 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de 25 o el 2 % del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante y deben indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se considerarán cargos separados y específicos; los candidatos se postulan en general.
ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 o de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y ha votado en cualquier reunión anual o especial del distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, dicho votante es elegible para votar en esta elección; si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, dicho votante también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. Los votantes pueden registrarse en cualquier día escolar antes del 15 de mayo de 2025, en la Oficina del Distrito, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora predominante, para agregar nombres adicionales a los regis-
tros que se utilizarán en la elección mencionada, momento en el cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dichos registros siempre que en la reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa, o se demuestre a satisfacción de la Junta de Registro que él o ella es conocido, o probado a satisfacción de la Junta de Registro para ser entonces o más tarde derecho a votar en dicha audiencia pública o elección para la que se preparan dichos registros, y que los registros así preparados de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y la lista de registro preparado por la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau se presentará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito del Distrito Escolar, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 y estará abierto para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado del Distrito en días laborables entre las 8:30 a.. m. y 4:30 p.m., hora actual, a partir del 15 de mayo de 2025, y los sábados con cita previa, excepto los domingos; Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que de conformidad con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, en los siguientes lugares: Massapequa High School Gym, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, John P. McKenna School - Senior Center, 210 Spruce Street, Massapequa Park, NY 11762, Raymond J. Lockhart School Gym, 199 Pittsburgh Avenue, Massapequa, NY 11758 y Fairfield School General Purpose Room, 330 Massapequa Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758 entre las 6 a.m. y las
9 p.m., tiempo prevaleciente, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la reunión anual y la elección que se celebrará en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a tener su nombre colocado en tal. Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o posteriormente en la reunión escolar o elección para la que se prepara dicho Registro.
Y SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que los votantes calificados con discapacidades que busquen información sobre el acceso a los lugares de votación pueden, antes del día de la votación, comunicarse con el Secretario del Distrito al 516-308-5001 para obtener información sobre la accesibilidad. Y SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que a partir de los siete (7) días inmediatamente anteriores a la audiencia pública sobre el presupuesto del 8 de mayo de 2025, cualquier residente del Distrito puede solicitar revisar una copia del presupuesto propuesto presentándose en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758. Además, una declaración de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente puede ser obtenida por cualquier residente en el Distrito durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección en el sitio web del distrito escolar www.msd.k12. ny.us., en la Biblioteca
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Pública de Massapequa durante su horario normal de funcionamiento, ubicada en 523 Central Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758 y 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park, NY 11762, en el Centro Administrativo del Distrito Escolar, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares en los que se mantiene la escuela entre las horas de 9 a.m. y 4 p.m., hora predominante, excepto sábados, domingos y días festivos:
Escuela Primaria Birch Lane, 41 Birch Lane, Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Escuela Primaria East Lake, 154 East Lake Ave, Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Escuela Primaria Fairfield, 330 Massapequa Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
Escuela primaria Raymond J. Lockhart, 199 Pittsburgh Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
Escuela primaria John P. McKenna, 210 Spruce St., Massapequa Park, NY 11762
Escuela Primaria Unqua, 350 Unqua Road, Massapequa, NY 11758
Escuela Secundaria Alfred G. Berner, 50 Carman Mill Road, Massapequa, NY 11758
Massapequa High School - Ames Campus, 198 Baltimore Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758
Massapequa High School - Main Campus, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que, de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar a su proyecto de presupuesto un informe de exenciones. Dicho informe de exención,
que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cuánto del valor total tasado en la lista de tasación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención concedida, identificada por la autoridad estatutaria, y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, expresado como importe en dólares del valor tasado o como porcentaje del valor tasado total del padrón; (b) el importe acumulativo que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas. El informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios que mantenga el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web que mantenga el Distrito.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE, que las solicitudes de boletas de ausente y de voto anticipado por correo se podrán obtener durante el horario escolar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 21 de abril de 2025 De conformidad con la Ley de Educación §§ 2018-a y 2018-e, las solicitudes de boletas de ausente y de voto anticipado por correo completadas no podrán ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes de treinta (30) días previos a la elección, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta va a ser enviada por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la boleta va a ser entregada personalmente al votante o al
agente nombrado en la solicitud de boleta para voto en ausencia o por correo anticipado. Las boletas de ausente y de correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, del martes 20 de mayo de 2025.
Una lista de personas a quienes se les han emitido boletas de votante ausente, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les han emitido boletas de votante por correo anticipado, estarán disponibles para inspección de votantes calificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito el 15 de mayo de 2025 y después, entre las 9:00 a. m. y 4:00 p.m. los días laborables anteriores al día fijado para la elección anual y el 17 de mayo de 2025, con cita previa llamando al Secretario del Distrito al 516-308-5001 y el 20 de mayo de 2025, el día fijado para la elección. Cualquier votante cualificado puede, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las cualificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dichas listas, indicando las razones de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o una persona designada por la Junta de Educación a los inspectores de la elección el día de la elección.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE, que los votantes militares que actualmente no están registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votante calificado del Distrito Escolar Libre de Massapequa Union solicitando y devolviendo una solicitud de registro al
Public Notices
Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a abellizzi@msd.k12. ny.us o fax enviado al 516-308-5009. La solicitud de inscripción puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de inscripción por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de inscripción de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 24 de abril de 2025.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE, que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Massapequa Union pueden solicitar una solicitud de boleta militar al Secretario del Distrito y devolver dicha solicitud de boleta militar al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a abellizzi@msd.k12. ny.us o por fax enviado al 516-308-5009. Para que a un votante militar se le emita una papeleta militar, debe recibirse una solicitud válida de papeleta militar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 24 de abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de boleta militar recibidas de conformidad con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de boleta no militar en virtud de la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de papeleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar de recibir la papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud original de boleta militar y la boleta militar del votante militar deben devolverse por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 4925 Merrick
Road, Massapequa, NY 11758 junto con la declaración jurada firmada requerida por el votante.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE, que las boletas de los militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 20 de mayo de 2025 mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 20 de mayo de 2025 y firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo de la misma. m. del 20 de mayo de 2025 y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo de la misma, con una fecha que se compruebe que no es posterior al día anterior a las elecciones.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que de conformidad con una norma adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para cambiar el número de miembros de la Junta de Educación, o una emisión de bonos para mejoras capitales, o cualquier otra petición requerida por ley para ser declarada en el Aviso de Reunión Anual y Elección debe ser presentada ante el Secretario del Distrito en 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el 21 de marzo de 2025. Cualquier otra petición, excepto aquellas peticiones requeridas por la ley para ser declaradas en el Aviso de Reunión Anual y Elección, debe
ser presentada ante el Secretario del Distrito en Massapequa, Distrito Escolar, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY 11758, a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el 21 de abril de 2025. Todas estas peticiones deben estar mecanografiadas o impresas en el idioma inglés; deben estar dirigidas al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmadas por al menos 142 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representen el mayor de 25 o 5% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y deben indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, el Consejo de Educación no admitirá ninguna petición para presentar a los votantes ninguna proposición cuyo propósito no esté dentro de los poderes de los votantes para determinarlo, ni ninguna proposición o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley. Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre esta Votación del Presupuesto y Elección en español deben comunicarse con la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito al 516308-5001. Anne Marie Bellizzi Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación
Distrito Escolar de Massapequa 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758 20 de marzo de 2025 25-178. 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7 Read the Legas and keep
Low-cost ways to revamp living areas
Home improvement projects require substantial financial investment. But just because a homeowner wants to bring a fresh look indoors doesn’t mean he or she has to break the bank along the way.
