East Meadow Herald 11-13-2025

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Honoring those who served

Veterans, Nassau County leadership and community members gathered at Eisenhower Park’s memorial on Nov. 9 for a moving ceremony, honoring those who have served the United States. Organizations spoke about their ongoing efforts to help veterans around Nassau County, through a variety of operations. Above, Bill Newman of North Bellmore, Jack Holzman of North Bellmore and Dan Palestino of Stewart Manor, all veterans, attended the ceremony. Right, Jim Sarosy, a veteran from Franklin Square, observed names on the memorial. Story, more photos, Page 10.

E.M. students turn out for Civics Summit

By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com

World War II is one of the most important chapters in American history. Though the battles ended long ago, many people on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean are working to preserve the personal stories that came out of the conflict and pass that wisdom on to the next generation.

Students from East Meadow High School came to Nassau Community College on Oct. 24 to hear from the descendants and successors of World War II’s American and French heroes. This civics summit brought in high school students from over 20 different districts in Nassau County, mixing lessons about the right to vote with the history of those who fought to protect it.

young people’s bond with history and commitment to freedom, democracy, and ethical leadership.

“This honored the significance and symbolism of the American flag and instilled this sense of patriotism and civic responsibility in our students,” he said.

I found a purpose.

ANDgIE DEMoNCy Vice President, Amis des Veterans Americains

Last May, East Meadow’s first ceremony had the U.S. military veterans of East Meadow American Legion Post 1082 give each of the 660 graduating seniors a folded American flag.

Cathy Soref is Operation Democracy’s President Emeritus. During her presentation to the students, she described what motivated soldiers to fight on behalf of the oppressed in World War II, and what lesson should be taken away for today.

Assistant Superintendent Dave Spinnato led a presentation describing the new Flags for Freedom initiative, a program made possible in partnership with Operation Democracy. The Locust Valley nonprofit’s mission is to strengthen

“Along with our rights go responsibility, and civics teaches us the reason for this,” Soref said, “and deeper is ethics, and ethics is our moral responsibility to do what we know is right.”

Operation Democracy is a Continued on page 9

East Meadow Chamber honors Maureen Pye

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce hosted its 40th annual Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast on Oct. 31 at the Crest Hollow Country Club, celebrating honorees from nearly 40 local chambers across the county.

Formed in 1979, the council began as an informal gathering of chamber leaders from communities including Great Neck, Hicksville, Merrick, Hempstead, Baldwin, Westbury, Long Beach, Levittown, Freeport, Garden City, Franklin Square, East Meadow, Massapequa and Rockville Centre, along with the Spanish Chamber of Commerce of Long Island. The group met to discuss shared concerns in the local business community, from legislative issues to parking, special events and membership growth.

What began as a non-structured advisory forum soon developed into an organized body that now serves as a countywide resource for advocacy, leadership and support for Nassau’s chambers of commerce. Today, the council continues to promote economic growth, business stability and its “shop local” initiative, working as a unified voice for small businesses across the region.

This year’s breakfast program began at 8:15 a.m., following early-morning photos with honorees. The event featured the national anthem performed by Nassau County Legislator-elect Kayla Knight, and a keynote address by Laura Bonelli, president of LifeVac, a Nesconset-based company known for its life-saving choking-rescue device. Island Harvest Food Bank was named the breakfast’s charity partner, with president and chief executive Randi Shubin-Dresner offering updates on the organization’s ongoing hunger-relief

efforts.

In a letter to attendees, NCCC president Frank Camarano Jr. thanked the event’s sponsors, partner organizations, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for continued support of chamber-based small business initiatives, including the Nassau County Small Business Support & Training Center at Nassau Community College.

The East Meadow Chamber of Commerce recognized Maureen Pye, an area director for JAG Physical Therapy, as its 2025 Businessperson of the Year at the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce annual breakfast on Oct. 31.

Pye, a licensed physical therapist with more than 14 years of experience, oversees multiple JAG clinic locations, where she manages operations, supports staff development and works to ensure that patients receive high-quality, compassionate care. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to helping patients recover from injury, restore mobility and maintain long-term wellness.

Beyond her professional work, Pye serves as the chamber’s second vice president, taking an active role in planning and supporting community events that connect residents and local businesses. Her involvement reflects her belief in service, collaboration and strengthening the East Meadow business community.

Chamber officials said Pye was selected for her professional leadership, her dedication to patient care, and her continued commitment to giving back to East Meadow.

Maureen Pye, physical therapist and community leader, was honored at the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce breakfast on Oct. 31.

American Legion remembers Daniel Bliss

His kindness, willingness to help others, left an impression on the East Meadow community

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

For members of American Legion Post No. 1082, Daniel Bliss stood as a testament to the difference one person can make in a short amount of time.

AAn active part of the East Meadow American Legion Riders — the motorcycle division of the veterans service organization — Bliss died on Oct. 26, 2025, in a tragic accident after being struck by a vehicle on North Jerusalem Road. The driver, identified as Patrick Thompson of Levittown, was arrested and accused of driving under the influence. Bliss, of North Bellmore, was pronounced at the scene. He was 63.

nytime there were things that needed to be done around the post, he was there.

MARk PAPAgNi Commander, Sons of the American Legion, Post No. 1082

Mark Papagni, commander of the Sons of the American Legion in East Meadow, told the Herald that Bliss joined the organization in May.

“He came over and immediately started helping out around the post after he got his membership,” Papagni said. “He was just a good person.”

Bliss was not a veteran himself, but gained membership through his father, Papagni explained. The American Legion Riders division of East Meadow’s post was recently formed, and Bliss was part of the inaugural group.

A plumber, Papagni said Bliss was planning to help make refurbishments around Post No. 1082’s headquarters on Bellmore Road.

“He only came to us in May,” Papagni said, “but he made a big impact immediately. Anytime there were things that needed to be done around the post, he was there. By trade, he was a plumber — he was ready to pitch in.”

Papagni’s term as commander expires in June, and he had considered Bliss to be part of the group of members that would lead the organization forward.

“I just expected him to be around,” Papagni said.

Bliss was honored at a ceremony at Post No. 1082 on the Tuesday following his death, and at a memorial service at the Jewish Memorial Chapels in Levittown on Nov. 1. An obituary, shared online, said that Bliss was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Ila, and survived by his fiancée, Raquel Osteikoetxea, his sister, Donna Bliss and her husband, Mickey Dosse, his nephews Nicholas and Justin, and nieces Arianna and Samantha, along with many other family members and friends. Bliss also had a dog, Bella — a faithful companion who

memorial service on Nov.

Daniel Bliss, a member of the American Legion Riders in East Meadow, died on Oct. 26 in a tragic accident. A North Bellmore resident, he was 63.

provided him joy and comfort.

His passion for motorcycles was more than just a hobby, the obituary shared — it was a way of life. He found true freedom on the road, it added, especially when riding with his American Legion brothers. His dedication to the American Legion’s mission was unwavering, and he will be remembered as someone who was always ready to step up for veterans.

“Those who knew Danny will remember him for the words that best described him: kind, generous, and handy,” the obituary on Jewish Memorial Chapels’ website said. “He left a lasting impression on everyone he met, and his legacy of service and friendship will continue to inspire. Danny’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, and his memory will be a beacon of light for all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Bliss is remembered as an exceedingly kind person, always ready to help those around him. His family members, fiancée Raquel Osteikoetxea,

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EAST MEADOW FIRE DEPARTMENT

The EMFD is reminding the community how to stay safe this fall and winter, and urges residents to have carbon monoxide detectors and to know the signs of exposure.

East Meadow F.D. warns of carbon monoxide exposure

Planning For and Executing Inheritances

(Part Two)

Early on, we learned the estate planning phrase “There’s nothing so unequal as the equal treatment of unequals.” Who has children that are all the same?

