Bellmore Herald 04-09-2026

Bellmore Chamber celebrates Easter

The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores celebrated its annual Easter Parade on April 4. Story, additional photos, Page 3.

Calhoun H.S. senior mentors peers in blood cancer fundraising campaign

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ

hgaldamez@liherald.com

Jackson Amiruddin, a senior at Calhoun High School in Merrick, shifted his role this year in the Blood Cancer United Student Visionaries of the Year campaign from student fundraiser to mentor, guiding fellow participants through a seven-week effort that helped raise more than $1.48 million on Long Island while supporting teams as they worked toward a shared goal of helping patients and families affected by blood cancer. Amiruddin took part in the Student Visionaries of the Year grand finale at Pier Sixty at Chel-

sea Piers in New York City on March 6, which was the culmination of years of resilience, leadership and a commitment to helping others facing the disease he once battled himself.

The 17-year-old, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at just 13 months old, has transformed his experience into action through his work with Blood Cancer United.

Last year, Amiruddin co-led a team called the Hope Chasers in the organization’s Student Visionaries of the Year campaign, finishing as a top competitor among Long Island teams in the fundraising effort.

“I wanted to help a lot of the kids who were

Local band invited to California show

By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com

Four Bellmore musicians united to take their music to the next level, taking their talent all the way to Hollywood.

King Kaye, once the title of an individual artist, is now a fiveman-band and one of Long Island’s rising stars.

The four Bellmore members are vocalist Ben Kaye, bassist Matthew Kreuder, drummer Nick Tiongson with Matthew Marzilliano on the keyboard. The fifth member, Ray Bergin, plays the guitar. The band is composed of close friends, most of which go all the way back to elementary school and earlier.

tial success as an independent artist, Kaye was driven to share the art form with his closest friends.

I wouldn’t have wanted anybody else to be my band.

BEN KAyE Vocalist

“I got all my best friends from childhood I wouldn’t have wanted anybody else to be my band,” he said. “For a while I was performing solo, doing my own thing and with electronic music. Something came over me… even though I work in a recording studio and I have all these incredible instrumentalists, I also think my best friends are too… We didn’t even have to like practice to tap into the energy.

“I feel like a part of me was performing solo out of a place of fear,” he continued.

The band travelled across the country to perform at the Viper Room in Hollywood on March 13.

Ben Kaye, 26, started spinning records at 9 years old when he was given a DJ set from a family friend. Since then, he has been fascinated by music and pursued ambitious artistic projects that inspire and innovate. Following his ini-

“Being able to trust my best friends, how well they received it and adapted an art that’s so personal to me has really opened my eyes to the beauty of collaboration… I hope this is something that we continue doing forever.”

The band performed at the Berlin dive bar in New York City on Feb. 11, where a fateful encounter would send them

Continued on page 2

across the country a month later.

“The turnout was so incredible,” Kaye said. “We actually got an offer to perform at the Viper Room in Hollywood, like, the most famous venue in California. And when I told all the guys that we were like little boys again, jumping up, getting excited.”

Johnson has played music with friends since high school, including membership in other bands, with King Kaye reaching the highest.

“Ben’s trying to really do something with this music, so that’s what drew me in,” he said.

The style of King Kaye’s music is consistent with other works under the artist name.

“You get a wide mix of things, but you can say it’s that techno sound that makes you want to dance, but also has some trippy sounds in it, and we kind of took that music and converted it into something that we can play live at a club or a bar,” Johnson said.

Performing at the Viper Room was an incredible achievement; Johnson keeps a broad perspective, remembering how the story began.

“Me and my buddies, even though we’ve been playing music together since high school, we kind of went our separate ways in college and whatnot,” he explained. “Covid brought us back together. We said let’s set up in the garage and see what we make… Now we’re traveling to California to play gigs.

“If you’re reading this and you have a thought like, hey, I strum guitar, I sing, or I want to get into it… You never know what can happen if you don’t put yourself out there,” he said.

Marzilliano’s musical journey began at a young age — the King Kaye band serves as an opportunity to use over a decade of musical expertise.

“I took piano lessons when I was 12 years old, and I

loved it,” he said. “I just feel like there’s nothing like a keyboard, a piano where you could play a melody, bass chords, all in one instrument. It’s very full and powerful.”

Inside the studio, the band members’ practice sessions combine the clear pursuit of goals with trust and intuition.

“It’s not always easy to get five dudes together, but we find a day,” Marzilliano said. “We get together and we get our set list, and then we talk, what do we want to work on? We go through each song multiple times until we’re like, okay, we feel real good about

pursue the same musical goals: electronic music with a soul.

that. Even if there’s some more tweaking we got to do next week, we get back to it.”

The binding force of King Kaye’s music is a deep connection between artists, their music and their audience.

“Ben has been my best friend since kindergarten,” Marzilliano said. “I just love the direction of music that he’s taking, and it’s just a very refreshing new, powerful, catchy, fun sound that he’s creating and it’s really resonating with people. I’m proud of him.”

For more information about King Kaye and upcoming releases, visit KingKaye.com.

Bellmore Easter Parade brings spring spirit

The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores hosted its annual Easter Parade on April 4, drawing families and community members to the streets for a festive spring tradition.

Children and adults alike arrived in colorful attire, many wearing decorated bonnets and seasonal costumes, as they paraded through the downtown area. The event featured photo opportunities and visits with the Easter Bunny, creating a lively atmosphere for attendees of all ages.

Local businesses and community groups also participated, helping to line the parade route and contribute to the celebratory spirit.

The parade, a longstanding Bellmore tradition, marked the arrival of the spring season and the upcoming Easter holiday.

4

Crime brief

Queens man indicted in fatal crash that killed Merrick crossing guard

A Queens man has been indicted on manslaughter and other charges in connection with a drug-impaired crash that killed a longtime Nassau County Police Department crossing guard in Merrick, prosecutors said.

Joshua Alvarado, 30, was arraigned before Judge Robert Bogle on charges including second-degree manslaughter, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree assault, and multiple counts of driving while ability impaired by drugs. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded. If convicted, he faces up to seven to 15 years in prison. He is due back in court on May 5.

Anne T. Donnelly, of the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, said the defendant was allegedly “highly impaired by a powerful mixture of sedatives and illegal street drugs” when the crash occurred.

“A beloved crossing guard is dead because this defendant allegedly drove while highly impaired by a powerful mixture of sedatives and illegal street drugs,” Donnelly said. “He allegedly struck down John Miro on the very sidewalk where he had helped children safely cross for years, leaving a permanent void in the lives of everyone who knew him. We intend to seek justice for Miro’s family and the community that relied on his consistent, reassuring presence.”

According to prosecutors, the incident happened about 8 a.m. on Feb. 26, when Alvarado was driving a commercial pickup truck eastbound on Sunrise Highway toward a service call. Authorities allege he fell asleep at a red light at the intersection of Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue.

When the light turned green, the sound of other drivers honking allegedly startled him awake. Prosecutors said he then drove diagonally through the intersection, mounted the curb and struck Miro, who was standing on the sidewalk clearing snow and assisting children crossing the street.

Miro suffered severe injuries, including head trauma, a broken hip and multiple broken ribs. He was taken to Nas-

sau University Medical Center, where he underwent emergency surgery. His condition worsened, and he died from his injuries on March 6, prosecutors said.

A toxicology report determined that Alvarado was allegedly impaired by Xanax and Clonazepam at the time of the crash. Authorities also reported the presence of a potent synthetic drug commonly referred to as “street Xanax.”

Alvarado was arrested the day of the crash by detectives from the department’s 1st Precinct Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Nicole Vota of the Vehicular Crimes Bureau.

The charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

—Hernesto Galdamez

Gas prices climb as global tensions push costs

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Drivers across Long Island are feeling the pinch at the pump as gasoline prices continue to climb amid rising wholesale costs and escalating geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Iran.

According to data from GasBuddy, average gasoline prices on Long Island rose 14.4 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching $3.97 per gallon. Prices are up 76.2 cents from a month ago and nearly $1 higher than this time last year.

The national average has also increased, rising 11.8 cents over the past week to $4.06 per gallon. Diesel prices climbed even more sharply, up 20.7 cents week-over-week to $5.576 per gallon.

In nearby areas, prices remain elevated as well. Drivers in New York City are paying an average of $4.08 per gallon, while motorists in Trenton and Bridgeport are seeing averages of $4.09 and $4.03, respectively.

The spike comes as energy markets react to ongoing uncertainty tied to global oil supply routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global crude shipments. As of press time, tensions between the United States and Iran have heightened concerns about potential disruptions to oil flows through the region, contributing to volatility in fuel markets.

“Gasoline prices are poised for another jolt this week,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. He noted that continued increases in wholesale costs have yet to be fully reflected at the consumer level and warned that the national average could climb into the $4.20 to $4.35 range in the coming days.

Local residents and commuters in the Bellmore-Merrick area said the increases are already affecting household budgets and travel habits.

The national average of gasoline has increased, according to data from GasBuddy. Prices are up

month ago and nearly $1 higher than this time last year

“I’ve definitely started combining errands just to save trips to the gas station,” said Bellmore resident Maria Lopez. “It adds up quickly when prices keep going up every week.”

Daniel Roth, who stopped at the Mobil gas station on Merrick Road, said he has begun monitoring station prices more closely. “

There’s sometimes a 20 to 30 cent difference just a few blocks apart,” he said. “You really have to shop around now.”

Others expressed concern about broader economic

impacts if prices continue to rise.

“It’s not just gas—it’s everything that depends on transportation,” Carla Jennings said, who Ubers in the area. “Higher fuel costs eventually show up in delivery fees and prices across the board.”

Analysts say the outlook remains uncertain, with fuel prices closely tied to global supply conditions and geopolitical developments. For now, drivers in Long Island and across the region can expect continued fluctuations at the pump as markets respond to ongoing international tensions and supply pressures.

ELIZABETH POIROT

WEST HEMPSTEAD Senior Lacrosse

ONE OF NASSAU COUNTY’S most prolific scorers, Poirot shares the Herald’s 2026 High School Lacrosse preview cover with Seaford’s Brian Falk. Poirot earned Honorable Mention

All-County honors last spring after dominating the scoresheet for a second straight season and helping the Rams to 11 wins. As a junior, she racked up 77 goals to go along with 38 assists. This after in 2024 the dynamic attack scored 74 goals and had 25 assists.

games to watch

Friday, April 10

Softball: Plainedge at Mineola

Softball:

Softball: Floral Park at South Side

Softball: East Meadow at Farmingdale

Baseball: Kennedy at Calhoun

Baseball: Long Beach at South Side

Baseball: Glen Cove at Hewlett

Baseball: Garden City at MacArthur

Boys Lacrosse: Wantagh at North Shore

Girls Lacrosse: Oceanside at Wantagh 11

Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Lynbrook 11 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Elmont 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 11

Girls Lacrosse: East Meadow at Plainedge 9 a.m.

Softball: V.S. Central at V.S. South 10 a.m.

Softball: North Shore at Hewlett 10 a.m.

Softball: Freeport at East Rockaway 10 a.m.

Softball: Massapequa at Oceanside 10 a.m.