Living rooms are some of the most frequently used spaces in a home, and they can use an update from time to time to stay on trend or to make the area more functional for a changing family dynamic. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for breathing new life into living room designs.
• Establish the budget. Homeowners should figure out how many dollars they can designate to a living room makeover before purchasing supplies or hiring out the work. Figure out the scope of the remodel, visit stores or suppliers to price out materials, get estimates from contractors, and then plan for some unforseen circumstances along the way to determine if this type of renovation is affordable. If not, scale things back until the project more closely aligns with your budget.
• Change the paint color. Lighter and brighter colors are on trend. A can or two of paint can do wonders for updating a space without a large financial commitment. Pair that new paint color with new window coverings and complementary throw pillows to pull the theme together with minimal expense.
• Update the flooring. Tired, outdated carpeting or other flooring can use an overhaul. While solid hardwood flooring may be preferable, there are many types of laminate flooring that mimic the looks of popular wood colors and styles for a fraction of the cost. Plus, many are sold at home improvement retailers and even at warehouse clubs or online for reasonable prices. Laminate flooring also may be a potential DIY job for a skilled homeowner, saving even more money.
• Introduce a fireplace. Fireplaces were once hot commodities, but that popularity waned in the 1970s and 1980s. Homeowners with chimneys may discover a fireplace was boarded over and the bare bones still exist that can be renovated to bring back character. There also are ventless freestanding units that are quite affordable that can mimic the look of a built-in fireplace.
• Conquer clutter. Rather than adding something to the living room, remove clutter to give the room a more airy feel. This can instantly change the look of the room. Use cord covers to tame plugs for electronics and remove unnecessary furniture from the room.
Living room spaces in need of an update often can benefit from improvements that go easy on the wallet
Photo Credit / Metro Creative Connection
BOARD OF EDUCATION
AMITYVILLE UFSD
REGULAR MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETING – MARCH 26, 2025
ACTION AGENDA ITEM
2C-1
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION
AMITYVILLE
UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWNS OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY AND, OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that a budget hearing before the qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York will be held at the Amityville Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, in said District on May 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:
1. To present to the voters a detailed statement (proposed budget) of the amount of money which will be required for the 20252026 fiscal year.
2. To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machines at the vote and election to be held on Tuesday, May 20. 2025
3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.
A copy of the proposed budget shall be made available, upon request, to residents of the school district beginning May 5, 2025
through and including May 20, 2025 during regular business hours at the Office of the District Clerk, Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Chapter 258 of the Laws of 2008, Section 495 was added to the Real Property Tax Law, and requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the annual vote and election will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., in the two election districts, namely Northeast Elementary School, 420 Albany Avenue, Amityville, New York, and Amityville Memorial High School, 250 Merrick
Road, Amityville, New York, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machine upon the following items:
• To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 20252026 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
• To elect two members of the Board of Education as follows:
• One member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term to succeed Christopher Nehring, whose term expires on May 20, 2025.
• One member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term to succeed Wendy Canestro, whose term expires on June 30, 2025; AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget for 2025-2026, exclusive of public monies, may be obtained by any resident of the District during business hours beginning May 5, 2025 through and including May 20, 2025, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, and at each of the following schoolhouses:
Amityville Memorial High School
Edmund W. Miles Middle School Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School Northwest Elementary School Northeast Elementary School AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of
Public Notices
member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, not later than April 21, 2025 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated; must be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least 35 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 qualified voters or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and, must state the name and residence of the candidate.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 21, 2025; completed applications must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee ballot application. Absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Absentee Ballot applications will not be accepted by the District more than 30 days prior to the election.
A list of persons to whom absentee ballots are issued will be
available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, on and after Thursday, May 15, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 20, 2025 the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such list, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such list, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law in the Amityville Union Free School District and has voted at an annual or special district meeting in such district within the last four calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Voters may register to vote on any school day up to and including May 15, 2025 at the District Office, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name
placed on such registers, provided that he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the register is prepared. The register so prepared pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District in the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on May 15, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, by advance appointment on Saturday and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Amityville Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, by mail to District Clerk, Amityville Union Free School District, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, 11701 by email to llarson@amityvilleufsd.org or fax sent to (631) 598-6586. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application, by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are
qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District, may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk in person, by mail to District Clerk, Amityville Union Free School District, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, by email to llarson@ amityvilleufsd.org or fax sent to (631) 5986586. In such request, the military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 24, 2025. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, a military voter’s original military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the Office of the District Clerk at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 20, 2025 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a
dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law of the State of New York, the Board of Registration will meet on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., at the Northeast Elementary School and the Amityville High School, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the election to be held in 2026, and any special district meetings that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after May 20, 2025. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with §2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk of the Board of Education at the Park North Administration Building, located
Continued from previous page at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, on or before March 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, except for petitions relating to a proposition which must be included in the notice of the annual meeting which must be filed with the District Clerk of the Board of Education at the Park North Administration Building on or before April 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 35 qualified voters of the District (representing 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that election districts have been established in the School District. The boundaries of the election districts, as adopted by resolution of the Board of Education, and the polling place in each election district shall be as follows:
Election District No. 1 – Northeast Elementary School
• North by school district boundary line (Southern State Parkway)
• East by
school district boundary line (Great Neck Road, Albany Avenue and Bayview Avenue)
• South by Long Island Rail Road
• West by School district boundary line (Carman Road)
• Being that part of the School District North of the Long Island Railroad Election District No. 2 – Amityville Memorial High School
• North by Long Island Rail Road
• East by school district boundary line (Amityville Village line)
• South by school district boundary line (Great South Bay)
• West by school district boundary line (Carman River and Carman Road)
• Being that part of the School District South of the Long Island Railroad
Dated: Amityville, New York March 26, 2025
By Order of the Board of Education of the Amityville Union Free School District Towns of Babylon, Suffolk County and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York
Lynn Larson, District Clerk 25-180. 4/2, 9, 16, 23
AVISO DE JUNTA ANUAL, VOTACIÓN DE PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN EN EL DISTRITO ESCOLAR DE AMITYVILLE (AMITYVILLE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT) MUNICIPIO DE BABYLON, MUNICIPIO DE OYSTER BAY, CONDADO DE SUFFOLK Y, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO, de que va a llevar a cabo una audiencia presupues-
taria ante los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), Municipio de Babylon, Municipio de Oyster Bay, Condado de Suffolk y Condado de Nassau, Nueva York en Amityville Park Avenue Memorial Elementary, 140 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, en dicho distrito el 7 de mayo de 2025 a las 7:30 pm, para la gestión de los siguientes asuntos tal y como faculta la Ley de Educación, incluidos los siguientes elementos:
• Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (propuesta de presupuesto) de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2025-2026.
