DEADLINE MARCH 3RD
Local districts react to Hochul’s plan to ban phones in schools Munro runs away with a high honor
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
A statewide smartphone ban would require school districts to restrict the use of the devices in classrooms to promote what Gov. Kathy Hochul describes as “distraction-free learning.” While some districts, including Wantagh, already have policies prohibiting smartphone use, others worry that the initiative may go too far.
Announced by Hochul at a news conference on Jan. 22, the ban would apply to students in kindergarten through 12th grade statewide. Part of the
T here really should be more about teaching students proper use of a phone.
Todd WiNCH Superintendent, Levittown Public Schools
governor’s fiscal year 2026 executive budget, it would allow districts the flexibility to develop their own implementation plans.
“Using the insights from my
statewide listening tour, this comprehensive proposal to restrict smartphone use in schools will ensure that New York’s statewide standard for distraction-free learning delivers the best results for our kids and educators,” Hochul said.
That same day, she released a report based on her listening tour. It found that smartphones distract students and hinder creativity, and that phone-free policies support mental health without compromising safety. The report recommended clear communication with stakeholders, and addressing parents’ concerns.
This new requirement would
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Years of dedication to running has led Seaford High School senior Myles Munro to win the Bill Ott Memorial Award, which annually honors a crosscountry athlete who displays athleticism and leadership.
Munro accepted the award during a dinner at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on Dec. 11. The Nassau County Officials Association, an organization dedicated to officiating and supporting high school sports in the county, presented the award to him.
Munro said being named the 2024 recipient of the award was a special moment, especially after looking up to past winners.
“I’m definitely really proud of myself,” Munro said. “I think I put in a lot of hard work over the COntinued On pAge 4
be implemented in the 2025-26 school year, and would apply to all public school districts, as well as charter schools and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services, or BOCES.
In Wantagh, smartphone policies are already in place at all five district schools, according to Superintendent John McNamara.
“Elementary students are
not allowed cell phones in school,” McNamara wrote in an emailed statement. “Middle school students leave their phones in their lockers for the entire school day. High school students place their phones in ‘phone cubbies’ when they walk into instructional areas.” Levittown Public Schools, however, do not have a district-
COntinued On pAge 10
Courtesy Seaford School District
Myles Munro, a senior at Seaford High School, was the recipient of the 2024 Bill Ott Memorial Award for his dedication and leadership in cross-country and track.
AA message of hope and renewal greeting
s the cold of winter settles in around us, we find ourselves in the heart of Shevat, a Hebrew month that invites us into a quiet, yet profound space for reflection, renewal, and growth. Tu B’Shevat, the New Year for Trees, teaches us a beautiful lesson: even in the barren, frost-covered seasons, life is working silently beneath the surface. The trees may appear lifeless, but deep within, they are drawing on reserves, preparing for a season of blossoming and new beginnings.
er to a future of renewal and possibility.
To inspire and uplift you, I offer this poem:
“Roots of Hope”
Though the earth feels cold, the seed still grows,
Beneath the surface, life’s promise glows.
In quiet patience, the roots take hold, A hidden strength, a story untold.
As winter lingers, hold fast to grace, In every struggle, there’s a sacred space.
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In our own lives, too, there are moments when we feel weighed down, when hope feels distant and our strength is tested. Yet, just like those trees, even when we can’t see it, something is happening inside us. The quiet growth, the inner work—it’s all part of the process. It is in these times, when everything feels still, that we often grow the most, building resilience and faith. We may not always see the results right away, but the seeds of transformation are being planted in our hearts.
Let this Hebrew month of Shevat remind us that, just as the trees will soon renew themselves, so too can we. Even in the toughest times, growth is possible, and hope is always within reach. There is beauty in patience, in allowing ourselves the time and space to grow, to reflect, and to heal. Let’s embrace the quiet moments, trusting that with each step, we are moving clos-
The trees will bud, the flowers will bloom, So too will you, dispelling the gloom.
This month, as we reflect on the beauty and power of Shevat, let us remember: the coldest days bring forth the greatest potential for renewal. Even in the most challenging times, we are never alone. Let’s nourish one another with love, patience, and unwavering faith in what is yet to come.
May this time of reflection and growth bring us all the strength, hope, and inspiration we need. Together, we are part of something greater—a community grounded in love, faith, and the promise of new beginnings.
