Seniors at East Rockaway High School and Lynbrook High marked major wins on March 13, as East Rockaway’s class of 2026 took first place in the 90th annual Rock Rivalry, and Lynbrook seniors claimed top honors at the 98th annual Class Night competition, continuing the schools’ longstanding tradition of spirited class contests. Stories, more photos, pages 3, 10.
By KAYl A DECHTER kdechter@liherald.com
Moving in and out of classrooms like doctors on rotation, Lynbrook North Middle School sixth-graders learned about vaping, stress, cyberbullying and other health topics during a health expo led by Molloy University nursing students.
The event, on March 11 at the middle school, divided students in groups of about 15 and rotated them through 10-minute presentations for nearly 90 minutes.
The sessions were designed to introduce middle-schoolers to real-world health issues, and to the idea of making healthy decisions as they grow older.
taking health this year might know already,” Bowes told the sixth-graders. “Impress the students of Molloy Nursing and learn more about each topic.”
In one presentation, Molloy students Lielle Aranbayev and Salvatore Bacarella discussed smoking and vaping, asking students how they would respond if a friend offered them a vape.
“No!” the class replied in unison.
HElEN DuBiNSKY Assistant professor of nursing, Molloy University
North Middle School health teacher Brian Bowes, who helped organize the event, said that students from Molloy’s nursing program have been visiting the school for the past six years.
“The idea of the health fair today is to expand your knowledge of a number of different health topics that some of you
The pair explained how nicotine can affect the body, including raising blood pressure and damaging the lungs. Bacarella also pointed out that vaping and smoking can impact athletic performance. “If you’re an athlete, it makes working out and moving your body much harder,” he said.
Students were also encouraged to share what they learned with family members who smoke. Several responded that smoking is addictive and can lead to serious health problems such as cancer.
Another session focused on
Continued on page 5
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
Nassau County’s three town supervisors gathered place at the Brian Moore Athletic Center in Plainedge Park, along with local officials and law enforcement families to highlight a new property tax exemption for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty.
The announcement with Hempstead’s John Ferretti, Oyster Bay’s Joseph Saladino and North Hempstead’s Jen DeSena took place on March 11; one day after the Oyster Bay Town Board unanimously approved the exemption.
Brian Moore, a Plainedge High School graduate and New York City police officer was shot and killed in Queens in 2015. His father, Ray Moore, attended the news conference.
Hevery single day! We hope that this new legislation provides some relief and assistance to those left behind.”
The exemption applies only to the town portion of property tax bills. School districts, fire districts, villages and other municipalities must adopt their own legislation to offer similar relief.
Several Long Island towns — Babylon, Brookhaven, Hempstead, Huntington, Islip and Oyster Bay — have already enacted the exemption. The North Hempstead town board is expected to consider the measure next month.
ere in Nassau County, we back the blue.
JOHN FErrEttI
Hempstead town supervisor
The measure allows surviving spouses to receive a 50 percent exemption on the town portion of property taxes for their primary residence. The program was authorized by legislation approved by the State Legislature and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in late 2025.
“Here in Nassau County, we back the blue,” Ferretti said, adding “we have never taken for granted the many sacrifices made by Nassau County police officers
“The men and women who put service before self, people who risked their own lives to protect our lives and sometimes just our property,” Saladino said. “No law could repay what they gave,” adding the exemption is “one of many meaningful ways that we can show their families that the sacrifice of their loved ones will always be appreciated, and that they did not die in vain.”
DeSena said the exemption recognizes the risks police officers take to protect residents.
Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti discussed the property tax exemption on March 11. North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, left, and Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, right.
“There is no greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends,” she said, quoting the Gospel of John, “this is what the men and women in blue do for us. They are dedicated, they are trained, and they go out every day and put their lives between danger and we the residents they protect. Nassau County is the safest county in the country thanks to the men and women in blue.”
Nassau County Superior Officers Association Vice President Keith Jaklitsch thanked local leaders for adopting the measure.
“The families of fallen officers cannot be forgotten,” he said, adding that the exemption was something “that actually should have been done a long time ago.”
East Rockaway High School marks 90th Rock Rivalry with student performances East Rockaway High School celebrated the 90th year of its Rock Rivalry tradition on March 13, highlighted by the event’s signature “Entrance” performances.
Each class spent weeks preparing original productions featuring storylines, music, choreography, costumes and elaborate sets created entirely by students. The performances were staged twice — once for the student body and again for families — before the final results were announced.
The senior class took first place in this year’s competition, followed by the sophomores, juniors and freshmen.
Rock Rivalry, first created in 1936 as a fundraiser for the school’s athletic department, has grown into one of East Rockaway’s most cherished traditions, showcasing student creativity, teamwork and school pride each year.
This year’s entrance performances included “Tiki Turmoil” by the freshmen, “Bourbon Street Never Sleeps” by the sophomores and “A Tale of Flame and Frost” by the juniors.
The senior class earned first place with its entrance performance, “How We Trained Our Vikings.” Sophomores
Balloons marking the 90th anniversary of East Rockaway High School’s Rock Rivalry decorate the venue during this year’s competition, celebrating the longstanding tradition.
placed second, followed by juniors and freshmen
— Kayla Dechter
Families dressed in costume gathered at the Long Island Children’s Museum on March 1 to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim with music, crafts and interactive activities.
The New York-based band Metropolitan Klezmer performed a lively concert featuring Yiddish musical styles from across the genre, including wedding dance, folk, swing and tango influences, along with selections inspired by vintage Yiddish film soundtracks. The interactive performance encouraged children and families to sing and dance along.
In addition to the concert, children participated in hands-on craft activities and showed off colorful Purim costumes as part of the celebration.
The event highlighted the cultural traditions of Purim, a Jewish holiday that commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia.
— Stacy Driks
during a Metropolitan Klezmer concert at the Long Island Children’s Museum on March 1 as part of a Purim celebration featuring music, crafts and interactive activities.
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drugs and alcohol. Nursing students
Mikayla Berry and Kara Colgan explained that the brain’s frontal lobe — which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control — does not fully develop until around age 26. Because of that, they emphasized the importance of refusing drugs and alcohol and protecting brain health during adolescence.
Students practiced ways to decline offers assertively, and discussed how early decisions can influence their future health and opportunities.
Stress and anxiety were the focus of a presentation led by Molloy students Jessica Mauro and Isabel Interiano Jordan. Asked what situations caused them stress, many students said tests and schoolwork.
Mauro explained that not all stress is harmful. “A little bit of stress before a test can motivate you to study and prepare,” she said, noting that the feeling can encourage responsibility and better performance.
The presenters also shared strategies to manage stress, including breathing exercises and other techniques to calm the body.
Another topic was cyberbullying, and nursing students Madison Leonard and Marshele Juste asked students if they had ever encountered bullying online.
One student shared a personal experience. “Someone sent a picture of me to a
group chat with a few kids in the class, and I did not give them permission to share it,” she said.
Several classmates reacted immediately, saying they would feel upset or embarrassed if something like that happened to them. Others nodded in agreement.
The discussion then turned toward the importance of consent and respect when sharing images or information online. Students agreed that cyberbullying is wrong, and said they would turn to a trusted adult if they ever experienced or witnessed something similar.
The final presentations focused on personal hygiene and sleep habits, led by Molloy students Melanie McIntyre and Jake Marino. Students reviewed proper
tooth-brushing techniques and discussed how nighttime routines affect sleep quality.
McIntyre explained that electronic devices should be avoided for about an hour before bedtime because the light from screens interferes with the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Students also learned that eating immediately before bed can cause indigestion and disrupt sleep.
One middle-schooler shared a relatable experience during the discussion.
“I don’t know what restaurants put in their food, but I get really sleepy after eating out with my family,” she said.
McIntyre explained that feeling tired after eating is common, but students
should remain upright for about a half hour before lying down so the body has time to digest food properly, and avoid discomfort during sleep.
At the conclusion of the event, students gathered in the gym and were encouraged to apply what they had learned to their daily lives. Bowes said the expo gave them the chance to hear important health information from those outside their usual classroom instruction.
“This is a great experience for the students at Lynbrook North Middle School to be able to get health information from a different resource than they’re used to,” he said.
Helen Dubinsky, an assistant professor of nursing at Molloy, said the program is also valuable for the nursing students leading the sessions. “The nursing students learn a lot from the program as well — team building, brainstorming and how to interact with children regarding issues they might face in their future careers as nurses,” Dubinsky explained. “Many of them are interested in pediatrics.”
She added that the event combines education with community engagement. “This event is a merger of the community and education,” Dubinsky said. “Our students take care in choosing how to present each topic to younger audiences, and it’s important for them to learn about this before experiencing it.”
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
Hofstra’s men’s lacrosse team reached the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) tournament last spring for the first since 2021 and longtime head coach Seth Tierney hopes that building block lays a solid foundation for a bigger climb.
The Pride reached the CAA semifinals and just missed out on the opportunity to play for a conference title with an 11-10 overtime heartbreaking loss at topseeded Towson. Hofstra brought back plenty of key pieces from that breakthrough season looking to write a different script this May, but returning to the four-team CAA postseason stage will come down to crucial regular season contests against closely-matched opponents.
“The CAA games just take on a different meaning and they have a lot of weight because they’re technically playoff games without being in the playoffs,” said Tierney, who is also the U.S. Men’s Senior National Team head coach as it gears up for 2027 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship, in Japan next year. “They’re tiebreaker games and every time that you can get a win then you can get a tiebreaker over that team not knowing how the future is going to play out.”
Hofstra opened CAA play March 13 with a 12-7 setback at Long Island rival Stony Brook which puts even more weight on Pride’s upcoming conference games.
The Pride (2-5) entered the season with plenty of promise seeing three returning players named to the preseason All-CAA team in red-shirt senior attackman Trevor Natalie, red-shirt junior defenseman Austin Clarke and red-shirt sophomore goalie Shea Kennedy. Natalie was also named a preseason USA Lacrosse AllAmerican after a 2025 season in which he tallied 40 points on 28 goals and 12 assists.