•Discutir todos los puntos que se establecen a continuación para ser sometidos a plebiscito mediante máquinas de sufragio para la votación y elección que se realizará el martes 20 de mayo de 2025.
•Tratar cualquier otro asunto debidamente presentado antes de la reunión de conformidad con la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York y cualquier enmienda a ella.
Se pondrá a disposición de los residentes del distrito escolar una copia del presupuesto propuesto, previa solicitud, a partir del 5 de mayo de 2025 hasta el 20 de mayo de 2025 inclusive durante el horario de atencion al publico habitual en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, Edificio de Administración Park North, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con el Capítulo 258 de las Leyes de 2008, fue incorporada la Sección
Public Notices
495 a la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria, por la que se requiere que el Distrito Escolar adjunte a su propuesta de presupuesto, un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también pasará a formar parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué parte del valor tasado total en el registro tributario final usado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, se enumeran todos los tipos de exenciones otorgadas, identificadas por la autoridad legal, mostrando: (a) el impacto acumulado de cada tipo de exención expresado bien como una cantidad en dólares del valor tasado o como un porcentaje del valor tasado total en el registro; (b) el monto acumulado que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulado de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exención se publicará en alguno de los tablones de anuncios que tiene el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web administrado por el Distrito.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que la votación y elecciones anuales se llevarán a cabo el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 am y las 9:00 pm, en los dos distritos electorales, a saber, Northeast Elementary School, 420 Albany Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, y Amityville Memorial High School, 250 Merrick Road, Amityville, Nueva York, cuando estarán abiertas las urnas para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes asuntos:
• Adoptar el presu-
puesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2025-2026 y autorizar que la cuota requerida del mismo se recaude mediante los impuestos sobre las propiedades sujetas a tributación en el distrito.
• Elegir dos miembros de la Junta de Educación de la siguiente manera:
• Un miembro de la Junta de Educación por un plazo de tres (3) años para suceder a Christopher Nehring, cuyo mandato expira el 20 de mayo de 2025
• Un miembro de la Junta de Educación por un plazo de tres (3) años para suceder a Wendy Canestro, cuyo mandato expira el 30 de junio de 2025.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que cualquier residente del Distrito puede obtener una copia del estado de cuenta con el importe necesario para financiar el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar durante 2025-2026, excluyendo el dinero público, durante las horas de atención al público, a partir del 5 de mayo de 2025 hasta el 20 de mayo de 2025 inclusive, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos, en el Edificio de Administración de Park Avenue, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, y en cada una de las siguientes escuelas:
Amityville Memorial High School
Edmund W. Miles
Middle School
Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School
Northwest Elementary School
Northeast Elementary School
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que las solicitudes para nominar a los candidatos para los cargos en la Junta de Educación deberán
presentarse ante la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar en su oficina en el Edificio de Administración de Park North,150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York no más tarde del 21 de abril de 2025 entre el 9:00 am y 5:00 pm. Los puestos vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos independientes específicos, los candidatos se presentan en general. Las solicitudes de nominación no deberán indicar ninguna vacante especifica en la Junta para la que el candidato está nominado, deben estar dirigidas a la Secretaria del Distrito, deberán estar firmadas al menos por 35 votantes calificados del Distrito (representando a más de 25 votantes calificados o el 2% del total de votantes que participaron en la elección anual previa); deberá indicar el nombre y domicilio de cada firmante y deberán indicar el nombre y el domicilio del candidato.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que las solicitudes para las papeletas de voto en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario de atencion al publico en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del 21 de abril de 2025; Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas en la Secretaría del distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante o al agente designado en la solicitud de voto en ausencia . La Secretaria del Distrito debe recibir las papeletas de voto en ausencia no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. del martes 20 de mayo de 2025. El distrito no aceptará
solicitudes para papeletas de voto en ausencia más de 30 días antes de la elección.