Some children have received significant help from parents during their lifetimes while others haven’t. Many parents choose the “forgiveness provision” to address this situation at death, to either “equalize” any gifts made to some children during lifetime with those who did not or, in the alternative, to “forgive” any loans made to children and then make a gift in like amount to each of the other children by inheritance, before the estate is divvied up in equal shares. Conversely, lifetime gifts may also be ignored. Next up is the problem of children who are partially or wholly estranged. Many clients wish to leave them a token amount but there are pitfalls to consider. One who is left considerably less than their siblings will often be angry and upset. They may demand that their siblings disclose what they received and even to pony up an equal share. Not only that, but the burden of telling that estranged child

they are getting less and delivering the paltry amount is left to the children who you wish to favor!

In our view, it is sometimes better to leave an estranged child out altogether than to stir up all the issues surrounding an inheritance much smaller than equal.

There are many valid reasons, however, to treat children differently. Some may have alcohol or substance abuse issues, learning disabilities or special needs, they may be immature and irresponsible, poor at handling money or a “soft touch” and, finally, they may have a spouse that dominates them and you do not want to see that controlling spouse get your money.

Sometimes parents leave more to the “needy” child, the old adage being that “the tongue always turns to the aching tooth”. If so, other children’s feelings may need to addressed. A letter to be opened after your death, explaining what you did and why, may go a long way towards soothing hurt feelings and avoiding misunderstandings, what we term the “emotional legacy”.

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By JOHN J. O’BRIEN SR. Correspondent

As temperatures drop and heating systems start running, the East Meadow Fire Department is reminding residents to take precautions against carbon monoxide — an odorless, colorless gas known as the “silent killer.”

Each year, more than 170 Americans die and thousands are hospitalized from carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The East Meadow Fire Department responds to numerous carbon monoxide alarm calls annually — many false, but some lifesaving.

Fire officials warn that heating systems not properly serviced before winter, blocked chimneys, or running fuelpowered engines indoors can all lead to deadly gas buildup.

Carbon monoxide binds with the blood’s hemoglobin, replacing oxygen and causing symptoms such as head -

aches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Higher concentrations can lead to unconsciousness or death.

To stay safe, residents are urged to: Have heating systems inspected annually; clean and cap chimney flues; to never run fuel-powered motors, like cars or generators, inside a garage or near windows; and to install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, especially near sleeping areas.

Firefighters are trained and equipped to locate and eliminate carbon monoxide sources using specialized detection equipment and protective gear.

The department also reminds homeowners to check their detector’s expiration date. Older models last only three to five years, while newer versions can last up to 10 years. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, including Wi-Fi-enabled models, can provide wider coverage.

Residents with questions can contact the Office of the Chiefs at (516) 542-0580.

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Isles awarded 2027 NHL All-Star Weekend

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The next National Hockey League All-Star Game will be played at UBS Arena in Elmont.

For only the second time in franchise history, the New York Islanders will host the NHL’s All-Star game. The league announced Oct. 24 UBS Arena will be the site of the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend. The event is scheduled for Feb. 5, 6 and 7, and the weekend’s festivities will be broadcast by ESPN and ABC. Additional information on the midseason showcase, including ticketing and broadcast information, will be announced when available.

Islanders season ticket members will receive priority access to the event.

“We have been looking forward to UBS Arena playing host to one of our major League events since before construction of this wonderful arena began,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “We have every confidence that the Islanders organization, led by Scott Malkin and Jon Ledecky, will deliver a celebration that will make the greater New York region and the NHL proud.”

The Islanders had originally been awarded the 2026 All-Star Weekend, but that was cancelled this past spring when the league decided not to hold the game

Tim Baker/Herald

UBS Arena in Elmont will host the NHL All-Star Weekend Feb. 5-7, 2027, the league announced Oct. 24.

in the same year as the Winter Olympic Games taking place in Milan, Italy. The idea then became to turn the weekend into a pre-Olympics event, but the NHL decided to nix that as well to allow players to focus on travel and preparation for the Olympics.

It is now expected each NHL Club will organize an Olympic Winter Games send-off for its respective players traveling to Italy, with more details to be announced in the near future.

Islanders forward Mathew Barzal, who has appeared in the NHL All-Star

Game three times (2019, 2020 and 2024) and in 2020 won the fastest skater competition, is excited about the event coming to Elmont.

“It’s exciting that the All-Star Game is coming to Long Island,” Barzal said. “UBS Arena is one of the best buildings in the league so it will be great to show off the dressing room and the amenities we have as players. It’s going to be great for our fans to see the best of the best take the ice on the island.”

Fans can sign up to receive news and updates on the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend by going to nhl.com/events/ all-star/nhl-all-star-weekend.

The NHL experienced a new wave of interest last winter when the traditional All-Star Game was replaced by the 4 Nations Face-Off, a four-team tournament contested by winners Canada, the United States, Sweden and Finland.

The 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend will mark just the second time the Islanders will host NHL All-Star activities, with the first being the 1983 edition, featuring the Campbell Conference AllStars defeating the Wales Conference All-Stars 9-3, and Wayne Gretzky claiming NHL All-Star MVP honors at Nassau Coliseum with a then-record four goals. It’ll also mark the first All-Star Game in the state of New York since 1994, when the New York Rangers hosted it at Madison Square Garden.

LIPA chief discusses L.I.’s energy future

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

At the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5, Carrie Meek Gallagher, the new CEO of the Long Island Power Authority, spoke about the future of energy on Long Island.

“Energy is very significant to our economy, our businesses and just our way of life here on Long Island,” Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO, said. LIA is a nonprofit association that works to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality.

Gallagher, who took over at LIPA from John Rhodes in June, spoke with dozens of energy experts and local business owners about her priorities for the public authority, which owns the electric transmission and distribution system serving Long Island and the Rockaway peninsula. She has over 25 years of experience working in energy and sustainability in the public sector, having directed the Long Island office of the state Department of Public Service, and been the acting deputy secretary to the governor for energy and environment, and the regional director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

“Everyone here is committed to making sure that Long Island’s energy need are met in a clean, efficient and safe way,” Pat Guidice, business manger of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1049, said. “I can’t tell you how happy we at IBEW-1049 are that Carrie is now at the helm of LIPA, ensuring we have clean and efficient energy that will be provided to Long Island.”

“Carrie’s commitment to the people of Long Island is second to none,” Guidice added.

Madison Gusler/Herald Long Island Power Authority’s new CEO, Carrie Meek Gallagher, spoke at the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5.

Gallagher said that her priorities are to ensure that there is a clean, reliable and affordable power supply, and to strengthen LIPA’s partnership with PSEG Long Island, which provides electrical service to customers.

“We need power — we need energy to run our economy,” she said. “We know affordability is really critical right now, so that’s something we’re continuing to

focus on.”

Entering contract negotiations with local and outof-state energy providers over the next three years, Gallagher said she is focused on cutting costs without impacting performance. She has also continued outreach about LIPA’s Time-of-Day program, which allows customers to choose when they use electricity, at varying rates.

Gallagher assured attendees that LIPA is prepared for days of high-energy demand. “We have enough capacity on any given day to meet even our peak demands,” she said.

Clean energy — which, she said, Long Island is very committed to — helps relieve the grid in times of high demand. South Fork Wind, she said, has been providing LIPA with power for over a year. She said that Long Island leads the state in solar installations, with nearly 100,000 customers and businesses receiving solar energy. While federal tax incentives for solar power will expire at the end of the year, Gallagher said that LIPA is working with state and local partners to create an alternative option for residents looking to go solar.

“Solar works here,” she said. “We know Long Islanders are willing to adopt it, and we want to continue that momentum, as it really does make a difference.”