Softball: Elmont at West Hempstead 10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Locust Valley at Seaford 2 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last year. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Mepham softball reloads for more

By PATRICK MOQUIN sports@liherald.com

Mepham softball coach Tom Simone is over the moon with the development his roster has experienced in recent years. After capturing back-to-back county championships in 2021 and 2022, the Pirates have regrouped to form yet another titanic group, which could be poised to make a similar run.

“I have 12 juniors on the roster, but I think five of them I pulled up in eighth grade, and then they had a little bit more as freshmen,” Simone said. “So these girls have been together now with me for four years. And then having the four seniors, they’re in control of their team, which is really nice.”

Most of Mepham’s contributors might have another year, but outfielder Avery Betancourt is one of four seniors trying to make one last run in Nassau Class AA. In the March 25 season opener against MacArthur, she earned the 100th hit of her varsity career in a convincing 8-0 victory over MacArthur.

“This is the start of her fifth year,” Simone said. “So basically, she almost did it in four. She also has, to date, 62 stolen bases. But no, for MacArthur, it was just a good performance, defensively with the pitching and offensively with the bats.”

While many softball coaches depend on one pitcher to carry them through multiple games, Simone depends on a rotation which may cycle through for one another. Junior Keira Ulmschneider will lead the way and will be helped along by senior Jessica Heine, junior Frankie Dato, and freshmen Olivia Zukowski and Laci Linekin.

“Olivia, who’s my freshman, is going to pretty much dominate being the closer this year,” Simone said. “I have a bunch of middle relievers. between Jess, Jessica, Frankie, and Laci. I have a lot of options this year with a roster of 19.”

After defeating MacArthur, the Pirates dropped their next two games to Syosset and Seaford, taking nothing away from their season-long potential.

Leo is one of a dozen juniors looking to lead the Pirates on a deep playoff run.

On March 30, Ulmschneider pitched a gem, only to be outdueled by Seaford ace Riley Betz, who struck out 14 Mepham batters in a 3-2 game.

“Seaford was a tough loss because we gave them all the runs with four errors,” Simone said. “We should have won that game.”

Alongside Betancourt in a loaded Mepham lineup, Heine and Linekin combined for five hits in seven at-bats in the win over MacArthur. When they’re not pitching, Heine is a key playmaker at second base, while Linekin can fill in as needed.

Senior catcher DeAnna Cinquemani

and junior third baseman Lauren Leo have also made an instant impact at the plate, rounding out a Mepham lineup which offers little chance for opposing pitchers to escape. Leo and Zukowski racked up a pair of RBIs each against MacArthur, while Cinquemani went 2-for-3 in the victory.

Simone said the goal is to create a unit so glued together that it could produce at any point in the lineup. Despite having 12 juniors, most of the girls have already been playing together so long that familiarity is a key factor. It’s a highly potent outlook for a school with a history of repeat success.

Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards honor top female leaders and innovators

By Abbey Salvemini

The room at The Heritage Club at Bethpage was filled with energy, ambition and a shared sense of purpose on March 25 as business leaders gathered for the 2026 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards. This annual event honored outstanding women who are not only achieving success within their respective industries but also driving innovation and meaningful change across them.

At the heart of the evening was a clear and resonant message: women are no longer waiting for opportunities to be granted; they are creating their own paths and redefining leadership on their own terms.

Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations and events at Richner Communications, set the tone early in the night, encouraging attendees to “take a look around this room” as a reflection of progress. She also emphasized the significance of the occasion. “Tonight is about celebrating the incredible women who are leading, building and shaping our community,” she said.

She added that the event is part of a broader mission to create spaces “where women don’t just sit at the table, they own the room,” reinforcing the evening’s theme of empowerment and visibility.

She praised the honorees not only for their professional achievements but also for their role in transforming their industries. “You are not just leaders in your field, you are redefining them,’ she said.

Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications, echoed that statement, reflecting on the company’s history and his mother, Edith Richner, a co-founder who once stood alone as the only woman at the table nearly six decades ago. “If she were here tonight, she would be incredibly proud to see a room filled with such accomplished, driven and inspiring women,” he said.

The evening also highlighted the importance of giving back, with proceeds supporting Baby Essentials of Long Island, an organization dedicated to helping families in need provide safe and healthy starts for their children. Richner emphasized the organization’s mission to assist parents facing financial hardship and other challenges, adding a deeper sense of purpose to the celebration.

The honorees themselves brought the evening to life, sharing personal

stories of resilience, leadership and determination that resonated throughout the room.

Among them, Carol Gomes was recognized in the Healthcare and Wellness category, highlighting her leadership as CEO and COO of Stony Brook University Hospital. Reflecting on what it means to be a woman in business today, she described it as a sense of empowerment and the confidence to lead with strong conviction.

“We are nowhere near where we need to be; we’re making progress, but there are still many opportunities to advance women into higher leadership positions,” she said.

Ana Ludemann, MBA, was honored in the Financial Services category, celebrating her success in a competitive, male-dominated industry. Now a vice president and wealth management financial advisor, she built her career after arriving in the United States in 2014 with just $100. Her journey underscored the importance of perseverance and mindset.

“If you work hard and do right by people, there is no way you will not succeed,” she said, adding that resilience is defined not by obstacles, but by how one responds to them.

Honorees in the Insurance and

Rising Stars Under 40, Evelyn Gellar and Jillian Kashuba of Forest Hills Financial Group, echoed the evening’s central themes. Together, they emphasized that while women are increasingly supporting one another and rising into leadership, challenges remain — particularly around work-life balance and equitable opportunities. Their message was clear: building networks and lifting each other up is essential to sustaining momentum in a competitive industry.

Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of the Power Team award, which honored a group of women from St. Joseph’s University. Among them, Jessica McAleer Decatur, Vice President of marketing and communications, reflected on the significance of the recognition and the responsibility that comes with it.

“To follow in the footsteps of these pioneering women is deeply meaningful. As part of the next generation of women leaders, I hope not only to carry forward their legacy, but also to inspire the next generation,” she said.

Throughout the evening, the room buzzed with energy and camaraderie as powerful women mingled,

exchanged stories and shared insights across industries. The atmosphere reinforced the idea that success is not achieved in isolation, but through collaboration, mentorship and a shared commitment to lifting others along the way. Conversations extended beyond individual accomplishments, focusing instead on creating lasting impact and opening doors for the next generation of women leaders.

The event also celebrated the sponsors and partners whose support made the evening possible, including Forest Hills Financial Group, Long Island Contractors Association, and our centerpiece sponsor, St. Joseph’s University. Their involvement underscored the Long Island business community’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion and opportunity. As the evening ended, the message remained clear: progress is underway, and the future of women in business is being shaped through the shared determination and collaboration of everyone present.

To learn more, see additional photos and view the complete list of honorees and sponsors, visit richnerlive.com.

Sixth-grade performers from across the North Merrick School District brought “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” to life during their March performances, showcasing colorful costumes, imaginative staging and a cast of familiar characters from the classic tale.

Sixth graders bring “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” to life

Sixth graders from across the North Merrick School District tumbled down the rabbit hole into an adventurous new world as they presented their rendition of “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” with performances on March 27 and 28.

Based on the classic tale, the production followed Alice as she journeyed through the whimsical world of Wonderland after chasing the White Rabbit, encountering eccentric characters and navigating a series of surreal challenges that tested her sense of identity and imagination.

Dozens of young performers practiced lines and songs to bring the story’s colorful characters to life, from the curious Alice to the energetic Mad Hatter and the ever-hurried White Rabbit.

As the show came together, students learned the value of teamwork, confidence and creativity.

— Hernesto

Galdamez

Talbot,

principal of

Elementary School and the 6th Grade Theatre Arts Program, and Joyce Kelley, director and choreographer, at the North Merrick School District production of “Alice in Wonderland Jr.”

30 teams collectively raised a record $1.48M

like me,” Amiruddin said. “Hopefully help them have a better childhood than I was able to with all the hospital visits and everything.”

The campaign challenges high school students across Long Island to raise money for blood cancer research, advocacy and patient support during an intensive seven-week period. This year, 30 teams collectively raised a record, nearly doubling last year’s total of about $850,000.

“It’s a seven-week fundraising challenge where high school students compete to raise the most money,” Clara Leyendecker, a campaign development manager with Blood Cancer United, said. “They raised $1.48 million in seven weeks — a new record for Long Island.”

Leyendecker said the campaign’s growth this year reflected both the dedication of student participants and the strength of the candidate class guiding it.

“Seeing that kind of growth in one year was just incredible,” she said. “It was a very, very special candidate class.”

Rather than compete again this year, Amiruddin stepped into a leadership role, serving on the campaign’s leadership committee as a mentor to other student teams.

“I wanted to see what I could do to help the next people,” he said. “I had so much joy when I raised all that money, and I wanted to help other people feel that.”

In that role, Amiruddin guided students through the same process he experienced — offering advice, encouragement and perspective.

“A lot of it is communication,” he said. “You have to give your ideas, but

also receive others’ ideas so everyone feels connected.”

He emphasized lessons he learned firsthand during his own campaign, including perseverance and focusing on the cause rather than competition.

“Don’t think of it as a competition,” Amiruddin said. “Your real motivation should be helping people, not beating others.”

Emily Kesler of Bellmore, who also served on the leadership committee, said the experience left a lasting impact on her.

“It was truly so special to be a part of something greater than myself and contribute to a cause that impacts more people than we realize,” Kesler said.

“The experience taught me teamwork, empathy, and responsibility, and it showed how small actions can create

News brief PSEG reminds residents to stay vigilant

Scammers posing as utility workers continue to target Long Island residents year-round, using phone calls, fake websites and even in-person visits to pressure customers into making immediate payments, according to PSEG Long Island officials.

The company is urging customers to take a moment to verify any unexpected communication before taking action, especially when faced with threats of immediate service shutoff.

“PSEG Long Island wants customers to remember one simple thing: Stop and verify first. If someone threatens to immediately shut off your power, check your account online or call the number that’s printed on your bill to double check before giving them any money,” said Lou DeBrino, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Customer Operations. “It may be an advanced digital scam, an in-person scammer or a telephone call, but nearly all scammers present an urgent problem in the hopes that their

victims panic and miss all the clues that they’re not who they appear to be. If you are unexpectedly contacted by someone claiming to be from PSEG Long Island and threatening to immediately shut off your power without payment, take a step back. Contact PSEG Long Island independently and verify before acting.”

Scammers also frequently use “spoofing” technology to make it appear as though calls are coming directly from PSEG Long Island. In other cases, callers may demand deposits for services such as priority meter installations — a request the company said is not legitimate.

Customers who are unsure about the authenticity of a call or email are advised to hang up and contact the company directly at (800) 490-0025.

- Jordan Vallone

meaningful change in a community and far beyond.”

Leyendecker said Amiruddin’s impact extended beyond fundraising totals.

“He’s the epitome of a survivor — what we call a ‘thriver,’” she said. “He’s taken what he went through and made it his mission to give back.”

She added that Amiruddin’s mentorship made a tangible difference for students participating in the campaign this

year.

“He really made a huge difference in our kids this year,” Leyendecker said. “It meant a lot for them to have someone who’s gone through the process recently to turn to for guidance and advice.”