Natalie leads Hofstra in goals through seven games with 16 including three in a hard-fought 11-8 loss to Big Ten foe Rutgers on Feb. 28. The Stuart, Fla. native also tallied four goals in Hofstra’s 14-7 season-opening win at Iona on Feb. 2.
The offense is also led by senior attackman Anthony Mollica, who registered a career-best six goals in Hofstra’s 11-10 home win against UMBC on March 7. Mollica, a former Massapequa High School standout, has 11 goals and nine assists so far this season after tallying 50 points as a junior.
“Anthony is this quiet leader who leads by example with a quiet voice,” Tierney said. “He works hard and he is reaping the rewards.”
The Pride offense boasts plenty of other scoring weapons including senior midfielder Trey Parkes, sophomore attackman Drew Bogardus, redshirt sopho-
more midfielder Joey DeYoung and freshman attackman Gus Langtry.
Langtry, who was ranked 94th on Nike/Inside Lacrosse Power 100 Freshman Rankings out of Parker, Colo., is off to a strong start in his collegiate career with 10 goals including three in the Rutgers loss. He has solid lacrosse genes as the son of former Hofstra All-American Brian Langry.
“He’s got some great DNA and some great characteristics,” said Tierney of Langtry. “He is a very confident and skilled player.”
The close defense is anchored by Clarke, a Parkton, Md. native who recorded 24 ground balls and 13 caused turnovers last season. Redshirt senior Will Delaney also brings veteran experience in front of the cage after registering 20 ground balls last season.
Kennedy patrols the net for a second straight season after making 167 saves last year. He is off to another strong start this season with 83 saves and 54 percent save percentage so far this season.
Hofstra will host Monmouth in a critical CAA game this Saturday at 1 p.m. at Shuart Stadium. The Pride also has a big conference home game against Fairfield on April 4 at 3 p.m. and will face Ivy League power Yale in anon-league tilt on April 14 at 7 p.m.
Lynbrook firefighters helped battle a stubborn truck fire alongside Valley Stream crews on March 16, 2025, just west of the village border near Horton Avenue.
The fire was reported at 10:21 a.m. on Sunrise Highway, where a recycling truck carrying a heavy load of compacted material caught fire. Valley Stream firefighters began an aggressive attack, stretching a hose line to the truck, but the tightly packed debris made it difficult to reach the core of the blaze.
To improve access, ladder units were put into operation, allowing firefighters to pour water from above into the container.
With conditions proving challenging, assistance was requested from the Lynbrook Fire Department. Chief Clayton Murphy responded with Ladder 427 and Engine 422. Lynbrook firefighters positioned their ladder on the opposite side of the truck and directed water down into the load, working in coordination with Valley Stream crews.
Firefighters from both departments worked for about an hour before bringing the fire under control.
— Kayla Dechter
By ROKSANA AMID, ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & ABBEY SALVEMINI of the Herald Community Newspapers
Fourth installment in a series about water.
Flooding streets, polluted bays and aging infrastructure are reshaping life along Nassau and Suffolk counties’ coasts. From the barrier island neighborhoods of Long Beach and Island Park to the waterways of the Great South Bay and Hempstead Harbor, communities are confronting the growing impacts of rising water, runoff and environmental strain.
Across Long Island, scientists and planners say, climate change, development patterns and aging infrastructure are converging to create new risks for coastal communities.
Heavy rain can quickly overwhelm parts of Nassau County’s South Shore. In the West End of Long Beach, storm drains can fill within minutes as water pools at intersections, climbs curbs and creeps toward front steps. In nearby Freeport, residents sometimes wade through ankle-deep water along canal-side streets. In a Facebook poll from the Herald, residents of Oceanside and Island Park were invited to share experiences with bayside flooding.
Heavy rain combined with high tide, residents say, can push water back up through storm drains. Major flooding events, they report, have struck several times in recent years. High tides — particularly during a new moon and combined with strong winds — can bring roughly a foot of water onto some blocks.
Across the South Shore, flooding is no longer unusual. In many communities, it has become a regular part of life.
Long Beach and Island Park sit on narrow barrier islands only a few feet above sea level, while Freeport and Oceanside stretch along canals and bays that funnel water inland. All four communities connect through Reynolds Channel and the Western Bays, allowing tidal surges to move freely between them.
Much of the infrastructure in and beneath these communities — storm drains, sewer lines and bulkheads — was built decades ago, before sea levels began rising and extreme rainfall became more common.
“When you look at repeated flooding in coastal places like Long Beach and Freeport,” Amy Chester, managing director of the climate resilience nonprofit Rebuild by Design, said, “a huge part of the vulnerability comes down to how these neighborhoods were originally built, where houses went, how high they were built and what infrastructure was put underneath them.”
Many South Shore communities expanded rapidly during the post–World War II housing boom. Natural landscapes that once absorbed rainfall were replaced with pavement and development, while stormwater systems were designed with the assumption that rain would fall and simply drain away. Today, that assumption often proves faulty.
Flooding now shapes daily life in many South Shore neighborhoods. Many residents move their cars to higher ground when storms threaten. Others install
pumps in crawlspaces to push water back outside, though many say it still seeps back in. For many households, flooding now affects everyday decisions — from where to park to whether work or school schedules may change.
And flooding doesn’t stop at municipal borders. Rain falling in higher-elevation communities such as Lynbrook eventually flows downhill toward the bay. During intense storms, runoff travels from Nassau’s glacial high points on the North Shore toward its lowest-lying southern communities.
“If you look at the topography, it’s the result of a terminal moraine left by a glacier,” said Georgeen Theodore, an architect and urban planner with Interboro Partners. “Water flows from the high point to the low point. What happens to a town on the bay is connected to towns uphill.”
Because of that connection, Theodore said, climate resilience must be addressed regionally. “Climate vulnerability cannot be solved by one village alone,” she said.
In Long Beach, the highest elevations are along the oceanfront, descending toward Reynolds Channel, where flooding is more common. Similar patterns appear along Freeport’s canals and along Island Park’s lowest blocks, where water tends to pond first and recede last.
Many resilience programs focus on homeowners, offering grants to elevate houses or retrofit properties. Renters, and residents of multifamily buildings, often have fewer options.
“If you don’t own your home, what are your choices?” Chester asked. “You can’t elevate the building. You can’t redesign the drainage.”
Historic housing policies also play a role. In the 1930s and 1940s, federal mortgage maps labeled certain neighborhoods risky for investment, often based on
race or religion. “What we see today is the legacy of those decisions,” Chester said. “Areas that were denied investment then are often the same places facing higher climate risk now.”
Theodore cautions against viewing flooding as purely natural. “Is it a natural disaster,” she asked, “or the outcome of decades of planning and housing decisions?”
Residents say that official responses to flooding have been inconsistent. Some recall sewer improvements in Island Park, but broader efforts have been limited. Experts say that effective solutions necessitate a regional approach.
The best way to manage rainfall, Theodore said, is to slow it before it reaches storm drains through strategies such as permeable pavement, rain gardens, increased tree cover and reducing paved surfaces.
“We want to slow the way water flows,” she said. “But we built for speed.”
With Nassau County already densely developed, creating space for water absorption has become increasingly difficult. Addressing flooding one property at a time won’t solve the larger problem, Theodore said, and long-term coordination will likely be necessary. Some residents worry about what the next decade may bring as sea levels rise and flooding becomes more common. Communities including Long Beach, Freeport, Island Park and Oceanside increasingly represent the front line of a worsening problem.
Pollution entering the Great South Bay is closely tied to what happens on land, particularly through
Continued from PreViouS PAGe
groundwater and runoff. The bay stretches along the South Shore, between the Island’s “mainland” and Fire Island. While it receives freshwater from rivers and streams, a significant portion flows underground through Long Island’s aquifer system.
As groundwater moves through soil, it carries pollutants on its way to the bay. “Excess fertilizer can then make its way into the water column, and that is going to stimulate these algal blooms,” Ryan B. Wallace, assistant professor of environmental studies and sciences at Adelphi University, said. “We have to be able to reduce the amount of nitrogen that’s entering into our groundwater.”
Nitrogen pollution is one of the most significant environmental challenges facing the bay. Much of it originates from cesspools and septic systems, while fertilizers used on lawns, golf courses and farmland also contribute.
Excess nitrogen fuels algae growth. As algae die and decompose, bacteria consume oxygen in the water.
The bay has also experienced harmful algal blooms such as brown tide, which block sunlight from reaching the bay floor and damage seagrass habitat. Because groundwater moves slowly, pollution entering the aquifer today may take years — or even decades — to reach coastal waters.
Despite these challenges, local organizations are working to improve water quality.
Save the Great South Bay, a nonprofit founded in 2012, focuses on reducing pollution and restoring the bay’s ecosystem.
“In each of the 16 towns that cross that area, we have appointed a creek defender who is a local steward,” Executive Director Robyn Silvestri said. “They go out, they patrol the creeks, look for trash or anything else that might be blocking the creek. And then, once a year, they organize a major community cleanup.”
Volunteers patrol waterways for debris in addition to organizing the annual cleanups. Over the past several years, they have removed more than 85,000 pounds of trash from creeks feeding into the bay.
“Oysters used to be all over the bay, and now there’s basically no natural oysters in the bay,” Sylvestri said. “We have oyster farms, but no naturally occurring oysters. So we’re looking to reverse that.”
Because a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, restoring oyster reefs could significantly improve water quality.
Nassau’s North Shore
Environmental advocates say that conditions in Hempstead Harbor have improved significantly over the past several decades, though pollution from runoff, septic systems and aging infrastructure still affects nearby communities.
The harbor connects to Glen Cove Creek and several tributaries along the North Shore, and serves as both an ecological system and a drainage outlet for
the surrounding watershed.
