Also serving Farmingdale, Massapequa, Massapequa Park and Plainedge
Learning about kindness Page 3
Gangs of young bikers have caused havoc in downtown areas like Massapequa Park Village where Village and school officials are working to stem the tide of these dangerous incidents.
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
Village and school officials are warning parents about groups of young bicyclists whose behavior has endangered themselves, drivers, and pedestrians.
Mayor Dan Pearl sent a letter to village families, and Massapequa Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Brennan addressed school district families, urging parents to help curb unsafe riding habits.
Pearl said the incidents, reported along Front Street and Park Boulevard, include weaving into traffic, obstructing vehicles, harassing pedestrians, and “creating an environment of fear for both residents and businesses.”
“These actions are not only reckless, but they also violate local law,” Pearl wrote, citing village code sections that require bicyclists to obey traffic rules and prohibit riding on sidewalks in the business district. Parents of minors can face fines ranging from $100 for a first violation to $500 for repeated offenses.
Pearl called on parents to speak urgently with their children about safety. “We cannot wait until tragedy strikes,” he wrote. “The
safety of our children, residents, and local businesses depends on immediate corrective action.”
Brennan echoed the mayor, emphasizing parental responsibility. “Recent incidents in the village and surrounding Massapequa neighborhoods have raised serious concerns,” he wrote. “The most powerful influence comes from you, at home. I urge you to take time today to talk with your children about bicycle safety.”
Residents expressed frustration over the problem. Kerry Pleines Perez wrote on Facebook that a group of youngsters on bikes “ran into a store a few weeks ago and destroyed half the store. They get more brazen and disrespectful every day,” she said.
Linda Coffery added that parents should face fines if their children are caught riding recklessly.
Some residents said responsibility lies with parents rather than schools. “I think this is more of a parental responsibility,” said Donna White as she was having lunch with Samanthan Watkins on Front Street.
Watkins added, “The best thing is for the
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
New York State’s education commissioner ruled that the Massapequa School District can’t enforce its ban on transgender students using school restrooms and locker rooms aligned with their gender identity, not their birth identity. The issue continues to divide parents and residents and tempers once again flared at the Oct. 9 meeting as more than 200 people heard Board President Kerry Wachter defend the new policy requiring students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their biological sex at birth. Wachter said the policy is not discriminatory and is designed to protect privacy and safety.
“It is common sense, it is law, and it is fair,” Wachter said. “We take the harder road because we believe in doing what is right for this community and its children, and yes, that sometimes means going to court.”
Wachter cited past board decisions, including mask and mascot controversies, and said the board expects to be proven right on this issue as well. “We were vindicated on the masks, we believe we will be vindicated on the mascot and I believe we will be vindicated on this as well,” she said. “We are standing on the right side of the law and the right side of what’s best for our kids.”
Her comments received the
largest applause of the night. It was apparent from the reaction of the audience to the speakers who supported the school’s policy that most attending the meeting supported it as well. However, a significant minority opposed it while at times tempers flared and some speakers were interrupted. But board members kept the meeting on track. Only residents of the Massapequa School District were allowed to speak.
Supporters included Christy Chipina, a mother of four, who urged parents to protect children’s privacy and legal rights adding that she believes students can be “transitioned” without their parents’ knowledge.
Patricia Foley, a 1998 Massapequa High graduate said federal law supersedes state law, while to current female students said they would feel uncomfortable sharing facilities with biological males. Opponents included Democratic Oyster Bay Town Board candidate Dan Smith, 2015 Massapequa High graduate Erin Curley, and Jericho High School coPrincipal Joe Prisinzano. Curley argued the policy endangered students’ safety and mental health, while Prisinzano highlighted risks faced by transgender youth, including suicidal thoughts. Two transgender speakers also said the policy threatens safety and well-being for transgender and
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non-binary students.
In other business:
• Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Brennan gave a summary of “A Day in the Life” River Study at the Massapequa Preserve involving nearly 50 advanced placement environmental science research students and reported on the recent successes of the district’s Challenger Athletics Program.
• Brendan Nelson, a partner in the R.S. Abrams & Co. Accounting firm, presented a summary of its annual audit of district finances, concluding that the district finances showed no deficiencies or weaknesses.
• Massapequa students James Benjamin and Tatum Brennan awere appointed by the school board as ex officio members of the Board of Education for the 2025-6 School Year. James and Tatum will attend board meetings to provide updates on student accomplishments and activities at Mass-
CONTINUED FROM COVER school district to prohibit bikes,” while acknowledging parental enforcement is key.
Local business owners also voiced concerns. Eric Kaczmarski, owner of Village Wine and Spirits, said, “I often see them riding recklessly in the middle of the road, and some don’t even have helmets on. Many customers are concerned about this issue.”
Brennan said the district is working with families, the village, and law enforcement to prevent accidents. “By staying involved and reinforcing responsible decision-making, we can keep bike
riding the fun, safe experience it should be,” he said.
Some communities have addressed the problem by authorizing code enforcement officers to confiscate bikes of riders breaking the law, returning them only to parents who may face fines. Others argue that due to the volatility of incidents, the county police should handle such cases.
Residents who witness unsafe or illegal bicycling are encouraged to contact Nassau County Police’s 7th Precinct at (516) 573-6700. —Carolyn James contributed to this story.
Under a new policy in Massapequa Schools—which is being
challenged—bathrooms and locker rooms in the district will be restricted to students according to their biological sex.
apequa High School but will not vote or attend executive sessions of the board.
• The board accepted a donation of a bench valued at $549 from the Angelillo family in memory of their daughter Emma Angelillo. The bench will be placed by the
Lockhart playgrounds.
The next Meeting of the Massapequa Board of Education will be held Thursday, Nov. 13, 8 p.m., in the board room at Massapequa High School.
As winter approaches, many Long Island families are bracing for higher heating bills — a growing concern as energy costs remain unpredictable. For many, saving on heat isn’t just about comfort or convenience; it’s about protecting household budgets during months
Cooking
Every time you open the oven door, heat escapes and energy is wasted. Try to rely on the oven window and interior light instead of “peeking.”
Microwaves are another great alternative — they use up to 80 percent less electricity than conventional ovens and cook food faster. Slow cookers, air fryers, and toaster ovens can also be energy-efficient options for smaller meals.
2
Refrigerators and Freezers
Refrigerators and freezers are among the biggest energy users in the home, running 24 hours a day. When replacing old models, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. These appliances are about 20 percent more efficient than new conventional units and up to 40 percent better than older
when utility expenses can climb sharply. Experts say now is the time to prepare. When homeowners make small changes before the cold really sets in, they can see real savings throughout the season, said energy experts. Before sharing your money or personal in-
models sold before 2001.
Keeping the refrigerator full — but not overcrowded — helps regulate temperature efficiently. Check that seals around the doors are tight and clean coils regularly to prevent overworking the compressor.
3
Laundry
Hang-drying clothes, even part-time, can significantly cut energy use. If using a dryer, clean the lint filter after every load to maintain efficiency. About 90 percent of a washing machine’s energy goes toward heating water, so using cold water for most loads can save substantially. Today’s detergents are formulated to clean well in cold cycles, making hot water necessary only for heavily soiled items.
4
Hot Water Savings
formation, talk to someone you trust, such as a family member or friend. Scammers often pressure you to act quickly—sometimes with threats. Slow down, verify the story, search online or consult an expert.
Five things to know:
Water heaters are typically the second-largest energy users in a household, right behind heating systems. Fix leaky faucets promptly — a small drip can waste a bathtub’s worth of hot water each month.
Setting the heater temperature to 120 degrees is sufficient for most homes and prevents scalding. If the water heater feels warm to the touch, consider wrapping it in an insulation blanket. Homes with older tanks may also benefit from insulating hot water pipes to reduce standby heat loss.
5
Roof and Insulation
A well-insulated roof is critical for keeping heat inside. According to Instant Roofer, homeowners should watch for “ice dams”
— ridges of ice that form along roof edges, often caused by escaping heat that melts snow unevenly. A well-insulated roof is critical for keeping heat inside. According to Instant Roofer, homeowners should watch for “ice dams” — ridges of ice that form along roof edges, often caused by escaping heat that melts snow unevenly.
Ensure attic access doors are sealed with weatherstripping and that insulation levels meet or exceed building code recommendations. Adding or upgrading attic insulation can reduce heat loss by as much as 25 percent.
Source: PSEG Long Island (psegliny. com) and Instant Roofer (instantroofer. com).
Two books that serve as characterbuilding inspiration at Birch Lane Elementary School in the Massapequa School District recently came to life as songs. Lee Knight brought her interactive program to the school during a pair of assemblies on Sept. 18, featuring song, dance and play.
“Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud has been in Birch Lane classrooms for years to support the character education program. Students are encouraged to fill each other’s buckets through acts of compassion and kindness.
This year, “One” by Kathryn Otoshi was also provided to every teacher. The book teaches acceptance and the importance of being an upstander, while also reinforcing knowledge of numbers, counting, and primary and secondary colors.
Knight’s “Books Alive” presentation, sponsored by the PTA’s Cultural Arts Committee, featured original songs based on the two books. Several students were invited to the front of the all-purpose room to help out with skits and lead their classmates in singing and dancing. Children left the lively performances energized and ready to spread kindness every day at Birch Lane and beyond.
Nassau County Police charged a West Babylon man with Driving While Intoxicated with a child in his car. Police gave this account: Freeport Village Police Officers initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of South Ocean Avenue and West Sunrise Highway Tuesday night, Oct. 14, after they saw a passenger throw a bottle
out the car window. Police stopped the vehicle and after an investigation determined that the driver, Anthony Furtado, 60, was drunk behind the wheel. In addition, a 4-year-old girl was in the backseat. Police released the youngster to a family member and placed Furtado under arrest. The case against him is pending.
The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units.
PETIT LARCENY
South Farmingdale: A representative of Walgreens at 918 Main Street, called police to report that an unknown male walked into the store, removed an assortment of items from the shelves and left the location without paying for
them. That incident occurred Oct. 19, at approximately 12:30 p.m.
•A similar incident occurred Oct. 14, shortly after 1 p.m. In that incident police arrested Melanie Lloyd, 48, of Hempstead and charged her with shoplifting. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
Massapequa: Someone damaged a mailbox at 48 Stone Blvd., Oct. 14. The damage was reported to police shortly before 8 p.m.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
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Residential Program: Beacon House
Short-term, long-term and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and non-veterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.
Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation
•Maryhaven Center of Hope-New Hope 24hr. substance abuse crisis center: 516-5467070; maryhaven.chsli.org/new-hope
•N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516-227-8255
•LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111
•24/7 Behavioral health helpline: 516-2278255, namiqn.org/crisis-info
•AA Meetings Nassau County: For More Information on meetings and times call 866504-6974 or go to findrecovery.com/aa_meetings/ny/nassau-county/ Domestic Violence
N.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Crisis services for victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault; group/individual counseling for adults and children; bilingual court advocacy; legal consultation and representation; safe emergency housing; elder abuse services; referrals and systems advocacy; community education. Eligibility criteria: Nassau County residents or nonresidents seeking safe housing in Nassau. Will serve undocumented immigrants. Payments accepted free or on sliding scale. Address is 250 Fulton Avenue, Mezzanine West, Hempstead. Call 516-572-0700; 24-hour hotline is 516 542-0404.
■ WEB SITE: www.massapequapost.com
As advocates for each other’s success, Massapequa High School seniors Kathleen Cooney and Meghan Walsh are seeing the results of their hard work and mutual encouragement. They were recently named the top-ranked graduates for the Class of 2026.
Kathleen, the valedictorian with a 101.104 grade point average, attended Birch Lane Elementary School. She has taken 13 Advanced Placement courses and particularly enjoyed her science and history classes. As a sophomore, she started the Wellness Club, and is also a member of the Spanish Club, field hockey and flag football teams, and National, Art and Spanish honor societies. Kathleen works as a lifeguard in the summers, gives swimming lessons, has volunteered at the Massapequa Fire Department’s blood drive, and tutors high school students in geometry and middle school students in math.
