First-timeWoodmere author honors late dog in book Districts track threats to federal school funding
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
The children’s literature community has welcomed its newest author, Aliza Brown, of Woodmere, and her book “Rocky’s Perfect Day.”
Born and raised in Cedarhurst, Brown has three kids, who inspired her passion for writing, and many pets. Her childhood dog, Rocky, sparked the book idea.
“Rocky is a King Charles cavalier and was one of my many dogs, and he actually lived into some of my adulthood,” Brown said. “He inspired me in many ways, as
most of my pets have. He was a little bit extra-special.”
Brown, 34, began working in the corporate world in 2015, selling intellectual property for nine years before transitioning into teaching last year. She now teaches remedial English at Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva High School for boys, in Woodmere.
“I found it to be so fulfilling, teaching the boys and watching them learn and grow,” Brown said, “and this book has been in the works prior to starting there.”
After she finished writing it, she encountered some difficulties as she tried to figure out
the illustrations, sizing and formatting, and how and where to publish it. She ended up selfpublishing through Amazon.
“I’m happy to say it finally came to fruition on Jan. 31,” she said. “It was published as an e-book, and it was published as a paperback on Feb. 5.”
Readers can order Brown’s book on Amazon, or find it at libraries in Atlantic Beach, Cedarhurst, East Rockaway, Hewlett, Island Park, Inwood, Lawrence, Lido Beach, Long Beach, Oceanside, Point Lookout and Woodmere — all, as it happens, in the 20th State Assembly District, which is represented by Aliza’s dad,
By BRIAN NORMAN bnorman@liherald.com
As President Trump aims to shut down the U.S. Department of Education, local educators and school officials are grappling with what the move could mean for funding, resources and the future of public education in their communities.
One of Trump’s longstanding campaign promises is to shutter the department. To do so, however, he would need an act of Congress, to undo what Congress created more than 45 years ago. The Department of Education was established in 1979, during President Jimmy Carter’s administration, as a cabinet-level agency. Its mission was to promote student achievement and equal access to education. According to the department’s website, its elementary and secondary programs now serve more than 50 million students in some 98,000 public schools and 32,000 private schools.
One of the main concerns among educators is the ConTinUED on PAgE 10
Assemblyman Ari Brown.
She is currently working on a deal with Barnes & Noble, and hoping to get involved in book fairs and festivals. She wants to write more books, and currently has a second one in development.
“I’m partly inspired by my pets, partly inspired by my children and their love for read -
ing,” Brown said.
She volunteers at BRAT Rescue — short for the all-in-fun name Bitches Rescuing Animals Together — in Far Rockaway, where she adopted two of her dogs.
“That’s part of the reason as to why I started writing as well,” Brown said, “and 10 per-
Herald file photo
Local school officials are keeping tabs on the goings-on in Washington, as President Trump vows to do away with the U.S. Department of Education. Above, Hewlett High School.
Nancy Zuckerman, wife of jeweler Michael Zuckerman, 65
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
Nancy Zuckerman, wife of Michael Zuckerman, owner of Michael’s Jewelry Designs, in Rockville Centre (formerly Marvin & Sons Fine Jewelry Watches and Gifts, in Cedarhurst) unexpectedly died at a New Year’s Eve party, she was 65.
She was born on Dec. 5, 1959 to Marion and Stanley Rolnick and grew up in North Woodmere where she attended Ogden Elementary School, Woodmere Middle School and ultimately graduated a year early from Hewlett High School as part of the Class of 1976.
Zuckerman went on to attend Hofstra University where she earned her bachelor’s degree and received her master’s from C.W. Post (now LIU Post). She was a special education teacher and eventually transitioned to assisting Michael at the jewelry stores.
Beginning in 2006, Zuckerman helped create Michaels Jewelry Designs into the luxury boutique it has become.
She spent her summers at Camp Blue Ridge in Equinunk, Pa., with her sisters Shari and Wendy. She was an All-Around Camper and camper Chief of the Grey Musketeers in 1974. Later, she remained active in their alumni network while her children and grandchildren attended the same camp.
Nancy, with her husband Michael Zuckerman at Little Maven in New York City, on Nov. 30. Her sudden passing occurred at a New Year’s Eve party, she was 65.
Zuckerman drew upon her profound passion for Judaism and charity by dedicating herself to the United Jewish Appeal and many great causes, such as research and awareness for diabetes and cancer. When her children were in grade school, Zuckerman was involved with the PTA and acted as a class mom. She also relished in her role-driving carpool and as snack-mom at soccer, Little League and other activities.
According to her husband, she had excellent taste when it came to fashion
and art culture.
“She loved to sing, dance and tell jokes and with her impeccable style, she lit up every room she was in, “ Zuckerman wrote in an email. “Nancy was simply the life of the party.”
Just as much as she enjoyed a good celebration, she adored down time with her family and enjoyed relaxing on the couch wearing comfy clothes, watching television and scrolling through social media.
“A remarkable lady who could do it all, she lived life to the fullest and had no regrets about how she lived it,” Zuckerman wrote.
One of her greatest joys was having her whole family get together.
Zuckerman helped create many joyful memories including times at the Woodmere Club, Clearwater Beach Club, in Atlantic Beach, tropical vacations and ski trips. She looked forward to hosting family at her home in Boca Raton, Florida just as her parents did before her.
According to Zuckerman, nothing compared to how much she cherished the time spent with
her grandchildren, she was their number one fan and never missed a game or a performance.
In addition to friends and family, she is survived by her husband Michael Zuckerman, their three children Brett, Ross and Sloane and their respective spouses Jill, Ariel and Justin (Bachman), along with her five grandchildren.
A funeral was held at Gutterman’s in Woodbury, on Jan. 5 where over 600 people attended and more than 1,000 people streamed live. She was buried at New Montefiore Cemetery in Farmingdale.
“She was the finest gem I ever held,” Zuckerman wrote.
fundraiser for Experience Camps — a nonprofit organization that hosts bereaved children at no cost to help them grieve and build their coping resources.
The Zuckerman family is asking for donations to be made in her honor to Experience Camps — a nonprofit organization that hosts bereaved children at no cost to help them grieve and build their coping resources. All funds raised will directly support the “PennEx” program, hosted by Nancy’s camp and Alma mater. To make a contribution, you can donate at: https://give. experiencecamps.org/fundraiser/5990792 or scan the QR code.
Courtesy Brett Zuckerman
Courtesy Brett Zuckerman Above is a direct link to the family’s
Hewlett junior clinches title in stock market competition
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
Hewlett High School is bringing Wall Street to the classroom with the Stock Market Club.
Junior Jacob Yamen secured the state champion spot in the Stock Market Game by closing out the competition with $220,466.72 in earnings.
The Stock Market Game is an educational contest where students are given a virtual portfolio and tasked with making investments in real-world stocks, bonds and mutual funds.
Their goal is to grow the portfolio over a set period while using knowledge of the market, economic trends and strategic thinking.
Last year when Yamen joined the club, he didn’t monitor the game as closely as he did this year and ultimately decided he wanted to take it more seriously.
“My plan is to major in business management and that’s why right now my goal is to do as many business centric things that I can while in high school,” Yamen said.
His favorite part about being a member of the club is being able to discuss trades with his friends during the school day.
“It’s almost like friendly competition between your friends as well,” he added.
Jared Pittelli oversees the 34-member club and helps them register for the fall
Jared Pittelli, stock market club adviser, left, Jacob Yamen, stock market game winner and Joseph Virgilio, business and computer science chairman at Hewlett High School congratulated Yamen on winning the stock market game competition.
and spring competitions, distribute the accounts and make sure all the students are signed up and able to trade.
“In addition, when we have students who are interested, I like to encourage them to give a small presentation about their view of the stock market and what approaches they like to use,” Pittelli wrote in an email. “We did this a lot with our last three time champion, Josh Sepe, who graduated last year.”
Pittelli also brings up current events that he feels could play a role in the mar-
ket and allows for discussion and debates led by the students.
“I try not tell them ‘pick this, or pick that’ it’s really supposed to be an experience where they are ultimately responsible for their choices, “ he wrote. “It’s the best way to learn how the market works without risking real money. The club continues to grow in popularity and I am really enjoying seeing all their enthusiasm.”
Yamen beat out over 4,000 teams in all of New York state and the next closest
competitor closed out at $186,687.48.
“This accomplishment by Jacob is quite impressive, everyone starts out with $100,000 and invests it as they see fit,” Pittelli wrote. “He secured our fourth competition win in a row with his earnings.”
He also discusses an overview of what is going on in the world.
“Some days the kids come and are locked in on their research and reading, and Jacob made a few smart moves that worked out,” he wrote. “I think he has a bright future ahead.”
Yamen did not start out with the “most precise strategy” and originally invested in five stocks. After not seeing much growth, he started to take the game more seriously and completely changed his mindset.
“You’re told to diversify your portfolio and you have to see the game through this outlook, because you want to make the most amount of money in the least amount of time possible,” he explained. “I sold most of my stocks early on and them focused most of my funds into two different companies and that’s pretty much how I won. I used a couple of different sites, looked at market trends and I was targeting my funds.”
“It’s a fantastic way to learn about investing, financial literacy and the complexities of the global economy, all while having fun,” Hewlett High School posted on Facebook. “Way to go, Jacob we’re so proud of you!”
Fifth graders showcase STEM skills in annual competition
By BRIAN NORMAN bnorman@liherald.com
Fifth grade students showed off their math and science abilities at the annual STEM (science, technology, math and engineering) Student Showcase at Hewlett Elementary School.
For the third consecutive year, students were asked to combine their knowledge of volume equivalent fractions and computer aided design, to create a building for the community.
Each student was split into groups of four, for the Feb. 7 showcase with each student being assigned a specific role. There was a project manager, a lead mathematician, a computer aided design dafter and a landscape architect.
The project also combined STEM and math classes and required students to create a figure made up of two rectangular prisms, with one prism being double the volume of the other.
Carole Kreisberg, a Hewlett Elementary math teacher, explained the project and noted the students’ enthusiasm to create something because of connections to the community.
“This is an interdisciplinary project with math and stem the students have been studying concepts of volume and fractions, and they’ve applied that to this project in their STEM class.” Kreisberg said. “The reason that kids are so motivated is because real life applications. So they made a lot of con-
nections through their own lives and through their math and STEM classes.”
Each group tried to create a building in the community, such as a hospital, movie theater and restaurants. There were 27 buildings made by the students using the four school 3D printers.
Kristina Gallagher, a Hewlett Elementary STEM teacher, said seeing how eager the students were to work on this project and now finally present was very exciting to see.
“It’s pretty awesome because they are fully invested,” Gallagher said. “Every student is eager and willing to share and present what they have learned and
the design process. So just the enthusiasm and the excitement, and they get to see the buildings, printed straight in the classroom. That’s very exciting.”
