Malverne/West Hempstead Herald 02-12-2026

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on Sunday morning.

Pancake breakfast kicks off Super Bowl Sunday

By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com

Hours before the Seahawks and Patriots took the field for the Super Bowl on Sunday, dozens of West Hempstead residents gathered to raise funds for a good cause.

Despite the frigid weather, the West Hempstead Lions Club held its annual Super Bowl Pancake Breakfast fundraiser. Members gathered at the West Hempstead Secondary School’s South Campus Cafe to decorate and prepare a breakfast feast, which also featured raffles and photo ops.

“The pancake breakfast is something that other Lions clubs across the country do,” Mia Murphy, club president, said. “We raise money to use over the course of the year for

other community events, such as our annual Easter Egg Hunt.”

For a $10 fee, adult community members enjoyed an all-you-could-eat breakfast that included pancakes, waffles, scrambled eggs, sausages, bagels, coffee, tea and juice. The fee was $5 for kids ages 6 to 12 and free for kids under 5. Raffles prize baskets offered wines, Valentine’s Day gifts and gift cards for local businesses.

The Lions began hosting the breakfast in 1979. “When I became the district governor of Nassau County, we needed some funds to help get things going,” longtime member Al Brandel recalled, “so that was the first pancake breakfast we had.”

Brandel joined the West Hempstead club

Continued on page 16

How

raise kids who are empowered

By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com

The Hebrew Academy of Nassau County teamed up with the West Hempstead School District on Feb. 2 to deliver a presentation on raising empowered children through positive discipline.

Dozens of people attended the event, which was held at the HANC Reinstein Family Campus, at 240 Hempstead Ave. in West Hempstead.

WRabbi Shimmy Trencher, a licensed social worker, shared his presentation, titled “The Empowered Child: Nurturing Self-Esteem, SelfEfficacy, and Positive Discipline.” He defined self-esteem and how to instill it in children — even while disciplining them — and provided a framework for understanding misbehavior.

“We’re all looking for that magic space where we can connect to our children in a healthy way.”

Trencher, a child and family therapist specializing in behavior, has more than 20 years of experience and is a certified instructor in redirecting children’s behavior approach.

e’re

training our kids to become productive, responsible adults.

R ABBI

ShIMMY TRENchER

Licensed social

“We’re living in a moment where self-esteem, resilience, and healthy discipline are not just timely topics, they’re essential,” Rabbi Ouriel Hazan, HANC’s head of school, said.

He emphasized that while these steps and frameworks are available to guide parents, they may not work for every child or family. He suggested attendees listen, learn and take with them the tips and tricks that they think will help them.

“Parenting is a real challenge,” Trencher said. “From moment to moment, from day to day, we try things, things work, we lose our cool, we’re frustrated, and our children are resilient. Tomorrow is a new day to try some new things.”

He began the presentation by explaining the difference between self-efficacy and self-

Continued on page 12

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Round two for Scianablo, Ferretti this fall

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Joseph Scianablo, a Marine combat veteran, retired New York City Police officer, and former Queens prosecutor, announced his candidacy for Hempstead Town Supervisor last week, launching a rematch against incumbent Republican Supervisor John Ferretti. Here we go again.

Scianablo, a Democrat who ran for the same office last year, said his previous campaign helped bring attention to what he described as back room deals, inflated fees and political favoritism in Town Hall. Now, he says he’s returning “to finish the job.”

Ferretti defeated Scianablo last November. Terms for town supervisors are two years, however following a change in state law next year that shifted county, town and village municipal elections to even years, meaning that Ferretti will return to the ballot this year.

“I am running because the people of the Town of Hempstead deserve a government that works for them, not for a handful of insiders,” Scianablo wrote in his announcement on Feb. 4. “What we uncovered was only the beginning, and it makes it clear there is still more that needs to be brought into the open.”

Following the appointment of Ferretti last August as town supervisor, Scianablo filed a lawsuit alleging that Ferretti and the board violated the state’s Open Meetings Law, which requires 24 hours’ public notice for resolutions scheduled at meetings. State Supreme Court Justice Gary Carlton ruled last October that the appointment had violated the law, but the decision did not nullify Ferretti’s appointment.

His campaign is centered on the slogan “No Com -

Tim Baker/Herald

Joseph Scianablo, a Marine combat veteran, retired New York City police officer, and former Queens prosecutor, announced his candidacy for Hempstead Town Supervisor on Feb. 4.

munity Left Behind,” a promise, he said, to provide equal service to every neighborhood, regardless of political influence or affluence.

“Whether you live in one of the Town’s most affluent neighborhoods or one that’s been ignored for

years,” Scianablo said, “you deserve the same level of service, the same respect, and the same value for your tax dollars.”

If elected, prioritizing exposing mismanagement, initiating an independent audit of town finances, and reducing fees and water costs, are among Scianablo’s top priorities. “We are going to put your money back to work for you,” he added.

His campaign has received the endorsement of New York State and Nassau County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs, who praised Scianablo’s background in military service, law enforcement and the legal system.

“Joe Scianablo represents the very best of public service,” Jacobs wrote in a statement. “He has the courage to tell the truth, the experience to lead, and the determination to deliver real results for the people of Hempstead.”

Scianablo acknowledged that he expects a difficult campaign, but he is prepared. “I’ve taken on tough fights my entire life,” he said. “This is no different. We know there is a lot more to fix and that needs to be brought into the open, and we are ready.”

In response to Scianablo’s announcement, Brian Devine, director of communications for the Town of Hempstead, wrote in a statement to the Herald “Supervisor John Ferretti has made life more affordable for residents by cutting Town taxes by millions of dollars and he will continue to work tirelessly to keep our community the safest in the nation.”

Joseph Cairo, the Nassau County GOP chairman, expressed his confidence in Ferretti’s reelection chances. “John Ferretti has delivered meaningful tax relief, making life more affordable for all residents,” Cairo wrote in an emailed statement to the Herald.

W.H. students prepare for kindergarten

The West Hempstead school district continues its commitment to early childhood education through its Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, offered in partnership with SCOPE at Chestnut Street School. The district also works with both Yeshiva Har Torah and the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County to provide Universal Pre-Kindergarten opportunities.

Designed to support the district’s youngest learners, the program provides 4-year-old children with a strong foundation for success in kindergarten and beyond. The district’s UPK program offers a structured, nurturing environment where children begin building the skills and confidence they will carry into their elementary years.

“We provide the building blocks of physical, social and emotional development as well as the basics of language, literacy, thinking, and cognitive skills,” Lisa Minicozzi, Chestnut Street School principal, said. “Through our UPK program, the West Hempstead school district is able to strengthen the foundations of early learning so that all West Hempstead children are ready to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.”

The district is committed to enrolling as many children as possible in order to expand access to high-quality educational opportunities. The UPK program at Chestnut runs daily from 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with snacks provided. In addition to early academic skills, the program emphasizes social development –helping children build routines, relationships

and confidence before entering kindergarten.

The same is offered at the partner programs, though timing may differ.

“Investing in early learning programs like UPK yields strong results,” Minicozzi said. “Our programs are developmentally appropriate, closely monitored and aligned not only with state standards, but with our district’s mission and vision.”