Meghan is the salutatorian with a 100.935 GPA. The Fairfield Elementary School graduate has enrolled in 12 Advanced Placement courses, with math and French being her favorite subjects. Meghan also took College Art of Baking and College Creative Food Preparation classes, and now uses the skills she learned to make customized cakes. She is president of the French Club, Key Club and Mathletes, a member of Chiefs Challenge and Students Against Destructive Decisions, and was inducted into the National and French honor societies. Out-
side of school, she coaches gymnastics.
Sitting in her anatomy class, Kathleen was called down to the guidance office and brought to Principal Barbara Lowell’s office. With her parents on the phone, she learned that she earned the top rank in her class. Meghan was in her college psychology class when she got the call to come down for the good news.
After high school, Kathleen wants to enroll in a physician assistant program in which she would earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees within seven years. She aspires to be a physician’s assistant in a maternity unit. Meghan plans to double major in both mathematics and French, and wants to pursue a career as a mathematician. She hopes to live for at least a few years in France, a country she is planning to visit next summer.
Valedictorian and salutatorian are among the many accolades they have earned. Both students are AP Scholars with Distinction and have been consistently named to the Principal’s Honor Roll. Kathleen is a scholar athlete, was selected to the High School National Academic Squad and will earn an AP Capstone Diploma. Meghan received the College Board National School Recognition Award and was a silver medalist in the Le Grand Concours National French Exam, placing 15th overall in the nation among Level 4 students.
Kathleen and Meghan are grateful for the many opportunities offered at Massapequa High School from rigorous cours-
Valedictorian Kathleen Cooney, left, and salutatorian
graduates in Massapequa High School’s Class of 2026.
es to a wide variety of clubs and sports. They also credit their teachers who have been very supportive and go above and beyond to help their students.
“Kathleen and Meghan are the epitome of Massapequa High School students,” Lowell said. “They embody the five competencies of a Massapequa learner and leader. Excelling in the classroom and in
extracurriculars, these two young women have made the most out of what Massapequa High School has to offer. Their perseverance in their studies, dedication to our school and commitment to our community make us very proud. We congratulate them and wish them only the best as the embark on the next chapter of their journey.”
EAST MEADOW Senior FIELD HOCKEY
PICKING UP WHERE she left off last fall when she earned All-County honors, Ventura has reached new heights while leading the Jets to a 10-2 start in Nassau Conference II field hockey. Through Oct. 16, the Adelphi University bound standout was leading the county in goals with 20 to go along with 8 assists. She began 2025 with a bang, scoring all three of East Meadow’s goals in a win over New Hyde Park. Ventura has more than 50 career goals.
Friday, Oct. 24
Football: Seaford at Island Trees
Football: Farmingdale at Port Washington
Football: Freeport at Oceanside 6 p.m.
Football: Sewanhaka at Division 6 p.m.
Football: Hempstead at Plainview
Football: Hewlett at Manhasset
Football:
Football: East Meadow at Glen Cove
Football: Plainedge at Malverne
Saturday, Oct. 25
Football: South Side at V.S. South 11 a.m.
Football: Wantagh at Carey
Football: Clarke at Floral Park
Football: V.S. North at Elmont 1 p.m.
Football: Garden City at Calhoun 2 p.m.
Football: Baldwin at Mepham 2 p.m.
Football: New Hyde Park at Kennedy 2 p.m.
Football: Roslyn at V.S. Central 2 p.m.
Football: Lynbrook at C.S. Harbor 2 p.m.
Football: East Rockaway at Locust Valley 2 p.m.
Football: West Hempstead at North Shore 2 p.m.
Football: Lawrence at Oyster Bay 2 p.m.
Football: Syosset at Massapequa 3 p.m.
Football: Herricks at Uniondale
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com
Luke Garguilo placed his stamp on the latest edition of one of Long Island’s greatest rivalries, guiding Massapequa to a comprehensive 28-3 victory over host Farmingdale in a battle of unbeaten Nassau Conference I squads last Saturday.
The junior quarterback had 10 carries for 114 yards and a pair of touchdowns and completed 6-of-8 passes for 105 yards to help the Chiefs win at Don Snyder Stadium.
The victory gives the two-time defending Long Island Class I champions an inside track on the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Nassau Conference I playoffs.
And Garguilo did it on the same field where his father, Rich, was the quarterback for the Dalers in the early 1990s.
“It always feels good to get a win, especially against Farmingdale. But it’s just another game, on to the next one,” Garguilo said. “I know [my father] was happy for us to get the win even against his old team.”
The game was a rematch of an epic Nassau Conference I championship game last November, won in overtime by Massapequa on a trick play.
Last Saturday, Massapequa didn’t need any trickery in a dominant performance in all three phases. “It was a great team win,” Chiefs head coach Kevin Shippos said.
Offensively, the Chiefs were balanced, with Andrew Pedalino also rushing for two touchdowns. Tyler Byrnes pulled down a clutch 33-yard reception that set up the second of Pedalino’s touchdowns to send Massapequa into halftime with a 21-3 lead.
The 6-foot-4 senior wide receiver was also pivotal with his blocking on the edge.
Led by Nolan Wieczorek and Cole Villalta, the Massapequa defense kept Farmingdale running back Josh Kama in check. The senior rushed for 1,164 yards and 18 touchdowns in his first five games, averaging 232 yards per game.
But on Saturday, Massapequa rallied to the ball and limited Kama, who left a Week 5 win over Hempstead with an injury in
the first quarter, to 101 yards on 17 carries.
“The defense stepped up big time, limited explosive plays, and stopped their running backs before they could get going,” Shippos said. “We played very physically today.”
Aided by a Pedalino 47-yard run, Garguilo followed an Anthony DiNello block to cap his team’s opening drive with a 6-yard touchdown run that gave Massapequa a 7-0 lead with three minutes left in the first quarter.
JJ Damo responded with a 25-yard field goal to cut the Dalers’ deficit to 7-3 with 5:52 left in the first half.
Thanks to a huge Wieczorek block, Ped-
alino went untouched for a 3-yard touchdown run to extend the lead and added a 1-yard rushing score before halftime.
Garguilo closed out the impressive victory with a 26-yard touchdown with 7:45 left in the fourth quarter.
“Luke continues to get better and that’s all you can ask of a player,” Shippos said. “He’s showing all the tools of an elite quarterback.”
Farmingdale leads the all-time series 37-25-2, but Massapequa won its fourth consecutive game in a rivalry that dates back to 1975 and left Don Snyder Stadium as the favorite to win a third consecutive county title.
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Scan the QR code to submit your photo today for a chance to win a pair of New York Islanders tickets to a game this season and be featured in your Long Island Herald.
Contest Ends 11/20/25
Nearly 50 Massapequa High School students turned a local park into their classroom as they studied the stream at the Massapequa Preserve on Oct. 3. The observations were part of a long-term data collection in partnership with renowned science research facilities.
Junior and seniors from the high school’s Advanced Placement Environmental Science class took part in “A Day in the Life” river study program. Along with their teacher Thomas Dempsey and scientists from Brookhaven National Laboratory and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 13 students stepped into the stream to gather water samples.
Outfitted in large boots and wading gear, they floated bottles downstream, recording time and distance to determine river flow. Students analyzed pH and dissolved oxygen levels, and did chemical testing for nutrients such as nitrate and phosphate. The young scientists also studied fish species and macro invertebrates, which are an indicator of water quality.
Massapequa is one of several schools collecting data in streams and rivers across Long Island from early September through mid-October. The school has been gathering data on the Massapequa Preserve stream every fall for more than a decade. The information is uploaded to a database that all par-
ticipating schools can access. Dempsey said his environmental science students will be immersed in a water quality unit later this year, making comparisons among multiple bodies of water and also reviewing year-over-year changes at their local stream.
From the Ames Campus, 35 ninth graders in the science research program were at the preserve collecting data for a DNA project in partnership with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. They were assisted by teachers August Eberling and Nicole Gonzalez.
Students collected samples of macro invertebrates, and will extract DNA to figure out the exact species. That work will be done during a trip to Cold Spring Harbor in October, followed by a visit in February for bioinformatics and DNA analysis. In June, the ninth graders will present their findings at a symposium.
Eberling said that Ames students have been participating in the Massapequa Preserve DNA study for several years, collecting data that allows them to observe long-term changes to the stream. It gives them real-world field experience as well as an opportunity to work with practicing scientists in a professional setting. The skills they develop and connections they make benefit them for their independent science research projects in ninth grade and beyond.
Oyster Bay Town officials will, once again, partner with the Massapequa Farmingdale Men’s Club to host a Peanut Butter Collection Drive to help replenish local food pantries. Beginning October 1, residents are invited to donate new, unopened and sealed peanut butter to help support local families in need. Dropoff containers are located at Town Halls North and South, as well as at the Town Ice Skating Center. Alternative butters, including sun butters, almond butters and cookie butters, as well as jelly, are also accepted.
“We are proud to once again partner with this great organization to help ‘spread the love’ and stock local food pantry shelves with this very popular product,” said Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Peanut butter is among the most highly requested food items at local food banks as it has a long shelf life, provides many nutrients and doesn’t require refrigeration. We thank the Massapequa Farmingdale Men’s Club for again putting our local communities first with this wonderful initiative.”
The Massapequa Farmingdale Men’s Club mission is to provide and encourage involvement in education, charitable and social programs for the men of local communities, and to support the local and wider community with activities and contributions.
“The Massapequa-Farmingdale Men’s
Club has been assisting members of local communities and foodbanks for several years, and we’re thrilled to partner with them on such initiatives,” said Councilman Hand.
The Peanut Butter Collection Drive will run through November 15. Drop off bins are located during regular business hours at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay; Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa and the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center at1001 Stewart Ave, Bethpage.
“Our organization works tirelessly to help the local and greater community, and we wouldn’t have the success we have without great partners in government like the Town of Oyster Bay,” said Tom Sabellico, president and founder of the Men’s Club. “This very popular food drive is appreciated by many food banks, who have expressed they particularly like peanut butter thanks to it being easy to use, it keeps a long time, provides a variety of nutrients, is high in protection and is enjoyed by all age groups.”
For more information about the Massapequa Farmingdale Men’s Club and their mission, visit www.massapequafarmingdalemensclub.com. For more information about the Peanut Butter Collection Drive and other Town programs, visit the Town’s website at www. oysterbaytown.com or call (516) 624-6380.
The Massapequa Historical Society will be presenting Music Bingo on Nov. 6 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Grace Church auditorium.
The cost is $25 per person. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to bring your own food and/ or beverages.
To reserve seats, please call Valerie at (516) 633-5024 or Gail at (516) 8042363. For more information, visit massapequahistoricalsociety.org or email pequahistory@gmail.com
Grace Church is located at 23 Cedar Shore Drive Suite 4A, Massapequa.
The Oyster Bay Town Board is partnering with Massapequa-based “Big Hy for Heroes” to collect DVDs for those deployed and serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces as well as movies for children’s hospitals. Donations will be accepted during the month of October and then delivered to Chaplains, Commanding Officers, Sergeant Majors and Sergeants around the globe to distribute to troops and arrange movie nights this holiday season.
“The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with Big Hy for Heroes for our Annual DVD Collection Drive and send thousands of DVDs to troops serving around the globe as well as to children receiving care in local hospitals,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We are asking everyone to help support these brave men, women and children by donating DVDs.”
The Big Hy for Heroes organization was founded in 2002 by Massapequa resident and WWII veteran Hyman Strachman who, along with his son Arthur Strachman, personally began sending DVDs to U.S. troops overseas. Over the years, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs all around the world and continues to do so today.