According to the state Department of Public Service’s 2024 Electric Reliability Performance Report, Gallagher said, LIPA has outperformed all other overhead electric utilities in New York for five years. This shows that the agency has consistently provided energy to Long Islanders, and, she added, it continues to invest in ensuring that it can provide reliable and affordable service in the future.

Event offers a closer look at World War II heroes

program that builds from the historical connection between Long Island and Normandy.

“In 2005, I rediscovered a forgotten history between my hometown of Locust Valley and the first town liberated during the invasion of Normandy: Sainte-Mère-Église,” Soref said.

The link came in the form of one Lieutenant Colonel Augustin Hart Jr., a member of the 82nd Airborne Division, who selected the French town to be among the first freed during the invasion of Normandy. This town is the burial site for thousands of American soldiers.

To this day, Operation Democracy’s sister city in France is Sainte-MèreÉglise. From France came the mayor of Normandy, Jean Quetier, in addition to another guest.

On the cover of Le Monde Illustre magazine’s August 23, 1947 edition, a young French boy named Maurice Renaud places a handful flowers on the white-crossed grave of Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. who died retaking Normandy. In the years following, his mother Simone — commonly known as “The Mother of Normandy” — made a great effort to tend the 13,000 graves of soldiers who gave their lives to protect her and her family.

His mother connected with families in America who could not afford to visit France, offering them what consolation

she could: “She made a picture of each grave and sent them flowers,” he said.

“With my brother, we were going with my mother all the time to put flowers on the graves.”

dents about the story of Normandy and what it meant to the people who lived there. This opportunity was made possible by Andgie Demoncy, vice president of Amis des Veterans Americains, a project of Operation Democracy.

“I’ve learned about Normandy when I was pretty young… I’ve always had that gratitude for the American people,” Demoncy said. “I found a purpose of what I wanted to do when I joined that charity.”

Hellen Patton, the granddaughter of the iconic General George Patton, was a keynote speaker for the event.

Patton’s stories about her grandfather pulled the veil back on the myths surrounding the man, exploring his upbringing, philosophy and character quirks that made him who he was. Underneath the image of a stern soldier was a man with a short temper, superstitions about his ancestry, and an overwhelming sense of independence — for all his flaws, he still achieved great things, including the timely rescue of hundreds of soldiers of his own initiative.

Nowadays, Renaud’s hair has gone as white as his suit, but the enthusiasm he has for the bond between France and the United States has not lessened.

The two French men spoke with stu-

“What I wanted to communicate today, more than anything, is that if we see ourselves in a role, destiny will derail you and quickly put you in the right direction,” Patton said.

To learn more about Operation Democracy, visit OperationDemocracy. org.

Nassau County honors those who served

By DANIEL OFFNER

Special to the Herald

In recognition of the thousands of men and women across Long Island who served or are actively serving in the United States Armed Forces, members of the Nassau County community gathered in front of the memorial at Eisenhower Park on Nov. 9 to honor local veterans for their courage and sacrifice.

The Veterans Day ceremony, led by the United Veterans Organization of Nassau County, celebrated the respect, resilience, and dedication of servicemen and women, while emphasizing the importance of veteran agencies that support those returning from active duty.

Morris Miller, past president and board member of the United Veterans Organization, served as master of ceremonies.

“As long as we are alive, we will never ever forget about our brothers,” Miller said. “They may not be with us physically, but they’re with us right here in our hearts.”

Eric Spinner, UVO chaplain and senior vice commander of Jewish War Veterans Post 652, led the convocation, offering a solemn prayer for all who have served.

“As we gather this Veterans Day in memory of all who have served and those who continue to serve,” Spinner said, “bless and protect our nation. Be merciful to our honored dead, whose valor, courage, and heroism inspire us to noble action and eternal vigilance in preserving our priceless liberty and our inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Spinner also led a poignant POW/ MIA remembrance ceremony honoring those who never returned home, explaining the symbolism of each item on the small table set in their honor.

“As you enter the ceremony area today, you may have noticed a small table in a place of honor,” he said. “It is set for one, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his or her suppressors.”

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman thanked the veterans in attendance for their service and reflected on his family’s long history of military involvement.

“Today sometimes gets confused with Memorial Day,” Blakeman said. “Memorial Day is a sacred day. Not a holiday, but a day to remember those who died in the line of duty. Today is more of a celebration of the brave men and women who joined our armed forces to protect our freedom.”

Blakeman shared that both of his parents served during World War II, his son completed a five-year tour with the U.S. Marine Corps, and his nephew, who died on Sept. 11, 2001, was an U.S. Army veteran.

“Today, I am honored to be in your presence, to be your county executive, and to celebrate all of those brave and courageous men and women who served in the armed forces of the United States of America,” Blakeman said. “May God

bless you all, may God bless them, and may God bless America.”

Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips commended veterans’ advocates for their tireless work.

“What they do isn’t fancy,” Phillips said. “It doesn’t get the limelight, but there is no one that works harder for our veterans than Ralph Esposito.”

She added that what makes Nassau County so special are the roughly 45,000 veterans who live here.

“In Nassau County, we will never forget. We will never stop honoring. We will never stop fighting for democracy,” Phillips said.

Ralph Esposito, director of the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency, spoke about ongoing initiatives to support local veterans, including food drives and plans for a new housing project in Island Park.

During the ceremony, he personally thanked Blakeman for recently signing over the deed to the former Long Beach Motor Inn site on Austin Boulevard to

the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

The charitable nonprofit, founded in honor of New York City firefighter Steven Siller — who died on Sept. 11, 2001 — has committed to building 57 units of veteran housing on the site.

The Veterans Village will feature private bathrooms and kitchens in each unit, 24/7 on-site staff and clinicians, and services ranging from job training and entitlement advocacy to behavioral health care funded and operated by the foundation.

“You don’t know how important that is, especially on Veterans Week,” Esposito said. “This means a lot. Our veterans suffer every day, but we’re out there to help. We’re always there for you, and we always will be, as long as I have breath in me.”

The ceremony concluded with recognition of veterans from every branch of service, including those who fought in World War II and Korea, followed by a final salute from the Joint Armed Forces firing detail.

“As long as there are veterans among us, we will stand together to honor them,” Miller said. “Because remembering their sacrifice is how we keep their spirit alive.”

elevate the Conversation

It’s (maybe) Sunny at Abbot

Iam feeling, perhaps more than usual, my generational differences when it comes to entertainment and media. In a world where I often suffer from FOMO, I am trying to be deliberate when watching, reading, streaming and surfing to understand the objective, the purpose of the art. But lately it has become more demanding.

Case in point: “It’s always Sunny in Philadelphia”. This sitcom show has been running for 27 seasons and although I knew it existed, it didn’t come on my radar until they did a crossover with “Abbott Elementary.”

Reading over some web searches, “Sunny” can be described as a show that features the trials and tribulations of five “self-absorbed” friends who are tending to a failing pub in Philadelphia. I hadn’t watched it, until now.

characters perspective (episode two), I knew I was too literal to watch for the subtleties and symbols that have amused Sunny’s viewers since the 1990s.

I just don’t fully get the “they really mess up even worse than me and I can laugh at it” humor when the messing up is extreme and sociopathic. (Is there such a word? Yes, it’s an adjective that really describes Sunny’s genre to a T.)

“Abbott”, a sitcom I have watched, is set in an underfunded Philadelphia public school with an ensemble cast portraying teachers trying to make a difference in their children (and their own) lives.

I have no relationship with bar ownership and have never taught in elementary school, so for those who have, the realism of these shows is seen in the eyes of the beholder. But when I saw the two come together for two episodes: “Sunny’s” characters doing community service at Abbott from both a viewer’s perspective (episode one) and from the

Abbott is more direct, more family friendly, focused on the way the characters navigate from one problem to its solution. It’s sometimes corny but often hopeful. So although it wasn’t meant to be a TV review, I will acknowledge that these shows have their audiences and their concept. For the mash up, I admit I laughed at some moments and cringed at others.