This year was the first year that the students were judged on their work. Members from the Board of Education were invited to come and judge the students based on their application of math and science.
Dina Anzalone, the assistant superintendent for Teaching, Learning & Technology, was one of the judges for this year’s event, and said she was pleased to see such a mixed bag of students be able to succeed in this year’s showcase.
“I asked the two teachers if the discovery kids, or the gifted and talented students were in every group, I wanted to know the composition of the groups,” said Anzalone, the former principal of Ogden Elementary School. “I was thrilled because yes, there was discovery kids in the groups but there was also students with disabilities and there were ENL students as well, it was so impressive that every group contains such a mixed bag of kids.”
The winners of the STEM showcase were announced at the Feb. 12 board meeting.
Brian Norman/Herald
Teachers, Students and Parents, gathered at Hewlett Elementary School on Feb. 7 for the annual STEM Showcase.
Brian Norman/Herald For their STEM project, Elizabeth Khaykin, left, Mira Pan and Adrian Kanzfer recreated a post office.
Courtesy Jared Pittelli
Escaping the Holocaust: Kindertransport, stories of resilience
By Harley Moritz & Romy Fruman Special to the Herald
The Kindertransport, a series of rescue efforts that transported Jewish children from Nazi Germany and Austria to Britain between 1938 and 1940, remains a poignant testament to human compassion in the face of unimaginable horror. We had the privilege of interviewing Manfred Korman, a 94 -year-old resident of Great Neck, who shared his harrowing yet hopeful experience as a Kindertransport child.
Mr. Korman recounted how his family, caught in the escalating anti-Jewish policies of Nazi Germany, was forced to flee their home and found themselves stranded in a makeshift encampment on the German-Polish border. His mother, working tirelessly for survival, learned about the Kindertransport — a lifeline for children facing imminent danger. Though heartbreaking, the decision was made to send young Manfred, just 7 years old, and his older brother, Gerd, then 11, on the perilous journey to safety in England.
Their journey was fraught with uncertainty. They traveled with other frightened children, including 7-yearold Joseph, forming unlikely bonds of friendship in the face of fear. Arriving in England just a week before the outbreak of World War II, they were placed with a foster family who, with remarkable generosity, also took in Joseph. The children were then evacuated to the
countryside to live with the Gosling family, a childless mother and daughter who welcomed them with open arms.
To imagine sending your 4-year-old child alone on a perilous journey to a foreign country, with the very real possibility of never seeing them again, is almost incomprehensible. It’s a testament to the desperate circumstances faced by these families that such a heart-wrenching decision had to be made. The courage and resilience of these children, forced to face such unimaginable separation at such young ages, are truly awe-inspiring.
Despite the separation from their parents, Manfred and his brothers found solace in the kindness of their foster families and the support of Mr. Cohn, a Jewish teacher who helped them maintain their cultural identity. Tragically, their grandparents and an uncle perished. Miraculously, both Mr. Korman’s parents survived the horrors of concentration camps. After the war, they made their way to the United States and, with immense relief and joy, were able to send for their sons. Manfred and Gerd were reunited with their parents in America, a testament to the enduring power of hope and the strength of family bonds.
We also had the opportunity to learn about the experiences of Suse Rosenstock, another Kindertransport child, through her daughter, Elaine Peizer. Suse’s story echoed the themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power
The Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)
For those who don’t qualify for long-term care insurance or can’t afford it, the Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”) can protect your assets from the high cost of long-term care in your home or in a facility.
The MAPT sets up two roadblocks that Medicaid cannot break through. First, you cannot be your own trustee. Usually, one or more of the adult children act as trustee.
Secondly, you, as the creator of the MAPT, are entitled to the income only, not the principal. If you don’t have access to the principal (your home or other assets in the trust), then Medicaid doesn’t have access to the principal. The MAPT makes good sense for assets you’re not going to spend –like your home and investments you’re not using. As we often say, if you don’t need it to live on, then why not protect it for your family instead of losing it to pay for long-term care.
When you apply for Medicaid for nursing home care, if you’ve transferred any assets in the past five years, you are ineligible. The full protection of the trust only takes place five years
after you establish the trust. This is why you want to plan ahead. Proposed new rules, often delayed but constantly looming, would also require you to have the MAPT in place two and half years in advance to be eligible for care in your own home.
The MAPT does not affect your lifestyle. You still receive your pension, social security checks, minimum distributions on your retirement plans, interest and dividends. You have the exclusive right to use and enjoy your home. You keep all your property tax exemptions. You can sell your house, buy a new one, or invest the proceeds, which remain in the trust, still protected.
The MAPT is also flexible. You can change trustees and you can change who you leave it to.
Although the MAPT is an irrevocable trust, not only does it have the flexibility mentioned above, but in New York there is a mechanism to revoke an irrevocable trust. All that is required is for all parties, you and your children, to sign. We even have a workaround just in case one of the children refuses to sign.
of human kindness. Her mother, faced with the impossible choice of which child to send to safety, made a heartwrenching decision.
Both Mr. Korman and Suse Rosenstock’s experiences serve as powerful reminders of the importance of compassion, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. As Elaine Peizer eloquently stated, drawing on her mother’s wisdom, “Hate should never be tolerated, but life is more precious.” Rosenstock’s grandmother often imparted the valuable advice: “Remember the past, live in the present, look to the future.”
To honor the memory of the approximately 10,000 children saved by the Kindertransport, we encourage readers to participate in a simple yet meaningful project. Create a single wooden clothespin, painted or decorated in any way you choose. Each clothespin will symbolize one of these brave children and a “track” on the train that carried
them to safety. Send your decorated clothespin to Woodmere Middle School. When we reach 10,000 clothes pins, we will create a collective display to commemorate the lives saved by this extraordinary act of compassion. These words serve as a poignant reminder to cherish each day and strive for a future where such atrocities are never repeated.
Woodmere Middle School eighth graders Harley Moritz and Romy Fruman are creating a documentary to preserve Korman’s story for their National History Day project. They were inspired by the documentary “Paper Clips”.
Send Kindertransport clothespins to: Moritz-Fruman
132 Franklin Place
P.O Box 10
Woodmere, NY 11598-1200
Courtesy Tara Waltman
Harley Moritz, left, Manfred Korman and Romy Fruman, at Korman’s home on Nov. 21. Moritz and Fruman interviewed Korman on being a Kindertransport Holocaust survivor.
MIKE KONDYRA
MacArthur Senior Basketball
A THREE-YEAR STARTER looking for his first AllCounty selection, Kondyra reached a milestone Jan. 27 in MacArthur’s 79-72 defeat to Long Beach. As part of a 42-point performance, he recorded her 1,000th career point. He hit seven three-pointers in what was his third 40-plus point game of the season. The AllConference honoree in 2023-24 iis averaging 25 points per game this winter to rank among Nassau County’s top five scorers.
GIRLS WRESTLING
NASSAU COUNTY CHAMPIONS
Tyasia Buxton, V.S. Central, 94 pounds
Harley Eidens, Long Beach, 100
Presley Eidens, Long Beach, 107
Gabrielle Severin, Bethpage, 114
Haley Gonzales, Hicksville, 120
Olivia Rausenberger, MacArthur, 126
Taylor Brock, Kennedy, 132
Jessica Marzano, Bethpage, 138
Gabriella Schechtman, Kennedy, 145
Keishara Tulloch, Uniondale, 152
Isabella Steffa, Seaford, 165
Eyslin Turcios, V.S. North, 185
Naomi Gonzalez, V.S. North, 235
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Girls wrestling takes center stage
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
History was made Feb. 2 when Nassau County hosted its first-ever girls’ wrestling tournament at Bethpage High School with more than 100 entrants from over 20 districts.
Champions were crowned in 13 weight classes, ranging from 94 to 235 pounds, before a jam-packed crowd. Uniondale had the largest contingency with 22 participants as coach Tim Godoy said interest exploded after fall sports concluded.
“It’s been a really fun season and this tournament is great to see,” Godoy said. “I recruited some kids I coach in soccer and badminton and it just kind of took off from there. Last year we had two girls wrestling. By the end of the first week of practice this November, we had 30.”
Bethpage coach Sean Severin coordinated the one-day tournament and was thrilled to see everything run smooth. His daughter, Bethpage junior Gabrielle, captured the
Kennedy senior Gabriella Schechtman, who competed for MacArthur’s team, won the title at 145 pounds.
114-pound title which made a historic day that much more special.
“I was super happy with how good the event turned out,” Sean Severin said. “It drew a really big crowd and the girls brought the energy. It’s going to be a great stepping stone for the growth of the sport in Nassau County.”
Long Beach, which for more than four decades has fielded one of the premier wrestling programs in the county, has four girls competing this season including eighth-grade twins Presley and Harley Eidens. All four made the finals with the Eidens’ both winning championships.
“This is unbelievable opportunity for all the female wrestlers in Nassau,” said Long Beach coach Ray Adams, whose daughter, Reese, competes for Calhoun but missed her junior season with a knee injury that required surgery. “Our youth program, the Gladiators, started a girls program a few years ago and it keeps growing,” he said.
Adams credited 2020 graduate Lina Diamond with being the trailblazer for the budding Long Beach girls program. Presley Eidens, who also plays lacrosse and volleyball, said she started wrestling about two-and-ahalf years ago and grapples with her sister every day in practice. Freshmen Arianna Balsamo (152) and Sofia Calle (165) are also workout partners. “They’ve all improved every match,” Adams noted.
Valley Stream Central junior Tyasia Buxton said she joined wrestling to bring additional discipline into her
life. She just took up the until four months ago but has come a long way in a short time, coach Chris Carbajal said. Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.
“Really proud of her,” Carbajal said. “She made a commitment and stuck to it all season.”
Buxton credits a good deal of her success to scraping against boys almost exclusively this season. “I’ve taken my losses, but I learned a lot and I’m better for it,” she said. “It feels great to win. I gave it my all and didn’t give up.”
Lynbrook junior Dani Zhanay is one of the county’s most-experienced wrestlers. She’s been competing for eight years, coach Rich Renz said, after starting with the Titans youth league. “She loves competing and has a lot of skill,” Renz explained.
Uniondale sophomore Brianna Marquez is one of a
handful of soccer players who decided to give wrestling a try at the urging of Godoy. She was runner-up to Presley Eidens at 107. The Knights crowned one champion — sophomore Keishara Tulloch at 152.
“All the girls are amazing and the wrestling community has been really supportive,” Marquez said. “We all push each other harder every day. It’s definitely something I can see myself continuing to do.”
Valley Stream North crowned a pair of champs with juniors Eyslin Turcios winning at 185 and Naomi Gonzaez emerging victorious at 235. Kennedy saw senior Gabriella Schechtman win at 145 and eighth-grader Taylor Brock finish first at 132. All 13 county champs along with six second-place finishers advance to the girls state tournament Feb. 27 in Albany.
