Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 02-05-2026

Honoring Italian heritage

Carnevale is Italy’s traditional festival season held in the weeks leading up to Lent and marked by parades, costumes, masks and rich foods. Members of America Lodge 2245, the Franklin Square chapter of the Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy, gathered Sunday afternoon at Ascension Lutheran Hall for an afternoon of Italian cuisine and festivities. About 90 guests attended, enjoying a menu that included pasta dishes and chicken. At right, , Joe Armocida, president, gives thanks to the crowd for coming. Above, guests are posing with Armocida. Story, more photos, Page 10.

One kidney, hope for Elias

A living kidney donation can be lifechanging for this teenage boy

By HAIlEY FUlMER hfulmer@liherald.com

On the outside, he’s a typical eighth-grade boy –– riding bikes with his friends, playing video games, a stellar student at H. Frank Carey High School — but on the inside, Elias Manolis is living with rapid kidney failure.

Elias and his family have been searching for a living kidney donor since November.

The Franklin Square community has offered its support, with several other nonprofits involved including Howie’s Heart, whose focus is on spreading charitable actions.

dark period for her, as a wife and mother.

“I really emphasize with what the family must be going through,” Camacho said of the Manolises. “Knowing what they’re up against, and you know how they’re currently feeling, we just really wanted to help.”

K nowing what they’re up against, and you know how they’re currently feeling, we just really wanted to help.

JENNIFER CAMACHo Founder, Howie’s Heart

Jennifer Camacho, of Franklin Square, a founder of Howie’s Heart, knows what it’s like to undergo the kidney donation process. Her brother, Camacho explained, donated a kidney to her husband three years ago. She acknowledged that it was a

That desire has prompted Camacho and Howie’s Heart to plan a fundraiser on March 12 to raise money for Elias’s medical expenses.

Although kidney donation is less traumatic than many people think, Camacho explained, it comes with hefty medical expenses, and she wants to raise awareness of the costs that are often not covered by insurance. The fundraiser is intended to raise as much money as possible for Elias’s family, at an event that will include a dinner, raffles, entertainment and, most important, messages of hope.

Continued on page 5

Solages hosts know your rights seminar

Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D – Valley Stream) and NYS Assemblymember Michaelle Solages joined with the Amistad Long Island Black Bar Association, the Elmont Cultural Center, the Central American Resource Center (CARECEN) and government partners to host a “Know Your Rights” seminar at Bethany French Baptist Church in Elmont on Thursday, Jan. 29.

During the seminar, experts answered questions about what to do if ICE comes to your door; your rights to record interactions with ICE agents; steps you can take if Temporary Protected Status is canceled as expected on Feb. 3; alternative pathways to citizenship; pro-bono legal services, and more.

“It’s a sad day in America when people are fearful to come to a public place for free legal advice in a because they fear that ICE could be there as well,” Legislator Solages said. “I’m very thankful to Bethany French Baptist Church for hosting this event and helping us to provide information that people can use to advocate for themselves and assert their rights. Thank you to all of the sponsors who came and supported us, all the attorneys who volunteered their time, and Congresswoman Laura Gillen, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and the office of Senator Chuck Schumer for supporting this event.”

–Hailey

Fulmer

hosts “Know Your Rights” seminar to provide an informative discussion on your rights when interacting with ICE agents.

Alexia Moreau shines as valedictorian

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Alexia Moreau is a young woman who can do it all. Recognized as Elmont Memorial High School’s 2025-26 salutatorian, her merited spirit and her rooted passion in everything that she does will have a lasting effect on Elmont. Her rigor in STEM is evident through her participation in the Science and Technology Entry Program and as a mathlete. Additionally, she remains a prominent STEM leader, serving as the Math Honor Society secretary and Science Bowl team captain.

Moreau says that passing AP chemistry really grounded her because of its challenging content: “Probably the first class I ever cried over,” she said. “Passing that class and being able to push through that, it really told me like, oh you are way smarter than you think you are,” she further shared. Still, although it was her lowest grade at 91, her high academic merit is shown through her dedication and enthusiastic attitude.

Henrolled in 10 AP courses over her high school career, earning her the AP Capstone Diploma and the AP Scholar with Distinction. To balance it all, she says that she attempts to get most of her work done through the course of the school day so she can have time to relax at home.

er smile and her warmth light up every room.

Moreau remains ambitious toward veterinary work. The young scholar had the chance to attend the prestigious VetCamp at North Carolina State University last summer. A very selective process out of hundreds of students, only 80 are selected to attend. An avid animal lover, she wants to directly help animals before they undergo surgery, focusing in on the research side of things. She plans to pursue a program in microbiology to conduct animal research.

MAYA BAKER Principal, Elmont Memorial High School

She shares her love for music — as a talented flutist performing in the global jazz orchestra and jazz band, her musical talent carried her into winning the AllDistrict Band for 3 years. Her spirited nature in activities like music is additionally highlighted in her position as section leader for Elmont Memorial’s marching band.

Along with her sharp musicality as a flutist, she

“I have always loved animals, I used to take care of alley cats,” she said. Her deep passion for taking care of animals reflects other areas where she commits acts of service, including her role as a math tutor and an active member of Key Club.

Her down-to-earth attitude in everything she does will shine wherever she goes, including in her pursuit of veterinary work and her deep devotion to caring for animals.

Her principal, Marya Baker of Elmont Memorial, describes Moreau as an “incredible scholar and a leader in our school. Her smile and her warmth light up every room.”

Yalisah Lozada achieves salutatorian honor

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Elmont Memorial High School has named Yalisah Lozada salutatorian for the 2025-26 school year, recognizing her academic excellence, leadership and wide-ranging involvement in extracurricular activities.

Throughout her time at Elmont Memorial, Lozada has taken on leadership roles reflecting her commitment to issues important to her and her peers. She served as class president during her junior year and currently serves as treasurer of the Key Club, helping organize and oversee blood drives and other service initiatives. Her work with Model United Nations earned her both an Outstanding Delegate Award and a Verbal Communication Award, highlighting her strengths in debate and leadership. Despite a demanding schedule filled with extracurricular commitments, Lozada has earned High Honor Roll recognition every year since 7th grade.

larly challenging.

“There was just so much schoolwork that I had to get through,” she said. “I just remember I had to keep pushing and motivating myself because I have never been the type of person that allowed myself to fail.”

T here was just so much schoolwork that I had to get through I have never been the type of person that allowed myself to fail.

Lozada is also a member of the National Education Equity Lab Honor Society, which recognizes students nationwide who successfully complete rigorous college-credit coursework. She is additionally a member of multiple honor societies, including the World Language, National English, National Science, Tri-M Music, Rho Kappa and Mu Alpha Theta honor societies, underscoring her dedication to academic achievement. Her academic focus remained strong even during personal hardship. Lozada lost her grandfather during her sophomore year, a period she described as particu-

YALIsH LozAdA Salutatorian, Elmont Memorial High School

Her perseverance through that difficult time, she said, ultimately strengthened her determination and contributed to her success today.

“Yalisah is a phenomenal young woman who has embraced everything that Elmont has to offer, and she has given back so much tenfold,” Principal Marya Baker said.

A lifelong science enthusiast, Lozada said her interest in medicine deepened while visiting her grandfather during his illness.

“I wanted to help people the same way that they helped him,” she said.

Beyond academics, Lozada is deeply involved in Elmont Memorial’s theater program, participating in productions such as Cinderella, Descendants and The Addams Family. This year, she stars as Kim MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie.

She said she enjoys portraying characters who grow and change, noting that MacAfee learns to balance excitement about adulthood while appreciating the present.

“I really like the story behind her character and how she is changing and adapting throughout the show,” Lozada said.

She hopes to continue performing in community theater productions in the future.

Lozada has been accepted to several State University of New York schools but is awaiting a decision from

her top choice, Northeastern University, expected in April. She plans to pursue biochemistry with the goal of entering the medical field.

Her unwavering commitment to purposeful leadership will not go unnoticed. Looking ahead, Lozada said she hopes to further explore the world around her, including participating in a study abroad program during her college years.

Alzheimer’s webinar to aid older Black Americans

In recognition of Black History Month, and in partnership with the Divine Nine Consortium, the Alzheimer’s Association is offering a free live webinar, “Alzheimer’s & Dementia: What You Need to Know” on Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. The Divine Nine serves as a coordinating body for the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, offering opportunities to advance leadership, education excellence, service, cultural heritage and social impact.

The one-hour webinar will feature a dynamic panel of clinicians, researchers, caregivers and advocates representing the Divine Nine, exploring the intersection of dementia science, health equity, and lived experience. It will examine how Alzheimer’s and related dementias impact diverse communities, discuss participation in research and clinical trials, and share culturally responsive practices to improve awareness, engagement and outcomes.

The Alzheimer’s Association is hosting a free webinar this month, n partnership with the Divine Nine Consortium, examining how Alzheimer’s and related dementias impact diverse communities.

Currently, more than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as older white Americans. Chronic health conditions associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, disproportionately affect Black Americans.

According to the 2021 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report, nearly two-thirds of Black Americans, or 62 percent, believe that medical research is biased against people of color. A history of exclusion from clinical trials and a lasting history of discrimination from the medical establishment contribute to high levels of mistrust of clinical trials among Black Americans.

“We know that Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately affects Black older Americans,” Dr. Carl V. Hill, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer at the Alzheimer’s Association said. “We are committed to continue engaging underrepresented communities.”

Visit Alz-org.Zoom.us to register or call (800) 272-3900.

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

The association has a Long Island chapter based in Melville. It runs education programs on Long Island, support groups, and offers other forms of virtual education. Annual efforts culminate in a fundraising walk, typically held in October in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. Visit ALZ.org/LongIsland for more.

Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail:

Young teen, family faces a fight for life

Brian Martindale, of Bay City, Michigan, the founder of Kidney for Kids, became a living kidney donor in 2013. At the time, 10-year-old Jessica Schwerin, a Michigan resident, needed a kidney, and Martindale donated his after he discovered they were a match. Schwerin now serves on the board of directors of the foundation, which is headquartered in Bay City, Michigan and both she and Martindale live healthy lives.

“I’m 64 years old living with one kidney, Martindale said. “When I donated in January 2013, I had been running a clothing brand line, and I have been running little clothing stores and experimented for a few months, but after donating four months later, I was climbing 100-foot towers at Dow Chemical and spraypainting and hauling 60 pounds of materials up with me.” When Martindale founded Kidney for Kids in 2022, that was when he honed in on spreading more awareness so children like Elias can live a long, healthy life.

Martindale underwent testing in the fall of 2013, and found out six weeks later that he and Jessica were a match. If you’re not a good match with someone in need, he said of the process, you still have the option to donate your kidney to another recipient. After the surgery, he added, “If

you’re working a desk job, you can be back in two weeks with light work.”