“We have a long-term water monitoring program, which is really the backbone of what we do,” Michelle Lapinel McAllister, programs director for the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor, said. “We’ve had consistent and uninterrupted monitoring since 1992.”
Researchers collect water samples year-round to measure nitrogen, bacteria and dissolved oxygen. “The main issues come down to nutrient pollution, bacteria and plastic pollution,” McAllister said.
Nitrogen pollution remains a persistent challenge, because excess nutrients can fuel algal blooms that reduce oxygen levels in the water.
Despite those challenges, the harbor has improved. In 2011, roughly 2,500 acres of shellfish beds reopened after being closed for more than 40 years because of high bacteria levels.
Oyster restoration has also helped improve water quality. Through partnerships with volunteers and federal grants, the coalition has planted more than 1.7 million oysters in Hempstead Harbor since 2022.
Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said that wastewater infrastructure remains a concern on the North Shore, where many communities still rely on septic systems.
“90 percent of Nassau County is sewered, and out of the 10 percent that is not sewered, 90 percent is in my district,” DeRiggi-Whitton said.
County officials have also targeted pollution flowing from Scutter’s Pond, in Sea Cliff, once identified as a major
contamination source for Hempstead Harbor. Officials installed a catch basin and weir system designed to filter runoff before it reaches the harbor.
“It’s basically a filter,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “It just skims the water and takes out the pollutants that would go into Hempstead Harbor.” The roughly $250,000 project significantly reduced the amount of contamination entering the harbor.
Assemblyman Charles Lavine said that flooding in Glen Cove in 2024 illustrated how stormwater moves through the landscape. “Any groundwater that collects as a result of storms is going to find its way toward the lowest point,” Lavine said. “That’s gravity.”
Residents of Glen Cove’s Woolsey Avenue say they have repeatedly experienced flooding during major storms.
“The water isn’t just rain — it’s runoff from other streets, and it’s filled with garbage and bacteria,” resident Linda Melbinger said. “We’ve had dead animals in our yard in the past, and there’s a layer of contamination on everything that smells.”
“It impacts so many things,” McAllister said. “Everyone moves here because they want the beauty of the harbor, but it’s only going to be beautiful to the extent that you take care of it and you have a healthy and thriving harbor.”
The harbor, she said, supports local recreation, fishing and the broader coastal ecosystem.
“As good citizens,” McAllister said, “we have to make sure that we’re doing our part to respect the harbor and everything it has to offer.”
While large infrastructure projects and policy changes play a major role in addressing flooding and water pollution, environmental experts say residents can also take steps to reduce runoff, limit pollution and help protect local waterways.
Reduce fertilizer use
■ Fertilizers used on lawns and gardens can wash into storm drains and eventually reach bays and harbors.
■ Experts recommend using fertilizers sparingly — or avoiding them altogether — especially before heavy rain. Nitrogen from fertilizer is one of the leading contributors to harmful algal blooms in Long Island waters.
Upgrade septic systems
■ Many homes on Long Island still rely on older septic systems or cesspools, which can release nitrogen into groundwater.
■ Programs in Suffolk County offer incentives for installing nitrogenreducing septic systems.
Environmental advocates say similar upgrades across the region could significantly reduce pollution entering coastal waters.
Limit runoff from driveways and yards
■ Rain that falls on paved surfaces flows quickly into storm drains, carrying pollutants with it.
■ Residents can help reduce runoff by installing rain barrels, planting rain gardens, adding trees or replacing pavement with permeable materials that allow water to soak into the ground.
Protect storm drains
■ Storm drains typically flow directly into nearby waterways.
■ Residents can help by keeping leaves, grass clippings and trash out of drains and reporting blocked drains to local public works departments.
Volunteer with local groups
■ Several Long Island organizations rely on volunteers to monitor waterways and remove debris. Programs such as Save the Great South Bay’s Creek Defender initiative organize cleanups and waterway patrols throughout the region.
Lynbrook High School’s annual Class Night returned on March 13 for its 98th year, continuing one of the school’s longeststanding traditions. This year’s theme, “The End is Just the Beginning,” set the tone for an energetic evening as freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors competed in a spirited showcase of skits, dance, music and large hand-painted murals.
Each class spent weeks preparing a 25-minute performance, which they presented before an audience of more than 1,000 family members, friends and community supporters. Judges evaluated the presentations on creativity, teamwork and overall performance.
The seniors took first place with a Muppet Show-inspired skit, followed by the juniors in second with a Scooby-Doo theme. Sophomores earned third place with a Mickey Mouse-inspired performance, while freshmen rounded out the competition with a Looney Tunes-themed act.
Class Night, a Lynbrook tradition for nearly a century, continues to highlight school spirit, collaboration and creativity, remaining one of the most anticipated events of the school year.
— Kayla Dechter
By Dr. Esther Fogel, Comprehensive Audiology
At Comprehensive Audiology, we often see firsthand how hearing health is about much more than just the ears, it touches every part of life, especially our most cherished relationships. Whether it’s sharing a laugh with a friend, hearing a grandchild’s first words, or simply understanding a partner during everyday conversations, clear hearing is central to feeling connected.
When hearing starts to decline, however, communication can become strained. Misunderstandings may happen more often, and loved ones might feel ignored or frustrated, even though the person with hearing loss isn’t intentionally tuning them out. Over time, these small miscommunications can lead to feelings of isolation, tension, and emotional distance.
Research consistently shows that untreated hearing loss has a profound impact on the home dynamic. Partners of individuals with hearing difficulties often report a loss of intimacy and fewer shared activities. Family members may mistakenly interpret hearing struggles as a lack of
interest or engagement, leading to hurt feelings on both sides.
The good news? Addressing hearing health can repair and even strengthen these vital bonds. Open communication is the first step toward a solution. If you or a loved one suspect a change, it’s important to talk about it openly and without blame.
A conversation framed with understanding can make a world of difference.
We believe that hearing healthcare isn’t just about devices; it’s about people.
Comprehensive Audiology’s team is here not just to test hearing, but to truly listen to your concerns, your lifestyle, and your goals. We view ourselves as your dedicated partners in care, helping you find solutions that support both your hearing and your relationships.
For many, the right technology restores more than sound; it restores confidence and ease in conversations. Hearing care is a journey, and no one should walk it alone. Having a trusted provider in Lynbrook means having a reliable source of support every step of the way.
By valuing your sense of hearing and investing in local, expert care, you can safeguard your connections and enjoy a
Book your hearing evaluation today!
better quality of life. Ready to take charge of your hearing and health?
ComprehensiveAudiology,at 261 Broadway in Lynbrook,helps people of all ages live better by hearing their best. Appointments can be made by calling (516) 387-4000 or by scheduling online at comprehensiveaudiology.com/scheduleappointment.Follow us on Facebook,
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261 Broadway, Lynbrook, NY 11563 (516) 387-4000 comprehensiveaudiology.com
For more than a century, doctors typically have treated children and adults with chronically blocked ears by surgically placing tubes within the ears to relieve pressure. Now, there is a better way.
Mount Sinai South Nassau’s ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists are using minimally invasive endoscopic technology to thread a tiny balloon catheter through the nose and into the eustachian tube. They inflate the balloon for two minutes to restore tube function before deflating it and removing the catheter. Patients often can return to work and take part in normal daily activities on the same day as the procedure.
The new procedure can be used by patients suffering from chronic eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), including those experiencing a persistent feeling of ear fullness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), recurring ear fluid, difficulty hearing, earaches during weather changes, or difficulty equalizing ear pressure when traveling by plane or ascending steep inclines. Each year, ETD accounts for nearly 2 million visits to doctors, emergency departments, or urgent care centers in the United States.
ETD occurs when the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, becomes blocked, inflamed, or fails to open properly. When functioning correctly, the eustachian tube opens and closes naturally, especially when yawning or swallowing, and is vital to maintaining ear health and helping regulate pressure.
While children are susceptible to
ETD due to their shorter, more horizontal, and narrower eustachian tubes, it is most prevalent in adults 65 years and older as well as those ages 40-64.
In the past, ETD has been treated by surgically placing tubes within the eardrums to aerate the middle ear. However, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s team of otolaryngologists (specialists in diagnosing and treating structural dysfunctions or injuries in the ear, nose, and throat) led by Rajesh Kakani, MD, Director, Otolaryngology, are using “tuboplasty surgery” or eustachian tube balloon dilation to correct ETD.
Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, tuboplasty surgery is an elective, minimally invasive endoscopic outpatient procedure that opens blocked
eustachian tubes with a balloon catheter.
Performed under general anesthesia, the benefits of tuboplasty surgery include minimal recovery time and follow-up care. Studies have found that patients experience long-lasting relief after tuboplasty surgery.
Designated as a Sinus Center of Excellence, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat specializes in treating allergies, chronic ear infections, dizziness, hay fever, hearing loss, voice hoarseness, chronic nosebleed, chronic sinusitis, sleep apnea, and snoring and swallowing disorders.
Dr. Kakani and his team use advanced noninvasive procedures to treat patients with all types of issues related to the ears, nose, and throat, including:
• Endoscopic sinus surgery
• Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty
• Head and neck cancer surgery
• Rhinoplasty, or plastic surgery of the nose
For more information about Mount Sinai South Nassau’s ENT services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-877-SOUTH-NASSAU.
mountsinai.org/southnassau
During Brain Awareness Week (March 16–22), Hearing and Brain Centers of America is highlighting one of the most overlooked—but proven—ways to protect brain health: treating hearing loss and tinnitus.
Research shows untreated hearing loss is one of the largest modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia. As auditory input to the brain decreases, the brain must work harder to process sound, diverting resources away from memory, focus, and comprehension. Over time, this cognitive overload can accelerate brain atrophy, social isolation, and dementia risk.
Studies from Johns Hopkins Medical Center reveal that individuals with mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia, while
those with moderate to severe hearing loss face up to a five-fold increased risk. A 2023 study published in The Lancet further confirmed that treating hearing loss can significantly slow cognitive decline.