Exciting, suspenseful, comedy and classic DVDs are among the most requested by the troops for movie nights. Children’s movies are needed for local hospitals. Residents can donate DVDs at these two locations from Oct. 1-31: Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa
For more information on the DVD Collection Drive for U.S. Troops and local children’s hospitals, please call 516 624-6380.
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Nicole Aloise, a Democrat running for Nassau County district attorney, is focusing her campaigning on public safety, community investment, and experience forged in courtrooms.
“I firmly believe in the job of a prosecutor,” she said. “It’s all I’ve done in my career.”
Aloise, 41, has worked as a prosecutor for 16 years in both Nassau and Queens, most recently as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her legal career in 2008 after graduating from St. John’s University School of Law. While in Queens, she secured more than 20 violent felony convictions and helped establish case law by making use of NYPD body camera footage for the first time in a trial in New York City.
Aloise moved with her family from Astoria to Garden City in 2019. From 2019 to 2023, she prosecuted homicides and violent felonies as senior litigation counsel in the Nassau D.A.’s office. She returned to Queens for a brief period before stepping down in 2024 to launch her campaign.
Despite its staff of hundreds, one of the largest D.A.’s offices in the country, it has fallen behind, Aloise said. “The office now being run,” she said, “is not appropriate for a 2025 D.A.’s office.”
She criticized what she called a lack of courtroom experience in the office’s current leadership, and said that has led to high staff turnover. The issues that are central to her platform include strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau, especially when it comes to antisemitic and anti-Asian attacks; sup-
porting a statewide “death by dealer” law to hold drug suppliers accountable in fatal overdoses; and increasing funding for youth, mental health and violence prevention programs.
Aloise has also pledged to pursue tougher prosecutions in drunken-driving cases, and expanding cooperation
‘It’s been my life’s work,’
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
For Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, pursuing justice and supporting crime victims isn’t just a job — it’s a passion.
“It’s been my life’s work,” she said. “I have worked in every bureau in the office. I have been a boss, a supervisor, and I’m very passionate about what we do.”
Donnelly, 61, a Republican and a longtime prosecutor, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become district attorney — the fourth consecutive woman to hold the office. A Garden City resident who graduated from Fordham Law School in 1989, she is seeking a second term on a platform of public safety, gang enforcement and law enforcement support.
Since taking office in 2022, Donnelly has created three county law enforcement units. The Firearms Suppression and Intelligence Unit, focuses on illegal gun sales and weapons trafficking. “We’ve had an uptick of guns being taken off the street, and I wanted to know why,” she said. The Pharmaceutical Diversion and Cybercrimes Unit targets opioid diversion by medical professionals and prosecutes cybercrimes, including dark web activity. The Hate
with local police departments. “I’ve got the best experience to be in this job,” she said, “because I won’t be asking anybody to do something I myself personally haven’t done, and I will know what resources and guidelines to put into place to make sure they’re successful.”
Like the Republican incumbent, Anne Donnelly, Aloise has criticized New York’s 2020 discovery and bail reform laws. “It absolutely makes our job harder,” she said. “I’ve been outspoken about these laws since prior to their inception.”
But, she noted, she successfully worked under the same rules in Queens, and argued that the county badly needs an upgraded functioning discovery system. “They have one in Queens,” she added. “They have one in Suffolk.”
“I won’t run a stagnant office,” Aloise said. “I’ve got the passion, I’ve got the energy and I’ve got the vision to make the Nassau’s district attorney’s office one of the premier offices in the country — because we have the resources, if used correctly.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly is seeking a second term as the county’s top prosecutor.
Crimes Unit is tasked with investigating bias-motivated violence and boosting community outreach, training and reporting.
“There’s always going to be crime,” Donnelly said. “The important aspect of maintaining or keeping Nassau safe
is to target the crimes that we see increases in.” She has been an outspoken critic of New York state’s bail reform and Clean Slate laws, which she described “problematic,” and argued they allow repeat offenders back onto the streets.
She also raised concerns about the state’s discovery reform law, passed in 2020, which requires prosecutors to quickly share evidence with defense attorneys. Under the law, prosecutors originally had 20 to 35 days after a defendant’s arraignment, depending on pretrial custody, to provide all evidence — with a possible 30-day extension.
“It’s not like we’re trying to hide anything from them,” Donnelly said. “Getting all the information within the window is the challenge.” A 2025 amendment now allows cases to proceed if prosecutors show “good faith and due diligence” in providing evidence.
On the subject of the 2019 bail reform law, which eliminated cash bail for many non-violent offenses, she pointed to aggravated animal abuse and DWI as examples of “violent and dangerous” offenses that don’t meet the law’s definition of violence.
With nearly 250 attorneys and a staff of more than 450, the Nassau County district attorney’s office is one of the largest in the country. Donnelly said that her management experience stands in contrast to her challenger in next month’s election, Democrat Nicole Aloise. “She’s a very nice person, but has never managed one person,” Donnelly said. “I don’t think she’s the person for it. I think I am.”
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By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Katherine Fritz became the new regional president and CEO of the Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank, a Long Island Cares nonprofit that benefits people dealing with food insecurity, on Oct. 8.
Fritz has over 30 years of experience working for nonprofits. She joined LIC in 2019, just before the coronavirus pandemic began, which left many Long Islanders dealing with food insecurity.
“During that really crazy time period, I had to help the organization move forward quickly with fundraising and communicating with our donors about how money was being spent,” she said.
Fritz told the Herald that her leadership will prioritize patience, understanding and stability while pursuing the group’s goal of eliminate hunger on Long Island. “The mission of the organization is always going to be at the forefront of everything I do,” she said.
Crawford estimated that Fritz, as a fundraiser, managed to bring in $8 million for the organization in five years, which was “a testament to how hard she works, how she builds her team and stewards our donors,” Crawford said.
“After a nationwide search, the Board of Directors of Long Island Cares found its next leader down the hall from the boardroom,” board President David Herold stated in a news release. “She will lead us in meeting the ever-increasing need ahead, which is what the battle against the challenging climate surrounding food insecurity requires.
I think we are going to be able to help a lot more people
KIm CRAwfORD Marketing director, Long Island Cares
Before Fritz’s appointment, she was the organization’s vice president for development and communications. Her predecessor, Paule Pachter, retired earlier this year after serving for 17 years.
Marketing Director Kim Crawford has known Fritz from her beginnings at LIC. “She has a passion and a kindness that she is able to balance with her leadership, which is why she has such an incredible team now,” Crawford said. “I think we are going to be able to help a lot more people.”
“We believe that with her steady hand on the tiller, our mission will be advanced and the future of the people we serve will be brighter,” Herold added.
Fritz’s major goals include increased collaboration among more than 300 LIC food pantries, schools and community centers, supporting advocacy efforts and addressing the root causes of hunger — all while making LIC’s 2025-30 financial plans into realities.
“We’re in another critical time for food banking with the current government shutdown, in addition to the federal cuts that have already been enacted,” she said. “We need to focus on ensuring that we can provide appropriate food to the people in the community that are really needing assistance right now.”
Heading into the holiday season, LHC plans to provide healthy food for people of all cultural backgrounds and dietary restrictions in Long Island’s
diverse communities.
“There’s so many ways for people to help support their neighbors,” Fritz said.
To volunteer, donate or find food, visit LICares.org.
Candidate profiles, ballot Information and more inside! LOCAL ELECTIONS
Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is seeking a second term, emphasizing public safety, fiscal stability and preserving suburban character as the foundation of his administration. He said Nassau remains the safest large county in America, citing expanded law enforcement ranks, a stable budget and seven Wall Street bond-rating upgrades as evidence of sound fiscal management. Blakeman has repeatedly highlighted that county taxes have not increased during his tenure and that Nassau’s average home value has risen, which he sees as proof of prosperity and stability.
A central point of pride for Blakeman has been Nassau’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — the first of its kind in the country — which dedicates jail space and crosstrained detectives to assist federal agents. He said the agreement improves safety and has strong support among Hispanic residents who want “safe
neighborhoods and strong schools.” On crime prevention, Blakeman defended his creation of a volunteer emergency database, which critics have called a militia, describing it instead as a vetted roster of former police and military members who could be mobilized Blakeman continues to challenge the state’s takeover of Nassau University Medical Center, calling it “illegal” and harmful to residents who rely on it as a safetynet hospital. He contends the move is part of a broader state plan to reduce local control and diminish services. On housing, he opposes state-mandated density requirements, arguing that Nassau is already one of the nation’s most developed suburban counties and that zoning decisions should remain local.
Overall, Blakeman’s campaign message centers on fiscal prudence, public safety and protecting Nassau’s suburban quality of life.
Democratic Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow, of Merrick, is running for county executive on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal accountability and restoring public trust in local government.
A former Queens assistant district attorney and small business owner, Koslow said his decision to run was motivated by frustration over what he views as secrecy and mismanagement under the current administration. He cited ongoing problems at Nassau University Medical Center and the county jail as examples of a government unwilling to answer questions or plan for the future.
Seth Koslow Party: Democrat
waste and redirect resources toward infrastructure, housing and public services. He supports using county-owned properties for new mixed-use housing and simplifying the permit process for small businesses to boost local revenue without raising taxes. Koslow also said he would end Nassau’s cooperation agreement with federal immigration authorities, arguing it strains community relations and overextends county resources.
Koslow criticized County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a civilian militia, saying it undermines law enforcement and creates liability, and argued that Nassau’s shortage of detectives poses a more urgent safety threat. On fiscal issues, he said the county must better track its spending, cut
On social policy, he has rejected measures like the county’s bans on transgender athletes and public masking as divisive distractions from more pressing issues of affordability and public safety. His approach, he said, would emphasize collaboration with state and regional leaders, community input on major development projects such as the Nassau Hub, and long-term planning to keep future generations living and working on Long Island.
Elaine Phillips, the Republican Nassau County Comptroller, is seeking re-election on a platform centered on fiscal responsibility, government efficiency, and taxpayer protection. Since taking office in 2022, she has focused on modernizing Nassau County’s financial systems, strengthening oversight of county spending, and ensuring residents receive measurable value for their tax dollars.
payments owed to Nassau County, identified inefficiencies in procurement and contract management, and implemented updated auditing procedures to prevent waste and fraud. She has also emphasized modernization, leading efforts to digitize accounting systems.
A former New York State senator representing the 7th District, Phillips previously served as mayor of Flower Hill, where she managed local budgets and enacted cost-saving reforms. Before entering public office, she built a successful career in finance with senior roles at J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and MetLife, bringing private-sector expertise to government operations.
As comptroller, Phillips has prioritized accountability and transparency in county finances. Her office has recovered millions in outstanding
On the issues: Phillips has focused on strengthening fiscal stability, monitoring contract performance, and scrutinizing the county’s partnerships with major public entities such as the MTA. She has also overseen audits addressing delayed payments to small businesses and service providers, ensuring timely reimbursements and greater financial clarity. Phillips points to her background in both finance and local government as key to her pragmatic approach to fiscal management. She has emphasized longterm planning, responsible borrowing, and efficiency-driven reforms designed to safeguard public resources.
Wayne Wink, the Democratic candidate for Nassau County Comptroller, is running on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal integrity, and restoring independence to the county’s chief financial office. With more than two decades of public service, he brings extensive legislative and administrative experience to the race.
A resident of Roslyn, Wink began his career in local government on the North Hempstead Town Board, where he served from 2003 to 2007. He was later elected to the Nassau County Legislature, representing the 10th District from 2007 to 2014, which includes parts of Great Neck, East Hills, Roslyn, and Manhasset. During his tenure, he developed a reputation for fiscal diligence and constituent advocacy, focusing on responsible budgeting and government accountability.
In 2014, Wink was elected North Hempstead Town Clerk, a position he held until 2021. In that role, he oversaw
modernization of the town’s recordkeeping and licensing systems, implemented digital accessibility initiatives, and ensured compliance with open government and transparency laws. His administrative experience as clerk further solidified his focus on efficiency
On the issues: Wink has framed his campaign for comptroller around independence and transparency. He emphasizes the need for unbiased financial oversight, ensuring that county contracts, audits, and expenditures are handled with integrity and free from political influence. His platform includes expanding digital access to county financial data, improving internal controls, and strengthening collaboration with local municipalities to enhance fiscal efficiency. Wink holds a bachelor’s degree from Union College and a law degree from St. John’s University School of Law.