Elias’s mother, Rita Manolis, said that having a living donor will increase her son’s life expectancy. The family has busied themselves with outreach to not only raise awareness for the cause, but to find that perfect kidney match. Elias was featured on News12 Long Island in November, and shortly afterward, Kidney for Kids reached out to his family.

During the holiday season, the Kids Need More foundation delivers presents to sick children in Christmas “buses,” and Camacho, who is active in Kids Need More as well as Howie’s Heart, ended up being the Manolises’ sponsor for the event, and connected with them after finding out more about Elias.

Next month’s fundraiser will be the first one for Howie’s Heart, which will celebrate its two-year anniversary this month, and the charity is continuously posting on its social media pages to help garner support for the Manolis family. The search for a kidney for Elias continues, as heartfelt messages are exchanged online, raising awareness of his condition. He is currently in the care of doctors from the NYU Langone health system. Visit HowiesHeart.com to purchase tickets for the fundraiser.

We would like to congratulate Marisa Filardo on receiving the Long Island Herald Realtor Excellence Award. Helena Veloso and the Franklin Square office are wishing her continued success as this honor recognizes Marisa’s outstanding work, integrity, and continued dedication to her clients and community.

spotlight athlete

MIA DISALVO

SOUTH SIDE Senior Gymnastics

A MEMBER OF SOUTH SIDE’S varsity for five seasons, DiSalvo is considered one of the most talented gymnasts in Nassau County. She earned All-County honors on vault in the 202122 campaign and has been All-County in three events (vault, balance beam and floor exercise) in each of the past four seasons. Her career highs are 8.45 on vault, 8.95 on beam and 9.3 on floor. She’s also one of the Cyclones’ captains.

games to watch

Thursday, Feb. 5

Girls Basketball: Sewanhaka at Carey 4:30 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Manhasset at Elmont 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Roosevelt at Mepham 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Calhoun at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: South Side at Clarke 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Lawrence at Seaford 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Long Beach at Calhoun 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Clarke at South Side 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: G.N. South at MacArthur 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 6

Boys Basketball: Carey at Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

Boys Basketball: V.S. North at V.S. South 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Carle Place at West Hemp 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Island Trees at Malverne 6 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Baldwin at Oceanside 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Lo. Valley at North Shore 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Seaford at Lawrence 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: V.S. North at V.S. South 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7

Boys Basketball: Hempstead at Freeport 11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Massapequa at Uniondale 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Massapequa at South Side 3 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Baldwin 4 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

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

HERALD SPORTS

Carey focuses on many positives

By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com

The Carey girls basketball team is going through a rough patch as the season nears a close, currently 4-11, but hope is not lost. Least of all not in the eyes of their head coach, who sees the hard work the Seahawks pour in day in and day out.

“I have 16 of the greatest kids and I truly mean that. They’re hard workers,” said head coach Anthony Turco. “We’re struggling right now but they play hard for each other, they play hard when they step on the court.”

Carey’s most recent win, 52-45, came over Elmont Jan. 14. Andrea Arias and Miracle Heredia-White lead the scoring with 10 points each. Daisy Buja and Ophelin Lin poured in 8 points each. Isabella Giordano added 6 points and Aria Agcaian put up 5 with the team’s only made three-pointer.

Wins are fun, but Carey’s defense is its calling card, and for a number of reasons. Turco highlighted Buja, a sophomore, in her on-court efforts.

“She takes things personally in the sense of, she was a ninth grader last year playing on varsity, her athleticism, her will is something that’s going to drive her to be successful in the future,” Turco said of Buja. “The confidence to shoot the ball, she had zero confidence in shootin gthe ball last year, now she’ll try to break somebody down and shoot the basket, that’s how confident she is, and it’s impressive. It’s impressive to watch her play.”

There’s also Sophia Cavaliere, who Turco desecribed as fierce on the defensive side of the ball. Turco didn’t have to vouch for her, he said that Cavaliere’s actions speak for themselves when he assigned her Elmont’s best offense player, Kayla Latiff, someone they scouted to typically post 14-16 points per game. Cavaliere held her assignment to just 6 points.

Generally, the Seahawks have been going through a rough patch lately, on a six-game losing streak dating back to Jan. 17. That doesn’t mean the squad has thrown in the towel and began sulk-

Aria Agcaian, right, and the Seahawks

note.

ing in defeat, not by any means, according to Turco.

“When a team is not successful the way we are right now, you would think they would pack it in and not play hard,” Turco said. “One thing I say, I’m not going to stop coaching until the last horn of the last game, and I don’t expect them to stop playing.”

Turco wants to see the offense improve. It’s not wholly absent, it’s just not stable.

“We communicate well, we switch defensively, when we press, we press pretty well, we anticipate things well,

we [force] turnovers,” according to Turco. “We’re working hard in practice, with shooting drills, challenging each other, unfortunately it’s just not turning over into the game.”

There’s plenty Turco juggles in his mind on every possession: player communication, player experience or lack thereof, but most importantly, how intensely the girls push themselves on the hardwood.

“They play hard for each other, and that’s something that is impressive by them. They ‘say’ by their play,” Turco said.

Valentine’s Day traditions and origins

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Valentine’s Day, celebrated each year on February 14, is a holiday recognized around the world as

1Valentine’s Day has ancient roots that predate romantic love.

Although Valentine’s Day is now strongly associated with romance, its origins are much older and not originally about love. The holiday traces back to ancient Rome, where a festival called Lupercalia was celebrated in midFebruary. Lupercalia was linked to fertility, health, and the coming of spring. During this festival, rituals were performed to promote fertility and ward off evil spirits. When Christianity spread through the Roman Empire, many pagan festivals were adapted into Christian holidays. Over time, Lupercalia was replaced with a day honoring Saint Valentine, helping shift the holiday’s meaning from fertility rituals to something more symbolic and moral.

2

There was likely multiple “Saint Valentines.”

One interesting fact is that historians are not certain which Valentine the

a time to express love and affection. Its roots trace back centuries, blending religious tradition with cultural customs that have evolved

holiday refers to. There were at least two Christian martyrs named Valentine who lived during the 3rd century. One popular legend claims that a priest named Valentine secretly performed marriages for couples when marriage was banned by Emperor Claudius II. Another story suggests Valentine helped imprisoned Christians and signed letters “from your Valentine,” which may explain the phrase still used today. While these stories are difficult to confirm historically, they contributed to Valentine becoming associated with love, devotion, and kindness.

3

The holiday became romantic in the Middle Ages.

Valentine’s Day did not become strongly linked with romantic love until the Middle Ages, especially in England and France. During this time, people believed that birds began mating in midFebruary, which helped connect the date with romance. Famous writers such

over time.

From ancient legends to modern-day chocolates and cards, here are five things to know about the holiday and its traditions:

as Geoffrey Chaucer wrote poems that linked Valentine’s Day to love and courtship. This literary influence played a major role in shaping how people viewed the holiday, turning it into a day for expressing affection rather than simply honoring a saint.

4

Valentine’s Day cards—and chocolate— have a long history.

Exchanging Valentine’s messages has been popular for centuries. The oldest known Valentine’s card dates to 1415, when Charles, Duke of Orléans, wrote a poem to his wife while he was imprisoned. By the 18th and 19th centuries, printed Valentine’s cards became common, especially in Europe and the United States. Improvements in printing technology and cheaper postage helped make cards widely accessible. Today, Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular card-giving holidays, with millions exchanged each year.

Chocolate and Valentine’s Day are

also loosely connected, but this wasn’t always the case. In the 1800s, a chocolate maker named Richard Cadbury began selling chocolates in decorative, heartshaped boxes. These boxes were often kept as souvenirs after the chocolates were eaten. This idea helped turn chocolate into a classic Valentine’s Day gift, a tradition that continues today.

5

Valentine’s Day is celebrated differently around the world.

While many countries celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14, traditions vary widely. In Japan, it is customary for girls to give chocolate to boys, while boys return the favor a month later White Day. In Finland and Estonia, the holiday focuses more on friendship than romance and is often called “Friend’s Day.” In some cultures, Valentine’s Day is less commercial or not widely celebrated at all. These differences show how the holiday has been adapted to fit local customs and values.

Powering Long Island: A History of Resilience and Reinvention

The story of Long Island’s energy infrastructure is one of growth, ambition, missteps and resilience.

From the development of the Long Island Lighting Company (LILCO) and the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) to handle a growing need, to key historical events like

A

the Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant saga and Hurricane Sandy, Long Island’s power grid has a storied history.

The Formation of LILCO

Around 1910, LILCO was created by combining four small Suffolk County utility companies to make improvements on the existing system to deliver electric power. For much of its history, LILCO focused on

large, centralized fossil-fuel power plants supported by an expanding grid.

Long before the adverse effects of climate change would be felt, the dangerous choice to rely on fossil fuels was evident in the Bay Shore gas explosion in 1919, knocking out power for three days.

Through the 1950s and 60s, negative effects were felt to a greater impact. Most famously the New York smog event of 1966, where air pollution from coal power plants and other sources led to poisonous air quality, severe health impacts and deaths.

While plagued by these negative public health circumstances, this system did meet the energy demand of the day. But, in the 1960s and ‘70s, the development of air conditioning made demand for electric power skyrocket. LILCO’s answer? The Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant.

The Shoreham Nuclear Plant: A Defining Turning Point

The Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant was constructed, but was met with public opposition and significant safety concern studies. The 1979 accident at the Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania amplified these concerns.

Though completed, and still reflected on Long Island ratepayers utility bills, Shoreham never operated commercially, and it became a national symbol of failed centralized energy planning. Ultimately, the plant was decommissioned, leaving Long Islanders with debt—and a lasting skepticism toward large, single-point energy solutions.

Storms, Blackouts and a Grid Under Stress

From 1985’s Hurricane Gloria that knocked out electricity to two-thirds of LILCO’s customers, to the Northeast blackout of 2003 that halted the Long Island Rail Road, to Hurricane Sandy in 2012 where 90 percent of Long Island lost power, to every tropical storm and weather event in between, these natural disasters continued to expose deep flaws in the aging infrastructure. Each event compounded existing wear on the system, accelerating the need for reinforcement, storm hardening, smarter grid design and diversity of energy sources— while costing a premium to do so. These moments also reshaped public expectations: reliability is no longer just about everyday demand, but about resilience under extreme conditions.

From LILCO to Long Island Power Authority (LIPA)

As a result of the Long Island Power Act of 1985, the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) was created to assume responsibility for LILCO’s debt, which totaled around $7.3 billion, and the infrastructure. LIPA inherited a vast, but inadequate grid that must be upgraded.