At Hearing and Brain Centers of America, traditional hearing aids have been replaced with prescriptiongrade NeuroTechnology™,
designed not just to amplify sound—but to stimulate the brain. These advanced devices improve clarity, reduce listening effort, and support neural pathways critical for memory and cognition.
The landmark ACHIEVE Study (The Lancet, 2023) found that older adults who treated hearing loss experienced a 48% reduction in cognitive decline over three years. Additional research shows hearing aid use is linked to improved memory recall, increased social engagement, and lower dementia prevalence.
Dr. Keith Darrow, neuroscientist and clinical audiologist, emphasizes: “We hear with our brains, not our ears.” Treating hearing loss early helps protect brain function, enhance quality of life, and promote healthier aging. In recognition of Brain
Awareness Week, Hearing and Brain Centers of America encourages adults over 50 to schedule regular hearing and cognitive screenings. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus, contact us to schedule a comprehensive hearing and cognitive assessment.
Together, we can protect brain health and add more life to your years.
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The Town of Hempstead is once again hosting a job fair at the Freeport Recreation Center. General admission for the March 26 event will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Veterans and those with disabilities are invited to an early admission beginning at 9:30 a.m. Registration is required, and organizers ask that all prospective participants do so by visiting HempsteadWorks.com/jobfair. Registrants will receive an invitation to attend an online pre-event workshop that will help prepare them for the fair.
In addition to networking and potential interview and job opportunities, registrants can get a professional headshot taken for free at the event. All of those taking part are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume.
Attendance at the job fair has grown considerably, according to town officials. Supervisor John Ferretti said that over 700 people were registered for the event as of March 13. Since the first gathering in 2022, as many as 2,000 attendees have registered each year.
Despite the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports of steady increases in unemployment nationwide since early 2022, the Town of Hempstead has maintained unemployment rates under 4 percent since 2021. The current unemployment in Hempstead, according to the town, is 3.2 percent, well under the U.S. average of 4.4 percent.
Job fair organizers seek to continue reducing unemployment and to provide residents with “an opportunity to meet with local businesses and major companies one on one” to discuss job prospects, Ferretti said.
“We also have agencies providing information and resources for individuals with disabilities and giving them an opportunity to meet with businesses,” he added. “HempsteadWorks will also have a table so residents can learn about the resources available at the Town of Hempstead Career Center.”
The companies and organizations that will be take part in the fair will represent a variety of industries, including retail, security, first responders, health care, child care, public transit, armed forces and communications. Some of the featured employers include Advantage Solutions, Council for Airport Opportunity, Long Island Cares, the New York City Department of
Correction, Richner Communications, the U.S. Marines Corp, the U.S. Postal Service, with many Long Island- and New York City-based job opportunities.
Additionally, HempsteadWorks has begun the registration process for its Summer Youth Employment Program, and is looking for eligible young people from ages 16 to 20 to apply. Participants will work as interns for 30 hours a week for six weeks over the summer with partnering local businesses and organizations.
For more information on the job fair and other HempsteadWorks initiatives, go to the HempsteadWorks Career Center website, HempsteadWorks.com, or call (516) 485-5000 ext. 1100.
By ABBEY SALVEMINI
The Herald Long Island Business Summit & Thrive Awards brought together entrepreneurs, executives and family-owned businesses at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on March 3 for a day of networking, education and celebration focused on helping businesses expand and compete in a challenging market.
An all-day networking expo
featuring organizations such as the New York Small Business Development Centers, Trellus and the Secure Choice Savings Program kicked off the summit.
A featured executive session, “The Future is Now: Protecting Your Wealth and Legacy,” led by attorneys Morris Sabbagh and Joseph Trotti, of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, emphasized proactive planning, wealth preservation and safeguarding family legacies.
Sabbagh encouraged a forwardthinking approach to protecting businesses and personal legacies.
“Most successful people are optimists, that’s what makes them successful,” he said, emphasizing that confidence, preparation and strategic vision drive long-term, generational success.
After the executive session, event leaders took the stage to formally greet attendees and highlight the summit’s mission of supporting and strengthening Long Island’s business community. Those lead-
ers underscored their commitment to strengthening Long Island’s business community and supporting small and mid-size companies.
Marc Perez, senior vice president at Bank of America, highlighted the bank’s commitment as a presenting sponsor of the event and to the region’s entrepreneurs, stating, “Bank of America remains deeply committed to supporting businesses, the backbone of Long Island’s economy.”
Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications Inc., echoed that sentiment.
“Small and mid-size businesses are the backbone of Long Island’s economy,” emphasizing the vital role they play in driving regional growth,” he said.
Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations/events at Richner Communications, encouraged attendees to maximize the day’s opportunities.
“I want you to leave here with tangible strategies and meaningful relationships,” she said.
18 Joseph Milizio, managing partner at Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, highlighted the energy in the room and the value of collaboration.
“We have a room filled with excitement,” he said. “This is where you form partnerships to grow your business,” underscoring how connection and strategic guidance can help businesses thrive for generations.”
At the heart of the summit were the 2026 Thrive Awards, celebrating the small and family-owned businesses that drive Long Island’s economy. Stew Leonard Jr. was honored with the Legacy Leadership Award, alongside winners in categories such as Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Social Impact, Creative Excellence and Health & Wellness Leadership. The awards showcased the innovation and resilience that shape the region’s business community.
The opening keynote of the summit featured fashion entrepreneur and native Long Islander Steve Madden, who shared insights on balancing ambition with sustainability in business during his session, “Building a Business That Doesn’t Break You.” Emmy Awardwinning broadcaster Curt Chaplin, guided the discussion on the challenges and triumphs of growing a successful enterprise.
“An entrepreneur is someone who breaks the rules and thinks of things differently,” Madden said, giving attendees an inside view of the unconventional strategies and mindset that have driven his success.
“His entire story is just remarkable,” Chaplin said, framing the conversation and asking questions that highlighted the lessons behind Madden’s journey.
Guests then attended “Workshop Session I: The Money Hour,” focused on financial strategy and growth. Panels on scaling startups, managing cash flow and protecting business legacy featured experts from Bank of America, CliftonLarsonAllen, GC Advisory Group and Empire State Development, offering practical guidance for sustainable success.
The afternoon continued with “Workshop Session II: Mind Your Business,” which covered legal essentials, AI tools and marketing strategies. Speakers included Milizio and Derek Gibbs of Casper Studios and Brad Harmon of Richner Communications.
“All decisions are driven through
data,” Harmon said. He reminded attendees that “it’s not about you, it’s about the consumer,” urging them to understand their target market and where their audience is. When challenges arise, his advice was simple: “Ask yourself, what did the data say?”
Motivational speaker and entrepreneur Brandon Steiner, founder and president of The Steiner Agency and CollectibleXchange, delivered his closing keynote, “The 5 Essentials to Thrive in Business in 2026.”
He emphasized innovation, empathy and growth, telling attendees, “I’m always trying to outthink my competition,” and urging them to “lead with empathy” by truly listening to customers’ needs. Steiner also encouraged continuous improvement, reminding the audience, “Don’t let success get in the way of more success.”
The Bank of America Small Business Spotlight Awards honored three standout businesses in the Micro, Small and Growth categories. Cholados y Antojitos Corp, Charles Krull + Son, Inc. Plumbing and Heating and Curl Evolution each received $5,000 in unrestricted funds. Participants entered by submitting how their business gives back to the community, and how they would use the prize money.
“We are thrilled to have been chosen to receive this award,” Curl Evolution owner Allison Bridges said. “We are very invested in Long Island and the people here. This will help us open an additional location at the end of the year helping us get more curl care options to the residents here as well as hire more talent.”
The event was powered by Bank of America, with additional support from Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, whose sponsorship underscored a shared commitment to strengthening and sustaining Long Island’s small and family-owned business community. Event highlights were also shared on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Attendees left with new connections, actionable strategies and renewed inspiration to navigate an evolving business landscape. By combining expert insight, meaningful networking and recognition of local excellence, the Herald Long Island Business Summit & Thrive Awards reinforced a shared commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and ensuring
To learn more, see additional
By Jocie Dye and Dave Hickman
Are you confident you’re heading toward sustainable and positive change? Are you concerned about the effectiveness of your operations and workforce, and if they can keep pace with your growth?
Reviewing your structure, processes, and systems with an eye toward your strategic vision can help your organization make informed, targeted, and impactful decisions.
Many businesses and organizations face uncertainty as competition, tax, and funding structures continue to evolve. Organizations need to be nimble and lean, while operating efficiently through leveraging data, automation, and their workforce to help drive growth.
Start with a 360-degree view of your business. If you’re already feeling stretched, think about helping fill those gaps while you focus on core strategy.
Getting a fresh perspective in three key areas – structure, process, and systems – can help you thrive now and in the face of new disruptions and business opportunities.
1. Understand the structure required to support your operations
Ask these questions to help determine if your operations are supporting the needs of your mission, strategy, and leadership now and in the future:
• Are managers receiving the training, tools, and information they need to do their work effectively?
• Do they understand their budget and spending?
• Do they feel they have the right tools and resources to operate efficiently?
• Do managers know who they can turn to if they have questions on financial or human resource matters?
People strategy: Filling the skills gap with the right team
If the answer to any of the above is
“no,” it’s possible you are experiencing either skills or capacity gaps within your operations functions.
Ideally, your organization’s operations serve in both a compliance and risk management role, as well as one of customer support to the rest of the organization. If you’re feeling gaps in either compliance or customer service, it’s likely time to further evaluate and identify where and why those exist — and begin planning to remediate.
Many businesses find outsourcing some or all their business operations can help fill skills gaps in required compliance areas, as well as add capacity, particularly through change and growth. Outsourcing often provides the ability and flexibility to right-size in a way that can grow with you as your needs change.