Terry Uellendahl/Herald photos Valley Stream Central’s Tyasia Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.
HERALD SPORTS
Hewlett wins conference, fourth in county
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
On heels of winning a conference title three weeks earlier, the Hewlett girls’ track & field team exceeded expectations on the county stage.
The Bulldogs raced to a fourth-place finish at the Nassau Class B championships held at St. Anthony’s High School in Huntington on Feb. 5. Longtime coach Stephen Honerkamp said the finish was a solid one considering it was a younger team that went into the event short-handed due a conflict with school band trip to Disney World that same day.
“We ended up with a pretty young team so it has been a lot of learning and teaching during the year and we have been trying to keep it fun and have a good time and then they really started competing well,” Honerkamp said. “We had a lot of good performances at counties.”
Hewlett totalled 56 points to finish just seven behind third place Manhasset. The team was missing a portion of the roster due to the Disney trip, but some opted to still take part and head to
Orlando later on, according to Honerkamp
Sophomore Valeria Paez shined in the counties with a first place showing in the 1,000 meters. She edged out Manhasset’s Madeleine Quinlan by 1.3 seconds in a-come-from-behind triumph
“She was boxed in a little bit and was patient and then she ran these two girls down on the last straightaway, which with indoors there isn’t a lot of room,” Honerkamp said. “This girl is all heart and guts and she does everything right.”
Junior Maree Drayling also won a county title in the pole vault after finishing second in the event last two years.
Senior Maeve Williams was another star performer in the field events with a second place performance in the weight throw. Sophomore Janee Llanos places third in the triple jump with a personal best leap to also key the ream’s strong county performance.
Hewlett’s solid finish in the counties came after conquering the Conference IV championship on Jan. 13 at St. Anthony’s by edging out Manhasset and
South Side. Paez played an instrumental role in the title by winning the 600 meters event. Drayling also won the pole vault with teammate Jayden Yochai placing second.
The conference crown marked Hewlett’s 50th total championship in program history for both the indoor and outdoor track seasons. Honerkamp, who is in his 29th year as head coach, said the success underscores the deep commitment his runners and field event athletes have displayed over the decades.
“We’ve probably won more championships than almost every other program put together so I think it says a lot about our program and our dedication,” Honerkamp said. “We’ve had a lot of this great kids that came through our program and a lot of kids that competed in college.”
Honerkamp has high hopes for the upcoming outdoor season where he will likely have a bigger roster to work with. The team will have added motivation for success with Hewlett set to host the county championships for the first time on May 19.
Derrick Dingle/Herald Sophomore Valaria Paez paced the Bulldogs in the Nassau Class B championship meet by winning the 1,000-meter race.
Hewlett High School senior Matthew DeCicco shined as both a quarterback in football and as a runner for the indoor and outdoor track and field teams.
Matthew DeCicco shines as dual-sport leader, scholar
By BRIAN NORMAN
LAWRENCE DISTRICT 15 NON-PUBLIC SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION AND TEXTBOOK REQUESTS
All requests for textbooks and transportation to non-public schools for the 2025-2026 school year must be filed by April 1, 2025.
Renewals and change of schools must be made online at: https://www.lawrence.org/o/registration
APRIL 1 IS THE DEADLINE TO APPLY
New registrants must file in person by April 1st, 2025. Appointments must be made at least 24-hours in advance. Call our office at (516) 295-7065 or e-mail Transportation@Lawrence.k12.ny.us to schedule an appointment.
Procedures and required documents for registration can be found on the transportation and registration website at: https://www.lawrence.org/o/registration 1290840
bnorman@liherald.com
Hewlett High School’s senior Matthew DeCicco has built a reputation as one of the school’s top athletes, leading the football team as its captain and quarterback while also earning multiple awards in track and field.
DeCicco has been a varsity football player for the past two seasons and a member of the varsity indoor and outdoor track and field teams for all four years of his high school career.
Originally set on football, joining the middle school team in seventh grade and becoming the starting quarterback in eighth, DeCicco was hoping to pursue a collegiate career in the sport.
In an effort to better himself as a football player, he joined both the indoor and outdoor track and field teams to stay conditioned during the offseason. DeCicco said that decision changed his athletic career path and help him develop a new passion.
“I loved football, and I always wanted to play college football,” DeCicco said. “Then after ninth grade, I thought, ‘All right, I want to try to make the varsity team next year. What can I do to get better? I decided to run track to try to get faster for football, and I wound up falling in love with track. I saw how much hard work you could put in and what you get out of it.”
He hit the ground running immediately in his first season of indoor track and field, ending the season as the No. 1 freshman in the 55-meter-high hurdle race in New York state.
DeCicco was also a member of the outdoor track and field team his freshman year, where he competed and placed at the all-county qualifiers meet, which head coach, Eamon McHugh, called “almost unheard of. ”
Since then, DeCicco has gone on to win numerous awards in track and
field, including multiple all-county honors, which includes an all-county championship for the 55-meter-hurlde race on Feb. 5.
Last season he went on to place fourth in the state for the hurdles race and place tenth overall at the national level in the pentathlon, which consists of five track and field events over a twoday period.
McHugh said that he noticed DeCicco’s passion for track very early on and seeing his growth and dedication has helped him to reignite his own passion for the sport.
“He’s actually reinvigorated my passion for the sport because it kind of plateaus after 30 years of coaching,” McHugh said. “His passion for it kind of reignited my initial passion. That’s one of the key things that stands out about Matt more than anything else — his work ethic and being a student of the sport is unparalleled to anyone else I’ve ever coached.”
DeCicco has not only been a leader on the field but in the classroom as well. Head football coach and Health and Physical Education teacher, John Palladino, a Hewlett physical education teacher who is the head football coach of the varsity Bulldogs, referred to him as “mature beyond his years, and a great student in the classroom.”
Palladino also added what a tremendous player DeCicco is on the football field, and although he will pursue a career in track and field in college, Palladino said that it was a pleasure to coach him on the turf as well. Which college to attend remains unclear.
“There were some games where it felt like I had the privilege of watching him play,” Palladino said. “He was an absolute pleasure to coach; he was one of those kids that you knew was never going to miss and he was always going to be in school the next day and always do the right thing.”
Courtesy Matthew DeCicco
Childhood pet inspires new author’s tale
cent of the (book’s) proceeds will be donated to BRAT Rescue to continue the lifesaving efforts that our rescue does through the founder, Christine Drakatos.”
Drakatos, who has known Brown for seven years, said she is extremely honored to be a beneficiary of her book proceeds. “Aliza is the best person I know — she is such a giving person, and lives to help everybody,” Drakatos said. “She is always thinking of us and the rescue.”
The proceeds from “Rocky’s Perfect Day” will go toward treats for the dogs, and veterinary care.
Aliza’s mother, Sandra Brown, has supported her passion from day one, and remembers the special bond between her and Rocky.
“Aliza has always had a great love for animals,” Sandra said. “She took amazing care of Rocky from such a young age. Aliza started this project a while ago, while balancing children and a fulltime job. I’m immensely proud of her for seeing this wonderful children’s book to fruition.”
Alongside Rocky, Brown grew up with two cats, Kitty and Reggie, a poodle, Lenny, and later on she adopted two Chihuahuas, Stellie and Ruby. They all make cameos in her book — which, she said, she wrote in a single day, in the summer of 2021, a year after Rocky died.
“His calm, gentle nature despite his medical problems taught me to be resilient — he really taught me from a young age,” Brown said. “I model myself, real-
ly in a lot of ways, after him because of that. My love for animals grew that much more for having him.”
“Rocky’s Perfect Day” is a gentle, lighthearted story that can be read to infants and young toddlers. “It teaches them the joys of having animals, young
friendship, camaraderie, and it’s just following them throughout their day as they go play together,” she said. “It ends with them coming home, settling in, having quiet time.”
Brown said she wanted to write a book she knew her children would
enjoy, and that highlighted animals’ admirable qualities.
“I hope it brings interests for kids to think about animals as friends and beings that we should look out for and take care of,” Brown said. “We should really treasure them in our lifetime, because, unfortunately, we don’t have them for so long, and the more we give to them, the more we attach ourselves to them, the better it makes our lives.”
Local funding at risk as Trump targets DOE
potential loss of Title I funding if the department is shut down. The federal Title I program provides financial support to schools with high percentages of low-income students. Despite ongoing concerns about how money is distributed and how results are measured, the program has had bipartisan support over the years, with Republicans and Democrats alike recognizing the need to address the nation’s educational inequalities.
Debra Sheinin, president of the Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education, said that district administrators are monitoring the situation in Washington closely.
“The most immediate concern would be the loss of Title I funding, which currently supports two of our districts buildings, as well as reductions in special-education funding,” Sheinin said. “However, these programs could be transferred to another agency’s oversight, so given that uncertainty, I think it’s important to monitor the situation closely before making any assumptions about the long-term impact.”
According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 93 percent of school districts in the United States use
Title I funding to support low-income students.
Rachel Kreiss, president of the Lawrence Teachers Association, also shared her concerns about the future of the Title I program, saying that school staffing could take a hit if the program ended with the disbanding of the DOE.
“A large majority of our population benefits from having Title I,” Kreiss said. “In terms of funding, for any school district, if federal funding starts to get cut, it does play a part in not only the education, but the staffing of people. There are people who work in districts who work under Title I money.”
Other programs overseen by the department could also be at risk of cancellation or being or moved to another federal agency. Among them are specialeducation programs and those supported by Individuals with Disabilities Education Act grants, which, with a loss of federal oversight, could leave states to determine how to support students with disabilities. The uncertainty extends to Pell Grants and federal student loans, which help millions of low- and middleincome students afford college.
The department has long been something of a lightning rod for criticism. In the 1980s, President Ronald Reagan talk-
ed of eliminating it as a cabinet agency. Trump proposed abolishing it during his first term, nearly a decade ago, and during his latest campaign for president in 2023, he released a video saying that he looked to do so early in his second term, claiming that despite pouring trillions of dollars into education, the country ranked “last” in education. According to EssayHub.com, however, the United States ranks 13th in the world in education, and is home to 11 of the world’s top 20 universities.
To close the Department of Education, the support of a supermajority in the Senate — 60 out 100 senators — would be required. In 2023, a vote in the House of Representatives on amending a House rule to abolish the department failed to pass, when 60 Republicans joined all of the Democrats in opposing the measure.
New York state has shown its support for the department, crediting its extensive efforts to protect and prioritize historically neglected students. The State Education Department, commenting on Trump’s recent executive orders, stated, “We denounce the intolerant rhetoric of these orders. Our children cannot thrive in an environment of chaos; they need steady and stable leadership that we
Many local school districts rely on Title I funding, which could be affected if President Trump succeeds in disbanding the Department of Education.
will endeavor to provide.”
Have an opinion on the president’s plans for the Department of Education? Send a letter to mberman@liherald.com.