Now, as the AI and data-center revolution demand more and more of our power grid, and new technologies have become available, namely renewables like wind, solar and battery storage, Long Island has the opportunity to transform to a modern, affordable and resilient power grid.

Long Island’s fragile drinking water system

Experts explain what lies beneath the surface, and detail the threats to our crucial aquifers

By JORDAN VALLONE, WILL SHEELINE & ABIGAIL GRIECO of the Herald Community Newspapers

First installment in a series about water.

On Long Island, we’re not talking enough about water.

From the drops coming out of our taps to the waves breaking along both shores, myriad water-related issues have the potential to impact Long Islanders’ day-to-day lives.

The water system is not a single pipeline or policy, but a web of underground aquifers, aging infrastructure, coastal ecosystems — and policymakers — that together determine who has access to clean, affordable water — and who faces the greatest risk when that system begins to fail.

This series will break down how Long Island’s water system works, from aquifers to coastal bays, and clarify how policy, infrastructure and governance shape access to clean, affordable water. It will also examine the environmental pressures facing that system, from contamination and climate change to the health of bays, fisheries and drinking water supplies.

Through global reports that demonstrate the rapid growth of freshwater use over the past century, and interviews with environmental experts and regional advocates who connect these issues locally, this first installment examines what lies beneath the surface: the water we drink, and how contamination and access may disproportionately affect certain communities.

The sole source beneath Long Island

In order to understand Long Island’s relationship with drinking water, it’s essential to understand where the water comes from. The island relies on aquifers, underground layers of sand, gravel and clay that store billions of gallons of water accumulated over tens of millions of years. More specifically, Long Island relies on three: the Upper Glacial, the Magothy and the Lloyd (as well as a fourth, significantly smaller one, the Jameco).

These aquifers together are designated a single-source aquifer system by the Environmental Protection Agency, which means that “your groundwater supply is provided by an aquifer that serves at least 50 percent of your water needs,” according to Sarah Meyland, a former professor at New York Institute of Technology.

Meyland explained that both Nassau and Suffolk counties rely on this single aquifer system for 100 percent of our freshwater, whether it comes from a tap, shower or sprinkler. While this has meant that Long Islanders have had access to clean, easily accessed drinking water for decades, the aquifers, particularly in Nassau County, have one major downside.

“This aquifer needs to be particularly well protected, because if you damage it,

or if you ruin it, you don’t have any other source of water,” Meyland said.

“And that’s exactly the situation Long Island is in. We don’t have a secondary backup source of water.”

Since the federal government began measuring water usage in Long Island’s aquifers in 1900, roughly 5 percent of drinkable water has been consumed or lost due to salinization, the process by which freshwater is turned into saltwater. It occurs in aquifers due to overpumping, as water is taken out faster than it is replaced, causing saltwater from the Long Island Sound and the ocean to fill in the missing volume.

tion of the aquifer system is already nonfunctional, Queens is barely better, and both now get their water from the New York City water system, which pumps freshwater in from upstate. Nassau is well on its way to following them; the difference is there is no municipal entity to bail Nassau out.

as of 2021, the United States withdraws the third-highest amount of freshwater from underground globally, roughly 444.4 billion cubic meters per year.

A key conclusion from the university’s report put the crisis in simple terms: “The world is already in the state of ‘water bankruptcy.’” In many basins and aquifers, long-term overuse and degradation, the report says, means that “hydrological and ecological baselines cannot realistically be restored.”

What areas are more affected?

If Long Island continues on the same path of aquifer depletion without any intervention from state authorities, such as the Department of Environmental Conservation, Meyland said, Nassau County will suffer more than Suffolk within the next 50 years.

“It’s about a third of the size of Suffolk with roughly the same number of people,” she said. “The Town of Brookhaven is the same size as the county of Nassau. So Nassau County will continue to experience saltwater intrusions. That’s going to put pressure on virtually all of the water suppliers along the north and south shore.”

Meyland singled out Long Beach as an area that would likely lose its entire local water supply because of saltwater intrusion to the Lloyd Aquifer, the only aquifer the city draws from.

The vast majority of the used water is consumed by private sprinklers and irrigation systems, many of which are automated to water yards and home gardens. According to Meyland, Long Island has the highest per-capita water use of any community from New York to North Carolina, and the vast majority of that use occurs from spring through fall, when sprinklers turn on and swimming pools fill up.

There is no known way to create new water, or to speed up the natural replenishment process. Desalination plants, which remove salt from water, are becoming more common globally, but they are expensive projects, according to Meyland.

“It’s like a bank account,” Meyland said.

“The water, the money coming in, needs to be at least equal to the money going out.”

Water bankruptcy

While a 5 percent loss may seem inconsequential, the real problem is there’s no way to efficiently and cheaply replenish that loss. And the damage is not evenly distributed: The vast majority of the loss takes place in Brooklyn, Queens and Nassau, which have not effectively stewarded their portions of the aquifers.

Suffolk, which has the lowest population density of the four counties, has proactively monitored and managed its water intake and outflow for years, leaving its portion of the aquifers “a system in balance,” as Meyland described it. She pointed out that Brooklyn’s por-

The issues impacting drinking water supply are not unique to Long Island. According to a report released by the United Nations University last month, the world is entering an “era of global water bankruptcy” — a new, formal definition of a reality for billions of people. The report called for a “fundamental reset” of the global water agenda, as irreversible damage pushes sources of fresh drinking water beyond recovery.

“This report tells an uncomfortable truth: Many regions are living beyond their hydrological means, and many critical water systems are already bankrupt,” said the report’s lead author, Kaveh Madani, the director of the UN University’s Institute for Water, Environment and Health.

Numbers published by Our World In Data, a nonprofit publication that uses data to explain global issues like poverty, disease and climate change, showed that

“They will have already been forced to look for other sources of water, whether they make arrangements from New York City, or they make arrangements and buy water from some of their neighboring water suppliers,” Meyland explained. “I’m sure there will be a lot of pressure to desalinate water, but that will be very expensive.”

On the North Shore of Nassau County, she said, areas of the Great Neck and Manhasset peninsula, including Sands Point, are at risk of losing their supplies of water, also due to salinity. And their options are limited, she added, because some of these communities are already piping water from other parts of Long Island.

Water suppliers are aware of the risk the future holds, Meyland said, but it is unfair to put the burden on them to fix the situation. “They are not at fault for what is happening to the water supply for coastal communities,” she said. And water supplies are not only depleting on Long Island, but they are also contaminated.

The Environmental Working Group affiliated with Citizens Campaign for the Environment, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for stronger environmental policies in New York and Connecticut, released a report in 2025 showing that a least 189 New York water systems — primarily serving residents of Long Island — detected high levels of toxic so-called “forever chemicals,” or PFAS, in tap water.

The report showed that 702,000 residents in Nassau County and 122,200 resi-

Detailing the threats to L.I.’s drinking water

dents of Suffolk have elevated levels of PFAS in their water supplies. Some particularly vulnerable communities include those serviced by the Lynbrookbased Liberty Utilities, the Water Authority of Western Nassau and the Hempstead Town Water District.

What can be done?

According to Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, geography and land use play a major role in why some Long Island communities experience more severe water quality issues than others.

“The biggest driver for water quality in the marine environment is land activity,” Esposito said, noting that polluted stormwater runoff, fertilizer use and marine debris all flow from developed areas into surrounding bays and waterways.

Highly populated and heavily developed regions — particularly along the South Shore — generate greater amounts of runoff, which carries excess nitrogen from lawn fertilizers, bacteria and debris into nearby bays. That nitrogen fuels algae growth, which depletes oxygen levels and can lead to fish kills and damage to shellfish populations.

Aging infrastructure in some coastal communities continues to pose challenges. Esposito pointed to the Long Beach’s sewage treatment plant, which discharg-

es roughly 5 million gallons of wastewater per day into Nassau County’s Western Bays. While the wastewater is treated, Esposito said the facility is old and in need of major repairs.

The Western Bays have been among the most degraded areas, in part due to decades of treated sewage discharges and runoff from surrounding communities. Marine debris, including plastic bottles, cigarette butts and food packaging, often originates farther inland, and makes its way through tributaries before washing into coastal waters, Esposito said.

On the North Shore, in areas that still rely on septic systems, groundwater contamination presents another challenge, as pollutants can leach directly into aquifers and nearby waterways.

Esposito pointed to several major policy changes that have reshaped how New York addresses water contamination, particularly by emerging chemicals like PFAS and 1,4-dioxane.

result of years of advocacy and scientific review.

In addition to regulating water systems themselves, Esposito highlighted a first-of-its-kind state law, passed in 2019, that limited the amount of 1,4-dioxane allowed in common household and personal care products. The law was phased in over several years and was fully implemented in 2023, reducing the amount of chemicals entering wastewater systems in the first place.

AdrIenne d’esposIto Executive director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment

She noted that the state now has some of the nation’s strongest drinking water standards for these chemicals — standards that are fully implemented across Long Island’s public water systems, the

Esposito also emphasized the importance of preventing pollution at its source, rather than relying on expensive treatment systems after contamination occurs. Citizens Campaign has spent several years advocating for legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste, a significant contributor to marine debris found in Long Island’s bays and waterways.

One of the most significant steps underway is the long-awaited redirection of treated sewage from the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility, in Bay Park, away from the Western Bays and into the Cedar Creek ocean outfall pipe — a nearly $600 million project more than a decade in the making. The change is expected to dramatically improve

water quality in the Western Bays once the Bay Park Conveyance Project is completed.

At the local and state level, municipalities are also tapping into grant programs designed to reduce stormwater pollution. These initiatives fund upgrades to stormwater systems, filtration devices that remove nitrogen and bacteria before runoff reaches waterways. Environmental organizations, including Citizens Campaign, Operation SPLASH and the Nature Conservancy have played a key role in advocating for these measures through long-term collaboration and public pressure.

Looking ahead, Citizens Campaign plans to launch a new marine debris prevention campaign this spring, focused on public education and outreach, emphasizing that litter discarded anywhere on Long Island can ultimately end up in coastal waters. The organization is also continuing its push in Albany for legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste and monitoring contaminants entering waterways through wastewater systems.

Residents can make a difference, Esposito said, by limiting fertilizer use, properly disposing of trash and supporting redevelopment over construction on green spaces.

“We encourage people to get up, show up and speak up,” she said. “If you want to protect our waters and public health, sometimes you have to speak out.”

Carnevale celebration highlights Italian heritage

Partygoers gathered Sunday to celebrate an Italian Carnevale tradition, featuring live performances by Sogna Santana singing in Italian, a performance by Miss Edie’s Dance School, and music by a live DJ. Councilman Thomas Muscarella and Legislator John Giuffre were also in attendance, showing their support for the Franklin Square chapter of the Sons and Daughters of Italy.