Think of it this way, if these shows were candy, “Abbott” would be sweet, “Sunny” extra sour. But too much of either to drive a crossover (given no other commonality except that all the characters reside in Philly) contain the ingredients for a guaranteed stomach ache.

A contributing writer to the Herald since 2012, Lauren Lev is a direct marketing/ advertising executive who teaches marketing fundamentals as well as advertising and marketing communications courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology and SUNY Old Westbury.

News brIef

State Sen. Steve Rhoads attended the POW-MIA Remembrance Ceremony in Eisenhower Park, honoring America’s missing and captured service members.

POW-MIA ceremony held in Eisenhower Park

State Sen. Steve Rhoads attended the Nassau County POW-MIA Remembrance Ceremony at Eisenhower Park, joining veterans, families and community members in honoring America’s missing and captured service members. The ceremony paid tribute to those who endured captivity or remain unac-

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

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One entry per student

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

Friday, November 14, 2025

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

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counted for, highlighting their courage, sacrifice and resilience. Rhoads reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that their service is never forgotten and that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

–Jordan Vallone

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

• Be creative & original.

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STEPPING OUT

Gaelic Storm

‘Jump’ right in with Mickey and his pals

By Karen Bloom

Before we get ready for the big feast, take some time with your family to feast on some Disney magic. The holiday season lights up, once again, as the latest Disney On Ice tour skates into UBS Arena with “Jump In!,” now through Nov. 16.

As always, Mickey and the gang start audiences off on some wild adventures from the moment everyone settles in their seats. It’s a jumpin’ and jivin’ ride that begins with a touch of Mickey’s Magical Mouse Pad. Yeah, that’s right, even Mickey has embraced technology with his special version of an iPad!

Truly an outsized spectacle, over 50 characters gather in this —all-new — extravagant showcase of some of Disney’s most beloved tales. Disneyphiles will jump for joy when new characters from “Moana 2” and Anxiety, the newly-introduced emotion in the “Inside Out 2” sequel, appear on ice. Anxiety is, of course, joined by the other characters we all know so well: Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger, and Fear.

Everyone can navigate those thrilling high seas with Moana and feel all the feels in the vibrant world of “Inside Out 2” when these beloved films come to life on ice for the first time. And, naturally, there’s so much more.

Help Stitch fix a glitch as mayhem ensues across the ice, stroll the bustling metropolis of “Zootopia,” glide through the icy realms of “Frozen,” marvel at the playful“Toy Story” universe and travel to the vibrant world of Colombia with the Madrigal family in “Encanto.” Plus, everyone is always in awe when Ariel, Jasmine, Rapunzel, and Tiana arrive in a dazzling parade of Disney princesses.

These unforgettable characters and their adventures are fully alive as families are transported to world where imaginations soar — and in true Disney spirit “anything can happen if you just believe.”

And that’s how it is for Andrew Austin. The Chicago, Ill.-based skater, who joined the Disney On Ice ensemble in 2022, after concluding his competitive skating career — is certainly living his dream.

He, naturally, has been a Disney fan since childhood (a prerequisite of sorts for skaters in the show). His first experience with Disney on Ice came around age 6, Austin recalls.

“I’ve always loved Disney, especially ‘The Lion King’ and ‘The Little Mermaid.’ A truly poignant memory for me is when my godmother took me [to the show]. I

• Now through Sunday. Nov. 16; times vary

• Tickets start at $40; available at ticketmaster.com or disneyonice.com

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

have such a fond memory of being there with her.”

That memory has since become reality for Austin, who first laced up skates as 6-year-old.

“I soon realized I had a talent for skating and wanted to see how far I could push myself,” he says.”

At 23, Austin decided it was time, as he put it, “to make a new start and begin a new chapter.”

Disney beckoned and he never looked back.

“It’s all magical,” Austin says enthusiastically.

That word again. The Mouse House goes big on the magic — and the magic brings everyone together.

“It’s really about family togetherness and learning the magic of family so it’s a great time for all ages,” Austin says.

Like always, the skating brings a new dimension to the stories we know so well. You’ll see exciting visuals, thrilling stunts and mesmerizing choreography that fully immerse those both on ice and in their seats. The solos, pairs and fast-paced ensemble skating, along with acrobatic routines, keep everyone transfixed to the action unfolding.

“We’ve worked so hard to get to this point, the skating is truly top notch,” Austin adds.

Expect to see acrobatic stunts throughout the show. High-flying performers elevate skating to the next level, with gravity-defying aerial stunts.

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes Gaelic Storm a true anomaly. The multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. fans of every genre are attracted to their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. This dedication to their live show dates all the way back to the mid-1990s, when the band kicked off their career as a pub band in Santa Monica, Calif. Those performances ultimately led to their discovery that found the band appearing in the blockbuster film “Titanic” (where they performed “Irish Party in Third Class”), laying the groundwork for what would come, all while gaining a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band whose songs mix Celtic traditions with something uniquely creative.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. $68, $58, $48. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Princess Ariel soars above the ice to “Kiss the Girl,” and Rapunzel’s golden hair is brought to life by flowing aerial silks in a dazzling aerial routine with Flynn Rider.

Throughout it all, you’ll be singing along — no matter your age. Disney’s timeless catalog, including “Let It Go” (Frozen), “Try Everything”(Zootopia), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto), “Get Lost” (Moana 2), and many more favorites, are all part of the exciting soundtrack.

Excitement is certainly a descriptive of the entire spectacle.

“It’s really special and exciting for the cast to see all those smiling faces. We’re so happy to see the how the kids connect with the characters ... I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” he continues.

A final word from Austin: “This really is about family togetherness and learning the magic of family, so it’s a great time for all ages. You’ll see how the magic comes from within.”

Matt Friend

Matt Friend has been described as “a gift to comedy.” If you’re not familiar with him yet, now’s the time to find out what he’s all about. Truly an old soul in the body of a 26-year-old, the comedian-actor-impressionist — a 2020 graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School — discovered a love for comedy at the tender age of four after watching Austin Powers and mimicking the characters’ voices. His passion has since propelled him to great heights, amassing over 1 million followers on social platforms. Known for his impressive repertoire of over 250 impressions, from Rami Malek to Timothee Chalamet, he’s a beloved comedic figure on social media, stages and red carpets worldwide. Mattcontinues to captivate audiences with his stand-up shows across the U.S. and abroad. Impressions aside, Matt is a true intellect — wise beyond his years — a student of show business, comedy, politics, and culture.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

NOV

‘Once Upon A Song!’

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance. In this spirited show books in a library are brought to life in song and dance. A cast of 40 keeps the action moving along, with a live band and and a special appearance by Steve Mitchell as Elvis. The singers and dancers perform current hits, oldies and tunes from the Broadway stage, with a tribute to Woodstock and “Wicked.” With refreshments and post-show dancing until 1 A.M. Seating is night-club style at round tables. $30 per person, available in advance or at the door. Refreshments provided; guests can bring in your own food (just no pork or shellfish).

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

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

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

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” With special opening weekend activities.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

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

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

Collage workshop

Join Nassau County Museum of Art’s first Artist in Residence, John Grande, on a creative journey through personal expression and visual storytelling. Compose your own collage while exploring a variety of tools and techniques used by professional collage and mixed media artists including a range of cutting instruments and adhesive methods. Each participant will have their pick from a variety of vintage, printed and colorful papers, fabric and trim samples, post cards, magazine clippings, books, and other collaging materials. $50, $45 members. For ages 16+.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive,

BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

NOV

generations have reimagined “the real” in strikingly different ways. Works from both American and European artists are featured, including portraits by such noteworthy Realists as John Currin and Fairfield Porter; rare tapestries and works on paper by Surrealist masters Salvador Dalí and Man Ray; and more. Opens Nov. 22, on view through March 8.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

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

Girls on the Run

NOV

5K

23

Girls on the Run Long Island wraps its fall season with a fun-filled 5K in Eisenhower Park.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

• Time: 9 a.m.