Maureen O’Connell, Nassau County Clerk since 2006, is seeking re-election to continue her work modernizing the office and expanding services for seniors and non-English-speaking residents. With over 30 years in public service, O’Connell brings experience as both a registered nurse and attorney, having previously served in the New York State Assembly and as Deputy Mayor of East Williston
On the issues:
state’s earliest Supreme Court e-filing systems and integrated digital connections with state and local agencies. She has also prioritized digitizing historical documents, making decades-old records more accessible for residents, particularly seniors who often need to retrieve property information.
During her nearly two decades as clerk, O’Connell has overseen a major transformation of the office’s operations. Under her leadership, millions of backlogged documents were processed, and the office transitioned to a fully digitized system for court and land records. This modernization has allowed residents and attorneys to file and access official documents online, reducing the need for in-person visits.
O’Connell implemented one of the
In an effort to protect homeowners, O’Connell launched a Property Fraud Alert Program, allowing property owners to receive email notifications if deeds or mortgages are filed in their name, helping to prevent fraud.
If re-elected, she plans to continue digitizing older records and expand parking at the Mineola office. She also intends to further adapt services for residents who speak languages other than English, building on the existing language line currently in place.
A lifelong Nassau County resident, O’Connell lives in East Williston and teaches nursing at SUNY Farmingdale.
Joylette E. Williams, a longtime educator and community leader, is running for Nassau County Clerk with a platform focused on modernization, accessibility, and administrative efficiency. A county resident since 1993, Williams has spent over two decades in public service and education, currently serving as a professor of English at Nassau Community College and a two-term member of the Hempstead School Board.
Williams holds a Ph.D. in English and is completing a second doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Connecticut. Her academic and professional background includes extensive experience in document management, recordkeeping, and organizational leadership—skills she says directly translate to the responsibilities of the clerk’s office.
Her public service includes prior roles as a Village of Hempstead trustee and current board member of the Town of
Hempstead Industrial Development Agency. Williams is also actively involved in civic organizations, including the NAACP, the Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, among others
On the issues: If elected, Williams plans to prioritize the digitization of county records, improve online access to public documents, and expand the use of the clerk’s mobile outreach van to underserved communities. She also proposes extending office hours one day a week to better serve working residents and increasing language accessibility for non-English-speaking residents.
Williams advocates for reducing or waiving fees on property transactions for groups such as seniors, veterans, first responders, and first-time homebuyers, citing Nassau’s fees as higher than neighboring counties.
Anne Donnelly, a Republican and prosecutor for over 30 years, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become Nassau County’s top prosecutor; becoming the fourth consecutive woman to do so.
Donnelly, 61, is campaigning on her record as a career prosecutor who has prioritized public safety, gang enforcement and support for law enforcement. She is a Garden City resident and took office in 2022.
On the issues:
To address gun violence and online drug trafficking, she created a Firearm Suppression Unit and a Cyber Crimes and Pharmaceutical Unit. Her office has also expanded education programs in schools and invested in hate crime prevention efforts.
Nicole Aloise, a Democrat and candidate for Nassau County District Attorney, is mounting a campaign centered on addressing crime in the county, community investment and public safety.
Upon taking office she assembled a team of prosecutors and law enforcement officials—including a former police commissioner—to focus on violent crime, narcotics, and unsolved cold cases.
Donnelly also assisted in the Gilgo Beach serial killer investigation and helped close multiple cold cases from the 1960s and 1970s. Donnelly has said her administration prioritizes justice for vulnerable populations, including animals, and has prosecuted abusers under animal cruelty laws.
Donnelly has been an outspoken critic of New York’s “Cashless Bail” and “Clean Slate” laws, which she argues put repeat violent offenders back on the streets. She has called for their repeal while voicing continued support for police.
Before her election, Donnelly served 32 years in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, most recently as deputy bureau chief of the Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau. Her cases included murder-for-hire schemes, narcotics rings, and a counterfeit electronics bust that led to the largest asset forfeiture in county history.
Donnelly holds degrees from Fordham University and Fordham Law School.
Aloise, 41, brings 16 years of experience as a prosecutor in both Nassau and Queens counties, including recent work as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her career in 2008 after earning her law degree from St. John’s University. In Queens, she helped secure more than 20 violent felony convictions and made case law by introducing the first NYPD body camera footage used in a New York City trial.
From 2019 to 2023, she served in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office as senior litigation counsel, prosecuting violent felonies and homicide cases. She returned to Queens in 2023 and continued her work until stepping down in 2024 to
run for district attorney. On the issues: Her platform includes strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau to better address attacks on Jewish and Asian communities, supporting the creation of a “death by dealer” statute to hold drug traffickers accountable in fatal overdose cases, and boosting funding for mental health, youth and violence prevention programs.
Aloise has also pledged to crack down on DWI cases through the county’s Vehicular Crimes Bureau and continue partnering with local police departments to improve public safety. She lives in Garden City with her family, serves on her school’s PTA, coaches youth soccer and teaches legal ethics as an adjunct professor at Molloy University.
Ejecutivo del Condado
Amendment to Allow Olympic Sports Complex In Essex County on State Forest Preserve Land. Allows skiing and related trail facilities on state forest preserve land. The site is 1,039 acres. Requires State to add 2,500 acres of new forest land in Adirondack Park. A yes vote authorizes new ski trails and related facilities in the Adirondack forest preserve. A no vote does not authorize this use.
Enmienda para Permitir Complejo Olímpico de Deportes En el Condado de Essex en Tierra de Reserva Forestal Estatal. Permite el esquí e instalaciones relacionadas de pistas en tierra de reserva forestal estatal. El sitio es de 1,039 acres. Requiere que el Estado añade 2,500 acres de nueva tierra forestal en el Parque Adirondack. Un voto afirmativo autoriza nuevas pistas de esquí e instalaciones relacionadas en la reserva forestal Adirondack. Un voto negativo no autoriza este uso.
Seth I. Koslow
Fiscal del Distrito
DEM, MOD Nicole Aloise
Controlador del Condado
DEM, MOD Wayne H. Wink, Jr.
County Clerk
Secretario
DEM, MOD Joylette E. Williams
Bruce A. Blakeman
Oyster
Anne T. Donnelly
Elaine R. Phillips
Supervisor
DEM, MOD
Sam C. Sochet
Secretario Municipal
DEM, MOD Kamalveer Kaur
County
Justice
S. Saladino
CON Richard L. LaMarca
actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to reflect all the districts within the communities covered edition of the Herald. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the Herald may be found at under the Elections ’25 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com
Oyster Bay Council Member Vote for Three (3)
Anand
Thomas P. Hand
Juez del Tribunal Sucesorio
Louis Imbroto
Daniel T. Smith
Andrew A. Monteleone REP, CON
DEM, REP, CON
David P. Sullivan
D. Steinberg
County Legislator
District 16
Legislador del Condado Distrito 16 Vote for One (1) REP, CON
Arnold W. Drucker
County Legislator
Jennifer Gallub Pravato
District 19
Legislador del Condado Distrito 19 Vote for One (1) REP, CON
Lynn M. Russo
James D. Kennedy
Justice of the Supreme Court
la Corte Suprema Vote for Eight (8) REP, CON
Kenny
Mark A. Cuthbertson
Margaret C. Reilly
Joseph C. Pastoressa
Steven A. Pilewski
James W. Malone
Carl J. Copertino
Bronwyn M. Black-Kelly
Juez de la corte de distrito
DEM, REP, CON
Nancy Nicotra Bednar
Donald X. Clavin, Jr.
Juez del Tribunal de Familia
REP, CON
Robert E. Pipia
Juez del Tribunal de Distrito
DEM, REP, CON
Maria Boultadakis
Robert G. Bogle
Howard E. Sturim
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 65
Legal career: Bronwyn Black-Kelly has served as a Suffolk County District Court judge since 2023, following a long career in both public service and private practice. From 1990 to 2022, she was a partner at the Law Offices of Black & Black, a general practice firm. Earlier in her career, she worked as an assistant district attorney in the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office from 1985 to 1989.
Black-Kelly earned her law degree from Hofstra University School of Law in 1985, and her bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University in 1981. She was admitted to the state bar in 1986, and is also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York and the U.S. Supreme Court. She is a member of both the Suffolk County and New York State bar associations.
Endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 59
Legal career: Since 2018, James Malone has been a District Court Judge. From 2014-2017, he was a principal law clerk for State Supreme Court Justice William Condon. He received his undergraduate degree from Clarkson University in 1983 and a law degree from Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center in 2005.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 69
Legal career: Judge Carl Copertino currently presides over family cases in the Family Court of Suffolk County and has served as a New York judge for 13 years.Previously, he spent five years as an attorney with the New York City Transit Authority. He received his law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1981. He was admitted to the New York State bar in 1981.
Endorsed by Republican and Democratic parties
Age: 59
Legal career: Mark Cuthbertson, a lifelong Huntington resident, focused his legal career on commercial real estate, municipal litigation, and the representation of municipalities and notfor-profit cemeteries.
Admitted to practice in New York and Connecticut, Cuthbertson earned his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Albany Law School of Union University. There, he served as the executive editor of the Symposium for the Albany Law Review. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Villanova University.
In addition to his legal practice, Cuthbertson has served on the Huntington Town Board since 1998, where he has worked to reduce and stabilize taxes while advancing environmental protection and smart growth initiatives. He sponsored legislation preserving hillside areas and open space throughout the town.
Endorsed by the Conservative party Age: 36
Legal career: Matthew McDonough, of Massapequa, has been admitted to practice law in New York since 2019. He is also admitted to the District of Columbia, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern districts of New York, the U.S. Tax Court, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit. McDonough, a graduate of the City University of New York School of Law at Queens College, he earned his Juris Doctor before serving a clerkship with the State Supreme Court. In 2020, he opened his private practice in Babylon, focusing on municipal and public sector law. He works often with local governments, businesses and residents on municipal policy, taxation and regulatory compliance.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 66
Legal career: Justice Joseph C. Pastoressa has served on the state Supreme Court in Suffolk County since 2012. Before that, he was an acting Supreme Court justice from 2004 to 2011, while also serving as a Court of Claims judge. Earlier in his career, Pastoressa worked in private practice, and later as a principal law clerk for a justice on the state Appellate Division, a Court of Claims judge and a state Supreme Court justice. He earned his bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University, and graduated cum laude from Brooklyn Law School.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 69
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 64
Legal career: Paul Kenny, a Glen Head resident, began his career in 1986 as a court attorney in the New York City Criminal Court and later joined a general practice firm in Queens. He served as co-counsel to the State Court Officer’s Association. From 1992 to 2007, he worked in the Kings County Supreme Court Law Department, as a court attorney-referee for matrimonial matters, and from 2000 as the deputy chief court attorney. He was appointed chief clerk of the Appellate Term, Second Department in 2007 and edited the Election Law Handbook for more than a decade. He serves on the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission, is an instructor at Lehman College, an adjunct professor at the NYC College of Technology and lectures at the Appellate Division, Second Department and State Judicial Institute on election law.
Endorsed by Republican, Conservative, and Democratic parties Age: 61
Legal career: Steven A. Pilewski is a longtime member of the state’s court system, with more than two decades of experience in judicial chambers. From 2000 to 2022, he served as principal law clerk to Justice Guy J. Mangano Jr. in the state Supreme Court in Kings County. Before that, he worked as a principal appellate law clerk for the Appellate Term of the 2nd Department from 1995 to 2000. Pilewski earned his law degree from Touro College in 1994, and received a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in 1989. He has been a member of the Suffolk County Bar Association since 1999.
