Baldwin Herald 10-23-2025

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald

Plaza Elementary School students unveil A.I.-generated portraits depicting themselves in their future dream careers.

Fifth-graders surprised by A.I. art

Plaza Elementary students look at their future selves

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Plaza Elementary School students were in for a big surprise on Oct. 16 when they discovered that their dreams had come to life — in artificial intelligence-generated art form. The fifth-graders’ images, reimagined as their future selves in the careers they aspire to, were unveiled as part of an innovative project that combines technology, creativity and career readiness.

Originally planned as small paper prints for classroom display, the portraits were instead transformed into 24-by-36-inch vinyl posters lining outside the fence of the school. The large-scale installation — a surprise for both teachers and students — was

inspired by a districtwide initiative launched last month.

“During our welcome back, we transformed teachers, faculty and staff into superheroes using A.I.,” Baldwin School District Superintendent Anthony Mignella said. “Because the work that teachers and educators do — they really are superheroes. They change lives.”

Soon afterward, fifth-grade teachers at Plaza Elementary decided to bring that same inspiration to their students. Each child shared their dream job — from doctor to cosmetologist, nurse to military officer — and described the skills they believed would help them succeed. Using A.I., the teachers created side-by-side portraits of the students as

Let’s piece a mural together Artist Gabriella Grama leading public in mural creation

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Baldwin Public Library and mosaic artist Gabriella Grama are inviting community members to take part in a hands-on public art project that will leave a lasting mark inside the library.

Under the guidance of Grama, participants will help assemble a large-scale mural depicting an underwater scene titled “Octavia.” The first community workshop took place on Oct. 19 and the final one will be held this Sunday, giving residents an opportunity to collaborate on a work of art that will be permanently on display.

’m

that something I create with this community will become a permanent part of the library.”

The mosaic mural will feature a large octopus — a symbol Grama chose for its intelligence, creativity, and connection to the ocean. The piece also carries a message of environmental awareness.

so honored they chose to work with me.

G

ABRIEll A GRAMA Artist

The project is supported by a grant facilitated through an arts council, which connected Grama with the Baldwin library. Grama said she could not share further details about the sponsorship at this time.

“The library immediately said yes, and I’m so honored they chose to work with me,” Grama said. “It feels incredible

“I wanted to bring attention to the need to protect our oceans and our planet,” she said. “This mural isn’t just art — it’s a reminder of our responsibility to care for the environment. And like an octopus made from many small tiles, it also represents how people can come together to create something beautiful.”

Grama, a fulltime artist who has exhibited widely across Long Island, has more than two decades of experience in the arts. She began her career as an artist working in stained glass before discovering mosaics about 12 years ago. Since then, she has trained in Italy, Greece and Croatia, and

ContInuEd on PAgE 27

What to expect in November at Baldwin Library

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Baldwin Public Library is welcoming

1Silent Submarine Service: History & Recollection of a Navy Veteran.

Thursday, Nov. 13, 7:00–8:00 p.m.

Edward A. Sierra will share his experiences aboard a nuclear-powered fast attack submarine and review early submarine history. Participants will hear about his journey from boot camp to serving as a Navy nuclear propulsiontrained electrical operator aboard the U.S.S. Billfish. Registration for Baldwin School District residents begins Thursday, Oct. 16; all others may register beginning Thursday, Oct. 23.

2

Meet Nationally Recognized Audiobook Narrator Helen Laser.

November with a variety of programs designed to inspire, connect, and educate the community. From history talks and creative projects to music and gaming, there’s some -

Friday, Nov. 21, 2:00–3:00 p.m.

Accomplished audiobook narrator and actress Helen Laser will discuss the impact of AI on the audiobook industry and her work as a narrator and voiceover artist. An Audie Award finalist and winner of multiple Audiofile Earphones Awards, Laser has narrated for Audible Studios, Penguin Random House, Hachette, Simon & Schuster, and more. Registration for Baldwin School District residents begins Friday, Oct. 31; all others may register beginning Friday, Nov. 7.

3

Students Rebuild: Unique & United.

Students will explore their iden-

thing for every age and interest this month. Here are some highlights this month:

tities and create projects to celebrate uniqueness or build unity across communities. Projects can include visual art, writing, performance, digital media, or STEM. Each submission earns three hours of community service and generates a $5 donation to global organizations fostering connection and change. Art can be emailed to teens@baldwinpl.org.

4

ROBLOX: Tycoon/Obstacle Course Challenge (Grades 3–6). Saturday, Nov. 8, 1:00 p.m.

Presented by Arrayscape Gaming Join fellow ROBLOX fans in person and compete in Tycoon and Obstacle Course (“Obby”) games. Individual iPads will be provided. Registration for Baldwin

School District residents begins Saturday, Oct. 25; all others may register beginning Saturday, Nov. 1.

5

Sunday Music: Folkestra. Sunday, Nov. 16, 2:00–3:00 p.m. Folkestra performs folk songs from regions around the globe, including Puerto Rico, Benin, Haiti, Greece, and Eastern Europe, celebrating the richness of world traditions. Members include Baldwin musicians Sara Hill, Mary Zervos, Scott Gramlich, Adam Erdos, Wendy Garfield, and Marilyn Pignataro. Tickets required; available at the Reference Desk beginning Sunday, Oct. 19. Call 516-2236228, ext. 145 to reserve by phone.

Diwali celebration at Baldwin library

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Baldwin’s Subrina Singh brought Diwali to the Baldwin Public Library last weekend with expanded programming for children and teens, drawing families from across the community.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural “Let’s Learn About Diwali” program, Singh developed three separate events tailored to different age groups. On Saturday, Oct. 18, the library hosted back-to-back programs — one for students in kindergarten through third grade and another for fourth- through seventh-graders. A special program for teens was held the following day.

Singh estimated that about 20 students and their families attended each program, reflecting growing interest in the celebration.

“It was definitely a success,” she said. “A lot of people were new to town, and this gave them a chance to connect with other families and learn what Baldwin has to offer.”

Activities were designed for each age group. Kindergarten through third-grade students completed prepackaged crafts, decorating small “dia plates” with foam stickers and gems. Fourth- through seventh-graders painted diyas and discussed the significance of the Festival of Lights. Teens enjoyed a more social environment with Indian food, henna art, and creative activities, allowing them to celebrate together in a peerfocused space.

“Although I was not in attendance, I heard it was a great success,” Mariel DePalma, head of teens at the Baldwin Public Library said. “Everyone enjoyed themselves and it was very busy here.”

“Even the teens wanted to do the crafts, and it was wonderful to see them enjoying this with their friends,” Singh said. “One high school senior came up at the end to thank me for creating a space where they could celebrate together. Moments like that make it all worthwhile.”

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu holidays, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Singh hopes to continue building the program in future years and eventually expand the teen space to accommodate more participants.

”This is clearly a want and need of the community,” Singh said. “I’m excited to see it grow and to continue sharing cultural traditions with our students and families.”

Peace of Mind

In the midst of abundance such as we have never known, why are so many people unhappy? It may be that pursuing happiness is too vague a concept. Instead, we recommend pursuing peace of mind. Peace of mind can be found by eliminating those situations or circumstances that are preventing you from achieving it. Impossible, you say? Not if you are determined to fnd a way. Someone once said, “Tell me what it is that you want that you can’t have, and I’ll ask you what it is you aren’t willing to do.”

Recently, a client contacted me for advice on a family matter. She was the executor of an estate where the decedent had been in a second marriage and the two families were bickering over an old motorcycle, some personal effects and a relatively small amount of money. She wanted out as executor but her brothers wanted to fght. I asked her brothers whether they wanted peace of mind or to be right, since they couldn’t have both. They fnally relented.

Too many people want the thing but are un-

willing to pay the price. You want out of the relationship or situation but the other side is asking too much? Pay the price and get on with your life, it’s worth it. It doesn’t have to be fair, it just has to get done. Emerson said “Do the thing and you will have the power.”

Many of the issues we see people grappling with involve fghting something or someone in a way that resembles Don Quixote tilting at the windmill. They are fghting all by themselves. We say “stop fghting”. Let it go.

We also meet a great many worriers. Worried about everything all the time. Perhaps it is no more than a bad habit. Why do we say that? Whenever we solved a client’s worry, they immediately started worrying about something else! Churchill recounted a dying friend telling him, “You know, Winston, I had a lot of troubles in my life. Most of which never happened.”

Finally, from the Canadian thinker, Brian Tracy, “Set peace of mind as your highest goal, and organize your life around it”

Crime Brief

Man arrested for gun possession

A Baldwin man was arrested last Wednesday night in West Hempstead for criminal possession of a gun.

According to a release from the Nassau County Police Department, on Oct. 15 at 8:27 p.m. officers with the strategic response team responded to a 911 call at 256 Grand Avenue stating a gun was displayed.

Upon arriving at the scene, police observed a large group of people and a 2016 white BMW with its engine idling and a man leaning against the vehicle. Officers activated their emergency lights to conduct an investigation.

Once officers exited their vehicle, Tyrese Ashley, 24, of Roosevelt, attempted to flee and was placed under arrest a short time later by additional responding officers.

The man driving the BMW attempted to reverse and leave the scene but was stopped by officers. The release states he began to make “furtive movements,” suggesting the driver was acting nervously, and grabbing onto a bag he was wearing on his body.

Officers requested him to exit the car when the man became combative and a

physical struggle ensued. Johnathan Romage, 21, of Baldwin, was placed into custody with assistance from additional responding officers.

A loaded 9mm handgun was recovered from Romage’s bag.

During the investigation, Alyssa Horgan, 20, of West Hempstead, became combative, ran at officers and kicked an officer in the knee. She was then arrested.

The officer was transported to an area hospital for evaluation and treatment.

Romage was charged with six counts criminal possession of a weapon, unlawful assembly, and obstructing governmental administration. Horgan was charged with assault, unlawful assembly and obstructing governmental administration. Ashley was charged with obstructing governmental administration.

All three were arraigned in First District Court on Thursday and pleaded not guilty on all charges. They will all return to court on varied dates in this week, following press time.

— Madison Gusler

News Brief

Hempstead continues free car seat safety

The Town of Hempstead is continuing its Child Car Seat Safety Inspection Program this fall, offering families free opportunities to ensure their car seats are properly installed and safe for children.

Remaining inspection dates are on Oct. 26 at Forest City Community Park in Wantagh and Oct. 29 at Maclaren Stadium in Levittown. Appointments are required and available between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/baldwin

Families can schedule by calling the Department of Public Safety at (516) 5381900 ext. 7709, Monday through Friday.

■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: baldwineditor@liherald.com

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Showcasing their future selves with A.I.

they are now and as they imagine themselves in the future.

“When the students came back to school, the teachers wanted to inspire and motivate them,” Mignella said. “They talked about what skills they have that will make them successful later in life — and then used A.I. to bring that to life.”

The surprise unveiling last week, coordinated by Principal Mark Gray and his staff, was difficult to pull off, Mignella said.

“Some of the hardest part was keeping the secret from the teachers and the kids,” he said with a smile. “They had no idea this was coming.”

Each student poster is labeled with “Class of 2033,” and will serve as a keepsake they can take with them when they move on to middle school. “It’s always something they can hang in their room or their house to remind them that they have a goal when they graduate,” Mignella said.

Gray said the project represents what education should always strive to do — help students achieve aspirations.

“At all times, dreams have to be at the center of what we’re doing as teachers and educators,” Gray said. “Any time we can put their dreams at the center and build our instruction around that is important. We want them to know we’re dreaming along with them — that’s how important their dreams are to us.”

The project, Gray added, also reflects the goals of Baldwin 2035, the district’s long-term vision for preparing students for the future. “You have students thinking about what they want to be in the future, and as educators we’re always trying to build curriculum and programs around where kids are headed,” he said. “By listening to them and understanding what it is

they want to do, we’re able to meet their needs.”

Seeing and hearing how excited the students were during the unveiling was a highlight, Gray recounted. “That’s what an administrator lives for — to hear joy from their kids, whether you see it or you hear it,” he said. “Today we got to see both. It felt a little like unwrapping presents under the tree. They had a great time, and I’m always happy for them to have that experience.”

Fifth grade math teacher Jacqueline Sarfati-McCauley said that seeing her students’ reactions was the most rewarding part of the day.

“This was actually beautiful,” Sarfati-McCauley said. “To see them physically visualize themselves as their future career is probably the most incredible

thing, and watching their reaction made it completely worth it.”

Fifth-grader Alex Arreaza said his dream is to become a soccer player. Viewing his future self was a little scary, he admitted, but also motivating. “I just want to make my family proud,” said Alex, who is of Guatemalan decent.

Mignella said the project tied directly into the district’s “Future Ready” mission, which emphasizes skills like creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.