Amiruddin’s personal story played a key role in his fundraising success. During the campaign, he shared photos and details of his treatment, helping donors understand the real-life impact of their contributions.

“I feel like people were able to see the change that was being made,” he said. “It made them want to help more.”

That impact continues through the funds raised, particularly in patient support — a cause Amiruddin prioritized because of its direct impact on families.

“The money goes straight to families in need,” he said. “Even $10 can help pay for groceries or clothes. It all adds up.”

Now preparing to graduate, Amiruddin said he plans to remain involved with the organization in any way he can.

“I think this is something that should keep going for a long time,” he said. “I’ll do as much as I can to help.”

For students considering joining the campaign, his message is simple: “Just do it,” Amiruddin said. “No matter how much you raise, you’re making a difference in someone’s life.”

invites you and your family to visit the

Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities.

The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.

L.I. Association hosts state transport chief

Presentation by DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez ranges from speeding to potholes

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

The Long Island Association hosted state Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez as a guest speaker last week. Dominguez spoke about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fiscal year 2027 executive budget and policy proposals for the DOT.

Appearing at LIA headquarters in Melville on March 31, Dominguez explained that Hochul’s administration matched the federal funding for New York state’s transportation needs from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 with a five-year, $35 billion plan. Hochul added $800 million to the plan last year to offset the cost of tariffs and inflation.

“Our federal dollars are expiring on Sept. 30, which presents a unique challenge,” Dominguez said. “We need to make sure that we are positioning New York for the next level of transportation funding.”

She detailed Hochul’s proposed spending plan, which totals $260 billion. Federal funding is down 11.4 percent, or $10.3 billion, and state operating funds have increased by $157 billion. The state is expecting $17 billion more in state revenue over the next two years than earlier estimates.

“The governor is committed to economic growth and making sure there is a social safety net, and funding that social safety net across the board without increasing taxes,” Dominguez said. “In sum, the 2027 Executive Budget successfully balances two simultaneous realities that we have real momentum here in New York, and addressing the volatility that we know is ahead.”

The budget plan includes automated work-zone speed enforcement with new

speed cameras. Dominguez noted that some drivers have been speeding at over 100 miles per hour through work zones, according to the cameras.

The budget proposes deployment of the cameras on non-controlled-access highways, like Sunrise Highway. It also proposes protections for highway maintenance workers against violent assault.

Dominguez also touched on Hochul’s plan to lower the cost of car insurance.

The plan proposes changes to the state’s auto insurance laws that will punish perpetrators of staged car crashes.

The spending plan also includes funding for filling potholes on main roadways. “We are on a blitz statewide addressing potholes,” Dominguez said. It proposes investments of $107 million for paving on Long Island, including 50 miles of the Northern State Parkway and 35 miles of Sunrise Highway.

Action Long Island representative Michael Rodin suggested more improvements he wanted to see. “We want to make sure public transit is a part of the DOT’s agenda in the future,” he said. “We want roads to be able to accommodate buses as well as more cars — a lot of people take public transit to work.”

When the presentation was open for questions, Dominguez addressed a concern about independent contractors’ coverage under the anti-assault provisions in the budget. “The worker assault provision covers state employees as well as independent contractors,” she said.

“We need to make sure elected officials understand that transit and the lives of transit workers are important, so they fund initiatives to help these efforts and these people,” Marc Herbst, executive director of the Long Island Contractors Association, said. “If we don’t ask, they don’t respond.”

Bessent, Blakeman tout Trump’s tax cuts

By JULIA CAPITELLI jcapitelli@liherald.com

To promote President Trump’s economic agenda, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent visited Long Island and took part in a panel discussion with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and business executives from across the county.

The March 30 discussion, at the county legislative building, focused on three aspects of the Working Families Tax Cut Act: the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime pay, the creation of so-called Trump Accounts and the higher cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes. Under the law, parents can open and contribute funds to accounts for their children under age 18. As part of the pilot program for the accounts, children born during Trump’s term will receive $1,000 from the Treasury Department.

“It’s something that’s going to help every family in America,” Blakeman, the Republican candidate for governor, said of the program.

The law includes an increase in the state and local tax deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000. It also allocates roughly $170 billion to carry out the administration’s immigration and border objectives, and raises the federal debt ceiling to $5 trillion.

“That’s the American way,” Bessent said of the tax cuts. “Work harder, keep more of your money.”

The SALT deduction avoids double taxation and allows certain taxpayers to reduce their federally taxable income. To offset the cost created by this and the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, the law cuts nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and reduces food assistance and clean-energy incentives.

Panelists shared their perspectives on the law, mostly as it relates to their businesses. Michael Serao, exec-

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and several business executives discussed President Trump’s economic agenda on March 30.

utive vice president and chief administrative officer of First Central Savings Bank, claimed that Trump Accounts could help students build financial literacy.

But much of the discussion focused on the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and the SALT deduction. “I am surrounded by hardworking people, who come into the diner and tell me how happy they are about their tax returns and about how much more money they are getting back,” Gus Tsiorvas, owner of the Embassy Diner, in Bethpage, said.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, the average tax refund this year is roughly 10 percent higher than it was in March 2025. “This means more discretionary spending here in Nassau County,” County Comptroller Elaine Phillips said, “which allows

Bruce not to raise taxes.”

Blakeman reiterated his assertion that Nassau is “the safest county in America where we haven’t raised taxes one penny in four years.”

In a statement about Blakeman’s use of taxpayer resources to campaign as everyday costs escalate, Democratic County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said the Bessent visit was “as shameless as it gets.”

“Nassau residents aren’t stupid — they feel the squeeze every time they fill up, check out at the grocery store, or pay a bill,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “The cost-of-living crisis is real, and it’s being driven directly by the disastrous tariffs and global instability coming from the same out-of-touch allies in Washington [Blakeman] continues to stand with.”

Alderman’s new book expands mission of Dress for Recovery

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

For women in the Bellmore-Merrick community facing breast cancer, Loraine Alderman has long been a source of comfort and support.

Even after moving across the country, the East Meadow native hasn’t stepped away from that mission.

Alderman — a former school psychologist who retired in 2022 due to the lasting effects of chemotherapy — has released her fourth book, “Breast Cancer: Guidance, Advice, & Personal Journeys,” coauthored with Katy Genseke and Kit Cheng. The book is intended to help patients, survivors and caregivers navigate the emotional and practical challenges that follow a diagnosis.

Drawing from her own experience and stories from women nationwide, the book focuses on accessible, practical guidance without overwhelming readers — an approach that has resonated strongly with readers.

“This book is extremely helpful for someone navigating their breast cancer journey as well as helpful for the caregivers in their life,” said Jerry Mutnick. “It gives insights, hopes and better understanding of the many steps along the way.”

“When you hear the words ‘you have cancer,’ everything changes,” Alderman said. “I wanted to create something that would actually help people — something I

Loraine Alderman has released her fourth book intended to help patients, survivors and caregivers navigate the emotional and practical challenges that follow a diagnosis. Alderman, right, with her husband, Bill, in 2020 for the opening of the clothing bank.

wish I had.”

Alderman was diagnosed with two breast cancers in 2019 and underwent a double mastectomy that July, followed by chemotherapy.

In late 2020, she founded Dress for Recovery, a clothing bank that provides free post-surgical garments and comfort items to women undergoing breast cancer treatment through the Chabad Center for Jewish Life’s Circle of Hope initiative.

The effort was born out of a gap she encountered during her own treatment.

“There’s not one store in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut where you

can walk in and buy this type of clothing,” she said. “Everything is online, it’s expensive, and you don’t know if it’s going to work.”

The program offers specialized shirts designed for surgical drains and chemotherapy ports, along with seatbelt covers and other recovery items at no cost. Patients can schedule visits to select items in person, an approach Alderman said helps restore comfort and dignity during a difficult time.

Dress for Recovery continues to serve Bellmore, Merrick and surrounding communities, even after Alderman relocated

to Colorado in 2022. Though no longer onsite, she remains closely involved, regularly speaking with patients and offering support as a survivor.

Her latest book reflects that same philosophy.

Unsatisfied with cancer narratives she found difficult to relate to, Alderman worked to compile real-world experiences from women of diverse backgrounds. Each chapter includes key takeaways along with diagnosis and treatment details, allowing readers to quickly find relevant information.

The book also includes sections on caregiving, grief, nutrition and sexuality, as well as a glossary of medical terms. Alderman said including caregivers was essential, noting their emotional and physical challenges often go unrecognized — something echoed by readers.

“Amazing, beautifully written, and grounded in deeply practical advice,” said Stephanie Rosiello. “I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone looking for direction, peace of mind, and a steady hand to hold during one of life’s most difficult chapters.”

Though now based in Colorado, Alderman remains connected to the BellmoreMerrick community, continuing her efforts to ensure no one facing breast cancer has to navigate the journey alone.

Alderman’s book is available for purchase on Amazon.

STEPPING OUT

‘Rent’ star Adam Pascal returns to reimagine the jukebox musical

By Iris Wiener

When Adam Pascal pulls into Long Island these days, it’s not just a commute; it’s a homecoming layered with memory, coincidence, and creative possibility. This spring, the Tony-nominated performer-turned-director from Syosset is channeling all of that into “Feels Like the First Time: The Foreigner Musical.”

The new production premieres April 17 at the Little Theatre on Long Island University’s Brookville campus.

The project, created in collaboration with the legendary rock band Foreigner, marks the launch of LIU’s New Works Initiative and Pascal’s tenure as the university’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence. But for Pascal, the journey to this moment is anything but typical.

The path to directing the show began not in a rehearsal room, but at a backyard barbecue.

“Tom Dunn [Tilles Center’s creative producer, executive/artistic Director and Dean of LIU’s College of Arts and Design] lives across the street from my sister. I first met Tom and his wife at a barbecue,” Pascal relates. “Tom said, ‘We’re doing this thing. Do you want to direct it?’”

From there, the pieces quickly began to align. A previous version of the musical had been developed, but Pascal and the team — including book writer Stephen Garvey and arranger David Abbinanti — set out to reshape it into something fresh: a high-energy, heart-driven story set in the 1980s, centered on three families whose lives collide when a rock star arrives for a backyard concert after an MTV contest win.

“We wanted to create something that was fun and that had heart, that understood its purpose using Foreigner’s music,” Pascal says.

That purpose, however, comes with a unique creative challenge. The musical weaves iconic songs into an original narrative — a process Pascal describes as both complex and deeply collaborative.

“You’re creating a story, and in many ways building a scene backwards,” he explains. “You have these lyrics that were never written to be narrative in that way, so you have to do a lot of reverse engineering.”

Still, that creative freedom is part of the appeal.

“We get to reimagine these songs,” he adds. “They’ve now become narrative storytelling songs.”

The new musical features a company of 26 performers, primarily LIU students — a fact Pascal calls fortuitous.

“The combination of this process, this particular show, and this university … it couldn’t have been a better melding of all things.”

For Pascal, working with students isn’t just about mentorship — it’s personal, as he has two sons the same age as the young cast. His directing style reflects that perspective, blending instinct, experience and a focus on emotional authenticity.

“I approach it from a much more naturalistic and real place. I’m trying to orchestrate a picture and to get them to use their emotions in a physical way.”