Research consistently shows that universal access to pre-K supports long-term academic success and social development. According to Minicozzi, enrolling students early allows the district to better support children and families during these critical formative years.

“The sooner we can get them in our seats in our district, the sooner we can envelop them into our pre-K program, and the sooner they’ll reap the benefits,” she said.

Registration for the UPK program is ongoing. Children who are legal residents of the West Hempstead school district and will be 4 years old by Dec. 1, 2026 are eligible to apply for the 2026-2027 UPK program.

Families interested in registering their child for UPK can contact Desiree Ventura, secretary to the principal at Chestnut Street School, at (516) 390-3150 or email her at dventura@whufsd.com.

For further information on the partner programs, you can call the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County at (516) 565-5640 and Yeshiva Har Torah at (718) 343-2533.

–Madison Gusler

Herald, Reworld honor sustainability leaders

This spring, Long Island’s environmental champions take center stage as community leaders, educators, students and advocates gather for the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld.™

The event at the Heritage Club in Bethpage on May 14 will mark the second year of a growing regional tradition dedicated to recognizing those driving meaningful sustainability efforts across Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Presented by Reworld™ and hosted by the Herald Community Media and RichnerLIVE, the awards program spotlights local individuals and organizations whose work is shaping a sustainable future for Long Island. Former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason is scheduled to make an appearance, joining organizers in celebrating the honorees. His participation is expected to bring added energy to an evening focused on leadership and impact.

Reworld™ views its continued investment in the Sustainability Awards as a natural extension of its mission to

empower communities and advance sustainable practices. The evening will celebrate leadership rooted in action, collaboration and community impact.

Attendees can expect an evening that brings together voices from across the environmental spectrum. Conversations will center on waste reduction, renewable practices, conservation, and education, issues that affect Long Island’s neighborhoods, shorelines and future generations. The event emphasizes community-driven initiatives that begin locally and create lasting change.

A highlight of the night will be the presentation of multiple sustainability awards recognizing those who have made significant contributions to environmental progress. The program will also feature the Student Sustainability Champion Award, honoring one student each from Nassau and Suffolk Counties. For more information about the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld™ and to request an invitation, visit RichnerLive. com.

Nassau girls wrestling takes center stage

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Reese Adams experienced a wave of emotions for the second time in as many years at the Nassau County girls wrestling championships.

While recovering from knee surgery last February, the thenCalhoun High School junior was devastated to be a spectator for the inaugural tournament. This year, however, she was elated to not only participate but to capture a title in what would be her lone opportunity.

Adams rallied from behind to pin MacArthur’s Olivia Rausenberger in 1:52 of the first period of the finals to win the 126-pound crown Feb. 1 at her home away from home — Long Beach High School. Her father, Ray, has coached the Marines’ wrestlers for 30 years.

“It was thrilling and a relief at the same time because I put so much pressure on myself,” Reese said. “To finally accomplish what I’ve worked so hard for is exciting.”

She underwent surgery the day before Thanksgiving in 2024 and missed all of last season. That didn’t stop her from attending the county championships at Bethpage High School, but it wasn’t easy to watch.

“I cried a lot, but I wanted to support some of my best friends who were competing,” said Reese, who is Calhoun’s lone female wrestler and practiced with the boys team every day. “I’m glad it was at Long Beach this time,” she added. “I practically grew up watching wrestling in that gym so it was a comfortable environment.”

Adams fell behind Rausenberger 5-0 before scoring a take-

down to get on the board, followed by the pin.

“It was a rough year for her rehabbing and I’m so proud to see her win a county title,” Ray Adams said of his Lehigh University bound daughter. “She worked so hard to get back on the mat.”

Long Beach girls coach Miguel Rodriguez said the vibe for the finals was “incredible.”

The Marines had five finalists and saw seventh-grader Brooke Varian finish a surprise runner-up at 94 pounds, and freshman Harley Eidens repeat as a county champ, taking the 107pound title.

“We had a lot of great performances and those two really had a day,” Rodriguez said. “Brooke is a great athlete who loves lacrosse and is so coachable. Harley was familiar with her opponent in the finals and was very strong defensively at the end to hold on.”

Harley’s sister, Presley, was second at 114 to MacArthur’s Grace Palumbo and earned a wild-card berth to join her twin at the state tournament Feb. 26 in Albany. Junior Goddiss Hodge and Arianna Balsamo and also reached the county finals stage.

Uniondale, which captured the Nassau dual meet team title with a 34-30 victory over Long Beach Jan. 21, continued its spectacular season with three county champions and two runners-up. Coach Tim Godoy said the Knights began the campaign with 45 girls as interest in the sport has exploded.

“The girls are excited to be a part of something new and they really put the work in,” he said. “We had great support from parents and family members as well as about half of

Uniondale’s Angeline Bonilla, won the first finals bout of the tournament at 94 pounds.

our boys team showed up. It was a special day.”

Uniondale junior Angeline Bonilla, who took third place last season, captured the 94-pound title over Varian with a 12-5 decision.

“The impossible doesn’t seem that far away if you keep pushing,” Bonilla said. “It was the first match of the finals and not going to lie, I was a little nervous. Brooke is a tough wrestler and I felt it was a 50-50 match. I couldn’t have done it without my coaches.”

Also for the Knights, junior Brianna Marquez captured the 100-pound championship and junior Keishara Tulloch was a repeat county champ, winning at 152 over junior teammate Gabrielle Christian. Senior and first-year wrestler Emely Ramos reached the finals at 165, pulling several upsets along the way.

“The support these girls have for each other is awesome,” Godoy said. “They were all screaming at the top of their lungs.”

Ferretti deploys ‘Pothole Patrol’ to tackle repairs

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

As winter conditions continue to strain Long Island roadways, Hempstead Town officials are rolling out a new strategy to tackle potholes before they worsen during the busiest repair season of the year.

Town Supervisor John Ferretti announced the launch of the town’s Pothole Patrol during a news conference in Merrick, citing repeated freezethaw cycles and heavy traffic as the primary causes of pavement deterioration.

“This is the time of year where potholes form from the constant freezing and melting of rain and snow. They aren’t just an inconvenience — they’re a safety issue,” Ferretti said. “The Pothole Patrol is part of our ongoing commitment to invest in infrastructure and maintain the quality of life enjoyed by our residents. Well-maintained roads protect vehicles, improve safety, and support our local economy.”

The initiative assigns crews to monitor streets daily and respond to reported hazards in an effort to reduce vehicle damage and improve roadway safety. Four newly hired patrol workers attended the event, and town officials said the program includes two dedicated trucks operating at all times, each staffed by four employees and equipped with machinery designed to dispense asphalt quickly.

Unlike previous years, when repairs were largely complaint-driven, the new patrol will actively search for potholes throughout the township. Pothole repairs will be prioritized based on traffic volume, visibility, and proximity to high-use locations such as schools and commercial corridors.

The initiative also introduces a new online reporting portal, developed by the town’s Information Technology Department, that allows residents to submit reports directly to the town. Users may enter an address manually or enable GPS location services on their devices to pinpoint a pothole, and photos can be uploaded to assist repair crews.

“We are relying on residents to be our eyes and ears,” Ferretti added. “By reporting potholes through our online form, they will help us prioritize repairs and respond faster. It’s a convenient way for our community to partner with us in keeping our roads in top-tier shape.”