“This is all about future competency,” he said. “The students are looking at their future roles, and they need to know what competencies they’ll need to be successful in that role.”

SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

EAST MEADOW Senior FIELD HOCKEY

PICKING UP WHERE she left off last fall when she earned All-County honors, Ventura has reached new heights while leading the Jets to a 10-2 start in Nassau Conference II field hockey. Through Oct. 16, the Adelphi University bound standout was leading the county in goals with 20 to go along with 8 assists. She began 2025 with a bang, scoring all three of East Meadow’s goals in a win over New Hyde Park. Ventura has more than 50 career goals.

GAMES TO WATCH

Friday, Oct. 24

Football: Seaford at Island Trees 5 p.m.

Football: Farmingdale at Port Washington 6 p.m.

Football: Freeport at Oceanside

Football:

Football:

Football:

Football:

Football:

Football: Plainedge at Malverne

Saturday, Oct. 25

Football: South Side at V.S. South 11

Football: Wantagh at Carey 11 a.m.

Football: Clarke at Floral Park 11 a.m.

Football: V.S. North at Elmont

Football: Garden City at Calhoun

Football: Baldwin at Mepham

Football: New Hyde Park at Kennedy

Football: Roslyn at V.S. Central 2 p.m.

Football: Lynbrook at C.S. Harbor 2 p.m.

Football: East Rockaway at Locust Valley 2 p.m.

Football: West Hempstead at North Shore 2 p.m.

Football: Lawrence at Oyster Bay 2 p.m.

Football: Syosset at Massapequa

Football: Herricks at Uniondale 3

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall 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.

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

HERALD SPORTS

Baldwin stays perfect, chases title

By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com

Baldwin’s girls’ volleyball team is on its way to clinching the No. 1 seed in the Nassau Class AAA playoffs, as the Bruins sit 11-0 in conference play.

On Oct. 7, Baldwin beat Valley Stream Central on the road, 25-16, 25-11 and 25-13. Senior outside hitter and captain Kennedy Thompson recorded 13 kills, as she continues to climb the ladder for most kills in Nassau. Her season-high kill total came against Uniondale in the team’s first meeting on Sept. 9 and she’s ninth in the county with 116.

“The second time around, our team got better,” said Baldwin coach Tuan Nguyen. “We improve every day, we work really hard every day. So the second time [against an opponent] we can look forward to getting better and better toward the end of the season.”

The Bruins matched up against Uniondale at home Oct. 9, and came out victorious 25-20, 28-26 and 25-13.

“That’s the second time we met Uniondale and they came out strong, but we settled down and focused on the game,” Nguyen said. “We got back the first set and second set, [but] we struggled a little bit in the beginning and tried to get momentum again.”

Uniondale has been the only opponent to win a set against Baldwin.

“That was the first time we played them at their home school and we were kind of still trying to figure out what our lineup was,” Nguyen said. “That’s like the first half of the season. We definitely improved a lot the second time.”

In the Bruins’ second meeting against Uniondale, Sabrah Folkes recorded 13 kills. She’s 22nd in the county in kills with 91. Folkes is also second in the county in aces with 55. She has two matches with a season-high 20 aces against Westbury last Saturday, in a sweep.

“They’re both tremendous help for us this year and their skill level has improved tremendously since last year,” Nguyen said of Thompson and Folkes. “So, that’s definitely the main reason we’re doing so well.”

Senior Kennedy Thompson is a major reason why the Bruins are on the verge of a perfect regualr season and top playoff seed.

Of Baldwin’s final three matches to end the regular season, one is against East Meadow, which is in second place.

The Bruins took the first meeting, 25-20, 25-22 and 25-20. Senior setter Mia Randazzo shone in that match, recording 15 assists and five digs. She’s ranked 20th in Nassau in assists with 143. She recorded a season-high 23 assists against Westbury on Sept. 17.

“She’s my number one setter and she’s improved tremendously,” Nguyen said.

“She helps the outside hitter with the set.”

The Bruins aren’t just a three-girl wrecking crew, as seniors in middle blocker Gabrielle Vandterpool and right side hitter Ava Jerome, junior Mikayla Lorusso and sophomore libero Shelly Rivera have all contributed to the undefeated season.

The No. 1 playoff seed and a perfect regular season is in the sights for Baldwin, as the Bruins take on East Meadow on the road on Oct. 28 at 6:45 p.m.

News brief

Baldwin podcast launches its seventh season

The Baldwin Bruins Sports Podcast is back for its seventh season, bringing fresh faces and a new role to keep weekly episodes on track.

For the 2025-2026 school year, the podcast is co-hosted by Sabrah Folkes, Ava Jerome, Mia Randazzo, and Soren York. David Kreutz joins the team in a newly created role as researcher, providing comprehensive updates on Baldwin athletics, reviewing past events, and previewing upcoming competitions. Craig “CJ” Graham serves as editor and producer, overseeing each episode to maintain high-quality standards.

What started as a senior internship has grown into a popular extracurricular program. The podcast operates under the guidance of Baldwin High School business teacher Gregg Kelley.

“I enjoy working with dedicated students and sharing vital information about Baldwin Athletics with the community,” Kelley said. “I am proud that this is our seventh season.”

The program has received recognition for its innovation, earning multiple accolades including Best High School

Broadcast and Best Podcast in the annual Best of Long Island competition. The student-run initiative remains at the forefront of high school sports coverage on Long Island.

Listeners can access the podcast through the district’s website and on platforms including Spotify, Anchor, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Overcast, Radio Public, and Stitcher.

— -Hernesto Galdamez

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Aloise, a prosecutor, hopes to become D.A.

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Nicole Aloise, a Democrat running for Nassau County district attorney, is focusing her campaigning on public safety, community investment, and experience forged in courtrooms.

“I firmly believe in the job of a prosecutor,” she said. “It’s all I’ve done in my career.”

Aloise, 41, has worked as a prosecutor for 16 years in both Nassau and Queens, most recently as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her legal career in 2008 after graduating from St. John’s University School of Law. While in Queens, she secured more than 20 violent felony convictions and helped establish case law by making use of NYPD body camera footage for the first time in a trial in New York City.

Aloise moved with her family from Astoria to Garden City in 2019. From 2019 to 2023, she prosecuted homicides and violent felonies as senior litigation counsel in the Nassau D.A.’s office. She returned to Queens for a brief period before stepping down in 2024 to launch her campaign.

Despite its staff of hundreds, one of the largest D.A.’s offices in the country, it has fallen behind, Aloise said. “The office now being run,” she said, “is not appropriate for a 2025 D.A.’s office.”

She criticized what she called a lack of courtroom experience in the office’s current leadership, and said that has led to high staff turnover. The issues that are central to her platform include strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau, especially when it comes to antisemitic and anti-Asian attacks; sup-

porting a statewide “death by dealer” law to hold drug suppliers accountable in fatal overdoses; and increasing funding for youth, mental health and violence prevention programs. Aloise has also pledged to pursue tougher prosecutions in drunken-driving cases, and expanding cooperation

‘It’s been my life’s work,’ Anne

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

For Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, pursuing justice and supporting crime victims isn’t just a job — it’s a passion.

“It’s been my life’s work,” she said. “I have worked in every bureau in the office. I have been a boss, a supervisor, and I’m very passionate about what we do.”

Donnelly, 61, a Republican and a longtime prosecutor, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become district attorney — the fourth consecutive woman to hold the office. A Garden City resident who graduated from Fordham Law School in 1989, she is seeking a second term on a platform of public safety, gang enforcement and law enforcement support.

Since taking office in 2022, Donnelly has created three county law enforcement units. The Firearms Suppression and Intelligence Unit, focuses on illegal gun sales and weapons trafficking.

“We’ve had an uptick of guns being taken off the street, and I wanted to know why,” she said. The Pharmaceutical Diversion and Cybercrimes Unit targets opioid diversion by medical professionals and prosecutes cybercrimes, including dark web activity. The Hate

DISTRICT ATTORNEY

with local police departments. “I’ve got the best experience to be in this job,” she said, “because I won’t be asking anybody to do something I myself personally haven’t done, and I will know what resources and guidelines to put into place to make sure they’re successful.”

Like the Republican incumbent, Anne Donnelly, Aloise has criticized New York’s 2020 discovery and bail reform laws. “It absolutely makes our job harder,” she said. “I’ve been outspoken about these laws since prior to their inception.”

But, she noted, she successfully worked under the same rules in Queens, and argued that the county badly needs an upgraded functioning discovery system. “They have one in Queens,” she added. “They have one in Suffolk.”

“I won’t run a stagnant office,” Aloise said. “I’ve got the passion, I’ve got the energy and I’ve got the vision to make the Nassau’s district attorney’s office one of the premier offices in the country — because we have the resources, if used correctly.”

Donnelly says

Tim Baker/Herald

Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly is seeking a second term as the county’s top prosecutor.

Crimes Unit is tasked with investigating bias-motivated violence and boosting community outreach, training and reporting.

“There’s always going to be crime,” Donnelly said. “The important aspect of maintaining or keeping Nassau safe

is to target the crimes that we see increases in.” She has been an outspoken critic of New York state’s bail reform and Clean Slate laws, which she described “problematic,” and argued they allow repeat offenders back onto the streets.

She also raised concerns about the state’s discovery reform law, passed in 2020, which requires prosecutors to quickly share evidence with defense attorneys. Under the law, prosecutors originally had 20 to 35 days after a defendant’s arraignment, depending on pretrial custody, to provide all evidence — with a possible 30-day extension.

“It’s not like we’re trying to hide anything from them,” Donnelly said. “Getting all the information within the window is the challenge.” A 2025 amendment now allows cases to proceed if prosecutors show “good faith and due diligence” in providing evidence.

On the subject of the 2019 bail reform law, which eliminated cash bail for many non-violent offenses, she pointed to aggravated animal abuse and DWI as examples of “violent and dangerous” offenses that don’t meet the law’s definition of violence.

With nearly 250 attorneys and a staff of more than 450, the Nassau County district attorney’s office is one of the largest in the country. Donnelly said that her management experience stands in contrast to her challenger in next month’s election, Democrat Nicole Aloise. “She’s a very nice person, but has never managed one person,” Donnelly said. “I don’t think she’s the person for it. I think I am.”

Show Off Your Little Fans!

Snap a photo of your “Little Fan“ in their favorite football, hockey or any sports gear or outfit and enter our Little Fans Photo Contest!

Whether it’s your pet in a jersey or child in their favorite team’s colors, we want to see how you get into the sport spirit!

Scan the QR code to submit your photo today for a chance to win a pair of New York Islanders tickets to a game this season and be featured in your Long Island Herald.

Contest Ends 11/20/25

The Island F.C. kicks off its future on Long Island

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

The global game is coming to Uniondale as The Island F.C., an independent professional soccer club, was unveiled, alongside plans for a new stadium.

The team, launched by principal owner and chairman Mitchell Rechler and team president Peter Zaratin, is set to debut in March 2027 and will compete in MLS Next Pro, the professional development league of Major League Soccer.

“This is something that did not happen overnight,” Rechler said on Oct. 14 at the Long Island Children’s Museum in Uniondale. “We have been working on bringing pro soccer to Long Island for 18 years.”

Rechler is a managing partner of Rechler Equity Partners, one of the largest real estate developers on Long Island. Zaration, a former soccer player, is the founder and CEO of Global Concepts, a metropolitan area-based sports management company.

Rechler and Zaratin also revealed their plans to build a privately funded outdoor 2,500-seat stadium — which can be increased to fit 5,000 — at Mitchel Athletic Complex, also in Uniondale.

Preseason games for the Island FC are set to begin in January 2027. Organizers confirmed that the launch was strategically timed to build on the anticipated “national surge in soccer enthusiasm,” after the 2026 FIFA World Cup in MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The team is estimated to be around $25 million undertaking. Around $20 million will be devoted for the new year-round training facility and around $5 million to launch the club. Stadium designs are anticipated to be released over the next few months, with the intent of breaking ground next spring.

“Over the last few years, we heard consistently

about the strength, resilience and pride of Long Islanders,” MLS Next Pro President Ali Curtis said, adding that “Long Island is unique because while it’s its own community, the special people that live here are from all over the world, and soccer brings people together and is the universal language.”

Alongside the launch of a professional team, expanding opportunities for younger players to grow and succeed is another priority of the venture. Enhanced scholarship programs and a strengthened youth-college-pro pathway will be designed to help aspiring athletes to pursue their goals.

Plans are also underway to return a professional

women’s soccer team to Long Island

“We’re building a legacy for Long Island,” Zaratin said, adding that the team’s mission is to “empower aspiring soccer players through an Island-wide development pathway that ensures every player–regardless of background or gender, can reach their full potential in the game.”

Several elected officials attended the announcement. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said that it was an honor “to have a professional soccer team right here in Nassau County, which will provide dynamic entertainment and create economic prosperity.”