• Contact: GOTRLongIsland.org/5K

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

For 50 years, two-time Grammy winner BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet has been hailed as the best Cajun band in the world. The band has been making some of the most potent and popular Cajun music on the planet. Born out of the rich Acadian ancestry of its members, and created and driven by bandleader Michael Doucets spellbinding fiddle playing and soulful vocals, BeauSoleil is notorious for bringing even the most staid audience to its feet. Their distinctive sound derives from the distilled spirits of New Orleans jazz, blues rock, folk, swamp pop, Zydeco, country and bluegrass, captivating listeners from the Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans, to Carnegie Hall, then all the way across the pond to Richard Thompsons Meltdown Festival in England. They are joined on this special tour by their good friend Richard Thompson. An iconic figure in British folk-rock, Thompson is arguably the genre’s greatest triple threat: a dazzling guitarist, an outstanding songwriter, and a strong and evocative vocalist. As one of the founding members of the group Fairport Convention, Thompson would have a seismic impact on both U.K. folk and rock, incorporating elements of traditional music (most effectively on 1969’s Liege and Lief) in a way that sparked a new interest in authentic British folk. He left the group by age 21, which was followed by a decade long musical partnership with his then-wife Linda, to over 30 years as a highly successful solo artist. A wide range of musicians have recorded Thompson’s songs including Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, R.E.M., Sleater-Kinney, Del McCoury, Bonnie Raitt, Tom Jones, David Byrne, Don Henley, Los Lobos, and many more. Thompson wavered between acoustic projects (2005’s Front Parlour Ballads) and more robust full-band efforts (2013’s Electric), but despite his status as an elder statesman of the singer/ songwriter community, he remained active and engaged as a writer and musician, releasing the powerful 13 Rivers in 2018, when he was 69-years-old. $75, $65, $55.

Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Noon-3 p.m.

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

LuminoCity Festival

LuminoCity is back at Eisenhower Park. Walk through a winter wonderland. Timed admission fee.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

• Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m., 6-6:45 p.m., 7:30-8:15 p.m., through Jan. 1

• Contact: luminocityfestival.com

NOV

20

Champagne & Chopin

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

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

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

Playful Puzzles

NOV

22

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

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

Native American Fall Festival

Join in the popular annual holiday event that honors the spirit and traditions of Long Island’s early residents at Garvies Point Museum and Preserve. Varied activities include tool and pottery-making, spear-throwing and the use of the atlatl (a spear-throwing tool), primitive fire building (without matches!) and on-site campfire

cooking. Sample some authentic native foods and learn about the process of creating “dugout” canoes. Also see displays of artifacts from the museum collection and an authentic reproduction of a wigwam, scavenger hunt, and more.

• Where: 50 Barry Drive, Glen Cove

• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; also Nov. 23

• Contact: garviespointmuseum. com or (516) 571-8010 or (516) 571-8011

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s invites visitors into a world where reality is uncertain, dreams take shape and the line between fact and imagination disappears. From dreamlike landscapes and uncanny portraits to images so exact they look like photographs, works in “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” challenge what we see and what we believe. Before abstraction took the spotlight in the mid20th century, American art was defined by Realism — artists captured the world as they saw it. Often overlooked in conventional approaches to aesthetic progress, it has center stage in this exhibit, exploring how artists across

Paddle-making and storytelling at Long Island Children’s Museum

Step into the world of traditional Indigenous craftsmanship with Chenae Bullock, the artist who crafted the mishoon (Indigenous canoe) featured in the Saltwater Stories exhibit. In this dropin program, families discover the deep connection between paddles, water, and the land as you learn about their cultural significance. Visitors will have the opportunity to design and create their own mini paddles, while exploring stories, traditions, and creative activities that highlight the beauty of Indigenous craftsmanship.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

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

Having an event?

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

NOVEMBER 19 • 5:30-9:00PM

The Heritage Club at Bethpage

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CANON U.S.A., INC.

ELECTRIC

INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI

President & CEO

Canon U.S.A., Inc.

ACCOUNTING

JERRY P. WARD

Managing Partner

EY Long Island Office

KIRTHI MANI

Chief People Officer

CLA

LOUIS C. GRASSI, CPA, CFE

Founder & CEO

Grassi Advisors Group, Inc.

SHEILA KURMAN

Chief Human Resources Officer

Prager Metis CPAs

ADVERTISING

BENJAMIN COGGIANO

President Walter F. Cameron Advertising

CONSTRUCTION

JOSH SEIDEN

Owner & President

LMJ Management & Construction

EDUCATION

EDWARD T. BONAHUE, PH.D.

President

Suffolk County Community College

MARIA CONZATTI, PH.D.

Chief Administrative Officer

Nassau Community College

RACQUEL A. BROWN

Associate Dean Administrative & Fiscal Affairs

St. John’s University

TIMOTHY E. SAMS, PH.D.

President

SUNY Old Westbury

PATRICIA GALTERI

MICHAEL STEWART

Chief Financial Officer L.E.B Electric

ENGINEERING

MAQSOOD MALIK, P.E.

Founder, President & CEO

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

MOHAMMAD MALIK

Chief Operating Officer

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

Managing Attorney Meyer Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ. CELA , Chair Elder Law Practice Group, Partner Trusts & Estates Practice Group Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP

MANUFACTURING & DISTRIBUTION

FRANK PALMA

PRINTING

NOREEN CARRO

President

LMN Printing of NY, Inc.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

ROBERT M. GITTO

Vice President

The Gitto Group

TAX PROPERTY REDUCTION SERVICES

SEAN ACOSTA

President

BILLY HAUGLAND II

Chief Executive Officer Haugland Group ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

FINANCE

MICHAEL MARRERO

SBA Director, SVP BankUnited

HEALTHCARE

MICHAEL N. ROSENBLUT

President & CEO Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation Center

SOFIA AGORITSAS, MPA, FACHE Vice President, Business Development Cohen Children’s Medical Center

HOSPITALITY

MICHAEL LESSINGS

Chief Executive Officer Lessings Hospitality Group INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE

LAURA BONELLI President LifeVac LLC

LEGAL

ALLAN COHEN

Managing Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP

President Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, LLC

MORTGAGE BANKING

DONATO (DANNY) NICOLO

President/Owner Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

ANNE BRIGIS

President & CEO YMCA Long Island

JEFFREY L. REYNOLDS, PH.D.

President & CEO Family and Children’s Association (FCA)

KATHERINE FRITZ President & CEO Long Island Cares

LONNIE SHERMAN President General Needs

MIKE ROSEN

Chief Marketing Officer Guide Dog Foundation & America's VetDogs

TAMMY SEVERINO President & CEO Girls Scouts of Suffolk County

THERESA REGNANTE President & CEO United Way of Long Island

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

TECHNOLOGY

EUGENE SAYAN

Founder,Chairman, CEO Softheon

JOE SCIOSCIA

Executive Vice President

Vormittag Associates, Inc. (VAI)

MICHAEL CHAMBERS AND SEAN INFANTE

President & Vice President

Central Business Systems

TOM BIANCULLI

Chief Technology Officer

Zebra Technologies

TOURISM

MITCH PALLY

Interim President & CEO

Discover Long Island

SHARON WYMAN

Chief Operations Officer

Discover Long Island

TRANSPORTATION

MARLON TAYLOR

President

New York & Atlantic Railway

PALMINA WHELAN, CCM, FCMAA, MCIOB, NAC

Founder & Capital Program

Director of New Terminal 1 at JFK

Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions

ROBERT FREE

President

Long Island Rail Road

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., CSMC Mortgage-Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2006-3, Plaintiff AGAINST

Miguel J. Henry a/k/a Miguel Henry a/k/a Miguel J. Henry, Sr.; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 21, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 624 Pine Lane, East Meadow, NY 11554. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, District 3 Section 50 Block 573 Lot 14. Approximate amount of judgment $1,438,637.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608724/2018.

