Freeport Herald 09-11-2025

Also serving Roosevelt

Optimum Business Long Island Association Foundation leaders as well as Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman joined staff at Freeport Ninja Academy to present a ceremonial $25,000 check. Luis Vazquez, left, president of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Matt Cohen, president of the LIA; Andrew Rainone, Optimum’s senior vice president of business-to-business national sales; Kathryn Gawrych, owner of Freeport Ninja Academy; Blakeman; and Jen Ostrager, Altice’s senior vice president of government affairs.

By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

The inaugural Freeport Volunteer Fair — an exciting initiative aimed at fostering community engagement and altruism — is set to take place at the Freeport Recreation Center at 130 E Merrick Road on Sept. 18 from 6:30 – 8:30p.m.

Spearheading the fair is Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé, who drew inspiration from a similar event that has been held in Oceanside for the past three years.

“I thought it was such a great idea because it puts organizations that are in need of

volunteers and people, who want to volunteer who might not know about different organizations, together,” Mulé said.

“So I thought, let’s do that in Freeport. And so we’re giving it a try.”

The fair is designed as a “one-stop shopping” experience, allowing attendees to explore a variety of organizations in which to volunteer their services and find opportunities that best match their skills and interests.

“I think people want to help their communities,” the legislator added. “Sometimes they just don’t know where to go to do that.”

DEBRA Mulé Nassau County Legislator

Some of the organizations scheduled to attend the fair to solicit volunteers are Bethany House, an organization that provides shelter and support to vulnerable individuals, such as homeless families, single women, victims of domestic violence, and others in need; Hangout One Happy Place, a

Freeport Ninja Academy earns $25,000 grant

By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ

mrafiq@liherald.com

Freeport Ninja Academy celebrated a major win for the local business community on Sept. 10, when it was announced as one of two grand prize recipients in the second annual LOCAL Small Business Grants program, hosted by Optimum Business and the Long Island Association Foundation.

The Freeport training facility was awarded $25,000 in funding to enhance its gym and make overdue upgrades to equipment that has seen wear and tear since the coronavirus pandemic, as well as $5,000 for marketing purposes.

The facility offers semester-based classes and training for children, starting at age 5, as well as adults, focusing on obstacle courses and physical fitness challenges inspired by NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior.” Its aim is to help users of all ages and skill levels build strength, confidence and community through CONtINuEd ON pAGE 13

Volunteer fair headed to recreation center on Sept. 18

nonprofit dedicated to bringing together young adults of all abilities through art, dance and fitness classes; Hewlett House, a community learning resource center for cancer patients and their families that has been serving Long Island for 28 years; and the Girl Scouts of Nassau County and the Boy Scouts.

Supported by fellow county legislators Seth Koslow and Judy Griffin, as well as State Sen. Siela Bynoe and Freeport Village, the event aims to become an annual tradition, strengthening community bonds and promoting a culture of volunteerism in Freeport. Bynoe, co-sponsor of the

News briefs

Roosevelt administrator switches schools

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Roosevelt School District’s former Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations, Gary Gentles, has been appointed to the same position at Valley Stream UFSD 13, effective immediately.

Gentles previously oversaw the development and administration of Roosevelt’s $146 million-plus annual operating budget, ensuring alignment with instructional goals and the district’s long-term strategic plan. Under his leadership, Roosevelt achieved its highest-ever Moody’s credit rating through strengthened financial governance, improved fund balance, and long-term fiscal sustainability. He also managed federal, state and local grants, ensuring compliance, timely reporting, and proper allocation, while delivering consistent internal and external audit results.

Gentles to Valley Stream UFSD 13,” Judith LaRocca, Superintendent of Schools, said. “His proven record of financial stewardship and operational excellence makes him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to the positive impact his expertise will bring to our district and community.”

During his tenure at Roosevelt UFSD, Gentles helped the district achieve its highest-ever Moody’s credit rating through strengthened financial governance, improved fund balance and long-term fiscal sustainability. He also managed federal, state and local grants, ensuring proper allocation, timely reporting and compliance with fiscal and programmatic requirements.

School holds annual Superintendent’s Day

Now stepping into his new role, Gentles brings more than five years of leadership experience in school finance, budgeting, facilities, and operational management.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mr.

“I am honored to join a district so deeply committed to academic excellence and fiscal responsibility,” Gentles said. “I look forward to collaborating with the Board of Education, administration, staff, and community.”

He is an active member of the New York State Association of School Business Officials and serves on the board of the Nassau Association of School Business Officials.

The Roosevelt School District celebrated the 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 27, with its Superintendent’s Conference Day, bringing together educators, staff, students, and community leaders for an inspiring start to the school year.

Superintendent Shawn Wightman outlined his vision under the theme “Together, We Transform!” setting a

unifying tone for the months ahead. The program highlighted the district’s commitment to excellence with student performances from Roosevelt High School and Washington Rose Elementary/ Legislator Debra Mulé was also present, saying ““Dr. Wightman’s presentation set an uplifting and unifying tone for the school year.”

Roosevelt bids farewell to beloved principal

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

The Roosevelt Union Free School District is celebrating the retirement of Barbara Solomon, who concludes 36 years of service to the community, most recently as principal of Centennial Avenue Elementary School.

Solomon, whose last day was Aug. 29, began her career in 1989 as a Pre-K teacher at the Bauer Avenue Pre-K Center. The following year, she was recruited by the late Lois Baron, principal of the Harry D. Daniels Primary Center, where she taught elementary students from 1990 to 1999. She later served as Summer School Principal for the BOCES Regional Summer High School Programs in 2000 and 2001.

In 2001, Solomon was appointed assistant principal at Roosevelt High School, a role she held until 2008. She was instrumental in the organization and establishment of the newly constructed Roosevelt Middle School, where she also served as assistant principal from 2008 to 2009. Following the retirement of Patricia Charthern in 2009, she became interim principal of Centennial Avenue Elementary School, and was named permanent principal later that year.

“Dr. Solomon is the embodiment of what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and pride,” said Superintendent of Schools Shawn Wightman. “Her unwavering commitment to academic excellence and cultural relevance has transformed Centennial Avenue Elementary and touched countless lives across our district. We are incredibly grateful for her visionary leadership and tireless advocacy for students and educators alike. She leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and leadership that will inspire generations to come.”

Throughout her career, Solomon championed initiatives that celebrated diversity, culture, and student voice. She is especially proud of spearheading Centennial Avenue’s annual Kwanzaa Celebration, a tradition that began more than 30 years ago at the Harry D. Daniels School. She also led the school’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration and introduced the His-

panic Heritage Month Parade of Flags, highlighting the many cultures represented in the community.

A lifelong learner and advocate for educational equity, Dr. Solomon received the Rauch Foundation Fellowship, which allowed her to attend the Reimagining Education Conference at Teachers College, Columbia University, in the summers of 2018 and 2019. That year, she also joined a Long Island delegation of educators who traveled to Cape Town, South Africa, to study the local educational system and explore strategies to close the achievement gap and promote racial healing on Long Island.

“I am most proud to see the professional growth of our teachers and academic achievement of our students over the years,” Solomon said. “I believe Teacher Collective Efficacy has been one of my most valuable professional development assets which has proven pro-

ductive to enhance teachers’ best practices with common beliefs. We have also maintained the Efficacy Principles which have been engrained into our school culture: ‘Smart is not something you are Smart is something you get! Think you can! Work Hard! Get Smart!’”

Looking ahead, Solomon plans to publish her dissertation, “How Teachers’ Culturally Relevant Beliefs and Practices Contribute to Mastery Achievement for African American Students.” She also hopes to consult with school districts interested in creating performing arts programs that preserve the cultural traditions and integrity of their students.

For more information about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, visit www.rooseveltufsd.org or follow the district’s updates on Facebook at facebook. com/RooseveltUFSD.

Local daycare receives back-to-school boost

The Innovative Daycare Corp in Freeport kicked off the new school year with a special delivery of supplies, thanks to Renewal by Andersen CARES.

On Wednesday, Aug. 27, January Stone of Renewal by Andersen, a window installation service located in Farmingdale on Long Island, visited the center to drop off donations as part of the Andersen CARES Foundation’s back-to-school initiative.

The contribution included a wide range of essentials — from baby wipes and diapers to backpacks and school supplies. Each school-age child at the center received a backpack filled with materials, while toddlers and preschoolers were also given items to support their year-round learning and creativity.

The donation provided a boost not only for students, but also for families, interns, and staff who benefit from the center’s programs.

“When businesses step forward to support children and families, they’re not just giving supplies — they’re giving hope, opportunity, and dignity. Renewal by Andersen’s generosity reminds us that true community partnership changes lives, said Janna Rodriguez, founder of The Innovative Daycare Corp Rodriguez emphasized that partnerships like this strengthen the entire community by ensuring children have the resources they need to thrive in school and beyond.

–Mohammad Rafiq

The Difference Between Financial Advisors and Estate Planners

Many people are unclear about financial advisors versus estate planners. In fact, many financial advisors and accountants give their clients estate planning advice even though it is not their actual area of expertise.

The main focus of a financial advisor is to manage and grow your money during your lifetime. They look at which investments are suitable for your goals and your tolerance for risk. Financial advisors also assist with retirement planning so that you have enough income later on after you stop working as well as budgeting, debt management and cash flow planning during your working years. They also assist with various forms of insurance.

Estate planners, on the other hand, focus on protecting your wealth from being devastated by long-term care costs and transferring your assets after death to whom you want, when you want and the way you want, with the least amount of taxes and legal fees possible. Estate planners are lawyers since legal documents are needed for disability and death planning -- typically wills

and trusts, powers of attorney and health care proxies/living wills.

The client often has had a long-term relationship with their financial advisor or CPA when they go in to meet the estate planning attorney for the first time. They are used to relying on those trusted professionals for advice. Keep in mind that the experienced estate planning attorney has been doing this type of work on a daily basis for many years. Most of their time is spent on exploring family dynamics and planning to effectively (financially, legally and socially) protect assets and pass on inheritances. On the other hand, the financial advisor is spending the majority of their time dealing with finances and the CPA is spending the majority of their time on filing for and saving income taxes.

When it comes to protecting and passing assets, the estate planning attorney is your quarterback — they scan the field utilizing the services of your other advisors as needed, and then throw the winning touchdown pass for your family’s future well-being.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Eco Rotaract is building homes for bees in Freeport

The Environmental Rotaract Nassau County Long Island Club is inviting residents to take part in a hands-on workshop focused on pollinator conservation.

The event, set for Saturday, Sept. 13, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Brookside Preserve in Freeport, will teach participants how to build their own bee houses using recycled materials.

A rain date is scheduled for Sept. 14.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a clean 15-ounce can to repurpose into their project.

Finished bee houses may be taken home to hang in backyards or left at the preserve to support the local habitat.

Organizers say the workshop highlights the importance of protecting pollinators at a time when bee populations

worldwide face steep decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and disease.

Because bees fertilize a wide variety of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, their survival is critical to food security and ecosystem health.

As part of Rotary International, the Environmental Rotaract chapter promotes environmental equity and sustainability through grassroots action, education, and advocacy.

Past initiatives have included planting native species, installing bat boxes, and coordinating community cleanups.

For more information about the bee house workshop, or to learn more about the club, email ecorotaryncli@ gmail.com.

NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com

Staying healthy is about keeping the right mindset. That’s something that Katie Ledecky and Catholic Health have in common. From wellness and prevention, to staying positive and proactive, together we’re making health care more personal for all Long Islanders – because getting great care should never be a competition. Long Live You, and Long Live Long Island.

jOsh KAMA

FARMINGDALE Senior FOOTBALL

IT WAS A HISTORIC 2024 season for Kama and he’s looking to follow up with a big senior campaign and lead the Dalers to the promised land after they fell just short in last year’s Nassau Conference I championship game. A deadly combination of strength, size and speed, Kama rumbled for 1,717 yards on the ground and reached the end zone 29 times. He’s also a tackling machine at running back and a top Thorp Award candidate.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, Sept. 11

Girls Soccer: Seaford at Wantagh .............................5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Calhoun at Carey .................................5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: C.S. Harbor at Plainedge ......................5 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 12

Girls Soccer: Kennedy at East Meadow ....................5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Clarke at South Side ...........................5 p.m.