2. Review key operating processes
Your team is only as effective as the processes they follow and the tools and technology they use. To help you understand how effectively and efficiently your team is operating, ask:
• Do we have documented and wellunderstood standard operating procedures?
• Are we leveraging electronic and auditable system workflows for things like employee onboarding, accounts payable, expense approvals, and signatures on cash disbursements?
• Do sales and billing data flow seamlessly into the financial system of record?
• Are we storing documentation electronically, in shared and documented locations?
• Do managers know where to access the reporting data and information they need when they need it?
A “no” answer may indicate manual, inefficient processes, and risks associated with human error, weak controls, lost documentation, and the potential for missed revenues.
3. Modernize your technology systems for efficiency and security
Updating your technology doesn’t have to be a major undertaking. For some, it may be as simple as converting to a cloud-based version connected to other platforms.
Do you use outdated, unintegrated technologies, or have modern tools staff struggle to use effectively? If your workflows aren’t automated and you don’t have data at your fingertips, you should be asking yourself why.
Today’s business systems — and increasingly, AI-driven tools — make it possible to automate nearly any and all routine data entry tasks, which not only increases efficiency, but lends itself to stronger controls, documentable audit trails, and better data and analytics. Other systems can track a company’s full financial profile, which helps with everything from setting revenue targets to taxes.
Protecting technology, including software your employees use to work from home, is critical. Hackers, or threat actors, are constantly on the move, using AI and other tactics to hone their attacks. Anti-virus software,
employee education, strong passwords, a two-factor identification system, and regular system scans are just some of the cybersecurity techniques available
Artificial intelligence
AI-powered platforms can go beyond automation by learning patterns in your financial data, predicting cash flow, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. Combined with outsourcing support, these technologies allow your back-office team to shift from manual tasks to strategic analysis, helping leadership make smarter decisions faster.
For more information on business operations improvements, contact Nicola Ellam at nicola.ellam@CLAconnect.com or 646-604-0015.
The information contained herein is general in nature and is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal, accounting, investment, or tax advice or opinion provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) to the reader. For more information, visit CLAconnect.com.
CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities through our industryfocused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is an independent network member of CLA Global. See CLAglobal.com/disclaimer Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SECregistered investment advisor.
and
Rjoin sustainability leaders for May 14th awards program honoring Long Island’s environmantal champions
eworld™, presenting sponsor of the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, announced that former NFL quarterback and sports broadcaster Boomer Esiason and New York Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri will join this year’s event, with longtime broadcaster Tom Kelly returning as master of ceremonies.
Produced by RichnerLIVE and the Long Island Herald in partnership with Reworld™, the awards program will take place on May 14 at The Heritage Club in Bethpage. The evening will recognize outstanding environmental leadership across Long Island, honoring nonprofit organizations, educators, elected officials, and community leaders who are advancing sustainability efforts throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
“As this program enters its second year, we are proud to elevate leaders who are making meaningful environmental progress across Long Island,” said Maureen Early, lead community relations specialist at Reworld™.
“Bringing together respected voices from our region, including Boomer Esiason and Kyle Palmieri, helps shine a spotlight on the inspiring work happening in our communities.
Sustainability
is built through partnership, and this event reflects the collective commitment required to move our region forward.”
eVeNt DetailS
• Date: May 14
• locatioN: The Heritage Club, Bethpage
• preSeNteD by: Reworld™
• proDuceD by: RichnerLive
the 2026 herald Sustainability awards of long island presented by reworld™ will recognize individuals and organizations in several categories, including:
• Environmental Leader in Policy
• Champions of Municipal Stewardship
• Community Impact for Sustainability
• Environmental Infrastructure Leader
• Environmental Development Leader
• Environmental Leader in Entertainment
Esiason, who enjoyed a distinguished NFL career and later became a nationally recognized sports commentator, and Palmieri, a veteran NHL forward with the New York Islanders, will join Reworld™ in celebrating this year’s honorees and highlighting the importance of community leadership in tackling environmental challenges.
Kelly will guide the evening’s program, introducing award recipients and leading the ceremony.
The program will also feature the Student Sustainability Champion Award, honoring one exceptional student from Nassau County and one
from Suffolk County for leadership in promoting sustainable change. Each student honoree will receive a $2,500 prize provided by Reworld™ and will be recognized during the ceremony.
Reworld™ continues to invest in initiatives that empower communities and advance environmental stewardship across Long Island.
For more information about Reworld™ and its environmental initiatives, visit ReworldWaste.com. For more information about the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld™ or to request an invitation, visit: RichnerLive.com/richner-event/ herald-sustainability-awards-powered-by-reworld/
Students at Rhame Avenue School got an early taste of St. Patrick’s Day on March 10 when Joe Beyrer, director of the pipe band at Iona University, visited the school to share the music and traditions of bagpiping. Beyrer’s wife, Gail, a fourth-grade teacher at Rhame, helped organize the presentation.
During the visit, Beyrer spoke with students about the history behind bagpipes and traditional Scottish clothing. He brought several kilts for students to see up close and explained how different tartan patterns represent specific Scottish clans. He also showed them a solid-colored kilt, noting that this style is traditionally Irish.
Students also learned some interesting facts about the clothing. Beyrer explained that the phrase “the whole nine yards” is believed to come from the amount of fabric needed to make a traditional kilt. He added that the word “kilt” once meant “little house,” because travelers in the past sometimes used the garment as a makeshift shelter and blanket.
The presentation was also personal for the Beyrer family. Gail Beyrer not only arranged the visit but also performs in the pipe band with her husband on the swinging drum. She even made history with the group as its first female drum major.
Beyrer told students he first became interested in bagpipes by watching his father play. His dedication eventually earned him a college scholarship, and today he directs the pipe band at Iona University.
The visit ended with a memorable moment as Beyrer played his bagpipes while walking through the school’s hallways. Students and teachers stepped out of their classrooms to listen, turning the afternoon into a lively early celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.
— Kayla Dechter
By Abbey Salvemini
Chocolate lovers, mark your calendars for a day of indulgence for all the senses. The Chocolate Expo returns on Sunday, March 22 — this year bringing its tasty wonders to its new venue, following many years at Hofstra University. Nassau Coliseum’s Expo Hall, a vast — more than 44,000 square foot — space, is ready to welcome all to an immersive chocolate wonderland of decadent flavors, irresistible aromas and family-friendly fun.
Upon entering everyone is immediately greeted by chocolate fountains, flowing with rich white, dark and milk chocolate, setting the tone for a deliciously unforgettable experience.
One of the largest and most celebrated chocolate festivals in the U.S., according to its founder Marvin Baum, more than 80 vendors are represented at what he describes as “the official home of chocolate, food and fun.” Visitors can treat themselves to everything from artisan chocolates and baked goods to specialty foods, cheeses and spirits.
“We’re happy to bring the Chocolate Expo to the Nassau Coliseum,” Baum says. “With more space comes more vendors. We’re bringing in vendors who don’t normally come to events on Long Island, so people will get to see something truly different.”
Beyond shopping and sampling, visitors can enjoy demonstrations, chocolate-themed presentations and interactive moments throughout the day.
From classics like bonbons, fudge and chocolatedipped treats there are no shortage of desserts to sample. Savory pairings, baked goods, specialty foods, wine, and cheeses are also tempting; there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Some of the most buzz-worthy treats that you won’t to miss out on include chocolate-covered bacon, a favorite since 2012. For those looking to try something new, the Dubai-style chocolates are trending this year, with creative twists like chocolatecovered donuts, including offerings from a purveyor based in Lebanon.
These unexpected goodies add an adventurous edge to the festival, making it as much about discovery as it is about indulgence.
“People often find new favorites at the Expo, whether it’s a specialty cheese they will look for in stores or a spirit they want to visit at the distillery,” Baum says highlighting its lasting impact.
Be sure to check out the Long Island confectioners represented, such as Bellmore’s Chocolate Works, a
Trevor Wallace
chocolaterie selling chocolate-covered pretzels, platters, and more. Other local favorites include Chez Hedwidge, an artisan gluten-free bakery, based in Valley Stream; also the Sunflower Bakeshop, a Kosher bakery in West Hempstead, offering a wide range of gluten-free and vegan options.
In addition to culinary delights, this year’s edition includes a dose of television nostalgia. Cast members from the classic series “Little House on the Prairie” and ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ are scheduled for special guest appearances. Dean Butler, Patrick Labyorteaux and Todd Bridges will be on hand to meet fans throughout the day. The actors will be available for autographs and selfies (fees are set individually) and will participate in a panel discussion with an audience Q&A at 1 p.m., included with event admission.
The combination of chocolate with pop culture has become an Expo hallmark, with Baum noting that “Little House on the Prairie” holds a special place for many.
“Chocolate is very nostalgic,” he says. “People are always looking for treats and desserts, and we also want to bring in that element of nostalgia.”
• Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; early VIP access starts at 9 a.m.
• Tickets are $30, $15 ages 5-12 online only; general admission timed-entry tickets: $20, $15 child online; $30, $15 child at the door; available from thechocolateexpo.com
• Nassau Coliseum, Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale
Providing a visual centerpiece sure to attract attraction (and serve as a vibrant, imaginative backdrop for photos), acclaimed balloon artist Robbie Furman returns to craft an intricate balloon sculpture display featuring scenes and characters from both iconic TV series. When his demo wraps up, children eagerly dive in to pop the balloons, in what Baum playfully terms a “balloon popping party.”
For more family-sized fun, young visitors can drop by the Kidz Zone. Face painting, balloon twisting and a scavenger hunt will surely keep the young set entertained, in addition to being surrounded by chocolate treats.
“Seeing the smiles on people’s faces is what it’s all about,” Baum enthuses.“This is a chance for people to get away from everything, whether that’s trying a new chocolate or just enjoying the moment.” He encourages everyone — whether coming solo, with friends or family — to make this a must-visit.
“It’s really about the experience and having a good time.”