The system can automatically determine whether a reported road falls under town, county, or state jurisdiction, and it will redirect residents if the pothole is outside town responsibility.

Ferretti addressed concerns that patched potholes may reopen, noting that full repaving cannot be done during winter months. Temporary repairs will continue until spring, when repaving resumes. The town maintains roughly 1,200 miles of roadway, repaving more than 100 miles in 2025 and

planning to exceed that in 2026 as part of a 12-year plan to resurface every town road.

Residents can now utilize the reporting form at HempsteadTown.com/PotholePatrol.

Town Supervisor John Ferretti announced the launch of Pothole Patrol, a new strategy aimed to tackle potholes before they worsen during the repair season.

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Top real estate professionals honored at Heritage Club

By HAILEY FULMER

The Herald’s Real Estate Achievement +Leadership Awards at the Heritage Club on Jan. 28 celebrated professionals whose leadership and innovation have shaped the region’s real estate landscape.

Kelly Killoren Bensimon, founder, owner and broker specialist of Kelly Killoren Bensimon Inc. and Douglas Elliman was honored for her impact on real estate leadership. A former model and reality television personality, Bensimon has successfully transitioned into a successful real estate career. Her keynote speech reflected on her path into the industry.

After her mother became ill, Bensimon said she sold her family home by herself — a moment that inspired her to shift from television to real estate. Today, she focuses on client relationships and enhancing the value of the properties she represents.

I became licensed because I needed to protect my family — and today, that instinct drives everything I do,” she said.

Steven Krieger, chief executive officer of B2K Development, was named Real Estate Visionary of the Year, while Jan Burman, chairman of B2K Development, received the Legacy in Real Estate award.

The Rising Stars category recognized emerging professionals. Honorees included James La Dolce, vice president and branch manager at Flushing Bank, and Ashley Infantino, a licensed real estate salesperson with DeSimone Real Estate Agency.

Awards for construction, development and engineering recognized Rob Mannino, chief operating officer of The Kulka Group, who received the Commercial and Residential Construction Management award.

“It is such a pleasure to go to work every day and be surrounded by those people,” Mannino said, crediting his team’s growth over the past two years. He also expressed gratitude to partner Devin Kulka, chief executive officer of The Kulka Group, and his father, citing their guidance and leadership.

Joseph Picataggi Jr., principal of Terra Construction Group, received the Development and Construction award, while Matthew K. Aylward, a partner at R&M Engi-

neering, was recognized for excellence in engineering.

Michael S. Ackerman, managing partner of Ackerman Law, took home the Excellence in Real Estate Law, PLLC. Keith P. Brown, a partner at Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP, received recognition in the Legal category, and Robert M. Connelly of Romer Debbas, LLP, earned the Excellence in Real Estate Law award.

“We are proud to honor Long Island’s most accomplished real estate professionals — individuals whose vision, dedication and innovation continue to shape the towns where we live, work and raise our families,” said Stuart Richner, president of Richner Communications for 26 years.

The Father/Son Duo award was presented to John and Dylan Vitale, president and vice president of Vitale Properties, recognizing multigenerational leadership.

The Next Gen Brokerage category recognized Luca Di Ciero, founder and CEO of NYSpace Finders, and Giuseppe Gregorio, an associate broker with the firm. Gregorio, who began his real estate career 12 years ago, said he was drawn to the industry’s evolving challenges. he Power Team honor was awarded to Darab Lawyer and Vanessa Ambrosecchia, licensed real estate salespersons with Douglas Elliman. Ambrosecchia highlighted the impact of her work on clients.

“I just like helping people,” she said, “to change more lives.”

Additional awards recognized

leadership across the industry. Shaan Khan, president of the Long Island Board of REALTORS® and broker-owner of RK Realty Group, received the Real Estate Excellence award. Denise Savino-Erichsen, president and CEO of Automatic Industries, was honored in the Technology category.

In the commercial sector, Jonathan M. Stern, chief growth officer of Ackman-Ziff Real Estate Group, was recognized in celebration of the firm’s centennial anniversary. Michael Tucker, associate broker at DGNY Commercial, received the Commercial Brokerage award. Joel Lipsky, chief executive officer of Lipsky Construction, received the Construction Management award.

Tom Attivissimo, CEO and principal of Greiner-Maltz Co. of Long Island LLC, was named Top In-

dustrial and Investment Sales and Leasing Counselor of the Year. Shalom Maidenbaum, founder and owner of Maidenbaum Property Tax Reduction Group LLC, received the Property Tax Reduction award.

Additional residential awards were presented to Nicholas Sforza of Manhasset Realty Group and Marisa Filardo of Douglas Elliman, both recognized for Real Estate Excellence. Filardo, a mother of two, serves clients across Long Island and Queens.

The Team Leadership award went to Rachel King, a licensed associate real estate broker and team leader of The King Team at SERHANT.

For photos, go to RichnerLive. com/realawards/2026-photos/ For more on RichnerLive events visit RichnerLive.com.

Rams students show off their STEM skills

On Jan. 8, innovation and creativity were on full display during the West Hempstead School District’s annual STEMposium. Students transformed the second floor of West Hempstead Secondary School into a hub of scientific discovery and engineering design.

Classrooms, science labs, and the media library showcased STEM as students presented their projects that tackled real-world challenges through hands-on research, experimentation, and problem solving. The event was the culmination of months of student dedication, highlighting the power of inquiry-based learning.

Students participating in the STEMposium selected to execute the scientific method or engineering design in their research. Over the course of three months, students developed either a scientific conclusion based on research and experimentation, or a working prototype designed to solve a real-world problem.

The STEMposium included students enrolled in Science 7 and 8, Living Environment, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics, making it a district wide celebration of STEM learning across multiple grade levels and disciplines.

Families and district administrators attended the event, engaging with students as they shared their indepth presentations and explained the thinking behind their projects. The STEMposium provided an opportunity for students to demonstrate not only their content knowledge, but also critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.

–Madison Gusler

SCHOOL briefS

W.H. enters Samsung Solve for Tomorrow

The West Hempstead Secondary School’s science research students were awarded $1,000 for their entry into the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2025-26 Education Contest.

Solve for Tomorrow addresses the countrywide academic challenge of increasing students’ pursuit of science, technology, engineering, and math education. Students are tasked with showing how STEM can be applied to help improve their communities.

This year, West Hempstead’s students are designing a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine. The goal is to create compact turbines that can be mounted on highway median barriers to harvest wind energy from passing traffic and natural currents. By installing arrays of these 18-inch turbines, the students

aim to power local streetlights and warning signs.

The team projects that installing 50-100 units on a single barrier could charge a battery bank sufficient to power 20-30 streetlights.

The students began their work in October by researching academic articles to determine the optimal aerodynamic shape. Their new technology teacher, Damian Giorlando, assisted the students by helping to improve their 3D modeling skills in Tinkercad. Currently, the team is working with physics teacher Cole Johnsen to design a wiring system that maximizes energy output. Once complete, they will connect the turbine blades to a generator and gear housing system.

–Madison Gusler

On Jan. 13, students at West Hempstead Secondary School gained real-world insight into future careers during Career Day.