Legal career: Margaret Reilly has served as a Nassau County Surrogate’s Court judge since 2016. She was previously a Nassau County Supreme Court Justice from 2012 to 2015, an acting justice from 2007 to 2012, and a twice-elected County District Court judge from 1998 to 2011. Earlier in her career, Reilly practiced law as a deputy Nassau County attorney, the Stewart Manor village prosecutor and a senior associate at Mulholland Minion & Roe and the Law Office of Vincent D. McNamara. She has lectured at Hofstra and Touro law schools, co-chaired the Nassau County Courts’ Women in the Courts Committee, and served as an adjunct professor in trial advocacy at St. John’s.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 54
Legal career: Nancy Nicotra Bednar is a lifelong Nassau County resident raised in Elmont. She lives in Rockville Centre.
A 1993 Notre Dame graduate with a bachelor’s in English, she graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York City in 1996 She has over 25 years of legal experience working with the Innocence Project to her leadership roles in the Nassau County Attorney’s Office and state courts.
In 2003, Bednar became a deputy bureau chief-for the General Litigation Bureau in the County Attorney’s office until 2008. Then a senior principal law clerk for Appellate DivisionSecond Department She is now a principal law clerk in the County Supreme Court
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 68
Legal career: Bogle has served as a New York judge for over 40 years and began his term after election in 2015. He also serves as a supervising judge of the Village Courts in the county. He received his law degree from Hofstra University in 1982 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in political science from Niagara University in 1979. Bogle has received awards such as the Magistrate of the Year Award from the State of New York in 2006 and the Frank J. Santagata Memorial Award from the Nassau County Magistrates Association in 2008.
A lifelong resident of Valley Stream, he and his wife, Kathleen, have two children. He is a Knights of Columbus member.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 56
Legal career: Donald X. Clavin Jr. is the former Town of Hempstead Supervisor who served almost 3 terms from 2020-2025. He stepped down in August. Clavin was the Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes from 20012019.
Previously Clavin worked as a trial attorney and as deputy county attorney in Nassau County’s Attorney’s office. Clavin holds a law degree from Hofstra University and a bachelor’s in history from Canisius College. Clavin lives in Garden City with his wife and two children. He has stated “tax relief” as his top priority. He also helped develop the town’s 2019 and proposed 2020 budgets, including tax cuts. He has also hosted public information forums
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 61
Legal career: Robert E. Pipia is a judge on the Nassau County District Court in the 10th Judicial District of New York. He was first elected in 2014.
Before that, Pipia was the executive assistant to then Town of Hempstead Supervisor’s Office. This followed his work as deputy town attorney for the town’s Attorney’s Office where he served as the Americans with Disabilities Act compliance coordinator.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNY Albany in 1987, and earned his law degree from Hofstra University in 1992. He was licensed in New York in 1993.
Born in Queens and raised in Elmont, he attended the Henry Viscardi School.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 39
Legal career: Maria Boultadakis is a candidate for district court judge in Nassau County’s 2nd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2012 and is registered with the New York State Unified Court System. She earned her law degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. Boultadakis has served as a law clerk for three New York State Supreme Court justices, and she also held the position of deputy county attorney in Nassau County from 2022 to 2023.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 55
Legal career: Karen L. Moroney serves as a judge in the Nassau County District Court, first elected in 2007, she was re-elected in 2013 and is currently serving a five-year term that expires at the end of this year.
Since 2017, she has also served as principal law clerk to Justice Sharon M.J. Gianelli of the Nassau County Supreme Court, and previously held similar roles for three other county Supreme Court justices. Her legal experience includes work as an attorney for the state Supreme Court and as an assistant district attorney in Queens County from 1992 to 1999.
Moroney earned her law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and was admitted to the bar in 1992. She is also admitted to practice before multiple federal courts.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 41
Legal career: Diana Hedayati is an attorney based in Plainview and a candidate for district Court judge in Nassau County’s 3rd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2010 by the Appellate Division, First Judicial Department and is currently registered with the New York State Unified Court System.
Hedayati graduated from Pace University School of Law. Her professional background includes over a decade of legal experience in the public sector, with a focus on administrative and regulatory law.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 66
Legal career: Howard E. Sturim is a New York Judge in the Supreme Court of Nassau County and has served for 10 years. His career began as an assistant district attorney for the Nassau County District Attorney’s office from 1991 to 2004. He prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases then became head of the Arson Unit and Major Offenses Unit. He then became a principal law clerk for the state Court of Claims to Alan L. Honorof before his term as New York Judge began in 2016.
Sturim earned his bachelor’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 1987 before receiving his law degree from Hofstra University in 1990 in the Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 60
Legal career: James A. Saladino is a district court judge in Nassau County, appointed in March of this year. He has over 30 years of legal experience, including service as a judge, law clerk, prosecutor and private practitioner. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a district court judge in Suffolk County, presiding over criminal and civil matters. Before that, he spent eight years as a principal law clerk in the New York State Supreme Court and practiced law as a partner at Saladino & Hartill, LLP. Earlier in his career, he was an assistant district Attorney in Suffolk County from 1991 to 2002.
Saladino earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and a B.A. from Boston University. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1991.
Kamal Kaur says Oyster Bay residents face too many delays when accessing public records—and she’s running for Town Clerk to fix that.
A first-time candidate, Kaur, 34, said her own struggle to retrieve her daughter’s birth record highlights wider issues with the office. She said residents often experience long waits for documents like building records. “The time that people are waiting is a pressing problem,” she said.
Kaur
Kaur believes the clerk’s office can be more efficient and cost-effective through better use of technology. While the town already uses digital recordkeeping, she says artificial intelligence could help streamline requests and cut costs in the office’s $1.5 million budget.
“It’s not about being a Republican or a Democrat,” Kaur said. “It’s about serving the community and helping people who come to you.”
She also criticized the town’s communication strategy, saying residents often don’t know what services are available. “More door-to-door is
necessary,” she said.
“Town officials need to go out and speak with people directly.”
Born in India and raised in Hicksville, Kaur has lived in the Town of Oyster Bay since age 3 She graduated from Hicksville High School and Queens College, where she earned a degree in business management. She and her husband, Prabhleen Virk, live in Muttontown with their daughters Arzoi, 7, Elahi, 4, and Waris, 3 months.
Professionally, Kaur manages human resources at Dawson & Virk Advisors LLC, a Hicksville-based CPA firm, and is preparing to open a UPS store on Pine Hollow Road in Oyster Bay.
Despite having no prior experience in elected office, Kaur said her motivation is rooted in public service. “I want to make a difference and help my community out,” she said.
The Oyster Bay town clerk serves a four-year term.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4 Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca says that while his experience spans both private and public sectors, government service requires something more.
“Government work is a totally different animal than work in the private sector,” LaMarca said, “requiring a high level of public service and community commitment.”
LaMarca, 61, a Republican, is seeking a second full term. Before being elected in 2019, he ser ved as the town’s director of labormanagement relations, managing relations with union employees.
A graduate of Oyster Bay High School, he earned degrees from Fordham University and an MBA from St. John’s University He and his wife, Justine, have five children: Anthony, Gabriella, Nicholas, Amelia and Peter.
Under LaMarca’s leadership, the clerk’s office expanded weekday hours and began opening on select weekends. He also enabled some transactions to be handled electronically, reducing the need for in-person visits.
“Having been a commuter for 20 years, I understand what it’s like for a resident to have to take time off from
work to get a marriage license or a fishing permit,” he said.
The office operates on a $1.5 million budget. LaMarca said he’s cut fulltime staff at Town Hall Nor th from 16 to 11, adding two part-timers. “We’re lean and mean,” he said.
One of his favorite duties, he said, is officiating weddings. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he arranged outdoor ceremonies at the Ethel Derby bandstand and the gazebo at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, attracting couples from as far as Babylon and Hempstead.
LaMarca also launched mass vow renewals held twice a year—on Valentine’s Day and the first day of fall.
“This job gives me great satisfaction,” he said. “If I can help people, it’s the greatest feeling in the world.”
He serves as president of the Oyster Civic Association and sits on several local boards.
The clerk’s term is four years.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Polls are open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Election Day is Tues., Nov. 4. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Democratic candidate Sam Sochet is making transparency a cornerstone of his bid for Oyster Bay Town Supervisor, pointing to what he says is a lack of public access, fiscal accountability and political balance.
Sochet, of Syosset, is a former principal of Van Buren High School in Queens and now serves on the Syosset Public Library board. He said town meetings should be held in the evening and better publicized so more residents can attend.
said. “Functionally, we’re still paying more.”
Affordability is central to Sochet’s platform. He said $1.4 million homes are pricing out both young professionals and longtime residents. He supports working with developers to allow more affordable options, like building two smaller homes on a lot otherwise zoned for one luxury house.
When Joseph Saladino became Oyster Bay Town Super visor in 2017, he says the financial picture was bleak: $765 million in capital debt, a $44 million operating deficit, and a junk-rated bond status.
Now, the Republican incumbent says the town has nearly $100 million in reser ves. “That turnaround is nothing short of a miracle,” Saladino said.
On the town’s moratorium on battery energy storage systems, or BESS, Saladino said safety is the top concern. “Once the professionals approve the plans in the right places, with proper precautions and away from homes, it’s something we’ll consider.”
“There’s a lot of mystery that surrounds how money in the town is allocated,” he said. “Everything in the town needs to be audited.”
He cited the town’s recent $4 million settlement involving a mosque in Bethpage—first reported in the New York Post—as an example of poor communication. He also questioned the process behind the appointment of Inspector General John Wighaus, asking why it took over two years to fill the post.
On taxes, Sochet disputed claims that rates have been flat since 2017. He said fees and other increases continue to burden residents. “The town should reduce town taxes to offset increases in other taxes,” he
He also called for creating councilmanic districts to replace at-large elections, noting that all four current board members live in Massapequa. “That is not a democracy,” he said.
On BESS energy storage regulations, Sochet said he needs more information before taking a stance. “There is nothing in the town meeting minutes or flyers that gives insight into the real issues or data,” he said.
He supports term limits and believes decisions like retiring the Massapequa “Chiefs” nickname should be made locally.
The Oyster Bay supervisor serves a twoyear term.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4 Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
As he seeks another twoyear term, the 64-year-old Massapequa resident emphasizes fiscal stability, local revitalization, and the scope of the job. “We’re not talking about running a library or a school,” he said. “Oyster Bay is the third-largest town in the United States. This is not a training ground.”
Joseph Saladino Party: Republican
A Massapequa High School graduate, Saladino earned a degree in broadcast journalism from New York Institute of Technology. He previously served in the state Assembly from 2004 to 2017.
He cited the Hicksville redevelopment—adding 560 housing units—as a model for growth. While housing affordability is a priority, he opposes high-rise, high-density development. “The answer is not high-rise housing,” he said.
He defended the recent appointment of Inspector General John Wighaus, citing Wighaus’ 30-plus years of experience and unanimous Town Board suppor t. Saladino opposes term limits, saying elected officials should be held accountable by voters, not arbitrary caps. He also criticized a new state law shifting most local elections to evennumbered years, arguing it will overcrowd ballots without saving money. He dismissed proposals for districtbased elections, saying the at-large system already reflects population density and avoids added costs.
Saladino supports Massapequa schools in resisting a state mandate to retire the “Chiefs” name and logo. “It’s a symbol of respect,” he said.
The supervisor’s term is two years.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Join us for one of the following tour dates:
Sunday, October 26, 2025
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Tours are available at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
With more than 175 undergraduate and 200 graduate program options, Hofstra University has something for everyone. Discover your passion in classes taught by distinguished faculty in state-of-the-art facilities. Build momentum toward your career with professional experiences through internships or coop programs. Find your people as you explore over 200 student clubs and organizations on a vibrant campus. At Hofstra, your future is set in motion.