Senator Siela Bynoe hosts Health Fair

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN

agriffin@liherald.com

New York State Senator Siela Bynoe, in partnership with Mayor Francis X. Murray, offered a Senior Health Fair at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center in Rockville Centre. This free event was created for connecting older residents with well-informed and healthy resources.

“Our seniors are the pillars of the community,” Bynoe said. “That’s why it is important that we create access and elevate awareness regarding important services related to senior health.”

Dozens visited the recreation center on Oct. 3 to take in all that was offered. Numerous vendors, including Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, came out to share their resources with the community. The Hospital provided Flu vaccines and health screenings such as cholesterol, blood pressure, BMI, diabetes risk assessment and stroke risk assessment.

Abigail Fromm, Director of Community Education at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, discussed the importance of coming out into the community: “It’s really hard for other people to go to healthcare facilities. We know that access is really not that easy anymore, whether it’s something due to insurance, transportation or other reasons.”

A wide variety of organizations set up tables within the center to offer information and resources connecting them to the healthcare and wellbeing residents may need. Among those was the Sandel Senior Center, which provides senior residents of Rockville Centre with essential services for them and their families.

“Our senior citizens in our community are very important,” Debbie Cuevas, a senior citizen program

development aid at Sandel Senior Center, said. “They have a wealth of knowledge and I feel that to be around our seniors is something that you just can’t replace. It’s very crucial to our community and for our young people to learn from their experience and carry on their traditions.”

When it comes to legalities, Rhonda L. Maco, managing attorney, was there to help seniors with elder care and life estates services. “I assist with overall health and just making sure you have the appropriate documents and in place for your family,” she said. “That way you can protect your assets, understand

what type of benefits you may be qualified for and just making sure that you have all the things in place so that way you and your next of kin will be protected.”

Attendees walked through the fair over four hours to take the provided information and resources offered to them.

“We showcased information about medical alert systems, Able-Ride, and free health screenings and flu shots,” Bynoe said. “It’s wonderful that local healthcare providers like Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital and Nassau University Medical Center were able to offer their services.”

VOTERS GUIDE 2025

Candidate profiles, ballot Information and more inside! LOCAL ELECTIONS

tOWn OF HeMPsteaD sUPervisOr

Republican John Ferretti, appointed Hempstead Town Supervisor in August following Don Clavin’s resignation, is running to retain the position with a focus on fiscal discipline, public safety, and community values.

On the issues:

A former Nassau County legislator, Ferretti, a lifelong Levittown resident, has emphasized his record of opposing tax increases and supporting responsible budgeting.

officials to increase patrols at houses of worship and co-authored legislation to prevent individuals from concealing their identities during acts of intimidation.

In addition to his focus on safety and fiscal management, Ferretti has positioned himself as a defender of suburban neighborhoods, opposing proposals for high-density housing developments he believes would alter the character of local communities.

Democrat Joe Scianablo, a Marine combat veteran, former NYPD officer, and prosecutor, is running for Town of Hempstead supervisor with a pledge to restore transparency, lower taxes, and hold local government accountable.

During his tenure, he led efforts to reduce county taxes by $70 million and block $150 million in proposed hikes. He has said government should operate within its means, similar to the financial discipline of local families.

Ferretti’s platform highlights a commitment to maintaining public safety and supporting law enforcement. As a legislator, he helped expand police presence, reopen a closed precinct, and invest in advanced public safety technology. He also worked with town

Before his election to public office, Ferretti served as Chief Deputy County Clerk, overseeing a staff of more than 100 employees and managing over $240 million in annual revenue.

Ferretti has also prioritized strengthening community infrastructure and ensuring that development and town policies reflect the needs and values of local residents, supporting initiatives that preserve open spaces and enhance the quality of life in Hempstead.

Scianablo, a Garden City resident, says families across the town are feeling the strain of rising costs, from a 12 percent property tax hike to increases in water, power, and fuel bills. He is calling for a full financial audit of all departments, a freeze on nonessential spending, and new measures to root out waste and corruption.

On the issues:

Joseph Scianablo Party: Democrat

If elected, Scianablo said his first 100 days would include converting all town streetlights to LED to save $1 million annually, implementing zero-based budgeting where every dollar is justified, and exploring shared services with nearby towns to eliminate duplicate

LegisLative District 1

costs. His platform emphasizes “commonsense solutions,” including proactive infrastructure maintenance, performance-based funding, and energy efficiency upgrades. He has also vowed to hold monthly town halls and establish resident oversight to keep taxpayers informed.

Scianablo said improving public safety and supporting veterans would also be key priorities. Drawing on his law enforcement background, he aims to strengthen trust between communities and public safety departments. As a Marine veteran, he wants to expand access to healthcare, housing, and employment programs for fellow veterans.

He has also criticized the closure of the Safe Center and pledged to expand domestic violence services by working with Nassau County and community partners.

Charlene Jackson Thompson, 59, brings a wide-ranging background to her campaign for Nassau County’s 1st Legislative District. With experience as an attorney, government official, consultant and longtime community advocate, she is now running as the Republican candidate for the newly redrawn district. A Roosevelt native and graduate of Uniondale High School, Thompson made history as the first Black Homecoming queen at the College of William and Mary before earning her law degree from Howard University. Today, she serves as a deputy county attorney, handling child welfare cases on behalf of Nassau County.

On the issues:

Throughout her career, Thompson has consistently prioritized community engagement, working with people across backgrounds and meeting them where they are. Her public service has spanned both Democratic and

Republican administrations, including leadership roles in housing and economic development. She has also prosecuted child abuse cases and led a consulting firm focused on grants and regulatory compliance. Her work is guided by a traumainformed and collaborative approach that places the well-being of individuals and families at the forefront. Thompson identifies as a conservative and acknowledges the challenges that come with holding views that may not align with the majority in her community. She said she has remained in the Republican Party because she believes in the importance of political diversity and feels that communities are best served when they do not align exclusively with one party. Her campaign is focused on increasing access to affordable housing, improving infrastructure and strengthening civic engagement across the district.

Scott Davis, 63, a longtime Rockville Centre resident who grew up in Hempstead, was elected in 2023 to represent Nassau County’s Legislative District 1. Now seeking re-election, Davis reflects on a first term shaped by active community engagement and a commitment to legislative advocacy, particularly as a Democrat in the legislative minority.

As a criminal defense attorney and a firstgeneration college graduate, Davis draws on his personal background growing up biracial in Hempstead and losing his mother at a young age as the foundation for his dedication to public service.

On the issues:

During his first term, Davis said he found that his longstanding desire to serve the public found real expression through his role as legislator. He focused on building relationships throughout his district, which encompasses Rockville Centre, South Hempstead, Roosevelt, and parts of Baldwin and Hempstead. Davis said he considers his most significant legislative accomplishment to be securing $1.75 million in clean-water funding for the Village of Hempstead. The funding is aimed at addressing contamination caused by high levels of the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane. It took nearly nine months to obtain the funds, and Davis attributed the achievement to consistent advocacy and collaboration, particularly with now-State Senator Siela Bynoe. He made the issue a priority, speaking about it frequently and pushing for action at every opportunity. Looking ahead, his goals include renovating Mirschel Park in Hempstead, upgrading recreation facilities in Rockville Centre and expanding youth programs across the district. He remains enthusiastic about continuing his work and serving the community with dedication.

Party: Democrat

TOWN ClERK ElECTION ‘25

Kate Murray is running for re-election as Town Clerk of Hempstead. She was first elected to the position in 2002 and returned to the office in 2019 after serving as Hempstead Town Supervisor from 2003 to 2016, making her the first woman to hold the position.

She has also served in the New York State Assembly representing the 19th District.

On the issues:

As Town Clerk, Murray has focused on improving accessibility and convenience for residents. Her initiatives include the “One-Stop Passport Shop,” online access to permits and licenses and commuter parking permits available directly at LIRR stations. She oversaw the construction of a $6 million multipurpose center for the ANCHOR Program, which offers programs in

athletics, aquatic activities, theater, computer skills, nutrition and social engagement.

Murray’s office has also advanced renewable energy initiatives, including a green energy park and a solarpowered government office recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency for its zeroemission design.

The Town Clerk’s Office handles vital records, marriage licenses, permits, public notices, town board records, official records and historical archives dating back to 1644. The office also performs wedding ceremonies and processes applications for zoning changes, public garages, and other municipal permits.

Democratic candidate Yveline Dalmacy has not responded to requests for an interview for a roundtable.

On the issues:

COuNCIl DISTRICT 4

On the issues:

Lynbrook resident Laura Ryder brings deep community roots and decades of civic engagement to her role on the Hempstead Town Board. Appointed in March 2023 after serving as a Lynbrook Village Trustee, Ryder’s approach to governance blends hands-on public service with fiscal responsibility and a focus on neighborhood quality of life.

A paralegal at Ledwith and Atkinson and a real estate agent with Pearsall Partners Realty, Ryder combines professional know-how with a passion for helping others. During her time as village trustee, she helped manage village finances through the pandemic, championed small business growth, and supported efforts to create new housing that complemented Lynbrook’s character. Ryder’s civic leadership extends beyond

local government. She previously served on the South Nassau Water Authority and the American Water Company Community Outreach Committee, where she advocated for fair utility rates. She also represented Lynbrook on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Council, strengthening communication between residents and law enforcement.

As founder and chair of Lynbrook Cares, Ryder leads volunteers who assist seniors and residents with disabilities through home and yard maintenance projects. She also supports families in crisis through the Lynbrook Community Chest and has lent her time to numerous community causes, including the 9/11 Memorial Committee, Christopher’s Hemophilia Benefit, and the Lynbrook Beautification Committee.

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DISTRICT 1

Carelus, 55, was approached by members of the West Hempstead Republican Club and, after discussing it with his wife, decided to step forward. “She said, ‘Yeah, why not? You have some good ideas,’”

Carelus recalled in a conversation with the Herald. “And so I said, evidently, this might be the best time, since I was approached.”

Carelus is also deeply rooted in community service. For nearly 30 years, he has served as a lector at St. Thomas the Apostle Church and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. At 50, he became a volunteer firefighter and later an EMT, twice earning EMT of the Year honors.

On the issues:

For more than a quartercentury, Dorothy Goosby, 86, councilwoman of District 1 and deputy supervisor, has been a pillar of public service and a trailblazer for minority representation in the Town of Hempstead. She is now running once again for re-election.

Born in Haiti, Carelus immigrated to the United States with his family in 1977, settling in Westbury and later Hempstead. A Hempstead High School graduate, he went on to earn a master’s degree in economics from CUNY Brooklyn College.

Professionally, Carelus has spent over two decades in financial services, including roles in structured finance and consulting. He currently works for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, focusing on the risks and regulations of the insurance industry.

“The biggest thing that they want, just like at the fire service, when there’s a call, respond, show up and work with everyone there to make sure that the issues are addressed,” he said. His campaign centers on housing, taxes, and equitable access to education and services. He supports affordable housing models like the Uniondale Community Land Trust and advocates for fairer property tax grievance processes.

“There are services that are being denied to these communities,” he said. “All the while the burden of the taxes have increasingly fallen on them.”

Goosby’s journey into public office began with a fight for fair representation.

Dorothy Goosby Party: Democrat

In the late 1980s, she was the lead plaintiff in a landmark lawsuit challenging Hempstead’s at-large voting system, which had long prevented minority communities from electing their own representatives.

“We started in ’88 and it took us to 1999 in order to finally win the suit,” Goosby recalled to the Herald. The victory led to the creation of councilmanic districts, ensuring that every community had a voice at the table.

Goosby became the first African American woman to serve on the Town Board, representing Hempstead,

Uniondale, Roosevelt, and Freeport. “I go to all of them, and I check to see what’s going on,” she says. This year, Goosby’s re-election bid stands apart she is running without Nassau Democratic Party backing. Instead, supporters mounted a grassroots petition drive that gathered more than twice the 4,000 signatures required to get on the ballot.

Known for her persistence, Goosby said the key lesson of her 25-year career is “to make sure that whatever it is I need, I get it.”

“And I do,” she added, “because they don’t like to hear from me.”

Goosby’s priorities include addressing illegal dumping, promoting safer neighborhoods, and opposing highdensity housing developments she believes could strain local resources. She has also championed youth enrichment, running a summer reading program for more than two decades.

Nassau County Legislature candidate

Danielle Smikle, a Freeport native and educator, is running a campaign focused on lowering property taxes, supporting education, strengthening small businesses, and revitalizing neighborhoods across Baldwin, Freeport, and Oceanside.

LEgiSLATivE DiSTRiCT 6

Smikle, who moved from Jamaica to Freeport at age three, currently works as a college and career counselor at the Academy Charter School in Uniondale and co-owns a wellnessfocused candle business with her mother. She is running in the 6th which combines parts of her previous Assembly campaign area with Baldwin and Oceanside.