West Hempstead enjoys Career Day

On Jan. 13, eighth and ninth grade students at West Hempstead Secondary School gained real-world insight into future career opportunities during Career Day, a day long event sponsored by Career Day Inc.

The program helped students see how the courses they take today connect to success beyond the classroom. Representatives from a wide range of companies and organizations shared their personal career journeys. Stu -

dents learned about different industries, educational pathways, and the skills needed to achieve long-term goals.

Career Day Inc. is dedicated to introducing high school students to diverse career paths and real-life experiences. The program fosters an atmosphere of acceptance, inspiration, and opportunity for students at all academic levels.

–Madison Gusler

DEC head discusses state’s goals, policies

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

More than 200 people attended the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Feb. 5 at LIA headquarters in Melville. The highlight of the program was a discussion with the commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Amanda Lefton.

“Long Island’s environment is our economy,” Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO, said. LIA is a nonprofit association that works to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality.

Lefton previously served as the director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management in the Department of the Interior. She has over 15 years of experience working on energy and environment in both the public and private sector.

“As Long Islanders, we know that things like water quality and our natural resources are critical to our livelihood,” she said. “We know these things aren’t in competition, but actually complement each other if done correctly. That is the perspective that I bring to the department.

“We continue to move forward,” Lefton added, “to make sure that we’re not just delivering on our mission of protecting the state’s environment, protecting water quality, delivering on clean air, protecting our natural resources,

but also doing so in a way that there’s transparency.”

Billy Haugland, vice chair of the Energy and Environment Committee, who led the discussion, praised Lefton’s ability to bring government and industry leaders together, leading to productive outcomes, increased collaboration, and reliable environmental stewardship.

Lefton discussed aspects of the state’s policy proposals and 2026 executive budget, and highlighted its steps to reduce pollution, its transition to clean energy and investments in infrastructure and transportation. She contrasted state actions with federal efforts to dismantle environmental protections. “The jobs and benefits that could be lost on Long Island through the stalling of offshore wind projects are one of the many causalities of this chaos,” she said.

Lefton pledged to continue communicating with stakeholders around New York. The DEC is prioritizing accessibility, streamlining its processes and improving data navigation, supported by investments from Gov. Kathy Hochul to modernize its website and technology.

Hochul’s 2026 budget proposal also supports a robust environmental agenda, and Lefton complimented the tangible results for New Yorkers. The governor’s “Let Them Build” agenda includes a series of reforms to speed up housing and infrastructure projects and reduce costs. The initiative includes adopting

common-sense reforms of the State Environmental Quality Review Act to speed up construction of zoned and permitted housing while preserving environmental safeguards. It also aims to reduce delays in building critical infrastructure, including clean-water projects.

“The governor’s common-sense approach to securing more certainty in environmental review timelines,” Lefton said, “will help advance more critically important projects.”

She discussed Hochul’s investments in water infrastructure, a commitment of $3.75 billion to clean-water projects over the next five years, including improving sewer infrastructure. “We can ensure that we’re continuing to tackle urban contaminants, protecting clean water, and delivering on the funding for our municipalities,” Lefton said.

The Hochul administration has authorized a critical resiliency project on Long Island, with a $1.7 billion investment in protecting the expanse from Fire Island to Montauk against storms and erosion. Additional investments have been made for various other Army Corps of Engineers resiliency projects in the Rockaways and Long Beach.

Lefton also mentioned a state grant award to Freeport, supporting the expansion of its advanced stormwater system, which is designed to reduce chronic flooding of the village’s lowlying streets.

“We have strong programs in place to protect our air and water while encouraging investment in our communities,” Lefton said. “We’re ensuring that we have these programs available specifically to deliver for Long Islanders.”

Nurturing your child to have self-esteem

esteem. Self-efficacy is one’s belief in their ability to successfully perform a specific task or behavior, while selfesteem refers to a person’s confidence in their worth, value and competence.

“We ideally want our kids to have strong self-efficacy, to feel like they can do something,” Trencher said, “but to also have a high-level of self-esteem, to feel good about themselves.”

He made sure the crowd understood that discipline isn’t just about the incident, but also teaching the child. “It’s about allowing them to develop their

MARCH

3 2026

level of responsibility,” he said. “We’re training our kids to become productive, responsible adults.”

Trencher discussed nine methods to raise an empowered child by building self-esteem and using positive discipline.

These methods included respecting developmental stages — encouraging parents to be aware of what is considered normal behavior for the child’s age and abilities so they don’t discipline their child for developmentally appropriate behaviors — and using encouragement instead of praise — focusing on the child’s effort and instilling a trust of

themselves by highlighting their internal validation over your external praise.

He encouraged parents to offer “genuine encounter moments” and show their children unconditional love. GEMs, coined by psychologist Dorothy Briggs, refer to moments of real connection between children and parents. By giving your child your full attention — listening to them, engaging with them, and sharing experiences — you build trust and emotional security with the child.

“There’s so much going on, and it’s so hard for us to focus, which is why doing this consciously and choosing to make

time for this goes a long way,” Trencher said.

Trencher also discussed the four misdirected goals of behavior. According to psychologist Rudolf Dreikurs, children’s misbehavior is often aimed at meeting an underlying need.

“If you can figure out what that need is, then you could discipline differently based on that need and improve the child’s behavior,” Trencher said, suggesting to identify the goal of the behavior by how the child’s actions make the parent feel.

Children seeking power may feel they must be in control to belong, and may argue or defy requests. This may make their parents angry and feel challenged, but to address the behavior, parents should present their children with choices so they feel in charge of the outcome, Trencher said.

When children seek attention, they may associate it with their value and exhibit attention-seeking behavior to engage an adult’s focus, Trencher added. When a parent is busy, the child may feel irritated or annoyed but the parent can express love for the child without attention, such as showing physical affection. If children feel hurt or rejected, they may become intentionally hurtful and seek revenge through their words, actions or withdrawal. This may cause their parents to feel hurt, offended, shocked or personally attacked, but they must validate their children’s feelings and work to maintain their relationship, he added.

Children expressing avoidance by refusing to try or appearing helpless when presented with a task may feel they’re incapable of completing that goal. Parents may feel inclined to rescue their children or lower expectations, but instead of being discouraged, they should break things down into smaller steps.

At the end Trencher answered questions from parents, who wanted to know how to apply the lessons in their lives.

■ Respect developmental stages

■ Set clear boundaries and follow through

■ Offer “genuine encounter moments”

■ Teach children to repair mistakes

■ Tell children what to do, not what to don’t

■ Be firm and kind

■ Use encouragement instead of praise

■ Show unconditional love

■ Allow your children to be valuable to you

STEPPING OUT

Our nation 250 years later

An artistic perspective

By Abbey Salvemini

The American Revolution might have happened 250 years ago, but the conversation about who really benefited from it is far from over. That’s the idea behind Hofstra University Museum of Art’s newlly opened exhibition, “Our Unfinished Revolution(s).” On view, through July 24, it invites visitors to reflect on the promises of liberty, exploring how the ideals of the Declaration of Independence have shaped the nation.