In-person and virtual tours are available. For event details and to RSVP, visit hofstra.edu/foh
By Karen Bloom
he big day of tricks — and treats — is fast approaching. Ir’s the perfect excuse to let your spooky side shine. Whether you’re hosting little ghouls or adults who love a good fright, transform your home into a playful (or slightly spooky) party lair. Think mad scientist candy tables,“frightfully” delicious bites, bubbling mocktails, and enough treats to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Costumes optional, fun required. Not everyone wants to go all out with a full costume — and that’s fine! A Halloween Disguise Table lets guests add just a touch of whimsy. From goofy glasses and wacky hats to plastic fangs and spinning bow ties, everyone can join the fun, one accessory at a time.
Go for some spooky eats and magical drinks. Turn everyday foods into Halloween delights with cookie cutters, clever renaming, or inventive presentation. Sandwiches become tombstones, cookies turn into ghosts, you get the idea. Drinks? Pour them into vintage bottles and jugs and label them “magic potions” for an instant wow factor.
With a little imagination, your Halloween gathering can be a playful mix of tricks, treats and memorable moments — no matter your age. Try these tricked-out goodies for tasty spooking.
These friendly ghosts are sweetly spooky.
• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 cup extra-fine Baker’s Special Sugar
• Chocolate mini chips, for eyes
Preheat the oven to 200°F, with a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare a pastry bag with a 1/2” plain tip. Place the room-temperature egg whites into the bowl of a mixer. Add the cream of tartar. Beat on slow speed until the cream of tartar is dissolved and the egg whites are foamy. Slowly increase the speed of the mixer. When
the volume of the eggs has doubled and they begin to look opaque, sprinkle in about half the sugar. Continue to beat until the whites are glossy and getting stiff. Add the remaining sugar and mix until it’s evenly distributed and the whites hold a stiff peak.
Transfer the meringue to the pastry bag and, holding the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, pipe, with even pressure, about 2”-high mounds of meringue.
Carefully press two chocolate mini chips into each meringue ghost, to make eyes.
Bake the meringues for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, or until they’re dry and crisp to the touch.
Turn off the oven, open the door a couple of inches, and leave the meringues in the oven to finish drying several hours, or even overnight.
Remove the ghosts from the completely cold oven, and store them loosely covered. They should keep for several days at cool/dry room temperature. Yield: 20 to 24 ghosts.
Take a bite out of these mummies if you dare.
• 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 20 meatballs, pre-made
• Ketchup or mustard
• Marinara sauce, as desired
Heat oven to 375°F. Line work surface with cooking parchment paper. On parchment-lined surface, unroll dough and press perforations to seal; cut into 4 rectangles.
With knife or pizza cutter, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 10 pieces, making a total of 40 pieces of dough.
Wrap 2 pieces of dough around each meatball to look like “bandages,” stretching dough slightly to cover meatballs.
Separate “bandages” near one end to show meatball “face.” On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped meatballs.
Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and meatballs are hot. With ketchup and mustard, draw “eyes” on mummy
bites. Serve with warm marinara sauce.
Monster Mouths
A spooky treat you’ll want to sink your teeth into.
• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated peanut butter cookies
• 3/4 cup hazelnut spread with cocoa
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
Preheat oven to 350°F. Shape dough into 16 balls. On ungreased cookie sheet, place balls 3 inches apart.
Bake 15 to 17 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 20 minutes.
Spread hazelnut spread on bottom of each cookie; cut each cookie crosswise in half. For each “mouth,” press 4 to 5 marshmallows into hazelnut spread along rounded edge of 1 cookie half. Top with second cookie half, bottom side down; gently press together.
Melted Witch Punch
Take a sip and you’ll be feeling “witchy.”
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 (6 ounce) package lime-flavored gelatin mix
• 1 (46 fluid ounce) can pineapple juice
• 2 quarts orange juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 (2 liter) bottles chilled lemon-lime soda
Mix water, sugar, and gelatin mix in a large saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cook at a boil, whisking frequently, until gelatin and sugar have dissolved, about 3 minutes. Stir pineapple juice, orange juice, and lemon juice into gelatin mixture and transfer into resealable plastic bags. Place in freezer until slushy, about 4 hours.
Pour mixture into a large punch bowl and stir in lemon-lime soda; float a black plastic witch hat atop the punch.
Ruthie Foster is eager to share tunes from her new CD, “Mileage.” Renowned for her ability to weave together a tapestry of diverse musical influences ranging from gospel and blues to folk and soul, Foster’s musical odyssey has taken her from singing in churches in rural Texas to earning multiple Grammy nominations, gracing the stage with the Allman Brothers, and collaborating with Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. With her milestone 10th studio album, Foster continues to tell stories that reflect her personal triumphs, losses and the universal human experience. Born into a family steeped in gospel tradition, she initially shied away from the spotlight, preferring to play guitar, piano and write songs for others. Now, many albums later, she stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in music.
Friday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m. $43, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
One of America’s most distinctive and longest-running rock bands, Little Feat is back in a big way with a revitalized lineup and a stellar new album — its first of original material in over a decade. The venerable band is touring in support of ‘Strike Up the Band,” their first new studio album reliant on new material since 2012’s Rooster Rag. It’s Little Feat’s triumphant return to rock ‘n roll with plenty of swampy Southern soul. The band builds on a deep, over 50-year history of elite musicianship and brilliant, idiosyncratic songwriting that transcends boundaries. California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country and rockabilly mixed with New Orleans swamp boogie has kept audiences grooving for decades.
Saturday, Oct 25, 8 p.m. $141.25, $120.25, $99.75, $77.75, $66.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Wendy Klemperer: Wrought Taxonomies
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the ehibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museumgoers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encourage to picnic on the grounds.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
Billy Joel Exhibit is ‘Movin’ Out’
Now is your last chance to catch the Billy Joel Exhibit at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. The exhibit, ‘Billy Joel: My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey,’ closes Oct. 26. Billy Joel fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance as it is anticipated that many days will sell out.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
Family Fall and Halloween Festival
Celebrate the season at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Family Fall and Halloween Festival at Marjorie Post Park. With pumpkin picking and the popular Halloween hayride. Costumes are encouraged.
• Where: 451 Unqua Road, Massapequa.
• Time: 1-4 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 797-7925
Oyster Bay Harbor Fall Cleanup
Join the Town of Oyster Bay for a day of fall cleanup at the beach. All are welcome to participate.
• Where: Theodore Roosevelt Beach, 25 W. End Ave., Oyster Bay
• Time: 9 a.m.-noon
• Contact: (516) 677-5943
Schneider’s Farm Farmingdale Farmers Market is open weekly until Nov. 23, weather permitting, at Farmingdale Village Green.
• Where: 361 Main St., Farmingdale
• Time: Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. OCT
The American Foundation for
Suicide Prevention Long Island Chapter holds their Long Island Out of the Darkness Community Walk at Jones Beach. Register to walk or become a sponsor.
• Where: Field 5, 2400 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Contact: Carrie Aronson at (516) 865-3944 or afsp.org/ longislandwalkwest
Music at the Movies
• Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
• Time: 7 p.m.
Music Director Cristian Maˇcelaru leads the Orchestre National de France on its first U.S. tour in nearly 10 years, performing with Grammy-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov. Their brief three-concert tour, with a stop at Tilles Center, culminates in a much-anticipated return to Carnegie Hall. Founded in 1934 and prized as France’s leading orchestra, the Orchestre National first toured in North America in 1948. Joined by the pianist-extraordinaire (whose career has taken him far and wide, to Paris, throughout France, and to the most prestigious classical music venues in the world), the Orchestre National de France, the orchestra performs repertoires that lie at the core of its identity: Maurice Ravel (to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth), Elsa Barraine and Camille Saint-Saëns. Their brilliant repertoire features Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, along with Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 and two works by Ravel — Concerto in G and Daphnis et Chloe Suite No. 2 — with Trifonov as soloist on both of the program’s concerti. Under the baton of Cristian Maˇcelaru, this masterful program stuns in the musical story it provides, bringing the listener on a picturesque journey from start to finish. The programming of Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 with its gumptous string lines that compliment the playfulness of the work’s structure sits beautifully in the program with Ravel’s Daphnis & Chloé. The two piano concertos bring different stylistic characters to the stage, with Saint-Saëns offering late romantic era lushness and Ravel offering the lavish fancy. Hearing these two works performed by Trifonov, a performer with a dedication to perfecting concerto repertoire for piano, is iconic.
Farmingdale
Halloween Parade
Get your costumes ready for some free family Halloween fun. The parade will go down Main Street, with pony rides, petting zoo, costume contest, music and a trunk or treat following at the Village Green.
• Where: 361 Main St., Farmingdale
• Time: 1 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 200-1228
Dog Days Weekend
Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), With fall dog parade and costume contest on Sunday. Prizes awarded to best dog costumes, including Prettiest, Most Handsome, Most Original, Best Duo or Group, Funniest. Costume contest participants must register.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury.
• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.: also Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with costume parade/contest, 3-5 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
welcomes all to its latest theater production. Horrible news! The Mountain Boo Soda Company has their eyes on a piece of property for their new factory — Uncle Vlad’s pumpkin patch! Join Uncle Vlad, his nephew Chad, and their freakish friends as they team up to protect their Halloween home from the bony fingers of big business. The company is run by a skeleton, after all! With puppeteers and actors from LICM’s Theater, this musical adventure will tickle your funny bone as a Halloween treat for the whole family. $5 with museum admission ($4 members). $10 theater only.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., also Oct. 26
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Haunted Halloween
Step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration for some Halloween fun. Enjoy safe trick or treating, a kids’ costume parade and contest, witch-broom making, pumpkin painting, and other family fun. Meet the Headless Horseman and listen to a reading of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Enjoy the spooky fun while you appreciate the colors and beauty of the fall season in the farms, woods, and fields of the historic
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100
site. $15, $12 seniors and children 5-12.
• Where: 1303 Round Swamp Rd., Old Bethpage
• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Contact: oldbethpagevillag erestoration.org or call (516) 572-8409
Not-So-Spooky Ghost’s Missing Candy Halloween Puppet Show
Get into the Halloween spirit with giggles, not goosebump at Old Westbury Gardens. After trickor-treating around the gardens, take in The Not-So-Spooky Ghost Puppet Show by Wonderspark Puppets, taking place in The Barn at Orchard Hill! When a timid little ghost’s Halloween candy goes missing, only one detective is clever enough, brave enough, and smart enough to solve the case
– Mystery Max! Join Max on a wild adventure to find the ghost’s missing candy. Along the way meet crazy characters, make new friends, sing songs and find clues. Whodunit? $18, $15 seniors 65+, $12 ages 3+
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 1-2 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
The Massapequa Philharmonic is in concert with “Music at the Movies.” $20 suggested donation for students and seniors 65+. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite or at the door.
• Where: Berner Auditorium, 50 Carman Mill Road, Massapequa
• Time: 3-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: massphil.com or (516) 927-7374
OCT
Government Contracting
Series
New York Small Business Development Centers Business Advisor Lauren Linakis holds another free virtual workshop, “How to Respond to an RFP.” This class is free, but registration required.
• Where: Online
• Time: 11 a.m.-noon
• Contact: eventbrite.com/ cc/government-contractingwebinar-series-4602113 or (934) 420-2765
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.
ATTENTION STUDENTS:
THE HERALD IS HOLDING A CONTEST TO DESIGN HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER
THE WINNING DESIGNS WILL BE PRINTED AS HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP IN 12/4/25 & 12/11/25 ISSUES OF YOUR HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Who can enter: There will be 2 categories: Students in grades k-5. Students in 6-12 One entry per student
Deadline: Entries must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025
Requirements: All entries should have the student’s name, age, address, telephone number, email, grade and school printed on the back. Design can be reflective of all religious holidays. Entries will not be returned.
Mail or hand-deliver to:
Wrapping Paper Contest
Herald Community Newspapers
2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530 OR Scan and email to:
(No Photos of Artwork Will Be Accepted).