The chapter holds an installation ceremony every 2 years to welcome both new and returning leaders. This year marks 54 years since the chapter’s founding and its 27th installation, which is scheduled for March 18.

Although this is only the second year the chapter has hosted the Carnevale event, members hope to continue the tradition. “A lot of people seem to really enjoy it,” said chapter president Joe Armocida.

–Hailey Fulmer

Students recognized for exceptional spelling

During the board of education meeting on Jan. 27, Sewanhaka Central High School District proudly recognized five middle school students for demonstrating exceptional skill, composure and enthusiasm throughout this year’s Scripps Spelling Bee competitions.

Ex officio board member Adam Abdullah, a junior at New Hyde Park Memorial High School, helped to begin the meeting, sharing recent districtwide highlights during the Student Report, including seventh grade orientation programs, the Nassau County Math Tournament and an Athletic Leadership Academy with Lamar Lee. Attention then turned to the spelling bee champions. Beginning at the classroom level, winners advanced to a schoolwide competition and now have the chance to compete in the regional Scripps Spelling Bee in February. Congratulations to Elmont Memorial High School eighth grader Ositadinma UcheKonkwo, Floral Park Memorial High School seventh grader Marcus Pena, H. Frank Carey High School seventh grader Ryan Fayad, New Hyde Park Memorial High School eighth grader Chris -

tian Mathew and Sewanhaka High School eighth grader Momina Ali.

“Their poise, preparation and com-

mand of complex vocabulary exemplify the intellectual curiosity we strive to cultivate in all learners,” Superinten -

STEPPING OUT

Big game, big flavor

Score from kickoff to crunch time

By Karen Bloom

It’s the biggest sports day of the year — and a perfect excuse to throw a bash that’s almost as exciting as the game itself. The Super Bowl on Sunday isn’t just about touchdowns, commercials and the halftime show: it’s about friends, fun and food that’s worth a victory dance.

Sure, the game on the big screen is the main event, but let’s be honest — some of the best plays happen around the snack table. Wings, dips, even desserts are all part of the strategy to keep your fans happy (and maybe even sneak a second helping before halftime). When it comes to dessert, fuss-free is the way to go. An array of cookies, brownies and dessert bars will satisfy the sweet tooth. You can take your dessert table to the next level by icing your treats in team colors. Here’s your playbook for scoring big with game-day treats that’ll make your party a championship-worthy hit.

West Bank Wings

No football party is complete without a generous serving of wings. Try these Asianinspired chicken wings, with a spicy Creole twist.

• 3 pounds chicken wing pieces

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 2 teaspoons Creole Seasoning

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup cane syrup or molasses

• 1/4 cup ZATARAIN’S® Creole Mustard

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic

• 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• Chopped fresh cilantro

• Sesame seeds

Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss chicken wings with oil and Creole Seasoning in large bowl. Arrange wings in single layer on foil-lined large shallow baking pan.

Bake 35 minutes or until wings are cooked through and skin is crisp.

Mix remaining ingredients, except cilantro and sesame seeds, in large skillet. Bring to boil on high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer about 15 minutes or until sauce is reduced by a third and is a “syrup” consistency. Add wings; toss to coat with sauce. Transfer wings to serving

platter. Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Cajun Buffalo Wings

Here’s another zesty take on the footballwatching favorite.

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken wing pieces

• 1/2 cup any flavor Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce

• 1/3 cup ketchup

• 2 tsp. Cajun seasoned spice blend

Bake wings in foil-lined pan at 500 °F on lowest oven rack for 20 to 25 minutes until crispy, turning once.

Mix Buffalo Wings Sauce, ketchup and spice blend.

Toss wings in sauce to coat.

Tip: You may substitute 1/2 cup Red Hot Sauce mixed with 1/3 cup melted butter for the Wings Sauce.

Alternate cooking directions: Deep-fry at 375°F for 10 minutes or broil 6-inches from heat 15 to 20 minutes turning once.

Blazin’ Buffalo Potato Skins

This the ideal game day snack! Seriously, it’s a crowd pleaser.

• 3 pounds small russet potatoes

• Olive oil cooking spray

• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat or regular Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken

• 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce

• 1/2 cup chopped Blue Diamond Smokehouse

• Almonds

• 1/2 cup light sour cream

• 1/4 cup sliced green onion tops

Preheat oven to 450 F and line baking sheet with foil.

Rinse potatoes and pat dry; pierce with fork or sharp knife. Place in large microwave-safe bowl; cover and microwave high for 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft when gently squeezed. Remove and let cool slightly.

Cut in half and scoop out potato leaving 1/4inch rim of potato inside skin. Place on prepared baking sheet and spray both sides of potato skins liberally with cooking spray; bake for 15 minutes to crisp.

Billy Stritch and Friends celebrate Judy Garland

Sprinkle equal amounts of cheese into each skin. Stir together chicken and wing sauce and spoon over cheese. Top with almonds and bake for 5 minutes more. Add dollop of sour cream to each and sprinkle with green onions. Serve with and additional wing sauce, if desired. Makes 6-8 servings.

Sweet Chili Meatballs

Round out your lineup with this tasty addition to your game day spread.

• 1 pound lean ground turkey or ground beef

• 1/3 cup Japanese panko crumbs or bread crumbs

• ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 12 ounces Frank’s RedHot Sweet Chili Sauce, divided

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Mix ground meat, panko crumbs, cilantro, green onion, ginger, egg, salt and 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce. Form into one-inch meatballs. Place meatballs on lightly greased baking sheets.

Bake 20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Put meatballs in slow cooker or Dutch oven to keep warm, pour remaining sweet chili sauce over meatballs. Gently stir to coat meatballs and serve.

Bacon Avocado Dip

Game day requires guacamole. Try a new twist on the must-have dip.

• 1 large avocado, peeled and mashed

• 1/2 tomato, seeded and chopped

• 1/3 cup Blue Diamond Jalapeno Smokehouse

• Almonds, chopped

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 3 strips cooked bacon, roughly chopped

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• Salt and pepper, to taste

In small bowl, mix all ingredients. Serve with tortilla chips or other favorite dippers, such as carrots, bell peppers and broccoli.

Judy on TV! This concert shines a long-overdue spotlight on a unique chapter of Garland’s legendary career: her 1963–64 CBS television series. It’s a look at Garland’s iconic talent through the lens of her landmark 1963-64 weekly television broadcasts. Renowned entertainer and music director Billy Stritch leads this dazzling tribute that brings together a stellar lineup of jazz and Broadway favorites including acclaimed vocalists Gabrielle Stravelli and Nicolas King. The Judy Garland Show lasted only nine months and the star saw its cancellation as a devastating failure. Stritch sees it much differently, noting that the show’s 26 hours of concert material capture a crucial era of her life and legacy as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. These terrific performers revive the unforgettable music, intimate moments and sheer star power that defined the show.

Saturday, Feb. 7, 8 p.m. $58, $48, $38. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Feel the beat with Step Afrika!

The acclaimed dance company visits Hofstra University with a high-octane performance, Step Afrika! 101. Since its 1994 founding, Step Afrika! has been recognized as a cultural ambassador for this percussive dance tradition rooted in African American communities and historically linked to Black Greek-letter organizations. Their signature style fuses precise footwork and rhythmic movement with contemporary African dance, AfroBeats and popular music, in a powerful celebration of culture and community. Everyone is encouraged to clap, stomp, and join in calland-response moments that make the show feel as communal as it is electric. In keeping with Step Afrika!’s emphasis on service and community, it’s requested to bring non-perishable food items or basic toiletries to benefit the Hofstra Pantry and the Mary Brennan INN.

Sunday, Feb. 8, 3:30-5 p.m. Free admission. John Cranford Adams Playhouse, South Campus, Hempstead. For more information, visit hofstra.edu/academics/culturalcenter or call (516) 463-5669 or email hofculctr@hofstra.edu.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

FEB

7

Jazz & Soul Live!

Join Cody Childs and His Trio to celebrate Black History Month at Elmont Library. The concert honors artists such as Nat King Cole, Arthea Franklin, Roberta Flack, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, and more! Registration is not required and entrance is free.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2-3 p.m.

• Contact: elmontlibrary.org or (516)-354-5280

‘Inside Out’

Headquarter Hats

Join in some creative fun relating to Long Island Children’s Museum new exhibit. Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out” focuses on Riley’s emotions Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Come explore your many emotions and craft an interchangeable hat to display which emotion is “in charge” throughout the day at the drop-in program.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m., also Feb. 8

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

FEB

8

‘So

don’t stop me now’

Super Bowl Party at Plattduetsche

Catch the biggest game of the year on a big screen in the beer hall! Enjoy an open bar and buffet. Tickets are required.

• Where: 1132 Hempstead Turnpike

• Time: 5 p.m.

• Contact: parkrestaurant.com or (516) 354-3131

FEB

10

5th/6th Grade Book

Discussion

Kids are invited to a book discussion along with some yummy snacks and another fun activity at Franklin Square Library.

• Where: 19 Lincoln Road

• Time: 6-7 p.m.

• Contact: FranklinSquarePL.org or (516) 481-3444

FEB 11

Breast cancer workshop

Sisters United in Health hold a session at Franklin Square Public Library. The presentation illustrates the truths and myths of breast cancer, along with how to reduce risk. Join for an interactive and conversational

FEB

17

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 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: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.: also Feb. 18-20

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

Grievance Workshop

• Time: 8 p.m.

Queen-mania rolls on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages with an unforgettable concert experience. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music. The carefully curated setlist featuring Queen’s best-loved songs, like “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” and “Radio Ga Ga,” along with lesser known tracks. And of course, no Queen tribute concert would be complete without classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more.

presentation that empowers women to take charge of their own health.

• Where: 19 Lincoln Road

• Time: 1-2 p.m.

• Contact: FranklinSquarePL.org or (516) 481-3444

Black History: Unsung Heroes of Baseball

Join Howard Rosenberg at Franklin Square Public Library for an informative lecture. Learn about the historical homeruns on and off the baseball field including the first African American major league player Moses Fleetwood Walker, social justice advocate and Negro League player Octavius Valentine Catto.

• Where: 19 Lincoln Road

• Time: 7-8 p.m.

• Contact: FranklinSquarePL.org or (516) 481-3444

Book talk

Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House press secretary and senior advisor to President Joseph R. Biden Jr., visits Hofstra University to discuss her two books published last year, “Moving Forward: A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and the Promise of America” and “Independent: A Look

Inside a Broken White House Outside the Party Lines.” Copies of both books will be available for purchase, and her talk will be followed by a book signing. Advance registration is required.