Football: Mineola at Hewlett .....................................6 p.m.

Football: Carle Place at West Hempstead .................6 p.m.

Football: Malverne at East Rockaway ........................6 p.m.

Football: Freeport at Massapequa .......................6:30 p.m.

Football: Island Trees at Plainedge .......................6:30 p.m.

Football: V.S. North at Wantagh .................................7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 13

Football: Oceanside at Uniondale ...........................11 a.m.

Football: Floral Park at Sewanhaka .........................11 a.m.

Football: V.S. South at Carey .....................................2 p.m.

Football: Glen Cove at Baldwin .................................2 p.m.

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

Football: North Shore at Lawrence ............................2 p.m.

Football: Garden City at Long Beach.........................2 p.m.

Football: Clarke at South Side ..................................3 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Baldwin at Oceanside..........................6 p.m.

Nominate a “spotlight Athlete”

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

Numbers boost Freeport’s strength

By PATRICK MOQUIN sports@liherald.com

Many are called but few are chosen for Freeport boys’ soccer, which received more than 100 prospective players at the JV and varsity levels in a typically busy round of summer tryouts. The Red Devils will look to take advantage of their strength in numbers after a disappointing finish in 2024.

“There’s a lot of interest in the district for soccer,” coach Craig Klasson said. “I wish I could have multiple teams, but unfortunately, we have to be selective with it. They really love it. It’s part of their identity. They take a lot of pride in representing the high school and their community.”

Despite earning a 7-6-4 overall record in 2024, Freeport struggled more in a vaunted Conference AAA, going 4-6-3 and missing the playoffs. As Klasson continues working with a “young and eager group” in a long-term approach, the goal is simply to get sharper with experience.

“There is not one easy game that we look at on our schedule,” Klasson said. “Every single game, it will be very, very competitive and we’ll look to be in the top of that seeding when it’s all said and done, but it’s going to take a lot of work and we have to take one game at a time.”

The Red Devils’s youthful outlook begins at the top, as Klasson described junior midfielder Kevin Leon as their “heartbeat” on the pitch. Having earned All-County Honorable Mention honors as a sophomore, Leon has already earned a reputation for his sharp instincts and is quickly becoming a leader on a relatively young roster.

Freeport only has eight seniors, but midfielder Emerson Molina has been growing into a leadership position for years and will be invaluable to younger players. Klasson praised the two-time All-Conference player for his versatility. Not only is he expected to be a leading scorer, but he has also been an effective distributor and physical defender as needed. Leon and Molina will be joined

by sophomore Nicholas Leguizamon, who will step into a midfield role with plenty of upside.

Just as Molina is expected to maximize his presence as a senior on a younger roster in the midfield, David Menjivar will take on a similar role among the forwards. The senior started last year and will take over as a key striker alongside sophomore Jesus Sorto, who has shown glimpses of consistent scoring ability early on.

The offense will rely heavily on a handful of seniors and younger talent, but the defense is expected to be more solid. Seniors Jose Molina and Carlos

Bustos are both rock-solid defenders returning to familiar roles. Molina will often be called upon to mark the other team’s best player, while Bustos will take on a piloting role at center-back.

“We hope that that experience will help drive them and the younger players around them to make sure that we defend well,” Klasson said.

Freeport’s goalkeeper will be junior Kley Corado, a first-time starter who will step up to face several tough opponents in Conference AAA. He is yet another player with something to prove for the Red Devils in a year that will be defined by their ability to step up.

Local officials promote new volunteer fair

fair, explained that her office will “help market it and we’ll sponsor, you know, and assist on the day of in terms of any registration requirements.”

She emphasized that the goal is to connect both potential volunteers and organizations in need, aiming to “make a connectivity between those who are willing and able and those who need assistance.”

Bynoe pointed out that local food banks are struggling more than ever, largely due to funding shortages and increased costs.

“A lot of our food banks, right, they’re finding it harder to keep the shelves stocked, and the more that they have to pay for talent, the less you’ll be able to, you know, meet the needs of their client base,” she said.

She also highlighted Freeport’s central location, saying it was chosen so that “anyone who might be interested across the county, or even points beyond, can come and lend their time.”

Koslow, also a co-sponsor of the fair, highlighted the vital role of volunteering in personal and professional growth by sharing how his own career began as an intern volunteering on Capitol Hill.

She explained that funding shortages and changes at the federal level have created a “trickle-down effect, impacting how even states are spending their money.”

Reflecting on the impact of volunteering, Bynoe observed that many people find it deeply rewarding, especially retirees. “They have a real sense of purpose, and sometimes it’s a renewed sense of purpose,” she said.

“Without being a volunteer intern, I never would have had that opportunity,” Koslow reflected.

Koslow emphasized that the county legislature and its offices offer a variety of volunteer and internship programs, with opportunities ranging from government service to political campaigns.

He encouraged residents to consider volunteering with medical agencies, government bodies and mental health facilities to better understand and serve their communities.

“I’m excited for Legislator Mulé taking initiative to make this happen,” Koslow added. “And I’m happy that she’s including the rest of us to help out, and we can all compound our abilities to get it out there and get people involved.”

the freeport recreation Center, the site

Sept. 18 at 6:30p.m.

Seeking housing solutions on Long Island

Though too many homes are beyond first-time buyers’ means, there are options, the experts insist

By ROKSANA AMID, JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO & ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN of Herald Community Newspapers

Final installment in a series on housing on Long Island.

With housing costs climbing and affordability dropping across Long Island, the path to homeownership has become increasingly complex, demanding not just financial preparation but also creative solutions from nonprofit organizations, lenders and policymakers. From credit-building and grant programs to community land trusts and accessory dwelling units, real estate professionals and housing advocates agree that a variety of strategies will be required to help families achieve stability and the long-held dream of owning a home.

For Connie Pinilla, principal of the Connie Pinilla Team at Compass Greater New York, homeownership is more than a transaction — it’s a long-term investment in stability and wealth. With more than 20 years of experience in real estate and law, she has guided both agents and clients through the complexities of buying a home.

“Everybody should strive to own a home — it’s the American dream,” Pinilla said. “But the most important element isn’t just finances, it’s your credit score.”

Pinilla emphasizes that a good salary isn’t enough without good credit. “You could make $300,000 a year, but if your credit score isn’t up to par, your chances of getting a loan are very slim,” she said. “On the other hand, with an excellent credit score and even a $50,000 or $60,000 salary, there are many programs that can help you purchase a home.”

She encourages buyers to plan at least a year ahead, starting with a mortgage broker. Reducing debt, keeping credit card balances below 30 percent and paying bills on time are critical steps toward building trust with lenders.

Grants and assistance programs

In addition to personal financial discipline, Pinilla says, grants are underused tools. Some programs are government-backed, while others come from banks and credit unions.

“Bank of America runs a program where qualified buyers can get up to $75,000 in grant money,” she said. “Chase often has private grants of $5,000 for closing costs. Credit unions also have excellent incentives and often lower rates.”

Grants typically apply to first-time homebuyers. Many require completion of a homebuyer education course on budgeting, credit and financial planning. If the buyer remains in the home for a set period, usually seven years, the grant does not need to be repaid.

Pinilla often asks clients to compare the cost of rent to a mortgage. In Glen Cove, a one-bedroom apartment averages about $3,000 per month.

“Rent money is gone forever,” she

said. “With a mortgage, you’re building equity, and you can deduct interest and property taxes on your income taxes. Strategically, you may be better off owning than renting.”

Preparation is key to navigating a competitive market. Pinilla advises securing a pre-approval letter before making an offer, because sellers want proof of financial readiness.

Once an offer is accepted, buyers work with inspectors, attorneys and lenders to ensure the home is sound, the title is clear and the property is properly valued before closing.

“Every step is designed to protect the buyer,” she explained. “That’s why you hire professionals — your attorney, mortgage officer and real estate agent — to guide you.”

your future.”

Payment risks, and avoiding them

As the need for affordable housing grows on Long Island, nonprofit organizations like Community Development Long Island are fighting back. They offer resources including single-family rehabilitation, multi-family home improvement and new home construction.

Pinilla encourages buyers to focus on needs rather than wants. Starting with a modest or multi-family property can be a smart path to building wealth.

“A lot of people have built wealth starting with a two-family,” she said. “You live in one unit, rent the other, and let that income pay the mortgage. Over time, you can build equity and move on to bigger investments.”

Her message is simple: Preparation and realistic expectations make the dream of homeownership possible. “If you have your finances in order, you’re not just buying a house,” Pinilla said. “You’re building equity and security for

To support first-time homebuyers, CDLI helps reduce the risk of future foreclosures and struggles they commonly face. “We provide education and orientation around what that looks like,” President and CEO Gwen O’Shea said, “helping people think about things like building their credit, reducing debt and ensuring you know good ratios when it comes time to close on a potential property.”

The assistance doesn’t end there: CDLI supports current homeowners as well. It offers a targeted home improvement program in the Village of Hempstead, which includes a $40,000 forgivable grant for home improvements for homeowners who may not have had access to other credit. “This is a great way to make necessary health and safety improvements while also increasing the value of your home,” O’Shea said.

Renters have access to CDLI’s support as well, as the organization works with those in need of homes to find

available properties that meet their needs. “We provide incentives to landlords to participate in the program as well,” she said.

For low to middle class families, Habitat for Humanity of Long Island is fighting the expensive housing market by providing safe and affordable places to live. They are built with the help of their volunteer staff, and awarded families work with a construction team to create their homes.

These homes are sold to these families based on construction costs alone. Each family’s mortgage and taxes are no more than 30 percent of their total income, ensuring these homes are sustainable for a stable living situation.

Homes usually have two to three bedrooms, with occasional four-bedrooms, based on family size. “When we build a home and partner with a family, they have to put in 300 sweat-equity hours helping build their home and other Habitat homes,” Caroljean D’Aquila, the organization’s director of corporate and community partnerships, said.

Families must go through an application process. “They have to meet a certain income level, depending on the family size,” D’Aquila said. “They have to have decent credit. They have to have a willingness to partner, and then the last thing is based on a need.”

Habitat for Humanity of Long Island has built around 270 homes in the past 38 years, helping over 800 people. With the growing need for affordable housing, it’s hard to keep up with the demand. Twice a year, applications open

‘Everybody should strive to own a home’

for a 14- to 16-month building period. Over 200 families apply for homes each application period, and only about three are accepted.

Ground lease agreements

One method to drive down the cost of a house is collaboration with a community land trust, as used in a new development in Uniondale.

One of the aspiring homeowners who entered the Affordable Homeownership Lottery in February will live in a newly built house without paying for the land underneath. The land is owned by the Uniondale Community Land Trust, a local nonprofit, using a ground lease agreement that dramatically reduces the house’s cost.

The 1,688-square-foot, two-story house will have three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It has an estimated value of $620,000, but has a sale price of $275,000.

Jeannine Maynard, vice president of U-CLT, said that the program has taken great effort: the permit collection, construction planning and lottery preparation were all carefully planned.

Recently, Maynard heard of the federal Manufactured Housing Pilot Program, which assists in financing manufactured homes by waiving certain regulatory barriers.

“There was a pilot program done upstate New York,” she said. “They expedited the permitting processes — they didn’t allow those kinds of hangups. They were able to bring homes to market close to the $250,000 level.”