Since entering public service last year with a run for the New York State Assembly, Smikle has emphasized community-first leadership and outreach across party lines, knocking on doors of Democrats and Republicans alike to ensure voters understand their options

On the issues:

Her priorities for the Legislature include addressing high property taxes, improving housing availability, maintaining infrastructure, and fostering stronger community-police relations. On housing, Smikle advocates redeveloping vacant and underused properties to provide opportunities for younger residents without overbuilding, aiming to balance growth with neighborhood character. Infrastructure and flood preparedness are central issues in the coastal district. Smikle has stressed the importance of maintaining floodgates, repairing aging roads, and keeping public facilities safe and accessible. She has also highlighted the need for ongoing upkeep of playgrounds, pools, and community spaces to ensure residents benefit consistently Smikle hopes to build strong relationships with colleagues across party lines to implement practical solutions for the district.

Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé, a Democrat seeking her fifth term, is running a campaign centered on infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing, and community revitalization across Baldwin, Freeport, and Oceanside.

Currently representing the sixth legislative district, Mulé, first elected in 2017, has positioned herself as an advocate for public works and neighborhood improvements, emphasizing her commitment to securing long-term investments for local communities.

ELECTiON ‘25

A former Freeport village trustee and school board member, Her priorities for another term include continuing capital projects, addressing aging sewer systems, and enhancing quality of life for residents through county partnerships.

On the issues:

Infrastructure renewal has been the defining issue of Mulé’s tenure. She has championed the Grand Avenue

Maureen O’Connell, Nassau County Clerk since 2006, is seeking re-election to continue her work modernizing the office and expanding services for seniors and non-English-speaking residents. With over 30 years in public service, O’Connell brings experience as both a registered nurse and attorney, having previously served in the New York State Assembly and as Deputy Mayor of East Williston

On the issues:

Complete Streets Project, which introduced new paving, decorative lighting, safety improvements, and curb enhancements in Baldwin’s downtown. The project’s next phase aims to extend the upgrades north to the Southern State Parkway, representing more than $20 million in total investment.

Mulé’s campaign also spotlights Nassau County’s affordable housing crisis, particularly in Baldwin and Freeport. She has supported projects which include Freeport’s Moxey Rigby apartments, which reserve units for veterans and seniors and the Baldwin Commons apartment complex. Mulé views these developments as models for balancing growth and affordability across the county. Through the county’s Community Revitalization Program, Mulé has directed funding toward fire departments, school playgrounds, and local beautification projects.

NASSAU COUNTY CLERK ELECTiON ‘25

Maureen O’Connell Party: Republican

During her nearly two decades as clerk, O’Connell has overseen a major transformation of the office’s operations. Under her leadership, millions of backlogged documents were processed, and the office transitioned to a fully digitized system for court and land records. This modernization has allowed residents and attorneys to file and access official documents online, reducing the need for in-person visits.

O’Connell implemented one of the

state’s earliest Supreme Court e-filing systems and integrated digital connections with state and local agencies. She has also prioritized digitizing historical documents, making decades-old records more accessible for residents, particularly seniors who often need to retrieve property information.

In an effort to protect homeowners, O’Connell launched a Property Fraud Alert Program, allowing property owners to receive email notifications if deeds or mortgages are filed in their name, helping to prevent fraud.

If re-elected, she plans to continue digitizing older records and expand parking at the Mineola office. She also intends to further adapt services for residents who speak languages other than English, building on the existing language line currently in place.

A lifelong Nassau County resident, O’Connell lives in East Williston and teaches nursing at SUNY Farmingdale.

Joylette E. Williams, a longtime educator and community leader, is running for Nassau County Clerk with a platform focused on modernization, accessibility, and administrative efficiency. A county resident since 1993, Williams has spent over two decades in public service and education, currently serving as a professor of English at Nassau Community College and a two-term member of the Hempstead School Board.

Williams holds a Ph.D. in English and is completing a second doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Connecticut. Her academic and professional background includes extensive experience in document management, recordkeeping, and organizational leadership—skills she says directly translate to the responsibilities of the clerk’s office. Her public service includes prior roles as a Village of Hempstead trustee and current board member of the Town of

Hempstead Industrial Development Agency. Williams is also actively involved in civic organizations, including the NAACP, the Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, among others

On the issues:

If elected, Williams plans to prioritize the digitization of county records, improve online access to public documents, and expand the use of the clerk’s mobile outreach van to underserved communities. She also proposes extending office hours one day a week to better serve working residents and increasing language accessibility for non-English-speaking residents.

Williams advocates for reducing or waiving fees on property transactions for groups such as seniors, veterans, first responders, and first-time homebuyers, citing Nassau’s fees as higher than neighboring counties.

OF THE HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS PULL OUT

ELECTiON ‘25

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTiVE

On the issues:

Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is seeking a second term, emphasizing public safety, fiscal stability and preserving suburban character as the foundation of his administration. He said Nassau remains the safest large county in America, citing expanded law enforcement ranks, a stable budget and seven Wall Street bond-rating upgrades as evidence of sound fiscal management. Blakeman has repeatedly highlighted that county taxes have not increased during his tenure and that Nassau’s average home value has risen, which he sees as proof of prosperity and stability.

neighborhoods and strong schools.” On crime prevention, Blakeman defended his creation of a volunteer emergency database, which critics have called a militia, describing it instead as a vetted roster of former police and military members who could be mobilized

On the issues:

Democratic Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow, of Merrick, is running for county executive on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal accountability and restoring public trust in local government.

A central point of pride for Blakeman has been Nassau’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement the first of its kind in the country which dedicates jail space and crosstrained detectives to assist federal agents. He said the agreement improves safety and has strong support among Hispanic residents who want “safe

Blakeman continues to challenge the state’s takeover of Nassau University Medical Center, calling it “illegal” and harmful to residents who rely on it as a safetynet hospital. He contends the move is part of a broader state plan to reduce local control and diminish services. On housing, he opposes state-mandated density requirements, arguing that Nassau is already one of the nation’s most developed suburban counties and that zoning decisions should remain local.

Overall, Blakeman’s campaign message centers on fiscal prudence, public safety and protecting Nassau’s suburban quality of life.

A former Queens assistant district attorney and small business owner, Koslow said his decision to run was motivated by frustration over what he views as secrecy and mismanagement under the current administration. He cited ongoing problems at Nassau University Medical Center and the county jail as examples of a government unwilling to answer questions or plan for the future.

Seth Koslow Party: Democrat

waste and redirect resources toward infrastructure, housing and public services. He supports using county-owned properties for new mixed-use housing and simplifying the permit process for small businesses to boost local revenue without raising taxes. Koslow also said he would end Nassau’s cooperation agreement with federal immigration authorities, arguing it strains community relations and overextends county resources.

Elaine Phillips, the Republican Nassau County Comptroller, is seeking re-election on a platform centered on fiscal responsibility, government efficiency, and taxpayer protection. Since taking office in 2022, she has focused on modernizing Nassau County’s financial systems, strengthening oversight of county spending, and ensuring residents receive measurable value for their tax dollars.

Koslow criticized County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a civilian militia, saying it undermines law enforcement and creates liability, and argued that Nassau’s shortage of detectives poses a more urgent safety threat. On fiscal issues, he said the county must better track its spending, cut

On social policy, he has rejected measures like the county’s bans on transgender athletes and public masking as divisive distractions from more pressing issues of affordability and public safety. His approach, he said, would emphasize collaboration with state and regional leaders, community input on major development projects such as the Nassau Hub, and long-term planning to keep future generations living and working on Long Island.

NASSAU COUNTY COMPTROLLER ELECTiON ‘25

payments owed to Nassau County, identified inefficiencies in procurement and contract management, and implemented updated auditing procedures to prevent waste and fraud. She has also emphasized modernization, leading efforts to digitize accounting systems.

A former New York State senator representing the 7th District, Phillips previously served as mayor of Flower Hill, where she managed local budgets and enacted cost-saving reforms. Before entering public office, she built a successful career in finance with senior roles at J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and MetLife, bringing private-sector expertise to government operations.

As comptroller, Phillips has prioritized accountability and transparency in county finances. Her office has recovered millions in outstanding

On the issues: Phillips has focused on strengthening fiscal stability, monitoring contract performance, and scrutinizing the county’s partnerships with major public entities such as the MTA. She has also overseen audits addressing delayed payments to small businesses and service providers, ensuring timely reimbursements and greater financial clarity. Phillips points to her background in both finance and local government as key to her pragmatic approach to fiscal management. She has emphasized longterm planning, responsible borrowing, and efficiency-driven reforms designed to safeguard public resources.

Wayne Wink, the Democratic candidate for Nassau County Comptroller, is running on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal integrity, and restoring independence to the county’s chief financial office. With more than two decades of public service, he brings extensive legislative and administrative experience to the race.

Wayne Wink Party: Democrat

A resident of Roslyn, Wink began his career in local government on the North Hempstead Town Board, where he served from 2003 to 2007. He was later elected to the Nassau County Legislature, representing the 10th District from 2007 to 2014, which includes parts of Great Neck, East Hills, Roslyn, and Manhasset. During his tenure, he developed a reputation for fiscal diligence and constituent advocacy, focusing on responsible budgeting and government accountability.

In 2014, Wink was elected North Hempstead Town Clerk, a position he held until 2021. In that role, he oversaw

modernization of the town’s recordkeeping and licensing systems, implemented digital accessibility initiatives, and ensured compliance with open government and transparency laws. His administrative experience as clerk further solidified his focus on efficiency

On the issues: Wink has framed his campaign for comptroller around independence and transparency. He emphasizes the need for unbiased financial oversight, ensuring that county contracts, audits, and expenditures are handled with integrity and free from political influence. His platform includes expanding digital access to county financial data, improving internal controls, and strengthening collaboration with local municipalities to enhance fiscal efficiency. Wink holds a bachelor’s degree from Union College and a law degree from St. John’s University School of Law.

GENERAL ELECTION Candidates

County Executive

Ejecutivo del Condado

Amendment to Allow Olympic Sports Complex In Essex County on State Forest Preserve Land. Allows skiing and related trail facilities on state forest preserve land. The site is 1,039 acres. Requires State to add 2,500 acres of new forest land in Adirondack Park. A yes vote authorizes new ski trails and related facilities in the Adirondack forest preserve. A no vote does not authorize this use.

Enmienda para Permitir Complejo Olímpico de Deportes En el Condado de Essex en Tierra de Reserva Forestal Estatal. Permite el esquí e instalaciones relacionadas de pistas en tierra de reserva forestal estatal. El sitio es de 1,039 acres. Requiere que el Estado añade 2,500 acres de nueva tierra forestal en el Parque Adirondack. Un voto afirmativo autoriza nuevas pistas de esquí e instalaciones relacionadas en la reserva forestal Adirondack. Un voto negativo no autoriza este uso.

DEM,MOD

Seth I. Koslow

District Attorney

Fiscal del Distrito

MOD

Aloise

Comptroller

Controlador del Condado

DEM, MOD

Wayne H. Wink, Jr.

County Clerk

Secretario

DEM, MOD

Joylette E. Williams

Bruce A. Blakeman

County

R.

Maureen C. O’Connell

Hempstead Supervisor

MOD

Joe Scianablo

CON John R. Ferretti

Justice

OF THE HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS PULL OUT

ELECTIon’25

actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to reflect all the districts within the communities covered edition of the Herald. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the Herald may be found at under the Elections ’25 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com

Hempstead Council Member District 1 Vote for One (1)

Dorothy L. Goosby REP, CON Jean-Baptiste Carelus

Hempstead Town Clerk

Secretario Municipal Vote for One (1)

MOD Yveline L. Dalmacy REP, CON Kate Murray

County Legislator

District 1

Legislador del Condado Distrito 1 Vote for One (1) REP, CON

M. Davis C harlene Jackson Thompson

County Legislator

District 6

Legislador del Condado Distrito 6 Vote for One (1) REP, CON

Debra S. Mule Danielle Samantha Smikle

Justice of the Supreme Court

la Corte Suprema Vote for Eight (8) REP, CON

Kenny

Mark A. Cuthbertson

Margaret C. Reilly

Joseph C. Pastoressa

Steven A. Pilewski

James W. Malone

Carl J. Copertino

Bronwyn M. Black-Kelly

Surrogate Court Judge

Juez del Tribunal Sucesorio

David P. Sullivan DEM, REP, CON

County Court Judge

Juez de

Howard E. Sturim DEM, REP, CON

Nancy Nicotra Bednar Donald X. Clavin, Jr.