That lived-in approach comes from decades in the industry, which includes roles in Broadway’s “Aida,” “Memphis” and “Something Rotten,” besides the iconic“Rent.” However, Pascal quickly points out that he was never formally trained.

Works Initiative, an incubator for developing and refining new theatrical works by both emerging and established writers.

• Friday through Sunday, April 17-19 and Thursday through Sunday, April 23-26, varied times

• Tickets are $43.82, $17.82 students; available at tillescenter.org/events

• Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

“My approach can only be [described as] a layman approach. I’m fortunate enough to now have 30 years of experience making musicals.”

And yet, for all his Broadway credentials, Pascal is candid about the challenges facing the industry today — particularly the financial barriers that make developing new work increasingly difficult in New York City.

“We all have to change the mindset about working in New York,” he says bluntly, pointing to rising production costs and systemic issues. Instead, he sees projects like “Feels Like the First Time” as part of a larger shift — one that prioritizes creativity, collaboration and accessibility over tradition and expense.

“I want to take the power out of Broadway’s hands and put it back into the hands of people who make theater,” he states.

That philosophy is evident in the show’s development process, which Pascal praises for its efficiency and clarity of vision.

For LIU students like Anna Frost, being part of that process is nothing short of transformative. A senior serving as dramaturg for the show, Frost is deeply embedded in the rehearsal rooms, helping to shape the evolving script.

“It is so exciting for me to work on a show which is in development,” she says. “I get to work with a living, breathing text.”

For her, the experience underscores the importance of new work in today’s theatrical landscape.

“There has to be new art that is relevant to what is happening now,” she adds. “Getting to be a part of something that will be history is really cool.”

Pascal agrees and hopes the students recognize the significance of their involvement.

“They’ll forever be connected to this show as the first people that played these characters,” he says. “If the show becomes a hit, they’ll always have that on their resume.”

That sense of legacy resonates deeply with Pascal himself, particularly given his return to Long Island. He remains deeply connected to his roots, and optimistic about its potential as a hub for theatrical innovation.

“There’s no better place for it,” he says of LIU. “They have the facilities, the desire and the proximity to the city.”

As for what’s next, Pascal continues to develop new musicals through his production company, including an adaptation of “Ruthless People.” He’s also set to direct “Our Little Secret: A True New Musical” in Toronto. For now, “Feels Like the First Time” offers something that feels incredibly meaningful — -a chance to build, collaborate, and rediscover the spark that started it all.

Or, as Pascal might put it, to make it feel like the first time all over again.

Local favorite Mike DelGuidice returns to the Paramount stage with his popular residency, delivering the high-energy, feel-good performances that have made him a hometown standout. Backed by his powerhouse band, DelGuidice brings the music of his idol, Billy Joel, to life with passion and precision, celebrating decades of iconic hits in a rousing, crowd-pleasing show. A multi-instrumentalist who grew up immersed in music, DelGuidice’s deep knowledge of Joel’s catalog ultimately led to sharing the stage with the Piano Man himself, touring around the world. Alongside Joel’s beloved classics, he weaves in his own original songs, showcasing the songwriting that has earned him a devoted following. Whether performing on stage or connecting with fans through his “Live on the Porch” series, which brought audiences together during the pandemic, DelGuidice continues to share his love of music in ways that resonate far and wide.

Friday and Saturday, April 10-11, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Fleetwood Macked

Eighteen years ago

Fleetwood Macked set out to provide audiences with the truest live Fleetwood Mac experience as possible and haven’t stopped since. Much of the realism comes from the New York-based band’s history. Husband and wife musical team Hillary and Michael Epstein (Stevie and Lindsey) and friends Tracy Wells, Jay Novas, Phil Weiss and Andrew Nadien (Christine, John and Mick) have made great music together in various incarnations that finally all came together with their mutual love of Fleetwood Mac. They are and have always been professional touring rock musicians, which also adds to the authenticity of the sound of the band. Fleetwood Macked live brings audiences the passion, depth, heart, and the musicianship Fleetwood Mac’s music requires. Out of love and respect musical liberties are not taken, songs are recreated just as Fleetwood Mac intended them.

Friday, April 10, 8 p.m. $48. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

Friday Night Car Show

Drop by to check out hundreds of antique and custom cars, every Friday, through Oct. 30.

• Where: Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Broadway between Bellmore and Bedford avenues.

• Time: 5-10 p.m.

AARP Smart Driver Course

Bellmore Memorial Library offers a Smart Driver session. Ages 18 and up can attend the- driver safety course to earn a discount on auto insurance. $25 for AARP members, $30 for non-members. Registration required.

• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave., Bellmore

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Contact: bellmorelibrary.orgor (631) 689-5888

‘Dog Sees God’

Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance presents Bert V. Royal’s edgy comedy. The unauthorized continuation of the Peanuts comic strip, reimagines its characters as teenagers dealing with various contemporary issues including, identity, substance abuse, and relationships. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that’s both haunting and hopeful. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.

• Where: Hofstra’s Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater, Joseph G. Shapiro Family Hall, Hempstead

• Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; also April 12, 2 p.m.; April 16-April 19

• Contact: hofstra.universitytickets.com

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help

APR

19

Micky Dolenz

Micky Dolenz celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Monkees with a special tour honoring the band’s enduring legacy and timeless sound. In this nostalgic and high-spirited performance, Dolenz takes audiences on a musical journey through The Monkees’ rise to fame, performing their biggest hits in chronological order while sharing personal stories from his decades in entertainment. As the last surviving member of the beloved group, Dolenz brings both heart and history to the stage, paying tribute to bandmates Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith, while celebrating the fans who helped transform a fictional TV band into a global sensation. A true entertainment veteran, Dolenz’s career spans decades and disciplines — from his early days as a child star on “Circus Boy” to his work as a singer, actor, director and radio host. In recent years, he has continued to keep The Monkees’ music alive for new generations, including a solo tour performing the group’s 1967 album “Headquarters” in its entirety. This is sure to be a heartfelt, hit-filled evening that blends music, memories and a lasting connection to one of pop culture’s most iconic acts.

him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also April 14-15

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

Seasonal Sprouts: Flowers and Trees

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens to discover the wonders of nature with a one-hour guided tour through the gardens and woodlands, featuring naturethemed games and hands-on activities. This week, children explore plants big and small, learning how they grow and change with the seasons. Each session includes a simple planting or craft project for children to take home and continue their learning. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 11 a.m.-noon

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

APR 11

‘A Dream Is A Wish’ The enchanting A Dream Is A Wish princess concert returns to the Madison Theatre with new adventures and Disney Classics. Families are invited to sing along to all their favorite Disney songs including “Let It Go,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” “Part of That World,” “ A Whole New World,” and many more. Enjoy a magical journey and maybe even meet your favorite princess! Breakfast and tea ticket options also available.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: Varied times, also April 12

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

APR 14

North Merrick BOE meets The Board of Education holds its next meeting. Stay up to date on district issues.

• Where: 1057 Merrick Ave.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: nmerrickschools.org

Attendees connect with fellow book lovers and hear from prominent authors, including Hoffman, who will share stories from her new anthology, “The Best Dog in the World: Essays on Love.” Hoffman’s forthcoming novel, “Witches of Cambridge,” will be published this August (and is now in development for a television series), followed by the muchanticipated film Practical Magic 2, with Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman returning as the Owens sisters in September. Notable participants include “All My Children” star Susan Lucci, in keynote conversation with bestselling author and podcaster Adriana Trigiani about her new memoir, “La Lucci;” Jodi Picoult in keynote conversation with Alice Hoffman about storytelling in a time of book banning, musical director Tim Weil, who talks about his new book, “Making Rent: The Story Behind the Music That Changed Broadway. “ Registration is limited and is now open.

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

APR

15

K-Pop Dance

Kids in Grades 1-5 can enjoy a K-Pop dance session at Merrick Library. Learn to dance like your favorite K-pop stars and sing and act out scenes from the hit movie “K-Pop Demon Hunters” with Great South Bay Dance. Registration required.

• Where: 2279 Merrick Ave.

• Time: 4-5 p.m.

• Contact: merricklibrary.org

Merrick Chamber Luncheon

Join a day of networking with the Merrick Chamber of Commerce. $25.

• Where: 2162 Merrick Ave.

• Time: Noon

• Contact: merrickchamber.org

Writers & Readers Festival

Hofstra University alumna and novelist Alice Hoffman hosts the third annual Writers & Readers Festival, brings together students, teachers, librarians, emerging writers and the local community for an immersive celebration of storytellingboth the craft of writing and the realities of publishing.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: Ongoing through April 17

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000

North

APR

16

Bellmore BOE

meets The North Bellmore Board of Education holds their monthly meeting Let your voice be heard.

• Where: 2616 Martin Ave.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: northbellmoreschools.org

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

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF BUDGET

HEARING AND ANNUAL

MEETING AND ELECTION, BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW

YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public budget hearing of the Bellmore Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, NY, will be held at the C.A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, Bellmore, NY on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the expenditure of funds for the 2026-2027 school year and the budgeting thereof and for other business as is authorized by the NY State Education Law.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that an election to fill one (1) vacancy, for a term of three (3) years, for the office of member of the Board of Education, will be held at the C.A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, Bellmore, NY, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. The vote upon the 2026-2027 school year budget will also be held at said annual meeting, and on the following proposition: BE IT RESOLVED (a) That the Board of Education of the Bellmore Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”) is hereby authorized to undertake heating, ventilation and air conditioning system improvements and security enhancements, including (as and where required), upgrade and/or replacement of boilers, condensate tanks and piping; installation of cameras; acquisition of new equipment, wearables, hardware, software, building security and emergency communication systems and other devices, and wiring and cable upgrades (the “Project”); the foregoing to include the original furnishings, equipment, machinery, apparatus and ancillary or related site, demolition and other work required in connection therewith; and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto, an amount not to exceed $2,300,000; and (b) that $2,300,000 of funds on hand and available or expected to be on hand and available in the District’s “Capital Reserve Fund - 2023”, approved by the voters

of the District on May 16, 2023, plus any interest earnings thereon, are hereby authorized to be expended to pay the cost of the Project, and such expenditure is hereby approved; THERE WILL BE NO TAX INCREASE for District taxpayers on account of this Project if this Proposition is approved. This Proposition shall be independent of Proposition No. 1.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the school year 2026-2027 may be obtained by any resident of the district during the fourteen (14) days preceding the vote, except Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays, at the schools of the district from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on the District’s website.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to the Real Property Tax Law §495, the district is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by the statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Board of Education member must be filed with the District Clerk by 5:00 p.m., Monday, April 20, 2026. Such nominating petition must state the residence of each signer, the name and residence of the candidate, and be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified district voters. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be elected to office.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that personal registration is a prerequisite for voting, and no person will be entitled to vote at such election whose name does not appear upon the register prepared for such election; except that any resident of the District; who is permanently registered with the Nassau County Board