La lista con las personas a las que se les ha emitido las papeletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para ser inspeccionada por los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York a partir y después del 15 de mayo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. los días laborables anteriores al día establecido para la elección anual y el mismo día 20 de mayo de 2025, día establecido para la elección. Cualquier votante cualificado puede, al examinar dicha lista, presentar una impugnación por escrito sobre la habilitación como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dicha lista, indicando las razones de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida a los inspectores electorales por la Secretaria del Distrito o una persona designada por la Junta de Educación el día de la elección.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que es necesario el registro en persona de los votantes conforme a la sección §2014 de la Ley de Educación o conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante está registrado con anterioridad conforme a § 2014 de la Ley de Educación en el Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District) y ha votado en alguna reunión anual o especial en dicho distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro años naturales, será elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado
y es elegible para votar bajo el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral,será también apto para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. Los votantes pueden registrarse para votar cualquier día lectivo antes de o el mismo día 15 de mayo de 2025 en las Oficinas del Distrito,150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, entre las 8:30 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dichos registros, siempre y cuando él o ella cumplan con los requisitos de la Junta de Registro para tener el derecho de votar a partir de ese momento o en el futuro en las elecciones para las que se establece el registro. El registro así establecido de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio Administrativo de Park North, y se abrirá para poder ser inspeccionado por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito a partir del 15 de mayo. 2025, entre las 9:00 A.M. Y las 4:00 P.M., de lunes a viernes, los días previos al día fijado para la elección, excepto el domingo, con cita previa el sábado y en los centros de votación el mismo día de la votación. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District) solicitando y devolviendo una solicitud de registro a la Secretaria
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LMAS10
Continued from previous page
del Distrito en persona, por correo a la Secretaria del Distrito, Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, 11701 por correo electrónico a llarson@ amityvilleufsd.org o por fax al (631) 5986586. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro, ya sea por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de inscripción en el registro de los votantes militares debe recibirse en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. el 24 de abril de 2025.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), pueden solicitar papeletas de voto para militares en la Secretaria del Distrito en persona, por correo a la Secretaria del Distrito, Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, por correo electrónico a llarson@amityvilleufsd.org o por fax al (631)598-6586. En dicha solicitud, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico.
Los militares que voten deben devolver la solicitud original de papeletas de voto para militares por correo o en persona a la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York. Para que un votante militar re-
ciba una papeleta de voto para militares, se debe recibir una solicitud de papeleta de voto para militares válida en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m., el 24 de abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de papeleta de voto para militares recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta de voto no militar bajo la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de papeleta de voto para militares puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar de recibir la papeleta de voto por correo, fax o correo electrónico.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, de que el original de la papeleta de voto de un votante militar debe devolverse por correo o en persona a la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito en 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York. Las papeletas de votos de militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 20 de mayo de 2025 mostrando un matasellos del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando el acuso de recibo de otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibido a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 20 de mayo de 2025 y firmado y fechado por el elector militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se verifica no posterior al día anterior a la elección.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, de que de conformidad con la §2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se
reunirá el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 A.M. Y las 9:00 P.M., en Northeast Elementary School y Amityville Memorial High School, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la elección que se llevará a cabo en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial del distrito que pueda realizarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, momento en el que, cualquier persona tendrá derecho de inscribir su nombre en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se demuestre que el o ella cumplen con los requisitos de dicha Junta de Registro otorgándole el derecho a votar en ese momento o en el futuro, en las elecciones de la escuela para las que se establece dicho Registro, o cualquier reunión especial del distrito que se lleve a cabo después del 20 de mayo de 2025. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la sección §2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para modificar el presupuesto, o cualquier otro asunto que sea sometido a votación en dicha elecciones, deberá presentarse ante la Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación en el Edificio de Administración de Park North, el mismo dia o antes del 21 de marzo a las 5:00 pm, hora vigente, excepto las peticiones relacionadas con una proposición que deba ser incluida en el avviso de la reunión anual que debe ser registrado en la Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación el mismo dia o antes del 21 de abril de 2025 a las 5:00 pm deberá
Public Notices
estar mecanografiado o impreso en el idioma inglés; deberá estar dirigido a la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar; deberá estar firmado por al menos 35 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representan el 2% del número total de votantes en la elección anual anterior); y deberá indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no aceptará ninguna proposición para presentar a los votantes cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las atribuciones de los votantes, ya que sería ilegal, o cualquier proposición que no incluya una asignación específica de los gastos incurridos mediante dicha propuesta, o cuando exista cualquier otra razón válida para excluir la propuesta de las papeletas de votación.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, de que se han establecido distritos electorales en el Distrito Escolar. Los límites de los distritos electorales, adoptados por resolución de la Junta de Educación, y el lugar de votación en cada distrito electoral serán los siguientes: Distrito Electoral No. 1-Northeast Elementary School
•Al l Norte por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Southern State Parkway)
•Al este por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Great Neck Road, Albany Avenue y Bayview Avenue)
• Al Sur por Long Island Rail Road (Ferrocarril de LI)
• Al Oeste por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Carman Road)
• Siendo esa parte del distrito escolar al norte del Long Island Rail Road
Distrito Electoral No.
2-Amityville Memorial High School
•Al Norte por el
Long Island Rail Road
•Al Este por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (línea de Amityville Village)
•Al Sur por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Great South Bay)
•Al oeste por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Carman River y Carman Road)
•Siendo esa parte del distrito escolar al sur del Long Island Rail Road
Fecha: Amityville, Nueva York
26 de marzo de 2025 Por orden de la Junta de Educación de la Amityville UFSD Ciudad de Oyster Bay, Ciudad de Babylon, Condado de Nassau y Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York
Lynn Larson, Secretaria del Distrito 25-181 4/2, 9, 16, 23
Spring cleaning pointers
Spring is a season of renewal. When the flowers are blooming and the trees are budding and the weather is pleasantly warm, people often feel inspired to make changes around their homes. Work may begin with culling belongings and organizing essentials.
There is debate regarding where the practice of “spring cleaning” originated. Some researchers link it to certain religious groups. It has long been an ancient Jewish custom to thoroughly clean a house in preparation for the springtime feast of Passover. The house is scoured to remove any yeast bread, or chametz, from the home. Similarly, members of the Greek Orthodox church celebrate “Clean Week,” which is a week of cleaning before Lent. In Iranian culture, families spend days cleaning prior to the Persian New Year, which begins on the spring equinox.
Spring cleaning also has some secular roots. For instance, in the 1800s, Londoners routinely cleared their homes of grime and soot that accumulated over the winter.
Spring cleaning is still a ritual for many today. As people embark on their plans to tidy up, these tips can help them along.
Tackle one big task a day
Who hasn’t started one project only to be distracted into moving along to another room? This often occurs when people discover something out of place in one space and then move that item where it belongs, only to find a new cleaning task at hand in that space. Inefficiency can make you give up on spring cleaning prematurely. Agree to address one room/task a day. Keep a basket or box handy to store errant items until you move on to the next room.
Stock up on supplies
Prepare all of the cleaning supplies in advance. Put together a tool kit of sorts with the equipment you need, including mops, brooms, rags, cleansers, and the like. Organization can keep you on course.
Harness your strengths and weaknesses
Some people clean because they are stressed or angry, others do so to avoid other tasks. Keep personality in mind when establishing a cleaning schedule. For example, clean at night if you’re a night owl, or wait until you are feeling antsy before embarking on a “calm down cleaning.”
