Baldwin Herald 11-06-2025

Blakeman declares victory in Nassau County executive race HERALD

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Baldwin voters let their voices be heard Tuesday night.

Republican Bruce Blakeman declared victory, based on unofficial results as of midnight, to secure another term as Nassau County executive, defeating Democrat Seth Koslow, 54 to 46 percent. Blakeman campaigned on public safety, fiscal restraint and quality-of-life issues.

“I want to thank the men and women of Nassau County for giving us all your trust,” Blakeman said. “If not for the people of Nassau County coming out the way they did, we wouldn’t have had the tremendous result we had tonight.”

Debra Mul é, the incumbent Nassau County legislator in the 6th District, was projected to win a fifth term, over Republican Danielle Smikle, with 65 percent of the vote. Mul ė ’s campaign focused on strengthening infrastructure and improving community spaces.

“Thank you for the honor of

Tim Baker/Herald Republican nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman won a second term on tuesday night, easily defeating his democratic challenger, Seth Koslow.

once again representing . . . District 6,” Mul ė told Herald reporters. “I promise to always do my best to provide the best services for my constituents.”

In the Town of Hempstead, John Ferretti, who was appointed supervisor in August, was elected to a full term. He was projected to

defeat Democratic challenger Joseph Scianablo, 53 percent to 47 percent.

“Our position on the issues that face Hempstead residents, Nassau County residents — we’re on the right side of every one of them,” Ferretti said.

For the most up-to-date results, visit LIHerald.com.

ElEction RESUltS

Navigation Day brings aviation to life in schools

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Long before drones, a topic some Baldwin High School students are now studying, brothers Albert and Arthur Heinrich launched their own piece of aviation history on that very soil in 1910.

The two young inventors built and flew the first successful all-American monoplane on what is now the site of Plaza Elementary School, at 501 Seaman Ave.

Tnavigation, featuring engineers and aviation experts from Lockheed Martin, a leading aerospace and defense company, and members of the Lufbery Flyers, a Long Island-based model aviation club, joined the event.

he goal is

to make the students excited about STEM.

Now, 115 years later, students continued that legacy on Oct. 28 through Baldwin School District’s inaugural Navigation Day, a hands-on STEM event celebrating both the science of flight and the community’s rich role in American aviation.

GABRiEllA fRANZA

Gabriella Franza, the district’s assistant director for instructional programs, who helped orchestrate the event, said the high school’s involvement grew from student interest.

Assistant director

Instructional programs

The program has teamed students from the high school’s STEM/Engineering Academy, who have enrolled in the district’s Introduction to Drones course, with Brookside Elementary School’s fourth graders for an exploration of air and sea

“We have an Introduction to Drones course that students take, and there was a large student interest in what additional careers they can do with the skills they were learning in the class,” she said. “Navigation applies directly with the skills they are learning in this class, and the skills they learn with the simulators they use from drones are similar to systems used for flight and submarine navigation.”

During morning sessions at the high school, students learned about aviation safety,

Continued on page 5

Baldwin church brace for rising need as SNAP benefits lapse

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

As a potential disruption to federal food assistance looms, St. Christopher’s Church in Baldwin is preparing to meet an anticipated rise in need at its parish food pantry.

Nearly three million New Yorkers lost access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits on Nov. 1, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture warned that federal funds may run short.

If not resolved, the lapse would affect more than 41 million Americans nationwide. According to reports in the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, 29,926 SNAP recipients living in New York’s 4th Congressional District, which includes Baldwin, are affected.

In response to the growing crisis, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman last week declared a state of emergency and announced additional emergency funding to combat food insecurity tied to the federal government shutdown.

The county will provide $50,000 per week to both Long Island Cares and Island Harvest until SNAP benefits are restored, Blakeman said, to ensure that no family in Nassau County goes hungry while federal aid is delayed. Approximately 31,450 households in the county currently rely on SNAP benefits.

“With the issues that are going on in Washington, D.C. right now, there are many people who are in jeopardy of not being able to feed themselves and their families,” Blakeman said. “So we are trying to help and supplement the things that a lot of our great not-for-profits are doing here on Long Island.”

Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, said the emergency funding will help food banks quickly distribute healthy meals across Nassau County.

“Food is a right,” Dresner said. “We need to be able to know that we’re going to be able to have access to a good, healthy meal. And these funds are going to allow us to purchase that kind of food and get it out into the community here in Nassau County really, really quickly.”

Katherine M. Fritz, CEO of Long Island Cares, said the support comes at a critical time.

“This is an important time in our lives on Long Island to make sure that we’re focused on the people…who are struggling every day to make sure that their families have food on their table,” she said.

Gov. Kathy Hochul last week also earmarked $30 million in state funds to help bridge the gap, and Attorney General Letitia James announced New York is joining 24 other states and Washington, D.C., in a lawsuit seeking to use federal contingency funds to continue food assistance programs.

Adding to the efforts, a pair of federal judges issued rulings late last week ordering the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue funding SNAP benefits during the shutdown using available contingency funds, providing temporary relief for millions of Americans while the broader legal challenges proceed.

At St. Christopher’s, Reverend Johnny Mendonca said staff and volunteers are

bracing for an uptick in demand.

“We were aware of what’s happening and have spoken with our pantry and outreach people,” Mendonca said. “Right now, we haven’t seen a big influx of clients, but I’m sure in the coming days it’s going to be bad, because people are already talking about it.

“We are trying our best to stock up our pantry and prepare gift cards and other things,” he continued, “to serve our regular clients and anyone who comes to us for help.”

The pantry, which operates on Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m., offers canned goods, fresh produce, bakery items, baby formula, and other essentials. It is staffed by roughly 12 to 16 volunteers working in rotating teams — some who sort donations after weekend Masses, and others who assist clients directly.

In addition to food, the church partners with the St. Vincent de Paul Society to provide limited financial assistance for rent, utilities and other basic needs. Mendonca said the parish maintains a close relationship with Long Island Cares and expects to reach out for additional support if demand spikes.

“We are doing good for now because our pantry is stocked enough,” he said. “But I think this coming week, it will really show.”

Office manager Maria Christ said the church has already received more calls than usual from people worried about what is to come.

“We are here to help,” she said.

The parish encourages residents who wish to contribute to donate nonperishable food items or gift cards, which Mendonca said provide families flexibility to purchase what they need most.

“For me, that is what community is all about — reaching out to share your blessings with others,” Mendonca said. “It gives us joyful hope to see people aware of the needs of others, not self-centered but selfless.”

Community members can contact the parish office at 516-223-0723 or the pantry directly to donate or seek assistance. Updates on expanded hours will be posted on St. Christopher’s website and Facebook page.

Baldwin celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Baldwin School District celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of educational and cultural activities across all grade levels, highlighting the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Observed annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The national observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a month long celebration in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.

Throughout the month, Baldwin students, staff, and families participated in lessons, projects, and events that emphasized cultural pride and community connection.

At the elementary level, each school took a unique approach. Brookside Elementary School’s Character Club led presentations on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month, teaching classmates about notable Hispanic role models, the Spanish language, and traditional foods. Weekly themes focused on Hispanic authors, artists, and musicians, and students worked with their families on projects that were displayed throughout the building.

At Lenox Elementary School, students explored Hispanic culture through classroom activities, including a reading and art project in Jennifer Finucane’s second grade class. Plaza Elementary students explored history through a Pop-Up Museum and tested their knowledge in a Hispanic Country Flag Scavenger Hunt while learning Spanish phrases during morning messages.