The program has limited accessibility, requiring candidates to be eligible for a mortgage, to be able to afford a down payment, to be a first-time buyer and to make between 50 and 80 percent of the median household income in Uniondale — just over $78,000 for a family of four.

Accessory dwelling units

Long Island Housing Partnership is an organization that creates accessory dwelling units on new or existing properties. ADUs are independent living spaces on the same plot of land as a main house, ranging from converted basements and attics to completely new structures.

Last year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the ADU Plus One Program, a $59 million grant to various organizations and municipalities to create roughly 500 ADUs across the state, according to the governor’s office.

The program is for two-person households that earn under $213,840, with a preference for those earning under $129,600.

LIHP President Peter Elkowitz has led efforts to build ADUs across Suffolk County. Recently the organization redeveloped homes in Bay Shore and in the Town of Islip, creating 78 ADUs.

“They’re very valuable,” Elkowitz said. “There’s extended families that live in these accessory dwelling units, with the grandparents, the parents and now the kids.”

He described ADUs as being able to financially support the owner of the

property, who would collect rent to offset their own mortgage payments and property taxes.

While ADUs do not take up more land, they do increase the population of a neighborhood, yielding more traffic and higher demand for parking in areas that may not have access to robust public transportation.

James Britz, executive vice president of LIHP, explained that the group is pursuing multiple housing solutions at once.

“All of our homes we built now go into our community land trust,” Britz explained. “Our next major development is 32 single-family homes, all with accessory dwelling units in them, so we’ll be able to assist 32 homeowners and 32 renters in the Bellport community.”

LIHP also administers county and town payment assistance programs for

these projects, and requires affordable home programs to include ADUs in municipalities that permit their construction, according to Maynard.

Fighting for the homeless

With the homeless population rising in recent years, the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless offers various resources, including a street outreach team and street medicine team.

A safe option support team is offered as a time-limited, evidence-based service that helps people in transition. Support services are provided for nine to 12 months, including initial outreach and engagement pre-housing. That includes multiple visits each week and a 90-day transition service after housing placement.

“We’re the lead entity of the Long Island Continuum of Care,” Paul

How Habitat for Humanity builds homes, and hope

Affordable ownership

■ Homes are sold at construction cost, not market value.

■ Mortgages and property taxes are capped at 30 percent of a family’s income.

Sweat equity

■ Each family contributes 300 volunteer hours toward building homes.

Family-sized homes

■ Typical builds are two- or threebedroom houses.

■ Each home is designed as a long-term residence.

Application process

■ Families must meet income guidelines, have decent credit and demonstrate need.

■ Only about three families are chosen out of more than 200 per cycle.

Impact

■ HFH has built about 270 homes on L.I. in 38 years, housing more than 800 people.

LaMarr, the organization’s policy and community planning manager, said. “We kind of are the command center for the homeless response system here on Long Island.”

To reach out directly, a helpline is available to connect with direct services and references. A boutique is available by referral for individuals to receive clothing and other home goods they may need.

An individual must be currently experiencing homelessness to receive these services. Those who qualify for programs are currently taking much longer to be housed. “I would say as a whole region it’s getting pretty stretched out, as far as our capacity as a region to adequately address and serve people who are experiencing homelessness,” LaMarr said. “The reality is that we have a lot more people entering into homelessness, and not enough housing to get people quickly housed.”

The housing crisis on Long Island is a problem at the intersection of social, economic and political stresses, and efforts to fix it must be multifaceted. Long Island’s communities differ in opinion, opportunity and solution strategies, but share a common cause in improving local living situations.

To reach the Long Island Homeless services hotline, call 211.

Ready Set Grow families hit the court together

Ready Set Grow Learning Academy families put their basketball skills to the test during the annual Parent and Child Basketball Tournament on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.

Students teamed up with their parents to face off against staff members and their children in a lighthearted competition that capped off the academy’s end-of-summer carnival.

While the day was more about fun than winning, bragging rights ultimately went to the parents and students.

Carnival highlights included a dunk-the-owner tank with co-founder Daryl Harris, a three-point shootout, and a six-hole mini golf tournament.

Village of Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy stopped by to congratulate the kids on a successful summer and help build excitement for the fall session ahead.

Ready Set Grow provides year-round childcare and developmental programs for ages 2–12. Registration is ongoing. For more information, call 516-421-1144.

–Mohammad Rafiq

News briefs

Girl Scouts elect new board vice president

Freeport resident Allison Bishop White has been elected to serve as Executive Vice President of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s Board of Directors, a position she will hold through 2027.

She was officially sworn in during the organization’s 60th Annual Meeting at Nassau Community College in Garden City.

The board is composed of lifelong Girl Scouts, community leaders, and nonprofit and corporate executives who help guide the council’s mission and provide leadership and support.

fundraising efforts that expand access to programs designed to build courage, confidence, and character.

White, an attorney specializing in financial services advisory and regulatory matters, first joined the board in 2016 as a member-at-large and currently serves as vice president. She has held senior roles at LPL Financial, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and the New York Stock Exchange.

“Our Board of Directors is made up of passionate leaders who believe in the power of Girl Scouting to inspire and uplift the next generation,” said Randell Bynum, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Nassau County. “I am eager to see this group of leaders inspire and shape the Girl Scout experience in their terms. I am confident they will help to fulfill our mission to build girls of courage, confidence and character.”

Board members provide strategic leadership, foster opportunities for girls across Nassau County, and support

In addition to her professional career, White serves as a trustee of the Stoneleigh Burnham School, is a member of Northeastern University’s Dean’s Strategic Counsel, serves on the Certified Financial Planner Board’s Public Policy Council, and is active with the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association.

A graduate of Northeastern University, White earned her J.D. from the Maurice A. Dean School of Law at Hofstra University.

For more information about Girl Scouts of Nassau County or to learn how to join, volunteer or donate, visit www.gsnc.org. –Mohammad Rafiq

Guding homeowners through exemptions

Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé, the Alternate Deputy Minority Leader, partnered with the county Department of Assessment this summer to bring the Homeowner Exemption Liaison Program (H.E.L.P.) to local libraries in her district.

The workshops were held at the Freeport Memorial Library on July 22 with Legislator Seth Koslow, the Baldwin Public Library on Aug. 19 with Legislator Scott Davis, and the Oceanside Library on Aug. 28.

More than 100 homeowners received one-on-one assistance from Department of Assessment staff to complete and file applications for exemptions, including those for veterans, senior citizens, Cold War veterans, volunteer firefighters and

ambulance workers, and limited-income residents with disabilities.

“It is always a pleasure to host programs that help homeowners reduce their taxes, and the Department of Assessment makes this process easier and more convenient through the H.E.L.P. initiative,” Mulé wrote in a news release. “As the series of District 6 workshops conclude, it is important to know that the Department of Assessment will continue to host this program throughout the county. I am thankful to John McQuade and his team for sharing these valuable resources with the communities we serve.”

–Hernesto Galdamez

DNA ruled admissible in Gilgo Beach case

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

After nearly six months of hearings, Suffolk County Supreme Court Judge Tim Mazzei ruled in a written decision on Sept. 3 that the DNA evidence connecting alleged Gilgo Beach killer Rex Heuermann to several victims, obtained through a new type of DNA testing, will be admissible in Heuermann’s trial.

“Astrea Forensics’ use of whole genome sequencing to generate SNP data and create a DNA profile,” Mazzei wrote, “is generally accepted as reliable within the scientific community,” based on the testimony of prosecution witnesses Kelley Harris, an associate professor of genome sciences at the University of Washington, and Richard Green, founder of Astrea Labs in California.

Mazzei also wrote in his opinion that “neither of the defendant’s expert witnesses controverted Astrea Forensics’ use of whole genome sequencing, to extract DNA from rootless hairs to generate SNP data and create a DNA profile.”

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney praised his staff and Mazzei’s decision outside the courtroom at the Arthur M. Cromarty Criminal Court in Riverhead. “The reason why we were able to prevail was one simple reason: The science was on our side,” Tierney said, in front of several family members

of victims of the Gilgo murders who chose not to speak.

Prosecutors have said that Astrea Forensics linked Heuermann to six of the seven killings he is alleged to have committed over the course of at least two decades, beginning in 1993, through the testing of rootless hairs found at the crime scenes and comparative analysis of those hairs to DNA samples obtained from Heuermann and family members.

His defense team has argued that the technology is new and unproven.

Five witnesses testified in a Frye hearing, a legal proceeding — also known as a general acceptance hearing — used to determine whether scientific evidence presented in court is widely accepted and considered valid within the relevant scientific community.

The admittance of DNA by Mazzei’s ruling could create a statewide prece-

dent. Prior to his decision, Astrea’s technology had only been admitted in court in Idaho. Heuermann’s defense filed another motion based on the court’s decision, alleging that the use of Astrea Forensics to analyze Heuermann’s DNA violates New York state health law.

“It criminalizes this very type of action,” Michael Brown, Heuermann’s court-appointed lawyer said, “which is an out-of-state, non-permitted laboratory for profit to test and offer evidence in the state of New York on a criminal case.”

The motion was filed on Sept. 3 with a return date of Sept. 17 — the same date the prosecution will certify its case. The Suffolk County district attorney’s office will answer the motion on Sept. 22.

Heuermann’s defense has been trying to sever the case into separate murder cases, while the prosecution has pushed to have the whole case combined in one trial. Mazzei called all parties back to court on Sept. 23, when he anticipates ruling on both motions.

Heuermann, 61, a Massapequa Park resident, now stands charged with the murders of a total of seven people: Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen BrainardBarnes, Amber Lynn Costello, Megan Waterman, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla and Valerie Mack. He has pleaded not guilty to all of the charges, and has maintained his innocence since his July 2023 arrest.

The Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs Workforce Development Center in Collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay Workforce Partnership and the NYS Department of Labor Present

MEGA CAREER EXPO

To connect job seekers with employers, training providers and career resources. It also services as a networking and recruitment event designed to promote employment opportunities, workforce development and professional growth.

Bring your CV/Resume & Drivers Bring your Abstract

OFFERING POSITIONS IN: • Healthcare • Education • Manufacturing • Technology • Government • Retail • MTA and LIRR • Hospitality • Armed Forces • Law Enforcement • Energy & Utilities • Construction Trades

NASSAU VETERANS MEMORIAL COLISEUM

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 • 10:00am-2:00pm

Early entrance will be available from 9:00am to 10:00am for Seniors, Veterans and Individuals that are Physically Challenged to avoid crowds.

OFFICE OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

Please Register with the QR Code or visit: https://app.nassaucountyny.gov/oma/event-registration/event-form For more information contact: Runnie Myles 516-402-7372 or Alicia Williams 516-572-1061 Workforce@NassauCountyNY.gov

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Freeport Ninja Academy owner Kathryn Gawrych celebrated her $25,000 grand prize win at the presentation ceremony with Optimum Business.

Grant to help business upgrade their equipment

progressive training programs.

Founded in January 2020, the academy faced its toughest challenge just weeks afterward, when the pandemic forced a four-month closure. “We were still paying our five-digit rent with no revenue coming in,” owner Kathryn Gawrych, of Massapequa, recalled.

Gawrych’s background in accounting and the loyalty of the clients she had attracted in her first nine weeks of operation — many of whom accepted being put on account credit, still paying their monthly fees for later redemption — helped the business survive those difficult months.

“That was a huge way of being able to make it through those four months,” she said.

Gawrych will use the new grant to replace or refurbish equipment, as well a to add new equipment.

“Having the best equipment helps us build our community and give our members the experience they deserve,” she said.

Optimum Business’s regional grant program — LOCAL stands for Lifting Our Communities Across Long Island — is designed to help small businesses. The service provider has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in Long Island entrepreneurs since launching the program in 2024.