• Where: John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hofstra University South Campus, Hempstead

• Time: 11:15 a.m.- 2:45 p.m.

• Contact: events.hofstra.edu to RSVP

FEB

14

Lunar New Year program

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes Chinese Theatre Works to the museum stage. Join in a celebration of the Lunar New Year with an original “budaixi” glove puppet production that features the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac. This year’s show stars the Horse, who presides over a jolly selection of wild puppet skits, dances, popular songs, and well known Chinese sayings that celebrate the wit and wisdom of the zodiac animals. Hao Bang Ah! Horse! A hands-on post show demonstration will make the Chinese bilingual cultural experience accessible to even the youngest audience members. $5, $4 members, $10 theater only.

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m..

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

FEB 16

Pete’s Blue Carpet

Catwalk

Walk the blue carpet as a VIP to celebrate Long Island Children’s Museum’s premiere performance of Pete the Cat! Dress your best, smile for the paparazzi, and take a picture with Pete! A special youth emcee will be interviewing VIPs on camera. Gain exclusive access to Pete’s Groovy Lounge for refreshments, enjoy the opening day performance of the show and take home a fun swag bag! You’ll even get to meet the cast after the show! For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. Join Jimmy and Pete on an adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW bus! $16 ($14 members), $20 theater and catwalk experience only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Starting at 11:30 a.m.

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

18

Legislator Carrié Solages and assessment expert Jeff Gold host a free assessment grievance workshop at Elmont Memorial Library. Gold explains how to navigate the online grievance process and how to dispute.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: Contact: elmontlibrary. org or (516)-354-528 or (516) 571-6203 FEB

FEB

21

Harlem Globetrotters

100 Year Tour

The Harlem Globetrotters are going up against the Washington Generals, back for a 100-year anniversary, at Nassau Coliseum. Don’t miss autographs from your favorite players and other fun-filled interactions.

• Where: 1255 Hempstead Tpke. , Uniondale

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that I shall, commencing on February 17, 2026, sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on real estate herein-after described, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party-ininterest in such real estate shall pay to the County Treasurer by February 12, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges, against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 per cent per six month’s period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 17, 2026 lien sale, Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/ County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February, 2026 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

The liens are for arrears of School District taxes for the year 2024 - 2025 and/or County, Town, and Special District taxes for the year 2025. The following is a partial listing of the real estate located in school district number(s) 16, 17 in the Town of Hempstead only, upon which tax liens are to be sold, with a brief description of the same by reference to the County Land and Tax Map, the name of the owner or occupant as the same appears on the 2024/2025 tentative assessment roll, and the total amount of such unpaid taxes.

IMPORTANT

THE NAMES OF OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2024/2025 TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER. TOwN OF HEMPSTEAd SCHOOL:16 ELMONT UFSd

COHN H 1,066.22

32476 00170 US BANK NATIONAL ASSN 10,379.26

32480 00230 23-25

HOMAYRA CORP 14,897.24

32480 00570 57-58

CASTILLO RICARDO 6,224.80

32481 00420 42-43

KRAMER LYNNE 12,290.92

32487 01040

LEVINE MARTHA 2,415.03

32489 00240

MALIK HENRYK & SEUBERT KIRK 17,321.54

32491 00010 1-2

SECURE YOUR HOME INC 14,368.86

32492 00090 9-10

LIANTONIO VICTOR 2,968.12

32496 00200 20-21

LICATA ANTHONY & JOAN 5,533.66

32497 00800 80-81,122

SHAHS INVEST GROUP INC 20,398.55

32502 00180 18-20

CALBO KRISTINA 14,928.28

32504 01250

SINGH SATNAM 17,414.77

32505 00290 29-30

KHAN FAHEEM & RIZWAN AKBAR 6,255.05

32505 00450 45-47

WILSON PAUL & JEAN 4,023.09

32505 00700 70-71

MILITANA ANGELINA 3,706.40

32505 00830 83-85

LAIRD NEWELL 15,166.79

32506 00190 19-20

ROMERO PABLO E & SALAS MICHELLE 3,176.43

32507 00260 26-27

REILLY MATTHEW & ALICE 3,859.89

32507 00480 48-50

HAHN R & E 2,181.14

32507 00600 60-61

SCARPELLI ALBERT & KATHLEEN 12,381.59

32508 00010 1-4

TOLOMEO ETAL PAOLO 13,995.87

32511 00290 29-30,228

INCORVAIA ANTHONY & SOFIE 2,693.72

32511 00440 44-45

JAKUC ARLINE TRUST 1,944.46

32512 00590 59-61

SINGH PARAMJEET 13,460.48

32514 00140 14-15

ALTEON C MONDESIR,SIMONE 2,419.99

32514 00720 72-74

REINHARDT L E M FEARRINGTON, G 12,535.09

32518 00200 20-22

BARATTA JOSEPH & MARY 10,020.09

32521 01250

PIERRE MYRLANDE 8,129.98

32522 01710

TOLOMEO PAUL 14,368.86

32533 00210 21-23

TOLOMEO PAOLO & CATERINA 20,212.05

32533 00240 24-25

ROSSER AVE LLC 2,992.29

32538 00010 1-2

CORTESIANO VITO F & ARRIGO ANNA 15,534.29

32556 00070 7-9

ROZZA ANTONIA TRUST 2,143.06

32558 00240 24-25

CUNSOLO LE E MUNDA ETAL, J 5,445.46

32558 00390 39-41

RANA HAMMAD & SARFARAZ 6,847.90

32559 02050

CIRIELLO JOSEPH 620.36

32559 03300

FINI FRANCO & ANGELO 9,780.48

32560 00190 19-21

CRISAFULLI HARRY 1,077.71

32567 00440 44-45

TAPPY CHRISTOPHER & NANCY 5,613.61

32568 00180 18-19, 121 RM HOLDINGS I LLC 10,534.32

32570 00010 1-7

1 RAILROAD PLACE LLC 21,322.01

32574 00010 1-6

BISSASSAR DEONARINE 13,333.40

32574 00300 30-33

SINAGRA GABRIEL 2,549.27

32575 00900

PHEASANT RUN BUYING GROUP LLC 6,345.68

32577 00580 58-62

QUENSTER INC 9,422.70

32581 01080

POSA FRANK & MUNACO III FRANK A 5,106.25

32582 00070 7-8

TOLOMEO

Public Notices

Continued from previous page

37549 00050

00090

37562 00120

LEEMILTS PETROLEUM

35077 00540 LIMA THOMAS & LIMA ELENI & LIMA 13,781.99

35102 00420 42-43

TORREGROSSA JOSEPH & CHRISTINE 2,547.85

35104 01780

944 FENWORTH BLVD LLC 3,105.92

35112 01360

TOLOMEO PAUL 13,468.78

35131 01100 110 & 309

GENNARELLI VINCENT & JOAN 7,537.89

35135 00290

MECCIO ALFRED & CESARINA 17,018.75

35135 00510

AMARAIN GIOVANNA & JAVIER 3,575.31

35135 00780

KOKOT GERMANO 12,404.42

35139 00070 7-10

302 LINCOLN STREET LLC 12,268.03

35142 01310

FRANCOIS VICTOR & DONNA L 14,063.39

35145 00280 28-30

VARGAS JASON D 6,861.04

35150 00180 18-22

DREXLER ROBERT 19,420.23

35159 00210

TOMASELLI STEPHEN & JEAN M 3,275.80

35161 00790

CLEARY DENNIS & VIRGINIA 13,101.44

35161 01020

SINGH SUJAN 400.26

35162 00530

LABATE ANTONIO & CONCETTA 958.19

35162 05070

LISI JERRY 68,350.99

35170 00030 3-4

BOSTROM GLORIA N 14,500.13

35174 00660 66-67

ERNST RICHARD A & LORRAINE E LI 11,144.73

35178 01330

STRANGE CRG 12,233.45

35182 01570

CASATELLI FRANK & THERESA 14,315.76

35183 01010

BAHR MARIANNE 2,441.19

35185 00200 20-21

COSGROVE JAMES & CAROL 3,220.79

35186 01250

ION DANIEL & ANTOINETTE 7,826.12

35187 00010 1-5

SULKER OYA 2,756.24

35187 00550 55-57

LACERENZA DENISE & LACERENZA DA 15,045.75

35202 00380

KRYSIEWICZ TRUST 3,348.76

35202 00410

RUTKOWSKI JOAN MARIE 15,536.47

35294 04760 476-478

STERN EUGENE & PHYLLIS 12,224.31

35297 00810

HUGHES JACQUELINE F 11,177.61

35303 00240

STUMPF JOHN E 13,054.89

35303 01240

JARNAIL RITE GLASS LLC 6,184.37

35470 05320

SULTAN LEON 35,513.27

35470 05330

EFRAMAR ENTERPRISES LLC 18,486.09

35485 02190

SPATOLA TOMMASO & ANGELA 2,865.99

35491 00050

PUCCIO PAUL (TRUST) 3,322.24

35511 00300

COLETTA MICHELE & FILOMENA 7,594.65

35529 00310

CUETO EDUARDO & ELISA & 6,903.96

35547 00190

STRANGE CARL & SUSAN 14,553.05

35548 00270

NJCC-NYS CRF REO SUBSIDIARY LLC 10,073.84

35609 00240

KHAN FAWAD & RAZEIA 4,630.47

35616 00040

FUSCO ELLEN & JOSEPH M 13,833.25

35623 00320

CAHILL JAMES & PATRICIA 15,075.15

35628 00100

HARRIS DANIEL & ELEANOR 8,866.11

35628 00120

Terms of sale

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldier’s and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts.

However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), 12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et. seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.

The rate of interest and penalty which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten percent of the amount from which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety percent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety percent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten percent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase be of no further effect.

Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1.The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2.The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3.The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4.If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made, in connection with, said bid shall be forfeited.