Meadow Elementary School’s PTA launched the celebration during the September Board of Education meeting with a family event featuring a bilingual reading of Mango, Abuela and Me by Meg Medina. Students created crafts, participated in raffles and book giveaways, and enjoyed Dominican food while exploring an interactive bulletin board honoring Hispanic heroes and trailblazers.

At Steele Elementary School, students turned the gymnasium into an art gallery for the school’s first “Viva Latina Art Exhibition.” Each student from kindergarten through fifth grade created artwork inspired by Hispanic and Latino culture, history, or figures, resulting in 277 pieces displayed for families to view.

“The Hispanic Heritage Art Exhibition was truly magical,” Steele Principal LaTrace Finney said. “I’m so proud that every student contributed a project — each piece reflected their creativity, learning, and pride.”

Art teacher Nicole Rubin said the event exceeded expectations.

“It was incredible to see how each student interpreted the assignment so creatively, so differently, and so beautifully,” she said. “The best part was seeing their faces when they spotted their artwork — the energy was electric.”

In addition, Nancy Aquino’s second-grade class at Steele welcomed guest presenters who shared personal insights about Hispanic heritage and traditions, including lessons on flags and notable figures.

At the secondary level, Baldwin Middle School began the month with daily announcements highlighting influential Hispanic Americans, and Latin music played in

the hallways between classes.

The Spanish Club at Baldwin High School led by school counselor Stephanie Piña, organized a Spirit Week and several after-school events celebrating Hispanic culture. Students enjoyed hot chocolate, dominoes, and Uno — all staples in Hispanic and Latino communities — and later joined the Star Club for a bachata and salsa dance event. Announcements were also delivered in Spanish throughout the week.

District officials said the celebration reflected Baldwin’s ongoing mission to inspire, educate, and empower students through experiences that promote diversity and unity.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly announced that Roosevelt resident Jose William Funes-Zabala pleaded guilty to murdering his ex-girlfriend, Brenda Guadoloupe Alfaro Alcantra, in her Hempstead home in 2024.

Roosevelt man pleads guilty to murder of ex-girlfriend

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

A Roosevelt man has pleaded guilty to murder and child endangerment charges for fatally stabbing his ex-girlfriend in front of their two-year-old son in her Hempstead home last October.

Jose William Funes-Zabala, 44, pleaded guilty on Oct. 29, before Judge Howard Sturim to second-degree murder, an A-I felony, and endangering the welfare of a child, an A misdemeanor.

He is expected to be sentenced on December 18 to 20 years to life in prison.

Planning For and Executing Inheritances

(Part One)

Planning for, and then executing, inheritances is often fraught with emotion. Most families choose to leave the inheritance “to my children in equal shares, per stirpes.” Per stirpes is Latin meaning “by the roots” so that if a child dies before the parent, their share goes to their children (if any) in equal shares. If there are no children, then the inheritance is disregarded and their share goes to their surviving siblings in equal shares.

What about gifts to grandchildren? Let’s say one child has five children and the other has two children -- seven grandchildren altogether. When a significant gift is given to grandchildren equally, it is not uncommon for the child with two children to say “well it was my brother’s choice to have five children, why do I have to pay for it?” Good estate planning also looks at inheritances from the heirs’ point of view as well. We are often asked whether inheritances should be discussed with children ahead of time. While each family has different dynamics, this can end up being the equivalent of giving children a veto power over what you are going

to do. For example, if you seek their opinion on an unequal division, you will create a problem for the family if you choose to disregard their input. A better way might be the use of the “soft probe”. Here, you suggest an idea that you have about an unequal division, and then gauge their reaction before making a decision.

For example, where one child is very much better off then another, you might say “You know, your sister Mary could really use our money a lot more...” The wealthy child will generally respond one of two ways. They will either say “Of course, I don’t need it, leave it all to her” and you are off the hook, or they will indicate that they consider anything less than equal shares would be unfair. In the latter case, if you still want to help Mary more, you may give her gifts during your lifetime and keep peace in the family by leaving inheritances equally. You may also pass some accounts outside the estate by naming Mary as beneficiary.

Giving thought to your “emotional legacy” may go a long way towards keeping peace in the family.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

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The District Attorney’s Office had recommended a sentence of 25 years to life.

“Blinded by rage, this defendant brutally and repeatedly stabbed his ex-girlfriend more than 30 times in her home during a visit with his son, leaving the two-year-old to watch the gruesome attack and the life drain from his mother’s eyes,” said District Attorney Donnelly. “The child was later found, soaked in Brenda Guadoloupe Alfaro Alcantara’s blood, after Funes-Zabala fled the scene and heartlessly left his son behind with his mother’s corpse. This was a horrific act of violence that stole a woman’s life and the innocence of a young child. Two lives destroyed because of this defendant’s viciousness and his bruised ego. Our thoughts remain with Brenda’s family and friends as this sick

individual is punished for his crimes.”

According to prosecutors, on Oct. 4 of last year, an order of protection against Funes-Zabala, issued on behalf of the victim, 29-year-old Brenda Guadoloupe Alfaro Alcantara, had expired.

The following day, around 5:58 p.m., Funes-Zabala visited Alfaro Alcantara’s basement apartment on Botsford Street in Hempstead to see their son.

When he learned that Alfaro Alcantara had begun dating someone new, an argument broke out. Funes-Zabala then stabbed her approximately 35 times in her bedroom as the child watched.

At about 6:58 p.m., witnesses saw Funes-Zabala leaving the basement apartment with what appeared to be blood on his face. He fled the scene, leaving his uninjured son behind.

Family members, unable to reach Alfaro Alcantara, later discovered the victim and the child in the apartment.

Funes-Zabala was arrested the next day, October 6, 2024, at Nassau University Medical Center by members of the Nassau County Police Department Homicide Squad.

The case is being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Ania Pulaski of the Homicide Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Jared Rosenblatt and Executive Assistant District Attorney for the Litigation Division Kevin Higgins. The defendant is represented by Brian Carmody.

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Baldwin’s rich aviation history comes to life

the principles of flight and what it takes to become a certified radio-controlled pilot. The sessions included live demonstrations of drones and model aircraft, as well as a presentation from Lockheed Martin on submarine navigation, giving students a look at how similar principles apply below the ocean’s surface.

“The STEM/Engineering Academy aims to provide students with a multitude of learning experiences to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the challenges of the emerging global community through dynamic, technology-based programs,” Franza said. “This is exactly that.”

In the afternoon, lessons continued at Brookside, where upper-grade students built and tested paper gliders with the help of the Lufbery Flyers, experimenting firsthand with aerodynamics and flight control.

“The goal is to make the students excited about STEM and all that it has to offer,” Franza said of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. “We want them to remember these experiences, so they can be excited about STEM, aviation and navigation.”

Franza stressed the importance of connecting students with professionals in the field.

“Students have the ability to learn from people that are using these skills in the real world,” she said. “This shows

the applicability of learning and also gives insight to how navigation is executed.”

Early exposure, she said, can spark long-term interest in STEM.

“I had many students come up to me after the event and share that they want to now practice with drones, after seeing the team fly the drone through the basketball hoop. That is immediate feedback

on how these programs create change.”

The event reflects Baldwin’s continuing commitment to STEM innovation, connecting classroom learning with realworld applications and career pathways. Franza added that students were already familiar with Baldwin’s aviation legacy through district collaborations.

“Through our previous collaborations with the Cradle of Aviation, as well as a

visit by astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, they have been exposed to Baldwin’s history,” she said. “In addition, the Lufbery Flyers helped support the day, who is named after Raoul Lufbery.”

That hands-on approach also pays homage to Baldwin’s pioneering place in aviation history. The Heinrich brothers, who were once speedboat racers, were self-taught aviators who turned their curiosity and engineering skills skyward, creating a groundbreaking aircraft that took flight just years after the Wright Brothers’ first powered plane.