Melissa Berman/Herald
ConTInuED froM PagE 1
“rocky’s Perfect Day” features all of aliza Brown’s pets, and showcases their daily life as friends.
Photos courtesy Aliza Brown aliza Brown, of Woodmere, has published her first children’s book, “rocky’s Perfect Day.” It is available for purchase on amazon, and will soon hit local libraries.
Legislators sue over county’s ‘illegal militia’
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Nassau County Democratic legislators and civil rights attorneys filed a lawsuit against the county last week, branding County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of special sheriff’s deputies an “illegal militia.”
“Bruce Blakeman’s militia is not about public safety — it’s political theater at the expense of Nassau County residents,” Legislator Seth Koslow, ranking member of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, said. “There is no justification for creating an unaccountable and illegal force that answers only to the county executive.”
Legislator Scott Davis criticized the measure as unnecessary, citing Nassau’s ranking as one of the safest counties in the country, and called for an increase in properly trained law enforcement officers as an alternative to the volunteer deputy program. The county currently employs over 2,500 officers who have undergone rigorous training.
In the event that the county’s existing law enforcement and crisis volunteers are insufficient, the county has the ability to call for assistance from law enforcement agencies in neighboring counties.
The lawsuit alleges that the county’s application process for the program requires minimal qualifications, including ownership of a pistol license and no
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald
Democratic Nassau County legislators filed a lawsuit in State Supreme Court last week against the county and County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a special sheriff’s deputy program. Legislators Carrié Solages, far left, Scott Davis, Seth Koslow, Debra Mulé, Arnold Drucker and Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton gathered to announce the suit on Feb. 5.
“misdemeanor convictions within the previous five years.” For each day of activation during an emergency, a volunteer would receive a stipend of $150, which exceeds the hourly rate of pay limit that deputies may receive without legislative approval.
The lawsuit cites a Newsday investigation that found that 25 people had enlisted in the program as of last Sep-
tember, six of whom were not able to be found through background checks. The plaintiffs allege that the county’s program appears to require significantly less training than its regular police training.
Carey Dunne, an attorney from the Free and Fair Litigation Group, argued that this poses a risk to the general public.
“County Executive Blakeman’s mili-
tia endangers public safety in Nassau County and the health of our democracy nationwide,” Dunne said. “Our lawsuit alleges an authoritarian power grab in the heart of suburban America. We cannot let the abuse of executive power go unanswered.”
Legislator Debra Mulé alleged that special sheriff’s deputies are an illegal group that should not be funded with taxpayer money, and that the county executive should be compelled to comply with public record laws.
“We filed formal Freedom of Information Law requests to get answers, and Blakeman ignored them,” Mulé said. “Even the county budget hides how much money is being funneled into this program. If this militia is such a great idea, why is he hiding it from the public?”
Blakeman is the first defendant in the case, alongside Nassau County Sheriff Anthony LaRocco. Blakeman was adamant in his opposition to the lawsuit and his support of the volunteer unit.
“Debra Mulé and Scott Davis are a disgrace for bringing this frivolous action and defaming the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement, who have agreed to pitch in in the event of an emergency,” Blakeman said in a statement. “The antisemitic statements, denigrating these good citizens by labeling them as Nazi brownshirts, disqualify them for public service.”
By Danielle Schwab
GOUT
Friends
of the Brothers
Dinosaurs and epic roars
Dig into the mysteries of our favorite
et ready to embark on Jurassic Quest, one of the largest immersive dinosaur experiences in North America. The traveling prehistoric adventure, which combining archaeology with the latest tech, returns to Nassau Coliseum with its herd this weekend, Feb. 15-17.
Journey back 165 million years — to a time when mighty dinos ruled the Earth. The arena transforms into the TriassicJurassic and Cretaceous periods with life-like dinosaurs to observe and interact with during, that’s sure to spark the imagination.
“We bring dinosaurs to people in a way that’s fun, interactive and educational that you can’t find anywhere else,” says Jurassic Quest dinosaur expert Sarah Menard, better known as “Safari Sarah,” one of the expert “dino trainers.”
“You can go to a museum to see dinosaurs, but you’re only going to see fossils. You’re going to see educational things, but it’s not going to be as interactive or fun as maybe bouncing on a giant dinosaur inflatable would be,” she says.
There are plenty of opportunities to dig into the excitement. Hop on rideable dinosaurs, engage in hands-on science and art activities, enjoy thrilling dinosaur shows, observe real-life artifacts — and that’s only the start.
All of this — enhanced by carefully chosen vegetation, immersive sound effects, dynamic lighting, and interactive electronics — will make you feel like you’ve truly stepped into another time.
“One of my favorite things to see is whenever kids walk in their jaws drop, and then their parents walk in right after them and they do the same exact thing,” Safari Sarah adds.
Expect to see all your favorite dinos and meet new ones, including the formidable Triceratops, towering longnecks, fierce raptors, and of course, the infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex — standing proud at 20 feet tall as the ultimate apex predator.
prehistoric pals
• Feb. 15-16 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Feb. 17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Tickets start at $22 (Use code QUEST15 for 15 percent off admission); available at jurassicquest.com or on-site
• Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike Uniondale
where they can channel their
where they can channel their inner paleontologist, and study replicated and real fossils like T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn and life-size dino skull.
“They can learn not only how fossils are made, but they can make fossils themselves, and at the end of the day, they get to walk away with a dinosaurshaped fossil,” Safari Sarah says.
On display, you’ll find real artifacts like Megalodon and dinosaur teeth, horseshoe crabs, and maybe even a dinosaur skull.
Friends of the Brothers returns to the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers. Their powerful celebration featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show “Lackawanna Blues.” Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years while singer/guitarist Alan Paul is the author of “One Way Out,” the definitive, best-selling Allman Brothers biography based on 25 years of reporting on and interviewing the band. Their firsthand experience with the Allman Brothers and their deep knowledge of the repertoire, its roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players. Rock on!
Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 p.m. $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or call (516) 767-6444.
Every dinosaur is created in collaboration with top paleontologists to create accurate depictions. As more is learned about these prehistoric creatures, their features are updated to reflect the most authentic depiction of dinosaurs in their prime.
This year, you may see some different feather placement and colors added to the pack.
“We actually know that feathers were a lot more prominent than we originally thought. There are even some paleontologists that think that the T-Rex had feathers,” Safari Sarah explains.
While we may think of dinosaurs in their largerthan-life forms, they, of course started out young — and “small.” Meet the baby dinos, Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex, and Trixie the Triceratops, three lovable hatchlings ready to play with new friends!
“They all have their own personalities. They’re all kinds of tricksters and will steal your hat or your phone from you. They’re cute little buddies,” Safari Sarah says.
“The famous question we get is ‘Is this really real?”’
There’s much to explore at each activity station, including an opportunity to become a Utahraptor trainer for the largest raptor in the world. The team instruct families on different commands and tricks to use that they can try out for themselves.
Kids will also want to check out the fossil dig,
For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s
For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s a scavenger hunt-style activity that the whole family can explore. Go on “The Quest,” a scavenger hunt-style activity where budding paleontologists can become Jr. Park Rangers, and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help of a fun and fact-filled video tour.
and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help the
And the youngest adventurers have a spot all their own. Little dino-lovers can roam the ‘Triceratots’ soft play area, taking a well-deserved break from the excitement.
While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all of this
While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all ages to a sense of wonder.
“If a parent can step outside of their ‘common sense’ and get into ‘wow, this is a real science,’ it really opens it up for their children as well, ” Safari Sarah says.
From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, atmosphere
From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, dinosaurs unearth new — but actually very old — possibilities.
“Studying dinosaurs is a gateway science,” Safari Sarah explains. “It opens it up to all these different sciences that talk about our Earth or the atmosphere or the stars. Things that have always been around since the beginning of time.”
His ‘Bronx Tale’ Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage, with his solo version of “A Bronx Tale.” The powerful one-man stage play depicts his bruising childhood, which included witnessing a gangland killing in the Bronx when he was nine years old. Palminteri plays 18 characters and brings them all to life in his autobiographical play. His friends, enemies and family all come alive on stage. It became a hit after he wrote it in 1989 and the most sought after property since “Rocky.” This is the original show he wrote and performed that made him an in-demand character actor and served as the basis of the acclaimed movie and Broadway musical. Bronx-born and raised, Palminteri was a natural choice to continue the long line of prominent Italian actors in the film industry.
Sunday, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m., $99.50, $89.50, $79.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Visit ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com for tickets.
Photos courtesy Jurassic Quest
Trainer Safari Sarah (at left) knows her way around a dinosaur herd. These prehistoric creatures — of all shapes and sizes — roar to life at Jurassic Quest.
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.; Monday through Saturday, Feb. 1722, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. It is 3017 in this futuristic, musical retelling of “Cinderella.” She’s now a space engineer looking to revolutionize space travel. When the Prince holds a space parade, Cinderella saves it by helping fix the Prince’s spaceship. and shows the Prince her new hyper warp speed engine.
But first, she’ll have to keep her evil stepmother from throwing a wrench in her plans! $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
Game Time
Peninsula Public Library invites all to game time, Mondays and Thursdays, in the Bentley Room. Come play canasta, Mah Jongg, and Scrabble. Seating is limited; first come, first served. Call Roxanne Spodek to confirm the program the day before at (516) 967-5777. 280 Central Ave., Lawrence.
In concert
Jupiter String Quartet returns to Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, Friday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. The intimate group of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister), and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brotherin-law) are brought together by ties both familial and musical.
The ensemble brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works shaped by bold musicality and deeply meaningful thematic inspirations, including Warmth from Other Suns by Carlos Simon; String Quartet No. 3, Glitter, Doom, Shards, Memory by Shulamit; and String Quartet No. 13 in B-flat Major, Op. 130 with the Grosse Fuge by Ludwig van Beethoven. 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.
Having an event?
A Band Called Honalee
Plaza Theatricals welcomes the modern-day folk trio, Sunday, Feb. 23 , 2:30 p.m. Inspired by the music and legacy of Peter, Paul & Mary, the ensemble offers up an energetic interactive tribute. Satisfying diehard PPM lovers as well as newcomers to this wonderful era of music, their concer features all of PPM’s beloved hits, including “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Blowing in the Wind,” and of course “Puff The Magic Dragon.”
With stirring vocal harmonies and polished showmanship, they also offers favorites from Bob Dylan, The Byrds, Pete Seeger, Joni Mitchell, The Mamas & The Papas, Joan Baez, The Weavers, and more. $40, $35 seniors. Groove along at Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit plazatheatrical. com.
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 followup 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.
Hempstead House tour
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, Feb. 16, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveFeb. 16
Hundreds Attend The R.E.A.L. Awards
Event celebrates professionals driving growth and community development
By Angelina Zingariello
RichnerLIVE hosted its fourth annual R.E.A.L. Awards on Jan. 29, honoring the outstanding entrepreneurs, professionals and visionaries shaping Long Island’s real estate industry.