Jaime David Ezratty, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: October 6, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 156427

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2

ACQUISITION TRUST

C/O U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST JEAN LESLEY

JEAN-LOUIS AKA JEAN

LESLY JEAN-LOUIS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 12,

2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 21, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 33 2nd Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Westbury, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 11 Block 109 Lot 137 and 376. Approximate amount of judgment $409,294.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment In dex #604695/2023.

Lawrence S. Farbman, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-002694 87559 156410

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION ONE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-1, ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-1, -againstTITO MOLINA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 18, 2025, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION ONE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-1, ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-1 is the Plaintiff and TITO MOLINA, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 1, 2025 at 3:30PM, the premises known as 213 BELMONT AVENUE, WESTBURY, NY 11590; tax map identification 10-183-133; and description:

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF WESTBURY Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611237/2017. Paul L. Meli, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants

Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 156534

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE BEL AIRE CONDOMINIUM, Plaintiff, against ANDREW CHAMOW, as heir to the Estate of Robert Chamow; ANDREW CHAMOW, as heir to the Estate of Dorothy Chamow; ALICE BADER, as heir to the Estate of Robert Chamow; ALICE BADER, as heir to the Estate of Dorothy Chamow; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, et. al., Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated September 19, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York, “Rain or Shine”, on December 10, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises being all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, East Meadow, Nassau County and State of New York, known and designated as Residential Unit No. 126 together with a 1.62% undivided interest in the common elements of the condominium hereinafter described

as the same is defined in the Declaration of Condominium hereinafter referred to. The real property above described is a unit shown on the plans of a condominium prepared and certified by Sidney B. Bowne and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 23rd day of February, 2006, as Map No. CA-219 defined in the Declaration of Condominium entitled The Bel Aire Condominium made by Bristal Gardens at East Meadow, LLC under Article 9-B of the New York Real Property Law dated the 17th day of October, 2005 and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 23rd day of February, 2006 in Liber D12084 of Conveyances at page 1 covering the property therein described. Said premises known as 50 Merrick Avenue, #126, East Meadow, New York (SECTION 0050, BLOCK 00340, LOT 00509, UNIT 126). Said premises will be sold subject to zoning restrictions, covenants, easements, conditions, reservations and agreements, if any; subject to any state of facts as may appear from an accurate survey; subject to facts as to possession and occupancy and subject to whatever physical condition of the premises may be; subject to any violations of the zoning and other municipal ordinances and regulations, if any, and if the United States of America should file a tax lien, or other lien, subject to the equity of redemption of the United States of America; subject to the rights of any lienors of record whose liens have not been foreclosed herein, if any; subject to the rights of holders of security in fixtures as defined by the Uniform Commercial Code; subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon; and a first mortgage held by Wells Fargo Bank, mortgagee, given to Robert Chamow and Dorothy Chamow, mortgagors, in the original amount of $615,000.00 dated 10/25/2008 and recorded 11/18/2008 in

Crime brief

Arrest made in Westbury taxi driver stabbing

A New Cassel man was arrested Wednesday night after police say he stabbed a taxi driver during a dispute in Westbury.

According to Nassau County police, Sergio Ariel Guevara, 27, of Wright Street, entered a taxi on Maple Avenue around 11 p.m. and got into a physical altercation with the 31-year-old driver. Detectives said Guevara displayed a knife and stabbed the driver in the left arm before fleeing the vehicle.

The victim drove a short distance away and called police. Officers arrived

to find the driver bleeding heavily and applied a tourniquet before he was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Police said Guevara later returned to the scene, where a witness identified him. He was arrested without incident, and a knife was recovered. Guevara was also taken to a hospital for evaluation. He is charged with firstdegree assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned last week at the First District Court in Hempstead.

Public Notices

Liber 33345 at page 706. Said mortgage having been assigned to Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company by Assignment dated 9/8/2017 and recorded 9/18/2017 in Liber 42386 at page 940. Said mortgage having been further assigned to SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT by Assignment dated 11/5/2018 and recorded 11/9/2018 in Liber 43147 at page 765. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED ONLY BANK OR CERTIFIED CHECKS PAYABLE TO LOUIS IMBROTO, ESQ., AS REFEREE. Index No. 607530/2023 Dated: October 16, 2025

Louis Imbroto, Esq., Referee Cohen, Warren, Meyer & Gitter, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 98 Maple Avenue, Smithtown, NY 11787. 156665

LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS IN TAX LIEN FORECLOSURESUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU - TOWER DB XI TRUST 2021-1, Plaintiff, vs. STEPHANIE DACUS, et. al., Defendants. Index No. 607389/24. To the above named Defendants -YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action within twenty days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service or within thirty days after service is completed if the summons is not personally delivered to

you within the State of New York. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Plaintiffs designate Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the county in which the property liens upon which are being foreclosed is situated. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to the Order of the Hon. Jeffrey A. Goodstein, J.S.C., entered on October 29, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose tax liens covering the premises located at School District: 1 Section: 11 Block: 503 Lot: 5 on the Tax Map of Nassau County and also known as 270 Grand Street, Westbury, New York, 11590.

Dated: October 31, 2025 BRONSTER, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff TOWER DB XI TRUST 2021-1, By: Leonid Krechmer, Esq. 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703 New York, NY 10019 (212) 558-9300 156660

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Flagstar Bank, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Kelvin Puello a/k/a Kelvin R. Puello, Wendy Puello, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public

auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 9, 2025 at 2:30 PM premises known as 518 Benine Road, Westbury, NY 11590. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 10, BLOCK: 325, LOT: 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $715,871.39 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 602386/2020. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Wayne Wink, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WE ISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-093408-F00 87534 156572

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 11/19/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the

following applications and appeals:

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

583/25. EAST MEADOW - Richard & Maria Capace, Renewal of grant to maintain a portion of pool enclosure 8’ high., E/s Robyn Pl., 211.24’ S/o Lenox Ave., a/k/a 377 Robyn Pl. 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 East Meadow 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.

156786

HomesHERALD

•

Costs have gone up how much?

Q. We’re wondering what to do, whether to act now or wait to redo our kitchen and bathroom. We got estimates last spring, but thought we should wait because of the way the economy is going. Our contractor now says costs may have doubled since then. How can that be? We know some materials have gone up, but enough to nearly double? What are you seeing, since you’re involved in this, and are there any suggestions you can make? Our bathroom plumbing is leaking and our kitchen is at least 70 years old, with cabinet doors that are ready to fall off the hinges. Is there any reason to wait?

A. I doubt that, for the foreseeable future, you’ll get a great price to do the work you describe, unfortunately. We’re experiencing a “perfect storm” event in slow motion, and unless people start making themselves heard by either voicing their concerns to those with power or responding by not paying the higher prices, this spiral of rising costs is going to take time to reverse.

There are many parts to any project. Let’s start with planning. I’ve seen that many people naively believe they can just hire somebody or do the job themselves. They believe that within the walls of their home they can do anything. Well, you can — until you get caught. When trucks with a company name, a dumpster or a delivery are spotted in front of your house, a roaming official may show up to inspect, then give you an unreasonable time frame, like 14 to 30 days, to get plans submitted by a licensed architect or engineer or face fines. So you hire the professional and, little by little, learn of things you didn’t know you needed, like a permit for your air conditioning and higher costs for insulation to pass the energy code. Your design professional must submit a detailed set of energy-compliance pages showing how your new work will meet strict requirements. These are already three expenses you may not have expected. A fourth extra cost could be for legalizing, with a time-involved zoning variance, the outdoor A.C. unit if the installers never bothered to check or inform you that where they put the unit won’t pass local zoning requirements, and they avoided the permit you now need.