Tackle seasonal chores first
Some tasks need to get done to prepare for the spring and summer season. These may include cleaning the grill and sorting through outdoor furniture and decor. Spring cleaning may involve readying the pool for another year of use, or cleaning out rain gutters to prepare for spring storms. Tackle time-dependent tasks first and then move on to others that are less time-sensitive.
Spread out the work
Some people like to devote full weekends to spring cleaning, but that can be overwhelming for others. Breaking down cleaning tasks into 15- to 30-minute intervals each day can make the job more tolerable.
Photo Credit / Metro Creative Connection
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Is
my neighbor’s menagerie legal?
Q. My neighbor loves animals, so much that they have constructed little houses for feral cats and stray dogs. Although I haven’t said anything because we have a tall fence, and I don’t have to look at the menagerie of wildlife — including many ducks, squirrels and raccoons that also eat the food scraps my neighbor puts out — I wonder if this is allowed, and now that they’re starting to build very large bird “hotels” that I can see, I’m thinking this is really getting to be too much. Do they need approval to attract all of these animals, a permit or something?
A. There are restrictions, such as section 152-8 of Town of Hempstead code, prohibiting dogs at large. You can check your municipality code regulations, online, by typing in the name of your municipality followed by “ecode360.” Many communities restrict the number of pets and the containment of pets, and have a restriction that pets can’t be constrained for more than two hours to a stationary object, like a post.
Stray dogs and cats are prohibited, even though many people take care of them. I wrote about this 25 years ago, and received hate mail for my insensitivity to these cats and dogs, even though I was quoting the ordinances, in addition to writing about how to keep strays from wandering into your yard. If the strays become a problem for you, there are regulations that your neighbor may be subject to.
Birdhouses seem fairly innocent, and unless they’re built to an abundant size, like the “hotel” you describe, there are no limits. When there are a number of birdhouses, or they become large enough to fall under the regulation of treehouses and sheds, the regulations become relevant, and the construction of these “accessory structures” falls under the zoning codes. I’ve seen birdhouses with 25 units in them, which is large enough to make it necessary to regulate. It brings new meaning to Airbnb. I’m not sure if the local governments that placed prohibitions on renting out homes to transients also included the bird population, since most birds have no place to carry cash or a credit card, but it may be worth looking into in your spare time.
A call to either your local building inspector or to animal and wildlife control centers can confirm the handling of the animals, and whether your neighbor is creating a nuisance. The biggest concern may be health considerations, since some species may carry diseases that can be harmful to other species or to you. For example, raccoons, cats and squirrels are known to carry rabies, and an even more dangerous disease called toxoplasmosis. They endanger dogs in particularly, since these diseases cause ailments that can cripple or destroy their immune systems. Cats are also in danger, and the droppings from each of these animals may also cause sickness in humans, but to a lesser degree. You are not wrong to be concerned. Good luck!
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opinions Democrats put Nassau at risk by not passing Capital Plan
nassau County has enjoyed a lot of success during my time as county executive. Our residents have benefited from a notax-increase budget for three years straight, and I plan to deliver them a fourth. My administration cut $150 million in taxes planned by the previous administration. I hired over 300 new police and correctional officers to protect our streets.
And the county was named the most desirable place to live in all of New York state by Niche magazine.
But our county now faces a crisis that threatens to halt our growth and impede our progress. I am deeply disappointed and frustrated that the 2025 Capital Plan was not passed by the County Legislature. The plan, which is vital for the continued development and safety of all of Nassau, has been blocked by Democratic legislators who have refused to give it their bipartisan support. It is disturbing to witness such a politically motivated decision when it directly jeopardizes the welfare of our residents.
The implications of not passing the Capital Plan extend far beyond politics. I am very concerned about delaying funding for important public-safety ini-
tiatives. I am proud to say that Nassau County holds the title as the safest county in America, but we risk throwing that away and undermining the systems designed to protect our families and neighborhoods without the funding and resources guaranteed by the plan.
Under the negotiated proposal blocked by Democratic legislators, the plan would provide tens of millions of dollars in funding to secure essential tools for police officers who put their lives on the line to protect us. Those investments include:
■ $1.14 million for bulletproof vests
■ $1.1 million for tasers
■ $105,000 for upgraded firearms
Fals vehicle.
We also negotiated a six-figure investment in the Fire Service Academy Master Plan so that our volunteer firefighters get the best training available. Setting back that training by not passing the Capital Plan would be an egregious mistake by our Democratic legislators.
ailing to secure
this funding will hurt communities across the county.
■ $1.5 million for body cameras.
Support for our firefighters and emergency responders is also jeopardized while the Capital Plan stalls in the Legislature. For 2025 alone, we have millions of dollars budgeted for key items that include:
■ $3 million for new ambulances
■ $550,000 for new firefighting equipment and high-axle vehicles to save residents during floods
■ $500,000 to upgrade fire department communications system
■ $600,000 for a new hazardous-materi-
iOn top of spending on public safety, the Capital Plan also includes important initiatives aimed at improving the county’s infrastructure, including improvements that will improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. The hamlet of Elmont, for example, was scheduled to receive $2.7 million in traffic and pedestrian safety improvements that are now being blocked.
Another $1.5 million in similar improvements was slated for the Village of Lynbrook, at the five-way intersection at Hempstead Avenue.
Blocked.
We planned to spend $250,000 on traffic safety and pedestrian improvements for Merrick Road in Freeport.
Blocked.
You can see just how quickly the money adds up. Failing to secure this funding will hurt communities across the county if we don’t act now. We cannot afford indecision or crass political posturing when our taxpayers are relying on us. I am calling on our Democrat-
ic legislators to put aside politics and prioritize the well-being of Nassau County residents by passing the Capital Plan. It is time to focus on what truly matters — the safety and quality of life of our citizens.
I also urge county residents to make their voices heard. Contact your legislators, express your concerns, and advocate for the passage of the Capital Plan. Here is the contact information for the Democratic legislators who blocked the plan and put you at risk.
Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton
Phone: (516) 571-6211
Email: dderiggiwhitton@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Scott Davis
Phone: (516) 571-6201
Email: SDavis@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Olena Nicks
Phone: (516) 571-6202
Email: onicks@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Carrie Solages
Phone: (516) 571-6203
Email: csolages@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Seth Koslow
Phone: (516) 571-6205
Email: skoslow@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Debra Mulé
Phone: (516) 571-6206
Email: dmule@nassaucountyny.gov
Legislator Arnold Drucker Phone: (516) 571-6216
Email: adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov
Bruce Blakeman is Nassau County executive.