This event, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, recognized individuals who have excelled in their fields and dedicated themselves to community advocacy and development.
“We strive to spotlight these developments and the people and organizations behind them week in and week out,” Stuart Richner, president and publisher of Richner Communications Inc., said. “Your work is vital for our shared growth and prosperity.”
The ceremony emphasized the deep connection between real estate and local communities, highlighting how industry leaders contribute to the region’s growth and well-being. The event celebrated the accomplishments of professionals whose efforts go beyond building structures; they lay the foundation for thriving neighborhoods and economic prosperity.
The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees mingled and connected with friends and colleagues. The networking session set the tone for the night, allowing industry leaders to celebrate their shared achievements and contributions to the local real estate landscape.
“It’s always an honor to be honored,” said Sheldon Shrenkel, CEO and executive director of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency, said. “We appreciate the recognition, and to be together with all these other wonderful people in similar professions.”
After dinner, the awards ceremony was hosted by five-time Emmy Awardwinning investigative reporter Kristin Thorne. The honorees were recognized for their achievements, and came to the stage to accept their awards.
“It is always an honor to be celebrated multiple times by fellow architects and industry organizations,” Willy Zambrano, founder and design principal at Zambrano Architecutal Design, said. “However, recognition from another professional field is truly invaluable, particularly when it comes from a local news outlet. I’m elated to receive the Architectural Design Excellence award from this event.”
Keynote speaker Mike Florio, CEO of the Long Island Builders Institute, addressed the growing challenges in Long Island’s real estate market, emphasizing how rising construction costs, insurance premiums and restrictive zoning regulations are making homeownership increasingly difficult. Despite these obstacles, Florio highlighted the region’s desirability, and the need for collaborative efforts among developers, policymakers and local businesses to create sustainable, mixed-use communities that accommodate evolving demographic needs while ensuring
economic stability.
“To achieve these goals, we must take this conversation beyond a solution,” Florio said. “Everyone inside understands the challenges we face, but we need to reach a broader audience. Too often, the highest voices in the room are the small but local minority that is resistant to change.”
The annual Herald R.E.A.L. Awards served as a reminder of the vital role real estate professionals play in shaping Long Island’s future, not only through development but also through advocacy and community engagement. The evening brought together industry leaders to celebrate their achievements, foster connections and discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead.
A portion of the proceeds from the
evening benefited General Needs Ltd., a nonprofit organization that is committed to supporting homeless veterans. Founded in May 2015, General Needs provides essential services to veterans in emergency shelters in Brooklyn and Queens and across Long Island. The organization operates entirely through community support, ensuring that all donations directly assist those in need.
For a full list of honorees and photos, visit richnerlive.com/realestate.
Robert Esposito, founder of Relocators Service Inc. and author, “Nobody Move!” with Stuart Richner
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Honoree Nicholas Ceccarini with friends and family of Weatherstone Mortgage Corp
Hundreds cheer on our 2025 honorees
Keynote Speaker Mike Florio, Long Island Builders Institute
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Honoree Kevin D. Boone, Keller Williams Realty of Greater Nassau
Honoree Christina Volz and Nancy Cuite, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Honoree Sheldon L. Shrenkel, Nassau County IDA
Father/son honorees Kenneth and Stanley Schuckman, Schuckman Realty
Honoree Brendan D’Loren of Terwilliger & Bartone and Stuart Richner
Cocktail hour filled with 2025 honorees and their guests ahead of the ceremony
Honoree Tiffany Balanoff, Douglass Elliman
Honorees Vito Giannola, Provident Bank and Dee Dee Brix, Compass
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Honoree Willy L. Zambrano, Zambrano Architectural Design, LLC
Honoree Joseph Farkas, Metropolitan Realty Associates, LLC
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE OF SALE OF COOPERATIVE APARTMENT SECURITY BY VIRTUE OF DEFAULT in a security agreement executed on March 03, 2011 by Britt Kaufman, and in accordance with its rights as holder of the security, Nationstar Mortgage LLC, by Kim Carrino, Auctioneer, will conduct a public sale of the security consisting of 495 shares of common stock in 240 Central Avenue Owners, Inc. and all rights title and interest in and to a proprietary lease between corporation and debtor for UNIT 2K in a building known as and by the street address, 240 Central Avenue, Unit 2K, Lawrence, NY 11559 together with fixtures and articles of personal property now or hereafter affixed to or used in connection with UNIT 2K on February 28, 2025 at 9:30AM North Facing Front Steps of the Nassau County Court, 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY 11501, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the principal amount of $147,680.86 plus interest from June 01, 2024 and costs, subject to open maintenance charges. The secured party reserves the right to bid. Ten percent (10%) deposit by bank or certified funds required at Auction, payable to the attorneys for the secured party. Closing within 30 days. Such sale shall be subject to the terms of sale. GROSS POLOWY LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 204-1700 ATTORNEYS FOR SECURED CREDITOR 84170 151398
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against JEAN ALEX LOUIS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230,Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered June 12, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 10, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 224 Hungry Harbor Road, North Woodmere, NY 11581. Sec 39 Block 527 Lot 43. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Approximate Amount of Judgment is $524,385.18 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 601823/2020. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Harold Damm, Esq., Referee File # NY202000000018-1 151425
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON MORTGAGE SECURITIES CORP., CSAB MORTGAGE-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-2, Plaintiff AGAINST ELLIOT RINDENOW, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 15, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 6, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 770 West Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being near Cedarhurst, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, and State of New York, Section 39, Block 197, Lot 72, and Section 39, Block 197, Lot 76, and Section 39, Block 197, Lot 82. Approximate amount of judgment $1,428,888.33 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index
#006374/2009. Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No thirdparty check or cash will be accepted. David S. Zeidman, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-143727 84251 151404
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU --------------------------------x
471 CHESTNUT LLC, As successor in interest to BENJAMIN
MAIDENBAUM, As successor in interest to 471 CHESTNUT LLC, As successor in interest to SHALOM S.MAIDENBAUM, Plaintiff, -against-
MARTHA M. CANAMARE, and Any Person Who May Claim an Interest to the Premises located at 471 Chestnut Street, Cedarhurst, New York, Defendants. -----------------------------x Index No.
621071/2023
Date Purchased 12/29/2023 SUMMONS
621071/2023
Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based on CPLR §507 since the real property which is the subject of this action is located at 471 Plaintiff’s residence is at 132 Spruce Street, Cedarhurst, New York 11516, which is located within Nassau County. To the above named Defendant
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if the summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.
Dated:Cedarhurst, New York December 15, 2020 Defendant’s Address:
JONATHAN A. STEIN, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff
By: /s/ Jonathan A. Stein
JONATHAN A. STEIN
132 Spruce Street Cedarhurst, New York 11516
(516) 295-0956
22 Oakview Trail, Ridge, New York 11961
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
471 CHESTNUT LLC, As successor in interest to BENJAMIN MAIDENBAUM, As successor in interest to Index No. 471 CHESTNUT LLC, As successor in interest to 621071/2023
SHALOM S. MAIDENBAUM,
Plaintiff, VERIFIED COMPLAINT -against-
MARTHA M. CANAMARE, and Any Person Who May Claim an Interest to the Premises located at 471 Chestnut Street, Cedarhurst, New York, Defendant.
Plaintiff, by its attorney Jonathan A. Stein, P.C., as and for its verified complaint, alleges the following, upon information and belief: COMMON ALLEGATIONS
1.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto, Plaintiff 471 Chestnut LLC (“471”) was a domestic limited liability company, duly formed, having filed its articles of organization on February 1, 2013 and its certificate of publication on May 14, 2013.
2.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto, Benjamin Maidenbaum was a natural person, residing in the County of Nassau, State of New York.
3.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto, Shalom S. Maidenbaum is a natural person, residing in the County of Nassau, State of New York.
4.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto, Shalom S. Maidenbaum is the Managing Member of 471.
5.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto, defendant Martha M. Canamare (“Ms. Canamare”) was a natural person, residing in the County of Suffolk, State of New York.
6.At all times hereinafter mentioned and relevant hereto Joseph G. Canamare, Jr. (“Joseph”) was a natural person, residing in the County of Suffolk, State of New York.
7.Ms. Canamare and Joseph were brother and sister.
8.Martha G. Canamare was a natural person residing in Cedarhurst, New York and was the mother of both Ms. Canamare and Joseph.
9.Martha G. Canamare passed away in 2004.
10.Joseph passed away on October 7, 2019, and at the time of his death his only living heir and relative with whom he had any relationship was his sister Ms. Canamare.
11.Prior to the name “Canamare” the family name was “Camarinesi” or “Camarinese”, which
was changed sometime during the 1930s or 1940s to “Canamare.”
12.This is an action to quiet title by a combined bar claim-adverse possession action to the premises located and known as 471 Chestnut Street, Cedarhurst, New York 11516 (the “Premises”), located in the County of Nassau, State of New York, more particularly described as follows:
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at Cedarhurst (formerly Queens County) now Nassau County, State of New York, being the lot designated on a certain map entitled “Map of Property situated at Ocean Point, Rockaway Queens County, L.I., belonging to Thomas E. and S.A.W. Marsh, surveyed December 1872 by Ezra W. Conklin and filed in Queens County Clerk’s Office on June 21, 1872, as lot number Thirteen (13) in Block number 18 said lot being bounded and described as follows:
BEGINNING at a point on the southerly side of Chestnut Avenue as laid down on said map distance seventy five feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the easterly side of Spruce Avenue with said southerly side of Chestnut Avenue and; RUNNING THENCE easterly along the southerly side of Chestnut Avenue fifty (50) feet to the westerly line of lot number fourteen (14) in said block; THENCE southerly along the westerly line of said lot number fourteen (14) one hundred (100) feet; THENCE westerly on a line parallel with Chestnut Avenue fifty (50) feet; THENCE northerly one hundred (100) feet to the point or place of BEGINNING.
Designated as Section 39 Block 263 Lot 13 and also known as 469-471 Chestnut Street Cedarhurst Village NY.
13.By bargain and sale deed dated July 9, 2002 and recorded in the office of the Nassau County Clerk, on July 11, 2002 in Liber D 11498, Pages 308 to 310 Martha G. Canamare conveyed the Premises to Ms. Canamare and Joseph, retaining a life estate for herself.
14.By bargain and sale deed dated May 17, 2013 and recorded in the office of the Nassau County Clerk on May 28, 2013 in Liber D 12948, Pages 641 to 643 Ms. Canamare and Joseph conveyed the Premises to Shalom S. Maidenbaum.
15.By bargain and sale deed dated September 11, 2015 and recorded in the office of the Nassau County Clerk on
September 17, 214 in Liber D 13121, Pages 709 to 712 Shalom S. Maidenbaum conveyed the Premises to 471 Chestnut, LLC.