Family Court Judge

Juez del Tribunal de Familia

REP, CON

Robert E. Pipia

District Court Judge

Juez del

DEM, REP, CON Maria Boultadakis

Robert G. Bogle

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PULL OUT WHO’S ON THE BALLOT FORM COURTESY OF

10th Judicial District 2025 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES

Bronwyn Black-Kelly

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 65

Legal career: Bronwyn Black-Kelly has served as a Suffolk County District Court judge since 2023, following a long career in both public service and private practice. From 1990 to 2022, she was a partner at the Law Offices of Black & Black, a general practice firm. Earlier in her career, she worked as an assistant district attorney in the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office from 1985 to 1989.

Black-Kelly earned her law degree from Hofstra University School of Law in 1985, and her bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University in 1981. She was admitted to the state bar in 1986, and is also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York and the U.S. Supreme Court. She is a member of both the Suffolk County and New York State bar associations.

James Malone

Endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 59

Legal career: Since 2018, James Malone has been a District Court Judge. From 2014-2017, he was a principal law clerk for State Supreme Court Justice William Condon. He received his undergraduate degree from Clarkson University in 1983 and a law degree from Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center in 2005.

Carl

Copertino

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 69

Legal career: Judge Carl Copertino currently presides over family cases in the Family Court of Suffolk County and has served as a New York judge for 13 years.Previously, he spent five years as an attorney with the New York City Transit Authority. He received his law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1981. He was admitted to the New York State bar in 1981.

Mark Cuthbertson

Endorsed by Republican and Democratic parties

Age: 59

Legal career: Mark Cuthbertson, a lifelong Huntington resident, focused his legal career on commercial real estate, municipal litigation, and the representation of municipalities and notfor-profit cemeteries.

Admitted to practice in New York and Connecticut, Cuthbertson earned his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Albany Law School of Union University. There, he served as the executive editor of the Symposium for the Albany Law Review. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Villanova University.

In addition to his legal practice, Cuthbertson has served on the Huntington Town Board since 1998, where he has worked to reduce and stabilize taxes while advancing environmental protection and smart growth initiatives. He sponsored legislation preserving hillside areas and open space throughout the town.

Matthew McDonough

Endorsed by the Conservative party Age: 36

Legal career: Matthew McDonough, of Massapequa, has been admitted to practice law in New York since 2019. He is also admitted to the District of Columbia, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern districts of New York, the U.S. Tax Court, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit. McDonough, a graduate of the City University of New York School of Law at Queens College, he earned his Juris Doctor before serving a clerkship with the State Supreme Court. In 2020, he opened his private practice in Babylon, focusing on municipal and public sector law. He works often with local governments, businesses and residents on municipal policy, taxation and regulatory compliance.

Joseph Pastoressa

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 66

Legal career: Justice Joseph C. Pastoressa has served on the state Supreme Court in Suffolk County since 2012. Before that, he was an acting Supreme Court justice from 2004 to 2011, while also serving as a Court of Claims judge. Earlier in his career, Pastoressa worked in private practice, and later as a principal law clerk for a justice on the state Appellate Division, a Court of Claims judge and a state Supreme Court justice. He earned his bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University, and graduated cum laude from Brooklyn Law School.

Steven Pilewski

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 69

Paul Kenny

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 64

Legal career: Paul Kenny, a Glen Head resident, began his career in 1986 as a court attorney in the New York City Criminal Court and later joined a general practice firm in Queens. He served as co-counsel to the State Court Officer’s Association. From 1992 to 2007, he worked in the Kings County Supreme Court Law Department, as a court attorney-referee for matrimonial matters, and from 2000 as the deputy chief court attorney. He was appointed chief clerk of the Appellate Term, Second Department in 2007 and edited the Election Law Handbook for more than a decade. He serves on the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission, is an instructor at Lehman College, an adjunct professor at the NYC College of Technology and lectures at the Appellate Division, Second Department and State Judicial Institute on election law.

Margaret Reilly

Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 61

Legal career: Steven A. Pilewski is a longtime member of the state’s court system, with more than two decades of experience in judicial chambers. From 2000 to 2022, he served as principal law clerk to Justice Guy J. Mangano Jr. in the state Supreme Court in Kings County. Before that, he worked as a principal appellate law clerk for the Appellate Term of the 2nd Department from 1995 to 2000. Pilewski earned his law degree from Touro College in 1994, and received a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in 1989. He has been a member of the Suffolk County Bar Association since 1999.

Legal career: Margaret Reilly has served as a Nassau County Surrogate’s Court judge since 2016. She was previously a Nassau County Supreme Court Justice from 2012 to 2015, an acting justice from 2007 to 2012, and a twice-elected County District Court judge from 1998 to 2011. Earlier in her career, Reilly practiced law as a deputy Nassau County attorney, the Stewart Manor village prosecutor and a senior associate at Mulholland Minion & Roe and the Law Office of Vincent D. McNamara. She has lectured at Hofstra and Touro law schools, co-chaired the Nassau County Courts’ Women in the Courts Committee, and served as an adjunct professor in trial advocacy at St. John’s.

2025 JUDICIAL CANDIDATES

County Court Judge

Nancy Nicotra Bednar

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 54

Legal career: Nancy Nicotra Bednar is a lifelong Nassau County resident raised in Elmont. She lives in Rockville Centre.

A 1993 Notre Dame graduate with a bachelor’s in English, she graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York City in 1996 She has over 25 years of legal experience working with the Innocence Project to her leadership roles in the Nassau County Attorney’s Office and state courts.

In 2003, Bednar became a deputy bureau chief-for the General Litigation Bureau in the County Attorney’s office until 2008. Then a senior principal law clerk for Appellate DivisionSecond Department She is now a principal law clerk in the County Supreme Court

Court Judge, 2nd District

Robert G. Bogle

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 68

Legal career: Bogle has served as a New York judge for over 40 years and began his term after election in 2015. He also serves as a supervising judge of the Village Courts in the county. He received his law degree from Hofstra University in 1982 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in political science from Niagara University in 1979. Bogle has received awards such as the Magistrate of the Year Award from the State of New York in 2006 and the Frank J. Santagata Memorial Award from the Nassau County Magistrates Association in 2008. A lifelong resident of Valley Stream, he and his wife, Kathleen, have two children. He is a Knights of Columbus member.

Donald X. Clavin Jr.

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 56

Legal career: Donald X. Clavin Jr. is the former Town of Hempstead Supervisor who served almost 3 terms from 2020-2025. He stepped down in August. Clavin was the Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes from 20012019.

Previously Clavin worked as a trial attorney and as deputy county attorney in Nassau County’s Attorney’s office. Clavin holds a law degree from Hofstra University and a bachelor’s in history from Canisius College. Clavin lives in Garden City with his wife and two children. He has stated “tax relief” as his top priority. He also helped develop the town’s 2019 and proposed 2020 budgets, including tax cuts. He has also hosted public information forums

Robert E. Pipia

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 61

Legal career: Robert E. Pipia is a judge on the Nassau County District Court in the 10th Judicial District of New York. He was first elected in 2014.

Before that, Pipia was the executive assistant to then Town of Hempstead Supervisor’s Office. This followed his work as deputy town attorney for the town’s Attorney’s Office where he served as the Americans with Disabilities Act compliance coordinator.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNY Albany in 1987, and earned his law degree from Hofstra University in 1992. He was licensed in New York in 1993.

Born in Queens and raised in Elmont, he attended the Henry Viscardi School.

Court Judge, 3rd District

Maria Boultadakis

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties

Age: 39

Legal career: Maria Boultadakis is a candidate for district court judge in Nassau County’s 2nd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2012 and is registered with the New York State Unified Court System. She earned her law degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. Boultadakis has served as a law clerk for three New York State Supreme Court justices, and she also held the position of deputy county attorney in Nassau County from 2022 to 2023.

Karen L. Moroney

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 55

Legal career: Karen L. Moroney serves as a judge in the Nassau County District Court, first elected in 2007, she was re-elected in 2013 and is currently serving a five-year term that expires at the end of this year.

Since 2017, she has also served as principal law clerk to Justice Sharon M.J. Gianelli of the Nassau County Supreme Court, and previously held similar roles for three other county Supreme Court justices. Her legal experience includes work as an attorney for the state Supreme Court and as an assistant district attorney in Queens County from 1992 to 1999.

Moroney earned her law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and was admitted to the bar in 1992. She is also admitted to practice before multiple federal courts.

Diana Hedayati

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 41

Legal career: Diana Hedayati is an attorney based in Plainview and a candidate for district Court judge in Nassau County’s 3rd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2010 by the Appellate Division, First Judicial Department and is currently registered with the New York State Unified Court System.

Hedayati graduated from Pace University School of Law. Her professional background includes over a decade of legal experience in the public sector, with a focus on administrative and regulatory law.

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 66

Legal career: Howard E. Sturim is a New York Judge in the Supreme Court of Nassau County and has served for 10 years. His career began as an assistant district attorney for the Nassau County District Attorney’s office from 1991 to 2004. He prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases then became head of the Arson Unit and Major Offenses Unit. He then became a principal law clerk for the state Court of Claims to Alan L. Honorof before his term as New York Judge began in 2016.

Sturim earned his bachelor’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 1987 before receiving his law degree from Hofstra University in 1990 in the Maurice A. Deane School of Law.

Court Judge, 4th District

James A. Saladino

Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 60

Legal career: James A. Saladino is a district court judge in Nassau County, appointed in March of this year. He has over 30 years of legal experience, including service as a judge, law clerk, prosecutor and private practitioner. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a district court judge in Suffolk County, presiding over criminal and civil matters. Before that, he spent eight years as a principal law clerk in the New York State Supreme Court and practiced law as a partner at Saladino & Hartill, LLP. Earlier in his career, he was an assistant district Attorney in Suffolk County from 1991 to 2002.

Saladino earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and a B.A. from Boston University. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1991.

Anne Donnelly, a Republican and prosecutor for over 30 years, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become Nassau County’s top prosecutor; becoming the fourth consecutive woman to do so.

Donnelly, 61, is campaigning on her record as a career prosecutor who has prioritized public safety, gang enforcement and support for law enforcement. She is a Garden City resident and took office in 2022.

On the issues:

To address gun violence and online drug trafficking, she created a Firearm Suppression Unit and a Cyber Crimes and Pharmaceutical Unit. Her office has also expanded education programs in schools and invested in hate crime prevention efforts.

Nicole Aloise, a Democrat and candidate for Nassau County District Attorney, is mounting a campaign centered on addressing crime in the county, community investment and public safety.

run for district attorney.

Upon taking office she assembled a team of prosecutors and law enforcement officials—including a former police commissioner—to focus on violent crime, narcotics, and unsolved cold cases.

Donnelly also assisted in the Gilgo Beach serial killer investigation and helped close multiple cold cases from the 1960s and 1970s. Donnelly has said her administration prioritizes justice for vulnerable populations, including animals, and has prosecuted abusers under animal cruelty laws.

Donnelly has been an outspoken critic of New York’s “Cashless Bail” and “Clean Slate” laws, which she argues put repeat violent offenders back on the streets. She has called for their repeal while voicing continued support for police.

Before her election, Donnelly served 32 years in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, most recently as deputy bureau chief of the Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau. Her cases included murder-for-hire schemes, narcotics rings, and a counterfeit electronics bust that led to the largest asset forfeiture in county history.

Donnelly holds degrees from Fordham University and Fordham Law School.

Aloise, 41, brings 16 years of experience as a prosecutor in both Nassau and Queens counties, including recent work as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her career in 2008 after earning her law degree from St. John’s University. In Queens, she helped secure more than 20 violent felony convictions and made case law by introducing the first NYPD body camera footage used in a New York City trial.

From 2019 to 2023, she served in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office as senior litigation counsel, prosecuting violent felonies and homicide cases. She returned to Queens in 2023 and continued her work until stepping down in 2024 to

On the issues: Her platform includes strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau to better address attacks on Jewish and Asian communities, supporting the creation of a “death by dealer” statute to hold drug traffickers accountable in fatal overdose cases, and boosting funding for mental health, youth and violence prevention programs.

Aloise has also pledged to crack down on DWI cases through the county’s Vehicular Crimes Bureau and continue partnering with local police departments to improve public safety.

She lives in Garden City with her family, serves on her school’s PTA, coaches youth soccer and teaches legal ethics as an adjunct professor at Molloy University.

STEPPING OUT

Scare

up

a Halloween soirée

Get your ghoul on with a tricky treat of a bash

By Karen Bloom

The big day of tricks — and treats — is fast approaching. Ir’s the perfect excuse to let your spooky side shine. Whether you’re hosting little ghouls or adults who love a good fright, transform your home into a playful (or slightly spooky) party lair. Think mad scientist candy tables,“frightfully” delicious bites, bubbling mocktails, and enough treats to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Costumes optional, fun required. Not everyone wants to go all out with a full costume — and that’s fne! A Halloween Disguise Table lets guests add just a touch of whimsy. From goofy glasses and wacky hats to plastic fangs and spinning bow ties, everyone can join the fun, one accessory at a time.