“Since the launch of this grant program in 2024 with the LIA Foundation, Optimum Business has provided half a million dollars into supporting Long Island’s small businesses, a reflection of our dedication to the vibrant communities in the area,” Andrew Rainone, Opti-

mum’s senior vice president of national sales, said in a statement. “At Optimum, we recognize that small businesses are the backbone of local economies, and we are proud to champion their growth through these grand prize grants. We remain committed to empowering entrepreneurs, and look forward to witnessing their ongoing success and the lasting positive impact they’ll make across Long Island.”

Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, praised the resilience of Freeport’s and other local businesses.

“Working alongside Optimum Business to award more than 90 grants to Long Island businesses over the past two years has been truly inspiring,” Cohen said in a statement. “Small businesses fuel our local economies, and they are run by and employ our families, friends, and neighbors. This grant process confirmed what we suspected to be true — while businesses are still recovering from the pandemic five years ago, they are resilient, innovative, and committed to our communities here on Long Island.

The other grand prize went to Little Feet Big Steps, a licensed day care center in North Babylon, which plans to use its award to replace a decades-old furnace and expand child enrollment.

Both winners will also receive $5,000 television advertising campaigns from Optimum Media.

The LOCAL grants are made possible by Optimum Business and the LIA, in partnership with the Long Island Hispanic and African American chambers of commerce.

Your HealtH and Wellness — with a focus on living Well

A cupful of good health Getting to the bottom of a cup of tea

Tea may taste good and be especially soothing on a cool day, but there are also many medical benefits to this drink.

Tea is an ancient beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries thanks to its healing benefits. An estimated three billion cups of tea are consumed across the globe every day, with many people looking to tea when they are sick or to prevent illness.

As popular as tea has become, cer tain misconceptions about tea have spread over the years. Read on to learn more about what’s in your cup

Myth: Different tea varieties come from different types of tea plants.

Fact: Commercial tea comes only from the leaves of the camelia sinensis plant. Different methods of processing determine which variety of tea is produced. Black and oolong tea develops from oxidizing and fermenting tea leaves, while green tea is produced by steaming wilted leaves.

Myth: Adding milk to tea negates the health benefits.

Fact: According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the same amount of catechins, which are antioxidants associated with a reduced risk of some diseases, can be

absorbed tea that contains milk as tea that does not.

Myth: Anything with the name “tea” is true tea.

Fact: Only tea from tea plants constitutes real tea. Herbal varieties of tea are actually tisanes made from flowers and bark of other plants.

Myth: Fruits and vegetables contain more disease-fighting antioxidants than tea.

Fact: Research indicates that tea has about 10 times the amount of antioxidants of vegetables and fruit. Individuals who consume reduced-calorie diets often find tea that is a good, no-calorie source of antioxidants.

Myth: Antioxidants can turn back aging.

Fact: Antioxidants may contribute to personal longevity, but they cannot reverse signs of aging. Antioxidants have been known to neutralize free radicals in the body that can contribute to many different diseases, including various forms of cancer.

Myth: Tea never goes bad.

Fact: It may take some time for properly stored tea to spoil, but the level of antioxidants in tea does begin to diminish after a

few months. Research by the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry indicates catechins in green tea decrease by 32 percent in just six months. Tea is most beneficial to human health when it is consumed within six months of its production.

Myth: Tea has much less caffeine than coffee.

Fact: The amount of caffeine in tea can var y. The average amount of caffeine in tea ranges from 14 to 61 mg per eight-ounce cup Coffee, on the other hand, can contain

between 27 and 200 mg per ser ving.

Myth: Hot tea is better for you than cold tea.

Fact: As long as the tea is steeped in water long enough, both hot and cold tea provide the same bang for your buck.

Courtesy American Heart Association

Photo: Regarded for thousands of years in the East as a key to good health, happiness, and wisdom, tea has caught the attention of folks worldwide, who are discovering the many health benefits of different types of teas.

HEALTH MEMO

Expert rehab meets heartfelt care

At Oceanside Care Center, the comforts of home are right here at your fingertips, allowing you to focus on what really matters — recovering safely and quickly.

Oceanside Care Center has earned a reputation for over 50 years as a premier rehab facility, providing intensive short-term rehab as well as long-term care, seven days a week. The OCC team believes that the road to recovery is paved with compassion, and their goal is to help each resident reach their highest functional level with the help of our expertly trained staff of nurses, therapists

and physicians, all of whom are driven to build warm and compassionate bonds with residents. Together, they can develop a personalized care plan matched to specific needs and abilities, focusing on rebuilding each resident’s confidence, strength and skill, so that they can return to an independent life as quickly and safely as possible. OCC’s cutting-edge programs and therapies ensure a speedy recovery, while their five-star amenities and our kind and caring staff make you feel pampered and cared for in our beautiful, homelike environment. The comfortable

setting allows residents to focus on regaining their strength and independence, while empowering them to enjoy fruitful lives with their families and friends. Come in for a tour today!

mountsinai.org/southnassau

Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse do not have to suffer HEALTH MEMO

It’s likely that you are, or know, a woman with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), a painful condition that’s disruptive to daily living and emotionally discouraging.

Many women suffer in silence from this common disorder. But help is available.

POP occurs most often in older women when pelvic organs, like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend or protrude into the vagina due to weakness in the pelvic floor muscles and tissues that hold these organs in place. POP affects one in four women in their 40s, one in three in their 60s and 50 percent of women in their 80s.

The many painful and awkward symptoms of POP (which intensify as the muscles and tissue weaken) include:

• Bulging or feeling of a mass in the vagina

• Urinary problems, such as frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, or urine leakage when coughing or sneezing

• Constipation or fecal incontinence

• Incessant pain and pressure in the pelvic area lower back

• Increased or discolored vaginal discharge

• Decreased libido

• Lower extremity numbness or weakness (especially when POP is severe).

Women no longer have to suffer in silence. At Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside, a team of physician specialists called urogynecologists led by Alan D. Garely, MD, Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Division Director of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, are using a minimally invasive, simplified surgical procedure to relieve women who are suffering silently with this burdensome condition.

Using one tiny incision, which is not visible, the procedure takes less than an hour, is done in the hospital, and is out-patient. It requires the insertion of a small anchoring device that lifts and supports pelvic organs and tissues and repositions them to their proper positions, eliminating the need to cut or remove tissue and

Alan Garely, MD, Chair of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science and Division Director of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery at Mount Sinai South Nassau utilizes a minimally invasive surgical procedure for women with pelvic organ prolapse.

insert surgical meshing. Patients don’t need to have a hysterectomy.

A study published in the March 2023 edition of the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that the procedure is an effective treatment for uterine prolapse and can be used with other common POP repair procedures.

“When pelvic floor disorders are appropriately diagnosed and treated, the outcomes can be truly remarkable and liberating for patients,” said Dr. Garely.

Dr. Garely and Mount Sinai South Nassau’s team of urogynecologists also specialize in non-surgical and surgical treatments that enable women to gain control over urologic health problems, from urinary incontinence to bladder and voiding

dysfunction.

Each member of the team is fellowship-trained in pelvic surgery, board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, and are among the first surgeons in the U.S. to be board-certified in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. They also have advanced training in gynecologic laparoscopy (an alternative to traditional surgery that uses smaller incisions, for quicker recovery), computer-guided hysterectomy using the da Vinci® Surgical System and a special interest in outpatient care including outpatient laparoscopy (and incisionless prolapse surgery).

On average, they prescribe non-surgical treatments to successfully treat more than 50 percent of patients annually. Nonsurgical options that they prescribe include pelvic floor physical therapy, pessary use (a soft, flexible device that supports the bladder, vagina, uterus, and/or rectum), home exercise regimens, peripheral nerve stimulation (a stimulator implanted near the tailbone to treat urinary incontinence, urinary retention, urgency, frequency, and fecal incontinence) and medication.

Accreditations, designations, and awards that Mount Sinai South Nassau has received in women’s health services include The Joint Commission Perinatal Care Certification; Healthgrades’ FiveStar for Vaginal Delivery, Gynecologic Procedures and Hysterectomy; US News & World Report High Performing Rating in Maternity Care, and Baby Friendly hospital.

To schedule a consultation or for more information, call the hospital’s Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, call (516) 390-2850 or www.southnassau.org.

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

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

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News brief

Girl dropped by bus miles away from home

CONCERTS

ASHLEY M c BRYDE

What should have been a routine ride home from school turned into a frightening ordeal for a Freeport family this week.

According to reports, a 9-year-old Atkinson Intermediate School student mistakenly boarded the wrong bus after dismissal on Tuesday, the first day of school.

Instead of arriving at her designated stop, she was taken nearly two miles away and dropped off on the opposite side of town.

Without a phone and unfamiliar with the neighborhood, she was left in tears until passerby intervened and brought her home.

Her family told News12 that the child’s backpack carried a tag with her address, bus route, and assigned stop clearly printed — a precaution that, they noted, did not prevent the mistake.

“Just thinking about her somewhere that I don’t know where she was in that frantic situation — that’s what caused more of the heartbreak,” said Wilkins Pena.

Though the Freeport school district issued a statement, a spokesperson refused to confirm the details.

In the statement, Freeport school district Interim Superintendent Alice Kane emphasized that the district already has safety measures in place but will “reviewing these procedures thoroughly to determine appropriate next steps and prevent issues like this from happening.”

–Mohammad Rafiq

STEPPING OUT

A taste of the season in every bite

By Karen Bloom

Autumn’s many pleasures are upon us — and nothing says fall quite like a trip to the apple orchards.

As September rolls in, the air turns crisp, leaves begin to glow and our taste buds are tempted by the flavors that define this fleeting season: juicy apples, fresh-pressed cider and, of course, pumpkins. It’s the perfect time to gather family and friends, head to a local orchard, and fill your baskets with fall’s sweetest treasures.

Apple season is now in full swing, wich picking continuing into mid-October — giving everyone a chance to savor the harvest. When it comes to choosing apples, there’s no shortage of flavor. Local orchards are brimming with varieties to suit every taste and recipe.

Best for snacking: Crisp, juicy favorites like McIntosh, HoneyCrisp, Macoun, Zestar, Granny Smith, and Paula Red are perfect eaten fresh off the tree. More adventurous pickers might enjoy Cortland, Empire, Jonagold, or Crispin (also known as Mutsu).

Best for baking: McIntosh and Cortland shine in pies, crisps, and cakes — Cortlands, in particular, need less sugar because of their natural sweetness. Rome, Empire, Fuji, Crispin, and Ginger Gold are also reliable choices. For pies, a mix of varieties such as Crispin, Cortland, Rome, Granny Smith, and Northern Spy often brings out the best flavor.

Best for sauces and more: Paula Reds cook down beautifully into applesauce, while Cortlands add flavor and color to salads. And, of course, fresh-pressed cider remains the season’s star — orchards throughout the region urge everyone to “buy local” and enjoy each batch.

Once home with your bounty, make delectable apple treats.

is surely one of the definitive desserts of the season.

Filling:

• 3 pounds apples, to yield 2 pounds peeled, cored, and sliced apples; about 9 cups

• 1/4 cup (57g) rum, apple cider or juice, or water

• 1/4 to 3/4 cup (53g to 159g) light brown sugar or 1/4 cup (53g) dark brown sugar, depending on the sweetness/tartness of your apples

• 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons (43g) boiled cider, optional but good

• 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Pie Spice, or 1 teaspoon cinnamon + 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg + 1/4 teaspoon ginger

• 3 tablespoons (20g) unbleached all-purpose flour or tapioca flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping:

• 3/4 cup (90g) unbleached all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup (45g) quick-cooking oats

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup (142g) light brown sugar or dark brown sugar, packed

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder

• 8 tablespoons (113g) butter, cold, cut in pats

• 1/2 cup (57g) diced pecans or walnuts, optional

Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease a 9” x 9” square cake pan, or similar-size casserole pan. Slice the apples about 1/4” thick. Toss them with the remaining filling ingredients, and spread them in the pan.