Shalom and blessings to each and every one of you.
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD
Rabbi Moshe Weisblum is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Tikvah in Wantagh.
news briefs
Student chefs show culinary skills for MacArthur’s ‘Chopped’ challenge
General Douglas MacArthur High School culinary students and teachers cut the ribbon on a newly renovated culinary arts room, complete with every kitchen essential. To celebrate, teams faced off in a “Chopped” style competition to make a pizza of their choice on Jan. 30. MacArthur’s new culinary space features ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, sinks and every tool students need to learn the ins-and-outs of cooking and baking. Students joined with teachers to put their skills to the test and create pizzas from scratch, including a burrata pizza, a Margherita pizza and a dessert pizza. The kitchen was abuzz with energy as teams prepared each ingredient with the hope of obtaining a first-place win. Students presented their dishes to judges, who chose the burrata pizza as the winner.
R abbi M oshe P. Weisblu M
courtesy Levittown Public Schools
Ivan Adames, Illiano and Zhalay Imran crafted a burrata pizza.
things to know About the tribute event
McNaughton tribute raises money for veterans
For 20 years, family, friends, and supporters have gathered at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall in Wantagh to honor Staff Sergeant James McNaughton, an NYPD officer and U.S. Army reservist killed in Iraq in 2005. This year’s event on Feb. 1 drew more than 1,000 attendees, raising funds for veterans while celebrating McNaughton’s life. Here are three things to know about the annual tribute:
It honors a fallen soldier and NYPD officer
McNaughton, a Centereach native, was serving in Iraq when he was fatally shot by a sniper on Aug. 2, 2005. His childhood friend Vinny Zecca and others started the tribute in 2006 to keep his memory alive. Over the years, the event has grown, with law enforcement officers, military personnel, and community members coming together to pay their respects.
It’s a fundraiser for veterans
Proceeds from the tribute benefit nonprofit organizations that support veterans, including the Wounded Warrior Project and the Northport P.T.S.D. Veterans Association. The event raises awareness of the challenges veterans face and helps provide resources for those struggling with physical or mental injuries from their service.
It’s a night of fun, music and remembrance
Each year, the tribute features live entertainment, including performances from the NYPD Pipes and Drums band and Long Island-based rock band Plunge, which has played at the event since its inception. This year’s tribute also honored McNaughton’s father, Bill, an Army veteran and retired NYPD officer who passed away in December from 9/11-related cancer.
For Zecca, keeping the tradition alive is a way to celebrate McNaughton’s life while supporting those who have served. “It’s helped us get through Jimmy,” he said. “And I think he’d be smiling down knowing that it’s a party for him.”
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Steph Wyard and Daniella Schmidt having a good time at the 20th annual tribute to Staff Sergeant James McNaughton.
Michele Schmitt, left, with James McNaughton’s stepmother, Michele, and Teresa Schmitt at the annual tribute event.
Rich and Shannon Delfino enjoying the party at Mulcahy’s.
James Wiggins and Robert Rizzo looking to win big at the raffles.
Munro reflects on his cross-country career
years, and it all came to fruition.”
Munro’s six-year running career began in seventh grade when he joined Seaford’s varsity squad, making an immediate impact in cross-country, a long-distance running sport that takes place on natural terrain like grass, trails and hills. As a senior, he placed second in Nassau County in the 5K and went on to finish 10th at the state competition. He is a six-time All-County athlete and has earned two All-State selections.
His cross-country coach, Kim Cooke, nominated Munro for the award because of his athleticism, leadership and respect toward his teammates and opponents. According to Cooke, Munro is a driven athlete who puts in the work to be the best.
“He does learn from all of his races, and he does shake it off when it doesn’t go well,” Cooke said. “He takes it in and then he moves on, and he leads by example in that way.”
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.
Medicaid FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington
setbacks and move forward. Munro applies this approach by not letting poor performances linger in his mind, focusing instead on the next opportunity to compete.
While competitive, cross-country is also a sport to build friendships and learn from competitors, according to Munro.
“I go on runs with everybody from different teams,” Munro said. “It’s all very connected, and it’s a really special friendship that we have.”
He added that Cooke is a “one-in-amillion” coach that has helped push him throughout his years of running.