Go for some spooky eats and magical drinks. Turn everyday foods into Halloween delights with cookie cutters, clever renaming, or inventive presentation. Sandwiches become tombstones, cookies turn into ghosts, you get the idea. Drinks? Pour them into vintage bottles and jugs and label them “magic potions” for an instant wow factor.

With a little imagination, your Halloween gathering can be a playful mix of tricks, treats and memorable moments — no matter your age. Try these tricked-out goodies for tasty spooking.

Spooky Ghosts

These friendly ghosts are sweetly spooky.

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

• 1 cup extra-fne Baker’s Special Sugar

• Chocolate mini chips, for eyes

Preheat the oven to 200°F, with a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare a pastry bag with a 1/2” plain tip. Place the room-temperature egg whites into the bowl of a mixer. Add the cream of tartar. Beat on slow speed until the cream of tartar is dissolved and the egg whites are foamy. Slowly increase the speed of the mixer. When

the volume of the eggs has doubled and they begin to look opaque, sprinkle in about half the sugar. Continue to beat until the whites are glossy and getting stiff. Add the remaining sugar and mix until it’s evenly distributed and the whites hold a stiff peak.

Transfer the meringue to the pastry bag and, holding the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, pipe, with even pressure, about 2”-high mounds of meringue.

Carefully press two chocolate mini chips into each meringue ghost, to make eyes.

Bake the meringues for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, or until they’re dry and crisp to the touch.

Turn off the oven, open the door a couple of inches, and leave the meringues in the oven to fnish drying several hours, or even overnight.

Remove the ghosts from the completely cold oven, and store them loosely covered. They should keep for several days at cool/dry room temperature. Yield: 20 to 24 ghosts.

Meatball Mummy Bites

Take a bite out of these mummies if you dare.

• 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls

• 20 meatballs, pre-made

• Ketchup or mustard

• Marinara sauce, as desired

Heat oven to 375°F. Line work surface with cooking parchment paper. On parchment-lined surface, unroll dough and press perforations to seal; cut into 4 rectangles.

With knife or pizza cutter, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 10 pieces, making a total of 40 pieces of dough.

Wrap 2 pieces of dough around each meatball to look like “bandages,” stretching dough slightly to cover meatballs.

Separate “bandages” near one end to show meatball “face.” On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped meatballs.

Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and meatballs are hot. With ketchup and mustard, draw “eyes” on mummy

bites. Serve with warm marinara sauce. Monster Mouths

A spooky treat you’ll want to sink your teeth into.

• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated peanut butter cookies

• 3/4 cup hazelnut spread with cocoa

• 1 cup miniature marshmallows

Preheat oven to 350°F. Shape dough into 16 balls. On ungreased cookie sheet, place balls 3 inches apart.

Bake 15 to 17 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 20 minutes.

Spread hazelnut spread on bottom of each cookie; cut each cookie crosswise in half. For each “mouth,” press 4 to 5 marshmallows into hazelnut spread along rounded edge of 1 cookie half. Top with second cookie half, bottom side down; gently press together.

Melted Witch Punch

Take a sip and you’ll be feeling “witchy.”

• 6 cups water

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1 (6 ounce) package lime-favored gelatin mix

• 1 (46 fuid ounce) can pineapple juice

• 2 quarts orange juice

• 1/2 cup lemon juice

• 2 (2 liter) bottles chilled lemon-lime soda

Mix water, sugar, and gelatin mix in a large saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cook at a boil, whisking frequently, until gelatin and sugar have dissolved, about 3 minutes. Stir pineapple juice, orange juice, and lemon juice into gelatin mixture and transfer into resealable plastic bags. Place in freezer until slushy, about 4 hours.

Pour mixture into a large punch bowl and stir in lemon-lime soda; foat a black plastic witch hat atop the punch.

Ruthie Foster is eager to share tunes from her new CD, “Mileage.” Renowned for her ability to weave together a tapestry of diverse musical infuences ranging from gospel and blues to folk and soul, Foster’s musical odyssey has taken her from singing in churches in rural Texas to earning multiple Grammy nominations, gracing the stage with the Allman Brothers, and collaborating with Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. With her milestone 10th studio album, Foster continues to tell stories that refect her personal triumphs, losses and the universal human experience. Born into a family steeped in gospel tradition, she initially shied away from the spotlight, preferring to play guitar, piano and write songs for others. Now, many albums later, she stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in music.

Friday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m. $43, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Little Feat

One of America’s most distinctive and longest-running rock bands, Little Feat is back in a big way with a revitalized lineup and a stellar new album — its frst of original material in over a decade. The venerable band is touring in support of ‘Strike Up the Band,” their frst new studio album reliant on new material since 2012’s Rooster Rag. It’s Little Feat’s triumphant return to rock ‘n roll with plenty of swampy Southern soul. The band builds on a deep, over 50-year history of elite musicianship and brilliant, idiosyncratic songwriting that transcends boundaries. California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country and rockabilly mixed with New Orleans swamp boogie has kept audiences grooving for decades.

Saturday, Oct 25, 8 p.m. $141.25, $120.25, $99.75, $77.75, $66.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

Spooky Fest

Spooky Fest is back at the Center for Science Teaching & Learning, through the month. Celebrate the season with Halloween for all. Be scared if you dare or enjoy not-so-spooky thrills with the younger folks.

• Where: 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre

• Time: 6-9:30 p.m.: also Oct. 18-19

• Contact: cstl.org or (516) 764-0045

OCT 24 Zombie Makeup Effects Workshop

OCT

Kids in grades 3-5 can zombify themselves at Baldwin Library. With a step-by-step process, be transformed into a zombie. Using special effects techniques applied in movies, create cuts, tears, wounds, and other forms of zombification. Also learn about the history of zombies as you turn into the living dead! Registration required.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: Noon- 1:30 p.m.

• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228

Pumpkin Fun

Families can stop by Baldwin Library for fun and fast-paced activities that celebrate the season.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 10 a.m.-10:45 p.m.

• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228

Double Double Toil and Trouble

Families are invited to celebrate the spooky season at Long Island Children’s Museum by brewing up your own magical potion bottle to take home at the drop-in program. Free with museum admission. For ages 3+.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Dog Days Weekend

Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), With fall dog parade and costume contest on Sunday. Prizes awarded to best dog costumes, including Prettiest, Most Handsome, Most Original, Best Duo or Group, Funniest. Costume contest participants must register.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury.

Orchestre National de France

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Extension hosts farmers market in Eisenhower Park.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, Parking Field 8

• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: CCENassau.org

Long Island Turkey Trot

Step into November with the Long Island Turkey Trot 5K.

Music Director Cristian Maˇcelaru leads the Orchestre National de France on its frst U.S. tour in nearly 10 years, performing with Grammy-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov. Their brief three-concert tour, with a stop at Tilles Center, culminates in a much-anticipated return to Carnegie Hall. Founded in 1934 and prized as France’s leading orchestra, the Orchestre National frst toured in North America in 1948. Joined by the pianist-extraordinaire (whose career has taken him far and wide, to Paris, throughout France, and to the most prestigious classical music venues in the world), the Orchestre National de France, the orchestra performs repertoires that lie at the core of its identity: Maurice Ravel (to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth), Elsa Barraine and Camille Saint-Saëns. Their brilliant repertoire features Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, along with Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 and two works by Ravel — Concerto in G and Daphnis et Chloe Suite No. 2 — with Trifonov as soloist on both of the program’s concerti. Under the baton of Cristian Maˇcelaru, this masterful program stuns in the musical story it provides, bringing the listener on a picturesque journey from start to fnish. The programming of Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 with its gumptous string lines that compliment the playfulness of the work’s structure sits beautifully in the program with Ravel’s Daphnis & Chloé. The two piano concertos bring different stylistic characters to the stage, with Saint-Saëns offering late romantic era lushness and Ravel offering the lavish fancy. Hearing these two works performed by Trifonov, a performer with a dedication to perfecting concerto repertoire for piano, is iconic.

• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.: also Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with costume parade/contest, 3-5 p.m.

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

‘Uncle Vlad’s Pumpkin Patch: Under New Management’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes all to its latest theater production. Horrible news! The Mountain Boo Soda Company has their eyes on a piece of property for their new factory — Uncle Vlad’s pumpkin patch! Join Uncle Vlad, his nephew Chad, and their freakish friends as they team up to protect their Halloween home from the bony fingers of big business. The company is run by a skeleton, after all! With puppeteers and actors from LICM’s Theater, this musical adventure will tickle your funny bone as a Halloween treat for the whole family. $5 with museum admission ($4 members). $10 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., also Oct. 26

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Haunted Halloween

Step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration for some Halloween fun. Enjoy safe trick or treating, a kids’ costume parade and contest, witch-broom making, pumpkin painting, and other family fun. Meet the Headless Horseman and listen to a reading of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Enjoy the spooky fun while you appreciate the colors and beauty of the fall season in the farms, woods, and fields of the historic site. $15, $12 seniors and children 5-12.

• Where: 1303 Round Swamp Rd., Old Bethpage

• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Contact: oldbethpagevillagerestoration. org or call (516) 572-8409

OCT 26

Sunday Music Stop by Baldwin Public Library for a concert with LIC Groove. The energy flows from start to finish with the R&B and classic rock cover band. Tickets required.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 2-3 p.m.

• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228

• Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100

Suicide Awareness Walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Long Island Chapter holds their Long Island Out of the Darkness Community Walk to raise awareness about suicide at Jones Beach. Register to walk or become a sponsor.

• Where: Field 5, 2400 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: Carrie Aronson at (516) 865-3944 or afsp.org/ longislandwalkwest

Art Talk

Join American realist painter Susan Cushing at Nassau County Museum of Art for a look at her process. Cushing’s highly stylized narrative landscapes are inspired by the decade of the 1970’s and reminiscent of the lifestyle photographs of Slim Aarons and the post-modern environmental style of Alex Katz and David Hockney. Susan’s paintings are evocative of the world of casual elegance as she beautifully captures the colors and themes of entertainment and play on canvas. Limited seating. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, Parking Field 2

• Time: 9 a.m.

• Contact: EliteFeats.com/ 25LITurkeyTrot NOV

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create with your kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Noon-3 p.m.

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Dinovember clay

Kids can celebrate Dinovember by creating a variety of dinosaurs at Baldwin Public Library.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 4-5 p.m.

• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228 NOV

Art piece to be displayed permanently in library

has led workshops at more than 20 libraries in Suffolk County.

“I simply fell in love with mosaics,” she said. “It’s like painting with pieces of glass and stone. I love introducing people to this art form and watching them discover that sense of pride and creativity.”

The mural, which will measure about three feet by five feet, is expected to take about two months to complete. The twoday workshops will allow patrons to contribute individual tiles to the larger composition.

“Anybody can help — as long as they’re not small enough to swallow the pieces,” Grama said with a laugh. “When they look at it later and say, ‘I made that little fish,’ it gives them a sense of pride and belonging.”

Elly Muller, a Baldwin librarian, said the workshops are open to all ages, though a parent must accompany children under 10.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Baldwin community to be part of something creative and lasting,” Muller said. “Everyone can participate, and when it’s finished, it’ll be something we can all be proud of.”

Due to ongoing renovations at the

library, the final location for “Octavia” is still being decided, but Muller said it will remain on display throughout construction before finding a permanent home upstairs.

elevate the Conversation

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It is the 40th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, that is a vital health initiative that was founded by the American Cancer Society in 1985.

Thanks to the wonders of search and AI, I learned that this year’s highlights included “…Live Aid for African Famine relief, the rise of Mikhail Gorbachev as Soviet leader…” and my particular favorite, “… the launch of Microsoft Windows 1.0…”

Ronald Reagan was in the White House; Mario Cuomo was New York’s governor and Frances T. Purcell was the Nassau County Executive.

Obviously, it’s been a hot minute since 1985 and yet here we are again, reminding ourselves and our loved ones that breast cancer exists and we must have a variety of strategies to fight against it.

However, this isn’t an article about early detection and routine screenings. About monthly self-exams and yearly mammograms. Those are the discussions for you and your doctor to have.

This is an article about taking care in a busy world that focuses on “self” too often for the wrong reasons. We are so wound up in ourselves: from filming the right post with the best lighting, wearing the right on-trend looks, getting the perfect “selfie.” Maybe this is a time to reinforce the importance of self-care,

that is, the unselfish actions we must take to protect our health and wellbeing.

It’s always the right time to get educated or reeducated, contribute funds for continued research and remind ourselves of what else can be done to ensure more survivors than victims of this disease, even if the month isn’t October.

In my personal calendar, there isn’t a unique day or month to focus on self. In fact, I need to remind myself that checkups, routine tests and anything else to contribute to physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing doesn’t have a due date.