For Baum, supporting local businesses and building relationships with returning chocolatiers is just as important as the treats themselves, making it a unique and meaningful day for the community.
Photos courtesy Chuck Fishman
Photos: From chocolate-dipped treats to inventive creations, every bite is a delicious discovery.
The comedian brings his Alpha Beta Male Tour to the Paramount stage. The energetic comic-digital creator has gained a growing following with sharp observational bits, viral character sketches, and fast-paced crowd work. Rising from early internet sketches to sold-out clubs and theaters, he blends internetsavvy humor with classic jokecrafting, making his shows accessible to longtime fans and first-timers alike. He co-hosts the popular Stiff Socks podcast, further expanding his reach to comedy listeners nationwide. Wallace’s tour is packed with fresh stories, act-outs, and interactive riffs. His ascent started with viral sketches lampooning internet culture, energy-drink bros, entrepreneurs, and micro-trends; those clips earned millions of views and a loyal fan base that now fills venues everywhere. As his reputation grew, he transitioned from shortform videos to touring, proving he could translate online momentum into consistent, in-person laughs.
Friday, March 20, 7 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Direct from Rome, the Three Italian Tenors stop at Tilles Center on their North American Tour debut. Everyone will be captivated by Giovanni Maria Palmia, Ugo Tarquini, and Alessandro Fantoni accompanied by pianist Fabrizio Mocata. Their salute to the great Italian tenors — Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Mario Lanza and Enrico Caruso — is an exhilarating and unique musical event. It features original arrangements and universally loved Italian songs and tenor arias, fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style. Their repertoire also includes romantic ballads like “Musica Proibita” and “Dicitencello vuje,” a tribute to Dean Martin with Volare, and a lively piano medley of popular Italian tunes — all culminating in a thrilling celebration of vocal artistry and Italian musical heritage. You’re sure to be enthralled by their rich vocals, heartfelt emotion and the golden tradition of Italian vocal artistry.
Tuesday, March 24, 7 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
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., Garden City
• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon; also March 22, March 24-26
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Tea party
Come out and enjoy tea, games, raffles, and the company of your neighbors while contributing to a great cause at Lynbrook Public Library. Lynbrook Kiwanis hosts a community tea party to support Autism awareness. Your participation will not only spread Autism awareness, but it supports initiatives that enrich the lives of children and families.
• Where: 56 Eldert St.
• Time: Noon-3 p.m.
• Contact: Kiwanislynbrook@ gmail.com
Nassau County Museum of Art joins in the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Its landmark exhibition explores how Long Island has reflected and shaped the story of American art. From Revolutionary-era portraiture and folk art to nineteenth-century landscapes, Impressionism, and the bold innovations of Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art, the exhibition highlights how every major art movement found expression here. From Brooklyn to Montauk, Long Island’s natural beauty, coastal light, and close connection to New York City inspired generations of artists and gave rise to thriving art colonies and postwar creative communities. Featuring paintings, decorative arts, and historical objects displayed together in immersive settings, the exhibit celebrates the region’s enduring influence and its rich artistic legacy. Opens March 21, on
Hop Into Spring
Families are invited to hop on over to Long Island Children’s Museum to welcome spring! Meet Peter Rabbit and Baby Chick costume characters, explore the museum to collect goodies, interact with live animals, and create themed craft activities. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a day of family fun!
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
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Village Board meets
The Board of Trustees holds its next regular meeting. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed on village business and community updates. Meeting agendas are typically available on the village website prior to the session.
• Where: Columbus Drive, Lynbrook
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: lynbrookvillage.gov or call (516) 599-8300
• Time: 7 p.m.
With his strikingly similar looks, baritone voice, and spot-on mannerisms, Shawn Barker’s uncanny resemblance to the original “Man In Black” revitalizes the true character and spirit of Mr. Cash himself, one of America’s greatest musical icons, for a truly one-of-a-kind show. The energetic concert features Barker in character throughout the entire evening, walking the audience through each era of Cash’s life and music, including hits like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Hurt,” and “Ring of Fire,” backed by a full band. Born and raised in a working-class suburb of St. Louis, Barker took a schoolboy love for singing in church with his family and turned it into a career. The path to his current success wasn’t a straight line from gospel choir to Johnny Cash tribute act. After serving his country in the Army, Barker returned home to Missouri, took a job as a carpenter and spent all of his free time learning how to play the guitar. He developed strength and versatility in his voice by modeling his crooning on a cast of legends — Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent. His performances quickly turned from hobby to profession, but oddly enough, Barker’s first touring gigs were portraying Elvis, not Johnny Cash. Everything changed, however, when Barker was asked to audition for the part of Cash in a Hollywood production, as it became evident to the director and Barker himself that Johnny Cash was his true calling. From that point there was no turning back.
view through July 12.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
The weather during the month of March can be described as coming in like a lion and out like a lamb. Families can join the Green Teens at Long Island Children’s Museum to welcome spring as you explore what happens during the change of seasons at the drop-in program. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: Noon-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
MAR 22
Modern Calligraphy workshop
Join Sip & Script for a Calligraphy for Beginners workshop at Speak Easy Tapas Bar, perfect for anyone curious about hand lettering or looking for a creative night out.
You’ll learn the basics of modern calligraphy using a pointed dip pen and ink, with guided practice
and a full beginner kit to keep. Enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with food and drinks available for purchase while you create something beautiful.
• Where: 451 Atlantic Ave., East Rockaway
• Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
• Contact: nicoleksipandscript@ gmail.com
MAR 24
East Rockaway BOE meets The Board of Education holds its next meeting East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School. During its public meetings, board members review and vote on resolutions, discuss district business, hear reports from the superintendent and administrators, and provide an opportunity for community members to speak during designated comment periods.
• Where: 443 Ocean Ave.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 887-8300
MAR 26
“You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’ Adelphi University Department of Theatre students give a concert performance of the beloved classic.
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
With charm, wit and heart, “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” explores life through the eyes of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and their friends in the Peanuts gang. This revue of songs and vignettes, based on the beloved Charles Schulz comic strip, showcases Adelphi’s talented students. Musical numbers include “My New Philosophy,” “The Book Report,” “The Baseball Game,” “Little Known Facts,” “Suppertime” and “Happiness.”
• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000
MAR 28
The beloved orchestra springs forward with its next concert “The Rite of Spring.” The program includes Marquez’s Conga del Fuego Nuevo, Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending (Romance for Violin and Orchestra) and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
13
St. Raymond Grammar School class of 1965 and East Rockaway High School class of 1969 are having a joint reunion at Grandpa Tony’s. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch-up and celebration of the lives of the alumni. Email any inquiries to Lorraine Keegan.
• Where: 101 Althouse Ave., East Rockaway
• Time: 5-9 p.m.
• Contact: LTK271982@yahoo.com
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.
A group of Lynbrook elementary students competed in a robotics competition this weekend, held at Mineola High School on Feb 28, earning a medal for their coding skills.
Using Legos, the team explored robotics, building and programming as part of this year’s archaeologythemed challenge. The students designed a project based
on Lynbrook as their dig site, creating and coding a scene with moving vehicles that collected artifacts.
The participants, ages 6 to 9, presented their work to a panel of judges. The team is coached by Lynbrook parents and teachers Matt and Kristen Corrigan.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON TRUST, NA, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO CITIBANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE
F/B/O HOLDERS OF STRUCTURED ASSET MORTGAGE INVESTMENTS II INC., BEAR STEARNS ALT-A TRUST 2007-3, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-3, Plaintiff AGAINST SONIA F. GARNES AKA SONIA GARNES, ORLANDO FINDLAYTER
INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF YVETTE FINDLAYTER, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 23, 2019, 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 April 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 67 Lawrence Avenue, Lynbrook, NY 11563. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 54, Lot 219. Approxi mate amount of judgment $516,776.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #003213/2017. George Esernio, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-000730 89034 158640
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook will hold a Public Hearing to consider the application of 831 Sunrise LLC for a Special Use Permit pursuant to Village Code §252-52(D) and §252-116 to allow underground parking below the building known as and by 831 Sunrise Highway to accommodate forty parking spaces in an existing basement; and under SEQRA Regulations, to determine whether the proposed use would constitute a significant negative impact on the environment; said Public Hearing will be held at 7PM on March 30, 2026 at the Lynbrook Village Hall, One Columbus Drive, Lynbrook, New York 11563.
All interested persons will be heard during the Public Hearing at the time and place aforementioned. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES JOHN GIORDANO, VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR LYNBROOK, NEW YORK
Dated: March 3, 2026 158861
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 WILLIAM G. BREVAIRE, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 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 April 13, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 76 Driving Park Avenue, Lynbrook, NY 11563. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38 Block 54 Lots 12 and 112. Approximate amount of judgment $698,018.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605725/2023. John Boklak, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003337 89120 158781
LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF EAST ROCKAWAY NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway will hold a public hearing at Village Hall, 376 Atlantic Avenue, East Rockaway, New York, on Monday, April 06, 2026, beginning at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of considering the adoption of the 2026-2027 Tentative Budget, Village of East Rockaway Annual Storm Water report and for the purpose of approving the Application for the NCBG Year 52nd requesting funding. All interested people are invited to attend.
Theresa Gaffney Village Clerk-Treasurer DATED: March 10, 2026 158985
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALTS, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2004-24CB, MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-24CB, Plaintiffagainst- CRISTA A. BELLEAU, MICHAEL D. BELLEAU; MARIA NUNEZ, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated August 26, 2024 and entered on September 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, County of Nassau and State of New York; known and designated as SBL# 42-21203-5. Said premises known as 3 DOROTHY PLACE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563 Approximate amount of lien $418,018.83 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 611569/2022.
LINDA AGNEW, ESQ., Referee
Pincus & Tarab
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556
{* LYNBROOK N*} 158900
Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez joined fellow county officials and community members at Nassau Community College on March 6 for Nassau County’s annual Black History Month celebration.