Now you’re ready for estimates. One will be almost double the others, because competition does that. But you want great quality and Americanmade. So the price rises back up to nearly the level of the higher bidder. Why? Labor increased due to obvious shortages of employees who will work for less. Materials were affected by tariff reactions, and energy costs have risen. Many homeowners are trying to get work done in a mild panic, so demand causes shortages in supplies, which were just catching up after the pandemic.

It may take a groundswell of people choosing not to do work to change things, but historically, prices won’t drop significantly. Good luck!

© 2025 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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Local triumphs on a night Republicans didn’t expect

nassau County Republicans scored outstanding victories in last week’s elections, which, with the other exception of our neighbors in Suffolk County, were a political disaster for Republicans across the country. And those Nassau victories didn’t come easily, or without tension. Anyone who has ever jumped into the political caldron and run for elective office knows the surreal experience and anxiety of election night. Everything that could have been done has been done. It’s all over but the waiting — for either the joy of victory or the agony of defeat.

As is the tradition under county party Chairman Joe Cairo, Republicans held their electionnight gathering at the Coral House in Baldwin. The crowd began gathering about 8:30 p.m., a half-hour before the polls closed. Within an hour, the ballroom was filled to capacity. In a private room at the rear of the building, candidates and party leaders waited to receive and analyze vote tallies from the hamlets, villages, towns and cities that

comprise the nation’s oldest suburbs.

In the lead-up to election night, Nassau Republicans were as upbeat as they could be. The ticket was led by Bruce Blakeman, who was seeking re-election as county executive after a very successful first term. Blakeman had held the line on taxes and, most important, the county was judged the safest in America. Amid growing concern that the anti-police proposals of the favorite to become New York City mayor, Zohran Mamdani, would increase the crossover crime from Queens into Nassau, Blakeman’s proven propolice, anti-crime policies had strongly resonated with the Nassau electorate. To buttress his strong law-and-order stand, there were District Attorney Anne Donnelly, a career prosecutor, and Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, who stood 24/7 with his men and women in blue.

Tmore than an outside chance. Instead, barely an hour after the polls closed, Democrat Abigail Spanberger was declared the winner in what appeared to be a landslide. Not a good omen.

he election wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout that we anticipated.

But New Jersey would be different, we thought. Polls had shown Republican Jack Ciattarelli closing the gap on Democrat Mikie Sherrill (whom I’d served with in Congress). The final pre-election polls showed Sherrill with just a 2-point lead, and Ciattarelli having all the momentum. Instead, as soon as the state’s polls closed, Sherrill jumped to an immediate lead, which steadily grew.

was always a commanding presence at these moments, had not yet appeared. Shortly after 10 p.m., he entered the room, explaining that he was “under the weather” and been feeling rotten all day. He did, however, have numbers showing that with about 60 percent of the votes counted, Republicans were holding all our current offices, and might possibly pick up one or two more. There was a huge sigh of relief.

But all did not go smoothly on election night. The Nassau results came in slowly, so our attention was focused on the governors’ races in New Jersey and Virginia as possible indicators of what Nassau’s results might be. While the Virginia race had been expected to lean Democratic, Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears was thought to have

Then, just after 9 p.m., there was more bad news. Mamdani was headed to a clear victory over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, as Curtis Sliwa siphoned off votes that might have made the difference. In Nassau the votes were still barely trickling in, and all we could see was a blue wave everywhere. There was a feeling of foreboding about what might await us amid reports that the turnout in some Republican areas had been less than expected. This night wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout victory that had been anticipated.

Adding to the concern, Cairo, who

Cairo cautioned, though, that the night wasn’t over until all the votes were counted, saying, “There’s nothing more meaningless than the score at halftime.” About a half-hour later, he returned to announce that the Republican trend had continued. In fact, we had swept every contested seat on the City Council in Long Beach, where Democratic voters have a 7-1 majority, for the first time since 1971.

About 11:30, led by Blakeman and Cairo, Republicans made their way through the Coral House ballroom onto the stage to claim victory, to acknowledge the roaring crowd and to thank them for their efforts and support. Another election night was in the books. It wasn’t easy, but the blue wave had been stopped at the Nassau border!

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

Getting elected looks easy. Governing is the hard part.

The die is cast. New York City will have a new mayor, Zohran Mamdani. But it’s one thing to campaign for public office, and another thing altogether to run one of the biggest cities in the world, with a demanding populace and innumerable challenges. It reminds me of the Robert Redford movie “The Candidate.”

On the morning after he succeeds in winning his senatorial election, Redford’s character, Bill McKay, asks, “What do we do now?”

Having observed a number of mayoral contests, I feel qualified to opine on what first steps a new mayor must take that will make or break his years in office. While there are many positions that Mamdani must fill starting Jan. 1, the most important one is budget director. New York City has a somewhat shaky financial picture, and having someone who can crunch the numbers and package the spending plan will be life or death for him.

The next-most-visible job is that of police commissioner. The New York City Police Department currently has an intelligent and respected leader in Jessica Tisch, who has served with distinction since November 2024. Prior to that she was commissioner of the city Department of Sanitation, where she won the respect of union leaders, who admired her smarts and her approach to the job.

At this stage, Tisch has nothing new to prove. She works well with the police rank-and-file, and has never run afoul of law enforcement unions. She could easily take a job in the private sector and get a big pat on the back for a job well done. On the other hand, she may be willing to continue in the police commissioner’s job until such time as the mayor asks her to take some action that she finds objectionable.

M amdani, like Robert Redford’s Bill McKay, may wonder, ‘What do we do now?’

on departmental staffing levels. During the mayoral campaign, both former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani pledged to hire 5,000 new patrolmen, a pledge easier made than accomplished. The city needs thousands of new police officers to replace the large number who have opted to retire in recent years, but building up the department isn’t an easy job. Because of the city’s low starting salaries, the pay is unattractive. Many current members of the department have decided to take jobs in the suburbs, where entry-level pay is typically much higher. A new mayor can make all kinds of promises, but the key to getting new cops is higher pay, and as few policy challenges as possible. An overbearing mayor with too many liberal policies will chill the force’s future.

I’ve heard a variety of views about Mayor Eric Adams’s record in office, and there’s no question that he has had a number of ethical issues. Key commissioners and their assistants have been forced to resign due to conflicts and questionable actions. His most ardent supporters claim that the ethics issues have been overstated, but the record is there for everyone to examine, and it doesn’t look good.

The path forward for the new mayor will be most challenging. He is a neophyte, and knows nothing about the city’s true challenges. If he chooses qualified people for his administration, their successes will speak for themselves. If he makes serious mistakes, the Republican establishment will broadcast to the entire world that “we told you so.”

Mamdani hasn’t offered many opinions on how the Police Department should operate, other than suggesting that mental health professionals should accompany officers on patrol on calls involving people with mental health issues. He hasn’t offered any opinions on such programs as Stop and Frisk, or

One of the city’s current weaknesses is its Law Department. The corporation counsel’s office is badly in need of staff to handle the thousands of challenges it faces annually. There are about a thousand people in the department, but because it’s understaffed, taxpayers wind up paying a price in lost cases.

Even though Nassau is a borderline county and Suffolk is even more distant, we need a New York City that has low crime rates and is fiscally sound. An old political sage once told me that “when New York City sneezes, Long Island catches a cold.” Let’s hope the adage doesn’t hold true.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

roBert CuMMings

Hochul must sign police radio access bill

at a time when we are grappling with an erosion of public trust, a new threat to transparency is emerging. Across New York, police departments are encrypting their radio systems — cutting off journalists, and, by extension, the public, from critical, real-time information.

It’s not just a press freedom issue. It’s a public safety issue.