I think I put in a lot of hard work over the years, and it all came to fruition.
Myles Munro Seaford High School senior
Cooke has known Munro since coaching him in winter track when he attended Seaford Middle School as a seventh- and eighth-grader. When she took over the high school cross-country program during his freshman year, she saw him grow into a leader among his peers.
“He’s a quiet leader,” Cooke noted. “He will pull kids aside and give them tips without being noticed by others. It’s very secretive, nobody really is aware of how much he does lead, but he does, even with his competitors.”
Munro said track has taught him the importance of being a good teammate and building connections with others. He also learned not to dwell on a bad race, instead adopting a “goldfish mentality” — a mindset inspired by the belief that goldfish have short memories, allowing them to quickly forget
“Her motivation is like nothing I’ve ever seen before,” Munro said. “It’s extremely constructive.”
Beyond his cross-country achievements, Munro is a well-rounded student. He is a member of the Athletic Leadership Council, Leo’s Club, National Art Honor Society, and the winter and spring track teams. In 2023, he was selected as a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership ambassador.
Alex Mantay, the high school’s assistant principal, praised Munro for his dedication and the positive example he sets for his peers.
“He represents our school and our community in such an incredible way that we are beyond proud of him and just so thankful for how he represents our school,” Mantay said.
After high school, Munro plans to continue his cross-country and track career at Temple University, in Philadelphia, where he will major in marketing. He said he’s excited for the connections he’ll make at the campus as well as growing as a track athlete.
“It’s been a ride with Myles,” Cooke said, “and it’s sad to come to an end, but I’m excited for him and for his next step.”
Courtesy Seaford School Distric
myles munro was congratulated by his coach, Kim Cooke, on the Bill ott memorial award. in the six years that Cooke coached munro, she said, he has developed into a strong leader among his peers.
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.
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
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.”
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald
the Wantagh School District, and was previously head custodian of the high school.
New facilities director off to a strong start
The Wantagh School District announced the appointment of Rob Lovergine as the director of facilities. In this role, he supervises approximately 60 custodians, maintainers and grounds staff across five schools.
Lovergine has been in Wantagh’s facilities department for the past five years, serving as head custodian of Wantagh Elementary School and most recently as head custodian of the high school. Previously, he worked in the Lynbrook, Carle Place and Sewanhaka school districts, and he brings a total of 18 years of experience to his new role.
In addition to overseeing his staff, Lovergine coordinates with architects, contractors and project managers relating to work from the voter-approved bond referendum in December 2022. He said that he is looking forward to the upgrades that will enhance the educational environment for students and staff, particularly the new HVAC system with better temperature controls and new windows.
Lovergine said he hopes his nearly two decades of experience working in school facilities, along with established relationships both inside and outside of the district, will be a valuable asset in a job he has long aspired to. He holds a state certification as a director of facilities.
“I’m happy to get this opportunity because I care about the district,” Lovergine said. “I’ve worked my way up and advanced the old-fashioned way. I’m excited to lead an amazing staff, where everyone cares about their job and are committed to doing the work the right way.”
News briefs
Seaford launches scholarship drive for Class of 2025
The Seaford Scholarship Fund is kicking off its annual fundraising drive. All residents and businesses are asked to contribute to this scholarship drive, as funds collected will be used to award scholarships to deserving seniors from the Seaford High School Class of 2025.
If you would like to contribute, please make checks payable to Seaford Union Free School District and send to Seaford High School at 1575 Seamans Neck Rd., Seaford, N.Y. 11783 – ATTN: Ms. Nicole Schnabel, Principal. For more information, please contact Toni Coacci at 516-592-4385.
The Seaford Scholarship Fund is kicking off its annual fundraising drive, where funds collected will be used to award scholarships to deserving seniors from the Seaford High School Class of 2025.
Kids Camp and School
Kids Camp and School is an in-depth guide on summer camps, after-school programs, and educational institutions, ensuring families have all the information they need to make informed decisions.
The Our Story Finance special supplement is a dedicated exploration of how community businesses drive local economies, foster financial resilience, and create lasting social impact. This edition highlights the power of collective entrepreneurship, showcasing how locally owned enterprises shape thriving neighborhoods through shared resources, ethical finance, and community investment.