The event, held in the CCB Building’s multipurpose room on the Garden City campus, brought together residents, local leaders and students to honor the contributions, achievements and cultural legacy of Black Americans. This year’s program was themed “Embracing Our Past: Reimagining Our Future,” highlighting the importance of reflecting on history while continuing to build stronger and more inclusive communities.
Nuñez attended the celebration alongside Nassau County Legislators Olena Nicks and Viviana L. Russell. The gath-
ering featured remarks from officials and community leaders as well as opportunities for attendees to reflect on the significance of Black History Month. For Nuñez, who represents the 19th Legislative District, which includes Lynbrook and parts of the surrounding communities, the event was an opportunity to join residents in recognizing the lasting impact of Black leaders, artists, educators and activists throughout history.
Black History Month is observed each February across the United States as a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans and to recognize the role they have played in shaping the nation’s history and culture.
This beautifully maintained Colonialstyle home is in one of
Q. We are talking with contractors about rebuilding our large deck, and we would like to have fewer columns so they don’t block our water view. The contractor suggested that there are wood beams that can do the job, and mentioned something called a lam beam to go a longer distance and open up the space underneath. We would also like to have the deck be sealed so that we can use the underneath area, even in the rain. What do you suggest we use and not use?
A. For starters, laminated wood beams are generally a poor choice for outdoor use, even though there are some on the market that are specifically treated with waterproof adhesives. These few products on the market for outdoor use are much more expensive, and often only used in commercial projects or where the expense is not the greatest concern. Not all beams are the same material or made the same way.
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When I have conversations with people who build, I sound negative instead of enthusiastic, but that is based on the experience of writing insurance reports and investigating the damage and cost of failed products and applications. Remember, in order to succeed, you first have to know how to fail, so as to avoid failure.
What I have witnessed is not failure at the center of beams, where the beam would bend the most, but at the ends and tops, where water penetrates more frequently. If the product isn’t waterproof, the grain of the laminations will start to split. For these reasons, I discourage outdoor use of manufactured, laminated beams because when they are specified very carefully for a project, there is little or no control over what ends up on the jobsite unless the ordering is micro-managed.
I keep samples in my office of beam cutaways to demonstrate how one beam product was specified for a job and what ended up on the jobsite was similar but, with careful inspection, clearly shows the two beams are not the same. They were laminated using different species of trees, one weaker than the other and an inferior number of plies and glues. To a person dropping the material off, based on an order for a “lam beam,” the inferior material looked the same but after installation the floor bounced like a trampoline. The beam had to be removed, at great expense, and the right product ordered. Even though a lesson was learned, it came at a great price.
So indoor locations can also be a problem if the wrong configuration of laminations and species are used. If the correctly engineered lumber beam or steel reinforced beam is designed, they will last for years without another thought. I would use an interlocking aluminum deck product called Versadeck or another product called Lock Dry. They conduct heat rapidly, which means they dissipate heat quickly, making them cool enough on hot summer days to walk on while barefoot, and they keep water from getting through. Good luck!
2026 Monte Leeper
are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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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
Data Analyst– Two (2) job openings Port Washington, NY. Source, analyze, prepare, input data for business intelligence databases. Model, track, synthesize and report quantitative data trends. Forecast model predictions, KPIs, projections, track, and optimize business processes. Test and validate data. Master’s Science in Financial Risk Management required.
Salary: $110,000.00/ year. Resume to Yaraghi LLC Attn: Kevin Yaraghi, CFO, 40 Harbor Park Drive, Port Washington, NY, 11050
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Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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
Operations Manager (Inwood, NY) Plan, direct, coord transportation, warehousing, & distribution oper'ns. Manage daily oper'ns & workflows across co. locs. Review operational & fin'l reports to measure goals & implmt imprvmts. Coord budgeting & forecasting to fund oper'ns & align staffing, eqpmt, material resources w/ customer demand. Bachelor deg req'ed. $78k/yr. Mail resume: POD Logistics Inc., 372 Doughty Blvd, Ste 2, Inwood, NY 11096.
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
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As our country’s largest law enforcement agency, the Department of Homeland Security is essential to our national security, disaster relief and the safety of the American people. There is far too much at risk for this agency to be mismanaged or subject to incompetent leadership. Former Secretary Kristi Noem’s tenure there was nothing short of a disaster, and her recent removal from office did not come a moment too soon.
Under her failed leadership, U.S. citizens were killed at the hands of federal agents, trust in our law enforcement was eroded and our communities’ safety was jeopardized. She showed a contemptible disregard for her fundamental responsibility to keep the American people safe, and should never have been confirmed as the head of DHS. I’m relieved that she was finally removed after her failures became too numerous to ignore. In addition to her complete disregard for law and order, Noem lost control of the department, egregiously misused taxpayer dollars, stoked violence, and
failed to keep the American people safe. Under her watch, hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars were wasted and funneled away from essential programs. That included the purchase of two luxury jets, with plans to purchase a third, to support her travel, costing nearly $300 million, as well as a public advertising campaign improperly awarded to companies with close ties to Noem and other senior officials, costing $220 million.
TInstead of prioritizing the capture of violent criminals, Noem escalated dangerous situations by slashing training for ICE recruits — including on legal use of force — and sent unprepared agents into the streets, making everyone less safe. She diverted federal agents and resources from combating cybersecurity attacks, child abuse, human trafficking and terrorism. That put our national security at even greater risk.
audit of how ICE investigates use-offorce incidents.
Noem’s removal does not absolve her from her gross negligence or the unjust killing of American citizens. She must still answer for her disastrous and deadly period in office to restore the public’s trust in DHS and ensure that her mistakes are not repeated. Noem left the department in disarray, and degraded its ability to work in a nonpartisan fashion. Protecting the U.S and its citizens should never be partisan.
he next Homeland Security secretary must work with Congress to reform ICE.
In light of her incompetence, dereliction of duty and corrupt practices, I am proud to have helped lead the call for Noem’s removal by demanding her impeachment following the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. I urged House Speaker Mike Johnson and Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan to begin impeachment proceedings just days before she was fired.
extending Temporary Protected Status for law-abiding Haitians in our communities; and restoring order at the agency.
The next Homeland Security secretary must push forward negotiations between Congress and the administration to reach a bipartisan compromise on greater reforms of ICE, and then he or she must ensure that reforms are immediately and properly enacted. This must include proper training and deescalation tactics that other law enforcement agencies use.
Additionally, the next secretary must refocus on bolstering the department’s other essential agencies, which Noem foolishly cut, by reinstating the billions of dollars in essential funding and thousands of workers that were eliminated from CISA’s cybersecurity efforts and FEMA’s lifesaving disaster relief and mitigation. These agencies and others within DHS are vital to our country’s security, and must be resuscitated.
To make matters worse, Noem systematically obstructed the DHS inspector general’s office from ensuring that the agency operated within the bounds of the law. The week she was removed from office, the inspector general revealed to Congress that as many as 11 investigations were being blocked by Noem and DHS leadership, including an
With Noem’s exit, the Trump administration has an opportunity to right her wrongs and ensure that the next Homeland Security secretary leads with competence and integrity. That includes working with Congress to reform ICE; reinstating and reallocating funds for disaster relief, cybersecurity and fighting human trafficking and terrorism;
Above all, accountability and law and order must be restored at DHS. Our country cannot afford another secretary who defies his or her oath to uphold the Constitution. The next secretary must prioritize the safety and security of our communities and officers, undo Noem’s horrendous legacy and rebuild the American people’s trust in the Department of Homeland Security.
Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
Like most New Yorkers, I start my workday by dropping my daughter off at school before heading to the office. Unfortunately, like some, I recently got involved in a rearend accident as I waited to find parking. The crash served as a sudden reminder of something New Yorkers experience every day.
Auto insurance has become too costly, too complicated and too disconnected from the concept of fairness. Nearly every household in the state depends on a car, and when insurance premiums rise, families feel it immediately. Across New York, people rely on their vehicles to get to work, to take their children to school, to care for loved ones and to stay connected with their communities. Car insurance is not optional. It is a basic requirement of daily life. Yet too many responsible drivers are paying inflated rates because fraud, staged crashes and systemic abuse continue to push costs higher for everyone.
A fair system should discourage reckless and unlawful behavior, not create incentives that undermine accountability. When responsibility breaks down, law-abiding New Yorkers are left to absorb costs that do not reflect how they live or drive. Restoring balance is not about punishment. It is about fairness, responsibility and trust.
Gov. Kathy Hochul has put forward a clear and thoughtful plan to address these challenges. Her proposal strengthens efforts to combat insurance fraud, closes loopholes that contribute to unnecessary litigation, and reinforces the principle that responsibility should matter. At the same time, it preserves protections for those who are legitimately injured and ensures that the system continues to function for those who follow the rules.
misuse or exploitation of the system. Hochul is advancing a coordinated, statewide approach to restore accountability and bring greater balance to the auto insurance system. Her proposal includes:
W e all share the road — and we share responsibility for one another.
The proposal reflects the important role of government — not simply reacting when costs spiral upward, but stepping in when systems no longer operate as intended. New Yorkers expect their government to protect consumers, promote fairness and ensure that everyday people aren’t left paying the price for the
n Strengthening efforts to identify, investigate and prosecute staged accidents and organized insurance fraud.
n Expanding accountability for people who organize or financially benefit from fraudulent crash schemes.
n Increasing oversight of medical providers who participate in fraudulent claims or improper diagnoses.
n Addressing illegal out-of-state vehicle registrations that shift costs onto lawabiding New York drivers
n Strengthening insurer anti-fraud programs by giving insurers more time and flexibility to investigate suspicious claims.
n Limiting non-economic damage awards for those engaged in unlawful or reckless conduct at the time of an accident.
n Ensuring that drivers who are primarily responsible for causing acci-
dents are not rewarded with excessive damage awards.
n Clarifying and tightening the definition of serious injury to reduce abuse while protecting those who are genuinely harmed.
n Ensuring that cost savings benefit consumers by maintaining strong oversight and protection so reduced system costs translate into relief for policyholders.