A historic marker outside Plaza Elementary commemorates the Heinrichs’ achievement, stating “the first all-American monoplane was built and flown at this location by Albert and Arthur Heinrich, aged 21 and 23, in 1910.”

Two decades later, another chapter of Baldwin’s aviation story began when Leroy Grumman, a Cornell-educated engineer and veteran flight instructor, co-founded the Grumman Corporation in 1930 in a former car dealership in Baldwin. The company would later relocate to Valley Stream, Farmingdale, and eventually Bethpage, becoming a cornerstone of American aerospace innovation. Through Navigation Day, Baldwin educators expressed hope that their students will be inspired to follow in those footsteps — or flight paths — as they chart their own course in science and technology.

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

Baldwin Schools unite for Unity Day

Students and staff across the Baldwin School District joined millions nationwide in celebrating Unity Day on Oct. 22, showing their commitment to kindness, acceptance and inclusion as part of National Bullying Prevention Month.

The district’s schools turned orange for the day — the official color of Unity Day — to promote awareness and solidarity against bullying. The event, initiated by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, encourages participants to wear orange as a symbol of safety, visibility and support for those affected by bullying.

At Plaza Elementary School, which earned a No Place for Hate designation last spring, students and staff emphasized the importance of respect and empathy by wearing orange and taking the No Place for Hate pledge. Morning announcements also highlighted messages of kindness and inclusion, reinforcing the school’s year-round focus on building a welcoming environment.

Unity Day is part of a broader effort during National Bullying Prevention Month, which takes place every October to raise awareness and inspire action to stop bullying in schools, communities and online.

The PACER Center, founded in 1977 by parents of children with disabilities, established the National Bullying Prevention Center in 2006 to promote social change and ensure that all young people feel safe and supported.

For more information on Unity Day and bullying prevention resources, visit PACER.org.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Five things to know about liver cancer from NYU Langone

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

1

Early stages often show no symptoms

Liver cancer can develop quietly for years. Symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal swelling, or extreme fatigue usually appear only when the disease is advanced, making early detection difficult.

2

Adults should be tested for hepatitis.

Chronic hepatitis B or C infection is a major risk factor for liver cancer, yet many people show no symptoms. The CDC now recommends that all adults be tested at least once, with ongoing testing for those at higher risk.

3

Thank You, Veterans

This Veterans Day, we honor all who have served— and proudly recognize 55 of our own employees at Mount Sinai South Nassau who are Veterans and our Veterans Committee. Thank you for your courage, dedication, and service to our country and to our community.

4

Risk factors can often be treat ed.

Hepatitis B can be prevented with a vaccine, hepatitis C is now cur able, and liver damage from alcohol or fatty liver disease can improve with life style changes. Managing these risks can significantly lower the chance of develop ing liver cancer.

5

Treatments have improved. Targeted therapies and immuno therapy have transformed liver cancer care, giving even patients with advanced disease more treatment options and improved quality of life.

Cirrhosis increases cancer risk. Most liver cancers develop in people with cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, caused by hepatitis, alcohol use, or metabolic liver disease. People with cirrhosis should have liver ultra sounds and alpha-fetoprotein blood tests every six months.

516-632-3000

L.I. Association hosts WNBA’s Caitlin Clark

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

Caitlin Clark, the star point guard for the Indiana Fever, became the alltime leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball, was selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA draft, was the league’s 2024 Rookie of the Year and has drawn thousands of new fans to women’s basketball.

On Oct. 29, hundreds of Long Island business leaders and basketball fans attended the Long Island Association’s annual fall luncheon to see Clark speak with LIA President and CEO Matt Cohen.

The LIA is nonprofit association working to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality. The luncheon usually highlights political or business leaders, but this year Clark, 23, spoke about her career and nonprofit work. It was her first visit to Long Island, but she is no stranger to New York, having made a number of TV appearances and played the 2024 WNBA champion New York Liberty at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“Honestly New York is one of my favorite places to come and play,” she said. “The crowd they have is really fun, their fan base is absolutely incredible and they’ve got a great team.”

As a junior at the University of Iowa, Clark became known for “the Caitlin Clark effect” — a dramatic increase in

popularity and revenue for women’s basketball that continued when she turned pro.

“I just love basketball,” she said. “I love the grind of getting better. No matter what we achieved or what I achieved personally, I always wanted to get back in the gym and get better at it.”

She emphasized the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive

people who care about both your success and your well-being. “I’ve been very fortunate over the course of my career to be surrounded by a lot of really great teammates, coaches and a great support system that’s allowed me to do a lot of cool things,” she said. Clark has sponsorships from Gatorade and Nike, and collaborates with Stanley. Her college marketing degree,

she said, has helped her navigate business decisions. “The biggest thing for me is working with brands that align with who I am,” she said. “Everything has my fingerprints on it. Everything we put out there I’m super proud of.”

Clark touched on her work with the Caitlin Clark Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth empowerment through education, nutrition and sports. “It’s honestly my favorite part of what I get to do,” she said. The foundation organizes a large backpack giveaway, supports Central Iowa’s Boys and Girls club, and works to install new basketball courts in Des Moines and Indianapolis.

“Basketball was never my end-all beall,” Clark said. “Its still that way for me. It’s just what I love to do. Its crazy to think that this is my job.”

She did not comment on negotiations between the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association on a new collective bargaining agreement after players opted out of the agreement. It was set to expire on Oct. 31, but both sides agreed to a 30-day extension for talks to continue. Players are concerned about pay, benefits and overall conditions in the league as the sport continues to grow.

For her part, Clark hopes to continue her career in Indianapolis and eventually help the Fever win a WNBA championship.

Baldwin Church hosts annual Trunk or Treat

St. Christopher Church welcomed families for its annual Trunk or Treat on Oct. 26, filling the church parking lot with Halloween fun. Children in creative costumes collected candy and enjoyed games, pumpkin decorating, music, and a costume parade. The event provided a safe, lively environment for the community to celebrate together.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Every cat has ‘nine’ lives… and so does Black Kitty Cat Girl Scout Troop 2324 this Halloween! Troop leaders Jennifer Muschett and Jennifer Fray joined A’mya Bascombe, Autumn Kaiser, Emma Rollndo, Cssandra Dorsaint, Zoe Muschett, Zoe Fray, and Serenne Oraa for a purr-fectly spooky celebration.

Focusing on

Falling back, feeling blah

Coping with fewer hours of daylight

Daylight saving time comes to an end each fall, to the dismay of most, at a time when the hours of available sunlight already are beginning to decline.

Some people are more accustomed to darkness than others. Norwegians, Swedes and people living in Alaska and the upper reaches of Canada near or above the Arctic Circle may go through a period when winters can be especially dark. Fairbanks, Alaska, gets just three hours and 42 minutes of sunlight on the winter solstice. Those in Barrow, Alaska, will endure a period of 67 days of darkness, according to Alaska.org.

Although we don’t experience such profound periods of darkness, when the darkness of fall and winter arrives, it can be difficult to maintain a positive outlook. Do the chilly, gloomy days of winter make you want to curl up under the covers and stay there until the sun shines again? You’re not alone. During our cold, dark, dreary winters, we get less of the mood-boosting help of sunlight, which may set the stage for the winter blues. Borrowing some of the coping mechanisms relied on in northern latitudes can help many people to see the dark in a different light.

Be aware of SAD. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is defined by medical

professionals as a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons, beginning and ending at about the same times each year. Symptoms tend to start in the fall and continue into the winter, sapping energy and making a person feel moody. As with other types of depression, SAD can get worse and lead to severe problems if left untreated.