But in October, in this “one-monthout-of-twelve” dedicated to pink ribbons and dyed hair I think of my friend Valerie, a talented artist and cartoonist who died all too soon due to breast cancer. She was a beam of light with wit and love to share. Therefore, as I walk in the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer to raise dollars to fight this disease, I will honor Val’s memory in my mind, in my heart, in my life so as not take any day or month for granted.

Lauren Lev is a marketing/advertising executive who teaches marketing fundamentals and advertising communications courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology and SUNY Old Westbury.

HERALD

ATTENTION STUDENTS: THE HERALD IS HOLDING A CONTEST TO DESIGN HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER

THE WINNING DESIGNS WILL BE PRINTED AS HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP IN 12/4/25 & 12/11/25 ISSUES OF YOUR HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

CONTEST RULES:

Who can enter: There will be 2 categories: Students in grades k-5. Students in 6-12

One entry per student

Deadline: Entries must be received by 5 p.m.

Friday, November 14, 2025

Requirements: All entries should have the student’s name, age, address, telephone number, email, grade and school printed on the back. Design can be reflective of all religious holidays. Entries will not be returned.

Mail or hand-deliver to:

Wrapping Paper Contest

Herald Community Newspapers

2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530 OR Scan and email to: (No Photos of Artwork Will Be Accepted).

ekimbrell@liherald.com

Winners will be notified by email or phone by November 21

Creative Tips

• Must use 8 1/2 x 11” unlined paper, copy paper or construction paper.

• Be creative & original.

• Use bright colors.

• Fill the entire page.

For more information contact Ethan Kimbrell at ekimbrell@liherald.com or 516.569.4000

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE FW SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. DANIEL FERNANDEZ, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confrming Referee Report Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 17, 2025, 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 November 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 840 Kings Parkway, Baldwin a/k/a North Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Baldwin, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 36, Block 132 and Lots 196-198. Approximate amount of judgment is $919,807.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index #604647/2024.

Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 160147-3 156139

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF LONG BEACH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2, Plaintiff against BAC REALTY, INC., et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered August 31, 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 November 18, 2025 at 2:30 PM. Premises known as 3367 Harbor Point Road, Baldwin, NY 11510. Sec 54 Block 352 Lot 347. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,289,227.25 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index No 002520/2017.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Keith LaVallee, Esq., Referee File # SPSJN381 156302

LEGAL NOTICE

SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County. U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF11 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff, -againstPATRICIA KEE, PURPORTED HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES B. LOWE; JANAYA LOWE, PURPORTED HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES B. LOWE; JAMES K. LOWE, PURPORTED HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES B. LOWE; J.A.L., A MINOR, PURPORTED HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES B. LOWE; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES B. LOWE; PATRICIA K. LOWE; ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; MICAH DANK; FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY, LLC; NORTHEAST RECOVERY, INC.; TICOR TITLE

INSURANCE COMPANY; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; WOODOAK REALTY LLC, Defendants Index No. 005807/2013. Mortgaged Premises: 970 Wood Oak Drive Baldwin, NY 11510 Section: 54 Block: 556 Lot: 7 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. YOU ARE HEREBY PUTON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. The amount of the Debt: $363,635.36 consisting of principal balance of $245,138.87 plus interest of $65,450.60, escrow/impound shortages or credits of $51,686.69, late charges of $711.06; Broker’s Price Opinion, inspection and miscellaneous charges of $1,625.00; Attomey fees of $1,000.00 and title search costs of $275.00; Less a Suspense Balance of($2,251.86). Because of interest and other charges that may vary from day to day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. Hence, if you pay the amount shown above, an adjustment may be necessary after we receive the check, in which event we will inform you NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who fled this foreclosure proceeding against you and fling

the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 156296

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. COMMUNITY LOAN SERVICING F/K/A BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC, Pltf. vs. NATHTOE SPENCE, et al, Defts. Index #617290/2023.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Oct. 16, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on November 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 1312 Grand Avenue, Baldwin, NY 11510 a/k/a Section 36, Block 216, Lot 158. Said property beginning at the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Washington Boulevard with the westerly side of the northerly side of Washington Boulevard with the westerly side of Grand Avenue, as widened in 1952, being a plot 104.49 ft. x 20 ft. x 102.57 ft. x 20.09 ft. Approximate amount of judgment is $281,600.29 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of fled judgment and terms of sale. The sale will take place “rain or shine.”

MICHELLE AULIVOLA, Referee. DEROSE & SURICO, Attys. for Pltf., 213-44 38th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11361. #102568 156278

News brief

Baldwin High School is recognized

Baldwin High School has been recognized by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) as a School of Excellence Award winner for the 2024–25 school year.

The honor places Baldwin among 77 schools across Long Island and 331 schools statewide that earned either the School of Distinction or School of Excellence Award, which celebrate the academic success of student-athletes across New York State.

To receive the School of Excellence Award, at least 75 percent of a school’s varsity teams must achieve a collective

grade point average of 90 percent or higher during their season.

“Congratulations to our Schools of Distinction and Excellence,” said Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA executive director.

“These prestigious honors represent the culmination of a school year marked by outstanding achievement in the classroom. These accolades would not be possible without the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the student-athletes, coaches, and administrators whose efforts these awards proudly recognize.”

- Hernesto Galdamez

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSAA HOME EQUITY TRUST 2006-8, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-8, -againstGLORIA C. FORTE A/K/A GLORIA DEROCHE FORTE, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Offce of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 18, 2025, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSAA HOME EQUITY TRUST 2006-8, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-8 is the Plaintiff and GLORIA C. FORTE A/K/A GLORIA DEROCHE FORTE, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA,

NY 11501, on November 25, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 2316 HARRISON AVENUE, BALDWIN, NY 11510; tax map identifcation 54-101-48; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN BALDWIN, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index No.: 606489/2023. Brian J. Carmody, Esq., as 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. 156417

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR TERWIN MORTGAGE TRUST 2005-8HE, ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-8HE, Plaintiff - againstMARIE Y. ST. HUBERT, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on August 13, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 20th day of November, 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 Baldwin, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Premises known as 2685 Milburn Avenue, Baldwin, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11510. (SBL#: 54-522-50) Approximate amount of lien $792,713.51 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of

fled judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 614500/2019. Tiffany D. Frigenti, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: September 16, 2025

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 6feet 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. 156393

Our window replacement looks complicated

Q. With winter coming, we’re realizing that our windows are drafty and hard to open. It’s time to replace them after 40 years in our house. As we start shopping around, are there windows you recommend, and why? We keep seeing commercials for replacement windows, and were wondering if there’s a difference since our window openings aren’t standard. I took some measurements, and some of the windows are very uniform — like 4 feet tall, and others are off by 2 or 3 inches and those don’t match one another. Will the new windows be custom fit to the openings, or will we need to change the openings? I’m concerned, because our house is brick, and it seems like not every window is going to fit. What should I look for when talking to a contractor, and will we need a permit?

A. The most important thing to look for with windows is energy compliance and the strength and ease of operating the hardware. Windows that will lose more energy are a poor investment, followed by those that can’t be opened easily as they age. The strength of the frames goes hand in hand with the window operation, because less costly vinyl windows are made of less costly materials that will distort over time and directly affect the seal around the frames, making for more difficulty opening and closing.

Lately I’ve noticed that clients are searching for unique styles and brands from faraway places and even other countries. One person asked me to look at a lift-out window from Southern California that was meant for a café serving counter, but they wanted to use it for a second-floor bedroom. The window was a push-out-and-up type that didn’t look like it could handle our weather in the Northeast. There was no energy data to show resistance to our winters, and nothing published that could pass our local codes.

Another client is getting windows from Poland. They’re very strong, triple-pane units that cost less and will probably comply with the energy codes, but it was a struggle to get the energy data in a format required in your state codes.

The rule with most building departments in your area is that direct replacement doesn’t need a building permit, but altering window sizes does. You should still verify this with your building department, because you want to avoid receiving a warning or summons during the installation and then having to stop to get plans made and permits filed.

Custom window sizes require creating extra framing to attractively insert standard sizes. If you reduce the window opening, it must still comply with safety requirements. Consult either a local official or an architect to be sure that you comply. The codes vary for existing window openings, which require 4 square feet versus altered openings that bump the required size up to 5.7 square feet. The architect can also give you some guidance about wood versus

fiberglass versus metal, etc. Good luck!

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opiNioNs

How does this shutdown fnally end?

The federal government has been shut down since Oct. 1. I can’t stand it. I’ve been back and forth to Washington, but the Capitol is relatively quiet. Federal workers are missing paychecks; Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare applications can’t get processed; flights are being delayed; and without any action come Nov. 1, millions of Americans will be notified that their health insurance premiums are going up by over $1,000 — per month!

Why can’t we fix this? Republicans have the White House and majorities in both the Senate and the House, but they need eight Democratic votes in the Senate to pass a government funding bill. Despite the high stakes and the need for high-level bipartisan negotiations to end this crisis, no one is talking. Why?

Republicans say they won’t negotiate until the government is reopened. House Speaker Mike Johnson hasn’t called us back to Congress for a month. Senate Majority Leader John Thune refuses to budge, and President Trump continues his my-way-or-the-highway

“Nposture, unilaterally — and likely unlawfully — firing federal employees, cutting projects in Democratic states and eliminating programs to try to impose his will, making this shutdown as painful as possible.

The Democrats are just as dug in. They warn that those health insurance premiums will soon skyrocket because Republicans refuse to extend the tax credits that keep the premiums down. We’re running out of time.

We need a solution that staves off spikes in health insurance premiums.

If the credits expire, 22 million Americans, including more than 100,000 Long Islanders, will see their premiums spike. Healthy people all over the country will choose to forgo coverage, which will shrink the risk pool and raise premiums for everyone. The results will be catastrophic.

The crazy thing is, most Democrats want to reopen the government, and many Republicans want to extend the tax credits. The problem is that no one trusts one another. Republicans want to open the government with a handshake promise to talk about health insurance later. Democrats want it dealt with as part of the reopening. There must be compromise, often a dirty word in D.C.

Normally, I’d advocate for trust. I don’t believe shutdowns should be used

as negotiating tactics for these kinds of policy debates. But these aren’t normal times. For the past nine months, the administration has ignored the Democrats, unilaterally eliminating jobs and cutting key programs, reversing budget decisions without warning and generally steamrolling Congress’s constitutional authority over “the power of the purse” and the use of the military in our cities.

Johnson and Thune have refused to negotiate with Democrats. I’ve voted to keep the government open more than 40 times over my five terms in Congress. Each time, the governing majority has negotiated with the minority party, with the understanding that they simply don’t have the votes on their own.

How can Democrats reasonably be expected to trust that health care will be dealt with after the reopening in an environment of such fear, anger and distrust in Washington?

Nevertheless, we need to find a way to reopen the government as soon as possible, or things will only get worse. We need a solution that also staves off spikes in health insurance costs.

That’s why I’m leading a bipartisan effort with Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans. Our bill, the Premium

Tax Credit Extension Act, would extend the credits for one year, protecting families while giving Congress time to reach a broader health care deal. It’s not perfect. Like most of my Democratic colleagues, I’d prefer extending the credits permanently. But we’re in the minority, and we can’t let our aspiration for perfection stop us from achieving the good. Republicans, who can’t open the government without Democrats, must also see that truth.

The sticking point in this shutdown is health care affordability: Polling shows that the top concern in our country is the cost of living, and health care costs are a key contributor. At Trump’s inaugural address, he said he would “rapidly reduce prices.” I, like many Americans, hoped that he would.

Now inflation is up, costs are climbing, and Americans feel duped. They want us to reopen the government, prioritize lowering costs —health care a big part of that — and stop playing partisan games while they pay the price.

For many Americans, Washington hasn’t just shut down this month — it’s felt closed for far too long. We need to reopen it in every sense: by rebuilding trust, negotiating honestly, and committing to working together to find solutions for the people we represent.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.

Returning to autumn in New York, 2025

o man can step into the same river twice.” — Heraclitus, 500 B.C.

After spending the past few years in Florida, my husband and I decided this season to rent a place near Woodmere, where we lived in the same house for 51 years. I taught in the local schools, our kids grew up here, and our roots in the community run deep.

We’ve been back in town for about two months.

I don’t have meteorological data, but I believe we’ve had the most glorious autumn weather ever experienced in southwestern Nassau County. Until the nor’easter, of course, which brought back memories of Hurricanes Belle and Irene and Sandy.

I took myself to Woodmere Dock and found the seascape of the bay, the waterside holes of the Rockaway Hunting Club and the vast marshes all the same. I imagine I’m one of few people who

recall that the dock was owned at one time by the Ike family, who rented rowboats by the hour and owned an access road to the dock known as Ike’s Lane.