July 4, 1776, has long been ascribed as the date that the United States was formed, Presley Rodriguez — the museum’s assistant director of exhibitions and collections — writes in her essay in the exhibit catalog. There are other events that could have represented the birth of the nation — perhaps first battles of the Revolutionary War, or the signing of the treaty that formally ended the conflict. But it is the day that the Declaration of Independence was ratified that is credited with changing the world as we know it.

‘RENT’ in concert

Today, many consider the Declaration of Independence as the document that proclaimed “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” as guiding priorities of the United States. As significant as the signing of the Declaration of Independence was, however, it was also a rebellious act that those loyal to the English king viewed unfavorably in 1776.

“The Declaration of Independence is the North Star of liberty, democracy and freedom,” says Hofstra Museum Director Sasha Giordano. “The exhibition explores who most benefitted from the Declaration of Independence. Although women, Black and enslaved people, Indigenous peoples, and immigrants played instrumental roles during the Revolution and were closely connected to the events surrounding the Declaration, they were not granted the same liberties at the nation’s founding.”

The 250 years of history are organized into four dated sections: 1776, 1876, 1976 and 2026. The artworks and archival materials on view illuminate the ways in which the Declaration of Independence has been interpreted, challenged and defended over time. Works drawn from the museum’s permanent collection, alongside loans featuring artists such as Faith Ringgold, demonstrate the diversity of artistic responses to the Revolution’s legacy across 250 years. Included are a mix of 18th-century prints, mid-century works and contemporary pieces by artists such as Alexander Calder, Larry Rivers and Jeremy Dennis, the show’s featured artist.

Groups whose liberties were initially denied come into focus: women, Black, Indigenous and immigrant communities. Rodriguez — who curated this exhibit — searched Hofstra’s database for art that best captures their stories.

“This is really an homage to 250 years of freedom,” she explains. “There are walls in the gallery dedicated to each of these anniversary years, and the artwork was created around these moments.”

Beginning with 1776 section, works reflect the founding ideals and the exclusion of certain communities, while later sections show how those

Map of New England, 1676, ink on paper. Gift of unknown donor, HU62.7.

Washington Crossing the Delaware, Evening Previous to the Battle of Trenton, December 5 (sic), 1776, 18001900, hand-colored lithograph. Gift of Mary Estabrook, HU64.98.

Bill of Sale for Enslaved Person, 1779. Courtesy of Special Collections/ Long Island Studies Institute, Hofstra University Library.

struggles continued and evolved.

For Giordano, framing the Revolution as “unfinished” allows us to revisit and reclaim its milestones. It’s presented as an ongoing conversation, rather than a closed chapter in history.

“Anniversaries are a way to remind us of what we celebrate and how we honor our country’s life,” she says. “This exhibition meets viewers where they are. You bring your own ideas and thoughts, and it encourages reflection. It could challenge you, or it could reaffirm what you already feel.”

Jeremy Dennis, an enrolled member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation and founder of Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio Inc., brings an Indigenous perspective into the narrative of America’s evolving freedom through his photography.

“As a leader making art representing Indigenous people, his work speaks to current times and shares a relevant story,” Giordano adds. “Through his art and photography, he takes us into that world.”

Another standout is Faith

Ringgold’s 2009 series, “Declaration of Freedom and Independence.” Her work perfectly embodies the exhibition’s theme and reflects the ongoing struggle to make liberty a reality for all, according to Rodriguez.

“The exhibition invites you to consider your own role in shaping the nation’s future. The response wall allows visitors to contribute their perspectives, and those ideas will literally be on display for others to see,” she adds.

Her aim is that visitors reflect not only on the past but think hard about what our future holds. Everyone is encouraged to contribute to the Wish Wall Project, the collaborative response wall developed by a nationwide network of museums and libraries, where all can leave their thoughts, reflections and reactions to the exhibition.

“Our Unfinished Revolution(s),” connects to the broader Untold Stories of Revolution: A Hofstra University Initiative for the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, a campus-wide exploration of the Revolution’s lesser-known narratives. Related programming tied to the exhibit invites students, faculty and the public to engage with themes of democracy, equity and civic responsibility.

Events include a conversation with Dennis on March 5 and a curator-led gallery tour on April 9; programs that allow participants to engage more deeply with the exhibit.

“During the gallery tour, visitors will have a chance to notice details they might miss on a casual visit, and they can hear the stories behind why specific works were included,” Rodriguez says.

The unforgettable music of Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking musical fills Tilles Center in a powerful symphonic concert setting. RENT is currently celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades since its Off-Broadway debut in January 1996 and subsequent move to Broadway. Experience the music of Larson’s landmark work through its original Broadway legacy as Adam Pascal, who originated the role of Roger, hosts the evening and returns to the stage for a special encore performance. Presented in a symphonic concert format with full orchestra, the event celebrates the iconic songs that changed musical theater forever. “To be able to host RENT in concert and then step back on stage for an encore is incredibly special, Pascal says. This concert is about honoring Jonathan Larson’s voice, the community that formed around this show, and the power of these songs to still speak, loudly and honestly, to audiences today.”

Friday, Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

‘So don’t stop me now’ Queen-mania rolls on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages with an unforgettable concert experience. The carefully curated setlist featuring Queen’s best-loved songs, including, of course, classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more.

Saturday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

FEB

Black

History Month celebration

Malverne school district welcomes all to celebrate Black History Month. With presentations and performances by the Malverne High School Black History Club.

• Where: Malverne Performing Arts Center, 80 Ocean Ave., Malverne

• Time: 7 p.m.

Lunar New Year program

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

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

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

In concert

Enjoy a concert at West Hempstead Public Library. Hear “A Time For Love” performed by Jay Daniels. Seating is on a first come basis.

• Where: 500 Hempstead Ave., West Hempstead

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: whplibrary.org or (516) 481-6591

FEB

16

Pete’s Blue Carpet Catwalk

Walk the blue carpet as a VIP to celebrate Long Island Children’s Museum’s premiere performance of Pete the Cat! Dress your best, smile for the paparazzi, and take a picture with Pete! A special youth emcee will be interviewing VIPs on camera. Gain exclusive access to Pete’s Groovy Lounge for refreshments, enjoy the opening day performance of the show and take home a fun swag bag! You’ll even get to

Wild days in the Bronx

100 years of jaw-dropping “No Way!” moves, Wow!” moments and basketball thrills. From gravity-defying dunks to gamechanging tricks, fans feel the history, the joy, and the fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver. For the first time, the team will also debut their new 100 Year jerseys, honoring a century of global impact, as they face off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Fans can also expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, and an unforgettable 5th Quarter autograph session.

• Where: Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com

FEB 22

Malverne Scouts history

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his remarkable career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on Palminteri’s own bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nine-years-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that would forever shape his view of the world. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro — and later a hit Broadway musical. Born and raised in the Bronx, Palminteri stands firmly in the lineage of iconic Italian-American artists who redefined New York storytelling in the 1970s, including Martin Scorsese, De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci. Like them, he brings grit, muscle and an unflinching realism to his work, capturing both the violence and the humanity of life on those sidewalks. This return engagement offers audiences a chance to experience the original, powerhouse performance that started it all — up close, uncompromising and unforgettable.

meet the cast after the show! For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. Join Jimmy and Pete on an adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW bus! $16 ($14 members), $20 theater and catwalk experience only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Starting at 11:30 a.m.