Why I still cheer like a kid for my teams
am 64 years old. I have lived a full life, raised a family, built a career and seen the world change in ways I never imagined. But when one of my favorite sports teams takes the field, I’m still a 12-year-old boy, heart pounding, stomach twisting, living and dying with every play or atbat.
A great touchdown catch or a clutch base hit still sends me into wild fist pumping. A botched play or a baffling coaching decision has me pacing the room, muttering in disbelief.
The baseball season just started, and I moaned about the Mets’ slow start in a sports text thread. One of my friends texted, “They’ve faced strong pitching.” I responded, “Aren’t they supposed to have a strong lineup and that Soto guy?” The same friend wrote: “It’s one week, calm down.”
When you’re a fan, calm isn’t your default state of mind. This isn’t a hobby — it’s a lifelong relationship. And like any deep, long-term commitment, it started early.
I still remember my first baseball game. I was 7, holding my father’s hand as we made our way through the crowded concourse of Yankee Stadium. Though I was a Mets fan, we went with family friends. The air smelled of hot dogs, beer and cigars.
s ports are a connection — to my childhood, to my dad, to my friends.
Two years later, I went to my first football game, also in Yankee Stadium. I’m a Giants fan, and on that October Sunday my dad and I watched Big Blue defeat the then St. Louis Cardinals. Sitting around us were football fans who held transistor radios to their ears so they’d know what penalty had been called and exactly where the ball was on the field. At the time, no planet-sized TV screen showed the previous play seconds after it ended.
Sports fandom isn’t just about watching games — it’s about the rituals, the
superstitions, the little things we do that make us feel like we’re part of something bigger. For me, it started with where I sat to watch at home. Every time my team was in the playoffs, I had to be in the same spot on the couch. Not just the same couch — the same spot on that couch.
Before the most recent two Super Bowls that the Giants played in (and won), I had to watch the movie “Friday Night Lights” two hours before game time. Was there any logical reason to believe that watching a film about high school football would influence the outcome of a Super Bowl? Of course not. But did I dare test my illogical theory by not watching it? Absolutely not. If you ask any true sports fan why they put themselves through the emotional rollercoaster of fandom, they’ll tell you the highs are worth the lows. And it’s true — when my team wins, when they pull off an improbable comeback or dominate their opponent, it’s
pure joy. The kind of joy that makes you jump up and down like a kid on his birthday.
But the lows? Oh, the lows hurt. A blown lead, a boneheaded play that costs the game, a gut-wrenching loss — they stay with you. You replay them in your head and commiserate about them with friends.
People who don’t follow sports don’t get it. They ask why I let a game played by people I’ve never met affect me so deeply. Or they ask whether I have a big bet on the game.
But it’s not just a game. It’s a connection — to my childhood, to my father, who took me to those first games, to my friends who have shared in the victories and defeats. It’s a constant in a world that constantly changes.
At 64, I’m not the same person I was at 12. But when my team takes the field, that kid inside me comes roaring back across the decades, full of hope, excitement and the unshakable belief that this time, maybe this time, we’ll win it all.
Jeffrey Bessen is the managing editor of Herald Community Media.
JEFFREY BEssEn
Have fun, and learn new skills, working for the town
imagine spending your summer outdoors, making new friends, gaining valuable experience, and even getting paid for it. For young people in the Town of Oyster Bay, a variety of exciting job opportunities offer just that — fun, meaningful work that builds skills for the future. Whether you’re looking to be a camp counselor, lifeguard, coach or referee, the possibilities for a rewarding summer are endless.
Those who enjoy working with kids and making a difference can apply to be counselors in the town’s Summer Recreation or Group Activities Program for developmentally disabled children and young adults. Counselors help plan activities, lead games, and foster a sense of community among campers. This role is perfect for those who thrive in dynamic environments and want to develop valuable skills such as leadership, communication and problem-solving.
Participants in the Summer Recreation Program take part in trips, tournaments, shows and athletic events, making it a great first job for many residents. More-experienced applicants can apply for coordinator, leader and assistant leader positions. The GAP program also offers roles for activities specialists with a degree in special education or experience working with those with special needs, as well as recreation aides starting at age 16. Both programs offer real-world experience while allowing counselors to make lasting memories and a real impact in their community.
Yand succeed is a reward in itself.
ou name the summer job, and we’ve got it, from counselors to lifeguards.
For young athletes eager to share their love of sports, the town is hiring basketball coaches and referees for the Summer Youth Basketball Program, as well as youth and adult tennis assistants. In these positions, individuals teach the fundamentals of the game while promoting teamwork and sportsmanship. Coaching not only helps develop leadership skills, but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants. Watching young athletes grow
Experienced swimmers as young as 15 can apply to be lifeguards at one of the town’s fantastic summer facilities. This role builds confidence, self-esteem and responsibility while providing a vital service to the community. Town lifeguards play a crucial role in keeping residents safe, and have saved countless lives in both pool and ocean waters. Lifeguarding also provides excellent training for those interested in careers in emergency response, health care or sports instruction. Those who qualify will have access to lifeguard certification courses, ensuring that they are fully prepared for this essential role.
Summer jobs aren’t just about filling time — they’re about gaining real-world experience that prepares young people for the future. Beyond the practical skills like leadership and teamwork, these roles help build confidence, independence and strong work ethics.
Employers and colleges look for candidates with hands-on experience, and summer employment in recreation is a standout addition to any resume. Many
former participants have gone on to successful careers in education, sports management and public service, crediting their summer job as a pivotal learning experience.
Beyond career benefits, summer employment is also about creating lifelong friendships and cherished memories. Many who work in these programs form bonds that extend well beyond the summer, staying in touch with colleagues and campers for years to come. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact, shaping young people into responsible and compassionate adults. The connections made during a summer job often open doors to future opportunities, whether through networking, mentorship or leadership growth.
If you know of enthusiastic and dedicated young people looking for a summer job, visit the Town’s website, oysterbaytown.com/parks, for more information. And if you’re one of them, whether you’re looking to keep swimmers safe, inspire young athletes or lead campers on summer adventures, there’s a role for you. Apply today and make this summer one to remember.
Joseph Saladino is supervisor of the Town of Oyster Bay.