of Elections to vote and whose registration is current, shall also be qualified to vote at this election without further registration. Qualified individuals may register from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on days when school is in session at the District Office at 580 Winthrop Ave., Bellmore, NY, except that no registration shall take place less than five (5) days preceding the election, this year no later than 3:00 p.m. on May 14, 2026.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the register will be filed in the office of the Superintendent of Schools where it shall be open for inspection to any qualified voter of the District and in the District Clerk’s office in the Winthrop Avenue School from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. during the five (5) days prior to the election except Sunday, and by appointment only from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on the Saturday prior to the election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that applications for early mail ballots must be completed on a form prescribed by the state board of elections and available on the NYS Education Department’s Office of Counsel website, by visiting https:// www.counsel.nysed. gov/miscellaneous. Applications for absentee ballots must be completed on a form prescribed by the state board of elections and available on the NYS Education Department’s website https://www. counsel.nysed.gov/ miscellaneous. Early mail and absentee ballots are also available on the District website, www.bellmoreschools. org, or by contacting the District Clerk by email (arosenfeld@ bellmoreschools.org) or phone (516-679-2910). Completed applications for early mail and absentee ballots must be received at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to his or her designated agent. Early mail and absentee ballot applications will not be accepted before April 20, 2026. Early mail and absentee ballots must be received in the District Clerk’s office not later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election to be canvassed. A list of all persons to whom

early mail and absentee ballots have been issued will be available for inspection in the District Clerk’s office on each of the five days prior to the election during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., except Sunday, and by appointment only from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on the Saturday prior to the election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2018-d, any person serving in the military, including spouses and dependents, may register to vote in the upcoming school district election. A military voter who is a qualified voter of the district may obtain a registration form by contacting the District Clerk by email (arosenfeld@ bellmoreschools.org) or phone (516-6792910). A military voter who is duly registered may apply for a military ballot by requesting an application from the District Clerk. Completed applications must be personally delivered or mailed to the District Clerk and received no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. Military ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026 if signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto with a date which is not later than the day before the election, or not later than the close of the polls on May 19, 2026 if showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government. A military voter may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration form, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile or electronic mail in the request for such registration, ballot application, or ballot.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Board of Education shall convene a special meeting thereof at the C.A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center within 24 hours after the filing with the District Clerk of a written report of the results of the ballot, for the purpose of examining and tabulating said reports for the results of the ballot, and declaring the results of the ballot; that the Board hereby designates itself to be a set of poll clerks to

cast and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law Section 2019-a.2-b, at said special meeting of the Board.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that at the annual election of the Bellmore Union Free School District, qualified voters of the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District shall vote for the following purposes:

a) To vote upon the annual school budget for the 2026-2027 school year, and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the district for the foregoing purposes.

b) To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the meeting.

DATED: March 2026 Bellmore, NY

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

Angela Rosenfeld, District Clerk 159347

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PRESUPUESTARIA Y REUNIÓN ANUAL Y ELECCIÓN, DISTRITO ESCOLAR BELLMORE UNION FREE, MUNICIPIO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK

SE NOTIFICA que se celebrará una audiencia pública presupuestaria del Distrito Escolar Libre de Bellmore Union, municipio de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, NY, en el Centro de Educación Infantil C.A. Reinhard, Bellmore, NY, el martes 5 de mayo de 2026 a las 19:30 para tratar el gasto de fondos para el curso escolar 2026-2027, su presupuesto, así como para otros asuntos autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York. SE DA ADEMÁS AVISO de que se celebrará una elección para cubrir una (1) vacante, por un mandato de tres (3) años, para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación, en el Centro de Educación C.A. Reinhard, Bellmore, NY, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026. La votación sobre el presupuesto del curso escolar 2026-2027 también se celebrará en dicha asamblea anual, y sobre la siguiente propuesta: SE RESUELVE (a) Que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Bellmore Union Free, en el condado de Nassau, Nueva

York (el “Distrito”), está autorizada por la presente para llevar a cabo mejoras en los sistemas de calefacción, ventilación y aire acondicionado y mejoras de seguridad, incluyendo (cuando sea necesario), la mejora y/o reemplazo de calderas, depósitos de condensado y tuberías; instalación de cámaras; adquisición de nuevo equipo, dispositivos portátiles, hardware, software, sistemas de seguridad de edificios y comunicaciones de emergencia y otros dispositivos, y actualizaciones de cableado y cables (el “Proyecto”); lo anterior incluye el mobiliario original, equipos, maquinaria, aparatos y el sitio auxiliar o relacionado, demolición y otros trabajos relacionados con ello; y para gastar para ello, incluidos los costes preliminares y los gastos accesorios, una cantidad que no exceda los 2.300.000 dólares; y (b) que se autorizan por la presente 2.300.000 dólares de fondos disponibles o esperados en el “Fondo de Reserva de Capital - 2023” del Distrito, aprobado por los votantes del Distrito el 16 de mayo de 2023, más cualquier interés generado, para ser gastado en el coste del Proyecto, y dicho gasto queda aprobado; NO HABRÁ AUMENTO DE IMPUESTOS para los contribuyentes del Distrito debido a este proyecto si esta Propuesta es aprobada. Esta Proposición será independiente de la Proposición Nº 1. SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que cualquier residente del distrito podrá obtener una copia del extracto de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el curso escolar 2026-2027 durante los catorce (14) días previos a la votación, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos, en las escuelas del distrito de 8:00 a.m. a 4:00 p.m. y en la página web del Distrito. SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Inmuebles §495, el distrito está obligado a adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cómo el valor total de tasación en el registro final de evaluación utilizado en el proceso

presupuestario está exento de impuestos, listará todos los tipos de exenciones concedidas por la autoridad estatutaria y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, la cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir como pagos en lugar de impuestos y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas.

SE EMITE ADEMÁS AVISO de que las peticiones que nominen candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito antes de las 17:00 horas del lunes 20 de abril de 2026. Dicha petición de nominación debe indicar la residencia de cada firmante, el nombre y la residencia del candidato, y estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes de distrito cualificados. El candidato que reciba el mayor número de votos será elegido para el cargo.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que el registro personal es un requisito previo para votar, y que ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en dicha elección cuyo nombre no aparezca en el registro preparado para dicha elección; excepto que cualquier residente del Distrito, que esté registrado permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau para votar y cuya inscripción esté vigente, también estarán cualificados para votar en esta elección sin necesidad de registro adicional. Las personas que cumplan los requisitos pueden inscribirse de 9:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. los días en que las clases estén en curso en la Oficina del Distrito en 580 Winthrop Ave., Bellmore, NY, salvo que no se registre se realice menos de cinco (5) días antes de la elección, este año a más tardar a las 15:00 horas del 14 de mayo de 2026. SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que el registro se archivará en la oficina del Superintendente de Escuelas, donde estará abierto para su inspección a cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito, y en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en la escuela Winthrop Avenue de 9:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. durante los cinco (5) días previos a la elección, excepto el domingo, y solo con cita previa de 9:00 a.m. a 12:00 del mediodía

el sábado anterior a las elecciones. SE EMITE ADEMÁS UN AVISO de que las solicitudes para votos anticipados por correo deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la junta electoral estatal y disponible en la página web de la Oficina de Asesoría del Departamento de Educación de NYS, visitando https:// www.counsel.nysed. gov/miscellaneous. Las solicitudes de papeletas por correo deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la junta electoral estatal y disponibles en la página web del Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York https:// www.counsel.nysed. gov/miscellaneous. También hay papeletas anticipadas por correo y por correo disponibles en la web del distrito, www.bellmoreschools. org, o contactando con el Secretario del Distrito por correo electrónico (arosenfeld@ bellmoreschools.org) o teléfono (516-6792910).

Las solicitudes completadas para votos anticipados por correo y por correo deben recibirse al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Las solicitudes anticipadas de votos por correo y por correo no serán aceptadas antes del 20 de abril de 2026. Las papeletas anticipadas por correo y los votos por correo deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del día de la elección para ser entrevistados. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se han entregado papeletas anticipadas por correo y por correo estará disponible para su inspección en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en cada uno de los cinco días previos a la elección, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m., excepto los domingos, y solo con cita previa de 9:00 a.m. a 12:00 del mediodía el sábado anterior a las elecciones.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Educación §2018d, cualquier persona que sirva en el ejército, incluidos cónyuges y dependientes, puede

Public Notices

registrarse para votar en las próximas elecciones del distrito escolar. Un votante militar que sea un votante cualificado del distrito puede obtener un formulario de registro contactando con el Secretario del Distrito por correo electrónico (arosenfeld@ bellmoreschools.org) o por teléfono (516679-2910). Un votante militar debidamente registrado puede solicitar una papeleta militar solicitando una solicitud al Secretario del Distrito. Las solicitudes completadas deben entregarse personalmente o enviarse por correo al Secretario del Distrito y recibirse a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026. Las papeletas militares deben recibirse antes de las 17:00 horas del 19 de mayo de 2026 si están firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo con una fecha que no sea posterior al día anterior a las elecciones, o no posterior al cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026 si muestran una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o que muestre una avalación fechada de recibo por parte de otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos. Un votante militar puede designar una preferencia para recibir un formulario de registro de votante militar, solicitud de papeleta militar o papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico en la solicitud de dicha inscripción, solicitud de papeleta o papeleta. SE EMITE ADEMÁS AVISO de que la Junta de Educación convocará una reunión especial en el Centro de Educación Infantil C.A. Reinhard dentro de las 24 horas siguientes a la presentación ante el Secretario del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados de la papeleta, con el fin de examinar y tabular dichos informes para los resultados de la papeleta, y declarar los resultados de la papeleta; que la Junta se designa a sí misma como un conjunto de secretarios electorales para emitir y hacer escrutinio conforme a la Sección 2019-a.2-b de la Ley de Educación, en dicha reunión especial de la Junta.

SE AÑADE ADEMÁS

que, en las elecciones anuales del Distrito Escolar Bellmore Union Free, los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Central de Secundaria BellmoreMerrick votarán para los siguientes fines:

a) Votar sobre el presupuesto anual del colegio para el curso escolar 2026-2027 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del distrito para los fines mencionados.

b) Votar sobre las demás proposiciones que se presenten adecuadamente ante la reunión.