To make the topping, whisk together the flour, oats, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder. Add the cold butter, working it in to make an unevenly crumbly mixture. Stir in the nuts, if you’re using them.

Spread the topping over the apples in the pan. Set the pan on a parchment or foil-lined cookie sheet, to catch any potential drips. Bake for about 60 minutes, till bubbling and top is golden brown.

Remove to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving. If you serve the crisp hot/warm, it may be quite soft; you wait till it’s completely cool, it’ll firm up nicely.

Note: To make individual crisps, grease eight 8-ounce capacity baking dishes, and proceed with the recipe accordingly, baking the smaller crisps for 45 to 55 minutes.

New York Apple Slaw Salad

•

A tasty side with plenty of crunch.

chopped green cabbage

• 1 cup(s) sliced, finely chopped red cabbage

• 1 medium red apple, sliced thin and cut into

small matchsticks

• 1 medium green apple, sliced thin and cut into small matchsticks

• 1 cup(s) grated carrot

• 1/4 cup(s) shelled, roasted pistachios

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sweet and Sour Cider Dressing

• 2 tablespoon(s) apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 teaspoon(s) country Dijon mustard (such as Grey Poupon)

• 1 tablespoon(s) honey

In a cruet or jar, combine dressing ingredients and shake well. Set aside. Combine cabbage, carrot and apples into a large bowl.

Chop pistachios with a knife or use a chopper. Add chopped pistachios to the bowl. Add dressing, salt and pepper to taste, and stir well. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes; stir again before serving.

Fall’s Best Apple Cranberry Pie

Apples and cranberries combine for a welcome ending to any meal.

• Pastry for a 2 crust deep dish 9-inch pie

• 4 cups sliced, pared tart apples (thickly sliced)

• 2 cups fresh cranberries

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons butter

Preheat oven to 425° F. Prepare pastry. In large bowl, combine sugars, flour and cinnamon. Add apples and cranberries. Mix to coat well. Turn into prepared pie pan. Dot with butter. Cover with second crust and seal to bottom crust edge by pressing edges together, then flute. Cut slits in top crust. Bake 40-45 minutes until crust is lightly browned. Cover edge of crust with foil if crust is browning too quickly. Cool.

Both Sides Now: Music and Lives of Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen

This intimate theatrical concert explores the music and lives of longtime friends and one-time lovers, Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. Created by, and starring folk-rocker Robbie Schaefer and award-winning jazz vocalist Danielle Wertz, the cabaretstyle performance — developed at Washington D.C’s Signature Theatre — traverses decades alongside songs such as “A Case of You,” “Hallelujah,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Suzanne,” and many more. Both Sides Now is at once a piece of the ‘60s and ‘70s, and of right now — offering us a story about the messiness of being human, of lives persistently lived at the edge of growth, and of finding the courage to turn toward one another, again and again. Robbie, a rabbi, singersongwriter and theater-film artist, and Danielle, a storyteller-composerarranger, pair up for an unforgettable evening.

Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m. $39, $36, $31. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

For over 40 years the band from Down Under continues to shine. See what critics have acclaimed as “the gold standard” of tribute acts with stunning special effects that re-create Pink Floyd’s legendary stage shows. The band performs the seminal album Wish You Were Here in its entirety, including all nine parts of “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” along with tunes from The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall. With colorful lighting and video, pinpoint lasers, gargantuan inflatables and flawless live sound that was the benchmark of Pink Floyd shows, the band delivers a memorable experience. Replicating music from every phase of Pink Floyd’s journey, this tour reinforces their dedication to the heritage of Barrett, Waters, Gilmour, Wright and Mason.

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m. $105.25, $88, $77.75, $66.25, $55.75. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

SEPT

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

•Time: Ongoing

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

Art Exhibit

Freeport Memorial Library presents Watercolors by Ilene Prager Smith, a lobby exhibit showcasing floral street scenes, exotic portraits, and flamenco dancers. Smith discovered her passion for watercolor painting after a career as a clothing designer and special education teacher. With reception on Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m. Runs through Sept. 28.

•Where: 144 W. Merrick Road

•Contact: freeportlibrary.info or (516) 379-3274

SEPT

12

Freeport UMC Dance Party

A dance celebration at Freeport United Methodist Church featuring live music and community fellowship. Open to all.

•Where: 46 Pine St.

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 378-0659 or office@freeportumc.net

In concert

SEPT

13

New York City-based writer-performer Joriah Kwame, a Jonathan Larson Grant recipient visits Adelphi University for a special concert appearance. Kwame, who has a deep passion for musical theater, showcases work from various projects in development.

NYC Ska Orchestra

Get in the groove with the NYC Ska Orchestra. This 20-piece big band blends the exuberant musical layers of the jazz big band era with Jamaican roots music. The top-notch musicians, led by arranger-trumpetervocalist Kevin Batchelor deliver a lively concert that surely will lead you to want to get up out of your seat and dance. The band features star turns from celebrated octogenarian percussionist/vocalist Larry McDonald and master drummer Carl Wright. Alongside a powerhouse collective of instrumental artists from the reggae recording scene, bandmembers have performed with Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Toots & the Maytals. Together they play a non-stop selection of lush original compositions and arrangements of songs from the richly historic and culturally iconic Jamaican musical styles of 1950s and ’60s ska, mento, rocksteady and jazz. Don’t know the difference between mento and two-tone? Let this collective of musicians be your guide. The passionate team of talented musicians each bring unique energy and expertise to create an unforgettable sound experience. The band includes Pallavi Gummalam and singer/arranger Aida Brandies Hargrove, joined by top-notch pros who all combine for a hugely entertaining, danceable, unforgettable show. $42, $37 members.

He is most known for writing the viral song “Little Miss Perfect,” of which he is developing a stage musical of the same name. His current slate of projects (both original and adaptations) ranges widely, featuring collaborations with artists like Debbie Allen, Lena Waithe, Siedah Garrett, Marcus Gardley, Lauren Gunderson, and Sam Pinkleton. Tickets start at $25, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees.

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

•Time: 3 p.m.

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

SEPT 14

Musical delights

Visit Old Westbury Gardens and check out the Café in the Woods while you’re there.

Grab a light lunch and settle in for an afternoon of classic rock, pop hits, and a splash of ’60s soul. Central Beat brings the groove to Café in the Woods. It’s the perfect Sunday soundtrack!

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 1-4 p.m.

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

Districtwide

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

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

SEPT

15

Peace Walk

Freeport Public Schools hold Districtwide Peace Walk during school hours at each building to promote community unity and student engagement.

•Where: All Freeport school buildings

• Time: During school hours

•Contact: freeportschools.org

SEPT

17

Atkinson Backto-School Night

Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School welcomes parents and guardians for its Back-to-School Night, providing classroom visits and information sessions.

•Where: 58 Seaman Ave.

• Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

•Contact: freeportschools.org

SEPT 18

‘Brown Bag’ Art Conversation

Join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular Brown Bag Lecture. Experience the museum’s exhibition “At Play: Artists & Entertainment” through a lively

Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

‘Blithe Spirit’ at Twin Oaks

Lighthouse Repertory Theatre Company stages Noel Coward’s witty classic “Blithe Spirit.”A portion of ticket proceeds benefit Freeport’s Book Fairies, and a book drive will be held at each performance.

•Where: Twin Oaks Theatre Arts Center, 458 Babylon Turnpike

•Time: Evening and matinee showtimes vary, through Sept. 28

•Contact: lighthousetheatrecompany.com or (516) 272-6597

SEPT

Gatsby’s Swingin’ Scavenger Hunt

Old Westbury Garden’s Gatsby Weekend celebration the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby,” continues with a family adventure. The jazz artists are late for Gatsby’s big bash and lost in the gardens! Hunt for jazz players hidden in the landscape. Check off your findings then and return to Westbury House for a special prize.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

and informative presentation. Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the program. Registration not required. First come, first seated.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 1 p.m., also Oct. 23

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

Town of Hempstead Job Fair

HempsteadWorks hosts its annual job fair, connecting job seekers with employers such as the U.S. Postal Service, NYPD, Amazon, and more. Veterans and people with disabilities have priority entry during the first hour. Registration required.

•Where: Freeport Recreation Center, 130 E. Merrick Rd.

• Time: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

•Contact: hempsteadworks. com or (516) 485-5000

Parti-gras at the park

Poison frontman Bret Michaels and former Eagles member Don Felder bring their spirited concert to Eisenhower Park. Rock on to fan favorite tunes.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside

•Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Gatsby in the Gardens: Art Deco Perspectives Experience the glamour and bold design of the Roaring Twenties through contemporary artwork inspired by the opulence of Long Island’s Gold Coast. This juried exhibition at Light Court Hallway celebrates the era’s iconic fashion, architectureand luxury in true Art Deco style.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Having an event?

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

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2006-NC3, Plaintiff AGAINST Claudio Garzon; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 7, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 24, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 452 Ray Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of York, Section 54 Block 312 Lot 34. Approximate amount of judgment

$253,778.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608078/2022. Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine”

Howard Eric Colton, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: August 4, 2025 155297

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN, TRUST, SERIES 2005OPT2, ASSET BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-OPT2

Plaintiff, Against

CYNTHIA CRAIG A/K/A

CYNTHIA A. CRAIG, et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/18/2025, 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 9/22/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 153 Connecticut Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Section 0055 Block 00388.00 Lot 00198

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $830,747.82 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 612946/2018 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Georgia Papazis, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 7/28/2025 File Number: 18-300586 CA 155295

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as owner trustee for RCF 2 Acquisition Trust, Plaintiff AGAINST Luis M. Cordero, Elizabeth Mateus, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 9, 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 September 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 18 Hotchkiss Place, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the

Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 55 Block: 395 Lot: 75. Approximate amount of judgment $486,818.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614432/2022. Joseph M. Terino, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-001160 86659 155214

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. RICOT PAILLANT, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale After Inquest and Appointment of Referee duly entered on January 27, 2020, 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 September 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1395 Circle Drive West, North Baldwin a/k/a Baldwin, NY 11510. 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 36, Block 468-02 a/k/a 46802 and Lot 48. Approximate amount of judgment is $485,221.39 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of filed Judgment Index #602216/2019. Cash will not be accepted. Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155376

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,

Plaintiff AGAINST ELSA STEELE, NICKIA STEELE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 16, 2016, 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 September 25, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 41 Delisle Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 280, Lot 126 & 127. Approximate amount of judgment $237,989.11 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #010009/2014. Lawrence Farbman, Esq., Referee Gross Polo wy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-302234 86707 155345

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

MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, -againstFELICIA BENN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MARGARET M. BENN, 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 10, 2025, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK

MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and FELICIA BENN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MARGARET M. BENN, ET AL., are the Defendants. 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 October 6, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 189 EVANS AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; tax map identification 55-23-183; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK .

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617968/2019. Steven Losquadro, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 155569

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against ANDREA FAGAN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 27, 2017, 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 October 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 296 Pine Street, Freeport, NY 11520. Sec 54 Block 84 Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $466,592.84 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be

sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 015029/2010. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Merik Aaron, Esq., Referee File # FCINY008 155567

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. FIRST START, LLC, Pltf. vs. TRIDENT EQUITIES LLC, et al, Defts. Index #600121/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Oct. 1, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on October 9, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a 325 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520 a/k/a Section 62, Block 44, Lot 430. Approximate amount of judgment is $370,585.75 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health of safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Sale will be held, “rain or shine.” MERIK AARON, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Ste. 224, Syosset, NY 11791. #102512 155584

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE MLMI TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, -against-

ALBERTO PENA, 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 May 3, 2019, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE MLMI TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-WMC2 is the Plaintiff and ALBERTO PENA, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on October 7, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 235 PINE STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520-3342; tax map identification 54-91-217; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK . Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 005985/2016. Lawrence M. Schaffer, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 155581

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff against KELLY DOSMAS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester,

NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered September 12, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 65 Linden Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575. Sec 55 Block 480 Lot 7. All that certain plot, parcel, piece of land with the buildings and improvements thereon erected situate, lying and being at Bay Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $301,619.74 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 610146/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Jane P Shrenkel, Esq., Referee File # XPNMN100 155565

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff - against - ARMANDO VENTURA A/K/A ARMANDO A. VENTURA, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on September 30, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 2nd day of October, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of

11, 2025

Public Notices

Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 67 Mount Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520.

(Section: 55, Block: 233, Lots: 209 and 210)

Approximate amount of lien $778,953.35 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 608163/2019. John G. Kennedy, 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: July 31, 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. 155448

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 000474/2013 COUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I INC. TRUST 2007-NC2

MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-NC2, Plaintiff, vs.

HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL WILLIAMS WRIGHT

A/K/A DANIEL

WILLIAMS, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; LORI WRIGHT; COUNTY OF NASSAU C/O OFFICE OF HOUSING AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS; PALISADES COLLECTION, LLC A/P/O PROVIDIAN NATIONAL BANK; DISCOVER BANK; KMT GROUP, LLC; FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC; HARRAH’S ATLANTIC CITY OPERATING COMPANY, LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, “JOHN DOE #1-5” AND “JANE DOE #1-5” SAID NAMES BEING FICTITIOUS, IT BEING THE INTENTION OF PLAINTIFF TO DESIGNATE ANY AND ALL OCCUPANTS, TENANTS, PERSONS OR CORPORATIONS, IF ANY, HAVING OR CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON THE PREMISES BEING FORECLOSED HEREIN, Defendants. Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real

property SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 162 LINCOLN AVE, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575

Section: 55, Block: 456, Lot: 355-356

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $210,000.00 and interest, recorded on December 19, 2006, in Liber M31334 at Page 930, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 162 LINCOLN AVE, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing

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

Dated: August 22nd, 2025 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff Christina Bruderman, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 155436

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff AGAINST LARRY D. GREENE, SHERRY GREENE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 16, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 6, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 230 Archer Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 117, Lot 9. Approximate amount of judgment $962,283.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #004351/2013. Howard Colton, Esq., Referee Gross Po lowy, LLC

1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-000325 86834 155488

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST JABEZ S. GIBSON, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LORRAINE GIBSON, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 6, 2017, 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 October 7, 2025 at 2:30 pm, premises known as 117 Casino Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 62, Block: 72, Lot: 495 (Lot Group 495, 530, 532). Approximate amount of judgment $722,134.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #000911/2012. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Pamela Sharpe, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1250 New York, NY 10006 25-000478 86648 155486

LEGAL NOTICE ESTOPPEL NOTICE

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on September 8, 2025 by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York (the “Village”). The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty (20) days after the date of publication of this notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution.

Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk, Incorporated Village of Freeport SUMMARY OF BOND RESOLUTION

Set forth below is a summary of said resolution adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York (the “Village”) on September 8, 2025.

public inspection during normal business hours at the offices of the Village Clerk of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, located at the Village of Freeport Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. 155710

LEGAL NOTICE SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD MEETINGSEPTEMBER 23, 2025 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing will be held before the Site Plan Review Board on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 6:45 P.M., in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, on Site Plan applications as they appear on the calendar; public comment invited. The Board will meet at 6:00 P.M. in the Trustees Conference Room to discuss cases not requiring a public hearing; open to the public, no public comment.

INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions.

BARNES A/K/A DIANE CARTER A/K/A DIANA CARTER; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 7, 2017, 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 October 9, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 39 Lessing Place, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 55 Block: 377 Lots: 1267, 1268, and 1269. Approximate amount of judgment $331,470.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011584/2007. Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rocheste r, NY 14614 NSRNC625 86734 155642

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to §128-5 of the Freeport Village Code, a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport will be held to conduct public hearings on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 5:30 P.M., in the Municipal Building, Board of Trustees Conference Room, 46 North Ocean Avenue, 2nd Floor, Freeport, NY adjacent to the Mayor’s Office.

Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: September 11, 2025 155709

1. The resolution is entitled “BOND RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK (THE “VILLAGE”), AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $11,749,447 IN SERIAL BONDS OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE PAYMENT OF CERTAIN SETTLED CLAIMS AGAINST THE VILLAGE, STATING THAT THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $11,749,447, AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT THEREFOR”.

2. Object or Purpose: Certain settled claims against the Village.

3. Period of Probable Usefulness: 15 years.

4. Amount of Debt Obligations Authorized: Up to $11,749,447. The resolution summarized herein shall be available for

SP-3841 - 691 S Bayview Avenue, Section 62/Block 187/Lot 13. Residence A. David Riemer. Construct new 3,743 sq. ft. 3-story house with attached garage, 1 rear deck 180 sq. ft., and 1 rear balcony 52.5 sq. ft.

SP-3842 - 92 Evans Avenue, Section 55/Block 396/Lot 50. Residence A. Peter Pekich. Construct 2,648 sq. ft. 2-story 1-family dwelling.

SP-3844 - 132 W Sunrise Highway, Section 55/Block 168/Lot 4. Business B. Freeport Rx Inc. Maintain 98” x 64” window advertisement. SP-3852 - 249 W Merrick Road, Section 62/Block 125/Lot 31. Business AA. Arthur Mott. Construct 394 sq. ft. 2nd floor addition and interior alterations. BY ORDER OF THE PLANNING BOARD

Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 155708

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstMARIE F. BAUDUY, 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 June 27, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and MARIE F. BAUDUY, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public

COURT OF OF NEW NASSAU TRUST NOT

INDIVIDUAL SOLELY TRUSTEE FOR ACQUISITION TRUST BAUDUY, ET SALE HEREBY pursuant to a Judgment of entered in the Clerk County of June 27, wherein U.S. TRUST

NOT IN INDIVIDUAL SOLELY TRUSTEE 2 TRUST TRUST

is the MARIE F. AL., are Defendants. I, the Referee, public

Public Notices

auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on October 14, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 346 MARYLAND AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; tax map identification 36-K01-38; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OF PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS

THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, 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.: 603000/2019.

Scott H. Siller, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 155704

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

BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, -againstMICHAEL L. GIOVINO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 9, 2025, wherein

BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL L. GIOVINO, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on October 15, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 306 ARTHUR STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520;

tax map identification 62-90-90 & 91; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED

VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617175/2022.

Brian J. Davis, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 155702

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF THE TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST, PLAINTIFF, VS. DANIELLE E. LAGUERRE AKA DANIELLE LAGUERRA PAULIN, ET AL., DEFENDANT(S). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 15, 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 October 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 38 Connecticut Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 56 and Lots 59 and 60. Approximate amount of judgment is

$356,526.89 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604348/2018.

Joseph Trotti, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 220997-1 155696

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 REO TRUST 2017RPL1, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-ATLAW, NEXT-OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENTS VIOLA WHALEY AND WALTER GRABOWSKI BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Discharging the Guardian Ad Litem, Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and for Nunc Pro Tunc Relief duly entered on July 24, 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 October 14, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 62 East First Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 69 and Lot 189. Approximate amount of judgment is $390,426.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold

subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616841/2022. Cash will not be accepted. Michelle Aulivola, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155694

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF SEPTEMBER 1, 2005, GSAMP TRUST 2005-WMC1, Plaintiff, Against DOMINIC VILLONI, ESQ., AS GUARDIAN AD LITEM AND MILITARY ATTORNEY ON BEHALF OF UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN A. FIORITO A/K/A JOHN FIORITO, et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 08/02/2023, 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 10/14/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 148 Meister Boulevard, Freeport, New York 11520, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Section 0054 Block 00330-00 Lot 00015 and 00016. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $464,006.92 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 005733/2015

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

OBITUARY

Longtime Freeport resident dies at age 78

Thomas W. Norcott, a former Freeport resident remembered for his deep faith, community service, and devotion to family, died on Friday, Aug. 29, at 11:45 a.m. He was 78.

Born in Brooklyn on July 6, 1946, to Patrick and Ellen Norcott, both of Newfoundland, Canada, Tom was the youngest of seven children.

On Feb. 7, 1970, Tom married his wife Catherine, and together they recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary.

The couple raised their two children, Bridget and John, in Freeport, where they were active members of St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in Baldwin.

ration, with the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, or OCIA, and through the men’s ministry “This Man Is You.”

He also devoted countless hours to charitable work, from building bicycles for St. Vincent de Paul to helping with weekly errands at the local food bank.

Tom and Cathy dedicated much of their time there to Pre Cana, guiding couples preparing for marriage.

After relocating to Elizabethtown, Pa., in 2006, Tom became a cornerstone of St. Peter Catholic Church.

His involvement spanned many ministries — as a lector, in Baptism prepa-

Tom volunteered at the winter homeless shelter, supported the Lancaster Interfaith Coalition, and championed the right of all people to worship freely.

He is survived by his wife Catherine, their children Bridget and John, and five grandchildren.

A wake will be held Friday, Sept. 5, from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by a Mass at 3 p.m. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your local Alzheimer’s Association or St. Peter Catholic Church in Elizabethtown.

–Mohammad Rafiq

Public Notices

Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 8/8/2025 File Number: 560-4138 CA 155700

LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE-SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAUU.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, -againstEDGAR VLADIMIR OSORIO, JR., AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF WILFRED OSORIO; MARIA OSORIO; ANY AND ALL KNOWN OR UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTTE OF WILFRED OSORIO; BENEFICIAL HOMEOWNER SERVICE CORPORATION; KABE CAPITAL, LLC; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,

ACTING ON BEHALF OF DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10,” said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, intended to be possible tenants or occupants of the premises, or corporations, persons, or other entities having or claiming a lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants, Index No. 611900/2024 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named DefendantsYOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30

days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated August 22, 2025. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOMEIf you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST

RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Jeffrey A. Goodstein, A.J.S.C. Dated: August 22, 2025 Filed: August 28, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 83 East Greenwich Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575. Dated: June 16, 2025 Filed: September 3, 2025 Greenspoon Marder LLP., Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Raspreet Bhatia, Esq. 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105 (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 (No Service by fax) Please respond to Cypress Creek Office: Trade Centre South, 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982 155698

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‘How does anybody want to do business here?’

Q. Can you explain why I have to go back through a whole repeat of applying for a permit that has already been approved twice in the past 10 years for the same thing? I bought a property that I was told could be developed for multiple families. I looked up the records and found that it had been approved as recently as 10 years ago, but the person who was getting the permit must have run out of money or something. I applied for the exact same thing and was told I would have to go through applying for the permit, getting a denial, going through a board meeting with the council, and if approved, would still need to get a zoning variance that has already been given approvals twice before. I was also warned that this whole process could take three to four years. How does anybody want to do business here? Buying a property, paying the taxes, getting nothing, just shelling out loads of money on the assumption that the whole thing will be approved hardly makes it worth it. Is this avoidable? Is there another way?

A. Not every municipality has this long a process, but the process is generally the same in every government, no matter the size. The only way through it is to promptly apply at each stage but, unfortunately, the procedures and rules make the process extremely drawn out. In theory, each phase of approval is intended as a “checks and balances” procedure, and as long as you are writing the checks and keeping the local government’s balances, they rarely try to streamline unless you cooperate. I did recently experience an exception worthy of recognizing Long Beach for its wisdom and compassion toward a homeowner. The person had a deck built that had columns running right along the property line, which is not allowed in the zoning regulations. The owner went through the building permit and zoning variance process, but the contractor deviated from the plans once the permit was issued.

Instead of putting all the columns right along the property line, even though the second floor deck was set back the required 5 feet, the contractor only put the first two front columns on the property line, and then installed the remaining three columns 5 feet in, so that a car couldn’t park under the deck. It made no sense, but the owner can’t read plans, and didn’t know what was happening until it was too late. They questioned this with their building department, and an official looked at the problem, but instead of forcing the owner to go back through the whole process, the official recognized that this problem had a simpler solution, and only required a letter of explanation from a licensed professional, and the problem will be solved without the expensive and time-consuming burden to the owner.

So it can be done, if only compassion prevailed. Good luck!

© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Stuff HERALD

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opInIons

Confessions of a democratic capitalist

I’m a capitalist. There, I said it. Even more than that, I’m a Democrat. In fact, I serve as a Democratic national committeeman. I have also been a partner in a small business on Long Island for more than 35 years. Capitalism is neither a threat nor just a theory to me; it is a reality that provides opportunities for me as well as our employees, vendors and clients.

As I write this confession sequestered in my undisclosed location, it is important to remember that our nation’s capitalist economy and entrepreneurial spirit are the envy of the world, attracting workers, investment and admiration. But this success wouldn’t be possible without two critical features: a social safety net that allows people to take risks, start businesses and join unions, and federal funding for research and development.

It is because of my commitment to capitalism that I stand in strong opposition to President Trump’s economic agenda.

Think about the child tax credit, the

IAffordable Care Act, Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security — these historic programs achieved by visionary leaders during national crises protect people from the vicissitudes of the market and allow them to pursue economic opportunity. Trump is tearing up that legacy by gutting Medicaid and food assistance for tens of thousands of New Yorkers.

Trump’s economic agenda is an assault on everything from jobs to science.

His Big Beautiful Bill — a big, ugly bill — will spike health care premiums for more than 24 million households that receive health insurance through the ACA exchange, and the exorbitant expense will cost as many as 80,000 New Yorkers their coverage. It will lead to the layoffs of more than 3,000 hospital workers in our state. It will reduce aftertax income not just for the very poor and vulnerable, but also for the middle class. It will raise electricity bills, and make basic consumer goods more expensive. Our small businesses and their employees will suffer the repercussions.

The latest jobs report indicates a slumping economy, with just 22,000 jobs added in August and the unemployment rate at the highest level since October 2021. This will only get worse as the administration’s unprecedented tariffs

are fully implemented. Moreover, Trump’s decision to fire the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner over a weak jobs report and his attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, in addition to eroding the independence of the Fed, are the tactics of a banana republic that undermine American capitalism. Our fellow citizens can’t succeed when they are denied opportunities to enter the middle class and build a future for their families.

Contrary to conventional belief, the federal government has funded and developed leading technologies, such as GPS, Siri, the Covid-19 vaccines, the space program and the internet. According to a recent Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas paper, non-defense government research and development has been responsible for more than 20 percent of productivity growth since World War II. Instead of doubling down on these critical investments, the Trump administration has canceled billions of dollars in grants for the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. His research funding budget would inflict even more austerity. Put simply, this is an assault on American jobs, edu-

cation, science, health, medicine and our economic standing in the world.

There’s no question that unchecked government and unchecked capitalism are equally dangerous. Imagine two scenarios: In one, American businesses innovate, grow and compete globally, powered by a workforce with access to health care, education and financial opportunity. That leads to a future in which new industries emerge, life-changing technologies are invented and prosperity is widely shared.

In the other scenario, we watch our competitive edge erode. Entrepreneurs can’t take risks because they can’t afford to get sick. Innovation stalls. Inequality deepens. Businesses fail. Families suffer.

The choice we face isn’t between capitalism and government, but between a sustainable capitalism that works for all and a broken system that serves and favors only a few. If we are to create jobs, power local businesses, develop innovation and protect the American dream, we must rise above party labels and partisan rhetoric and respond as patriots by learning from history. The investments that have cured disease and provided economic growth have made our country the beacon of innovation. That requires standing in defense of capitalism.

Robert Zimmerman is a co-president of ZE Creative Communications in Garden City.

What does good government mean to you?

firmly believe that the residents of Nassau County, and the constituents I serve in Assembly District 21, appreciate good government. We have many layers of government, and we serve our constituents best when we partner and work together to resolve issues, provide essential services and take action to positively impact the lives of the people we represent. I value good government, and would like to point out the following example of it. Good government was at the forefront when we proudly celebrated the grand opening of Whelan Park, in Malverne, on Sept. 4. This was a wonderful opportunity to show how the community benefits when all levels of government work in sync on a shared goal.

The Village of Malverne’s mayor and trustees, former mayors, local and state partners, the commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the governor collaborated over several years to bring this project to fruition. I applaud their dedicated efforts in prioritizing this project, and working

together to provide a vibrant recreational space that encourages participation in healthy activities and inspires community connection. I was happy to play a role early in the planning of this project, in 2019 and 2020.

One of the best things about Whelan Park is that it offers something for everyone, so now residents of all ages can enjoy this beautiful recreational space. I look forward to seeing my constituents enjoying the two new ball fields, the scenic pedestrian path with exercise stations and educational features, the concession stand and picnic area, the new dog park for animal lovers, and a natural habitat to explore.

To me it means the successful revitalization of Malverne’s Whelan Park.

for her proactive investment in the areas I represent. This initiative, part of the Mill River drainage program, was administered by Homes and Community Renewal at the direction of the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery in 2022. This program is vital, because its purpose is to increase the resiliency of communities along the Mill River by managing stormwater, improving habitat and water quality, and increasing recreational access to green space.

In the years following Hurricane Irene, in 2011, and Superstorm Sandy, in 2012, the state launched several programs to better address flooding. These projects included a Citizens Advisory Council, to ensure that valuable local resident input was a key component. This resulted in strengthened resiliency, fortified the waterways and shorelines against flooding, and improved access to Mill River and streams while enhancing recreational and educational facilities at Hempstead Lake State Park and adjacent areas.

Malverne has always been a village that values family, tradition and community, and I have no doubt that Whelan Park will be a cherished gathering place for generations to come. In July it was wonderful to see the park being used for a meaningful community endeavor, when American Legion Post 44 held its Walkathon there. I was thrilled to take part, and to get a sneak peek of the new park.

The extraordinary $6.3 million revitalization and renovation of the park is also an ideal example of how state investment can vastly benefit local communities. I am grateful to Gov. Kathy Hochul

This initiative not only provided a revitalized recreational facility, but also strengthened stormwater infrastructure and fortified the area adjacent to Pine Stream to reduce flooding. Although enhancing resiliency and addressing stormwater management to safeguard this area from flooding was the primary focus of the project, I value the combined initiative to benefit the local community. You wouldn’t know by looking at the impressive new ball fields that beneath them lies an underground water-retention basin to contain excess rainwater. The attractive pedestrian paths and surrounding area include permeable pavement, vegetated channels, and grading that were built as natural filters to collect stormwater.

There are so many other exciting potential projects along the shorelines and throughout the 21st District that would enhance our quality of life. I am continually working with the governor’s office, the Assembly majority and local leaders to make investments that will enrich our communities.

This is just one example of what’s possible when the people elected to serve us work together toward the betterment of citizens and our communities. Time spent collaborating and planning, with constructive intentions, almost always ends in good results for taxpayers. We need more of this in our government, and it’s not difficult to achieve. Whelan Park is a shining example of what can happen when government focuses on people, not politics.

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

Every Sept. 11 should be a day of resolve

ioften reflect on how people thought differently about the world on Sept. 10, 2001. Then, in an instant, everything changed. I remember the confusion, chaos and fear — and the extraordinary unity that followed. In the days and weeks after the attacks, we weren’t Democrats or Republicans. We were Americans, bound by grief, resolve and an unshakable sense of shared purpose.

I was buoyed by the sight of American flags flying everywhere, on cars, on homes, on buildings. They reminded us, even in our darkest hour, that we were still united as one people. That unity stands in stark contrast to the fractured and divided state of our country today. On this solemn anniversary, I believe Sept. 11 must not only be a day of remembrance, but also a day of recommitment. Let’s rededicate ourselves to the dream that is America — the proposition that all men and women are created equal, and the promise that hard work will be reward-

ed with a decent life. Let’s re-devote ourselves to faith, family, community and country.

I vividly remember those first hours. In Glen Cove, where I was serving as mayor, one of the first decisions we made was to run continuous trips of the Glen Cove Ferry to help bring people trapped in Manhattan to safety. Our crews and volunteers transported thousands of people. It was a small act of service compared with the enormity of what had happened, but it was something tangible, something immediate, something that made a difference.

Lness of those who stood ready to serve. I lost friends and neighbors that day, and I know others who survived because they decided not to go to the office that morning. One friend instead handed out my campaign literature at the train station.

et’s carry forward the spirit of unity and purpose that defined us in those dark days.

We solicited hundreds of volunteer doctors, nurses and first responders to be ferried to the city. We also coordinated with New York City emergency management and Glen Cove Hospital to bring the wounded back to our facility. Sadly, as the day wore on, the reality became painfully clear. There were no wounded. They didn’t need our hospital, or our volunteers — the devastation was so complete that there were no survivors to be saved.

That truth still weighs heavily on me, a reminder of both the cruelty of that day and the extraordinary selfless-

We must be grateful for our lives and what we have when we have it. Let’s do the work we can, while we can.

Over the years, I’ve been privileged to work closely with John Feal, of Commack, a man who turned his own tragedy into a life of service. John was working as a demolition supervisor at ground zero when a falling steel beam crushed his foot. After his injury, he was denied compensation. He made it his mission to fight for others. Through the FealGood Foundation, and with allies like Jon Stewart and many others, we’ve fought hard on behalf of first responders and survivors, ensuring that they receive the care and resources they deserve.

This year, U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick and I introduced the bipartisan Patriot Day Act, to establish Sept. 11 as a federal holiday. Our goal is simple: to give every American the chance to com-

memorate one of the most significant days in our history. For 24 years we have honored 9/11 in our own ways. By enshrining the day in federal law, we would affirm that remembrance is not optional; it is essential.

But remembering isn’t enough. We owe it to those we lost, and to those who rushed into the burning towers to save others, to carry forward the spirit of unity and purpose that defined us in those dark days. Let us never forget the pain that was visited upon us, the bravery and sacrifice of our first responders and the extraordinary sense of togetherness that carried us through. And most of all, let’s rededicate ourselves to the dream and promise of America, that we’re stronger together, that our differences don’t divide us, and that hope, not hatred, will define our future.

On Sept. 11, 2001, everything changed. Twenty-four years later, the memories are still raw. The grief still lingers. But so, too, does the possibility of renewal. If we remember well, and recommit ourselves, Sept. 11 will not only be a day of mourning, but also a day of resolve. That’s how we can best honor those we lost: by building a country worthy of their sacrifice.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.

Protecting our kids and keeping Nassau County safe

As county executive, I am proud to announce that Nassau County has reached unprecedented levels of safety during my time in office. Despite having a larger population than 10 U.S. states, our crime numbers have continued to decline every year. After falling by 9 percent in 2024, major crimes are now down by over 13 percent in the county yearto-date in 2025. This is a massive accomplishment for our Nassau County Police Department, and it’s a major reason why we continue to be regarded as the safest county in America.

But despite our accomplishments, we know that we can never rest on our laurels. Every day we strive to find new ways to bring security and peace of mind to our residents. One of my top priorities is protecting our children from criminals who threaten their security at school. With a new academic year underway, many parents may be feeling anxious about shootings and other devastating events that have

repeatedly happened across our country. I am taking every possible step, however, to ensure that those tragedies do not happen in Nassau County.

Last month, I announced that the NCPD was creating and deploying a new Strategic Response Team specifically to safeguard our schools and mitigate any threats to students, teachers and faculty. The team is made up of dozens of dedicated police officers who work closely with school officials to identify and prevent potential threats. I’m proud to say that the team’s deployment was a complete success for this year’s back-toschool transition, and it will be a critical tool moving forward for all of the county’s educational institutions.

W

ith efforts like the largest gang takedown in the county’s history last month.

a week, with many of them known members of gangs like MS-13, the 18th Street Gang and the Trinitarios. This monumental achievement was the largest gang takedown in Nassau County history, and it helped remove illegal criminals who had no business being here in the first place. Nassau is not a sanctuary county, and we will not tolerate criminality from illegal migrants who threaten our neighborhoods.

training alongside our federal, state and local partners. The real-life scenarios and exercises they undertake there will give them the experience to handle any situation they encounter on the job with confidence.

Part of the task of keeping our children safe is ensuring that the streets they live on are free from crime. The NCPD is doing an excellent job of collaborating with local, state and federal partners to achieve this goal. Just last month, we coordinated a tactical takedown of gang members with the assistance of Immigration Customs and Enforcement officials. We arrested dozens of dangerous criminals in less than

Tackling public-safety issues is critically important to me, which is why I’ve made so many investments in our local police. While other counties and leaders are reducing their focus on public safety and seeing an increase in crime, I have authorized hiring over 600 police and correctional officers during my time in office. I plan to expand our law enforcement hires even further in the years to come, to continue giving our residents the security they deserve.

Our officers will be the best in the nation thanks to a brand new policetraining village that we opened this summer. This critical resource will ensure that the brave men and women who protect us receive the best available

In addition to the best training, my administration and the County Legislature are ensuring that our police have the necessary funding to access the most advanced equipment and resources. It’s my goal that every police officer working for the county is put in the best position to do their job effectively so they can return home safely at the end of their shift.

My administration’s commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents has never been stronger. Under my leadership, we will continue to prioritize the safety of our communities so that every resident can live, work and prosper without fear. That means not only maintaining and enhancing our law enforcement resources, but also fostering strong relationships among our police, local organizations and the community. We will engage with residents, listen to their concerns and respond proactively to keep our streets safe. Together we will ensure that Nassau County remains the best place to live for everyone.

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L.I.’s housing crisis costs us more than homes

For the past few weeks, the Herald has presented a series on housing and the challenges of finding an affordable place to live for Long Islanders — a necessity that seems to be slipping further from reach for so many in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

For decades, people came here to build lives rooted in family, work and community. These days, however, housing has become not just a financial burden, but also a destabilizing one that threatens health, safety and the very fabric of our towns.

Housing supply has stagnated while demand has soared. Rising rents and homes priced beyond the reach of working families are reshaping daily life. They are forcing impossible choices: whether to stay close to loved ones, whether to sacrifice health care in order to pay the rent or the mortgage, whether to leave Long Island altogether. The crisis is no longer theoretical — it is personal, urgent, and in desperate need of solutions.

Consider the story of Karen Wihlt, whom we featured in Part 2 of our housing series, “Personal stories of L.I.’s housing crisis,” three weeks ago. Wihlt, 58, lives in uncertainty with her service dog in a Bethpage hotel room. After years of building a life here, working as a chef and helping open restaurants around the area, she now faces homelessness.

She can no longer work, but her income from disability benefits — too much for her to qualify for local aid but

letters

King stirs memories of what football used to be

To the Editor:

nowhere near enough for her to afford rent or a continued hotel stay — illustrates the sobering arithmetic of survival on Long Island.

The cost of insecurity reaches beyond the wallet. As Peggy Boyd, vice president of community services and advocacy for the Family Service League, noted in that story, the trauma of losing housing often triggers depression, anxiety and hopelessness. The Family Service League is a social service agency that provides support and security to Long Islanders in need.

Children, the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population nationwide, suffer disrupted schooling, constant moves and the erosion of the routines essential for healthy development. When a child repeatedly sleeps in a car or a motel instead of a bedroom, the damage isn’t just temporary — it echoes through a lifetime.

Even middle-class professionals, long considered the backbone of Long Island, are struggling. Brandon Webber, a lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department, and his fiancée, preschool director Alexa Rubinstein, who rent an apartment in Farmingdale, embody the contradiction: two educated, hardworking adults with multiple jobs who still can’t buy a home in the communities they serve.

For some, like Denise Minicozzi, 60, the only option is to work harder by working more hours — but still never getting ahead. Minicozzi waits tables and works part-time at an assisted-living facility just to cover the $4,200 rent for a

Re Peter King’s op-ed, “College football just ain’t what it used to be,” in last week’s issue: I arrived at Dillon Hall, University of Notre Dame, a graduate of Baldwin High School, in the fall of 1966. Alan Page walked through Dillon every day from Alumni Hall to get to the south dining hall. Bob Gladieux, Rocky Bleier, Tom Schoen — all regular guys, passing through the hall. I use the term “regular guys” because they were. And they were students as well.

I always remember Tom McKinley, All-American center on the team, with a 3.97 GPA in electrical engineering, writing an article for the N.D. paper, called The Observer. He described his day, and the focus was on time management. I’m 77, and have never forgotten the clarity of time these players had to observe in terms of classes, studying, practice, meals, travel, game days.

The 1966 team was electrifying. We all gathered in the old fieldhouse for the first pep rally. The team sat

modest Bayville house — an arrangement with no security and the constant threat of increases. Like many others, she and her partner are contemplating leaving Long Island.

Too many longtime residents are reaching the same conclusion: the place they love no longer loves them back. The ripple effects are already visible. Assemblyman Charles Lavine, a Democrat who represents the 13th District, warns that without affordable housing, Long Island is “losing its future.”

Middle-class families are being priced out, young people are leaving and communities risk being hollowed out. Without a thriving middle class, schools weaken, businesses falter and neighborhoods lose their vitality.

State funding has helped, and projects near Long Island Rail Road stations hold promise. But efforts remain piecemeal, stymied by local resistance to new development and a lack of federal investment.

The solution requires bold action: regionalizing poverty thresholds so assistance matches local costs, investing in supportive housing that integrates mental health care, and building more homes and apartments where people need them. Above all, it requires the political will to overcome “not in my backyard” resistance and acknowledge the reality staring us in the face.

Housing is not just shelter. It is health care. It is education. It is stability. It is dignity. If we don’t act now, we risk losing the very essence of what has always made Long Island home.

opinions University trustees must serve as guardians

the intrusions into the governance and operations of the University of Virginia, George Mason University, Harvard and columbia, among others, by federal and state officials contradict U.S. Supreme court precedent and undermine the integrity of higher education.

The White House and the Department of Justice threaten the withholding of federal research funds as leverage to force changes in who is admitted, who teaches and what is taught. They accuse institutions of being silent in the face of antisemitism; ignoring presidential orders limiting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; and violating the Supreme court’s decision on affirmative action in Students for Fair admissions v. Harvard. In addition to reductions in federal funding, the government has threatened to limit the enrollment of international students and the employment of international scholars.

These actions, based on unproven allegations and without due process and respect for the law, expose the vulnerability of colleges and universities, despite Supreme court decisions including Dartmouth college v. Woodward

(1819) and Sweezy v. New Hampshire (1957). Both decisions affirmed that universities must remain free from government interference in their teaching, hiring, admissions and governance. Institutional autonomy and board independence are fundamental to academic freedom, educational excellence and the fulfillment of fiduciary duties, the court affirmed.

aThe attacks against universities elsewhere should raise concern on long Island. We are home to 15 colleges and universities, and all rely on federal funding for student financial aid. Some have substantial research agendas. Stony Brook University, for example, is a major recipient of federal research grants, which totaled over $16 million in 2023. adelphi, cold Spring Harbor laboratories, Hofstra, long Island University, New York Institute of Technology and Northwell Health, among others, also have active research programs that rely on government grants. Earlier this year, Newsday reported that the new federal budget could reduce research funding on long Island by over $163 million for medical, science, technology and other projects.

tion, the Department of Energy, NaSa and the Department of Education.

ence between governance and management, and questions and prescriptions.

ttacks on colleges elsewhere should raise concerns on Long Island.

like universities elsewhere, ours are governed by boards of trustees that are responsible for preserving institutional independence, academic freedom and free speech, all necessary for teaching and scholarship that challenges assumptions and assertions. Surprisingly, fewer than 15 percent of american college and university trustees have any professional experience in higher education, which underscores the need for rigorous orientation in academic governance and mission. can we imagine a public company saying its directors did not know its legal landscape, finances and markets?

Public university trustees are mostly appointed through a political process, although some states allow public elections, and most independent college and university trustees are selected with consideration given to their philanthropic capacity. Neither are generally selected for their governance acumen or knowledge of higher education. Nevertheless, the duties of trustees are threefold: care, loyalty and obedience.

The duty of loyalty: Board members must act in good faith and in the best interests of the institution, not out of self-interest or in the interest of a particular constituency.

The duty of obedience: Boards must uphold the institution’s charter and mission, maintaining public trust through honest stewardship.

Each institution has a covenant with the public that gives it a charter, its major asset. The faculty may be the heart and students the soul, but the license to award degrees and certificates is what gives the institution stature, credibility, relevance and viability. That is what trustees hold in trust as guardians of the institution.

Key federal agencies providing research funding for long Island institutions include the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, the National Science Founda-

Letters

downfield, furthering the distance between himself and the Boilermaker defense. Terry Hanratty threw a pass toward the sideline where no one was until, a moment later, Jim Seymour, on a timed route, appeared out of nowhere to snag the throw. It was glorious.

Every visit to the campus brings me home, as it does with the thousands who have attended the university. But Peter King is correct: The sports landscape has changed. It’s mind-boggling to hear the play-by-play announcer name the three different schools that this or that player has attended before he landed on the team out on the field.

It’s a cliché, but how often is the answer to just about anything one word: money? It doesn’t seem like a degree in electrical engineering is in the offing. Not that these young athletes aren’t smart. They’re being offered something that may never come along again in their lifetime, and it’s hard to resist.

In some ways, people of our age resist change. We could never imagine the terms being presented to today’s players. (This goes for technology as well. I thank God our grandchildren live in town, so we can call them any time we need something that relates to

our phone, computer or TV.) Go, Irish!

BIll PIccHIoNI

Notre Dame class of 1970

MaTTHEW PIccHIoNI

Notre Dame class of 2000 Rockville Centre

Workers aren’t getting what Trump promised

To the Editor:

Workers deserve fair pay, safe working conditions, affordable health care and the freedom to retire with dignity. We deserve the right to join unions that give workers a voice; an economy that works for all families, not just the wealthy; and a democracy in which every voice is heard and every vote counts.

Workers and families deserve fully funded public schools that are safe, welcoming, relevant and engaging, as well as higher education that is accessible, affordable and free from political intrusion.

President Trump campaigned on making life better and more affordable

The duty of care: Board members must prepare diligently, participate actively and protect the institution through appropriate oversight, including guarding against external interference. Trustees need to know the differ-

Trustees are most effective when they know the history, mission and purpose, the students, local community and the comparative advantages of the institutions they serve. This is vital not only for the health of the institution but also to maintain the standards of independence that have been the hallmark of U.S. higher education. as a former university president and trustee, and as a member of PEN america’s champions of Higher Education, I believe it is my responsibility to speak out on behalf of our institutions, our students and our country’s future.

Dr. Robert A. Scott is president Emeritus of Adelphi University and Ramapo College of New Jersey, and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

for working families, and I’m sad to say that his administration has not delivered on these promises. Instead we have seen funding slashed for schools, health care, child care and more — while tax breaks are handed to the ultra-wealthy. our family members and communities will be sicker, hungrier and poorer. We deserve so much better.

Whether it’s peacefully protesting with our neighbors and co-workers in the streets, forming unions at our workplaces or engaging with elected officials in congress, let’s work together to fight for the future that all workers deserve.

claIrE laBorDE Hempstead

TOWN