A holiday homily: the family that ate its pets
Thus it came to pass, in the Land of Brooklyn, that Morris Brownstein knew Anna Brownstein, his second cousin, and they begat Hilda, Murray, Pearl and Zelda. Pearl, third in the family order, was my mother, and the only one who seemed to have entirely escaped the questionable legacy of having parents who were also blood relatives.
In the warm bosom of my mother’s nuclear family, accent on nuclear, Passover was a sacred time. Sacred not in a religious way, but in a culinary way. Grandma Annie and Grandpa Morris spared no effort in bringing to their four children an authentic holiday experience.
Perhaps the most cherished Brownstein family tradition was dining on homemade gefilte fish for the holiday. Let me digress. Gefilte fish (from the Yiddish word for “stuffed”) is an acquired taste. A cement-colored composite of various scaled fish, such as carp and pike and whitefish, mixed with
ground vegetables and matzo meal, it tastes like a fishy matzo ball. People eat it cold, with mouth-scorching horseradish to kill the taste.
When I say it is an acquired taste, I mean you had to be there at the beginning. Let’s see, it’s 5785 on the Hebrew calendar, so if you started eating gefilte fish two or three thousand years ago, you probably look forward to having it on the Seder table this year. You can’t just munch gefilte with no prior experience.
himself too thin.
Anyway, keeping the carp in the tub wasn’t without consequences for the Family Brownstein. First, since the carp was in the tub for some time, and there was only one bathtub, well, draw your own conclusions.
M y mother always wanted a kitten or a puppy, but learned to bond with a carp.
For her gefilte fish, Grandma Annie believed in going to the source, so she would buy a large, live carp and keep it in the bathtub for a week or two until it was time to ease it from its comfortable aquatic home into a grinder.
This was fish farming in its most primitive form. The business possibilities were not lost on young Murray, who was blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit. When he was 19, he considered buying up tens of thousands of bathtubs to raise carp. Unfortunately, at the time all his funds were tied up in a machine that made shoes out of sweet potatoes, and he didn’t want to spread
The second consequence of growing their own, so to speak, was that my mother, the most tenderhearted of the lot, immediately bonded with the carp. She had always longed for a kitten or a puppy, but her parents weren’t about to indulge her, so once a year she had what you might call a transitory experience in nurturing an animal. Granted, a carp isn’t much of a pet, but young Pearl had little else to call her own.
This was not what you would call a psychologically enlightened family. Since “Sesame Street” had not yet been created, Grandma would entertain her kids by taking them to the Canarsie slaughterhouse, where they would watch the chickens being killed. You can see why they didn’t worry much about young Pearl playing with the carp in the tub.
When the day came, a few days before Passover, Grandma was the designated
executioner. This was an interesting division of labor, since Grandpa Morris displayed distinct homicidal potential, having once chased a woman around a butcher shop with a knife after she insulted President Roosevelt. He was also enlisted in a civilian patrol, looking for submarines in Brooklyn, when he fell into a sidewalk hole and wasn’t found for days. But that’s another story.
Anyway, Grandma Annie, ignoring all pleas for clemency for the fish, would drain the tub and dispatch the carp with her cleaver. A day later, they set a beautiful table, and after a few prayers, devoured the fish, which lived on in its new incarnation — homemade gefilte fish swimming in its own aspic.
For dessert, Grandma made what came to be known as the Cake of Affliction, a 12-egg, foot-high sponge cake that, year after year, stuck to the pan, fell like a pancake instead of rising like a soufflé and broke our hearts. Times pass, and so do people. Rituals change. This Passover, my husband is the only one at the table who will eat gefilte fish. The Cake of Affliction isn’t on the menu. At today’s egg prices, the family sponge cake has become a highrisk investment.
Spring into the new season by volunteering
as the winter chill fades and the warmth of spring sets in, April presents us with the perfect opportunity to step out of our homes and into our communities. It is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the vital contributions of volunteers and encourage others to take part in acts of service. With the season’s longer days, there’s no better moment to embrace the spirit of giving, and making a difference.
Volunteering is more than just a noble act — it’s a powerful way to foster change, make personal connections and enhance our well-being. Whether you’re helping clean up a local park, mentoring a young student or lending a hand at a food bank, your contributions have a lasting impact. This month, let’s not only celebrate those who dedicate their time to service, but also join them in strengthening our communities.
National Volunteer Month highlights the invaluable role that volunteers play in shaping society. The best, most selfless volunteering isn’t confined to a single day or week; it’s an ongoing effort that promotes social responsibility, empathy and collective progress.
It also benefits the volunteer. Studies show that devoting time to helping others can reduce stress, combat loneliness and engender a sense of purpose. It helps people acquire new skills and build professional as well as social networks, and often opens doors to new career opportunities.
One of the best aspects of volunteering is its flexibility — there’s something for everyone. Whether you have a few hours to spare each month or can commit to a regular schedule, there are countless ways to contribute. Here are just a few examples:
■ Community cleanups: Help beautify
Thanks
for a
letters
young woman’s perspective
To the Editor:
Great places to lend a hand
American Red Cross, Long Island Chapter
195 Willis Ave. Mineola (516) 747-3500
RedCross.org/local/new-york
Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center
100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove (516) 571-8040
hmtcli.org
Island Harvest 126 Spagnoli Road, Melville (516) 294-8528 (631) 873-4775
IslandHarvest.org
Last Hope Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh (631) 425-1884
LastHopeAnimalRescue.org
Long Island Cares 10 Davids Drive, Hauppauge (631) 582-3663
LiCares.org
United Way of Long Island 819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park (631) 940-3700 UnitedWayLi.org
your local parks, streets and other community spaces by picking up litter, powerwashing sidewalks or planting flowers.
■ Animal welfare: Volunteer at an animal shelter or foster a rescue pet. The need for volunteers at these facilities has
I very much appreciated Jordan Vallone’s recent op-ed, “Some thoughts on books, privilege and girlhood.” As a lifelong reader, I think life is so much more enjoyable having a good book to read. Books are, in many ways, our teachers. Vallone’s emphasis on the importance of books for young women dealing with this complex and stressful world is so relevant. As I look back on my teaching career, I think we should have had more literature from a woman’s point of view, focusing on the situations and problems they had to face.
And thanks to Jordan for her book suggestions. I feel I should read some literature from the perspective of young
never been greater.
■ Educational support: Tutor a student, chaperone a school field trip or help out in your local library.