Estate Movers and Shakers
This edition spotlights the individuals driving positive change, from revitalizing neighborhoods to pioneering sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. This edition features in-depth profiles, and takes a look behind-the-scenes at how community-focused real estate and business leaders are reshaping local communities.
Higher education is more than just earning a degree— it’s a gateway to personal growth, career success, and community development. This special supplement explores the transformative impact of colleges and universities on individuals and society, highlighting the latest trends, opportunities, and resources available to students and lifelong learners.
Courtesy Wantagh School District
Rob Lovergine is the new director of facilities for
Herald file photo
Proposal would ban phone use in schools
wide policy on smartphones. Instead, their use is at the discretion of the classroom teacher, according to Superintendent Todd Winch.
“Classroom teachers are allowed to have the phones be put into pouches in front of the classroom if they so choose,” Winch said. “The students can have them in their backpack if they want. They can have it on their desk if they want. It’s really up to the classroom teachers.”
There really should be more about teaching students proper use of a phone.
Todd Winch Superintendent, Levittown Public Schools
The district, Winch said, has been in conversation with stakeholders, building administration, teachers’ groups and PTAs about a smartphone policy, which the district has yet to finalize, because it is waiting to see what happens with the governor’s proposal, which is tied to the budgeting process.
“We don’t know if there will be any changes between now and the budget adoption up in Albany,” Winch said.
The district, according to Winch, is looking to institute a policy that would require students to store their devices in pouches during class time. But, he added, he does not believe that a full ban, from the beginning of the school day to the end, is necessary. Under Hochul’s proposal, there would be no unsanctioned use of smartphones or other internet-enabled personal devices on school grounds for the entire school day, including lunches and study halls.
Winch said he is in favor of making devices unavailable while teachers are instructing classes. He agrees that smartphone use is a distraction, but also believes that a complete ban is not the best method.
gov. Kathy Hochul has proposed a statewide phone ban in schools to promote “distraction-free learning,” but would allow districts flexibility in implementation. While some local districs already restrict phone use, others, like Levittown, are waiting to see how the proposal unfolds.
“I think it could be used during free time and cafeteria,” he said. “I think one of the things that could be missing from the proposal is that there really should be more about teaching students proper use of a phone.”
At the elementary level, the Levittown district has implemented a digital citizenship course, which teaches students digital etiquette, such as when it’s appropriate to use a cellphone, according to Winch.
Hochul’s proposed spending plan would allocate $13.5 million to school districts to help them pay for pouches, cubbies and other storage methods. Winch said the district would “absolutely” make use of funding made available by the state.
“We’re always looking to utilize state grant funding
whenever possible in order to alleviate any kind of cost to our taxpayers,” he said.
As part of the governor’s proposal, schools would be required to make it possible for parents to contact their children during the day if needed. In Levittown, Winch said, parents would be able to call a school’s main office to do so.
As a father of two children, he said, he understands the demand by parents to have the ability to be in quick communication with their children during school hours, such as for emergencies.
“This is not the ’70s or ’80s anymore,” Winch said. “(But) for me, the governor’s proposal, saying from bell to bell, beginning of the day to end of day, they can’t have access at all, is a bit extreme.”
Wantagh honors four chaplains with memorial
The Wantagh American Legion Post 1273 held a ceremony on Feb. 2 to honor the Four Chaplains, military clergymen who gave their lives to save fellow service members during World War Two.
The event, held at the post’s headquarters on Park Avenue, commemorated the sacrifice of Lt. George L. Fox, Lt. Alexander D. Goode, Lt. Clark V. Poling, and Lt. John P. Washington. The chaplains were aboard the USAT Dorchester when it was struck by a German torpedo on Feb. 3, 1943. As the ship sank in the frigid waters off Newfoundland, they gave up their life jackets to save others and prayed together as they went down with the vessel.
Elected officials in attendance included State Sen. Steve Rhoads, Town of Hempstead Clerk Kate Murray, Town of Hempstead Councilman Chris Schneider, Nassau County Legislator Michael Giangregorio, and State Assemblyman David McDonough. Legion members, veterans, and community members gathered to pay their respects through prayers, reflections, and a wreath-laying ceremony.
The Four Chaplains’ story is remembered annually to highlight their selflessness and unity, which transcended religious and cultural differences. The Wantagh American Legion continues to honor their legacy through this annual memorial.