Make daylight hours count. Spend time outdoors while the sun is bright in the sky. Make an effort to switch your schedule if work interferes with getting outdoors, even if all that can be managed is an outdoor walk at lunch. Sit by a bright window and soak up rays whenever possible.

Find pleasure in holiday/winter activities. Go skiing/snowboarding, outdoor ice skating, taking part in your community’s holiday events or even bundle up and take a walk through a nature preserve or an appealing location. Look forward to the holiday season and cold weather months for what can be done, rather than what can’t.

Socialize as much possible. Instead of holing up indoors alone, plan more social occasions with friends and loved ones so everyone can collectively shoo away the winter blues.

Exercise more.Use the darker hours as an excuse to exercise more, be it at the gym or outside. Bundle up for a walk, swim indoors, or head to the gym. Exercise can work as well as antidepressants, in some cases, in fighting mild-to-moderate depression.

Check your vitamin D levels. Sunlight is a source of vitamin D, a nutrient linked to sharper thinking and better emotional health. Check with your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you.

Light a fire. Set the kindling ablaze in a

fire pit, fireplace or woodburning stove, or just light a handful of candles. Flames can be soothing and less harsh on the eyes than artificial light.

Nurture your spirit. Slow down and curl up in a cozy chair with a good book or write in your journal or even enjoy a soothing bath. Take a break from screen for a bit and focus on your inner wellbeing. Quiet time can beneficial to your soul and overall wellbeing.

Fall and winter darkness does not have to send a person into the doldrums if you embrace the right attitude.

mountsinai.org/southnassau

Get Ready for the Holidays: Protect Yourself With Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines

As you get ready for the holidays, remember this: While vaccine recommendations may be debated these days, one fact remains unchanged—the flu and COVID-19 can still be deadly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the flu caused nearly 130,000 deaths and the hospitalization of about 1 million people between October 2024 and May 2025. Additionally, the CDC estimates that COVID-19 has been responsible for approximately 540,000 hospitalizations and up to 63,000 deaths since October 2024.

“You should always consult your physician for individual medical advice. The respiratory virus season is upon us, and if you’re eligible and haven’t been vaccinated for COVID-19 and flu, now is a good time to get immunized,” advised Aaron E. Glatt, MD, Chair of the Department of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau.

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Vaxmobile is offering a free COVID-19 and flu vaccine program. For the 2025–2026 flu season, the CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and New York State Department of Health recommend trivalent flu vaccines containing strains for influenza A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and an influenza B/Victoria lineage virus. The A(H3N2) component was updated from the previous season. It is recommended that everyone six months and older receive a flu vaccine annually to prevent illness and complications.

For those 65 and older, an enhanced version of the flu vaccine is recommended.

In September, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed

MountSinaiSouthNassau’sCommunityEducationandVaxmobileteamare providingfluandCOVIDvaccinesinacommunitynearyou.Checkthe hospital’sFacebookpage(www.facebook.com/mountsinaisouthnassau)for dates and locations.

an executive order (which has been extended) declaring an emergency that overrides recent federal actions restricting vaccine access. The order ensures that all New Yorkers can receive the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine without a prescription.

The New York State Department of Health recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children aged six months to 23 months, adults 65 years or older, and people at high risk for severe outcomes, such as pregnant women, lactating women, and the immunocompromised. It is also recommended that children and teens ages 2-18 years old get the vaccine if they are at high risk, live in a long-term care facility, have never been immunized with

a COVID-19 vaccine, or live with people who are at high risk for severe COVID-19. It is also recommended for adults ages 19-64 who have elevated risk factors for severe COVID-19, those at the highest risk of exposure, and those who live with others at the highest risk.

“Individuals who are especially vulnerable and have not recently had COVID-19 and/or received the 2024 COVID-19 vaccine should get the new vaccine for enhanced protection,” said Dr. Glatt.

The CDC says it is safe to get the COVID-19 and flu vaccines simultaneously, during your visit to the doctor or pharmacy. Getting the vaccines is as simple as calling your doctor, visiting your local drugstore, or scheduling an appointment with Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Vaxmobile.

A common reaction after getting the flu and/or COVID-19 vaccine is a sore and tender shoulder, which is caused by the needle hitting the deltoid muscle and/or your body’s natural response to the vaccine. This usually goes away in a short while and doesn’t represent a long-term risk.

To schedule an appointment to get a flu or COVID-19 vaccine or both, go to www.southnassau.org/sn/vaxmobile; for more information, call Community Education at (516) 377-5333.

One Healthy Way Oceanside, NY 11572 • 877-SOUTH-NASSAU (877-768-8462) • www.mountsinai.org/southnassau

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Billy Joel exhibit closes after two-year run

‘A Piano Man’s Journey,’ at L.I. Music and Entertainment HOF, ends with collectors’ presentation

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

A special presentation at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on Oct. 25 marked the closing of the Billy Joel exhibit and highlighted the important role that collectors played in bringing it to life.

Among those sharing their stories were collectors Paul Fierro and Eric Fellen, who contributed memorabilia and offered items for door prizes and a silent auction to support the museum.

“I’m excited to be here and talk about our experiences throughout the years collecting,” Fierro said, “but when people ask what’s the best, I always say the best is the people that I’ve met along the way, the friends I’ve made over the past 50 years doing this.”

After their presentation, Fellen and Fierro passed around pieces from their collections to a room full of devoted fans, and answered questions.

“Billy Joel, My Life: A Piano Man’s Journey” ran for nearly two years, drawing many repeat visitors — including Lisa and Donnie Wallace, of Massapequa Park. “Billy Joel has been my all-time favorite for 50 years now,” Lisa said. “I saw him 22 times during his residency and probably 30 times overall.”

Melissa Heche, an audiologist who

has performed with Richie Cannata, attended with friends, and said that Joel’s music was the “heartbeat” of their childhoods. “He became a role model too, pulling us into all different kinds of music,” Heche recalled.

Regina DeMarco, of Woodbury, attended with friends she met on a Billy Joel Facebook fan page. “I’ve made a lot of friends through Billy Joel,” DeMarco said. “We’re a tight group and we love Billy’s music. Some of the people in our

group come as far away as England, Australia and Chile.”

JoAnn Laverdure traveled from New Hampshire for the final days of the exhibit. “I was planning on coming at the beginning of the month because I knew that it was closing, and then I saw the post for the 2 p.m. presentation and just changed my plans,” she said. “I just adore him, and I think the exhibit is marvelous.”

The exhibit was designed by Kevin

O’Callaghan, who described its closing as emotional. “It was an exhibition I was very proud of,” O’Callaghan said. “My relationship dealing with Billy Joel I will never forget; it was a wonderful experience.”

O’Callaghan is now preparing something new for the hall — this time stepping away from music and into television. His next project, scheduled to open Nov. 28, celebrates 30 years of the sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Titled “Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years,” the exhibit will include the 70-foot-wide set built for the show’s upcoming anniversary special on CBS. This marks the first time the set will be on public display.

“I couldn’t be more excited about this new exhibit,” O’Callaghan said. “The fact that we’re taking television history, the actual set from ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ — the actual set that we looked at many times on TV, and we have it here for people to walk on and enjoy — it’s an immersive experience. It’s a wonderful exhibition, and a wonderful journey back to a better time, when we all enjoyed watching real family comedy.”

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is at 97 Main St. in Stony Brook. For more details, go to limusichalloffame.org.

NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!

STEPPING OUT

Decades of holiday joy

Sacred Heart Academy welcomes the season with ‘The Nutcracker’

By Abbey Salvemini

As we prepare for the festive season ahead, one cherished tradition is already spreading holiday cheer: Sacred Heart Academy’s beloved production of “The Nutcracker.” Now in its 35th year, the all-girls, student-run performance returns to delight audiences with its timeless magic, graceful choreography and heartfelt community spirit.