16.By bargain and sale deed dated July 9, 2021 and recorded in the office of the Nassau County Clerk on October 4, 2021 in Book-VI/Pg: Bk-D VI-14144 Pg-488, Receipt Number 2397693 471 Chestnut, LLC conveyed the Premises to Benjamin Maidenbaum.
17.By bargain and sale deed dated November 23, 2021 and recorded in the office of the Nassau County Clerk on December 16, 2021 in Book-VI/Pg: Bk-D VI-14-14177 Pg-463.
18.Title to the Premises was previously in the name of Filippo Camarinesi pursuant to a deed recorded in Queens County on 11/14/1898 in Liber 1204 Page 338. The estate of Filippo Camarinesi was administered in Nassau County on 05/26/1933 and established the heirs as his spouse, Maria Camarinesi, and children, Raymond Camarinesi, Louis Camarinesi, Henrietta Camarinesi, Joseph Camarinesi, Matthew Camarinesi and Paul Camarinesi. A surrogates court search establishes that Maria Camarinesi died 04/08/1948 leaving all real property to her children, Raymond Camarinesi, Louis Camarinesi, Henrietta Camarinesi, Joseph Camarinesi, Matthew Camarinesi, Paul Camarinesi and Angelo Tavolar. The next deeds of record pass title for no monetary consideration from Louis Canamare a/k/a Louis Camarinesi, son & heir of Filippo Camarinesi and Maria Camarinesi to Raymond Canamare a/k/a Raymond Camarinesi dated 05/06/1975 recorded 05/27/1975 in Liber 8803 Page 102 and from Oscar Tavolar, Mary TavolarGiannoccaro, Tavolar Margolies, Rose Bergen, Palma Canamare, Patricia Canamare and Jennie Resua to Joseph Canamare dated 09/21/1987 recorded 11/25/1987 in Liber 9865 Page 905.
19.The Canamares financially compensated there relatives to acquire the Premises, though proof of the same has long been lost.
20.Notwithstanding the foregoing, from January 20, 1989 Martha G. Canamare paid all carrying charges of the Premises prior to her conveyance to Ms. Canamare and Joseph, which carrying charges included, but were not limited to all real estate taxes, property insurance charges and utility charges related to the Premises.
21.From July 9, 2002 Ms. Canamare and Joseph
paid all carrying charges of the Premises prior to her conveyance to Ms. Canamare and Joseph, which carrying charges included, but were not limited to all real estate taxes, property insurance charges and utility charges related to the Premises.
22.Since at least January 20, 1989 to and including the date hereof - a period of nearly thirty-four (34) years, title to the Premises has been hostile in that no one other than the then or current titled owner of the Premises exercised any control over the same.
23.Since at least January 20, 1989 to and including the date hereof - a period of nearly thirty-four (34) years, title to the Premises has been under claim of right, based upon the then or current deed of record of the Premises.
24.Since at least January 29, 1989 to and including the date hereof - a period of nearly thirty-four (34) years, possession and the exercise of control over the Premises has been actual, to wit, same was exercised by the then or current titled owner of the Premises, based upon the then or current deed of record of the Premises.
25.Since at least January 29, 1989 to and including the date hereof - a period of nearly thirty-four (34) years, possession and the exercise of control over the Premises has been open and notorious, to wit, same was exercised by the then or current titled owner of the Premises, based upon the then or current deed of record of the Premises.
26.Since at least January 29, 1989 to and including the date hereof - the exercise over the Premises by the then or current owner, based upon the then or current deed of record of the Premises, has been continuous and uninterrupted.
AS AND FOR A FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION
27.Plaintiff repeats, reiterates and realleges each and ever allegation set forth in paragraphs 1 through 26 of the Complaint as though fully set forth herein.
28.Based upon the foregoing, this Court should issue a declaration barring any person claiming any interest in the Premises, other than the current owner by deed, i.e., Plaintiff from exercising any claim thereto, and Plaintiff demands judgment therefor.
AS AND FOR A SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION
29.Plaintiff repeats, reiterates and realleges each and ever allegation set forth in paragraphs 1 through 28 of the Complaint as though fully set forth herein.
30.Based upon the foregoing, this Court should issue and enter a judgment that Plaintiff, in
addition to its interest by bargain and sale deed, is the also the owner of the same by virtue of the law of adverse possession, and Plaintiff demands judgment therefor.
WHEREFORE this Court should issue and enter a judgment:
(a)On the first cause of action, a declaration barring any person claiming any interest in the Premises, other than the current owner by deed, i.e., Plaintiff from exercising any claim thereto;
(b)On the second cause of action, a declaration that in addition to its interest by bargain and sale deed, is the also the owner of the same by virtue of the law of adverse possession; and
(c)Granting such other and further relief as to this Court may seem just, proper and equitable.
Dated:Cedarhurst, New York
December 4, 2023
JONATHAN A. STEIN, P.C.
Attorney for Plaintiff
By: /s/ Jonathan A. Stein
JONATHAN A. STEIN
132 Spruce Street Cedarhurst, New York 11516-1915 (516) 295-0956 151391
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE Notification is hereby given that JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 1111 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43240 has filed an application with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”) on or about February 13, 2025, as specified in 12 CFR Part 5, for permission to establish a domestic branch at the southwest corner of the intersection of Sunrise Highway (aka Route 27) and Mill Road, Valley Stream, Nassau County, NY 11581. If you have any additional comments, you can send them to the Director for Large Bank Licensing, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, 7 Times Square, 10th Floor Mailroom, New York, New York 10036 or LicensingPublicComments @occ.treas.gov., within 30 days of the date of this publication. The public portion of the filing is available upon request from the OCC. The public may find information about the filing (including the closing date of the comment period) in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available at www.occ.gov. 151509
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February 13,
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
INC. VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST
NOTICE OF MEETING TO HEAR TAX GRIEVANCES GRIEVANCE DAY
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
THAT the assessment roll of the Inc. Village of Cedarhurst, for the year 2025 has been prepared and filed with the Village Clerk, pursuant to Section 1406, Sub-Division 1 of the Real Property Tax Law, where it may be seen and examined by any persons, at all times during business hours until February 28, 2025 and on the 18th day of February, 2025 (the third Tuesday in February) the Board of Trustees will hold a meeting pursuant to Section 1406, subdivision 3 of the Real Property Tax Law at the Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, N.Y. between the hours of 5 P.M. and 9 P.M. for the purpose of hearing and determining relation thereto, and the application of any person aggrieved thereby.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.
Dated: February 12, 2025 Cedarhurst, NY
By Order of Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and Board of Trustees
Jacob Plaut Village Clerk-Treasurer 151550
LEGAL NOTICE
A nonprofit org in Nassau County is seeking bids for installation of security related enhancements. Projects include: Shatter resistant glass, Impact resistant doors, exterior lighting, bollards, surveillance equipment and systems, fencing, access controls, security lighting and communications. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained via bids@yaazoru.org, referencing “RFPNSHMAS”. Bids will be accepted until March 30, 2025. 151506
LEGAL NOTICE
A nonprofit org in Nassau County is seeking bids for installation of security related enhancements. Projects include: Shatter resistant glass, Impact resistant doors, exterior lighting, bollards, surveillance equipment and systems, fencing, access controls, security lighting and communications.
Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can
be obtained via bids@yaazoru.org, referencing “RFPINWMIK”. Bids will be accepted until March 30, 2025. 151507
LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Hewlett Harbor will hold a public hearing at Village Hall on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 7:00PM. A ZOOM link to the meeting is available on our website at www.hewlettharbor.gov.
All interested parties will be given the opportunity to be heard on the following applications for variance relief: Alain and Joanne Halimi273 Heather Lane Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557Applicant is proposing new walkway, patio, pool patio, pergola, and rear yard shed. They are requesting relief from Village Zoning Codes: Zoning Code: 145-2 states the, maximum permitted lot coverage in residential “B” district is 30%. Applicant is proposing 42.6%.
Zoning Code: 145-25.A.
Accessory building states: may be located only in a rear or side yards and shall not be nearer to any property line 15 feet in Residence “B” District. Applicant is requesting “0” setback.
Bradley Goldsamt- 321 Everit Ave Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557-
Applicant is requesting to maintain a rear yard shed (80 sq.feet) applicant is seeking relief from Village Zoning Codef ( Zoning Code: 145-25 A. Accessory building and uses may be located only in the rear and side yards not be nearer to any property line than 20 feet in Residence ‘A” District.
Applicant requests to maintain a 2.1 x 4.7 side and rear yard setback. Nir Mamam - 1342 Boxwood Drive West Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557 -Applicant is requesting to maintain front yard Gazebo. Applicant is requesting relief from Village Zoning Code:
Zoning Code: 145.25.A.
Accessory building states: An Accessory building may be located in the rear and side yards. Applicant requests to maintain a Gazebo in the front yard. Subject lot property has 2 front yards.
Jeremy Danziger and Ilana Ajzenman - 369 Pepperidge Road Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557 -(Continuation) are requesting to construct new dwelling on the remaining portion of existing foundation. Applicants also requesting to remove portion of house not in compliance with FEMA Regulations and replace
at correct elevation. This dwelling is in a residential “B” district. Applicants request relief from the Village Zoning Codes:
Zoning Code 145.10.A (1) states the height of a residential dwelling with a pitched roof shall not exceed 33 feet. Applicant requesting 35.9 feet (on overage of 2.9ft)
Zoning Code 145-19 states the side-yard setback is 35 total; applicant requesting 31.3 ft. (3.7 ft short)
Zoning Code 145-2: Applicant requests to violate east and west side yard elevation height/setback plane. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS DR. JULIO NOVELLO, CHAIRMAN
ZONING BOARD
Peter Lynch - Building Superintendent Dated: Hewlett Harbor, New York February 7, 2025 151540
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Sale
Supreme Court: Nassau County Point 62 LLC v Edward Kelly et al. Defts Index 607310/2022
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered August 17, 2023, I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on March 14, 2025 at 2:00 pm premises known as Section 41, Block 12 Lot 8, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 25% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted.
Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.
Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq. Referee 151565
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION
TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ALBERT D. SUROWIECKI A/K/A ALBERT SUROWIECKI, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 6, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court
Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 966 Singleton Avenue, Woodmere, NY 11598. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Woodmere in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 41, Block 28 and Lots 105 and 823. Approximate amount of judgment is $530,294.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609151/2021. Cash will not be accepted. Peter J. Famighetti, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151557
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU GSR MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-3F, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-3F, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO WACHOVIA BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, -againstANNE EPSTEIN A/K/A ANNE M. EPSTEIN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 3, 2025, wherein GSR MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-3F, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-3F, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO WACHOVIA BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and ANNE EPSTEIN A/K/A ANNE M. EPSTEIN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 18, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 218 AVERY PLACE, CEDARHURST, NY 11516; and the following tax map identification: 39-424-306. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE, OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING, AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
HAFTR kicks off second semester GUEST COLUMN
By NATALIE BELLEHSEN
After the intensity of midterms and a refreshing winter break, HAFTR stepped back into the swing of things for the start of the second semester. Students are filled with a renewed excitement about upcoming events and tournaments and are eager to participate in more extracurricular programming, challenging courses, and settling into their routines.