Herald file photo
— Charles Shaw
Holden Leeds/Herald attending the four Chaplains ceremony at the Wantagh american Legion were, from left, assemblyman david mcdonough, State Sen. Steve rhoads, County Legislator michael giangregorio, Legion Commander george dibitetto, town of Hempstead Clerk Kate murray and Councilman Chris Schneider.
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.
Your Neighborhood
THE
Kevin James
You know him, you love him, and now you can catch Kevin James when his “Owls Don’t Walk” tour arrives at the Paramount, Sunday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. The standup comic and beloved sitcom star brings his latest material out on the road in 2025. In this this unfiltered special James’ delivers his hot takes on everything from parenting to marriage and getting older. As only Kevin can, he covers a range of topics from motivating children to put down their video games, to why he doesn’t trust technology, and how many tater tots he can fit in his mouth. James sure has come a long way since his early standup days on the Long Island comedy scene. After being discovered at the 1996 Montreal Comedy Festival, he signed a network development deal to create his own sitcom. “The King of Queens” premiered in 1998 and ran for nine seasons, earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. From there, his acting career blew up — in film and television. He also starred in, and executive produced The Crew, a sitcom set in the world of NASCAR and is currently developing a single camera comedy (both for Netflix).
Reading Wonderland
Seaford Public Library hosts its 10th annual “Walking into a Reading Wonderland” adult winter reading program through Feb. 22. Adults 18 and older can register online or at the library Participants can submit weekly book reviews online or in-person for a chance to win gift certificates to local restaurants, with grand prizes including a Kindle Fire HD 10. Winners will be announced on Feb. 24. For details, visit seafordlibrary.org. 2234 Jackson Ave.
Boat slip lottery
Nassau County residents can apply for the 2025 Wantagh Park boat slip lottery now through Saturday, March 7, at the Wantagh Park Marina Office. The drawing will be held on Sunday, March 8, 10 a.m. Applicants must submit a Nassau County Leisure Passport, driver’s license, boat registration, and recent tax or utility bill, along with a $36 non-refundable fee (cash or credit). For more information, call (516) 5717460. 1 King Road, Wantagh.
Game time
Of course, he’s always eager to return to his standup roots. He had concluded his previous tour, “Irregardless,” at The Paramount in November2023, in a benefit event for The Alonso Foundation, a nonprofit group founded by Mets first baseman Pete Alonso and his wife, Haley, to help combat bullying, cyberbullying, animal abuse and other societal ills. So if you love the King of Queens’ hilarious, spot-on takes on jobs, relationships, and the petty annoyances of everyday life, then don’t miss your chance to hear his newest jokes live $99.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Enjoy Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday, noon-4 p.m., at Congregation Beth Tikvah. $5 contribution, no outside food, as snacks and drinks will be supplied. Bring your games and cards, lessons available. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh. For more info, email mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or call (516) 785-2445.
Seal walks Jones Beach State Park hosts guided seal walks through Monday, March 10, beginning at the Jones Beach Energy & Nature CenterA state park naturalist will lead 90-minute beach walks to observe wintering seals, marine geology, and birdlife. Walks cost $4 per person, and reservations are required at bookwhen.com/ jonesbeachnaturecenter. For dates, times and more information, visit jonesbeachenc.org or call (516) 780-3295. 150 Bay Parkway, Wantagh.
BOCES Barry Tech Open House
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech, Long Island’s state-of-the arts career and technical education (CTE) high school, opens its doors to all students with a passion for a hands-on career. Come and get a “Taste of Tech” at an open house that will be held at the Joseph M. Barry Career & Technical Education Center, Thursday, Feb. 27, 5:30 p.m. Following an introduction to the school, led by administrators, there will be selfguided tours of the state-of-theart facility, at 1196 Prospect Ave., Westbury. Interested students and their families can register at nassauboces.org/barrytech or call (516) 622-6812 for more information.
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
Decades of fun at Twin Oaks Day Camp
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
For half a century, Twin Oaks Day Camp has been a summer haven for generations of campers, who have created memories and friendships that last a lifetime. As the camp marks its 50th anniversary this summer, its leaders are reflecting on what makes Twin Oaks a special place, that keeps families coming back year after year.