FECHADO: Marzo de 2026 Bellmore, NY

POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DISTRITO ESCOLAR BELLMORE UNION FREE

Angela Rosenfeld, secretaria del distrito 159349

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 OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING OF THE BELLMORE MEMORIAL LIBRARY TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of the Bellmore Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, will be held in the Bellmore Memorial Library, 2288 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore, New York, on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. prevailing time, for the purpose of voting, by paper ballot and ballot box, upon the following items:

(1) To adopt the Annual Budget of the Bellmore Memorial Library for the fiscal year 2026-2027, and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the School District; and (2) To elect one (1) Trustee to the Bellmore Memorial Library board to fill a five year term commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2031.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that for the purpose of voting at such meeting on Thursday, April 16,

2026 the polls will be open between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. prevailing time, and the voting will be held in the Bellmore Memorial Library, 2288 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore, New York; and

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for the Bellmore Memorial Library’s purposes, exclusive of public monies, may be obtained by any resident of the School District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said meeting, except Sunday, from the Library, located at 2288 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore, New York, during regular business hours; and

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Trustee of the Bellmore Memorial Library shall be filed at the Bellmore U.F.S.D. District Office, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, New York not later than 5:00 p.m. prevailing time March 16, 2026. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk, must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, and must state the residence of each signer and the name and residence of the candidate; and

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to the provisions of Education Law, personal registration of voters is required, and no person shall be entitled to vote at the meeting whose name does not appear on the register of the School District prepared thereof. All persons who shall have been previously registered for Annual or Special School District Meetings and who shall have voted at any such Annual or Special Meeting held or conducted at any time within the four (4) calendar years prior to April 16, 2026 shall be entitled to vote at this Special District Meeting. In addition, all those who are registered to vote with the Board of Elections of Nassau County pursuant to Article 5 of Election Law shall be entitled to vote at this Special District Meeting.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for early mail ballots must be completed on a form prescribed by the New York State Board of Elections. Such applications are available on the New York State Board of Election’s website https://www.counsel.ny sed.gov/miscellaneous, by visiting the School District website www.bellmoreschools. org, and at the district clerk’s office 580 Winthrop Ave., Bellmore, NY between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on days when school is in session. Completed applications for early mail ballots must be received at least seven (7) days before the election if the early mail ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to his or her designated agent. Early mail ballot applications will not be accepted before March 17, 2026. Early mail voter’s ballots must be received in the district clerk’s office not later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election in order to be canvassed. A list of all persons to whom early mail ballots have been issued will be available for inspection in the district clerk’s office.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that absentee ballot applications for the Bellmore Memorial Library election and budget vote are to be completed on a form prescribed by the state board of elections by visiting the NYS Education Department’s website, https://www.counsel.ny sed.gov/miscellaneous, the Bellmore UFSD website, (www.bellmoreschools. org), or by contacting the District Clerk by email (arosenfeld@bellmores chools.org) or phone (516-679-2910). Completed applications must be received at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the applicant, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the applicant or to his or her designated agent. Absentee ballot applications will not be accepted by the District Clerk before March 17, 2026. A list of all

persons to whom absentee ballots have been issued will be available in the District Clerk’s office on each of the five days prior to the election except Sunday, and by appointment only from 9:00 to 12:00 noon on the Saturday prior to the election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Bellmore Memorial Library may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk by email (arosenfeld@bellmores chools.org) or phone (516-679-2910). In such request, the military voter may indicate his/her preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail to the Office District Clerk at Bellmore Memorial Library. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a nonmilitary ballot application under Section 2018-b of the Education Law. The application for a military ballot should include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax or email.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a military voter’s original military ballot must be returned by mail to the District Clerk, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, New York Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk: (1) before the close of the polls of election day and showing a cancellation mark of the U.S. postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the U.S. government; or (2) not later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election; and

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a qualified voter whose ability to appear personally at the polling place is substantially impaired by reason of permanent

illness or physical disability and whose registration record has been marked “permanently disabled” by the Board of Elections pursuant to the provisions of the Election Law, shall be entitled to receive an absentee ballot pursuant to the provisions of the Education Law without making separate application for such absentee ballot.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public information hearing will be held at the Bellmore Memorial Library, Bellmore, New York on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of discussion of the expenditure of funds for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BELLMORE MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Angela Rosenfeld, District Clerk DATED: February 2026 BELLMORE, NEW YORK 158588

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE LA REUNIÓN ESPECIAL DE DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA CONMEMORATIVA DE BELLMORE CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD CONDADO DE NASSAU (NUEVA YORK) POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que una Reunión Especial del Distrito de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Bellmore Union, Ciudad de Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se llevará a cabo en la Biblioteca Memorial, 2288 Bedford Avenue, Nueva York, jueves 16 de abril de 2026 a la 1:00 p.m. hora prevaleciente, con el propósito de votar, por boleta de papel y urna, sobre los siguientes artículos: (1) Adoptar el Presupuesto Anual de la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial para el año fiscal 2026-2027, y autorizar que la porción requerida de la misma se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito Escolar; y (2) Elegir un (1) Fideicomisario para la junta de la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial por un período de cinco años período que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y finaliza el 30 de junio de 2031.

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que, con el fin de votar en dicha reunión el jueves 16 de abril de 2026, las urnas estarán abiertas entre las horas de la 1:00 p.m. y las 8:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, y la votación se llevará a cabo en la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial, 2288 Bedford Avenue, Nueva York; Bellmore; y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que cualquier residente del Distrito Escolar puede obtener una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente para los propósitos de la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial, excluyendo los fondos públicos, durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha reunión, excepto el domingo, de la Biblioteca, ubicado en 2288 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore, New York, durante el horario comercial habitual; y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de Fideicomisario de la Biblioteca Conmemorativa de Bellmore se presentarán en la Oficina del Distrito de U.F.S.D., 580 Winthrop Avenue, Nueva York a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente del 16 de marzo de 2026. Cada petición debe ser dirigida al Secretario del Distrito, debe estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito, y debe declarar la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y residencia del candidato; y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que, de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación, se requiere el registro personal de los votantes, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en la reunión cuyo nombre no aparezca en el registro del Distrito Escolar preparado por la misma. Todas las personas que se hayan registrado previamente para las Reuniones Anuales o Especiales del Distrito Escolar y que hayan votado en cualquier Reunión Anual o Especial celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años calendario

anteriores al 16 de abril de 2026 tendrán derecho a votar en esta Reunión Especial del Distrito. Además, todos aquellos que estén registrados para votar con la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral tendrán derecho a votar en esta Reunión Especial del Distrito.

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que las solicitudes de boletas anticipadas por correo deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la Junta Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Dichas solicitudes están disponibles en el sitio web de la Junta Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, https://www.counsel.ny sed.gov/miscellaneous, visitando el sitio web del Distrito Escolar www.bellmoreschools. org, y en la oficina del secretario del distrito 580 Winthrop Ave., Bellmore, NY entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m. en los días en que la escuela está en sesión. Las solicitudes completas para boletas anticipadas por correo deben recibirse al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta anticipada por correo se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Las solicitudes de boleta electoral anticipada por correo no se aceptarán antes del 17 de marzo de 2026. Las boletas de voto anticipado por correo deben recibirse en la oficina del secretario del distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de la elección para poder ser escrutadas. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se han emitido boletas anticipadas por correo estará disponible para su inspección en la oficina del secretario del distrito.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia para la elección de la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial y la votación presupuestaria deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la junta electoral estatal visitando el sitio web del Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York https://www.counsel.ny sed.gov/miscellaneous,

Public Notices

el sitio web de Bellmore UFSD, (www.bellmoreschools. org), o comunicándose con el Secretario del Distrito por correo electrónico (arosenfeld@bellmores chools.org) o por teléfono (516-679-2910). Las solicitudes completadas deben recibirse al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta se va a enviar por correo al solicitante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se va a entregar personalmente al solicitante o a su agente designado. Las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia no serán aceptadas por el Secretario del Distrito antes del 17 de marzo de 2026. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se han emitido boletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores a la elección, excepto el domingo, y solo con cita previa de 9:00 a 12:00 del mediodía el sábado anterior a la elección. ADEMÁS, SE DA AVISO de que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados de la Biblioteca Conmemorativa de Bellmore pueden solicitar una solicitud para una boleta militar del Secretario del Distrito por correo electrónico (arosenfeld@bellmores chools.org) o por teléfono (516-679-2910). En dicha solicitud, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Un votante militar debe devolver la solicitud original de boleta militar por correo al Secretario de la Oficina del Distrito en la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial. Las solicitudes de boletas militares recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de boleta no militar bajo la Sección 2018-b de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de una boleta militar debe incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la boleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico.

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que la boleta militar original de un votante military deben

devolverse por correo al Secretario del Distrito, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York Las boletas militares serán examinadas si son recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito: (1) antes del cierre de las urnas del día de las elecciones y mostrando una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los EE. UU. o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del gobierno de los EE. UU.; o (2) a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del día de las elecciones y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se determine que no es posterior al día anterior a la elección; y

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que un votante calificado cuya capacidad para comparecer personalmente en el lugar de votación se ve sustancialmente afectada por razón de enfermedad permanente o discapacidad física y cuyo registro de registro ha sido marcado como “discapacitado permanentemente” por la Junta Electoral de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley Electoral, tendrá derecho a recibir una boleta de voto en ausencia de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación sin hacer una solicitud por separado para dicha boleta de voto en ausencia.

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que se llevará a cabo una audiencia de información pública en la Biblioteca Bellmore Memorial, New York, el miercoles 8 de abril de 2026 a las 6:00 p.m. con el propósito de discutir el gasto de fondos para el año fiscal 2026-2027.

POR ORDEN DEL PATRONATO BIBLIOTECA CONMEMORATIVA DE BELLMORE

Angela Rosenfeld, Secretaria de Distrito FECHA: February 2026 BELLMORE, NUEVA YORK 158590

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF THE TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JACKIE HOFFMAN A/K/A

JACKIE M. HOFFMAN A/K/A JACKIE MARIE HOFFMAN, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 4, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 27, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 2749 Clarendon Avenue, Bellmore, NY 11710. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 56, Block 344 and Lots 23 and 24. Approximate amount of judgment is $318,812.33 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612618/2023.

Merik R. Aaron, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 232175-1 159094

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstMICHELLE ROITMAN, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 6, 2026, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and MICHELLE ROITMAN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME

COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on April 30, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2151 JOHNSON PLACE, BELLMORE, NY 11710; and the following tax map identification: 56-279-49, 418 and 419.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BELLMORE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 605895/2023. Charles Casolaro, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159285

LEGAL NOTICE

SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: Office of the NYS Attorney General Grassi Advisory Group Jasper Surety, Attorney in Fact, Arch Insurance Company

Valentine Krutys Edward J. Krutys, Jr. Glenn Krutys Catherine Ragusa Audrey Krutys any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-atlaw and next-of-kin of the said Madeline McGlynn, deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or

places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained

A petition having been duly filed by Nassau County Public Administrator, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501.

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on May 27, 2026, at 10:00 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Nassau County Public Administrator, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Madeline McGlynn, should not be judicially settled.

[X] Further relief sought (if any):

1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;

2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $ 31,965.98 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 9,105.33 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);

3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 74,670.00 as and for legal fees and $ 3,401.83 as and for disbursements, for a total of $ 78,071.83, of which $ 24,571.83 has been paid and $ 53,500.00 is unpaid;

4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $ 10,050.00, of which $ 4,050.00 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid;

5. Releasing and discharging the surety;

6. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on

account for the unknown next of kin of Madeline McGlynn, decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship;

7. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper.

Dated, Attested, and Sealed, March 18, 2026 (Seal)

HON. DAVID P. SULLIVAN

HON.JUDGE OF THE SURROGATE’S COURT Surrogate s/ Debra Keller Leimbach

Chief Clerk

Richard T. Kerins, Esq. Print Name of Attorney Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC Firm Name 516) 538-1111 Telephone 254 Nassau Boulevard South, Garden City South, New York 11530

Addres rkerins@mmkolaw.com

Email (optional)

NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or petitioner’s attorney. 159317

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR HARBORVIEW MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE LOAN PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-7, -againstWENDI OFFSEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN L. SINGER A/K/A STEPHEN SINGER, 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 March 3, 2026, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR HARBORVIEW MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE

LOAN PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-7 is the Plaintiff and WENDI OFFSEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN L. SINGER A/K/A STEPHEN SINGER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 5, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 25-33 PARK PLACE, BELLMORE, NY 11710; and the following tax map identification: 63-203-155. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT BELLMORE, 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.: 605027/2024. Scott H. Siller, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159281

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -againstAMALIA FRAINA, 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 March 2, 2026, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and AMALIA FRAINA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME

COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 5, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2157 LEGION STREET, BELLMORE, NY 11710; and the following tax map identification: 63-287-28.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT BELLMORE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611603/2023. Scott H. Siller, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159283

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR THIRD PARTY ADMINISTRATION OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION PLAN FOR 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District 1260 Meadowbrook Road North Merrick, New York 11566 The Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District hereby invites sealed proposals for providing third party administration of Workers’ Compensation Plan for the 2026-2027 school year.