Proudly recognized as the first “Nutcracker” to take the stage on Long Island this year — two weeks before Thanksgiving — Sacred Heart’s production is more than a performance; it’s a celebration of artistry and empowerment. Every element — from choreography to marketing to stage management — is handled by students, creating an experience that’s as much about leadership as it is about ballet. The young creative team is guided by the steady hand of Rockville Centre’s Annie Melia, a 2008 alumna, now in her third year as director of the production. Many alumnae have gone on to shine as Rockettes, Juilliard-trained dancers and educators, proving that the spirit of the beloved holiday classic extends far beyond the stage.

“As the leader of the production, I’ve learned that creating a supportive and organized environment helps everyone perform their best,” says Sienna Squadrito, a senior from Atlantic Beach who serves as the production co-president, choreographed the Waltz of the Flowers. “I tried to pull choreography that reflected the whole theme of the show.”

Her goal is that audiences sense the passion and countless hours each dancer has put in to make the movements shine.

Oceanside senior Angelina Sabatino, vice president, who choreographed several scenes, takes on the role of the dazzling Dew Drop Fairy. She relates that the energy of an all-girls cast creates an atmosphere of empowerment and camaraderie.

“Being a part of ‘Nutcracker’ has such a positive energy and allows us to grow as dancers and leaders,” she says.

Stepping into the role of the Dew Drop Fairy has been both exhilarating and deeply meaningful; the highlight for her.

“Dewdrop is one of my favorite roles because of how pretty the scene is. My favorite part is the music and the choreography, it’s so uplifting. I am so excited to perform this role because of how magical it feels and how it puts you in the holiday spirit. Bringing the

• Nov. 14, 7 p.m.; Nov. 15-16, 2 p.m.

• Pre-sale tickets are $15 each through Nov. 13; $20 day of performance, subject to availability.

• Tickets available at sacredheartacademyli.org/ TheNutcracker2025Tickets

• Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre, 47 Cathedral Ave., Hempstead

Dew Drop Fairy to life in front of an audience reminds me why I love to dance and how special it is to share that joy with the audience.”

As the Sugar Plum Fairy, Samantha Koenig, of Garden City, carries one of the ballet’s most iconic roles — a part she has made entirely her own.

“Instead of focusing on being perfect, I try to bring warmth and confidence to the character,” she says.

Besides performing, she choreographed Waltz of the Snowflakes and serves as the show’s Finale Coordinator.

“As a senior, it means a lot to set an example for the younger dancers,” she adds.

Koenig reflects that what she’ll hold closest to her heart about her involvement with the show is the deep sense of family and the cherished tradition it represents.

“Everyone supports each other, and it’s so special to be a part of a tradition that brings so many people together,” she notes.

For senior Hailey Friere, of Massapequa, who plays the Lead Messenger and Fritz, this year’s performance marks her fourth year with the show.

“During my freshman year, I thought that participating in ‘The Nutcracker’ was just another after-school activity. Now, I see it more as a part of my life that fulfills the holiday season.”

Friere’s favorite aspect of the production is building friendships across grade levels and sharing the joy of the Christmas season throughout the school.

“Actually, I met one of my best friends through ‘The Nutcracker,’ and she’s like a sister to me,” Friere shares. “Now, I’m Fritz and she’s Clara, so she’s like a real sister to me!”

As the curtain rises this holiday season, Sacred Heart Academy’s “The Nutcracker” reminds local audiences that its magic goes far beyond the stage. In sharing their passion, students invite everyone to experience the joy that has made this beloved production a cherished holiday highlight at the school for 35 years — and counting.

Ted Nash Sextet

Ted Nash’s Big Band brings the Grammy Award-winning “Presidential Suite” to the Tilles Center stage. This fascinating program pairs historic speeches by figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill, and others with bold, jazz-driven orchestrations. With Nash’s thoughtful direction and expressive playing, the hard swinging band offers a powerful and resonant performance that bridges history, music and the spirit of swing. Each movement is tied to a different speech by world leaders, giving the words new resonance through music. Presidential Suite is considered Nash’s most significant work, rich with social and political awareness. A longtime member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Nash has spent 25 years blending intellect, emotion and bold creativity through his compositions. Acclaimed as one of the most innovative voices in modern jazz, he’s known for his boundless creativity as an arranger and performer.

Sunday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100

North Mississippi Allstars

Dynamic blues-rock band North Mississippi Allstars unearths the soul of the Mississippi hill country with every riff and beat. Led by brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson, their electrifying performances fuse tradition with modern energy and can turn any venue into a juke joint. As legend has it, the brothers started the band in 1996 as a loose collective of like-minded secondgeneration musicians who shared a local repertoire and regional style. Over the years, the lineup shifted by design, and each subsequent record offered up a different combination of collaborators. Get on your dancing shoes and hear for yourself the bold, raucous and reinvented tribute to the musicians’ roots and evolution.

Sunday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m. $48.50. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or by calling (516) 767-6444.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

NOV

8

‘Once Upon A Song!’

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance. In this spirited show books in a library are brought to life in song and dance. A cast of 40 keeps the action moving along, with a live band and and a special appearance by Steve Mitchell as Elvis. The singers and dancers perform current hits, oldies and tunes from the Broadway stage, with a tribute to Woodstock and “Wicked.”

With refreshments and post-show dancing until 1 A.M. Seating is night-club style at round tables. $30 per person, available in advance or at the door. Refreshments provided; guests can bring in your own food (just no pork or shellfish).

• Where: Temple B’nai Torah, 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 7:30 p.m., also Nov. 15

• Contact: licabaret@aol.com or (516) 946-7207

NOV

9

Gaelic Storm

Flip Your Lid

Families are invited to commemorate America Recycles Day at Long Island Children’s Museum by upcycling mason jar lids into beautiful works of art, at the drop-in program. Free with museum admission. For ages 3+.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

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

Art Talk

Join Poster Historian and Gallerist Ted Bahr for” In a Furious Moment - The History and Development of the Psychedelic Rock Poster.” The psychedelic rock poster had a brief but colorful life from 1966 to 1970. Originating out of San Francisco in a utopian period where it was thought that peace and love could change the world, these posters advertised the rock “dance concerts” and reflected the very psychedelic and idealistic world around them. Breaking all the rules of graphic design and advertising, the psychedelic rock posters sought to be as illegible as possible, to force competing colors together to create a vibratory effect, and appropriated images from all eras of history, Seating is limited. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: e-clubhouse.org

Champagne & Chopin

Join The Friends of Old Westbury Gardens for an enchanting evening of music, elegance and celebration. Enjoy a sparkling program featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Julian Gargiulo, the charismatic “Pianist with the Hair,” known for blending virtuosity, humor and heartfelt storytelling in his performances. Set within the intimate ambiance of the Red Ballroom, this special concert pairs Champagne and light bites with an unforgettable program of Chopin and other beloved works. $125, $200 for two tickets.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

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

NOV

• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington

• Time: 8 p.m.

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. The band attributes their continued success to their fanatic audience, and it’s a well-diversified crowd for sure — attracting fans of every genre with their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. They are as loyal to their fans as the fans are to them, as frontman Patrick Murphy states, “The fans are the ones that have given us this life. We’re here for them.” Gaelic Storm takes a true blue-collar, hard-nose approach to touring, consistently traveling the U..S and internationally forging a unique path in the Celtic music world. This dedication to their live show dates all the way back to the mid-1990s, when Gaelic Storm kicked off its’ career as a pub band in Santa Monica, Calif. Those performances ultimately led to their discovery that found the band appearing in the blockbuster film “Titanic” (where they performed “Irish Party in Third Class”). This laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually find them topping the Billboard World Chart six times, making appearances at mainstream music festivals, and regularly headlining the largest Irish Festivals across the country, all while gaining a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band whose songs mix Celtic traditions with something uniquely creative. $68, $58, $48.