Twin Oaks has been family owned and operated since 1975, although its history stretches back even further. Hal Elman was a head counselor at the camp prior to 1975, and when the former owners were looking to sell the property, Elman and his college friend, Bernie Hoffman, along with their wives Barbara Elman and Beverly Hoffman, decided to purchase it.
Since then, the camp has flourished into what it is today — a place where every camper and their family member feel like they’re part of an even bigger “family.” The camp is based in Freeport, but serves many communities, includ -
LEGAL NOTICE
ing Merrick, Bellmore, East Meadow, Wantagh, Seaford, Baldwin, Rockville Centre and beyond.
Twin Oaks is now run by Jenni Elman-Davis, Hal and Barbara’s daugh-
Public Notices
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMTP TRUST, SERIES 2019-C, Plaintiff - against - DAVID HOSKIN A/K/A DAVID A. HOSKIN, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 22, 2020. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 25th day of February, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Seaford, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Premises known as 1967 Russell Court, Seaford, NY 11783.
(Section: 57 Block: 06001 Lots: 63 and 64)
Approximate amount of lien $606,487.45 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 614367/2018. Rita Solomon, Esq., Referee.
McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170
Tel. 347/286-7409
Dated: October 24, 2024
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 151055
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF PEOPLE’S FINANCIAL REALTY MORTGAGE SECURITIES
TRUST, SERIES 2006-1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-1, -againstJOSEPH GRECO, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 5, 2020, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF PEOPLE’S FINANCIAL REALTY MORTGAGE SECURITIES
TRUST, SERIES 2006-1, MORTGAGE PASS-
THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-1 is the Plaintiff and JOSEPH GRECO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY
SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 4, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 3586 MARJORIE LANE, SEAFORD, NY 11783; and the following tax map identification: 57-286-15. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SEAFORD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 612236/2017. Lisa S. Poczik, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 151270
an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Nassau, U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its Individual Capacity, BUT SOLELY as Trustee of the Truman 2021 SC9 Title Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Anthony Meola a/k/a Anthony R. Meola a/k/a Anthony R. Meola, Jr., ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 24, 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 3833 Wilburne Avenue, Seaford, NY 11783 a/k/a 3833 Wilburne Street, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Seaford, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 57, Block 151 and Lot 127. Approximate amount of judgment is $256,908.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612254/2019. Harold F. Damm, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 220886-1 151523
ter, alongside assistant directors Carin Stone and Michele Colella, who have both worked at the camp for over 25 years.
The camp is split into four divisions, with its youngest members taking part in the Barney Program for children between the ages of 20-months and 30-months-old. Each camper is paired with a one-on-one supervisor, and they get to take part in a half-day program, filled with fun, adventure and socialization.
The Lower Camp is for three and four year-olds and the Upper Camp is for children in kindergarten through thirdgrade. There are full day and mini day programs available. The camp’s activity directors create an engaging and diversified experience for all campers, and each child has an opportunity to participate in sports, art-and-crafts, swimming and more.
Its Gemini Program is for Twin Oaks’ oldest campers, for students entering into fourth-grade through ninth-grade. Instead of attending the day camp, children in the program travel every single day to a new location all over Long Island and New York City. From baseball games to amusement parks, and everything in between, the Gemini Program is Twin Oaks’ most non-traditional camp experience.
Camp season this year begins on June 30 and ends on Aug. 22. Enrollment is currently open for all programs.
“We’re not the biggest or the fanciest,” Elman-Davis told the Herald, “but we have the most heart. We do a lot of fun, innovative programming. Our travel program for our teens is one of the best travel programs around.”
During each week of camp, there’s a special “theme” that children can take part in — whether its simply dressing up in red, white and blue for Independence Day celebrations, or a special activity day like relay races, a DJ Dance Party or Halloween in August, the camp’s calendar is both fun and engaging.
Something that makes Twin Oaks so special, Elman-Davis said, is its multigenerational members. Many campers
For 50 years, campers have fallen in love with the atmosphere at Twin Oaks Day Camp, founded in 1975 with Hal and Barbara Elman and Bernie and Beverly Hoffman. A family-based camp, generations of families have attended camp at Twin
from the 70s and 80s now have children of their own, she said, who are either campers or enrolled in Twin Oaks’ Day School as students, which opened in 1975. The students range from toddlers to pre-K.