■ Food assistance: Work at a food pantry or take part in a meal delivery program. Lots of community members lend a hand during the holiday season, but here, too, volunteers can find plenty to do all year round.
■ Health care and support services: Visit a nursing home, assist hospital staff, or support a mental health initiative.
■ Environmental advocacy: Take part in a tree-planting effort, a recycling program or a sustainability project.
April is also Global Volunteer Month, celebrating the many ways people and organizations support their neighbors and strengthen their communities around the world. Volunteer Recognition Day, April 20, will kick off National Volunteer Week, April 20-26, a weeklong celebration of the efforts of volunteers. There are numerous opportunities this month to take part in events, campaigns and initiatives that need and will welcome your help. It’s a time to take action, and inspire others to do the same. And by getting children and young adults involved, we can help instill a lifelong commitment to service and civic responsibility. Whether through school programs or community projects, we can encourage the next generation to embrace the values of kindness, empathy, and community involvement.
If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, let the month that symbolizes renewal and growth be the time you take that first step. Whether you join a oneday event or dedicate a few hours a week, your contribution matters. Step outside, lend a hand and experience the joy of making a difference.
opinions No more excuses on county opioid funding
three years into nassau County Executive Bruce a. Blakeman’s administration, nearly $100 million in opioid settlement funds sits mostly untouched. Meanwhile, lives are being lost. The money is stuck in limbo — apparently with no urgency, no transparency and no plan emerging from his administration.
This is unacceptable. while families mourn and communities struggle, Blakeman’s inaction has left these critical funds collecting dust. it’s time for outside experts to step in and fix this mess.
The county’s opioid settlement funds came from lawsuits initiated by former County Executive Laura Curran against the distributors, manufacturers and retailers of addictive drugs. The funds were intended to support agencies providing treatment, prevention and recovery services on the front lines of this crisis. The most recent funds accepted by the County Legislature — $1.185 million in total — came from set-
tlements with shoprite supermarkets, Target and Henry schein inc.
Yet out of nearly $100 million, only $4.8 million has been spent. That is a shocking failure.
while Blakeman and his administration claim that $36 million is “encumbered” to various agencies, that’s just a fancy way of saying they’ve promised the money but haven’t delivered it. worse yet, they blame the service providers for failing to submit reimbursement claims quickly enough.
whave the ability to handle the distribution of these funds under its current leadership — and that agencies entrusted with distributing these funds should at least be consulting with experts in the field as they formulate a strategy.
e need pros to get these resources to where they belong.
That’s an insult to families fighting to save loved ones in the grip of addiction. “Help is on the way” means nothing when that help never arrives.
Under intense questioning by Legislator scott Davis and me during the Feb. 24 meeting of the Legislature, Department of Human services officials finally admitted that only $4.8 million has been spent to date — even though we had selected many of the intended recipients because of the county’s familiarity with their programs and trust in their leadership.
Their testimony and lack of results to date made it clear that DHs doesn’t
Letters
people growing up in 2025.
More power to her pride in being a woman, her seeing the importance of literature for young women and her having the talent to bring attention to women’s stories that deserve to be told and heard.
JiM Hawkins Baldwin
Why so much opposition to the president?
To the Editor:
spreading propaganda is an evil tool used to create anger, hysteria, rage and jealousy among unthinking people. This method was successfully used in n azi Germany in the 1930s. it encouraged book burning and k ristallnacht. i t appears very similar to Tesla burning and mob protesting against Jewish students at Columbia University.
w hen children are young, they are taught to obey their parents, because they are the adults. in a mob mentality, people behave very similar to children, because they are also told what to do, and encouraged to engage in destructive, harmful, irrational behavior. w hen those who attack our american citizens are released and defended by judges, whose civil rights are violated? Can judges overrule the president of the United states?
we need strong leadership to prevent civil disobedience and violence, and more credit must be given to President Trump, who was given this arduous task by a clear majority. w hy is there so much opposition?
PaT kinG Merrick
The Senate should not confirm D’Esposito
To the Editor:
Just how much confidence can we have in a failed congressman, a nthony D’Esposito, whose brief tenure was marked by slavish obeisance to the grossly unqualified President Trump (before he returned to office), and who now, ironically, Trump has appointed inspector general for the Labor Department, which the administration is eviscerating, after Trump has dismissed independent inspectors-general in more than a dozen such agencies?
The answer is a resounding, n ot a scintilla of trust!
More likely, like the multi-failed kari Lake in arizona, who lost races for both governor and senator but became Trump’s nemesis of the hugely successful Voice of america, D’Esposito is keeping a political profile for a return run for
after years of delays, the Legislature in February created a method for providers to submit applications, and authorized a maximum allocation of $1 million to bring in an outside firm to fix this disaster. i joined my fellow legislators in supporting the measure because we need professionals to cut through the confusion and get these lifesaving resources to where they belong. Had we known of the level of disorganization three years ago, we could have acted much sooner — but the administration would not admit that it was unable to adequately manage this critical task. its failure to come clean — a recurring problem with the administration — will have real-life consequences.
i have attended far too many funerals for young overdose victims, and know the heartbreak this crisis inflicts. addiction doesn’t discriminate — it
devastates families of all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, religion, sex or economic status. The catastrophic danger posed by the increasing presence of deadly fentanyl makes the stakes higher than ever before.
i regularly hear from families pleading for help, desperate for action. while we cannot undo the pain already inflicted, we can demand accountability. nassau’s opioid settlement funds must reach those in need without further delay, and it is my hope that hiring a qualified firm will help us fulfill this mandate.
Every life we lose to opioid addiction is one too many. i will continue to meet my responsibility as a fiduciary of the county by continuing to closely monitor the distribution of these funds, which are intended to be used in an efficient, impactful and serious manner. in memory of everyone we have lost and with the hope of reaching our neighbors who are struggling right now, i am committed to doing everything in my power to ensure that we maximize the positive impact of these resources as expeditiously as possible.
Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s Democratic minority leader.
Framework by Tim Baker
elective office.
They, along with the current administration, belong not to a (Pete) Hegseth “meritocracy,” but together form the gang that couldn’t shoot straight: incompetent, ignorant, intol-
erant and dangerous to our liberal democratic republic.
D’Esposito should be denied s enate confirmation.
asHEr MaTaTHias Woodmere
At Culinary Delights at the Mansion — Glen Cove
DeLia
DeriGGi-wHitton