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

Balloon Twisting 101

FEB

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

The Malverne Historical Society highlights the history of scouting in Malverne during its monthly open house tours. All scouts and residents are invited.

• Where: Malverne Historical House, 369 Ocean Ave., Malverne

• Time: 2-4 p.m.

• Contact: malvernehistory.org

Library for a tribute to Chicago. Make Me Smile takes everyone ona musical journey that transcends time and space to bring the iconic sounds of Chicago to life. The band brings “classic rock with horns” to life right before your eyes. $40, $35 seniors.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870

Black History Month Celebration

Prepare, inflate and tie balloons with professional balloon twister Jenny the Clown. Learn how to mold the balloon into the shape of a dog and practice your new skills to create cool designs. Ages 8-16.

• Where: Lakeview Public Library 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre

• Time: 5 p.m.

• Contact: lakviewlibrary.org or (516) 536-3071 FEB

‘The Wedding Singer’ Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre students stage the musical comedy based on the iconic film. The show will have you partying like it’s 1985! Travel back to the outrageous 1980s, when hair was huge, neon ruled fashion and everything MTV was “like, totally tubular.” Based on the mega-hit Adam Sandler movie, this Broadway romance about a heartbroken rock star wannabe finding love again is jam-packed with big laughs, dazzling dance numbers, and a score as bold and electric as the decade itself. From popped collars to power ballads, “The Wedding Singer” is a nostalgic, feel-good celebration of love, friendship and all things ‘80s.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.; also Feb. 21, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Feb 22, 3 p.m.

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

‘Baby, please don’t go…’

Plaza Theatrical invites to all to its stage at Elmont Memorial FEB

Join the Lakeview Public Library and enjoy the Griots in concert. The Griots combine music, song, and storytelling in an inspirational and educational show for all ages.

• Where: Lakeview Public Library 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre

• Time: 12:30 p.m.

• Contact: lakeviewlibrary.org or (516) 536-3071

Harlem Globetrotters

Don’t miss out on the action when the Globetrotters bring the team’s 100 Year Tour — the most legendary tour in Globetrotters history — to Nassau Coliseum. This centennial season is a once-in-a-century celebration of

Art talk

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts Dee Shapiro, a New York–based artist, is known for her richly detailed paintings exploring geometry, architecture, and place. She discusses works from her City and Landscapes series featured in The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal exhibit, which capture the rhythm and structure of urban and natural environments.. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). Limited seating, register in advance.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

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.

Rams shine at district wide talent show

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

It was a night under the stars on Jan. 29 as over 150 people gathered in the West Hempstead Secondary School’s auditorium for the first annual district wide talent show.

The schools have previously held talent shows but this was the first year that performers were invited from all four schools in the district to participate.

Over 20 students, ranging from kindergartners to high school seniors, performed songs, dances and comedy programs for the crowd to enjoy.

The night was organized by the West Hempstead school district’s fine, performing and culinary arts department and the Parent Teacher Student Association’s Parents Supporting the Arts group.

The Parents Supporting the Arts is a new group within the PTSA dedicated to promoting and supporting West Hempstead’s arts programs. “You can always create art, whether it’s dancing, drawing, or making ceramics,” Alison Heikkila, a parent in the Parents Supporting the Arts group, said. “We’re trying to bring that out and showcase what our students can do.”

“The arts, in my mind, are one of the most important aspects of schooling,” Heikkila said about volunteering and helping organize the event. “Beyond having math and science, you need to let your creative side flourish and give these kids the chance to play an instrument. This show gives them the opportunity to do anything they want and show off their talents.”

“We have good arts here,” Laila Sales, director of the fine, performing and culinary arts department, said. “Not just the programs and departments, but we

have some really talented students that may not be in art programs here but want to share their skills.”

Sales encouraged the students to take leadership over the event. Executive student director Jayden Harripersad, helped introduce the performers with humor alongside fellow master of ceremonies Maggie Haber-

strah. The students helped each other on stage and behind the scenes, working backstage, marketing the event, or assisting with acts.

The evening of performances concluded with an act from Oswaldo Machado, a West Hempstead alumni who won the high school talent show in 2010.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,

Plaintiff - against - ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF LEROY FLOWERS, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on December 1, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 24th day of February, 2026 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at West Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 846 Bradley Street, West Hempstead, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11552.

(Section: 35, Block: 430, Lot: 6 and 7)

Approximate amount of lien $348,906.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 601550/2023. Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618

Tel. 585/760-8218

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

Dated: December 16, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency,

bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 157852

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE BANKERS, INC., -againstPETER W. COPPOLA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on December 8, 2025, wherein NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE BANKERS, INC. is the Plaintiff and PETER W. COPPOLA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 3, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 596 LINDEN STREET, WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY

11552; and the following tax map identification: 35-393-12. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WEST HEMPSTEAD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 612045/2024.

Christy M. Demelfi, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 158033

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 2005-4, NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4, Plaintiff, AGAINST

MICHEAL ROBINSON

A/K/A MICHAEL

ROBINSON A/K/A

MICHAEL W.

ROBINSON, SUZANNE

ROBINSON A/K/A

SUZANNE G. ROBINSON, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on December 19, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 615 Hempstead Gardens Drive, West Hempstead, NY 11552.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at West Hempstead, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0035, Block 00419-00 and Lot 00118. Approximate amount of judgment $258,638.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #606524/2024.

Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 158027

Lions Club hosts annual Super Bowl fundraiser

from page 1

in 1975, and became district governor in 1980. He went on to serve as international president of the organization in 2008.

The inaugural breakfast was held at the American Legion Hall, on Woodlawn Avenue. Over the years it became a local tradition on Super Bowl Sunday morning, and it later moved to the secondary school.

“It’s one of our largest fundraisers, and it’s become a staple in the community,” Brandel said. “Everybody comes — they look forward to this day before the Super Bowl.”

The Lions not only raised money for the club, but also collected donations of toiletry items for the INN, a Hempsteadbased nonprofit that provides food and shelter to those experiencing homelessness, hunger and poverty.

Diners also participated in a cashprize Super Hero Raffle for the benefit of the Brandel-Murphy Youth Foundation.

“When I finished being international president, the Lions usually give the outgoing president a car,” Brandel said. “I didn’t need a car, and they had the money, so I said, ‘Let’s make a fund and start helping kids across New York

state.’”

Brandel and his wife, Maureen Murphy, created the foundation in 2009. Brandel, a retired Nassau County police detective, worked with children suffering abuse and neglect. Murphy had also worked with children as a pediatrician and a pediatric anesthesiologist. “Children have been very close to our heart,” Brandel said.

The foundation provides matching grants for Lions Clubs in New York and Bermuda, which is included in the New York Lions Club district, to help fund projects they can’t afford to do on their own to help children in need.

The breakfast also featured a display of posters entered in the Lions Club International Peace Poster Contest, in which students ages 11-13 draw pictures that illustrate a theme chosen by the organization. This year’s theme is Harmony in Humanity.

“I encourage anyone and everyone to look up Lions Club International and learn a little bit about what the organization does across the world,” Murphy said. Anyone interested in joining the West Hempstead club can visit its Facebook page for more details.