Winners will be notified by email or phone by November 21
• Must use 8 1/2 x 11” unlined paper, copy paper or construction paper.
• Be creative & original.
• Use bright colors.
• Fill the entire page.
Notice of formation of Rapid Analytical LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/19/2025
Office location, County of Nassau. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail a process served to: Rapid Analytical LLC, 11 Stephen Ln, Hicksville NY 11801
Purpose: any lawful act.
25-279. 10/8, 15, 22, 29, 11/5,12
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Notice of Formation of Premiere Homes Cleaning Services LLC.
Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 05/08/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Olina Esmeralda Osorio: 464 Bellmore Road, Apt. A, East Meadow, NY 11554. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
25-266. 9/24, 10/1, 8, 15, 22, 29
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SUREFIX STRATEGIES LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/12/2025.
Office location: County of Nassau. SSNY has been designated as agent
of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to:
SureFix Strategies LLC, 236 Broadway, Massapequa Park, NY 11762.
Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.
25-270. 9/24, 10/1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0370-25132066 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/ Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1500 Old Country Road, 2nd FL, Unit 240, Westbury, NY 11590, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at NY Axe Westbury LLC. 25-285 10/15, 22
Notice of formation of BusStopCafeNY LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 5/7/25. Office located in Nassau.
SSNY has been designated for service of process.
SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to legal zoom as registered agent at 7014 13th Ave #202 Bklyn NY 11228 Purpose: any lawful purpose.
25-286. 10/22, 29, 11/5,12, 19, 26
Massapequa residents looking for new career opportunities will have a chance to meet with some of Long Island’s top employers at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Mega Job Fair, set for Thursday, Oct. 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, 1001 Stewart Ave. in Bethpage. Admission and parking are free.
The event, hosted by Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and The Workforce Partnership, will feature companies from across Long Island hiring for positions in industries such as hospitality, banking, information technology, and professional services. Openings range from entry-level to mid-management roles.
“We’re proud to have helped thousands of residents find meaningful employment through our career center and private-sector job fairs,” Saladino said. “The Workforce Partnership and the Town of Oyster Bay are committed to helping residents find meaningful
employment opportunities as well as assisting local businesses in recruiting qualified employees. This Mega Job Fair will connect private and public sector employers with job seekers.”
The Town of Oyster Bay serves as administrator of The Workforce Partnership, a consortium of local governments funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The partnership operates Career Centers in Hicksville and Massapequa, which provide free job-training services, résumé assistance, and computer skills workshops for residents throughout the town.
At the Massapequa Career Center, residents can take advantage of computer labs equipped with Microsoft software, internet access, and other tools to help prepare for interviews and job applications. The center also offers one-on-one career counseling, employability workshops, and access to job listings that are updated daily.
“These centers help connect qualified job seekers with employers who are looking for talent right here on Long Island,” Saladino said. “They also help train residents so that our workforce can continue to grow stronger and more competitive.”
Officials encourage attendees to bring multiple copies of their résumés and to dress professionally. Job seekers will have the chance to meet directly with hiring managers representing both public- and private-sector organizations.
Residents unable to attend the Bethpage event can still explore job leads and training opportunities year-round through the Workforce Partnership’s Massapequa Career Center, located within the Town of Oyster Bay’s local service network.
For more information about the job fair or other Workforce Partnership programs, call (516) 797-4560 or email business@oysterbay-ny.gov.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26
•Farmingdale Farmers Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Village Green, 361 Main St., Farmingdale. The market will be open until Nov. 23. For more information, call (516) 249-0093.
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27
•Massapequa Fire District Monthly Meeting: 7:30 p.m., District Administra-
Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Beacon Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least twothree weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.
tion Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28
•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, please call (516) 624-6380.
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-
step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 3320552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
The Oyster Bay Town Board is partnering with Massapequa-based “Big Hy for Heroes” to collect DVDs for those deployed and serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces as well as movies for children’s hospitals. Donations will be accepted during the month of October and then delivered to Chaplains, Commanding Officers, Sergeant Majors and Sergeants around the globe to distribute to troops and arrange movie nights this holiday season.
“The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with Big Hy for Heroes for our Annual DVD Collection Drive and send thousands of DVDs to troops serving around the globe as well as to children receiving care in local hospitals,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We are asking everyone to help support these brave men, women and children by donating DVDs.”
The Big Hy for Heroes organization was founded in 2002 by Massapequa resident and WWII veteran Hyman Strachman who, along with his son Arthur Strachman, personally began sending DVDs to U.S. troops overseas. Over the years, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs all around the world and continues to do so today.
Exciting, suspenseful, comedy and classic DVDs are among the most requested by the troops for movie nights. Children’s movies are needed for local hospitals. Residents can donate DVDs at these two locations from Oct. 1-31: Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa
For more information on the DVD Collection Drive for U.S. Troops and local children’s hospitals, please call 516 624-6380.
Q. With winter coming, we’re realizing that our windows are drafty and hard to open. It’s time to replace them after 40 years in our house. As we start shopping around, are there windows you recommend, and why? We keep seeing commercials for replacement windows, and were wondering if there’s a difference since our window openings aren’t standard. I took some measurements, and some of the windows are very uniform — like 4 feet tall, and others are off by 2 or 3 inches and those don’t match one another. Will the new windows be custom fit to the openings, or will we need to change the openings? I’m concerned, because our house is brick, and it seems like not every window is going to fit. What should I look for when talking to a contractor, and will we need a permit?
A. The most important thing to look for with windows is energy compliance and the strength and ease of operating the hardware. Windows that will lose more energy are a poor investment, followed by those that can’t be opened easily as they age. The strength of the frames goes hand in hand with the window operation, because less costly vinyl windows are made of less costly materials that will distort over time and directly affect the seal around the frames, making for more difficulty opening and closing.
Lately I’ve noticed that clients are searching for unique styles and brands from faraway places and even other countries. One person asked me to look at a lift-out window from Southern California that was meant for a café serving counter, but they wanted to use it for a second-floor bedroom. The window was a push-out-and-up type that didn’t look like it could handle our weather in the Northeast. There was no energy data to show resistance to our winters, and nothing published that could pass our local codes.
Another client is getting windows from Poland. They’re very strong, triple-pane units that cost less and will probably comply with the energy codes, but it was a struggle to get the energy data in a format required in your state codes.
The rule with most building departments in your area is that direct replacement doesn’t need a building permit, but altering window sizes does. You should still verify this with your building department, because you want to avoid receiving a warning or summons during the installation and then having to stop to get plans made and permits filed.
Custom window sizes require creating extra framing to attractively insert standard sizes. If you reduce the window opening, it must still comply with safety requirements. Consult either a local official or an architect to be sure that you comply. The codes vary for existing window openings, which require 4 square feet versus altered openings that bump the required size up to 5.7 square feet. The architect can also give you some guidance about wood versus
fiberglass versus metal, etc.
luck!
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The federal government has been shut down since Oct. 1. I can’t stand it. I’ve been back and forth to Washington, but the Capitol is relatively quiet. Federal workers are missing paychecks; Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare applications can’t get processed; flights are being delayed; and without any action come Nov. 1, millions of Americans will be notified that their health insurance premiums are going up by over $1,000 — per month!
Why can’t we fix this? Republicans have the White House and majorities in both the Senate and the House, but they need eight Democratic votes in the Senate to pass a government funding bill. Despite the high stakes and the need for high-level bipartisan negotiations to end this crisis, no one is talking. Why?
Republicans say they won’t negotiate until the government is reopened. House Speaker Mike Johnson hasn’t called us back to Congress for a month. Senate Majority Leader John Thune refuses to budge, and President Trump continues his my-way-or-the-highway
“Nposture, unilaterally — and likely unlawfully — firing federal employees, cutting projects in Democratic states and eliminating programs to try to impose his will, making this shutdown as painful as possible.
The Democrats are just as dug in. They warn that those health insurance premiums will soon skyrocket because Republicans refuse to extend the tax credits that keep the premiums down. We’re running out of time.
We need a solution that staves off spikes in health insurance premiums.
If the credits expire, 22 million Americans, including more than 100,000 Long Islanders, will see their premiums spike. Healthy people all over the country will choose to forgo coverage, which will shrink the risk pool and raise premiums for everyone. The results will be catastrophic.
The crazy thing is, most Democrats want to reopen the government, and many Republicans want to extend the tax credits. The problem is that no one trusts one another. Republicans want to open the government with a handshake promise to talk about health insurance later. Democrats want it dealt with as part of the reopening. There must be compromise, often a dirty word in D.C.
Normally, I’d advocate for trust. I don’t believe shutdowns should be used
as negotiating tactics for these kinds of policy debates. But these aren’t normal times. For the past nine months, the administration has ignored the Democrats, unilaterally eliminating jobs and cutting key programs, reversing budget decisions without warning and generally steamrolling Congress’s constitutional authority over “the power of the purse” and the use of the military in our cities.
Johnson and Thune have refused to negotiate with Democrats. I’ve voted to keep the government open more than 40 times over my five terms in Congress. Each time, the governing majority has negotiated with the minority party, with the understanding that they simply don’t have the votes on their own.
How can Democrats reasonably be expected to trust that health care will be dealt with after the reopening in an environment of such fear, anger and distrust in Washington?
Nevertheless, we need to find a way to reopen the government as soon as possible, or things will only get worse. We need a solution that also staves off spikes in health insurance costs.
That’s why I’m leading a bipartisan effort with Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans. Our bill, the Premium
Tax Credit Extension Act, would extend the credits for one year, protecting families while giving Congress time to reach a broader health care deal. It’s not perfect. Like most of my Democratic colleagues, I’d prefer extending the credits permanently. But we’re in the minority, and we can’t let our aspiration for perfection stop us from achieving the good. Republicans, who can’t open the government without Democrats, must also see that truth.
The sticking point in this shutdown is health care affordability: Polling shows that the top concern in our country is the cost of living, and health care costs are a key contributor. At Trump’s inaugural address, he said he would “rapidly reduce prices.” I, like many Americans, hoped that he would. Now inflation is up, costs are climbing, and Americans feel duped. They want us to reopen the government, prioritize lowering costs —health care a big part of that — and stop playing partisan games while they pay the price.
For many Americans, Washington hasn’t just shut down this month — it’s felt closed for far too long. We need to reopen it in every sense: by rebuilding trust, negotiating honestly, and committing to working together to find solutions for the people we represent.
Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.
o man can step into the same river twice.” — Heraclitus, 500 B.C.
After spending the past few years in Florida, my husband and I decided this season to rent a place near Woodmere, where we lived in the same house for 51 years. I taught in the local schools, our kids grew up here, and our roots in the community run deep.
We’ve been back in town for about two months.
I don’t have meteorological data, but I believe we’ve had the most glorious autumn weather ever experienced in southwestern Nassau County. Until the nor’easter, of course, which brought back memories of Hurricanes Belle and Irene and Sandy.
I took myself to Woodmere Dock and found the seascape of the bay, the waterside holes of the Rockaway Hunting Club and the vast marshes all the same. I imagine I’m one of few people who
recall that the dock was owned at one time by the Ike family, who rented rowboats by the hour and owned an access road to the dock known as Ike’s Lane.
You can go home again, but if you do, be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different. And, of course, you are different, too. Our old house looks as if we closed the door and walked away yesterday. The tiny memorial to our dog Sheba still rests in a flower bed where we buried her ashes.
You can go home again, but be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different.
The second day up North, I walked into a doctor’s office and into a friend from our kids’ high school days. We looked the same, other than dusted and stamped by time. That afternoon, a woman jogged by our rental house, and I realized she was in a book group I ran 25 years ago. I kept running into people who looked as if a makeup artist had worked them over. And they did double takes when I reintroduced myself.