Proposers may request copies of the Specifications by emailing a request to Melisa Stiles at mstiles@bellmoremerrick.k12.ny.us. In all cases, it must be understood that the conditions set forth in the request for proposals issued by the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District shall apply.

Public Notices

Sealed proposals shall be sent to the School District’s District Office at 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York 11566 and shall be clearly marked “RFP-Workers’

Compensation - Do Not Open Until April 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.” Such proposals will be received until April 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the District Office at which time and place all proposals will be acknowledged. Proposals cannot be dropped off directly by proposers nor accepted by District personnel. Proposers are strongly advised to ship proposal responses via US Mail, Fed-Ex, UPS and/or any authorized carrier that is able to officially track proposer’s response. It is further advised that arrangements be made for proposals to be delivered prior to the opening date to avoid any issues with delivery delays on the date of opening.

In no event shall the School District consider any proposal that is mailed but not actually received by the School District’s District Office at or before 11:00 a.m. on April 24, 2026. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject all proposals, waive any informalities or technicalities in proposals where the best interests of the respective school district may be served. Questions regarding this Request for Bids will be accepted by the School Business Administrator until April 22, 2026 at 1:00p.m. and answers to all questions will be distributed in the form of an addendum to all potential Proposers by email. Please submit your questions in writing via email to mstiles@bellmoremerrick.k12.ny.us.

The Board of Education reserves the right to consider experience, service and reputation in the field, as well as the financial responsibility and specific qualifications set out herein of the prospective bidder, in considering proposals and awarding the contracts. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all proposals in whole or in part, when in its sole discretion it deems that it will serve the best interests of the School District to waive technical defects,

irregularities and omissions; and to select in its sole discretion which of two or more identical bidders shall be awarded the contract.

Date: April 9, 2026

Board of Education

Bellmore-Merrick

Central High School District

1260 Meadowbrook Road North Merrick, New York 11566

Melisa Stiles, School Business Administrator 159518

LEGAL NOTICE

BELLMORE-MERRICK

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

1260 MEADOWBROOK ROAD

NORTH MERRICK, NY 11566

516-992-1090

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Education of Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, Merrick, NY at the Business Office, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, NY 11566-1500 on April 30, 2026 at 10:00am prevailing time for the 2026-2027 School Year for the following categories:

ATHLETIC SUPPLIES MUSIC INSTRUMENTS AND SUPPLIES

Specifications and instructions to bidders can be obtained by calling Educational Data Services, Inc., at (973)340-8800, or by logging onto our website at www.eddata.com. Click the red “I’m Interested” button and fill out the form listed under “Get Started as a Vendor”. Bids will be available ten (10) days before the bid due date listed in this notice to bidders.

No bids will be sent unless requested by the above procedure.

Bids will be addressed to the Board of Education, Attn: Ms. Melisa Stiles, BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, NY 11566. BIDS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN SEALED ENVELOPES AND CLEARLY MARKED WITH THE NAME OF THE BIDDER, BID TITLE, DATE AND TIME OF THE BID OPENING. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any informalities in any bid, or to reject

any or all bids, or to accept that bid, or any part of that bid, which is in its judgment, is for the best interest of the school district. No bids shall be withdrawn pending the decision of the Board of Education.

PRICES MUST REMAIN FIRM FROM JULY 1, 2026 UNTIL JUNE 30, 2027. Ms. Melisa Stiles School Business Administrator & Purchasing Agent Dated: April 9, 2026 159519

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 04/22/2026 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.

200/26. N. BELLMORELeon Petroleum LLC (BP Station # 15234), Renewal of grant to maintain one doublefaced, illuminated ground sign with nonpermitted price sign thereon; overall size 172.9 sq. ft. (86.45 sq. ft. per face); overall height 20’2”; setback 1.7’ from Jerusalem Ave. & 1.9’ from Newbridge Rd. & within the clear sight triangle., N/W cor. Jerusalem Ave. & Newbridge Rd., a/k/a 2425 Jerusalem Ave. THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00

P.M.

217/26. BELLMORESamantha Moro, Variance, side yards aggregate, maintain 2nd-story deck and stairs all attached to dwelling., W/s Len Dr., 657.74’ N/o Mertis La., a/k/a 2816 Len Dr. 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 Bellmore 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.

159469

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

Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE

ASSESSOR’S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2026/2027 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2027 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2026/2027 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2026. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals located in the offices of:

DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT

NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days. Dated this 1st day of April 2026.

JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 159474

Kyle Wasserman, senior from John F. Kennedy High School, Daniel Lin, senior from John F. Kennedy High School, Salvatore LoBrutto, a senior from Wellington C. Mepham High School and Alexandra LaBella, senior from John F. Kennedy High School.

Bellmore-Merrick students earn top honors at science fair

Four students in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s Advanced Science Research program were recognized as finalists at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair on March 12, earning top placements across multiple categories.

Daniel Lin, a senior at John F. Kennedy High School, received second place in the Transitional Medical Science category for his project, “Liquid Lens-Based Automation of Accommodative Facility Testing in Myopia,” which explores new approaches to improving vision testing technology.

Also earning second place was Alexandra LaBella, a senior at Kennedy High School, in the Biomedical and Health Sciences category. Her project, “The Effects of Adolescent Isolation on Social Behavior and Neural Activity Utilizing Brain Tissue from TRAP2 Male Mice,” examines the neurological effects of social isolation.

Two additional students received honorable mention in the Animal Science category. Kyle Wasserman, a senior at Kennedy High School, was recognized for his

project, “The Synergistic Effect of Spermidine and Urolithin A on Muscular Degeneration in a Drosophila melanogaster Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Model.”

Barbi Frank, the school’s Advanced Science Research teacher, praised the students’ efforts.

“These outstanding achievements reflect the dedication, curiosity and perseverance of our Advanced Science Research students,” Frank said.

Salvatore LoBrutto, a senior at Wellington C. Mepham High School, also earned honorable mention for his project, “Trabecular Bone Adaptation to Mechanical Stimuli in Proximal and Distal Regions of Canine Fabellae.” He is mentored by Advanced Science Research teacher Dr. David Kommor.

The Long Island Science and Engineering Fair is among the region’s most competitive academic events, showcasing original research from high school students across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Hernesto Galdamez

to

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How much extra money does a home cost these days?

Q. I saw a billboard and several TV commercials for something called “Let Them Build, NY,” and was wondering what you could tell me about it. The commercial said that there is an extra $82,000 spent on housing, per home, just due to government red tape. Is this true, and is anything being done about it?

A. There is plenty of finger-pointing in the construction industry, on top of the current cost increases due to tariffs, war and subsequent delivery costs due to higher fuel prices. But long before there were these current issues, government officials began, at every level, to either increase enforcement of existing regulations or to add regulations on top of what was already fairly complicated and burdensome.

Many years ago I was very active in the American Institute of Architects, to the point of being vice president of the Long Island chapter. I left them when I realized that they did not want to have the backbone to challenge, as a professional group, the regulations that cause construction and building design to become out of reach for a large segment of our population. In the years following, I daily encountered the thousands of building owners who never even attempted to comply with building regulations, basically skirting the entire permit process altogether because of the added expense.

The first and foremost expense is caused by the delays in getting through the approval process. There are so many reasons for the slowdown that it will take several columns, at 500 words apiece, to get through the long list of problems. If you ask a government official, they will point to the design professionals who “just can’t seem to get the regulations right” in their drawing submissions. I have often listened as officials complained to me about inadequate drawings being submitted. In all fairness, it is a two-way street, because the communications from officials back to the architects and engineers is often incoherent or incomplete.

When a plans examiner uses phrases like “demonstrate compliance” or “incomplete submission,” they are contributing to the problem, not solving it. Instead of pointing to specific sections of code and explaining the very specific problem, they communicate in generalities that are useless and cause a lot of extra work and discussion among the people trying to move a project forward. The phrase “If you aren’t part of the solution, you’re part of the problem” applies here.

I remember when a plans examiner would mark up and discuss specific drawings, and some even went the extra mile and pulled out their code books. In the era of computers, the internet and the “portal,” building officials often abbreviate and confuse both the professional and the customer by not pointing out that “the wording on Sheet 3 in the upper right-hand corner should state…” The lack of specifics creates lots of back-and-forth, delays and cost to the owner for the delays. Rent and taxes still need to be paid during the delays.

More to follow.

© 2026 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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Did I ever tell you about my grad school?

Rosemary and I and our son Sean recently visited the University of Notre Dame. In many ways it was a homecoming.

Rosemary, her mother and her sister graduated from St. Mary’s College, adjacent to Notre Dame, in the days before it accepted female students. Her father and two brothers are Notre Dame grads. Our daughter Erin and I graduated from Notre Dame Law School, and Sean earned his MBA from Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of Business. Sean is now an affiliated scholar at the university’s Liu Institute for Asian Affairs, and regularly lectures on Asian geopolitics and economic policy at the institute and the Mendoza School. When I was growing up as an IrishCatholic kid in blue-collar Queens, Notre Dame embodied Irish-Catholic immigrant success in becoming a part of the American fabric and achieving the American dream. That success was exemplified by Notre Dame’s fabled football teams, which dominated college

football during that era. Of course, there was and is more to the university than football. Notre Dame was founded at a time of severe anti-Catholic bias in the country, led by hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and the Know Nothing movement. There also was anti-Catholic bias in academia well into the 20th century, which Arthur Schlesinger Sr. described as “the anti-Semitism of intellectuals.”

My wife and I visited a university you may have heard of to watch our son in action.

Notre Dame, though, went beyond being a defensive religious fortress to making Catholic thought a part of American life, along with full acceptance of other religions, with open debate and finding common ground encouraged. Striking that balance can be difficult, but it is still working. Religious freedom was on display on the campus last year, when pro-Hamas demonstrations did not devolve into the antisemitic violence that occurred at other universities, such as Columbia. Students were given prescribed locations and time periods for demonstrations, and those who ignored them were arrested. The result was intelligent debate without violence.

Rosemary and I visited this year to meet with some of Sean’s academic colleagues and watch him in action. We

ialso walked around the campus, taking in iconic sights like the Golden Dome and rekindling old memories. On our first morning, we met with Frank Pomarico and his wife, Eileen. A Queens native and a graduate of St. Francis Prep, Frank was the captain of Notre Dame’s 1973 national champion football team, coached by the legendary Ara Parseghian. Frank and Eileen live in South Bend, and are amazingly friendly and interesting. It was a great way to start the day.