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What do we do about cold spots in a new house?

Q. We are in our house for the first winter, and are noticing lots of cold spots. Our concern is pipes freezing. Is there anything we can do, temporarily, before spring comes, when we can open outside walls to see where insulation is missing? Also, we have a lot of creaking in the stairs and doors, and even just when the wind is howling. Is there anything we can do?

A. With freezing temperatures comes the reveal of lots of cold spots. As you stated, the biggest concern, immediately, is whether cold areas are near pipes, such as heat pipes or bathroom plumbing. Cold air outside will radiate cold to anything not protected, and if you see that the heat has dropped and the pipes feel cool or cold to touch, that should be the first place to start.

Sometimes people just add a jacket of pipe insulation, but this may worsen the problem in some instances, because the warmer interior air must reach the pipes to keep them from being jammed with ice from the cold-air exposure. In situations like this, it’s best to open the walls where the pipes have frozen and get the pipes warmed up. Don’t use anything with extreme heat or an open flame. A hair dryer may work, but be careful not to make the heat intense enough to start any kind of melting or scorching of the surrounding materials.

I once felt around heat pipes, found the specific spot by touch, and before heat could be applied, the pipe actually split right there in front of me. My plumber used an electric heat clamp to thaw the pipe before cutting the section and replacing it.

As for other parts of the house where it just feels chilled, check for visible gaps around windows, walk barefoot to feel the cool spots and make a list. Some may be almost unreachable without tearing out large sections of interior gypsum or plaster, while others may be able to be filled with insulation. I recommend blown-in cellulose instead of foam, because the foam may encase wires or pipes that later will take much more effort to remove.

Apply foam to areas you can see. Be careful not to use expanding foam in areas that will cause the materials around to move too much, such as around window frames, unless the windows and doors are tightly closed in the frame. Expanding foam will bow the door and window frames so that you can’t close doors and windows later.

This is a good time to use a silicone lubricant, adding a few drops to hinges of doors. The stairs need to be addressed with care, especially hardwood finished treads, so as to not damage them. If you can get under the stairs, try using construction glue at joints before moving on to screws. Only treated, finished nails, adhesive-coated, will work from above. Be prepared to match the wood finish over the tiny nail heads. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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

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There are better ways to resolve the immigration crisis

The raging debate over Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s policies and practices has potential long-term consequences for the nation that transcend the political partisanship of the moment. Let me say up front that I support ICE, and believe it serves an important national purpose. I also believe that constructive changes can be made in those policies and practices that will not undermine the agency’s underlying mission to enforce America’s immigration laws.

As a grandson of immigrants who grew up in an immigrant environment, I strongly support legal immigration, which I believe is the lifeblood of our nation and has made us unique in the world. I emphasize “legal” because, especially in today’s world of drug cartels and violent gangs, it is vital that we know who it is we are inviting to live among us. There is also the reality that a country without borders isn’t really a country. It is generally accepted that the Biden administration allowed at least 10 million immigrants to enter the country illegally. If only 1 percent of that number were bad actors, it would mean that at least 100,000 potential drug dealers,

sex traffickers and gang members are loose on our streets and in our neighborhoods.

Some historical perspective: President Obama determined that 5 million undocumented immigrants in the country constituted a crisis, and during his administration more than 3 million were deported. Not only was there little or no media hysteria about Obama’s reliance on ICE, but it was actually hailed. CNN, which now runs antiICE stories almost 24/7, not only supported ICE, but had star reporter Pamela Brown accompany ICE agents on raids as they broke into homes in a sanctuary city in the dark of night to apprehend undocumented immigrants.

Itions in Minneapolis is a major step in that direction. Administration officials like Stephen Miller setting arbitrary quotas of apprehensions makes no sense and is inevitably counterproductive.

CE remains an essential component, but raids no longer need to be as extensive.

In dealing with Minneapolis, however, it must be noted that almost no other city or state where ICE is operating has seen these kinds of disturbances, primarily because other elected leaders, and local and state law enforcement, cooperate with ICE. At a minimum, that means keeping demonstrators from getting in the faces of ICE agents or interfering with their operations.

will be accepted and implemented. But I would strongly oppose any requirement that ICE agents remove their masks. Despite the hysterics of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and others who shamelessly label ICE agents “Nazis” and “Gestapo,” wearing masks has become absolutely essential for them. There are well-organized, systematic efforts to identify and “dox” ICE agents and their families. In cases of their alleged improper actions, they can be identified for investigation by numbers on their uniforms.

While ICE remains an essential component of immigration enforcement, raids no longer need to be as extensive. President Trump’s strict border-enforcement policies have brought illegal immigration to the lowest levels in decades. It is virtually nonexistent.

While the law must be enforced, however, there is always room for reasonable discretion. There is no longer the need for dragnet-style raids. The time has come for a more surgical strategy, focusing almost entirely on criminal elements. Trump’s designation of border czar Tom Homan to oversee ICE opera-

Also, Minnesota, and Minneapolis, must agree to honor ICE detainers and turn over undocumented criminals in their prisons and jails before their release. This minimizes the possibility of fatal interactions. (It is slanderous and irresponsible for officials and critics to describe ICE agents as “murderers.” While investigations are ongoing, the reasonable interpretation of the multitude of videos we’ve all seen is that, at worst, there were heat-of-themoment reactions to unexpected incidents.)

Various “reforms” of ICE are being suggested, and I’m sure a number of them, such as the use of body cameras,

Now that the border is secure and the crisis is past, our elected officials should make reasonable immigration reforms. Those who are undocumented, but were brought to our country as children and have lived here for a specified period of time without incident, should be given a path to citizenship. There should be no attempts to track down undocumented people who are living here without bothering anyone. They should be urged to register and, after a certain period, be allowed to apply for residency.

It is to everyone’s benefit, and society’s gain, for people to be brought out from the shadows. With proper leadership and cooperation, we could be approaching a reasoned resolution of this divisive crisis.

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

Keep driverless cars off Long Island roads

Gov. Kathy Hochul recently announced that the state plans to test driverless forhire cars outside New York City. I’m a Long Island resident, and the idea of robot cars on our streets is scary. As a transportation professional with over 25 years of experience on the roadways of our communities, I know how extraordinarily unsafe a plan like this would make us.

On Long Island, our cars are how life happens. Parents, kids, commuters and seniors are on the road every day, often navigating heavy traffic, construction and unpredictable weather. Spend five minutes on the Long Island Expressway at

rush hour, or near a busy school zone at the beginning or end of a school day, and it becomes clear why safety cannot be left to unproven technology.

And let’s be honest about what’s really going on here. The goal for these tech companies is New York City. Testing driverless cars just outside the city line is a sneaky way to move closer to that goal without facing the complexity, scrutiny and opposition that would come with starting in the city itself. In the meantime, Long Island is expected to carry the risks as the testing ground.

of the country. When you complicate that track record with a February snowstorm or a rainy evening rush hour here, the risks become obvious.

T he safety of so many drivers cannot be left to unproven technology.