Things are where I remember them — firehouses and supermarkets and a few restaurants. But some stores are now banks, and many small businesses
have been replaced by medical megapractices, gyms or nail spas. Community boards advertise unfamiliar events and groups. I felt like Emily in “Our Town,” when she returns from the dead to revisit her 12th birthday and realizes that no one ever appreciates the everydayness of their lives while they’re living them. I took the LIRR to the city from Lawrence one day. I didn’t know where or how to park, how to buy a ticket or how to find the train schedule. Since I last rode the Snail, it went digital. I got a tutorial from my granddaughter and enjoyed a glorious day with her traipsing through downtown Manhattan. BTW, despite the fearmongering of many Floridians, the subway was clean, and it all felt safe.
Penn Station was emblematic of my experience, looking completely new and kind of brazen and futuristic, but foundationally the same. Track 19 is still Track 19, and the train back to Lawrence still left from there.
Another day, I drove from the Five Towns to Astoria. I hadn’t driven in city
traffic for six years. That was hell and a half. I felt gratified that my memory of the roads was accurate, and the Van Wyck still went to the Grand Central and then to Steinway Street — but what a holy mess the roads are. Everything is under construction, and cement trucks terrorized me all the way from here to there. My Waze app told me to go right so I could go left, and then an 18-wheeler backed into my lane. More people gave me the finger salute during that 50-minute ride than in all of my years driving.
The Woodmere and other towns of my younger self have evolved and, in some cases, disappeared. That’s what happens. New people, new shops, new activities festoon the old infrastructure. All the little back roads are the same, though. I realized I knew 10 different ways to drive anyplace.
I also know the origin stories, the history, of people and places, and it all came flooding back as I zipped about town. I felt grounded in the way you can only feel when your present is layered with rich memories of the past.
It’s autumn in New York again, and it’s good to be home.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
For decades, justice in Nassau and Suffolk counties often depended on eyewitnesses, confessions and detective work that, while diligent, was limited by the science of its time. But today, the breakthroughs of modern forensic science are rewriting history, freeing the innocent and holding the guilty accountable.
Last week, the Nassau County district attorney’s office announced a stunning development in one of Long Island’s most haunting cold cases, the 1984 murder of 16-year-old Theresa Fusco in Lynbrook. Fusco disappeared after finishing her shift at the Hot Skates Roller Rink. A month later, her body was found in a nearby wooded area.
For nearly 40 years, her family lived with grief and confusion, compounded by the wrongful convictions of three men whose lives were destroyed before DNA technology could prove their innocence. Those men — Dennis Halstead, John Kogut and John Restivo — spent nearly two decades in prison before DNA testing cleared them in 2003.
Now, that same science has brought the case full circle. Investigators linked Richard Bilodeau, 63, of Center Moriches, to the crime after obtaining DNA from a discarded smoothie cup earlier this year. When tested, it was a 100
percent match with evidence preserved from the Fusco crime scene.
“Science and DNA evidence doesn’t lie,” the district attorney’s office stated. And it doesn’t coerce confessions. It doesn’t forget. It doesn’t play favorites. It tells the truth when the truth is hard to find.
The Fusco case isn’t just about closure — it’s a lesson in progress. Four decades ago, detectives couldn’t imagine a world in which a cold case could be revived by a few microscopic cells. Today, the Nassau County forensic unit has reopened a number of cases, identifying both victims and suspects through genetic technology once considered science fiction.
Science is also central to another major Long Island case now unfolding in court: that of Rex Heuermann, the Massapequa Park architect accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer. There, too, DNA stands at the center of the search for truth. Prosecutors are relying on cutting-edge testing from Astrea Forensics, a California lab that analyzes even the tiniest hair fragments. Defense attorneys have tried to discredit the science as “magic,” claiming that New York courts haven’t yet accepted it.
But experts such as Dr. Kelley Harris,
The following letter was sent to Nassau County legislators.
The South Shore Women’s Alliance is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of women and families. In line with this mission, SSWA hosted “Not Me” workshops for parents and their daughters, in which the Safe Center LI, of Bethpage, played a crucial role, providing instruction on fundamental prevention and protection strategies, as well as education on the warning signs and cycles of abuse.
In addition to serving as the primary center for people affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse, the Safe Center operated as an advocacy center for child-abuse prosecutions, maintained a crisis-intervention hotline and offered an advocate-response program that dispatched trained volunteers to emergency rooms to assist survivors of rape, sexual assault and domestic violence.
The Safe Center was the lifeline for over 5,000 people each year, providing crucial resources and support to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence, the only center of its kind in Nassau County. It is unconscionable that County Executive Bruce Blakeman allowed it to close.
Nassau provided $2.9 million to the Safe Center in 2023. But when asked for county grants to keep the center going, Blakeman failed not only to provide the needed funding, but also to facilitate a takeover by another organization, forcing the center to shut its doors.
The Safe Center board’s former president, Shanell Par-
a University of Washington geneticist, defend the method as “elegant and powerful”— a reminder that while justice is constant, the tools to attain it evolve. Every forensic innovation, from fingerprints to fiber analysis to DNA sequencing, was once new and controversial. Yet each step forward has given law enforcement stronger, fairer tools to uncover facts that human memory or intuition alone could never provide.
Whether it’s exonerating the innocent, as in Fusco’s tragic case, or convicting the guilty, as prosecutors hope in the Gilgo Beach murders, forensic science is reshaping the path toward justice on Long Island. It demands accuracy. It demands accountability. And it demands that we trust evidence grounded not in guesswork or coercion, but in chemistry, genetics and time-tested truth.
For the Fusco family, science may finally bring the closure they’ve waited for since 1984. For the families of the Gilgo Beach victims, it may soon bring answers to a mystery that has haunted this area for years.
From Lynbrook to Massapequa Park and across Long Island, one message is clear: Science keeps faith with the facts — and with the people who deserve justice.
rish-Brown, said, “The county sort of left the Safe Center out to dry.”
As reported in Newsday, County Legislator Seth Koslow “said the impending closure could have been avoided with better county planning.”
“This was a failure of leadership in Nassau to ensure the safety of these children who have been victim-
ized once and are now being victimized again by the Blakeman administration,” Koslow said. “This wasn’t something that just fell out of the heavens — people saw this coming.”
Why weren’t there hearings about the future of the center when the financial problems first became known? Why hasn’t the Legislature’s
my 2025 began in a way that no one wants their new year to kick off: i got the flu. i woke up the first Monday of the year with a 103-degree fever, body aches that were almost unmanageable and a headache so intense i could barely keep my eyes open.
The one thing that made me smile that day was a text from my sweet grandma, a nurse, who wrote, “Hang in there. Eat some nice warm soup and toast. Comfort food.”
Grandmas always know best. in my dreary state, i decided to kick-start my annual reading goal of at least 50 books. i opened up “Sandwich,” by Catherine Newman, a witty tale of a family that has spent nearly every summer on Cape Cod, told from the perspective of its matriarch, rocky. The book explores love, lost dreams, hope and more, offering a well-rounded glimpse into the many life stages we all experience.
When i read, i highlight lines that leave an impression on me, either by writing them down or using a tool on my kindle. “Sandwich” was filled with them. i noted several things, but the one i kept thinking about in the days and weeks after i finished reading it was this: “Maybe grief is love imploding. or maybe it’s love expanding.” like everyone, i’ve experienced grief for different things, for different people, but i hadn’t truly encountered its profound weight — the type of grief that makes it hard to breathe.
iCatholic, she was devoted to her church, its people and myriad ministries.
t’s hard to put into words how much those final chats with her meant to me.
My grandma died unexpectedly on May 4, at age 85. She took excellent care of herself, and besides a few minor incidents in her later years, she was generally in great shape. All it took was a brief, serious illness that led to sepsis and eventually organ failure. Her last few days were filled with moments i fear i’ll never be able to comprehend.
She was an exceptional woman, as most grandmothers are. She had seven children, 10 grandchildren, and family and friends galore in her neighborhood of Middle Village, Queens. A devout
Health and Social Services Committee held hearings about how it might save the center?
Even more egregious is how Blakeman uses women’s trauma as a political ploy in mailings and TV ads against his opponent, while abandoning survivors of rape, abuse and domestic violence — effectively casting them onto the streets.
The South Shore Women’s Alliance gathered hundreds of Nassau resident signatures urging that, rather than spending millions of dollars on outside legal fees for frivolous culture war lawsuits or for his own personal militia, Blakeman reinstate the county’s only domestic violence center.
The SSWA requests that Nassau County allocate funds in the 2026 budget for opening a new facility that shelters and provides the services that the Safe Center provided to women and children of Nassau County.
ClAudiA BorECky Executive director, South Shore Women’s Alliance
The following letter was sent to United States Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
it has been reported that the u.S. Senate is advancing the confirmation of former Congressman Anthony d’Esposito to
be inspector general of the u.S. department of l abor. Nassau r esidents for Good Government is a nonpartisan group concerned about transparency, accountability and integrity. We believe Mr. d’Esposito is wholly unqualified for this job, and ask that you block his confirmation.
Anthony d’Esposito’s history of questionable hiring practices has been well documented. While at the New york City Police department, he reportedly broke labor rules by working a second job. More recently, d’Esposito was at the center of a scandal. in September 2024, it was reported that that while he was serving as a congressman in the 4th district, he put his fiancée’s daughter and his mistress on his congressional payroll, despite the House Code of Conduct prohibition against employing spouses, relatives and stepchildren.
There are also questions about his judgment. d ’Esposito was part of the GoP’s slate of 2022 freshmen candidates for Congress, which included the disgraced George Santos, who was expelled in 2023 (and just released from prison). d’Esposito reportedly had a close financial relationship with Santos, and coordinated with him during their concurrent 2022 House campaigns, sharing a campaign treasurer (who later pleaded guilty to conspiring to defrauding the u.S. government) and raising money together through the Santo d’Esposito Nassau Victory Committee.
d’Esposito says that if confirmed, he
The last day i saw her was April 19, the day before Easter. it was exceptionally warm — over 80 degrees in Queens — and we had lunch and a long chat about baseball. A tried-and-true yankees fan, she reminded me that she never rooted against the Mets, unless they were playing the yankees. That day, she told me her favorite Met was francisco lindor — who had hit a walkoff home run the night before, much to her delight. i guess we yankees fans know a thing or two about good shortstops.
it’s hard to put into words how much those final conversations mean to me. i never could’ve imagined that the next time i saw her would be our last moments together.
As i write this, i feel that overpowering sense of grief. This year didn’t start off the way i wanted it too, and really, it hasn’t gotten much better. There have been good moments, of course, but there have been a lot of sad ones, too.
it’s funny, though: As i think about
“Sandwich” — a book i decided to read maybe an hour or so after Grandma sent me well-wishes for the new year — i realize i can feel this way because before grief, there was love.
What i’m feeling is love imploding. i can’t say i’ve enjoyed the experiences i’ve endured this year, but i’m grateful that Grandma loved us so deeply that her absence leaves me with such a profound sense of loss, which is really just a testament to the type of person she was. All of us would be lucky to be loved so deeply, so consistently, by someone like her.
They say time heals all wounds, but i don’t always think that’s fair. The hurt i’ve felt these past few months may fade, but there will always be this void in my heart that only she could fill. i’ll wait forever, i hope, to see her again.
As her love expands in her absence, i hope to carry it with me everywhere — through every book i read, every milestone i reach and every ordinary day in between. if grief is love imploding, then maybe what follows is love reshaping itself, reminding me that she’s still here, in everything i do.
Jordan Vallone is deputy managing editor of Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? Jvallone@liherald.com.
will bring “grit, independence and accountability to the d epartment of labor.” in fact, his record is antithetical to that position and that promise. As detailed above, his record is one of corruption and a general disregard for ethical considerations.
President Trump chose d’Esposito despite his ethical lapses amid lingering questions about his hiring practic-
es. But the Senate doesn’t have to. Here in Nassau County, we have seen up close d’Esposito’s labor practices, which we believe should disqualify him from consideration. i nstead of advancing d’Esposito’s confirmation, it should be blocked.
NASSAu rESidENTS for Good GoVErNMENT