“We have a very good relationship with the local elementary schools,” Elman Davis said. “A lot of local elementary school teachers send their children to us because they feel that their students come to public school very well prepared.”
“Papa Hal” — Hal Elman — died last year, but Elman-Davis said her mom still checks in each day — even though she lives in Florida. Her mom still runs into people constantly, who simply remember her as “Barbara from Twin Oaks.”
Stone said the environment at Twin Oaks is incredible, and that there’s nothing Elman-Davis wouldn’t do for members of her staff or the families they serve.
“She is kind and loving and understanding,” Stone said. “She loves the children here, but she loves her staff too.”
Colella called Twin Oaks “Family, Fun and Flexible” — meaning that the directors really try to accommodate every family and their schedules in order to meet their needs.
“We’re a place that smiles,” ElmanDavis said. “The minute you walk through our gate, how could you not smile? You’re greeted by happiness. To get to see the world through the eyes of a child every day is the greatest gift that anyone could receive.”
Twin Oaks is located at 458 Babylon Turnpike, Freeport. For more information on the camp and the school, including enrollment, visit TwinOaksDayCamp.com, or call (516) 623-4550.
Photos courtesy Twin Oaks
Oaks.
Family-owned and operated since 1975, Twin Oaks Day Camp has left many families and campers with memories and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.
Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours
Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
TO 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.
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.
Ask The Architect
Monte Leeper
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On smartphones, collaborate, don’t mandate
The advent of smartphones, social media and other personal devices has brought about a revolution that has impacted everything from the way we communicate and socialize to the way we research information and work. While these technologies offer undeniable benefits, they also present significant challenges, particularly for our youth.
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed statewide ban on student smartphone use during the school day aims to address these challenges, but a top-down approach risks creating more problems than it solves. The governor has charged each school district with devising a plan for eliminating student smartphone use during the school day. While the motivation behind her proposal is laudable, the impact of this mandate could place schools at odds with students and their families. The path forward requires collaboration with our stakeholders, not mandates. The research highlighting the nega-
Ntive impacts of social media on young people, especially girls, is compelling. Teachers, administrators and even students themselves acknowledge that smartphones are a problem. In addition to harmful effects on student well-being, their use has an adverse effect on learning, socialization and development. Students whose use of smartphones is unregulated tend to pay attention less in class. As teachers battle for attention, learning declines. Students may try to pay attention, but the gravitational pull of their phones is just too great. Between the alerts, the messages, the apps and the games, it’s extremely difficult for even the most diligent students to resist the urge to check their devices. We can all agree that something must be done.
A
communities, access to smartphones is more than just play; it is a lifeline to work and needed resources.
s we discuss their challenges in schools, we can’t overlook their benefits.
Hochul frames phones as a public health threat, justifying government intervention. However, we must consider parental choice and respect the principle of local control. Schools need to work with teachers, families and students to co-construct “rules of engagement” for student smartphone use. We also need to understand the perspectives of all stakeholders before we make decisions that alter the way students navigate their day at schools.
are also significant. Storing thousands of phones every day will present logistical and financial burdens for schools that are already stretched thin. While the state proposes funding for storage solutions, the ongoing costs of staffing and implementation remain a concern. Moreover, how will schools facilitate communication between parents and children in emergencies? These logistical hurdles underscore the need for careful planning and collaboration.
But as we discuss the challenges of phones in schools, we cannot overlook the benefits they provide. Teachers may utilize phones during class for instant feedback, and students rely on them when their school-issued devices malfunction or are unavailable. Additionally, some families rely on the access to their teens for coordinating child care or work schedules. In lower-income
We should teach students to be responsible young adults, with the ability to self-regulate, by fostering opportunities for them to do so. By teaching them from a young age to manage their phones, we empower them with lifelong skills that they will need in order to succeed in most workplaces. During these conversations with family members, we will undoubtedly find that one-size solutions will not fit every district. Instead, school leaders, in consultation with teachers, parents and students, should be able to develop their own solutions.
The practical implications of a ban
Many districts already have cellphone policies in place. These models, along with input from all stakeholders, should inform the development of targeted strategies that work for them. Let’s allow schools the flexibility to develop plans that are responsive to the unique needs of their communities.