HAFTR’s annual student-teacher conferences took place on Monday, February 3, where students met one-on-one with their teachers to discuss their performance and progress in their classes. These meetings gave students valuable insight into their strengths, areas in need of growth and overall learning. In this unique experience, students and teachers are able to have an open dialogue about how to meet educational goals and consider the appropriate courses to take next year. These meetings, along with report cards, give students a chance to reflect on their academic performance.
HAFTR Highlights
basketball tournament, which was held from January 30 through February 2, welcoming yeshivas from across the country. The tournament was thrilling for every school involved, with students and faculty showing up to every game with incredible school spirit. North Shore Hebrew Academy emerged as champions, though every team involved showed incredible skill. A highlight of the tournament was “Senior Night,” where seniors on the HAFTR team were recognized for their dedication throughout their high school athletic careers. The seniors were honored with creative posters, loud cheers, and appreciation from the entire school, making it a night to remember.
NATALIE BELLEHSEN
In consideration of planning for next year, seniors are in the midst of applying and committing to Yeshivas, seminaries and colleges. While this is a daunting process, HAFTR College and Israel Guidance provide continuous support throughout the process.
The College Guidance Department also began preparing juniors for college applications, with a Junior College night in December. Throughout February and March, guidance counselors will begin meeting with students to discuss their options for various programs, and the application and the decision making process. HAFTR is incredibly proud of its students’ accomplishments and hard work and looks forward to seeing their future successes.
February is packed with exciting athletic tournaments for volleyball and basketball. Immediately after winter break, HAFTR hosted its annual girls’
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 616183/2018. Harold F. Damm, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz,
Beyond the home tournament, HAFTR’s varsity basketball teams traveled to Auburn University in Alabama, February 2-5, to compete in another major competition.
Meanwhile, the varsity girls’ volleyball team competed at the YULA tournament in California. Later this month, the basketball teams will compete in the highly anticipated Miami tournament, continuing their journey of excellence in athletics.
Finally, HAFTR hosted the HAFTR Experience, where the incoming freshman class was welcomed to experience a mini-day, walking in the shoes of a freshman.
Throughout this engaging day, the eighth graders participated in interactive activities while meeting students and faculty members. Throughout the program they were guided by current high school students, ensuring they had a genuine welcome and overview of the school.
With academics, athletics, and student life in full swing, HAFTR is buzzing with energy. As always, there is a strong sense of community and support as students take on new challenges. Good luck to everyone on the year ahead and the beginning of this new semester.
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
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Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER : Proficiency Quickbooks, 2/ 3 Days/ Week, Flexible. $20-$30/ Hr. Send resume cbc@catalinabeachclub.com Call 516-239-2150
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
RECEPTIONIST/
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NEW TO MARKET
Nailing down the permits
Q. We completely rebuilt in 1996, and are ready to retire and sell. Our real estate agent told us they checked our permit records and it was never signed off. Although it’s a long story, our first contractor went to jail and destroyed our original permit papers. The second contractor never got a plumbing permit or electrical sign-offs, even though they had people do the work. Is this going to be a big problem to get everything signed off, because we want to sell within the year to take advantage of the market right now? What can you advise?
A. Sounds like you went through a lot. Most people tell me they could write a book about their experience. You need to see your building department records and get copies of the signed and sealed plans. Many municipalities keep records either in paper form, which you may have to pay for copies of, or microfilm or computer files.
Then speak with your inspector to find out what they think needs to be done. Most will be very helpful, and allow for the process to continue, asking you to hire a plumber to get a permit, which involves your notarized signature so you know it’s being done. In way too many cases, the plumber or contractor says it was done when it really wasn’t, so most municipalities require the owner’s signature on permit applications so the building department and owner are aware that the process is being done and is not false.
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The plumber needs to see your bathrooms, kitchen, heating equipment and any other plumbing to be sure it meets the plumbing code (and building code). The same process must be done with an electrician, but most building departments ask for a certification from a private agency, not your electrician, since most building departments don’t have an electrical inspector. The reason for this is that one of the two leading causes of fire is electrical (the other being use of the kitchen) so your local government wants nothing to do with the liability for fire safety.
You’ll find that almost everyone in this process wants to avoid responsibility as much as possible. You may have to either call for an inspection agency yourself or, if you suspect that there could be questionable electrical work, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and correct before hiring an agency to detect, if you elect. The private agency charges a few hundred dollars, usually, depending on the number of rooms and outdoor items, like air conditioning condensers, pool equipment and landscape lights, which must also be inspected. After all this is done, you may be able to get a final inspection and a sign-off and certificate from your building department, unless … your building department makes you get plans and a new survey redrawn and updated to the most recent code, which is complicated, time-consuming and expensive — in the thousands of dollars — before you can get a final inspection. Allow plenty of time.
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Trump’s whirlwind first three weeks
president Trump is back, and with his return, the golden age of America has begun. After four years of economic decline, border chaos and radical leftist policies, we finally have a leader in the White House who puts America first.
The Senate has already confirmed five of Trump’s exceptional cabinet nominees: Marco Rubio as secretary of state, Pete Hegseth as defense secretary, John Ratcliffe as CIA director, Kristi Noem as homeland security secretary, and Scott Bessent as treasury secretary. These appointments are just the beginning of a government that works for the American people, not against them. The president is making good on his promises. One of Trump’s first actions was declaring a national emergency at our southern border. He ended the disastrous “catch and release” policy and resumed construction of the border wall, making it clear that America will no longer tolerate illegal immigration. His administration has already taken aggressive steps to deport violent criminals, gang members
Nand suspected terrorists who were allowed to remain under the previous administration.
When the Colombian government refused to accept deported criminals, Trump swiftly imposed sanctions and tariffs. Within hours, Colombia relented. This is what American strength looks like.
HTrump has also made significant strides toward restoring America’s energy independence. One of his boldest moves was working to shut down harmful wind turbine projects, which threaten both our landscapes and the lives of wildlife, especially here on Long Island. The new administration has prioritized unleashing American energy production by rolling back restrictive regulations, which will lead to lower costs for American families and bolster the economy. Under his leadership, the U.S. is less reliant on foreign energy sources than at any time in recent history, ensuring both national security and economic stability.
e’s ended the left’s effort to reshape America through government overreach.
Most notably, Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the first foreign dignitary he met with after his inauguration, symbolizing the strong ties between our nations. The president’s actions have led to the release of four Israeli hostages held by Hamas, underscoring America’s commitment to Israel’s security and peace in the region.
On the economic front, Trump is tackling the damage left by four years of reckless spending, overregulation, and a war on American energy. He has ordered federal agencies to roll back burdensome regulations, unleash domestic energy production and taken immediate steps to lower costs for struggling families. Under the previous administration, inflation skyrocketed, wages stagnated, and American businesses suffered under mountains of red tape. Trump is already working to reverse this damage, putting America back on the path to prosperity.
that rewards hard work and excellence. Additionally, he signed an executive order affirming a basic truth: There are only two sexes — male and female. After years of government-enforced insanity, Trump has restored reality to federal policy.
Unlike his predecessor, Trump is once again proving to be the most transparent and accessible president in American history. He holds frequent news conferences, engages directly with the public, and speaks honestly with the American people.
In a groundbreaking move, the White House is expanding press access beyond the legacy media. Independent journalists, podcasters and new media voices will now have the opportunity to report from the briefing room, ensuring that Americans receive news from sources they trust. This administration understands that millions of people no longer rely on the traditional media, and it is adapting to the new reality.
On the global stage, the president has cemented strong relationships with our allies, particularly with Israel. His administration has worked tirelessly to support Israel, including facilitating the release of hostages, demonstrating unwavering support for our partner in the Middle East.
One of the most significant actions the president has taken is putting an end to the radical left’s attempt to reshape America through government overreach. He has directed all federal agencies to eliminate illegal diversity, equity and inclusion programs, restoring a merit-based system
The president’s first weeks back in office have demonstrated that the U.S. is on a new course — one of strength, prosperity and common sense. The radical left’s failed policies are being dismantled, our borders are being secured, criminals are being deported and the economy is being revitalized.
America is back, and our golden age has just begun.
Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.
High anxiety is gripping many Americans
ot that anxiety is funny, but sometimes it helps to laugh at ourselves.
In 1977, Mel Brooks did just that, with his movie “High Anxiety,” starring Brooks as a wildly neurotic shrink and Cloris Leachman as his mustachioed, militaristic nurse at the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous.
Now, either you think that’s funny or you’re already writing me a letter. But I speak from experience. I’m an anxious person, and according to the American Psychiatric Association, 40 percent of Americans said last year that they were more anxious than the year before.
I was an anxious kid, and teen, and adult. I come by my anxiety honestly, from my nervous parents and grandparents. Most days, I do breathing exercises before I open my eyes in the morning. How do you know if you have anxiety? Do you have a pulse and a moral conscience? You’re in.
Officially, according to psychothera-
pist Linda Hubbard in an article on the Mayo Clinic website, you might have trouble concentrating, you may feel tense or restless, or experience muscle tension or headaches or lightheaded or sleeplessness.
AAnxiety treatment has become big business. As I write this — case in point — I just got a pop-up ad from an online health letter selling “proven stress-busting techniques.” The barrage of anti-anxiety messaging is endless. We have to be careful consumers. I offer these words to commiserate and say you are not alone. These are troubling times, and nearly everyone I know is feeling some stress or anxiety. It is permissible now to discuss these feelings openly, and there is relief in sharing.
nd its treatment is big business. Anti-anxiety messaging is endless.
“shell-shocked,” and ostracized. Now antianxiety tactics and treatments are freely marketed and talked about and posted. Today’s society and culture have produced more anxiety, and more discussions of anxiety online, on TV and in social media. Anxiety has become monetized, from advertisements for medications to promotions for apps that control anxiety and foods and selfhelp books that promise to ease our emotional pain. Since the pandemic, we have had good reason to feel anxious. Our peace of mind is under attack, by everything from rising waters and emerging viruses to political dysfunction and the assault on our democratic values.
work, sometimes and to some degree. For those of us whose anxiety is triggered by the confederacy of dunces who have taken the political stage in Washington, eventually we can vote, but day to day, we can turn off the cacophony of news and social media that surely make us feel worse. I read a few newspapers to keep informed, but I no longer watch much TV, unless it makes me laugh (in a good way). Throw everything at the problem and see what works. But don’t try to tough it out. Be selective in using the internet. Let social media be your tool and not the other way around.