This approach reflects the values New Yorkers expect from their government. As part of the governor’s proposed budget, these reforms recognize that affordability is not abstract. It is personal. Bringing down auto insurance costs means easing pressure on household budgets, supporting workers and small businesses, and making our state more livable for everyone. We all share the road, and we all share responsibility for one another. Governor Hochul’s proposal moves New York toward a system that reflects that shared responsibility and puts fairness back where it belongs. That is a goal worth advancing for families in every corner of New York state.
Walter T. Mosley is New York’s secretary of state.
n speeches and campaign platforms, public officials frequently speak about the importance of inspiring the next generation of civic leaders.
Far fewer take the concrete step of bringing young people into the halls of government to see how democracy actually works.
When students are given the opportunity to witness the legislative process firsthand, ask questions of policymakers and engage with peers from across the state, civics education moves beyond textbooks and becomes real.
A trip to a legislative chamber or a youth summit in a state capital can transform abstract lessons about government into tangible experiences. Students see debates unfold, observe how laws are crafted and understand that decisions made in these rooms affect the lives of millions of people.
Exposing students firsthand to the responsibilities of public service helps them understand how decisions made in government affect their communities — and their own futures. These experiences also demonstrate that leadership isn’t reserved for a select few. Instead, it is something young people can aspire to through education, service and engagement. In a Zoom-first world, it is critical that school districts budget for field trips that put students in the civic arena.
Programs that open the doors of government to students also provide something increasingly valuable in today’s civic climate: a sense of connection. When young people interact with elected officials and government staff, they learn that government is not some distant or mysterious institution. It is a
To the Editor:
system run by people who are accountable to the public, and whose work shapes the policies that affect schools, transportation, public safety and economic opportunity.
Across Long Island, many villages and towns have taken small but meaningful steps in this direction through “Mayor for a Day” or “Supervisor for a Day” programs. These initiatives give students a chance to shadow a local leader, attend meetings and get a brief but memorable glimpse into municipal government. For many students, the experience is their first real exposure to how decisions are made in their own communities.
Those programs are valuable, but they could go further. Municipal leaders might consider expanding them into broader outreach efforts that bring the experience directly into classrooms. A rotating “government road show,” in which mayors, supervisors, council members and department leaders visit schools in their communities, could reach far more students than a singleday shadowing opportunity.
By bringing government into schools — rather than just inviting a handful of students to visit government buildings — officials could spark interest among young people who might never otherwise consider public service. A conversation with a mayor or council member can demystify the process and show students that civic leadership begins with curiosity, participation and a willingness to serve.
We know that local institutions don’t always have the capacity to build these programs from scratch — and they don’t have to. We encourage students, munici-
It is continually sad to read Peter King’s opinion pieces. His notions of patriotism, justice and morality are warped by his political fervor for President Trump and his administration — and it shows.
In last week’s op-ed, “A heart-stopping hockey victory was marred by politics,” by trying to bend the president’s boys-club remarks about the U.S. women’s hockey team into a “friendly jibe,” King showed just how behind the times he is. “Lighten up!” he wrote. Really?
King went further. He tried to validate Trump’s failure to acknowledge the women’s hockey team by pointing out that the women were favored to win anyway and had secured their third gold medal since 1998. So no big deal, I guess. Talk about disrespectful.
palities and school districts to partner with established organizations that have proven track records of connecting young people to public service. Two we especially recommend are Civics Unplugged and Govern For America. CU equips high school students to work on government projects they care about, providing the skills, mentorship and connections to make that work transformative for communities. GFA places high-achieving early-career professionals in impactful, full-time state government roles — channeling elite talent where it can do the most good.
Government internships are crucial entrees into public service, too. Too often, however, these internships are unpaid. We need these positions and other entry-level jobs to pay a living wage; otherwise, the only young people who can take them are those from wealthy families, leading to further societal inequality as well as biases among policy creators who lack diverse lived experiences.
At a time when civic participation is often uneven and public trust in institutions is frequently tested, investing in meaningful engagement with young people is not simply educational — it is essential. The more these young people grow, the more our communities gain — and that cycle is the point.
If leaders truly want to inspire the next generation of public servants, they must do more than speak about civic engagement. They must open the doors of government and invite young people inside. Our children are ready to enter the arena.
Let them in.
assessing current economic conditions over the past year has been unusually challenging due to delays in federal data releases, volatile inflation readings and shifting labor-market dynamics. As more complete data has recently become available, however, a clearer picture is emerging for Long Island — one that reflects strength in aggregate, but growing divergence beneath the surface.
Long Island’s economy continues to outperform many regions nationally. Home values remain elevated, hospitality and tourism activity are robust, and unemployment rates in Nassau and Suffolk counties remain below the national average. These indicators point to a region that has weathered recent economic shocks relatively well.
Yet aggregate strength masks important distributional differences. Increasingly, Long Island reflects what economists describe as a K-shaped recovery, in which different segments of the population experience sharply disparate economic outcomes.
Households in the upper echelon of income and wealth distribution have
benefited substantially since 2020. Financial markets have posted significant gains, increasing retirement balances and household net worth for those with market exposure. At the same time, residential real estate values across Nassau and Suffolk have risen markedly since the pre-pandemic period, reinforcing wealth accumulation for existing homeowners. Those households have seen stronger balance sheets, greater financial resilience and sustained consumption capacity.
i
incomes have not kept pace with the rising costs of living.
The implications extend beyond household well-being. Long Island’s economy, like the broader U.S. economy, is fundamentally consumer-driven, with roughly two-thirds of economic activity tied to consumer spending. While higher-income households account for a disproportionate share of consumption, sustainable regional growth depends on broadbased purchasing power across income groups.
llustrating the difference between wealth and incomes that aren’t keeping pace.
While affordability in our region impacts all Long Islanders, many lower- and middle-income households have faced a more constrained economic reality. While nominal wages — what you see in your pay stub — have increased over the past several years, real wage growth — your pay adjusted for inflation — has been limited by persistently higher prices of essential goods and services. Housing costs, food prices and energy expenses have accounted for a growing share of household budgets, eroding purchasing power even as headline inflation shows moderation.
This divergence is central to the concept of a K-shaped economy. The upper arm reflects asset-driven growth and wealth accumulation, while the lower arm captures households whose
Recent measures of consumer sentiment underscore this tension. Despite relatively low unemployment, confidence levels remain subdued. Concerns about job security, trade policy and long-term affordability continue to weigh on household expectations, suggesting that employment alone is an insufficient indicator of economic confidence on the national level.
There are also macroeconomic risks associated with sustained divergence. If equity markets weaken or housing price growth moderates, the wealth effects currently supporting higher-income consumption could diminish. In such a scenario, the economy would be vulnerable if lower-income households lack the income growth necessary to offset that slowdown.
Importantly, these dynamics do not
suggest that Long Island is entering a period of economic decline. The region’s proximity to New York City, its diversified industry base and the relative strength of sectors such as health care, professional services, technology and finance continue to provide stability. Recent improvements in office occupancy and continued strength in hospitality further reinforce this resilience.
But resilience shouldn’t be confused with inclusivity. The central economic challenge facing Long Island isn’t simply maintaining growth, but also ensuring that growth benefits all industry sectors and sizes. Workforce development, housing affordability and goodpaying jobs that offset higher inflation are essential components of long-term regional economic health. Policymakers and business leaders should remain attentive not only to aggregate indicators, but also to the real impacts of policies on Long Islanders.
As more complete data becomes available in 2026, the contours of Long Island’s economic trajectory are becoming clearer. Aggregate performance remains strong, but the divergence across households warrants careful attention. Economic strength is most durable when the entire population is benefiting from it — and addressing these imbalances will be critical to sustaining Long Island’s long-term prosperity.
Dr. Steve Kent is chief economist of the Long Island Association.
King also called out those athletes who had the nerve to express their dismay and concern over our current administration’s actions and the climate it has created here. Every American athlete has a right to speak their mind. Our athletes travel and train at their own expense, typically requiring immeasurable sacrifice from their families. While chosen to represent our country, they are private citizens, not representatives of the state.
Unfortunately, King missed the point. Everyone was celebrating the men’s victory, just as they had celebrated the women’s win a few days earlier — until the locker room antics. First of all, the FBI director was seen chugging beer, screaming and pouring beer over players’ heads like a sophomoric jock. Then Trump called and invited the team to the White House, and as an afterthought, said the women would have to be invited. And no one winced. No one stood up for the women’s team, which had beaten Canada just days before in overtime. As a matter of fact, they laughed.
The men’s win wasn’t marred by politics. It was marred by the leader of our country’s public disregard for
a select group of Olympians, it was marred by the excuses made for his behavior, and it was marred by those who think it was no big deal.
ELIzABETH MURPHY Franklin Square
Trump’s, and King’s, words matter
To the Editor:
As I’m sure Peter King knows, words still matter. Tone still matters (thank goodness!). A president’s words still matter. Trump’s use of the words “I guess I have to invite the women” has behind it a long history of his sexism and disrespect for women. If someone else had said it, maybe it would have landed differently.
King’s printed words “Lighten up!” are furthering a culture of disrespect toward women. Shame on him. And to think my late grandfather loved him so much. I would hope this article would have changed his mind.
SUzANNE VERA North Bellmore
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BAKED STUFFED SHELLS
OUR TRADITIONAL LASAGNA with homemade sausage, homemade mozzarella, chopped meat and fresh ricotta
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PENNE ALLA VODKA
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BLUE CHEESE AND WALNUTS with dried cranberries
TOSSED SALAD with cucumbers, tomatoes and carrots
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Includes 2 fresh breads and 1 cookie platter Easter Menu $269 99 Easter Menu $449 99 +
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STRING BEANS ALMONDINE
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We
SEAFOOD SALAD ALL MADE FRESH