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

Board of Education meets The Baldwin Board of Education holds their monthly meeting at Steele Elementary School.

• Where: 860 Church St.

• Time: 8 p.m.

Baldwin Civic Association meets Baldwin Civic Association holds their monthly meeting at Baldwin High School.

• Where: 841 Ethel T. Kloberg Dr.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

Little Learners Art Lab

Each week in this engaging

workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week piece together playful paintings with aluminum foil. $4 with museum admission.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Book giveaway Baldwin Public Library’s annual book giveway returns.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids

• Contact: landmarkonmainstreet. org or (516) 767-6444

slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” With special opening weekend activities.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Opening drop-in programs start at 1 p.m.

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

Sunday music

Stop by Baldwin Public Library for a concert with Folkestra. Hear folk songs from regions around the globe.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 2-3 p.m.

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

Baldwin Lions Club meets The Baldwin Lions Club welcomes all to their monthly meeting.

22

Apple Pie Workshp Visit Baldwin Public Library and learn to take a full size 9-inch round apple pie from scratch.

• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.

• Time: 3-4 p.m.

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

Playful Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles have been bringing families together for over 200 years- sparking teamwork and wonder across generations. Celebrate Game and Puzzle Week at Long Island Children’s Museum by channeling inner creativity to design a custom puzzle. This is a drop-in program.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

Public Notices

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 filed 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

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 filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing 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 filed 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

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 Office 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 identification 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 filed 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 filed 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

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-R10, -againstRICARDO M. LOAYZA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 11, 2025, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE

SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-R10 is the Plaintiff and RICARDO M. LOAYZA, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 2, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 769 GRAND TERRACE AVENUE, NORTH BALDWIN, NY

11510; tax map identification 36-182-30 & 31; and description: 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 . Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611967/2022. Scott H. Siller, 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. 156486

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 11/12/2025 at 9:30 A.M. & 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

564/25. - 566/25. BALDWIN - John Carapella, Use variance to maintain 2-story accessory structure higher & larger than permitted & exceeding horizontal maximum on all sides; Variances, lot area occupied, side yard, side yards aggregate, maintain rear roofover attached to dwelling; Variance, front yard average setback, maintain front roofover attached to dwelling., E/s Fargo St., 100’ S/o Pilgram Ave.,

a/k/a 1875 Fargo St. THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M.

580/25. BALDWINWilliam Braun, Variance, side yard, maintain A/C unit on platform attached to dwelling., S/s McKinley St., 100’ W/o Eastern Pkwy., a/k/a 1070 McKinley St. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Baldwin within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.

156625

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…

To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the fiscal affairs of the Baldwin UFSD for the period beginning on July 1, 2024 and ending on June 30, 2025 have been examined by an independent public accounting firm. The management letter prepared in conjunction with the external audit by the independent public accounting firm has been filed in my office where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons. Pursuant to §35 of the General Municipal Law, the governing board of the Baldwin UFSD may prepare a written response to the management letter by the independent public accounting firm and file any such response in

Mount Sinai unveils new Feil Family Pavilion

By ABIGAIL GRIECO

agrieco@liherald.com

Mount Sinai South Nassau marked a major milestone last Tuesday with the dedication of its new $150 million Feil Family Pavilion — a four-story, 100,000-square-foot addition that expands the hospital’s emergency, surgical and critical care services while positioning it to introduce open-heart surgery next year.

Hospital leaders, community members and elected officials joined Mount Sinai Health System executives for the opening ceremony and ribbon cutting, celebrating the largest capital project in the Oceanside hospital’s history. The new pavilion features an expanded Fennessy Family Emergency Department, 40 intensive and critical care beds and nine advanced operating suites expected to open in the spring.

The hospital’s president, Dr. Adhi Sharma, called the opening “an important milestone in our long history of serving the South Shore of Long Island,” noting that the new design is already helping reduce wait times and improve care in the emergency department. The project, he added, reflects a decade of planning to meet the growing health needs of the surrounding communities.

For Sharma and the hospital’s leadership team, the dedication represented the culmination of years of effort and the foundation for what comes next. The pavilion is part of a 10-year master plan to expand services, enhance technology and continue transforming Mount Sinai South Nassau into a regional medical hub.

“The facilities are so modernized and patient-centered that our staff are able to take even better care of the patients,” Sharma said. “We designed it to be so that patients’ families are now able to stay with the

patients because there is more space.”

The new operating suites are designed for both minimally invasive and open procedures and will house the hospital’s forthcoming open-heart surgery program, which will be the first on Long Island staffed and overseen by cardiac surgeons from the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in Manhattan. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Fuster Heart Hospital No. 2 in the nation for cardiac care.

“Our patients and their families should not have to travel to North Shore or Manhattan to receive this kind of advanced care,” Sharma said.

The pavilion was made possible through what Sharma coined the Feils’ “philanthropic support.” Jeffrey Feil, CEO of The Feil Organization — a family-owned real estate investment, development and management firm — and his family have contributed more than $18 million to Mount Sinai South Nassau over the years, with another $1 million recently pledged. Their gifts have supported emergency medicine, cancer care and, most recently, the expansion of critical and surgical services.

Hospital officials said the Feil family’s generosity embodies the kind of partnership that drives Mount Sinai’s mission. Tony Cancelieri, co-chair of the hospital’s Community Advisory Board, praised the family’s ongoing commitment, explaining that their support “has always been rooted in a very genuine and deep admiration for the hospital’s work to improve the lives of South Shore residents.”

Dr. Brendan Carr, president and CEO of the Mount Sinai Health System, said the pavilion reflects the strength of the partnership between the Oceanside hospital and the broader health network. “We’re strongest when we work together,” Carr said.

In addition to expanding space and capacity, the pavilion introduces a range of design features and medical technologies focused on patient comfort and efficiency. The hospital’s critical care footprint has doubled, allowing Mount Sinai South Nassau to treat more patients with advanced conditions while giving families a more supportive environment during recovery.

“The new design is already improving patient care,” Sharma said, “and it’s just the beginning of what this facility will make possible.”

The ceremony concluded with a ribbon cutting and an invocation from Rabbi David Lerner, of Congregation B’nai Sholom-Beth David, who told the crowd, “Together, we can build a caring society, piece by piece, hospital by hospital, community by community.”

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Is my home too big an insurance risk?

Q. My home insurance is being canceled, and I’m actively looking around to replace it. The excuse I got was that the companies that used to insure find the risks in flood and wind-prone areas are now too great. I understand this, so I’m wondering if there are things I can do to make my home less of an insurance risk to a company. Are there reasonable upgrades I can make, and what are they?

A. The answer has two sides, like a doubleedged sword. First, yes, there are things you can do to your home to make it easier to insure. But the second part is applying the meaning of the word “reasonable.” Next, you have to understand that, like other forms of gambling, which is what insurance really is, do you have a chance to win back your money, your insurance payments, or your investment in your property to presumably reduce the payments?

Again, insurance is a legalized form of gambling, extensively regulated but sometimes loosely enforced. Many people say, when describing gambling casinos, that the house always wins in the end, and with a few exceptions, casinos rarely fail. Insurance companies have been hit with one disaster after another due to strange global weather that some deny is a trend, but those companies aren’t as care-less, and they invest heavily in statistical analysis, so you can bet that if they’re pulling out of certain areas, they know something.