You can go home again, but if you do, be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different. And, of course, you are different, too. Our old house looks as if we closed the door and walked away yesterday. The tiny memorial to our dog Sheba still rests in a flower bed where we buried her ashes.

You can go home again, but be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different.

The second day up North, I walked into a doctor’s office and into a friend from our kids’ high school days. We looked the same, other than dusted and stamped by time. That afternoon, a woman jogged by our rental house, and I realized she was in a book group I ran 25 years ago. I kept running into people who looked as if a makeup artist had worked them over. And they did double takes when I reintroduced myself.

Things are where I remember them — firehouses and supermarkets and a few restaurants. But some stores are now banks, and many small businesses

have been replaced by medical megapractices, gyms or nail spas. Community boards advertise unfamiliar events and groups. I felt like Emily in “Our Town,” when she returns from the dead to revisit her 12th birthday and realizes that no one ever appreciates the everydayness of their lives while they’re living them. I took the LIRR to the city from Lawrence one day. I didn’t know where or how to park, how to buy a ticket or how to find the train schedule. Since I last rode the Snail, it went digital. I got a tutorial from my granddaughter and enjoyed a glorious day with her traipsing through downtown Manhattan. BTW, despite the fearmongering of many Floridians, the subway was clean, and it all felt safe.

Penn Station was emblematic of my experience, looking completely new and kind of brazen and futuristic, but foundationally the same. Track 19 is still Track 19, and the train back to Lawrence still left from there.

Another day, I drove from the Five Towns to Astoria. I hadn’t driven in city

traffic for six years. That was hell and a half. I felt gratified that my memory of the roads was accurate, and the Van Wyck still went to the Grand Central and then to Steinway Street — but what a holy mess the roads are. Everything is under construction, and cement trucks terrorized me all the way from here to there. My Waze app told me to go right so I could go left, and then an 18-wheeler backed into my lane. More people gave me the finger salute during that 50-minute ride than in all of my years driving. The Woodmere and other towns of my younger self have evolved and, in some cases, disappeared. That’s what happens. New people, new shops, new activities festoon the old infrastructure. All the little back roads are the same, though. I realized I knew 10 different ways to drive anyplace.

I also know the origin stories, the history, of people and places, and it all came flooding back as I zipped about town. I felt grounded in the way you can only feel when your present is layered with rich memories of the past.

It’s autumn in New York again, and it’s good to be home.

Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

Herald editorial

Science strengthens justice on Long Island

For decades, justice in Nassau and Suffolk counties often depended on eyewitnesses, confessions and detective work that, while diligent, was limited by the science of its time. But today, the breakthroughs of modern forensic science are rewriting history, freeing the innocent and holding the guilty accountable.

Last week, the Nassau County district attorney’s office announced a stunning development in one of Long Island’s most haunting cold cases, the 1984 murder of 16-year-old Theresa Fusco in Lynbrook. Fusco disappeared after finishing her shift at the Hot Skates Roller Rink. A month later, her body was found in a nearby wooded area.

For nearly 40 years, her family lived with grief and confusion, compounded by the wrongful convictions of three men whose lives were destroyed before DNA technology could prove their innocence. Those men — Dennis Halstead, John Kogut and John Restivo — spent nearly two decades in prison before DNA testing cleared them in 2003.

Now, that same science has brought the case full circle. Investigators linked Richard Bilodeau, 63, of Center Moriches, to the crime after obtaining DNA from a discarded smoothie cup earlier this year. When tested, it was a 100

letters

percent match with evidence preserved from the Fusco crime scene.

“Science and DNA evidence doesn’t lie,” the district attorney’s office stated. And it doesn’t coerce confessions. It doesn’t forget. It doesn’t play favorites. It tells the truth when the truth is hard to find.

The Fusco case isn’t just about closure — it’s a lesson in progress. Four decades ago, detectives couldn’t imagine a world in which a cold case could be revived by a few microscopic cells. Today, the Nassau County forensic unit has reopened a number of cases, identifying both victims and suspects through genetic technology once considered science fiction.

Science is also central to another major Long Island case now unfolding in court: that of Rex Heuermann, the Massapequa Park architect accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer. There, too, DNA stands at the center of the search for truth. Prosecutors are relying on cutting-edge testing from Astrea Forensics, a California lab that analyzes even the tiniest hair fragments. Defense attorneys have tried to discredit the science as “magic,” claiming that New York courts haven’t yet accepted it.

But experts such as Dr. Kelley Harris,

There should be funding in the county budget for a safe center

The following letter was sent to Nassau County legislators.

The South Shore Women’s Alliance is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of women and families. In line with this mission, SSWA hosted “Not Me” workshops for parents and their daughters, in which the Safe Center LI, of Bethpage, played a crucial role, providing instruction on fundamental prevention and protection strategies, as well as education on the warning signs and cycles of abuse.

In addition to serving as the primary center for people affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse, the Safe Center operated as an advocacy center for child-abuse prosecutions, maintained a crisis-intervention hotline and offered an advocate-response program that dispatched trained volunteers to emergency rooms to assist survivors of rape, sexual assault and domestic violence.

The Safe Center was the lifeline for over 5,000 people each year, providing crucial resources and support to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence, the only center of its kind in Nassau County. It is unconscionable that County Executive Bruce Blakeman allowed it to close.

Nassau provided $2.9 million to the Safe Center in 2023. But when asked for county grants to keep the center going, Blakeman failed not only to provide the needed funding, but also to facilitate a takeover by another organization, forcing the center to shut its doors.

The Safe Center board’s former president, Shanell Parrish-Brown, said, “The county sort of left the Safe Center

a University of Washington geneticist, defend the method as “elegant and powerful”— a reminder that while justice is constant, the tools to attain it evolve. Every forensic innovation, from fingerprints to fiber analysis to DNA sequencing, was once new and controversial. Yet each step forward has given law enforcement stronger, fairer tools to uncover facts that human memory or intuition alone could never provide.

Whether it’s exonerating the innocent, as in Fusco’s tragic case, or convicting the guilty, as prosecutors hope in the Gilgo Beach murders, forensic science is reshaping the path toward justice on Long Island. It demands accuracy. It demands accountability. And it demands that we trust evidence grounded not in guesswork or coercion, but in chemistry, genetics and time-tested truth.

For the Fusco family, science may finally bring the closure they’ve waited for since 1984. For the families of the Gilgo Beach victims, it may soon bring answers to a mystery that has haunted this area for years.

From Lynbrook to Massapequa Park and across Long Island, one message is clear: Science keeps faith with the facts — and with the people who deserve justice.

out to dry.”

As reported in Newsday, County Legislator Seth Koslow “said the impending closure could have been avoided with better county planning.”

“This was a failure of leadership in Nassau to ensure the safety of these children who have been victimized once and are now being victimized again by the Blakeman administra -

tion,” Koslow said. “This wasn’t something that just fell out of the heavens — people saw this coming.”

Why weren’t there hearings about the future of the center when the financial problems first became known? Why hasn’t the Legislature’s Health and Social Services Committee held hearings about how it might save the center?

opinions

Haven’t heard about kratom? It’s a new cause for concern.

kratom is a substance that has caught the attention of legislatures across the country — in New York especially, due to its wide usage as a stimulant and because of its alleged medicinal properties, but mainly as a cause of recent tragic deaths. I believe you should be aware of the risks of kratom, its compounds and synthetic derivatives. According to Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “Concentrated, synthetic 7-OH” — the herb’s chemical byproduct — “may be the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic.”

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves are sold on the market as tea, powder, pills, tablets or capsules. It is found in energy drinks, vapes, herbal supplements and gummies. Unregulated kratom products have been found to contain lead.

People use kratom to treat conditions such as pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, opioid use disorder and withdrawal, and to boost energy and enhance wellness. Depending on the dosage,

however, it can produce both stimulant effects and opioid-like sedative effects. Its risks include liver toxicity, seizures and addiction.

The use of kratom started to become mainstream over the past decade. It’s relatively inexpensive, but according to industry statistics, the industry is valued at between $1.3 billion and $5.62 billion, and is projected to grow rapidly. This is concerning!

TThe FDA has not approved any uses for kratom, and it is not lawfully marketed in the United States. The FDA describes it as lacking medicinal value, and has raised concerns about risks it says are similar to those of using morphine. The FDA warns consumers to avoid usage until it is better understood.

Although it occurs naturally in the kratom plant, it is considered a synthetic substance in its potent form, in commercial products. The recommendation is now under review by the DEA.

he head of the FDA says it ‘may be the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic.’

In 1970, Congress established five schedules of classification for controlled substances, Schedule 1 being the worst, and granted the Drug Enforcement Administration and the FDA the authority to determine which substances could be added or removed from those schedules.

In July, the FDA announced that it would recommend to the DEA that 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, the powerful compound found in kratom, be classified as a Schedule I substance.

LeTTers

Even more egregious is how Blakeman uses women’s trauma as a political ploy in mailings and TV ads against his opponent, while abandoning survivors of rape, abuse and domestic violence — effectively casting them onto the streets.

The South Shore Women’s Alliance gathered hundreds of Nassau resident signatures urging that, rather than spending millions of dollars on outside legal fees for frivolous culture war lawsuits or for his own personal militia, Blakeman reinstate the county’s only domestic violence center.

The SSWA requests that Nassau County allocate funds in the 2026 budget for opening a new facility that shelters and provides the services that the Safe Center provided to women and children of Nassau County.

Until the review is complete, New York can’t pass legislation that deviates from a federal classification standard because of the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Although this was a step in the right direction, the kratom plant itself was not included in the recommendation. I recently signed a letter written by the chairman of the Assembly’s Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Committee requesting that the DEA and FDA add kratom products as a Schedule I substance.

At least half of the states in the U.S. regulate kratom, often including age restrictions. As of this year, Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C., have banned it, and classified it as a Schedule I substance. Florida and Missouri have banned synthetic 7-OH.

The inconsistency of these laws demonstrates exactly why federal regulation streamlining the classification and use of kratom is so vital. While it may have medicinal benefits, the focus should be

ernment is a nonpartisan group concerned about transparency, accountability and integrity. We believe Mr. D’Esposito is wholly unqualified for this job, and ask that you block his confirmation.

Anthony D’Esposito’s history of questionable hiring practices has been well documented. While at the New York City Police Department, he reportedly broke labor rules by working a second job. More recently, D’Esposito was at the center of a scandal. In September 2024, it was reported that that while he was serving as a congressman in the 4th District, he put his fiancée’s daughter and his mistress on his congressional payroll, despite the House Code of Conduct prohibition against employing spouses, relatives and stepchildren.

on harm reduction. Individual choice needs to be respected, but I believe public health is at stake.

We have taken action in New York state. I co-sponsored two bills that passed unanimously in June and are awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature. One would require manufacturers of kratom products in New York to include a warning label stating that the product hasn’t been approved by the FDA, and is prohibited from being labeled as all natural. The other bill would prohibit the sale of kratom to anyone under age 21. It is vital that we protect this age group, just as we do with the sale of alcohol and marijuana.

It is paramount that these bills be signed, and that kratom products be classified as Schedule I substances. The tragic deaths of too many New Yorkers have shown how dangerous and addictive kratom can be. Some people seeking alternative remedies to pain, insomnia, anxiety, fatigue and other problems have unknowingly been at risk, and some have died believing this substance was natural, safe and had therapeutic value.

Unfortunately, this sounds all too familiar. “We got burned with fentanyl. We got burned with prescription drugs,” Makary said. “We cannot get behind the eight-ball again.”

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

CLAUDIA BORECKY Executive director, South Shore Women’s

Alliance

Should D’Esposito be an inspector general?

The following letter was sent to United States Senate Majority Leader John Thune. It has been reported that the U.S. Senate is advancing the confirmation of former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito to be Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Labor. Nassau Residents for Good Gov-

There are also questions about his judgment. D’Esposito was part of the GOP’s slate of 2022 freshmen candidates for Congress, which included the disgraced George Santos, who was expelled in 2023 (and just released from prison). D’Esposito reportedly had a close financial relationship with Santos, and coordinated with him during their concurrent 2022 House campaigns, sharing a campaign treasurer (who later pleaded guilty to conspiring to defrauding the U.S. government) and raising money together through the Santo D’Esposito Nassau Victory Committee.

D’Esposito says that if confirmed, he will bring “grit, independence and accountability to the Department of Labor.” In fact,

his record is antithetical to that position and that promise. As detailed above, his record is one of corruption and a general disregard for ethical considerations.

President Trump chose D’Esposito despite his ethical lapses amid lingering questions about his hiring practices. But the Senate doesn’t have to.

Here in Nassau County, we have seen up close D’Esposito’s labor practices, which we believe should disqualify him from consideration. Instead of advancing D’Esposito’s confirmation, it should be blocked.