Each of us, in our own lives, can find reasonable and healthy ways to reduce anxiety. Many of them are free, like turning away from devices and toward people. When we need professional help, we can find it. Medications work for millions of people.
There is no real history tracking anxiety. Maybe Shakespeare was anxious; he did create Hamlet, one of the most deeply anxious characters in literature. Maybe cowboys who rode the range felt stress about the roundups. Perhaps our storied astronauts suffered these symptoms. It’s worse to suffer in silence, but that was always the expectation, especially for men. Soldiers who suffered debilitating anxiety in World War I were considered
I am a foot soldier in the struggle with anxiety. What works for me? I walk outdoors as often and as far as I can, weather permitting. The steps, one by one, for a mile or two, seem to ease tension.
I bought one of the apps that promise to reduce anxiety. It offers really boring stories read by monotonic narrators, which help you unwind and even fall asleep. The app also features yoga exercises and various sounds like rain on a roof and light piano music and ocean waves. In my own experience, all of these
It doesn’t hurt to have a laugh or two each day. Comedians like Sarah Silverman and the late Robin Williams carved careers out of their struggles with anxiety. The Apple TV series “Shrinking” has some laugh-out-loud moments. Maybe start by streaming a copy of “High Anxiety” and checking into the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous for a few hours.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
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The concern about a county civilian militia
the recent controversy surrounding Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of an armed civilian unit has sparked intense debate.
Blakeman unveiled a plan last March to deputize gun-owning residents for what he termed “the protection of human life and property during an emergency.”
Democratic lawmakers in Nassau County have now taken legal action, filing a lawsuit in State Supreme Court against what they describe as an “illegal, taxpayer-funded civilian militia.” The concerns focus on not only the legality of the initiative, but also on Blakeman’s refusal to provide clear and essential details about the program.
While opinions on the concept of a civilian militia may vary, what should trouble every resident, regardless of political affiliation, is the disturbing lack of transparency surrounding this initiative. It is not merely the existence of the militia that is at issue, but the secrecy and lack of accountability with which it has been formed and implemented.
As representatives of the people, these lawmakers have a duty to ensure that government actions are conducted openly and lawfully. Their inability to obtain basic information about this unit — who is being recruited, what their training entails, the weapons they will carry, and the total cost to taxpayers — should alarm everyone, regardless of where they stand on the issue of deputizing civilians.
State law in New York is explicit in
letters
defining who can wield police powers: only professional, sworn law enforcement officers. By contrast, the county’s unit consists of volunteers who are required only to be licensed gun owners and complete 12 hours of classroom and firearms training.
This falls far short of the rigorous training required of sworn officers, raising critical concerns about competency and public safety. If these volunteers are granted the authority to use deadly force and make arrests, then their selection, training and oversight should be subject to the highest levels of scrutiny.
Blakeman has attempted to dismiss the lawsuit as “frivolous” and an attack on the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement personnel. But his response sidesteps the central issue. No one is questioning the dedication or service history of these individuals. What is being questioned is the manner in which the program has been conceived and implemented — behind closed doors, without legislative approval, and without adequate public oversight.
The county has stated that these deputies will only be deployed in emergencies to protect critical infrastructure, not to patrol streets or manage protests. But without a transparent, codified framework governing their deployment, there are no guarantees that those boundaries will be respected. History has shown that when emergency powers are granted without sufficient oversight, they can be misused or expanded beyond their original intent.
Has Peter King forgotten Jan. 6?
To the Editor:
I just read Peter King’s column in last week’s Herald, “An inauguration that was decidedly different,” and it made me sick. But King is correct in stating that this inauguration was different. Unlike President Trump four years ago, President Biden was there to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power. There was no denial of who won the election. Biden upheld our country’s grand tradition.
On Jan. 6, 2021, police officers were killed and injured by people doing Mr. Trump’s bidding. The lives of Vice President Mike Pence, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and all of the members of Congress were at risk. The brave Capitol Police did their duty to protect them, and the thanks they get is a president pardoning their attackers and the people they protected turning their backs on them.
I’d warn Mr. King: Trump’s presidency is a moment in time, but eventually it will pass, and history will not be kind to those like you. Your grand-
Nassau County is not lacking for law enforcement resources. With roughly 2,600 sworn officers, the Nassau County Police Department is the 12th-largest local police force in the country. There is also an existing structure for civilian involvement — the Nassau County Auxiliary Police and the County Community Emergency Response Team, both of which operate unarmed and under professional supervision. Given these resources, what specific gap is the militia intended to fill?
County residents deserve answers. How were these individuals selected? What specific criteria were used? What safeguards exist to ensure their proper conduct? What is the financial burden on taxpayers? Until these questions are answered, the program lacks legitimacy. The lack of transparency is not a partisan issue — it is a fundamental issue of governance. When taxpayer money is being used to fund an initiative that involves armed civilians exercising government-sanctioned power, full disclosure should — must — be the bare minimum. If the program is truly necessary, it should withstand public scrutiny and meet the highest standards of accountability.
Blakeman and his administration must provide the information being sought by community members and lawmakers alike. Without this transparency, concerns about the legality and safety of the program will only continue to grow. The people of Nassau County deserve to know exactly what is being done in their name and with their money. Anything less is unacceptable.
opinions
Long Island gets shortchanged on transportation funding
over a decade ago, the Long island Regional Planning council recognized a critical issue: Long island’s transportation funding and planning processes were failing to meet the growing demands of our region. in response, we proposed the creation of a dedicated nassau-suffolk Metropolitan Planning organization. Unfortunately, that never happened. now, 10 years later, the situation has worsened, and investment in transportation on Long island continues to be shortchanged.
Long island’s share of transportation funding has steadily declined, a trend that has become more alarming over time. today, the region receives just 6 percent of the money allocated by the new York Metropolitan transportation council, which primarily serves the interests of new York city. Long island is forced to compete for resources with the city, leaving our region underfunded and unable to meet its infrastructure needs. this funding disparity is particularly troubling given Long island’s economic significance. As new York state’s secondlargest economic engine, Long island
plays a crucial role in its financial health. each year, Long island sends nearly $15 billion more in tax payments to Albany than it gets back, and an additional $27 billion to Washington. the state’s tax imbalance with Long island has doubled over the past decade, worsening an already unsustainable situation. if left unaddressed, it threatens Long island’s economy and its ability to sustain residents’ high quality of life. the consequences of this inequity are visible in our daily lives. congested highways, deteriorating bridges and inadequate public transportation aren’t just inconvenient; they hinder economic growth, erode quality of life and compromise public safety. crucial projects aimed at addressing these issues — from modernizing the Long island Rail Road to alleviating notorious traffic bottlenecks — remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization. the current system is failing, and the need for change has never been more urgent. one of the most effective ways to address this problem is by establishing a nassau-suffolk MPo, which would allow Long island to apply directly for federal transportation funds. it would bypass the bureaucratic delays at the state level, ensuring that funding is allocated to
a
projects that best meet our region’s needs. smaller areas, such as ithaca, have had their own MPos for years and have benefited significantly from direct access to funding. Long island, with a population of nearly 3 million and an economy that rivals that of many states, deserves to be treated with the same attention and respect.
nd crucial projects remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization.
the need for a nassausuffolk MPo extends beyond simply fixing roads and bridges. it’s about taking control of our region’s future and ensuring that its transportation infrastructure supports longterm economic growth and innovation. in today’s global economy, transportation is the backbone of a thriving region. Without a dedicated MPo, Long island’s potential for growth is stifled, and the region risks falling further behind in an increasingly competitive landscape.
the Long island Regional Planning council first raised this issue because we understood the long-term consequences of continued disinvestment. over the past decade, those consequences have become painfully clear. our transportation infrastructure is deteriorating, and other critical areas of need, such as affordable housing and the modernization of water systems, roads, bridges and power grids, remain neglect-
Letters
kids will have to explain why their grandfather sided with a man who tried to take down democracy instead of standing up to him.
Rest assured, many of us will never forget what happened on Jan. 6. We will continue to fight the good fight. At the same time, career politicians like Mr. King will sacrifice their integrity (if they ever had any) to support a man who wants to be king.
Vincent MAstRotA Sea Cliff
Whose golden age?
to the editor:
After reading congressman emeritus King’s op-ed, i have reservations about his lauding President t rump. i wrote trump before he took office, saying that it would be groundbreaking if he became the president of all the people. His legacy would be the destruction of the partisanship that is slowly strangling the UsA. i received a very hopeful reply signed by the president-elect.
As of today, i realize this was a dream. i and many like me, ordinary hardworking Americans, have been scammed.
King defends most of t rump’s and his minions’ draconian attacks on the very roots of what’s left of our republic. Revenge, and creating turmoil and anxiety, are the order of the day. Religion is being weaponized, and censorship, which trump says we will now be free of, is being spread through the agencies of government, right down to teachers in our schools.
Being poor, with skin of a different tone, dispossessed or a peaceful immigrant, is no longer acceptable. t he norm will soon become the knock on the door, the presentation of “your papers” and a disappearance in the night. History proves that while we’re not there yet, we are heading down this slippery slope.
King writes of trump’s new “golden age.” o n that term we agree, but we define it differently. the only gold i see is his greedy cadre of rich men grabbing all the power they can lay their hands on. t hey know that power breeds money. t hey are pigs at the trough.
King writes that the functions he attended in Washington were filled with “extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.” Yet the president is but three weeks in office, and many who supported him are reacting
ed. these issues require both state and federal support, and Long island’s fair share of transportation funding is a critical first step in addressing them. thankfully, there is hope for change. thanks to the leadership of state sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblyman steve stern, legislation has been introduced to establish a nassau-suffolk MPo this is a significant step toward securing that transportation funding. it would give our region the ability to prioritize projects that are critical to our local economy and residents, ensuring that Long island’s transportation needs are no longer overshadowed by the priorities of new York city or other areas of the state.
the establishment of a nassau-suffolk MPo wouldn’t be just a policy change — it would be a commitment to the future of our region. Long island deserves safe roads, efficient public transit and infrastructure that supports economic growth and opportunity. We have waited long enough. the time for action is now.
Long island has the potential to be a leading force in the state’s economy, but that potential cannot be realized without the right infrastructure. establishing a nassau-suffolk MPo is a critical step in ensuring that Long island receives the resources it needs to thrive. it’s time for our region to earn its fair share.
John D. Cameron Jr. is chairman of the Long Island Regional Planning Council.
adversely to the confusion, disappointment and the “shock and awe” of his policies and his erratic statements. Many are feeling buyer’s remorse.
King is an intelligent man who did much for his constituents when he served the public. it is difficult to comprehend how he cannot sense that this president is quickly on his way to
becoming a clear and present danger to the republic King served. King and i probably both pray, in our own ways, for the same things, a better country and a peaceful world. it’s good to dream!
Framework by Tim Baker
At the annual month-long celebration of Black history — Freeport
MARK c nUccio Bellmore
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