So, a “reasonable” investment to make your house easier or more attractive to insure often ends up being unreasonable, or is based on faulty assumptions. For example, you may add a steel roof and concrete composite siding as a more reasonable and less costly wind-resistance improvement, only to discover that the insurance company thinks you should still have raised your home, because they think flooding is a bigger and more frequent risk to insure.

Add to that the fact, as some insurers will point out when you complain, that by making the improvements, you increase the cost of reconstruction. That’s a good argument, one you’ll never win. The same thing happens with alarm systems, fencing your property or removing trees that could fall on your roof.

Make improvements that help you to recover more healthfully, safely and economically, for your own assurance. I am convinced, as you can see, that all the effort you put in is not universal in your neighborhood, and insurance companies look at whole areas, not just your home, for insurability. Even the Federal Emergency Management Agency is a large and extremely indebted insurance company, funded with the help of tax dollars and losing billions. So before you make changes and improvements, remind yourself that you’re doing this for yourself, not to reduce insurance costs. As Walter Cronkite used to say when he signed off on his broadcast of “The CBS Evening News” when I was a kid, “And that’s the way it is.” Good luck with whatever you decide to improve.

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GOP cuts to health care will hurt Long Island families

one of the top issues I heard about when I campaigned for Congress was that it was getting more expensive to live on Long Island, and people were worried about whether they could afford to stay here. And as we face a cost-of-living crisis, the rising cost of health care has become crippling to young people, families and seniors alike.

LAURA A. GiLLEn

Rising medical bills are forcing Americans in every state to face the prospect of choosing between paying for groceries and going to the doctor’s office. When I came to Congress, I vowed to work in a bipartisan way to reduce Nassau County families’ cost of living, and in particular the cost of health care.

Unfortunately, we have seen the congressional majority refuse to act on bringing down the costs of prescription drugs or monthly insurance bills. In fact, their cuts to our medical system will move us in the wrong direction and raise Americans’ medical expenses. First they passed the “Big Beautiful

WBill” without any bipartisan input earlier this year. It included the largest cuts to Medicaid in its history, which will result in millions of Americans losing their insurance coverage and make it harder for seniors to afford nursing homes or other long-term care.

pThe impact of these budget cuts will stretch far beyond just those on Medicaid. At a nonpartisan budget briefing I held earlier this year with Rep. Tom Suozzi, hundreds of Long Islanders heard from former Northwell Health CEO Michael Dowling about how the cuts to Medicaid mean that all Americans can expect more expensive insurance coverage and reduced services at hospitals, doctors’ offices and other health care providers.

would throw millions of Americans into financial uncertainty.

Preserving these tax credits should be a bipartisan priority. In the House, I called for both sides to come on board and help American families. But the majority refused to discuss the issue, and instead passed a continuing resolution that will allow the credits to expire at the end of the year. Since then, they have refused to even negotiate a bipartisan path forward despite the credits’ looming end.

reserving Affordable Care Act tax credits should be a bipartisan priority.

Next, as we were looking to fund the government, Democrats sought to discuss with Republicans the urgent need to keep health care affordable by extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that have helped millions of families afford health care by reducing their monthly insurance bills. For years, families in both red and blue states have relied on these credits for coverage, but they are set to lapse at the end of the year, which

I’ve heard from many Nassau County residents who are deeply concerned that their health care costs are set to skyrocket under the majority’s plan. A Floral Park woman was notified that her monthly insurance premium would rise by $1,500, and an Oceanside resident reported that her premiums, deductibles and co-pay were all set to increase drastically. When these premiums go up, families will have no choice but to go uninsured, and young people will forgo insurance coverage.

When the uninsured rate increases, the cost of health care rises for us all. Health care experts at the nonpartisan Century Foundation have warned that

the expiration of these tax credits will result in the largest single-year premium spike in our nation’s history for all Americans, even those with private insurance. The nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation reports that a family of four could see their annual insurance bill increase by over $13,000, and a single mother could face a price hike of more than $10,000 for coverage, while a couple in their 60s might see their premiums rise by over $20,000.

This should not be a partisan fight. Every member of Congress has a responsibility to make life more affordable for the people we represent, and that is what I’ve been doing. I’ll work with anyone, from any party, to continue bringing costs down and to ensure that people have health care.

Right now, Congress should be in session and at work negotiating a bipartisan package that lowers costs and protects quality, affordable health care in an economically sound way. Instead of listening to the intolerant extremes on either side, we should work together to solve the problems that our constituents sent us to Washington to fix. I’m committed to that aim, and I’ll continue to fight for bipartisan solutions that lower costs and make life better for Long Islanders.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

Treat your brain better than your car

JR.

hen you take your car in for its yearly inspection, you want the mechanic to examine it thoroughly. Overlooking a vital system like the engine or transmission could lead to serious problems, including ones that jeopardize the safety of the vehicle’s drivers and passengers. You treat an annual physical with a doctor the same way: Why would anyone neglect having one of their body’s most vital organs — the brain — checked to make sure it’s firing on all cylinders? Unfortunately, it happens too often. In numerous ways, the brain is the body’s command center. Thoughts, emotions, senses, language, balance, coordination, breathing and heartbeat all depend on the brain. Yet many people don’t get regular memory screenings, even though these quick, noninvasive “checkups from the neck up” should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine. Fear is a common reason. Cognitive impairment can lead to loss of independence, functionality and treasured

remembrances of people, places and events. People may worry about being stigmatized, treated differently, pitied or seen as less capable by friends, family or coworkers.

All of that is a scary prospect. Being afraid is natural and understandable, especially for those exhibiting warning signs of memory impairment. Allowing that fear to prevent action, however, can lead to worse outcomes. Ignoring the problem hardly ever makes it go away, and usually exacerbates it.

depression, urinary tract infections and medication side effects are some treatable, if not curable, causes of memory impairments. Without a diagnosis, they cannot be corrected, which could cause more significant problems down the road.

i f you’ve never had a memory screening, or are overdue for one, get screened this year.

Lack of awareness is another reason people neglect the health of the brain. Many people don’t know what memory screenings are, why they’re necessary and where or how to get one. Nor are they aware of the importance of early detection of memory issues, even those caused by an incurable condition like Alzheimer’s disease. Others mistakenly believe that memory problems occur naturally as you get older, and that there’s nothing that can be done.

Education is critical to reduce fear and dispel the myth that any memory trouble equals a severe, untreatable illness or is an inevitable part of normal aging that afflicts everyone. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea,

Even if a memory issue is the result of Alzheimer’s disease, early detection matters. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s in the early stages gives people the opportunity to start medications sooner in the disease progression, when they’re most effective (or in some cases, are only offered then); enroll in a clinical trial; and begin therapeutic interventions that can help prolong cognitive functioning and enhance quality of life.

Memory screenings are equally important for people who aren’t experiencing symptoms of memory loss. Like other health screenings, they provide a baseline that can help uncover a potential issue sooner. Checking and tracking your blood pressure regularly enables doctors to act if you have hypertension, because high blood pressure increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke or kidney failure. Mammograms and PSA tests aren’t just given to people experiencing potential symptoms of breast cancer and prostate

cancer; all women and men of a certain age are advised to get them annually to catch cancer as quickly as possible. If you’ve never had a memory screening, or are overdue for one, make it a point to get screened this year. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free, confidential memory screenings regularly at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville. They are performed one on one with a qualified professional, and consist of a series of questions designed to test memory and other cognitive functions. The screening itself is not a diagnosis, but it can indicate if someone should see a physician for a more comprehensive evaluation of potential memory impairment.