This list includes only tax liens on real estate located in Town of Hempstead. Such other tax liens on real estate are advertised as follows:

Town of HempsTead

Dist 1001

Dist 1003

Public Notices

UNIONDALE BEACON

EAST MEADOW HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST

Dist 1004

1023

Dist 1024

BELLMORE HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST Dist 1005

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 1006

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN

WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN Dist 1007

BELLMORE HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST Dist 1008

BALDWIN HERALD

HEMPSTEAD BEACON,

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST Dist 1009

FREEPORT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

Dist 1010

Dist 1011

Dist 1012

Dist 1013

Dist 1014

Dist 1015

Dist 1016

BALDWIN HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

OCEANSIDE TRIBUNE

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU HERALD (FIVE TOWNS)

NEW YORK POST

FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE

JEWISH STAR

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST Dist 1017

FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

Dist 1018

NEW YORK POST

GARDEN CITY NEWS

GARDEN CITY TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST Dist 1019

EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE

LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROCKAWAY JOURNAL Dist 1020

EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE

LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD Dist 1021

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW

NASSAU

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN

WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

Dist 1025

Dist 1026

Dist 1027

Dist 1028

Dist 1029

Dist 1030

Dist 1031

Dist 1201

Dist 1205

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

LONG BEACH HERALD

LONG BEACH TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

ISLAND PARK TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

EAST MEADOW HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Town of norTh hempsTead

Dist 2001

Dist 2002

Dist 2003

Dist 2004

Dist 2005

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

BNH

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROSLYN NEWS TIMES

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Dist 2006

Dist 2007

Dist 2009

Dist 2010

Dist 2122

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Dist 2301

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 2315

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

Town of oysTer Bay

Dist 3001

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 3002

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEA CLIFF - GLEN HEAD HERALD

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 3003

Dist 3004

Dist 3006

Dist 3008

Dist 3009

Dist 3011

Dist 3012

Dist 3013

Dist 3014

Dist 3015

Dist 3017

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS

GREAT NECK NEWS RECORD

JEWISH STAR

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

Dist 2011

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - N. MASSAPEQUA THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3019

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST Dist 3020

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3021

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3022

MASSAPEQUA POST NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

YORK POST SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - FARMINGDALE THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3023

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

HICKSVILLE/LEVITTOWN TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

Dist 3018

MASSAPEQUA POST MID-ISLAND TIMES NASSAU

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities.

Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in braille, large print, audio tape other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 13715.

February 05, 2026

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. KIM

BUBANJ AKA KIM

FRANCES BUBANJ, AS POSSIBLE EXECUTRIX AND AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BETH ANN OCANDO AKA

BETHANN OCANDO, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 19, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1132 Norbay Street, Franklin Square, NY 11010. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 35, Block 26 and Lot 335. Approximate amount of judgment is $757,623.52 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 003632/2016.

Chad A. Lupinacci, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157786

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Freedom Mortgage Corporation, Plaintiff AGAINST Estate of Douglas Palma, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 26, 2025, 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 February 18, 2026 at 2:30 PM premises known as 49 Mckee Street, Floral Park, NY 11001. 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: 8, BLOCK: 77, LOT: 62-63. Approximate amount of judgment is $497,030.37 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609763/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Elisa Strassler Rosenthal, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-096515-F01 88315 157750

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff against NANCY ROTCHFORD, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 3, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 20, 2026 at 3:30 PM. Premises known as 730 Ash Street, Franklin Square, NY 11010. Sec 33 Block 596 Lot 282. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Unincorporated Village of Munson, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $416,554.08 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 611471/2023. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not

limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Dominick R. Dale, Esq., Referee File # NY202000000829-2 157926

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

WILMINGTON

SAVINGS FUND

SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, -againstSARA VAZQUEZGUERRERO, 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 November 12, 2025, wherein WILMINGTON

SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and SARA VAZQUEZ-GUERRERO, 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 February 25, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 716 NORTH ASCAN STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification:

32-700-20. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610277/2023. Lee A. Schwartz, 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. 157928

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 RCAF Acquisition Trust, Plaintiff AGAINST 1803 Fairfax Street LLC, Colin Cohen, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 26, 2025, 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 February 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 1803 Fairfax Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 443, Lots 11 & 12. Approximate amount of judgment $599,621.68 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604302/2024. Brian Davis, Esq., Referee McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 420 Lexington Avenue-Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 23-14514NY

88395 157862

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC; Plaintiff v. JOAN NEWBY; et al.;

Defendants

Attorney for Plaintiff: Hasbani & Light, P.C., 450 7th Ave, Suite 1901, NY, NY 10123; (212) 643-6677

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale granted herein on 11/10/2025, I will sell at Public Auction to the highest bidder at the Nassau Supreme Court, located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 24, 2026, at 2:00 PM

Premises known as 135 Barbara Street, Elmont, NY 11003

Section: 32 Block: 676 Lot: 5

All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York.

As more particularly described in the judgment of foreclosure and sale. Sold subject to the terms and conditions contained in said judgment and terms of sale.

Approximate amount of judgment:

$722,110.39 plus interest and costs.

Docket Number: 603366/2024

Tara Mayerhofer, Esq., Referee 157924

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

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2006-AM3, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-AM3, -againstSHARON SPERANZA, 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 December 5,

2019, wherein U.S. BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2006-AM3, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-AM3 is the Plaintiff and SHARON SPERANZA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 5, 2026 at 2:30PM, premises known as 247 PASCHAL AVE, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010; and the following tax map identification: 33-308-52 & 53. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT FRANKLIN SQUARE, 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.: 011081/2013. Janine T. Lynam, 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. 158029

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DITECH FINANCIAL LLC, -againstMERITUS MALIVERT, 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 July 18, 2018, wherein DITECH FINANCIAL LLC is the Plaintiff and MERITUS MALIVERT, ET AL. are

the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 5, 2026 at 2:30PM, premises known as 83 NORFOLK DRIVE WEST, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 37Q18-13. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN AT ELMONT, 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.: 001512/2012. Janine T. Lynam, 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. 158031

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION ONE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-FXD1, Plaintiff - againstNICHOLAS M. DELAPO A/K/A NICHOLAS DELAPO, et al Defendant(s).

Approximate amount of lien $1,386,754.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 002989/2017. Jaime D. Ezratty, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: December 30, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 157995

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU SHERESE WOODLEYBENDER and SHARON WOODLEY, Plaintiffs, against THOMAS L. BENDER, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, Defendants. Pursuant to an Interlocutory Judgment of Partition and Sale entered on February 20, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at a public auction on the North Side steps of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. on February 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Said premises known as 1378 Madison Street, Elmont, New York, 11003. (Section: 32 Block: 303 Lot: 136).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on December 19, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 27th day of February, 2026 at 2:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York. Premises known as 59 Willow Street, Floral Park, NY 11001. (Section: 32, Block: 510, Lot: 34 & 35)

February 5, 2026

Public Notices

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Interlocutory Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index No. 614753/2021

Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee.

The Law Office of Ronald J. Ferraro, PLLC, Attorney(s) for Plaintiff, P.O. Box 1729 Mineola, New York 11501 516-459-3576

The property is being sold “as is” in all respects (physical condition and from title perspective), except to extent stated in Judgment. 158025

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York:

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a resolution was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York at a special meeting thereof held on January 27, 2026, subject to Permissive Referendum as provided by Town Law.

An abstract of the resolution is as follows: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, shall expend monies for the purchase of radio communication equipment and related accessories in an amount not to exceed seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500.00). Said funds to be expended from Capital Reserve for Equipment Repair and Replacement as authorized by Section 6-g of the General Municipal Law. This resolution shall take effect 30 days from the date hereof, unless within 30 days a valid petition, as provided for in the Town Law is filed with the Fire District Secretary requesting a Permissive Referendum.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Attest: Kerry Santina District Secretary January 29, 2026 158207

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York at a special meeting thereof held on January 27, 2026, subject to Permissive Referendum as provided by Town Law.

An abstract of the resolution is as follows: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, shall expend monies for the replacement and installation of an emergency light tower and related equipment in an amount not to exceed thirty thousand dollars ($30,000.00).

Said funds to be expended from Capital Reserve for Equipment Repair and Replacement as authorized by Section 6-g of the General Municipal Law. This resolution shall take effect 30 days from the date hereof, unless within 30 days a valid petition, as provided for in the Town Law is filed with the Fire District Secretary requesting a Permissive Referendum.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Attest: Kerry Santina District Secretary January 29, 2026 158208

Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York at a special meeting thereof held on January 27, 2026, subject to Permissive Referendum as provided by Town Law.

An abstract of the resolution is as follows:

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, shall expend monies for the replacement and installation of the Rackmount Server and related equipment in an amount not to exceed, sixty thousand dollars ($60,000.00). Said funds to be expended from Capital Reserve for Equipment Repair and Replacement as authorized by Section 6-g of the General Municipal Law. This resolution shall take effect 30 days from the date hereof, unless within 30 days a valid petition, as provided for in the Town Law is filed with the Fire District Secretary requesting a Permissive Referendum.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Attest: Kerry Santina District Secretary January 29, 2026 158209

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 11-2026

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 27th day of January 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 11-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly

adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 11-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include & repealing “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: January 27, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 158192

LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO. 21527

RESOLUTION NO. 84-2026

Adopted: January 27, 2026

Councilmember Muscarella offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 73-2026, adopted January 13, 2026 a public hearing was duly held on the 27th day of January, 2026, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the

following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:

EAST ATLANTIC BEACH

MOHAWK AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 240 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 16 feet.

(TH-616/25)

ELMONT

237th STREET - east side, starting at a point 118 feet north of the north curbline of 116th Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-641/25)

TERRACE AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 495 feet south of the south curbline of Atherton Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-644/25)

GARDEN CITY SOUTH

WHITEHALL ROAD

SOUTH - east side, starting at a point of 285 feet south of the south curbline of Ardsley Boulevard, south for a distance of 22 feet.

(TH-605/25)

ROOSEVELT

RONALD PLACE - east side, starting at a point 459 feet south of the south curbline of East Fulton Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-597/25)

UNIONDALE

LAWRENCE STREETwest side, starting at a point 269 feet south of the south curbline of Westbury Boulevard, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-596/25)

SOUTHERN PARKWAYnorthside, starting at a point 455 feet west of the west curbline of Uniondale Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-625/25)

WANTAGH

BAYVIEW AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 187 feet north of the north curbline of St. Regis Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-599/25)

WOODBINE AVENUE -

south side, starting at a point 340 feet west of the west curbline of Express Way, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-600/25)

WEST HEMPSTEAD BARBARA LANE - west side, starting at a point 213 feet south of the south curbline of White Star Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-608/25) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

FRANKLIN SQUARE THIRD AVENUE - north side, starting at a point 84 feet east of the east curbline of Fourth Street, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-35/11 - 6/14/11)

(TH-592/25) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting. The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Schneider and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SIX (6) NOES: NONE (0) 158200

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-AR27, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-AR27, -againstMARIA RODRIGUEZ, 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 November 14, 2025, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-AR27, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-AR27 is the Plaintiff and MARIA RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 11, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1311 MCCLURE AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-578-78 & 87. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD NASSAU COUNTY, STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 609890/2019. Brian J. Davis, 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. 158219

Place

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau M&T Bank Successor By Merger To Hudson City Savings Bank, FSB, Plaintiff AGAINST Christina Soprano as Executrix to the Estate of William H. Penn a/k/a William Penn, Jr. a/k/a William Henry Penn, Jr. a/k/a William H. Penn, Jr., et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated entered on December 8, 2025, 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 March 9, 2026 at 2:30 PM premises known as 86 Gotham Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. 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: 32, BLOCK: 431, LOT: 54-55, 56-57, & 58. Approximate amount of judgment is $220,936.73 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 610583/2024. L inda Agnew, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-097084-F00 88460 158159

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of 11 Cubed LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/26/26 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 222 Doris Avenue, Franklin Square, NY 11010. Purpose: any lawful act. 158223

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com

E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.

Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

Compliance Operations Manager., Hempstead, NY. Bachelor+ 1 yr. exp. Salary $71,947yr. Email res. to; eromosele@iyaho.org

Iyaho Social Services Inc.

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

Network & Computer Systems Admin., Hempstead, NY. Bachelor + 1 yr. exp. Salary $79,331yr. Email res. to; eromosele@iyaho.org Iyaho Social Services Inc.

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Health Care/Opportunities

HEALTHCARE WORKER with 40Yrs Experience is Seeking Position Caring for Your Loved One 516-640-4204

HomesHERALD

Hewlett Harbor

A House You'll Call Home

Welcome to this beautifully updated and spacious 5-bedroom, 3 full bath expanded Ranch in Hewlett Harbor! The most desirable section of the Five Towns! Low taxes, no Sandy damage and no flood insurance required! Step into an atmosphere enhanced by brand-new wall-to-wall windows that fill every room with natural light and custom-built blinds. The primary bedroom offers a private ensuite bath with a triple door closet. The eat-in kitchen is newly renovated with gorgeous countertops, modern new appliances, a wine cooler, and a butler’s pantry with additional counter space for effortless entertaining. A mudroom with ample storage provides the perfect spot to keep seasonal and holiday items neatly organized and out of the way. There are two additional updated bathrooms, new air conditioning and gleaming hardwood floors flow throughout the home. The second floor is a private oasis, complete with two bedrooms and a full bath, and a stand-up attic for extra storage. The outside is beautifully landscaped with oversized fenced-in backyard. There is plenty of room for a pool, hot tub, outdoor fireplace, swing set, and even a basketball hoop. The ultimate space for entertainment and relaxation. Enjoy new siding, a newer roof under 10 years old, freshly installed pavers, and a beautiful patio that’s perfect for gatherings or outdoor relaxation under the stars. Well water for sprinklers. Don't miss the opportunity to make it your Home sweet Home! Schedule your private tour to view this beauty.

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate

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O:

Signature Premier Properties 75 Seamens Ave Rockville Centre, NY 11570

How do

we keep our home livable during renovations?

Q. Do you have any suggestions on how we can guarantee our house won’t be damaged while we have a renovation done? We’re doing a lot of work to add a back family room and a second floor. Our house is a cape that already has a second floor, but we want a full second floor. Everyone we spoke to called it a dormer, but we read your column in which you clarified that a dormer is pushed out through the current roof and a second floor is the whole thing, so we know. We want to stay on the first floor, and even though we’ll get a POD for the driveway, we’re concerned about staying on the first floor. The contractor showed us the plastic curtains he uses, but is there anything else? Our daughter has asthma, and we’re very concerned.

A. It’s tough to guarantee that dust won’t get in, since there are many ways dust travels and the average home, without any air filtration, usually get dusty, anyway. I have seen countless projects with zippered air curtain separations, sealed at the walls, floors and ceilings — even double curtains separated by 4 feet to create a vestibule, with a fan drawing air to the outside just before people open the first zipper. This is called a negative air method, and the fan should only be turned on when someone is about to enter the vestibule from the clean side, because if the fan is left on, it’s drawing air from the dusty side to the clean side.

Several clients purchased boxes of disposable booties to slip over shoes to keep from tracking in dust and dirt. If you have carpeting or just want to protect your finished floors, it’s best to have the walking paths covered in plywood and heavy plastic. Lift the plastic and fold inward to discard periodically, or vacuum with a brush attachment so as not to suck up the plastic. Also, if the path is highly trafficked, it will tear and may be slippery from the booties and dust, so monitor the surface and how affected it will be.

Sometimes just a smooth fiberboard, without splinters, is best. One client even used a spray bottle to spray the air and then the booties before discarding them in a plastic bag. Unfortunately, some people did not completely understand the air flow issues, and left their exterior windows open in the clean areas, adjacent to where the work was being done, allowing the dust to float in through the windows from outside.

Depending on how much you want to spend, there are elaborate portable units with high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filters that will rid the air of a large amount of dust as well as less-visible matter such as pollen. You may want to consult your child’s doctor for advice about filtered respirators, or whether it’s a good idea for her to be there during the construction at all. Good luck!

2026 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald

Call Leonard 516-252-8402

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100

BABY'S CHANGE TABLE. Gently used; white, 3 drawers. $15. Lido Beach. (516)705-8398

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ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS

OpiniOns

Extremist green policies have made electric rates soar

Anew report issued by our Center for Cost Effective Government confirms that progressive policies implemented by New York’s Legislature designed to tackle climate change have caused energy rates in the state to skyrocket, with few environmental benefits.

In fact, these policies increased electric bills by roughly 50 percent in the six years since their implementation.

In 2019, Albany enacted a sweeping law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, imposing mandates seeking a 40 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It also calls for 100 percent renewable electricity use by 2040.

But recently, New York’s government has been quietly telling the utilities to slow-walk the decommissioning of gasfired power plants. And after the November election, Gov. Kathy Hochul officially retreated from the unrealistic mandate requiring electric heat in new buildings until a lawsuit on the issue concludes.

The state’s progressive policies

included numerous initiatives many now regret, including shutting down nuclear plants; refusing to frack in New York; refusing to approve natural-gas pipelines; requiring all new buildings be heated with electricity; imposing carbon penalties on utilities, passing costs to consumers; and mandating that all cars be electric by 2035.

OIronically, New York’s carbon footprint wound up being worse after passage of this bill, while electric rates soared. Curtailing natural gas had devastating consequences, both economically and environmentally. It was the transition from dirtier coal and oil to cleaner natural gas that dropped U.S. greenhouse emissions by 14 percent from 2005 to 2019, while emissions were increasing worldwide. Rates are slated to increase further, with the New York State Electric & Gas company saying it will charge 23.7 percent more in 2026, while National Grid is seeking increases that could raise bills upstate by $600 a year. And Con Edison is seeking increases that would increase average gas and energy bills more than $150 higher than in 2020. This reduced supply is exacerbated by the enormous energy required for the A.I. revolution. Large companies at the forefront of A.I. innovation put

immense strain on the grid. A.I. data centers are becoming large energy users, outpacing even electric vehicles in their power demand growth.

verly ambitious initiatives have had negative consequences worldwide.

Overly ambitious policy initiatives to shut down traditional power generation and replace it with less-reliable wind and solar energy have resulted in significant negative consequences worldwide. In Germany, an optimistic energy transition plan involved shutting down nuclear plants. In 2011, Germany’s 17 nuclear reactors generated over 33 percent of the country’s electricity. Their shutdown led to a return to fossil fuels. Consequently, greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on foreign energy sources actually increased.

These extreme policies have been mirrored in California, resulting in electric costs that are roughly 50 percent higher than the national average and gasoline costs that are 47 percent above the average.

The typical residential customer in New Jersey, which also promulgated extreme green policies, saw an increase of 17 to 20 percent last year. One resident of Clark, N.J., claimed that her bill rose from $174 in June to over $300 in July — this despite New Jersey’s Public Service Electric & Gas having told her

to expect an increase of 17 percent. Even once-touted wind projects are losing their luster when they come under greater scrutiny. According to NY Energy Ratings, “Developers are looking for a way to pay for the mounting costs of new wind energy projects. They have even asked the [Public Service Commission] to increase New York electric rates.” This is estimated to result in an increase of 4 percent, or $4.67 per month for ratepayers. Some projects are costing double what they were expected to.

Billionaire Bill Gates, who previously sided with the climate doomsday faction, has tempered his position, noting that the trillions of dollars being funneled to climate initiatives could be better spent relieving worldwide poverty. Are you a better person if you pay an arm and a leg for extreme green policies that will have little impact on reducing the carbon footprint decades down the road? Or is it more cost-effective to concentrate those funds on saving lives today, via better health care and economic opportunity, while simultaneously investing in innovations that can provide cheaper, cleaner energy over a rational, gradual period of time?

Steve Levy is president of Common Sense Strategies, a political consulting firm, and has served as Suffolk County executive and as an assemblyman. He can be reached at steve@commonsensestrategies.com.

We can make our school cafeterias safer

in recent years, we’ve seen stories on the news of everyday heroes who have saved the lives of choking children. There have been incidents all over Long Island, from Elmont to East Setauket, yet New York does not currently require cafeteria monitors to be certified in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the Heimlich maneuver.

My new bill, SS6127A, known as Stella’s Law, would correct this oversight. The legislation is named in honor of Stella Tsimis, a teacher’s aide in the Connetquot school district who, in February 2023, saved the life of a 7-year-old boy in the school cafeteria by performing the Heimlich maneuver on him while he

was choking.

Tsimis received the New York State Liberty Medal for saving the boy’s life. The Liberty Medal is the highest civilian honor awarded by New York state, and is presented only for extraordinary, heroic and life-saving acts.

sTsimis’s actions that day highlighted the need for all adult cafeteria monitors in school cafeterias to be trained in and hold current certifications for first aid, CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, to help ensure the safety of the children who eat there. Requiring the First Aid for Choking poster to be displayed in all school eating areas further supports this goal by providing clear, life-saving instructions that can be followed in an emergency.

such posters, but it’s important for teachers, monitors and staff to be able to successfully intervene in an emergency.

taffs need to be trained in first aid for choking and the Heimlich maneuver.

Many rescuers have learned the Heimlich maneuver in school health classes, workplace training or even from

Stella’s Law would ensure that personnel are trained, and that informative posters showing the Heimlich maneuver are displayed where students are at the greatest risk of choking. The instructional posters help make sure students are not fearful or afraid if a choking emergency occurs, because they understand this life-saving technique.

There are many resources available in your community. Organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association hold classes to help people be prepared for such emergencies. We hosted our first CPR-Heimlich maneuver training in cooperation with the West Babylon Fire Department on Jan. 24.

In 2024, a Patchogue-Medford math

teacher, Chris Schiefer, came to the rescue of one of his students. Schiefer noticed the student choking on a gumball and quickly went into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver and helping to dislodge the obstruction. After making sure the student saw the nurse to confirm he was all right, Schiefer turned the incident into a learning opportunity by teaching his students about the Heimlich maneuver and pointing out a chart on the wall demonstrating how to handle a choking incident.