The goal is to create safe and productive learning environments in which children are free from the distracting influence of their phones. This requires open communication, mutual respect, and a commitment to finding solutions that work for everyone. By fostering collaboration and empowering local communities, we can effectively address the challenges of smartphone use in schools.
Monique Darrisaw-Akil is superintendent of the Uniondale Union Free School 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 psychotherapist 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.
Anxiety 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.
Now anti-anxiety tactics and treatments are freely marketed and talked about and posted.
A nd its treatment is big business. Anti-anxiety messaging is endless.
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.
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.
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 “shell-shocked,” and ostracized.
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 work, sometimes and to some
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.
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.
RANDi KREiss MoNiQUE DARRisAW-AKiL
Established
Incorporating
Editor
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 University leaders should not remain neutral
after the congressional hearings that challenged university presidents on campus activism amid allegations of antisemitism, many institutions adopted policies of “institutional neutrality.” Boards of trustees resolved that they would not comment on political issues such as international conflicts, investments in certain countries, and policies proposed by elected officials. Many of the resolutions cited principles enunciated by the University of chicago.
According to the chicago principles, university leaders should not engage in speech that would appear to infringe on others’ speech. the university should be a protected, neutral place for the expression of all ideas, a safe space for “strong disagreement, independent judgment, and the questioning of stubborn assumptions.”
(“Report on the University’s Role in Political and social Action,” University of chicago, 1967.) there are good reasons for this. When a board or president issues a statement, it can stifle contrary views; it can suppress debate. this would violate the university’s responsibility to foster
critical thinking. Making statements about some issues, but not others, could indicate that some deserve comment but others do not.
But the Kalven Report, which affirmed the University of chicago’s mission of free inquiry and independence, did not prohibit leaders from commenting on public policies that would affect institutional autonomy and the freedom of scholars to pursue truth no matter where that pursuit may lead. so, “no” to taking partisan positions, but “yes” to evaluating proposals such as those in the much-discussed Project 2025, prepared by the Heritage Foundation, that infringe on the purposes of education.
tAnd it is the home for critical thinking and critics who ask “why?” and “why not?” in these ways, a university is as much about the advancement of ethical character and engaged citizenship as it is about preparation for careers and commerce.
he muchdiscussed Project 25 infringes on the purposes of education.
i agree with these principles. neutrality does not mean silence. A campus president should not remain silent in the face of proposals that would undermine free speech. A university president has an obligation to question proposals that would undercut quality controls. it is the responsibility of a president and the board to protect the university as the home of critics even as it is not itself a voice of criticism.
A university has three fundamental roles. it is the creator of new knowledge as well as of new professionals. it is the curator of knowledge in all its forms.
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
Across the country, governors and state legislators promote policies that proscribe what subjects can be taught and what books can be read. Project 2025 is a “blueprint” for multiple changes in federal policy related to knowledge and expertise. it alleges, without evidence, a radical leftwing bias in university teaching. At the same time, it would require a selective teaching of American history by omitting mention of race and slavery. it also would substitute religious belief for scientific evidence, including weather forecasting and study of the environment. it would substitute political tests for professional expertise, stifling critical thinking and free speech.
the Project calls for the abolition of the U.s. Department of education, and reclassifying federal scientists as political appointees. it would turn over consumer protections from predatory proprietary schools to the states and retract the “borrower-defense” provisions of the federal loan system put in place to protect students from for-profit schools
and lenders.
Project 2025 also calls for eliminating Head start; overhauling the educational accreditation system, reducing its political neutrality; and rolling back title iX protections for sexual assault survivors and LGBtQ students. it calls for prosecuting all government agencies, colleges, corporations and other private employers that maintain diversity policies.
Public education was established to ensure an informed citizenry, essential to a functioning democracy. Project 2025 would deny freedoms in favor of authoritarian dictates. instead of supporting public education, it would allow for the banning of books and restrictions on independent inquiry.
Project 2025 should be studied and debated. We should affirm the purpose and benefits of education to society and the individual. Project 2025 limits rights, opposes inconvenient history and science, and would impose biased views. We can be passionate in the defense of academic values without becoming politically partisan. only by advocating for freedom of inquiry and free speech will we preserve them, and our democracy. on this, university leaders should not be neutral.
Dr. Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and co-author of “Letters to Students: What it Means to be a College Graduate,” Rowman & Littlefield, 2024.
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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