Safety is where this proposal really starts to fall apart. Driverless cars have already stalled in traffic, blocked emergency vehicles, sped past school buses loading children and failed to handle basic roadway situations in other parts

And these risks aren’t just on paper — driverless cars are already hurting people. Reuters reported three weeks ago that a Waymo self-driving car hit a child during morning school drop-off near an elementary school in California. Federal regulators were investigating the incident, which raised serious questions about whether this technology can safely operate around children, parents and busy school zones. It should give every Long Island family pause.

The pressure behind the proposal to deploy more driverless cars is coming from powerful technology companies and executives like Elon Musk, who are focused on expanding their platforms

and opening new markets. Their priorities are driven by growth and investors’ demands, not by the realities of Long Island roads or the safety concerns of the families who live here.

Long Islanders tend to be practical. We care about safety, accountability and systems that work. Decisions that affect our roads and neighborhoods should reflect those values, not treat our communities as a steppingstone to somewhere else.

Governor Hochul should listen to the people who live and work here and understand these roads firsthand. Long Island should not be asked to bear unfair risks so that technology companies can inch closer to New York City. Transportation policy should put safety first. For Long Island, that means protecting our roads, our workers and the people who rely on them every day. We’re nobody’s guinea pigs.

Tom Gouldsbury is president of the Long Island Limousine Association.

Black History is Long Island history

every February, Black History Month arrives with familiar names and stories. We rightly honor the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman and other giants whose courage reshaped the nation. Their legacies deserve remembrance.

But for many people on Long Island, those stories might feel distant — heroic, yes, but abstract, having unfolded somewhere else, in another place at another time.

What often goes missing is the understanding that Black history did not only happen on the National Mall or in Southern courtrooms. It happened here. It happened in the neighborhoods we walk every day, in the schools our children attend, in churches tucked onto residential blocks, and in town halls where decisions quietly shaped who could live where, who could teach, who could lead and who could serve.

On Long Island, Black residents confronted segregated housing patterns long after the law said discrimination was over. Veterans returned home from fighting for democracy abroad only to find out that it did not fully extend to them in their own communities. Black educators pushed open doors in school districts where they were once excluded from classrooms except as students. Black churches became organizing centers, social safety nets and sources of political power when other institutions shut their doors.

King spoke at Rockville Centre’s South Side Junior High School — now

South Side Middle School — on March 26, 1968, just nine days before he was assassinated in Memphis. In his remarks, he spoke of poverty and injustice, and urged unity. People like Roslyn’s Hazel Dukes, who served as president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People from 1990 to 1992, made it their life’s work to combat pervasive housing discrimination in many of our communities.

These are not footnotes to history. They are history.

Local athletes who broke color barriers on high school fields, teachers who became the first Black faces in faculty rooms, small-business owners who built livelihoods despite limited access to credit, and community leaders who advocated for basic services all helped shape what our communities look like today. Their contributions did not always come with applause or recognition. Many are remembered only by those who lived through the changes, if they are remembered at all.

That absence matters. When history is presented only as something that happened “somewhere else,” it becomes easier to disconnect from it. It becomes symbolic rather than instructive.

But when Black history is grounded in familiar places — the elementary school you attended, the block where you grew up, the library or park you pass without a second thought — it becomes harder to ignore and easier to understand.

It also forces uncomfortable but necessary questions. Why do some figures

receive plaques and street names while others fade from memory? Why are certain struggles celebrated as defining moments, while local battles for fairness are overlooked? And what does it say about us if we fail to acknowledge the people who made our own communities more just, more open and more representative?

Black History Month should be an invitation to look closer, not just farther away. It should prompt school districts to examine whose stories are included in local curriculums. It should challenge libraries, historical societies and news organizations to document and elevate the experiences of Black residents who helped build these communities. It should encourage towns, villages and neighborhoods to ask whether public recognition truly reflects their full history.

This is not about diminishing national heroes. It is about completing the picture. National change is always the sum of local actions, people showing up to meetings, organizing neighbors, mentoring students, opening businesses and insisting on dignity in places where they were told to wait their turn.

For Black history to matter, it cannot live only in textbooks or documentaries. It must live where people live.

On Long Island, Black history did not unfold at a distance. It unfolded on our blocks, in our schools and in our town halls. Remembering that truth honors the past, helps us understand the present and reminds us that the next chapter of history is still being written, right here.

Thirty days of the good, the bad and the ugly

The year 2025 was a dizzying one for all Americans. So many things happened in Washington that it would take about 50 pages of the Herald to walk readers through every one. Rather than take on that project, I prefer to write about January, and how we were impacted by the news of the month. I declare January the month of the good, the bad and the ugly.

Of the good things that happened, I’ll focus on the Cinderella story of Indiana University football quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Every time I think about him and his accomplishments, I can’t help but smile. If you love an example of perfection, Mendoza is exactly that. It starts with his decision to enroll at Indiana, which was roundly criticized by all of his supporters. Why would you go to a school that has never won a national championship? But Mendoza defied the taunts and joined that muchmaligned Hoosiers team.

Then, with smarts and determination, he guided the team to a 16-0 season and a national championship. He won the coveted Heisman Trophy and charmed all of America with his mature and impressive interviews. His displays of love for his wheelchair-bound mother were touching and memorable.

So the Mendoza story tops the good. The decision to send thousands of ICE and border-patrol agents to Minneapolis definitely tops January’s bad news.

Fcrowds of protesters. The 600 members of the Minneapolis police force, who handled the George Floyd demonstrations, were the best people to deal with such a crisis, but they were bypassed.

rom Fernando Mendoza to Alex Pretti to federal buildings in Philadelphia.

The Trump administration’s actions were poorly handled by Kristi Noem, the secretary of homeland security. Her instant labeling of Alex Pretti, the second Minnesotan shot by ICE agents, as a “domestic terrorist” was a reckless reaction to the death of a U.S. citizen with no criminal record.

The idea of drowning a major American city with thousands of law enforcement agents never made sense to begin with. Ask any respected police official about how the situation in Minneapolis was handled and he or she will tell you that the vast majority of the officers sent there were not trained to handle

The White House staff, headed by close Trump adviser Stephen Miller, bungled every stage of the Pretti shooting, and poured more gasoline on the fire by labeling him an “assassin.” Miller and Noem were the wrong people to juggle a political crisis, and every step they took proved it. President Trump, who ordered the mass invasion into Minneapolis, was eventually forced to say he wanted to “de-escalate” the situation, but he’s stuck with the optics of a horrible event.

There are so many things I could classify as ugly, but one stands out, because it has largely escaped public attention. A few weeks ago, a group of federal employees in Philadelphia were captured on local television removing historical materials relating to the history of slavery. This on top of media reports that the administration is taking a number of measures to eliminate

any references to slavery in numerous federal facilities.

The attempts to erase this sad chapter of American history are part of the run-up to the July Fourth observation of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Apparently, some people in the White House have decided that we must reflect only on the happy things that have happened during the past 250 years, but slavery is part of our history, and it can’t be wiped away. There are people who promote the idea that the Holocaust never happened, which is why we observe International Holocaust Remembrance Day each year.

It’s hard to predict what the next 11 months are going to be like in our nation’s capital. There’s new evidence every day of our bitter partisan divide. The president’s postings on social media are often inflammatory. The tone that dominates the daily news is depressing. I wish there were a little more happy talk in our political world, but that, as Shakespeare said, is devoutly to be wished.

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