This was a great effort made by a responsible educator, but we should have standard training in place, as well as step-by-step signage for school staff, so they can be frontline administrators of these life-saving techniques.

Please contact your local school district, state senator or Assembly member and encourage them to support Stella’s Law, and to make our schools safer.

square/elmont

Established 1998

Incorporating the Franklin Square/Elmont Record in 2001

Hailey Fulmer Reporter

rHonda

lHERALD

Out of practice, but not out of resolve

ast week, for the first time in three years, Long Island was forcefully reminded that winter isn’t just a suggestion. The Jan. 25 snowstorm dumped more than a foot of snow, whipped it around with high winds and then sealed it in place with a deep freeze, making it the most significant storm in these parts since Jan. 29, 2022. For a region that had grown used to mild winters and more rain than snow, it was a rude, icy wake-up call.

Within hours, schools and businesses were closed, and familiar streets transformed from wet pavement to skating rinks masquerading as thoroughfares.

Snow shovels were unearthed from garages, boots were rediscovered in the backs of closets and many residents wondered, “Wait, how do we do this again?”

The storm highlighted the dedication of emergency workers and the importance of preparation, but it also revealed something else: After a few relatively snow-free winters, Long Island was a little out of practice.

Emergency crews, plow drivers, sanitation workers, police officers, EMS personnel and other essential workers put in long hours in harsh and dangerous conditions. Their efforts kept major roadways passable and ensured that critical services remained available. These people don’t get snow days, and Long Island is better off because of it.

Elected officials also moved quickly. Roads were treated with pre-storm brine to prevent ice from bonding to

letters

pavement. Hundreds of plows were deployed across towns and villages. Gov. Kathy Hochul sent more than 100 members of the National Guard to assist with snow removal, including on major parkways that thousands of drivers rely on every day.

County Executives Bruce Blakeman and Ed Romaine, in Nassau and Suffolk, respectively, declared states of emergency, helping streamline coordination and resources.

Many residents noticed and appreciated responders’ efforts. Social media was filled with thank-yous to plow drivers and sanitation crews, often described as “the backbone of the operation.” Credit where it’s due: Without their efforts, the storm’s aftermath would have been far worse.

Still, once the snow stopped falling, patience began to melt, unlike the ice. Complaints poured in about side streets that weren’t plowed quickly enough, leaving cars stuck and neighbors frustrated as snow hardened and became virtually unmovable. In some areas, plows managed little more than a single narrow lane, pushing snow into piles that quickly froze into what might as well have been concrete barriers.

The storm’s heavy mix of snow and sleet didn’t help. Parked cars made matters worse. Town officials, including in Oyster Bay, pointed to vehicles left on streets despite parking restrictions as a major obstacle to proper plowing. And then there was the Long Island tradition of shoveling snow into the street

Our foreign policy ‘is heading in the wrong direction’

To the Editor:

I read Peter King’s opinion piece last week, “What did Trump gain by badmouthing Denmark?” about the administration’s various foreign policy accomplishments and failures during the first year of President Trump’s second term. I agree that the approach that’s being taken in regard to Greenland is not wise. Our current treaty with Denmark gives the United States great leeway for the use of Greenland’s territory for U.S. bases in the defense of the U.S. and our NATO allies.

I feel that our foreign policy in general is heading in the wrong direction. The “America First” policy that’s being promoted by the administration is doing great damage to our peaceful relationships around the world. We may have the greatest military in modern history, but we live in a complex world. We need to preserve NATO and make sure that treaties established at the end of World War II remain strong. We need cooperation, not condemnation of friends.

I agree that we need secure and safe borders, and

— illegal, counterproductive and, in Nassau County, potentially a $200 mistake.

All of this slowed cleanup, especially when you consider the scale of the task. The Town of Hempstead alone is responsible for clearing roughly 1,200 miles of roadway. That’s not a quick lap around the block — it’s a marathon in snow boots.

Snow removal is a team sport. Municipalities can plan routes, deploy equipment and send alerts, but residents have to do their part, moving vehicles, following restrictions, staying informed and resisting the urge to dump snow where plows just cleared it.

After three quiet winters, Long Island’s collective snow-day muscle memory had weakened. The key takeaway from Jan. 25 is that the storm exposed gaps while providing a muchneeded refresher. Main roads were cleared. Most neighborhoods were eventually serviced. Emergency operations held up under pressure. With better coordination, clearer communication and stronger public cooperation, the next response can be even smoother. Snowstorms on Long Island are inevitable, and we should be ready for them. If everyone — from county and state governments to towns, villages, businesses and residents — gets back in practice, the next big storm can be met not with surprise and frustration, but with confidence, coordination and maybe even a little less slip-sliding around.

The political distraction industry — and its cost

something’s wrong. It’s hard to put a finger on it. We live in a political world, and something about the way that world slides between the foreground and the background of daily life just seems off — not dramatic, not mysterious, just persistently wrong.

That unease has a source.

Contemporary politics now functions within what can fairly be called a political distraction industry. Large, highprofile controversies generate a media fog that draws our attention toward whatever is loudest or most immediate, while steadily pulling our focus away from decisions that more directly shape our lives.

In any given week, we may be urged to fixate on the latest scandal, to listen to conflicting stories about exploding motorboats off the coast of South America, to dissect executive orders that change little in practice, to scroll through a flood of presidential social media posts, or to follow lawsuits filed theatrically against judges and officials with no realistic chance of success.

Each story is framed as urgent. Each demands our attention. It’s hard to keep up, and it’s harder to see through the fog of information to discern things that may be far more important.

This isn’t an accident. Distraction has become a strategy.

The incentives aren’t difficult to see. Media outlets compete in an overcrowded attention economy. Social media platforms reward speed, outrage and repetition. Political fundraising thrives on alarm. Issues and decisions are boiled down to simplistic either/or choices. Complexity doesn’t travel well. The most consequential changes tend to arrive quietly, already dressed as routine.

w here every problem is a ‘crisis,’ and every disagreement ‘unprecedented.’

The result is a loss of perspective. Minor controversies swell into national emergencies, while decisions affecting housing costs, public education, health care access, environmental protections and local governance are made quietly. We debate the tone of a speech while overlooking the budget it obscures. We argue about personalities while the machinery of government is adjusted — often in ways that prove difficult to reverse.

It’s no secret: a distracted public is easier to manage than an attentive one. Constant motion prevents sustained

LeTTers

those who illegally entered our country should be dealt with through our justice system. But I hope that the constant rhetoric we see daily in our news media starts to abate, and that cooler heads prevail. We need the direction of our politics, and our policies, to return to a sense of normalcy.

JErOME I. rOSEn Hewlett

Where have all the plows gone?

Editors’ note: The following letter was sent to the Herald on Jan. 29, after last week’s issues went to press.

To the Editor:

It’s frustrating that nearly five days after the significant snow we had on Jan. 25, our neighborhoods, thoroughfares and side streets are still not cleared. Did the plows come? Yes, they did. Main roads have been cleared. But who’s responsible for the mess left behind along Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Avenue and other highly traveled streets that could certainly benefit from another pass of the plow?

Why are cars forced to park next to huge mounds of snow that haven’t been removed? The plows should still be out there, helping to widen the streets. Instead I’ve seen multiple town highway trucks with plows removed.

An example is Goldenrod Avenue in Franklin Square, which leads to both Washington Street School and H. Frank Carey High School. During school hours, Goldenrod is almost impassable, whether you’re driving north or south, because it

scrutiny. Constant conflict fragments potential coalitions. Attention jumps from flare to flare, rarely lingering long enough for consideration of the most basic questions: What has actually changed? Who benefits? What precedent has just been set? Distraction works in part because it enlists us. We share the clips, repost the provocations, argue over headlines designed to provoke argument. It feels like engagement, but reaction isn’t the same as agency, and outrage — however understandable — doesn’t substitute for influence. Even our political vocabulary has been thinned by overuse. Everything is a “crisis.” Every disagreement is “unprecedented.” When every day is framed as an emergency, real emergencies become harder to recognize. Fatigue follows. People disengage — not because they don’t care, but because constant alarm is mentally exhausting. There is no need to tune out — but there is a need to slow down. When a story breaks, a few stubborn questions help restore a sense of scale: Does this materially change how power is exercised? Does it affect people’s rights, safety, or economic security? Will it still matter a year from now? If not, it may be worth keeping an eye on — but not

has at least 4 feet of snow sticking out into the street on both sides.

Why are all the corners leading to crosswalks not cleared? This is a safety issue. Are people expected to climb a snow mound to get to businesses on Hempstead Turnpike?

If the curb outside a store is still piled with snow and the crosswalk at the corner of that street isn’t cleared, how are people expected to get to the store? Businesses are clearing their own sidewalks, but it seems that curbs, corners, crosswalks and some bus stops are orphans of the storm.

When talking to the Town of Hempstead Highway Department, I was told they are only responsible for “residential areas.” They did offer to put in a “ticket” to replow Goldenrod Avenue. I was told that the state Department of Transportation is responsible for large thoroughfares like Hempstead Turnpike and Sunrise Highway. I called the DOT, and an employee repeated “from curb to curb” when I asked what snow clearing they were responsible for.

It seems to me that during these storms, the town, as the “first responder” agency, funded by our tax dollars, should do more to make traveling in our community easier — especially since the town isn’t responsible for plowing main thoroughfares. Why can’t they send crews out to dig out street corners and crosswalks when a storm is over? If we’re expected to take our kids to school, go to work and go about our daily lives, we should get better assistance from the town in order to return to our normal routine.

ELIzABETH MUrPHY Franklin Square

chasing.

The normalization of continuous distraction carries a cost most of us have experienced without quite naming it. The news and social media flood the airwaves with stories and endless commentary about the latest nasty thing the president has said about a celebrity — who insulted whom, who clapped back. Meanwhile, we hear only a sidebar about a court decision that permits the administration to empower ICE agents to arrest U.S. citizens as though they were undocumented immigrants, the decision mentioned only briefly before disappearing from coverage. One story dominates our attention for days; the other slips past almost unnoticed. Again, the imbalance is not accidental. Distraction isn’t merely noise, but leverage. The point is not to stop us from seeing anything at all, but to keep us looking in the wrong direction long enough for other, potentially more consequential, decisions to settle into place. By the time our attention shifts back, the argument is over, the paperwork is filed and the change is treated as a fact rather than a choice. What is lost is not awareness, but the chance to intervene at the moment when our scrutiny might have made a difference.

Michael Blitz is professor emeritus of interdisciplinary studies at the City University of New York’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice.