Long Beach Herald 02-26-2026

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& East Atlantic Beach

Long Beach’s McAvoy wins Olympic gold

By ChRis ColuCCi ccolucci@liherald.com

Long Beach pride is shining as bright as gold thanks to hometown hero Charlie McAvoy and Team USA. The men’s hockey team captured the gold medal at the Winter Olympics last Sunday with a nail-biting win in overtime, defeating Team Canada 2-1.

It’s the first U.S. gold in men’s hockey since the “Miracle on Ice,” when the American team earned a hard-fought win over the Soviet Union on Feb 22, 1980 — 46 years ago to the day.

“Long Beach couldn’t be prouder of our hometown and American hero, Charlie McAvoy,” City Council Member Michael Reinhart said on

behalf of his fellow council members. “From the Long Beach Ice Arena to the world stage — congratulations to Charlie and Team USA on a historic and emotional win that brings the gold home to the U.S. for the first time in 46 years and for the very first time to Long Beach!”

Assemblyman Ari Brown, who represents Long Beach and the surrounding areas, offered similar sentiments about McAvoy, who, like many Long Beach kids, honed his skating skills at the local rink.

“From the Long Beach Ice Arena to Olympic gold,” Brown posted on Facebook. “Charlie McAvoy represents the very best of Long Beach and Long Island — hard work, discipline,

and pride in our country. Long Beach — and all of Long Island — could not be more proud.”

McAvoy, a Long Beach native, began playing hockey for the city’s Apple Core hockey team at age 4. He attended Long Beach middle and high schools before moving to Michigan to take part in the U.S. National Team Development Program. After playing at Boston University, he was drafted by the Boston Bruins, and has played in the NHL since 2016.

The day before the gold medal matchup, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also shared his thoughts on McAvoy. “We are extremely proud,” Blakeman said. “He’s an amazing athlete. What

Meet your first responder: Jaime Price

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

As you make your way around the City of Long Beach, during special events or in general, you might come across a police officer in their car or out walking a foot patrol. While it takes an army to keep the city safe, it might not be possible without Special Officer Jaime Price.

“Jaime is the heartbeat of the traffic division,” Police Commissioner Richard DePalma said. “She is the glue that holds the division together.”

Price, 48, started her career working in the Garment District, where she worked for 15 years. While she was there, she said she found a passion for working with numbers and their impact on planning. Price would took on a new role in 2017, joining the department as a crime analyst. The switch, she says, only heightened her enthusiasm.

“I love data,” she said. “I like to run action reports and point out areas that need more attention.”

Today, Price works in the traffic division, spending most of her time looking for gaps in coverage. She assigns her 20 officers to patrols and coordinates with city departments and outside agencies, using her knowledge of her home city to understand how the police department can improve.

When events like Irish Day in October or the Electric Light Parade in December shut down most of the West End, Price is responsible for orchestrating road closures and identifying intersections that require more police presence. She also sends digital notifications to citizens and city buses to maintain quality of life for residents.

“Community event or not, my job boils down to keeping the community safe,” Price said.

Price participated in the annual AAA Northeast “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” Campaign in 2018 and 2019. The program, which began in 1945, starts shortly before the school year, and reminds drivers to drive slowly and vigilantly in school zones, or in the presence of school buses.

Price graduated from Long Beach High School in 1995. She grew up in the East End, where her family has lived for over 50 years. As a youngster, she marched in the Memorial Day parade, playing in the recorder band at East Elementary school and the trumpet in high

school. During the summer, you could find Price working as a ticket taker on Roosevelt Boulevard Beach.

On Feb. 7, Price was honored at the Second Annual Law and Order Night for her service. The night of recognition, led by the American Legion Post 972 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1384, highlighted first responders in the community for their excellence and bravery.

“It was an honor for the department to recognize me,” Price recalled. “It’s more meaningful to wear a uniform that represents the community I grew up in.”

L.B. couple celebrates 75 years of marriage

The 94 and 95-year old first met as teenagers

By Chris ColuCCi ccolucci@liherald.com

“I was playing football in front of my house and a ball went awry,” said Robert Falcon, discussing his first interaction with Joan Weiss. “She picked it up and threw me a perfect spiral. That got me interested. That’s how it began.”

Spanning 75 years of marriage, two children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, Robert and Joan Falcon (formerly Weiss) have built a full life together — nearly all of it in and around Long Beach.

Both of my sons are married. At both of their weddings, they said they wanted to model their marriages after Joan and Bob’s.

Joanne FalCon Daughter In Law

The 14-yearold Falcon, who had attended West Elementary School, was enrolled at Lindell Junior and Senior High School — decades before Lindell was converted to an elementary school. Weiss previously attended East Elementary School and was also a student at Lindell. In 1949, the couple graduated Long Beach High School together — Weiss was salutatorian, Falcon was a star of the football and track teams and together they were voted class couple. They briefly enrolled in NYU, commuting into New York City from Long Beach, but their college educations were interrupted by two major events: marriage and the Korean War.

They couple wed in March 1951, on Falcon’s 20th birthday. At the time, men needed to be 21 to legally sign a marriage certificate, so his mother signed it in his place. Women needed to be 18, so Weiss, at 19 years old, signed for herself.

Soon after the wedding and after the start of the Korean War, Falcon joined the Coast Guard and, as a Seaman, was stationed between New York and Florida until leaving the service in 1955. Neither would return to college, but instead moved from Brooklyn, to return to Long Beach and began a family — their oldest son, Albert, was born in 1956 and their youngest son, Ronald, was born in 1959. The growing family lived for nearly 10 years at The Buckingham, now known as The Breeze apartments, and their children attended the local schools.

“Growing up, on the walls of the junior high, were pictures of my father and all of his accomplishments on the football and track team,” said Ronald. “When they did the renovation, it came down. But growing up, it was always something I could see going to the auditorium.”

He explained that his father, now 95 years old, remained physically active

until choosing to slow down recently.

“My father used to go to the gym every day. On his 90th birthday, I woke up and he was doing his three-minute plank,” he said of the former star athlete. “As a birthday present to himself, he gave up exercising at 90.”

To support his family, Falcon worked as a manufacturer’s representative for a women’s sweater company, regularly commuting to New York City and traveling cross-country. Ronald said his mother was a homemaker during their childhood but, after he graduated medical school many years later, she worked in his dermatology practice as head nurse

and medical assistant.

In 2000, the couple became genuine snowbirds and moved to Tamarac, Florida, returning to New York for four months each year. In Florida, they could be found swimming or socializing with other transplanted Long Beach natives. “My mother hosted a Super Bowl party for 20 years in Florida,” said their proud son. “At its height, they probably had 40 people.”

The matriarch is still an enthusiastic mahjong and canasta player. When the couple moved back to Lido Beach in the summer of 2025, they found an opportunity to create a new tradition with their

local son and daughter-in-law. The family spends most afternoons playing cards for hours.

The Falcon family is spread near and far. Granddaughter Julie, Albert’s daughter, attends Berklee College of Music in Boston, while her brother, Sammy, attends high school in Germany. Ronald and his wife Joanne have three children — their oldest son is an attorney based in Rockville Centre, their youngest son owns real estate in upstate New York, and their daughter is an event producer. All three of the Falcon’s great-grandchildren — Robert, Joseph, and Marshal — live in Rockville Centre and see their great-grandparents often.

Maintaining a relationship for more than seven decades doesn’t happen without developing some strategies. Joan shared one key piece of advice with her daughter-in-law on the day she married Ronald. “My mother-in-law said to me, ‘Just keep laughing,” Joanne explained. “And then, she said, ‘He’s your problem now.’ They both have a very good sense of humor.”

Falcon has his own words of wisdom, particularly for men in long-term relationships. “If anybody ever asks you what the secret to a 75-year-old marriage is,” Falcon said, “Just tell them it’s two words. ‘Yes, dear.’”

From high school sweethearts into their mid-90s, the couple celebrates a milestone 75th anniversary as they continue to set the standard for their entire family. “Both of my sons are married,” said Joanne, “At both of their weddings, they said they wanted to model their marriages after Joan and Bob’s.”

PThe power of Purim

urim, the joyous Jewish festival begins Monday March 2 at sundown. It is based on a story set in the 4th century BCE Persian Empire and begins with a decree of genocide. Haman, the evil vizier to King Acheshveros (Xerxes), felt disrespected by the Hebrew Mordechai and Haman convinced the powerful monarch to authorize the systematic destruction of the Jews across all 127 provinces of the kingdom. The fateful day was selected by a pur, meaning “by lottery” in Akkadian, hence the name Purim.

Understandably once that future day was chosen the entire Jewish population was under a dark shadow. Meanwhile, at the center of this most difficult time stood Esther, the new Queen who was chosen by the King, however since her coronation she concealed her Judaic heritage.

Rabbi Jack ZaneRhaft

When the final deadly order was issued, Esther faced what appeared to be an impossible choice: remain silent and safe in the palace or risk her own life by revealing her true identity and pleading for her people though she was unsummoned by the King.

At one of the most dramatic moments in the narrative, Mordechai challenges his niece Esther with a question about individual responsibility that resonates with all of us today.

“And, who knows, were you chosen for your royal position for a time just

like this”? (Scroll of Esther 4:14) Esther then approached her husband, told him she was a Jewess and asked that he undo the impending mass murder of her community and he agreed. Thus the catastrophe was averted, and we commemorate the anniversary of salvation as the holiday of Purim. Ancient sage and modern commentators noted a profound and universal takeaway from Purim. Our lives are not a series of random accidental events but rather “placements” with the opportunity to decide to make a real difference in pursuit of justice and what is right. Often we are uniquely positioned to act at a time of harm or wrongdoing and if we unmask our true selves and step out of the shadows of fear, we have the potential to affect the outcome in our own and others lives. Indeed history has shown that a single person can turn disaster to celebration. Esther’s heroism was based in her willingness to use her power for good at just the correct moment. The holiday of Purim, for thousands of years, continues to inspire all people of all faiths that positive change does not necessarily come at the hands of Kings, Prime Ministers or Presidents but rather forged by those who realize that they were born, “for a time just as this.”

Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft is the spiritual leader at Temple Emanu-El in Long Beach.

Fax: (516) 622-7460

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By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO

Celebrating the holiday Ramadan

azingariello@liherald.com

Ramadan is a central observance in Islam, marked by a month-long period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so its start date shifts each year. During this time, Muslims deepen their spiritual practice and self-discipline, culminating in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Religious significance as a key part of the Islamic faith

Ramadan holds central religious importance in Islam because Muslims believe it was during this month that the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

This event marks the beginning of divine revelation in Islamic belief. Within Ramadan, Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power, commemorates the initial revelation and is described in the Qur’an as better than a thousand months. For this reason, Muslims devote increased time to prayer, Qur’an recitation and supplication during the month.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Its beginning and end are determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon, which causes the dates to shift approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each solar year.

Fasting as one of the Five Pillars of Islam

Fasting during Ramadan, known in Arabic as ṣawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental acts of worship required of Muslims.

Each day from dawn, marked by the fajr prayer, until sunset, marked by the maghrib prayer, adult Muslims who are physically able abstain from food and drink. The fast begins before dawn with a meal called suḥūr and ends at sunset with ifṭār. Islamic law provides exemptions for specific groups, including children, the elderly, the sick, pregnant or breastfeeding women and travelers. Those who miss fasts for valid reasons are generally required to make them up later when able. Fasting emphasizes self-control, moral conduct and heightened spiritual awareness.

Focus on communal worship, leading to Eid

al-Fitr

Ramadan is observed through both personal devotion and communal religious practice. In addition to the five daily prayers, many Muslims observe special nightly prayers called tarawih, performed after the evening prayer throughout the month. The final ten days are considered especially significant, as they include Laylat al-Qadr. Acts of charity are also emphasized, including zakat, an obligatory form of almsgiving, as well as voluntary charity.

Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, which begins with the sighting of the new moon marking the start of Shawwal, the next lunar month. Eid al-Fitr includes a congregational prayer held shortly after sunrise, festive meals, social visits and the giving of Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer.

Long Island Reach receives $5,000 grant

By Chris ColuCCi ccolucci@liherald.com

Long Island Reach, the multi-service agency offering counseling, treatment and educational services to families across Nassau County, was awarded a $5,000 grant from the Nassau County Bar Association in Dec. 2025.

TThe organization offers a range of resources to support the community, and the grant funding will be reinvested into basic operating expenses to continue delivering its range of programs. Applying for grants, seeking private donations and pooling limited funds from various Nassau County agencies, are only some of the effective ways Long Island Reach makes ends meet.

his year, we’ve used fundraising to support the Harriet Eisman Community School.

Joe smiTh Director, Long Island Reach

“We also get money through fundraising efforts that we do each year,” said Joe Smith, director of Long Island Reach. “That helps to help us meet our expenses. This year, and for the last several cycles, we’ve used it to support the Harriet Eisman Community School.”

The Harriet Eisman Community School in Long Beach is an alternative high school operated by Long Island Reach since 1973. The school is intentionally designed in every aspect — from conference room-style settings rather than classic schoolroom desks to a less formal first-name basis with faculty — delivering an effective high school learning experience for students who may not find the traditional education system compatible to their needs. “The message is that we’re really here to participate, not to be an audience, but to be active participants,” Smith explained. “It fosters a kind of interaction — a kind of engagement that is the heart of what the school is about.”

The Harriet Eisman Community School recently redesigned their website to provide a better digital experi -

ence for students, families and the community. The next major fundraiser planned for Long Island Reach will be their fifth annual golf outing, taking

place at the Lido Beach Golf Club on May 27. Participants will be able to play 18 holes and enjoy a dinner buffet at nearby Roc and Olive restaurant. More

The Harriet Eisman Community School uses carefully design curriculums that teach both academic and life skills, ensuring each student is well-prepared for the future.

information about Long Island Reach, the Harriet Eisman Community School and the full range of programs can be found at longislandreach.org.

mountsinai.org/southnassau

State highlights workforce training on L.I.

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD & CAROLYN JAMES of the Herald

As employers across Long Island struggle to fill open positions, State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon visited Suffolk County Community College’s Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood on Feb. 17 to spotlight workforce training and emphasize child care access as a critical barrier to employment.

“There are many pathways leading to middle-class, family-sustaining jobs right now, and many of them lead through community college programs,” said Edward Bonahue, president of Suffolk County Community College. “An apprenticeship, an industry-recognized certification or license or a two-year degree. Eventually, many of them can also lead to bachelor’s degrees as well, and I appreciate Commissioner Reardon helping to shine a light on these opportunities.”

Reardon toured the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, met with students and educators and highlighted several workforce development and child care initiatives included in Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed state budget.

Long Island faces ongoing shortages in skilled trades like electrical work, heating and air conditioning, plumbing and advanced manufacturing. Nassau and Suffolk community colleges offer workforce training in those areas, as well as in

on Feb. 17.

health care. And the Long Island Educational Opportunity Center, sponsored by SUNY Farmingdale, offers regional residents tuition-free vocational training.

Officials said the programs help create a pipeline of locally trained workers who can remain in their communities.

Will Testa, owner of Will Testa Remodeling Inc., in Copiague, noted the shortage of workers. “There are not enough people coming in to the workforce who are trained properly,” he said. “The problem is, everyone forces their kids to go to college, which may be good for some, but

it’s not good for everyone, and trade schools are important — it’s the infrastructure of our society.”

What’s important, Testa added, is that this training is designed hard in hand with local employers.

While workforce-training programs are expanding, Reardon said, employment growth also depends on addressing Long Island’s child care shortage.

Reardon, who also co-chairs the state’s Child Care Task Force, said that increasing access to affordable care is essential to strengthening the labor force. The task

force, relaunched in 2023, is developing strategies aimed at universal, high-quality, affordable child care statewide.

“The governor has spoken a lot about this issue, and made it clear that she wants every New Yorker to be able to work at their fullest capacity and desire,” she said. “And that means that we have a responsibility to help them have accessible, affordable child care to do that.”

Child care costs on Long Island are among the highest in the country, second only to Massachusetts. Families typically spend between $15,000 and $24,000 annually per child for full-time, center-based care, according to the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island.

“When you couple that with the high costs of everything else — housing, food, utilities — child care is a tremendous stress on families,” Reardon noted.

Prachi Shah, owner of Kiddie Academy, in Hicksville, said that care providers also face financial pressures. “We are grateful for Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon’s visit to the Brentwood Campus and her attention to matters affecting our industry,” Shah said.

The Kiddie Academy of Hicksville and Bethpage are independently owned and operated franchise locations that serve 350 children and employ 75 early-childhood educators. “It is essential to keep this discussion going,” Shah said, “and highlight ways the state can better support providers on Long Island.”

two moms opened a spa. It had one big,

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Blizzard delivers over 13 inches of snow

By AidAn WArshAvsky awarshavsky@liherald.com

Just as Long Beach was moving on from January’s winter storm that brought close to a foot of snow, a new blizzard arrived, dumping even more.

The storm’s intensity, high winds, and blizzard conditions prompted Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Gov. Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency. Hochul also stationed 100 members of the New York National Guard across downstate New York and activated the state Emergency Operations Center in Albany.

Long Beach declared a snow emergency on Feb. 22, lasting three days. During the initial snowfall, crews worked with over 45 pieces of snow removal equipment. Long Beach spokesman John McNally told the Herald that the city began laying rock salt and sand on Monday after waiting for the storm to pass to avoid waste. “Each push utilizes around 80 to 100 tons,” he said.

State Assemblyman Ari Brown thanked village and town officials, as well as the Department of Public Works crews for their response during and after the storm.

The Long Beach Public Library, which was closed on Monday and Tuesday, said its homebound services would not be impacted by the storm. “We will still make deliveries to already registered patrons,” Tara Lannen-Stanton, the library director, wrote in an email.

Jean-Pierre encourages civic engagement

By ABBY GIBSON & KUMBA JAGNE Interns

Hempstead native Karine Jean-Pierre, the former press secretary in President Joe Biden’s administration, was the latest guest in Hofstra University’s “Signature Speaker” series.

Jean-Pierre, who served in the White House from May 2022 to January 2025, made history as the first Black and first openly LGBTQ person to be press secretary.

She is a graduate of Kellenberg High, in Uniondale, and Columbia University, and her involvement with Hempstead has not diminished: She gave Hempstead High School’s commencement speech in 2022, and was given the keys to the village by Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. in 2024.

“This is very much home for me,” Jean-Pierre said on Feb. 12. “This is not unfamiliar ground.”

Sister members of her honorary sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Hofstra students, community members and students from 18 area high schools attended the event.

Hempstead High senior Zeydi Guerra, 17, said that Jean-Pierre’s speech left her with more motivation to succeed in her own career. “She’s a Hempstead native,” Guerra said. “I feel like if she can make it, I can definitely do something as well.”

Speaking directly to the high school students, JeanPierre encouraged them to be curious, ambitious and passionate. A common thread through her speech, a panel discussion and an interview with student media was urging people to become involved in politics, even though the options may be imperfect.

“Your civic identity doesn’t begin at 18 — it begins when you start paying attention,” she said. “When you

notice what feels fair and what doesn’t, who gets heard and who has to jump higher just to be seen.”

Eleanor McKay, of Hempstead, president of the Long Island Cross County Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, said she attended because she recognizes the importance of Jean-Pierre being a Black woman who held a high-profile government position.

“She talked about seeing someone touch President

Obama’s hair, a young [Black] boy, and realize that from the texture he was here and how real it is that he is just like us,” McKay said. “Sometimes it’s not really appreciated, or we don’t understand the magnitude of representation. It impacts us and the next generation.”

Hofstra University President Susan Poser introduced Camryn Bowden, a senior majoring in political science and journalism, who in turn introduced JeanPierre. Poser spoke so glowingly of Bowden’s resumé that Jean-Pierre said she would be working for Bowden one day.

“I had the opportunity to get her to sign my copy of her book ‘Independent,’” Bowden said. “She wrote in the book, ‘I’ll be watching you on the news someday.’ It was, again, just a surreal experience to hear someone who held such a high position of power in the White House say such sweet things.”

Jean-Pierre’s first book was “Moving Forward: A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and the Promise of America.” Her most recent, published last October, is “Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.”

She empathized with young people’s feelings of being disconnected from the two-party system. “The two-party system often feels rigid, outdated and unresponsive,” she said. “It forces false choices and limits imagination. Questioning that system is not a failure of citizenship.”

She expressed disdain for the current administration, saying, “This too shall pass.”

“We have to work as a people to make sure that there is people power in this time, that our voices are heard, that we hold powerful people accountable,” Jean-Pierre said. “We are celebrating 250 years of this country, and that is a young democracy. If we don’t fight for it every day, we will lose it.”

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Team USA

ter than a gold medalist in Nassau County? We’re going to be rooting really, really hard. I’ll be up early tomorrow morning, I’ll get my coffee and we’ll be rooting as hard as we can.”

After Matt Boldy scored early in the first period, giving Team USA a quick lead, Canada fought back in the second — at one point having a 5-on-3 power play for over 90 seconds after McAvoy was penalized for hooking. Canada was unable to score with the advantage, but tied the game shortly before the end of the period.

During a tense third period, McAvoy, a defenseman, played a key role in helping to avert several shots on goal. In one of the most crucial plays of the game, McAvoy stifled a Canadian attack by positioning himself behind goalie Connor Hellebuyck and blocking what could have been a game-ending shot. Overtime ended nearly as fast as it began, with Jack Hughes scoring the winning goal for Team USA in under two minutes.

John Kelly, of Long Beach, had insight on both Charlie McAvoys — junior and senior. “I played hockey with Charlie McAvoy’s father years ago down here in Long Beach,” Kelly said of Charlie Sr., who operates the family’s four-generation-old plumbing business. “I saw Charlie [Jr.] play at the Ice Arena. I went to Boston University and saw him play there a couple of times. But this is awesome.”

Many local restaurants and bars opened early to air the gold-medal game at 8:10 a.m. local time — 2:10 p.m. in Italy. At Billy’s Beach Café, on West Park Avenue, the crowd was packed around the bar, tables were filled, and it was standing-room-only as more than a dozen televisions broadcast the game.

pete Stemkowski, center, a Long Beach resident and Stanley Cup winner

wall at Billy’s Beach Café, was among the crowd that watched the game.

“It’s been one of the best games, I think, that we’ve seen in a really long time,” Jennifer Pristera, a local hockey fan, said. “Especially being a Rangers town — it’s been a rough season. It’s so cool that everybody’s come together, no matter what. You’ve got Rangers fans, Boston, Islanders. Nobody cares. It’s so nice.”

The Long Beach community was eager to get behind their local Olympic athlete, and the overtime victory triggered ear-rattling chants of “USA! USA!”

“We got to experience this with all our friends and family here in Long Beach.” said resident Keith DeSantis. “Watching this unfold today was amazing.”

Icons. Insights. Impact.

STEPPING OUT

Rhythms, rituals and revelry

Carnival is back at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Abbey Salvemini

Let the good times roll when the museum opens its doors to Carnival on Saturday.

As a globally cherished cultural celebration, Carnival honors the unique traditions and diverse identities of the Caribbean and Latin American cultures it touches. Locally, Long Island Children’s Museum transforms into a vibrant street festival for its second annual Carnival — a vibrant showcase of creativity and self-expression — through a blend of music, dance, crafts and interactive programming.

Supported by New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the event highlights the museum’s commitment to creating shared cultural experiences for Long Island families.

“As a woman of Caribbean descent, I am proud to sponsor this event at the Long Island Children’s Museum, an institution that plays a vital role in educating and inspiring our young people,” Solages says. “Events like this remind us, and teach the next generation, that diversity is our strength and that honoring our roots can be both joyful and meaningful.”

American Chamber Ensemble in concert

Hofstra University’s renowned ensemble-in-residence celebrates the legacies of founding clarinetist Naomi Drucker and longtime violist Lois Martin at its upcoming concert. The program — a diverse selection of works by Mendelssohn, Hurlstone, Beach, Dimmler, and Steven Gerber — honors both who were instrumental in shaping ACE’s storied history. In a special tribute to Martin, the ensemble performs Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 6, a masterpiece known for its prominent viola scoring. Drucker, a revered educator and co-founder, is remembered with David Holsinger’s On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss. In a testament to her impact, f Drucker’s former students, colleagues, and friends join the ensemble on stage for this moving tribute

• Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Admission: $18, $16 65+

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

While the iconic celebrations in Rio de Janeiro and Portau-Prince often steal the spotlight, the museum’s festival dives deeper into the tapestry of the region — from the energetic parades of Barranquilla to the historic traditions of Oruro and Montevideo. They are expressions of heritage and identity, artistic creativity and community spirit that define the joy of marking the changing seasons and the region’s rich tapestry.

Visitors will get a taste of Carnival’s jubilant spirit of throughout the day’s programming.

“We were looking for a festival that embodies the diversity of Long Island,” Aimee Terzulli, the museum’s vice president of program and visitor experience shares. “These cultural festivals are invitations to the community.”

Throughout the day, families can expect a lively mix of music, movement and creative experiences, set against the backdrop of upbeat Caribbean rhythms that create a lively, tropical atmosphere.

The Brazilian Samba Novo troupe, a returning favorite, gets everyone moving to the sounds of Samba and salsa music. The lively dancers and energetic drummers once again entertain the crowd and teach kids some of the dance steps, adding an interactive element to their entertainment. Those towering “Jumbie” stilt walkers, rooted as a symbol of spirit guardians, are also back, bring the magic to life as an iconic part of the Carnival celebration.

“The performances resemble what Carnival would really be like,” Terzulli enthuses.

No Carnival is complete without a massive parade to ring in the holiday. Here everyone gets into the parade spirit during what she describes as “the fantastic float parade.”

Kids can help decorate miniature floats before pulling them through the parade, accompanied by dancers and stilt walkers. And, of course, there’s a Carnival King and Queen involved — chosen from

and celebrate

those in the “crowd” to reinforce the event’s playful, inclusive spirit.

Little faces, big imaginations! From butterflies to bold designs, creativity takes center stage as kids are transformed into works of art.

The museum’s animal ‘residents” even join in the fun, helping families understand how wildlife has historically inspired Carnival imagery and costume design. New craft offerings this year include maraca-making, ribbon stick design and face painting.

However, the day isn’t just about play — it’s about perspective.

“We want everyone to find an entry point,” Terzulli says.

While the event is undeniably festive, education remains a core focus. Museum staff and performers involve conversations about Carnival’s history and meaning throughout the day, helping visitors understand its cultural roots while enjoying it all. Through partnerships with authentic cultural contributors, the museum ensures the history of the experience remains front and center.

“We make sure that when they are making the crafts, there is an exchange of why they are making it,” Turzelli adds.

Of course, no festival is complete without flavor. Families can pause for a “pit stop” to sample sweet and savory treats inspired by various Latin American and Caribbean nations, providing a literal taste of the regions being celebrated.

At its heart, the aim is for families to leave with more than just memories of a fun day. Carnival also reflects the museum’s broader mission of serving as a community gathering place.

“I hope they walk away with a sense of joy about the holiday. I think it’s a beautiful, multicultural event,” Terzulli adds. “We want LICM to be a space where people come to learn about each other.”

Sunday, March 1, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors 65+ or students with ID; available at the door. Hofstra University, Monroe Lecture Center, California Ave., Hempstead. For information or reservations, call (631) 242-5684 or (516) 586-3433.

“Don’t stop believin’…

Voyage rocks on with another dynamic tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Voyage is celebrated for their uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound, energy and passion of one of rock’s greatest bands. With their blistering guitar solos, lush keyboard arrangements, electrifying stage presence, and stunning harmonies, the band has earned a reputation as the ultimate homage to Journey’s timeless music. Fronted by vocalist Pedro Espada, whose range and tone is acclaimed as rivaling the iconic Steve Perry, he’s backed by a lineup of world-class musicians — Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard, and Dana Spellman — who bring every note to life with precision and heart. Voyage doesn’t just perform Journey’s greatest hits — they transport audiences back to the height of arena rock glory.

Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

Feb

Roadway Safety Action Plan Meeting’

Lend your experiences to improving roadway safety at Long Beach Public Library. The City of Long Beach is developing an Action Plan to identify implementable strategies that will improve roadway safety and reduce fatalities and serious injuries. Discuss the latest about the state of roadway safety in Long Beach, share experiences thoughts on potential solutions. The meeting will begin with a brief presentation and then be followed by an opportunity to provide input Advance registration is preferred but not required.

• Where: 111 W. Park Ave.

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 431-1000

Feb 27

Sõ Percussion in concert

The Grammy-winning percussionists return to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center. For 25 years and counting, the quartet has redefined chamber music for the 21st century through an “exhilarating blend of precision and anarchy, rigor and bedlam” (The New Yorker). Their commitment to the creation and amplification of new work have made them a trusted partner for composers, allowing the writing of music that expands the style and capacity of brilliant voices of our time.

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or 9516) 877-4000

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave.,

Jessie’s Girl

MAR 6

and third Tuesday monthly. “Good and Welfare,” an opportunity for the public to speak on any topic pertaining to the City, is held following each regular meeting. Those who wish to speak must sign in prior to the start of the meeting.

• Where: 6th Floor, City Hall

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 431-1000

MAR

4

NY State of Health Marketplace Enrollment Assistance Information

Long Beach Public Library hosts a workshop on the NY State of Health marketplace. Obtain information and speak with a NY State of Health Insurance Enrollment Assistor about choosing a plan that is right for you. Registration required.

• Where: 111 West Park Ave.

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

• Contact: longbeachlibrary.org or (516) 432-7201

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Jessie’s Girl’s primary line-up includes a team of NYC’s top rock and pop vocalists: Jenna O’Gara, Jerome Bell-Bastien, and Mark Rinzel. They are backed by one of the tightest bands in the city comprised of 20+ year veterans of the NYC music scene: Eric Presti on guitar, Drew Mortali on bass, Michael Maenza on drums, and Karlee Bloom on Keys and the Keytar. Each with dozens of credits performing with authentic ‘80s icons who made the music famous to begin with! From the synth-pop glitz of the early MTV era to the power ballads of stadium rock, the band captures the specific magic that defined a generation. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Their motto: There’s no decade like the Eighties and no party like Back To The Eighties with Jessie’s Girl. Whether you lived through the ‘80s the first time or are just a fan of the timeless anthems, you’ll want to join in the fun.l.

Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon; also March 3-5

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

Feb

Winter Farmers Market

The market comes indoors at Bright Eye Beer Co. for a final session. Come sip and shop your way through the colder months with an incredible lineup of local farmers, makers, food vendors, and small businesses you know and love. Grab a craft beer, stock up on local goodies, and support the community.

• Where: 50 W. Park Ave.

• Time: 10 a.m-1 p.m.

• Contact: brighteyebeerco.com or (516) 543-5736

MAR 1

Art Perspectives

Nassau County Museum of Art welcomes acclaimed artist Adam Straus for engaging conversation with noted art critic-writer-filmmaker Amei Wallach. Together, they discuss artistic process, share insights current and past works,

and present images that illuminate the evolution of his practice. Their dialogue offers a unique window into the artist’ screative journey and the broader role of art in reflecting and responding to our contemporary world. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students. Limited seating, register in advance.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

Women’s Self-Defense

Women of all ages and fitness levels can build strength, safety and self-confidence. Whether you’re a total beginner or just want to sharpen your instincts, this foundational Krav Magabased course at Chabad of the Beaches is for you. The fourweek program covers everything from situational awareness to practical, real-world defensive techniques. $150 for all four sessions or $45 per session. Scholarships may be available upon request.

• Where: 570 W. Walnut St.

• Time: 10-11:30 a.m., also March 8, March 15 and March 22

• Contact: (347) 245-0824

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Metropolitan Klezmer

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to dress up and celebrate Purim — costumes encouraged and fun guaranteed! Enjoy a performance by Metropolitan Klezmer on the museum stage. The band brings eclectic exuberance to Yiddish musical genres from all over the map. Performing vibrant versions of lesser-known gems from wedding dance, trance, folk, swing and tango styles, as well as soundtrack material from vintage Yiddish films, they re-invent tradition with both irreverence and respect. Sing and dance along with us at this interactive family concert! Also make a grogger, the traditional noisemaker used during the telling of the Purim story at a drop-in program, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only

• Where: 11 Davis. Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

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

MAR

Long Beach City Council Meeting

The Long Beach City Council meets the first

MAR

6

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre students tackle Shakespeare. The Bard’s beloved comedy is a magical tale that explores the irrationality of love, desire, friendship, jealousy and magic. When the mortal worlds of four young lovers and a bungling group of amateur actors collide with a feuding fairy kingdom in a mystical forest on a midsummer eve, romantic misadventures ensue, causing chaos that only a bit of fairy magic can sort out.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.; also March 7, 2 and 8 p.m.; March 8, 3 p.m.

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

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

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET

SECURITIES CORPORATION

MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH

CERTIFICATES SERIES

2006-BC5, -againstPATRICIA BERKELEY, 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 3, 2025, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET

SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH

CERTIFICATES SERIES

2006-BC5 is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA BERKELEY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 10, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 520 LAURELTON BOULEVARD, LONG BEACH, NY 11561; and the following tax map identification: 59-56-1, 2, 3, 4 & 5. ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE CITY OF LONG BEACH, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610508/2020. James Pascarella, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 158255

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,

Plaintiff - against -

MICHAEL D’ANTONI

A/K/A MICHAEL DANTONI A/K/A

MICHAEL E. D’ANTONI A/K/A MICHAEL

EDWARD D’ANTONI, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 26, 2022. 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 17th day of March, 2026 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 30 Delaware Avenue, Long Beach, (City of Long Beach) NY 11561. (SBL#: 59-260-13)

Approximate amount of lien $292,309.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 608466/2019. Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

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

Dated: December 22, 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. 158308

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

CO-OP APARTMENT

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that pursuant to Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code, STEPHAN G. MARCELIN, Auctioneer, RICHARD J.

CANTWELL, Auctioneer, or RICHIE SCHULTZ, Auctioneer will sell at public auction with reserve to the highest bidder, on the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 12, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., security consisting of 580 shares of NEPTUNE TOWERS

COOPERATIVE, INC., in the name of PAUL GILGANNON, and all right, title and interest in and to a Proprietary Lease for Cooperative, located in a building known as and by the street address 25 NEPTUNE BOULEVARD, UNIT 4F, LONG BEACH, NEW YORK 11561, between PAUL GILGANNON as Lessee, NEPTUNE TOWERS

COOPERATIVE, INC., as Lessor.

This sale is held to satisfy an indebtedness of the unpaid principal balance, interest, attorney fees, and advances through March 12, 2026, and to enforce the rights of the U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR PRET 2024-RPL2 TRUST, the “Secured Party”, arising under a Security Agreement dated February 13, 2017, executed by and between PAUL GILGANNON and BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. The Secured Party reserves the right to bid. The Co-op Apartment will be sold “AS IS”, subject to open common charges, and possession is to be obtained by the purchaser.

DATED: February 12, 2026 Knuckles & Manfro, LLP

Attorneys for SECURED PARTY

120 White Plains Road Suite 215 Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 345-3020 158489

MORGAN MORTGAGE TRUST 2006-A4, Plaintiff, vs. SUSAN GONZALES, VINCENT GONZALES, IF LIVING, AND IF HE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 8, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 345 Lido Boulevard, Long Beach, NY 12047 a/k/a 11561. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Lido Beach, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 60, Block E and Lot 750. Approximate amount of judgment is $799,727.51 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 603991/2019.

Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 158483

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 03/11/2026 at 9:30

A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30

A.M. 143/26. POINT LOOKOUT - Daniel & Andrea Brereton, Variances, lot area occupied, front yard average setback, side

Qualified not-for-profit organizations may have an opportunity to receive up to $10,000.

Nonprofits can now apply to receive grant funding

By Chris ColuCCi ccolucci@liherald.com

The City of Long Beach is now accepting grant applications for funding under the Community Development Block Grant 52nd Program year. This competitive application is made available to local nonprofit organizations who seek small grants for eligible CDBG public service activities.

The CDBG program is a federally funded grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which delivers the funds to the Nassau County Office of Community Development, which may then provide the grant to the City of Long Beach. During a Feb. 17 Long Beach City Council meeting, City Manager Daniel Creighton explained that the grants can benefit not-for-profit organizations and “help the community in general.”

Eligible activities and plans must meet at least one predetermined HUD objective — provide a benefit to low/ moderate income persons; eliminate/ prevent slums and blight; or address an urgent community need. Potential proj-

ects include, but are not limited to, programs that address childcare, healthcare, employment training, recreation programs or facilities, education programs, substance abuse or mental health treatment, youth or senior services, food banks and more.

Successful applicants will have their project included in the city’s CDBG funding request to Nassau County. Grant awards are anticipated to be in the range of $4,000 to $10,000 per project. In 2023, for example, some CDBG recipients across Nassau County were provided $5,000 for historic preservation, $6,000 for neighborhood clean-ups and $8,500 for services for victims of domestic violence.

Applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. on March 1. Applications can be accessed at longbeachny. gov/community. After receiving and processing the applications, a public hearing will take place during the March 3 City Council meeting. The hearing will give residents, nonprofit representatives, and interested parties an opportunity to propose activities to include in the grant.

Public Notices

yards aggregate, rear yard, construct dwelling with garage., E/s Mineola Ave., 80’ S/o Lido Blvd., a/k/a 54 Mineola Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY

11550. This notice is only for new cases in Point Lookout within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of

the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come

it. 158565

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

F/T CHAIR SIDE DENTAL ASSISTANT Lynbrook Location. Experienced Individual With Impeccable Work Ethics. Immediate Opening. Email Resume To: nylaserendo@gmail.com Call 516-599-7111

HOUSE AIDE: Light Housekeeping, Laundry, Some Doctor's Visits. Car Required. Rockville Centre. 3 Hours/ Day, 2 Times/ Week. $17-$25/ Hour. Letter Of Experience To: peterhr@optimum.net

LABORER: CRG Construction Hiring. Minimum 5years Experience. $38-$56/ Hr. Long Beach. Matt (845) 323- 4153

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

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

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

OUTSIDE SALES

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

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS

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

RECEPTIONIST F/T

Valley Stream Subaru Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM

Answer Phones, Light Clerical $17.00/Hour, Benefits, 401K Call Therese 516-825-8700

Business/Opportunities

HomesHERALD

A Place to Call Home

W elcome to this elegant and expansive 5600 sq ft Hewlett Harbor residence built in 2004 on beautifully landscaped ¾ scre

What makes a basement a basement?‘finished’

Q. I have a basement with a bathroom and nothing else except a washer and dryer, back to back, with the sink and toilet on the other side of the wall. Everything else is unfinished, and I bought it this way. I was recently told that I need to have a permit for a finished basement or I have to remove the bathroom. I don’t want either of those options, but I’m being told I will be issued a violation, because the building department sent me a notice about this. I consulted an architect, who started to explain all the rules, but I need a second opinion. What should I do if I just want the bathroom and don’t want to finish everything else?

WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

A. Sorry to disappoint you, but your building department has interpreted that your bathroom in a basement is leading to habitable use, meaning that the basement is more than just a place to store boxes and other household items. The same is true of basements that have a fireplace or a mattress-and-night-table setup. Even occasional use by a houseguest puts you in the category of a “finished” basement.

What the consultant architect may have told you is that you’ll either have to remove the bathroom, with a permit for the demolition (since your building department knows about the condition) and a separate plumbing permit to have the capping of pipes inspected, or you’ll need a lot of other items, at greater expense. Your spaces will need to meet the ceiling height requirement of 80 inches from floor to finished ceiling, or anything constricting someone from walking around, such as a steam pipe or built soffit. If you don’t have 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches), then the rest of what you do will also be important to evaluate, since your plans and application paperwork will be on hold until the requirement is appealed through a separate codeappeal process, and more paperwork will need to be submitted to the state for a code compliance variance. This means you will have to request to vary or be allowed an exception after evaluation by a review board at the state level.

Either way, a finished basement will require a second means to escape in an emergency. This can be accomplished with a larger window, with an opening no higher than 44 inches from the floor and at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, a minimum of 24 inches in height and 20 inches in width. A window that is only 20 inches by 24 inches would not meet the requirement, however. Those are just minimums for each dimension.

The escape well has to be a minimum of 9 square feet of outside floor area, and must at least have a ladder for climbing up and away. You could also have a door and stairwell, with proper drainage, at even greater expense. There’s more, so wait until next week.

© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Cable/TV/Wiring

AFFORDABLE

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Electricians

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Home Improvement

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CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

Home Improvement

DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

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Miscellaneous

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Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. Family Plumbing. 516-825-3606

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OpiniOns Stephen Miller’s politics of sabotage

Every administration has its ideologues. Every president has advisers who translate impulse into policy. But once in a while, a single figure emerges whose real work is not governance but sabotage — the deliberate narrowing of civic life.

In Donald Trump’s White House, that figure is Stephen Miller.

Miller is often described as the architect of Trump’s immigration agenda.

That may be true, but it’s incomplete. Immigration is simply the most visible stage on which Miller operates. The deeper project is broader and more corrosive: a politics designed to make Americans afraid — not only of immigrants, but of one another, and of acting freely in public life.

Miller’s real architecture isn’t just about who gets in. It’s about what kind of country we become.

The through-line is intimidation. The point isn’t merely enforcement but atmosphere: to show that the state can reach into your life suddenly, harshly,

without apology. To make people think twice before speaking, gathering, helping or dissenting. To shrink civic space until citizenship itself begins to feel conditional. In such a climate, obedience becomes the safest form of participation, and democracy begins to feel like a risk.

That’s why Miller matters. He isn’t simply a policy adviser. He is both symptom and accelerant — a product of a political sickness and one of its most effective carriers. The sickness is the belief that democracy is too messy, pluralism too dangerous, compassion too soft. Miller gives that belief bureaucratic form.

idone profound damage. And once that atmosphere is established, the most vulnerable are always the first to suffer the worst of it.

n a Millershaped America, protest would be treated as menace.

Miller’s defenders characterize him as “tough.” But toughness isn’t the same as callousness. A serious country can enforce laws without turning the machinery of government into an engine of humiliation. Miller’s politics depend on a story: that America is perpetually under siege, that outsiders are threats, that pluralism is weakness, that empathy is naïveté.

tions would be staffed by loyalty, not expertise; protest would be treated as menace; law would be less a shield than a club; and citizenship would be a conditional permit, not a shared inheritance. It’s tempting, and comforting, to say, “The Constitution will save us.” It won’t. Constitutions don’t rescue republics by themselves. They are frameworks, not force fields. They depend on officials who honor them, courts that enforce them, legislators who defend their authority, and citizens who refuse to be intimidated into silence.

It’s not a secret that his fingerprints are on some of the harshest immigration measures of the last decade, including family separation at the southern border — a policy widely condemned because it treats children not as human beings, but as instruments of deterrence. Whatever you believe about border control, using suffering as a message is a show of cruelty, not strength. But the deeper lesson is about power. A government that can make ordinary people afraid — afraid to speak, gather, help or dissent — has already

Civil rights organizations have raised alarms for years about Miller’s proximity to white nationalist rhetoric. The Southern Poverty Law Center took the extraordinary step of listing him in its extremist files. That is not a marginal controversy; it goes to the moral and ideological foundations of the policies he designs. Whether you accept every charge or not, the pattern is difficult to miss: Miller’s governing worldview is built on suspicion — of difference, of openness, of the very idea of a shared civic “we.”

In a Miller-shaped America, the safest posture would be silence; institu-

The danger of Stephen Miller’s politics is that they treat laws not as a restraint but as an instrument — something to stretch, weaponize and exhaust until rights feel theoretical and the public stops believing that resistance matters.

So the question isn’t whether the Constitution can save us. The question is whether Americans will still insist on the constitutional order itself: limits on power, equal citizenship, lawful process, and a public life in which fear isn’t the organizing principle.

Miller’s project runs in the other direction. And if it succeeds, no piece of parchment will protect us.

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

The challenge of celebrating Black History Month

On Feb. 5, not long after Black History Month began, President Trump’s Truth Social account posted a video depicting former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as apes. In response to criticism from Republicans, the video was removed the next day, but with no apology from the president.

That’s the immediate context in which Black History Month takes place, but it’s been an entire year since the last celebration of this month, during which the Trump administration has advanced white supremacy and moved aggressively to undermine America’s longstanding commitment to diversity.

The administration’s support for white supremacy isn’t new. In November 2019, in Trump’s first term, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights called for the firing of Trump adviser Stephen Miller, stating, “Stephen Miller represents white supremacy, violent extremism, and hate — all ideologies that are antithetical to

the fundamental values that guide our democracy. Allowing him to remain a White House advisor is a betrayal of our national ideals of justice, inclusion, and fairness.”

Yet in the second Trump administration, Miller has even more power. As Ashley Parker, of the Atlantic, told NPR recently, “He’s incredibly powerful. Steve Bannon and other people jokingly call him the prime minister.”

Miller is perhaps best known, as NPR reports, as “a chief architect of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.”

The Trump government has undermined our country’s commitment to diversity.

That crackdown has generated intense public opposition due to the killings in Minneapolis of two American citizens with no criminal records by ICE officers. Because ICE is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, it ironically shares the department’s mission to “safeguard the American people.” That irony is not lost on Americans, and the public response to those two deaths has echoed the outcry after the 2020 killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers.

The irony of the administration continues, as the White House acts to ensure that America’s schools instill, in the words of Executive Order 14190, “a

patriotic admiration for our incredible Nation and the values for which we stand” — while detaining children through ICE crackdowns at accelerating rates. As MS NOW reports, “Recent independent analysis by the Marshall Project shows that the number of children held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement has skyrocketed in Trump’s second term — from an average of about 25 children detained per day during the final 16 months of Biden’s presidency to about 170 children per day under Trump.” On some days, the analysis found, “ICE held 400 children or more.”

What values, exactly, are those detained children learning at the hands of the administration? What values are all children learning as they witness detentions of other children, day care workers and young parents? These are actions of cruelty, not respect for human life and liberty. They are acts of lawlessness, not patriotism.

Now the administration proposes to change the way we vote in America. As The New York Times reports, “President Trump has repeatedly suggested that he wants the Republican-led federal government to ‘nationalize,’ or ‘take over,’

the running of elections.” His allies in Congress are simultaneously advancing legislation — the Make Elections Great Again, or MEGA, Act — that would make voting more difficult. These proposals completely ignore the fact that elections in the United States are free and fair.

As the Brennan Center for Justice writes, “In 2025, a new threat to free and fair elections emerged: the federal government. Since day one of his second term, the Trump administration has attempted to rewrite election rules to burden voters and usurp control of election systems, targeted and threatened election officials and others who keep elections free and fair, supported people who undermine election administration, and retreated from the federal government’s role of protecting voters and the electoral process.”

Nationalizing state elections is blatantly unconstitutional, and the legislative actions would make voting more difficult. That is exactly what this White House and its allies want to achieve.

As Black History Month continues, and in the months and years ahead, ERASE Racism will be championing inclusiveness, fairness and justice for all.

Elaine Gross is founder and president emerita of ERASE Racism, a regional civil rights organization based on Long Island.

opinions Another baseball season full of hope

The arrival of spring training, and the anticipation of another baseball season, brings back great memories. My earliest baseball memories date back to the early 1950s and the Brooklyn Dodgers, the famed “Boys of Summer,” in what is now regarded as the sport’s Golden Age. Baseball was the unquestioned national pastime, and New York’s Yankees, Dodgers and Giants were the dominant teams. From 1947 to 1956, the Yankees won eight league pennants, the Dodgers six and the Giants two.

For nine of those 10 seasons, at least one World Series teams was from New York, and for eight years, both teams were. That was a true monopoly of excellence.

The Dodgers teams of my youth included such Hall of Famer players as Jackie Robinson, Pee Wee Reese, Roy Campanella, Duke Snider and Gil Hodges. There was nothing better than sitting in the stands at Ebbets Field, watching these stars excel. (Tickets for bleacher seats cost 75 cents!) As mighty as the

Dodgers were, however, the Yankees, led by legendary stars like Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra and Whitey Ford, prevailed in five of the teams’ six World Series encounters.

And then, in 1957, Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley announced the unthinkable: He would move the Dodgers from Brooklyn to Los Angeles the following year, and the Giants would go to San Francisco. My childhood had come to a crashing halt. National League baseball would be gone from New York.

JMy final goodbye to the Dodgers would come on Sept. 22, 1957, when I went to their final home day game at Ebbets Field. Brooklyn beat the Phillies, 7-3, and Duke Snider hit two home runs, but that was small consolation. Dodgers baseball in New York, and my years of sports innocence, were behind me. National League baseball didn’t return to New York until the Mets arrived in 1962. They were an expansion team, which meant they were composed of players others teams didn’t want. There were some rough, lean years, but to Mets fans, it didn’t matter. They rallied behind the team, and after seven seasons, and many losses, the 1969 Mira-

cle Mets, led by their manager, Dodgers legend Gil Hodges, won the World Series in a never-to-be-forgotten triumph over the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles.

ust one example: thousands of area kids looking forward to Little League.

The Mets captured the Series again in 1986, defeating the Red Sox in a memorable seven-game struggle. There have been several good runs since then that fell just short, including a World Series defeat to Kansas City in 2015 and, most recently, a League Championship Series loss to the Dodgers in 2024. Now the Mets face the 2026 season having decided to go forward without their all-time leading home run hitter, Pete Alonso, and star relief pitcher Edwin Diaz, as well as proven veterans Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil. Their core four are gone. For Mets fans, spring training will be filled with questions and unknown answers.

I know that baseball has changed dramatically since years ago. There are almost twice as many teams now as there were then; players move from team to team, season to season; and teams regularly play inter-league games. As well, the Super Bowl has surpassed the World Series in public attention, and sports such as hockey and bas-

ketball crowd the calendar, playing well into the baseball season.

But still, that sense of anticipation remains. There is something about the fresh spring air and the crack of the bat that brings our attention back to the baseball diamond. The distances from the pitcher’s mound to home plate, and between the bases, remain the same, as do ball and strike counts. And, especially on Long Island, many thousands of kids are looking forward to playing Little League baseball in a new season, when, as always, their parents and grandparents will be in the stands, cheering them on. They’ll create new memories that, in years to come, they’ll pass on to their children and grandchildren.

No matter the rule changes or league realignments, baseball will remain unchanged as an essential component of the American fabric. Almost 75 years ago, the renowned cultural historian Jacques Barzun famously proclaimed, “Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball.” That is as true today as it was then, and I believe it will be true for generations to come.

Play ball!

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

Ed Ra’s new post is good for Long Island

Having spent 23 years of my life in the State Assembly, I keep close contact with members and monitor the progress of significant legislation. I make it a point to call individual members to encourage them to take action on proposals that are good for Long Island. Which is why I was thrilled that Republican Assemblyman Ed Ra was chosen as minority leader earlier this month, in a unanimous vote.

Living as a bipartisan person, I have been supportive of Ra in his many roles as an elected official. During his 10 years in office he has been a proactive legislator, proposing laws focusing affordability, antisemitism, workforce development and controlling state costs. I was especially pleased when he became the ranking minority member of the Ways and Means Committee.

I had the good fortune to chair that

committee for 10-plus years, and have great respect for committee members who pay attention to pending laws and ask questions. Ra has been a diligent member of the committee, and he has kept the majority members on their toes. Ways and Means is the most important committee in the Assembly, and it desperately needs members who keep an eye on the 7,000plus bills that are sent to it each year.

He’s worked hard to become the Assembly’s Republican minority leader.

Ra is the third Assembly member from Long Island in my career who has held the title of minority leader. The late Assembly members Perry B. Duryea and Jack Kingston also held that job. Duryea eventually became the speaker, and holding the minority post was a springboard to the top job. I know for a fact that Ra didn’t get the leadership job without a lot of preparation, forging coalitions to win the support of the minority caucus.

I doubt that even the Republican leaders on Long Island fully understand what it took for Ra to get his new job. Over the years he has taken on all of the

thankless jobs that most members do not covet. He has been involved in reviewing all of the bills that affect the Island, and for a few years he acted as the Republican floor leader, organizing debates on bills advanced by the majority. It’s the job of minority members to craft credible arguments opposing majority legislation.

There’s a separate issue that most of the Albany establishment doesn’t understand. The Assembly’s Republican membership is dominated by upstate legislators. They tend to be anti-downstate, and want all of the key jobs for their delegation. If you talk to an upstate Republican member, don’t be surprised if he or she is anti-Long Island. They are jealous of the attention Long Island gets, and many think negatively about the downstate region in general.

When the previous minority leader, Will Barclay, an upstater, announced that he wouldn’t seek re-election this year, the upstaters immediately began to caucus to support one of their own to

keep the job in their region. At the same time, Ra had to move quickly to win a majority of the conference. That backroom stuff happens in any type of legislative body, and it takes political smarts to pull it off.

Why make a fuss about the election of an assemblyman who’s in the minority party? We’re a very big island, with multiple needs and demands. We need all the voices we can get to speak out for the bi-county area. New York City legislators have a strong voice on a variety of issues, and the Island has to fight for recognition when the dollars are being disbursed and laws are passing that help other areas of the state.

Last year I wrote a column singling out Democratic Assemblywoman Mickey Solages and Ra for their hard work in Albany. I was pleased then and now that Ra has advanced in his party leadership. Solages is a rising star in the Democratic Party, and I’m happy that Ra is now a part of the four-way leadership.

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

Long Island students need news literacy

on Long Island, where school boards debate curriculum priorities and districts navigate tight budgets, one subject can no longer be treated as optional: media literacy.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, students scroll through a relentless stream of headlines, commentary and viral content, frequently without formal instruction on how to tell the difference between verified reporting and misinformation.

In an era when misinformation travels faster than facts and algorithms reward outrage over accuracy, the future of journalism and civic trust hinges on what young people understand about news.

A November 2025 study from the News Literacy Project makes the stakes unmistakably clear: Teenagers are not rejecting journalism outright, but they are struggling to distinguish it from everything else crowding their feeds.

The nationwide study builds on a troubling News Literacy Project 2024 finding that 45 percent of teens believed journalists harmed democracy. But the new research goes further, examining not just skepticism but the roots of distrust — and the confusion at its core.

Teens often lump professional reporting, partisan commentary and outright online misinformation into a single category: “news.” When everything looks the same, nothing earns trust.

However, there is a mandate for action. An overwhelming 94 percent of teens said news or media literacy should

be part of their education. They are not tuning out because they don’t care. They are asking for help.

The problem is access. Only 39 percent of students reported receiving any media literacy instruction during the prior school year. More than six in 10 teens are left to decode a complex information ecosystem by themselves. They scroll through algorithm-driven headlines, influencer commentary masquerading as reporting and viral misinformation engineered for emotional impact — often without being taught how to verify a claim or evaluate a source.

That gap isn’t just an educational oversight. It is a civic vulnerability.

According to Donnell Probst, executive director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education, the most effective time to teach these skills is early, before beliefs harden and misinformation calcifies into identity.

Encouragingly, instruction works. Students who had lessons in media literacy were more likely to seek out news, and reported higher levels of trust in journalists. This is measurable impact backed by research.

Long Island school districts should take note.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, some schools offer journalism electives or student newspapers. Others offer none. According to a 2022 survey by Baruch College, 73 percent of New York City public schools lacked student newspapers — with access concentrated in private and selective schools. The same inequities often surface on Long Island,

where opportunities vary widely by district.

The decline of school newspapers and journalism classes compounds the media literacy crisis. These programs teach students what real journalism requires: cultivating sources, verifying facts, and asking tough follow-up questions.

If we want a generation that values journalism, we must first ensure that it understands journalism. This isn’t a “kids these days” problem. It is a larger one — and it is also a business imperative for local news organizations across Long Island. If the next generation cannot differentiate between a reported investigation and a viral conspiracy thread, it will not subscribe to, support or defend professional journalism.

Doubling down on media literacy in school curriculums is no longer optional. It should be embedded across grade levels, integrated into English and social studies classes and reinforced through experiential learning like student newsrooms. Policymakers should treat media literacy as foundational civic infrastructure, not a niche elective.

News organizations on Long Island must also step forward and partner with schools, open newsrooms, support media literacy initiatives and provide mentorship and transparency about how reporting is done.

The answer isn’t louder defenses of journalism, but deeper public understanding — teaching media literacy so people can recognize misinformation and think critically for themselves.

When public education becomes a business

If you turn on a local radio station, chances are you’ll hear a commercial for a new and upcoming charter school in the area. These schools are being promoted as a new and improved alternative to our current public schools. As they continue to spread across Long Island, we, the taxpaying community members, need to ask these questions: Why the sudden influx?

And who is benefiting financially from these charter schools?

While public schools across the Island are currently facing tight budgets, staffing shortages and increasing numbers of students with greater needs, how can we take money slated for these students and schools to line someone else’s pocket? It’s time for the community to question where the tax dollars that we voted to send to our public schools are actually going. Don’t we deserve transparency and accountability for every one of those dollars?

Charter schools promote themselves

as public schools, since they’re funded by taxpayers and families don’t pay outof-pocket tuition. But unlike public schools, these institutions aren’t watched over by elected boards of education. Who approves a charter school budget? In public schools, budgets are presented to the community over the course of several board meetings. Community members then have an opportunity to question the spending plans and ultimately vote to accept or reject them.

As charter schools continue to spread, taxpayers should be asking questions.

On the other hand, charter schools receive money directly from public schools. They are able to spend money without being accountable to the community that provides them with these funds. Their budgets are never presented to their communities, and the local school districts are unable to see where the money is going. Their spending isn’t approved by voters, and communities can’t monitor how their tax money is being spent. This lack of transparency allows public money to be spent without any accountability or oversight.

Many of the charter schools that are popping up across Long Island are run

by private management companies, real estate firms and vendors who profit from public funds. These companies often aren’t even local. They don’t have any vested interest in the community. They look at the school as a business where they don’t educate all children, but rather essentially hand-pick the students they want.

Students with special needs, or for whom English is a second language, or who have behavioral problems or learning difficulties, are often sent out of charter schools and back to public schools — which open their doors to them and welcome them. They educate every student who walks through those doors, regardless of their need. Public schools also absorb the full cost of educating them. When funding is redirected from public schools to charter schools, districts are often forced to cut programs, increase class sizes and delay crucial building repairs.

And when it comes to buildings, have you noticed how structures at charter schools can seem to be constructed overnight? This doesn’t happen because charter school administrations are more efficient. It happens because while

public schools are required to disclose contractors’ bids on capital projects, charter schools can erect a building, add an extension or do major renovations with no bidding, no approval and, once again, no community oversight. If these are publicly funded improvements using taxpayers’ dollars, shouldn’t we all be held to the same standards? This raises more questions about transparency, accountability and equality.

This isn’t about opposing school choice. It’s about making sure that public education doesn’t become a moneymaker for big business rather than an organization to educate our students. The message here is about fiscal and educational transparency. If charter schools really claim to serve the public, then shouldn’t we see how our tax dollars are being spent?

When school budgets are created, we, the taxpayers, should have a voice in the process. That money we provide should go toward educational programs for classrooms, and books and resources for children. The budgets we approve should support learning. Our tax dollars belong with the children, not in a corporation’s pocket.

Alison Chaplar, of Massapequa, is a longtime public school educator, a mother and a community advocate.

Your opinion Matters

Your opinion Matters

Your opinion Matters

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

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