From Atlantic Beach to Babylon, Long Islanders deserve to know what’s happening in their communities, especially during moments of crisis — a school lockdown, a shooting or a natural disaster. Instead, we are increasingly forced to rely on rumor, fragmented updates or, worse, no information at all.

In the age of social media misinformation, that’s not just frustrating. It’s dangerous.

Fortunately, state lawmakers have passed a bill that seeks to reverse this perilous trend. The legislation, S.416/A.3516, sponsored by two Democrats in the Legislature, Sen. Mike Gianaris and Assemblywoman Karines Reyes, would guarantee credentialed journalists secure, real-time access to encrypted police radio communications.

It is now on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk, awaiting her signature. She must sign it.

letters

Let’s hear about the other sides of Trump, Peter King

To the Editor:

I have always respected Peter King’s political opinions, although I may not have agreed with some of them. I especially appreciate his efforts in bringing about the Good Friday Agreement and peace in Northern Ireland in the late 1990s.

In his op-ed in the Oct. 30-Nov. 5 issue, “Trump has written the first chapter of a new Mideast history,” King praises President Trump, and rightly so, for his excellent work in bringing together a number of countries and leaders to bring an end to the horrific war in Gaza. Let’s hope it holds. Now, I hope King devotes a column to Trump’s actions (or lack thereof) and behavior as our “domestic” president. We are currently more than 40 days into a government shutdown in which military personal and federal workers are not being paid (but Congress is!), 42 million people have lost most of their SNAP benefits and health insurance prices will double in January. Surely our president could use his power — and he loves doing that — to bring solutions to these important issues. He could order his puppet, Mike Johnson, the speaker of the

For nearly a century, journalists have monitored police radio frequencies and alerted the public to developing emergencies. That’s how people on Long Island and beyond have learned about major accidents, crimes in progress and natural disasters. In some cases, lives have been saved thanks to timely, verified information reported by local media.

Now that lifeline is being cut off.

Proponents of encryption argue that it protects sensitive information and personal privacy. That’s a valid concern — but this legislation addresses it. Under the bill, access would be password-protected, monitored and limited to credentialed journalists. Reporters would not be able to transmit on the channels or interfere in any way. If anyone were to abuse the privilege, his or her access would be revoked. Critically sensitive communications would remain encrypted.

This is not about giving journalists a backstage pass to law enforcement. It’s about making sure the public isn’t left in the dark when seconds count.

We’ve already seen the consequences of delayed information. In Chicago, a delay in releasing police communications during a courthouse shooting in July prevented timely warnings to the

public.

Police departments that initially embraced full encryption are rethinking the policy. In 2022, the Palo Alto Police Department, in California, reversed its policy of encrypting police radio communications and restored real-time access for the public and the press. The reversal came after the department had encrypted its radio feeds in January 2021, citing a state memo that required the protection of personal identifying information.

New York should learn from that example. At a time when trust in institutions is fragile, blocking information — especially during emergencies — only fuels suspicion and confusion. It invites misinformation to fill the vacuum, and puts lives at risk.

Journalists are not adversaries of public safety. In many cases, they are its allies, helping to get accurate information to people who need it. Whether it’s a car crash that shuts down the Southern State Parkway or a threat that necessitates a school lockdown, the public has a right to know — and know quickly.

Hochul has long described herself as a defender of open government and transparency. Now she has a chance to prove it.

House, to reconvene Congress, negotiate and end this disgrace.

Also, I hope King will address the president’s manner and words in dealing with people. Shouldn’t a president try to unite people, and not mock and insult them, as he

has done on many, many occasions and probably will continue to do?

I look forward to those columns.

opinions

When Long Island changed history

Long Island is well known for its beaches, the Hamptons, our pizza places and diners. But we harbor certain secrets — places where generally unknown events shaped history in big ways.

I stumbled on one several years ago, and it triggered the writing of my newest novel, “The Einstein Conspiracy.” It’s a historic thriller based on actual events that occurred on Long Island just as the world was descending into World War II. The secret I uncovered was actually hidden in plain sight: a modest cottage overlooking a harbor on the North Fork. I’d read that Albert Einstein rented the home in the summer of 1939, and there he composed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt that changed the world.

The letter itself is well known to followers of Einstein. He and a colleague,

Letters

We need journalists now more than ever

To the Editor:

Your editorial in the Oct. 16-22 issue, “Real journalists, reporting real stories,” on the vital importance of journalism, resonated with me. I subscribe to three newspapers: the Herald, Newsday and the Daily News. I am a strong believer in the First Amendment, and the power and freedom of the press. We need you now more than ever.

The skepticism for the media lies in the current regime’s constantly labeling it “fake news.” It’s only “fake” when it doesn’t conform to the regime’s edicts. The man in the White House is unilaterally imposing his will, bullying universities, corporations, law firms and the press, and sending troops into states to suppress crime that doesn’t exist.

Our democracy is fragile. We must continue to use our voices and peacefully protest the eroding of our rights and freedoms, the inhumane treatment of non-criminal immigrants, and so much more, lest we become an autocracy. I will continue to support the press, and I thank you for your truth, integrity, honesty and hard work.

MARGUERITE WESTBROOk Lynbrook

Leo Szilard, drafted it to warn FDR that Germany was researching the production of an atomic bomb, and that the science of a chain reaction leading to massive destruction was feasible. At that point, the Holocaust was expanding in intensity, and Germany was planning war across Europe. While an atom bomb in Hitler’s arsenal was unthinkable, the United States government had no serious research program.

A

My fascination with that cottage ignited the spinning of my own imagination. I spent two years researching Einstein’s stay on Long Island. He arrived on the North Fork on May 1, 1939, right after giving a speech on opening night of the World’s Fair in Flushing. He brought his rickety 14-foot sailboat, which was named Tinef — Yiddish for junk, trash or rubbish. He sailed the Peconic, shopped locally, strolled on the beach at Nassau Point, played the violin with the neighbors. Einstein’s life wasn’t entirely idyllic. He had fled deadly persecution by the

Nazis, including several threats on his life. In America he sought freedom and tolerance. But it wasn’t long before Hitler’s dark shadow reached him.

fter Albert Einstein spent some quality time in a cottage here, we built the bomb.

In February 1939, a proNazi rally in Madison Square Garden attracted 20,000 people. In Yaphank, 32 miles from Einstein’s North Fork cottage, the Aryan residents of a restricted neighborhood flew swastika flags, trained children to be American storm troopers and named their roads after Hitler, Goebbels and Goering. The community campgrounds were used for pro-Nazi demonstrations and rallies. They were so popular that the Long Island Rail Road ran a train from Penn Station called the Camp Siegfried Special. Meanwhile, in New York City, the FBI pursued an extensive, widespread network of Nazi spies seeking to penetrate our military facilities, defense plants and government offices.

As a member of Congress, I occasionally dabbled in the arts of spin and embellishment. The skill came in handy

FrAmework by Tim Baker

in the writing of “The Einstein Conspiracy.” In the weeks after my first encounter with the old Einstein cottage — now privately owned — I began my own spinning of a novel that pits two FBI agents against a Nazi undercover agent trying to stop Einstein from warning Roosevelt about Hitler’s bomb. It’s based on real places, people and events.

Nearly three months after Einstein and Szilard began drafting their letter, it was finally delivered to FDR on their behalf. A mutual friend insisted on reading it aloud in the Oval Office. The president responded, “What you are after is to see that the Nazis don’t blow us up.” That night, a committee was formed to coordinate a response. An embryonic atomic research program was organized to race Adolf Hitler to an atom bomb.

In time, it became known as the Manhattan Project.

Conceived right here, on Long Island.

Steve Israel represented Long Island in Congress for 16 years, and now owns Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay. Information on his latest novel is available at einsteinconspiracy.com. He is currently on a national book tour.