Then we walked over to the law school to meet with Diane Desierto, a professor of international law and human rights, a native of the Philippines, a friend of Sean’s and a true scholar. Desierto updated me on the state of the law school (all good), her strong belief that law students should be exposed to all sides of issues and that legal education must include a moral component.

We had lunch with Josh Gobel, a good friend and a longtime member of the South Bend Police Department who now works in the Notre Dame P.D. in various key capacities, including protecting visiting dignitaries, such as Supreme Court Justice Amy Cony Barrett — who

attended the law school at the same time as Erin. Great conversation with Josh, as always.

After a visit to the campus bookstore, Rosemary and I joined Sean at the Morris Inn on campus for dinner with Michel Hockx, a Chinese scholar and a professor at the Liu Institute, where Sean had just finished teaching a class. Hockx, who is originally from the Netherlands, has been teaching at Notre Dame for 10 years, and has worked with Sean on various projects. After dinner, we all walked to the Mendoza School to watch Sean give a lecture to a group of students preparing to visit Japan.

He discussed the intricacies of Japanese political, cultural and economic development since the end of World War II, the country’s relationship with the United States and the threats it faces from China. My biased opinion? A thoughtful, virtuoso performance. (He must have gotten it from Rosemary, who was a teacher.)

The next day we flew back to New York. Rosemary and I went home to Seaford, and Sean to his apartment in Manhattan — all three of us with new Notre Dame memories to share. And yes, Notre Dame football is still great. Go, Irish!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Will there be a blue wave this fall?

Is this the year of the blue wave? Will it be a modified one or a total rout? Is there any chance of a red wave? Not likely. But, once again, we are facing a year in which the U.S. House of Representatives, and perhaps the Senate, are up for grabs, and the early odds favor the party that’s out of power.

We often refer to political prognosticating it as “reading the tea leaves.” But tea leaves are no longer the best way to pick winners and losers. There are now so many more sophisticated ways to handicap the races, some of which we have been used for years and others that are brand new. The media is dominated by daily polling announcements, and if you give the polls any credence, they spell bad news for President Trump and the candidates of his party.

Poll after poll, whether from the left or the right, seem to indicate that this may be a very bad year for Republicans.

You know that things look bad for them when Fox News consistently announces polls showing that everyday Republicans and independents are slowly moving away from long-favored party candidates. In addition, wellknown commentators such as Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson are predicting only bad things for the party come November.

i’ve seen many waves, red and blue, which are part of the ups and downs of politics.

The newest form of political projections is occurring on such outlets as Kalshi and Polymarket. On Kalshi, people trade contracts on the outcome of real-world events. They are deep into gambling on sports events, but lately have also been involved in betting on political events. Polymarket is built on a crypto platform. People bet on “yes” and “no” shares that reflect the feelings of the bettors and their inkling to pick winners. Both platforms have become highly controversial. Demands are being made for them to be regulated by Congress, but that won’t happen soon.

If you want to find more reliable trends, pay attention to what’s going on in Washington and around the country. This year, more than 30 Republican

members of the House have announced that they won’t seek re-election. Some are campaigning for Senate seats and others are running for governor, but the vast majority of the retirees have announced that they’re eager to spend more time with their families, the age-old excuse to get out of Washington.

At last count, there were 35 House seats up for reelection that were tilting toward the Democrats. If the blue wave is really going to happen, most of those seats will go to the Democrats. In 2025 the party won major races in Virginia, New Jersey and New York. This year, a number of Democrats have had upset wins in races for state House seats in districts that Trump won in 2024 by wide margins. If these victories are any indication of the national trend, it’s all bad news for the Republicans.

Up to a few months ago, there was little or no talk about Democrats having any chance to take over the U.S. Senate, but the latest polls seem to show a tightening of the races in Maine, North Carolina, Texas and Ohio. If Democrats can

pull off any upsets in these key states, Jon Ossoff can hold on to his seat in Georgia and a newcomer can win in Michigan, the party’s chances of capturing the Senate will improve remarkably. One of the more disturbing factors for Republicans is the fact that Trump hasn’t made any strong statements about his desire to see his party stay in power. He is promoting various ideas about how they can win at the ballot box, but any federal effort to take the power to oversee voting away from the states will likely be struck down as unconstitutional.

Having reached an advanced age, I’ve seen many waves, both red and blue. They sometimes last two years, and occasionally continue for four years. The swings back and forth between parties are part of the ups and downs of politics. So if it turns out that the Democrats have a great year, they’d better handle their newfound power very carefully, because two years can pass very quickly.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.

Local News Day now means more than ever

Somewhere on Long Island tonight, a village board will vote on a zoning variance, a school district will finalize a budget or a contractor will win a bid. None of it will lead the network news or trend on social media. But it will matter — to the family whose street gets rezoned, to the teachers whose contract is on the line, to the taxpayers footing the bill.

In most cases, a Herald reporter will be in that room. But in too many communities across the country — and increasingly in our own backyard — that reporter’s chair sits empty. And when no one is watching, things have a way of going sideways.

April 9 is Local News Day, a national moment to recognize what local news does, why it matters, and what we lose when it disappears.

Local news isn’t the shouting matches on cable or the partisan warfare that passes for national political coverage. Local news is the Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Hewlett High School science fair. It’s the Nassau County budget hearing that will affect your property taxes for the next decade, the obituary that captures a neighbor’s life, and the investigation that stops a bad idea before it becomes law. At Richner Communications — publisher of the Long Island Herald — we’ve been doing this work since 1964. Sixty-two years, three generations, over 100 local employees, nearly 30 weekly newspapers.

The Founding Fathers understood the stakes. The free press is the only indus-

Your opinion Matters

try they considered important enough to protect by name in the Constitution. But we are failing that promise. Since 2004, one-third of all American newsrooms have closed. There are 43,000 fewer local reporters and editors working today than there were then. New York alone has lost nearly half its newspapers, and a quarter of the state’s counties now have one or no local news sources. Digital-only outlets have not filled the void.

Today, more than 2½ newspapers shutter in America each week. The consequences are documented and dire: Communities without local news see lower voter turnout, higher taxes and measurable increases in corruption, political polarization, and even toxic environmental emissions.

Wealth is no inoculation from this trend. The Scarsdale Inquirer was founded in 1901 and served one of the wealthiest communities in America for 123 years. It closed without warning in January 2024. The Westchester village — mirroring the demographics of many Long Island communities — still doesn’t have a newspaper over two years later.

Compounding this problem is the rise of artificial intelligence, which can now manufacture articles, quotes, and entire “news sites” that look authoritative and cost almost nothing to create. That means the news environment has only grown harder to navigate. Trusted news brands, with reporters who actually live and work in the communities they cover, are more important than ever. It’s the reason that we at the Herald use A.I. as a tool to support, not replace, the report-

ers you know and respect.

And yet the climate for news in America has rarely been more hostile than today. The United States now ranks 57th in the world in press freedom — labeled “problematic” by Reporters Without Borders, placing us alongside countries we’re accustomed to lecturing about democratic norms. Arrests of reporters and editors in America nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024. A national shield law for reporters has failed to pass Congress twice. Right now, the Pentagon is aggressively curtailing press access, a policy that flies in the face of a functioning democracy. The temperature in Washington sets a tone, and that tone travels — all the way to the reporters covering Long Island’s myriad municipal entities.

The Herald has always believed that local news is worth fighting for. It’s why we helped found the Empire State Local News Coalition, which won a first-of-itskind state tax credit for local newspapers. That legislation is already helping newspapers survive that might otherwise have gone dark, meaning that thousands of New Yorkers who might otherwise have lost their only trusted local news source still have one.

Every community gets the local news it deserves — which is to say, the local news it supports. If you want a paper that shows up, you have to show up for it. On Local News Day, make that decision. Subscribe. Advertise. Tell your neighbors. The Herald has been here for over a century. Whether we’re here for the next one is, in no small part, up to you.

opinions Washington must start solving problems

The American people are fed up.

The chaos at our airports was awful, the Department of Homeland Security has not been fully funded during these very dangerous times, and the people are demanding that Immigration and Customs Enforcement live up to the standards of all other federal law enforcement agencies. They are sick and tired of the endless blame game. All across America, people are demanding that politicians put partisanship aside and work together to fix the very real problems we face.

The anger and annoyance are real. And frankly, I agree.

That’s why I’ve introduced bipartisan legislation to immediately reopen DHS while advancing common-sense reforms to ICE. Alongside my Problem Solvers Caucus co-chair, Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, who served as an FBI agent for more than 15 years, I am trying to cut through the dysfunction, isolate the problem areas where negotiations have stalled and work together to actually get something done.

Our solution is common sense: fund the parts of the DHS where there are no disagreements, like disaster response and cybersecurity, and institute real reforms to ICE that most Americans have been hungering for. It only makes sense to hold ICE, a federal law-enforcement agency, to the same safety and accountability standards of every other bureau in the nation.

Calling us

Democrats have been saying for weeks that they will fund the $87 billion that doesn’t go to ICE right now. That would have ended the airport disaster, paid our TSA agents far earlier and kept the core functions of DHS operating. We would not vote to fund the other $10 billion for ICE, however, until there were real reforms.

‘Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats’ doesn’t help.

That means body-camera and officer-identification requirements, higher training standards, a crackdown on roving patrols and limitations on agents wearing masks. The legislation would also lay out stronger warrant requirements and rules governing activity in sensitive locations to ensure that enforcement resources are focused on the “worst of the worst.”

It seems simple, but Congress has been in a political standoff that perfectly exemplifies what’s wrong with Washington. Let me explain.

The budget for the DHS is $97 billion. $87 billion of that funds everything from the TSA agents at our airports to Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster responses, cybersecurity units and the Coast Guard. The remaining $10 billion funds ICE.

Framework by Tim Baker

While Republicans resisted at first, there was eventually enough consensus among both Democratic and Republican members of Congress to at least reopen the non-ICE agencies of DHS. But just as bipartisan negotiations in the Senate were making progress, President Trump intervened with a directive to his party: “No deals with the Democrats.”

To be precise, he outlawed deals with the “Crazy, Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats.”

That’s outrageous. Once again, that’s politics getting in the way of progress. Finger-pointing has been all too prevalent.

I have built my career on finding common ground for the common good. It has always been my philosophy that I’ll work with anyone, regardless of political party, to get things done for my constituents. As co-chair of the biparti-

san Problem Solvers Caucus, I’ve worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to tackle the nation’s toughest issues. Just a few months ago we passed legislation out of the House that extended health care tax credits to prevent skyrocketing premiums for millions. Unfortunately, then as now, the president got in the way, changing the debate from bipartisan health care wins to Venezuela and Greenland before the Senate could close the deal.

I represent a district that voted for Trump and for me. My constituents aren’t interested in partisan talking points — they want results. They want safe airports, secure borders, a functioning government and a lower cost of living. And they want their elected officials to work together to deliver.

People are concerned that the Department of Homeland Security has not been in the game. They’re outraged about the illegal and immoral behavior of ICE. And they’re frustrated that politicians are too busy pointing fingers to solve our problems.

We don’t have to choose between security and accountability. We can do both. We don’t have to accept dysfunction in Washington. And we certainly don’t have to tolerate political games when real people are being affected.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.