Schedule an appointment for a free memory screening by contacting the center at (631) 223-4000. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to get screened. There are no minimum age or insurance prerequisites.

Your brain is far more important than your car. Buying or leasing a new one is impossible. Warranties don’t exist for it, and there is no extended coverage available for purchase. The one you have now is the only one you’ll ever own. Be just as vigilant about checking it each year.

Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Baldwin

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HERALD

As neighbors go hungry, D.C. plays politics

on Saturday, 184,000 Long Islanders across nearly every ZIP code in Nassau and Suffolk counties woke up without the food assistance they rely on to feed their families. Forty-eight hours later, under public pressure, the Trump administration announced that it would fund just half of the $100 billion Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The federal government shutdown has done the once unthinkable, gutting SNAP and leaving 42 million Americans — one in eight — wondering where their next meal will come from. SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, helps lowincome families buy groceries with electronic payment cards.

Our Long Island neighbors who participate in SNAP — working families, children, seniors and people with disabilities — receive an average of $187 per month to put food on the table. That’s for a full month. For their full families. Roughly 3 million people in New York rely on food stamps. They now face impossible choices between meals, rent and medicine.

In an extraordinary display of community compassion, restaurants across Long Island and around the nation have stepped up to offer free meals to families who have lost their food stamp benefits. These acts of generosity exemplify the best of community, reminding us that when Washington fails, ordinary Americans will take care of one another, because compassion — like hunger — isn’t a partisan issue.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency, and committed $65 million in new state funds to emergency food assistance, which will provide 40 million meals through food banks and pantries. SNAP recipients should continue submitting required documentation to their local Department of Social Services, because benefits will hopefully be paid retroactively when federal funding resumes.

Locally, Island Harvest and Long Island Cares continue to serve food-insecure families across Nassau and Suffolk counties. This self-inflicted crisis hits at the worst possible time, in the weeks before Thanksgiving, one of the busiest periods for food banks, while federal workers remain without paychecks due to the ongoing shutdown. Food banks are preparing for unprecedented stress that will be felt in communities everywhere.

We’re grateful for the compassion shown by restaurants and businesses that are stepping forward to feed their neighbors. We’re thankful for the tireless work of our food banks. These extraordinary acts of kindness demonstrate the

If you need food assistance

Call 211 for immediate help finding your nearest food pantry or community kitchen.

Island Harvest Food Bank works with more than 300 community partners throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Application assistance is available in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.

Website: islandharvest.org

Phone: (516) 294-8528

Long Island Cares serves families across the region with food pantries and emergency assistance.

Website: licares.org

Phone: (631) 582-FOOD (3663)

Some food delivery apps are offering grocery credits to SNAP recipients throughout November. Check apps for details on assistance programs.

Continue submitting documentation to your local Department of Social Services. Benefits are expected to be paid retroactively when federal funding resumes.

Restaurants offering free meals Some local restaurants are providing free meals to anyone with a SNAP card. Check social media or call restaurants in your area to ask about assistance programs.

How you can help

Donate to food banks:

■ Island Harvest: islandharvest.org, (516) 294-8528

■ Long Island Cares: licares.org, 631-582-FOOD (3663)

Financial contributions allow food banks to purchase and distribute food efficiently.

Volunteer: Food banks desperately need volunteers to sort, pack and distribute food across Long Island. Even a few hours makes an enormous difference. Contact Island Harvest or Long Island Cares to sign up.

Support restaurants helping neighbors: Patronize local businesses that offer free meals to families in need.

strength of our communities when we support one another. But private charity, no matter how generous, cannot replace a federal program serving more people than the population of many countries. If demand skyrockets, local food pantries may have to reduce distribution portions and limit the frequency with which people can receive food. Families that have never needed help before — in every Long Island community — are about to discover what food insecurity feels like. And the economic ripple effects extend beyond hungry families. Food stamps generate $1.54 in economic activity for every dollar spent. This suspension hurts businesses, employees and entire communities from one end of the Island to the other. As well, hungry children

Their generosity deserves our support.

Contact your elected officials and demand action:

■ Sen. Chuck Schumer: (202) 224-6542

■ Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand: (202) 224-4451

■ U.S. Capitol switchboard (for your congressional representative): (202) 224-3121

Tell them Long Island families cannot be pawns in political games. The shutdown must end, and SNAP funding must be restored immediately.

Become a grocery buddy: Help a neighbor or stranger buy groceries. Even small contributions make a difference for families struggling to afford food.

will struggle to learn and behave. With many classrooms likely to have students on food stamps, the SNAP suspension will impact learning in schools across America.

Long Island will rise to this challenge, caused by Washington’s dereliction of duty, because that’s who Long Islanders are. The restaurants opening their doors to feed families in need, the food banks working overtime, the people becoming grocery buddies to help strangers buy food — these are the stories that define us.

But we must also demand accountability. The shutdown must end. Food stamps must be fully funded. And every elected official who played politics with families’ ability to eat must answer to voters.

opinions

Add project labor agreements to major school projects

From our city skyscrapers to the subways that keep our cities moving, union labor built this state. And now, as our schools age and our communities continue to grow, we have a new opportunity to show what it means to lead with our values.

The School Construction Fair Labor Act, sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez and I, is a chance for New York to show up for working class people and make sure the workers building our schools are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.

This bill would require project labor agreements, or PLAs, for all Long Island public school construction projects costing over $1 million. Before a single shovel hits the ground, PLAs lay out clear terms for wages, safety standards and conflict resolution. That means less

chaos on job sites, and a better final result for our school communities.

We already know this approach works. Research from Cornell University shows that PLAs make job sites safer and more cost-effective over time. That’s because they prevent the chaos that comes when non-union contractors underbid jobs by reducing wages and ignoring safety.

We’ve seen it time and again: When we cut corners on construction, our schools pay the price.

Tlot of our own talent here in our region. This isn’t a strong model for success, and puts our own unions at a disadvantage.

ensure that public dollars work to create local jobs and support a stable workforce.

School buildings that fall apart too soon. Heating systems that fail in the middle of winter. These are all costly and avoidable problems. By ensuring a stable, experienced workforce from the start, PLAs create the strongest conditions for a job well done.

This bill isn’t just about upgrading our schools — it’s about working-class Long Islanders. Right now, far too many school construction contracts are awarded to out-of-state firms that bring their own workforce, which bypasses a

Long Island public schools receive nearly 80 percent of their construction funding through the state’s Building Aid program. That’s hundreds of millions of public dollars flowing into the region every year. The question isn’t whether we’ll spend this money; it’s whether we will spend it responsibly. With 125 school districts, these are not small or occasional projects. They’re an important part of our public infrastructure, and they should be built to the best standards possible.

Requiring PLAs would ensure that public dollars work to create local jobs and support a stable, skilled workforce. Many PLAs include workforce development components that prioritize hiring from the local community, which includes Black, Latino, Asian American and Pacific Islander New Yorkers, and other underrepresented groups in the

trades. That helps create long-term opportunities for working families. It also supports small and responsible local contractors. PLAs don’t exclude non-union firms; they just require everyone to play by the same rules. That levels the playing field for businesses that do their part to pay fair wages and provide workers’ benefits. This bill would also provide clarity and consistency. As things stand now, each school district manages its construction bidding process independently, which leads to unpredictable results and unequal standards. A uniform PLA requirement for projects over $1 million would offer a reliable baseline, while still giving our local school leaders the flexibility they need.

At its core, the School Construction Fair Labor Act is about making sure public money works for the public good. That means investing in our infrastructure, and in the people who build it. Let’s pass this legislation, and make sure our schools are built to last, by workers who are valued and paid fair wages.

Framework by Jacqui Kiddle