Oyster Bay Herald 02–05-2026

made

activities.

Suozzi backtracks on funding for ICE following public backlash

By RoKSANA AmID & WIll SHEElINE of the Oyster Bay Herald

More than 50 current and former constituents gathered outside the Glen Cove office of Rep. Tom Suozzi on Monday, demanding the immediate cessation of funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement after Suozzi, along with six other Democrats, crossed party lines to support a Department of Homeland Security funding bill that included major financial backing for the agency.

“I was angry, because we had called his office many, many times asking him to vote no,” said Marsha Wiseltiar, of Glen Head,

who joined the protest with other residents.

“We don’t want to see our citizens hurt and killed and taken and handled by a bunch of thugs, and this is how you send that message.”

Maureen Tracy, a retired teacher who lives in Glen Cove, said Suozzi’s vote felt like a betrayal after she had supported his campaigns for years.

“My grandparents were immigrants from Ireland, and they were not treated the way immigrants are being treated here today,” Tracy said. “When I heard about Tom Suozzi’s vote, I was furious. We did door-todoor for him. We supported him 100 percent.

Continued on page 6

literacy in district schools

By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Devra Small, principal of Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, and Anastasia Smith, principal of James H. Vernon School, presented an overview of instructional programs, student achievement and facilities improvements to the Oyster BayEast Norwich Central School District Board of Education on Tuesday, highlighting districtwide efforts to align teaching with research-based best practices.

focused on strengthening students’ word recognition and their language comprehension.

“We work continually to ensure that our instruction is aligned with the research into best instructional practices,” she said. “Today we’re going to highlight some of the work we’re doing in building language comprehension.”

W e work continually to ensure that our instruction is aligned with the research into best instructional practices

The presentation focused on literacy, math, science, social studies and social-emotional learning in the two elementary schools, as well as on recent investments in instructional space and technology.

DEVRA SmAll Principal, Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School

Small opened by thanking district leadership and the board for ongoing support, and explained how the schools have

The district has partnered with the Literacy Matters Foundation, a wing of the Children’s Literacy Project nonprofit, to design literacy curriculum that builds background knowledge and vocabulary while integrating grammar, mechanics, science and social studies content. The units were implemented last year in kindergarten and first grade, and are expanding this year into second and third grades.

Project-based learning is embedded in each unit, Smith said, in keeping with the

Continued on page 7

HERALD SCHOOLS

Students clown around at Bayville Intermediate

Bayville Intermediate School fifth graders demonstrated their athleticism, attentiveness and team work at the annual Circus Night performance on Jan. 30.

With one fewer day to practice their routines due to the Monday snow day, this year’s fifth graders showed an ability to pick up the acts quickly, which ranged from balancing, clowning, hula hooping, diablo stick throwing, juggling and stilting. Throughout the week, students worked with professionals from the National Circus Project during their P.E. periods.

Organized by the Bayville Elementary Parents Council, this annual tradition helps students discover their ability to achieve incredible feats and coordinate intricate routines with their classmates in a short period of time.

News briefs

Wear red and stand up to

Town of Oyster Bay employees and residents across Long Island are encouraged to wear red on Friday in recognition of the American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day. This initiative helps raise awareness in the fight against the nation’s number one killer of women, cardiovascular disease. As part of National Wear Red Day, Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the town board will illuminate Town Hall North in red.

“February is American Heart Month, and as such, the Town Board and I are proud to help unify the Town for National Wear Red Day to come together and unleash a wave of red from the Atlantic Ocean to the Long Island Sound,” Saladino stated. “Cardiovascular disease continues to be a significant threat to women’s health, as nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented through awareness and early detection, and heart disease is the number one killer of women age 25 and older. As a nation, we must make every effort to reverse these statistics by supporting research and education initiatives.”

Go Red for Women was created in 2004 after statistics showed that nearly 500,000 American women were being killed each year by cardiovascular dis-

heart disease

ease. The AHA’s Go Red for Women campaign urges women to take charge of their health. In 2014, the American Heart Association launched their new “Life is Why” campaign to create a more personal and emotional connection with consumers to ask themselves why we do what we do, or more specifically why we should choose to live healthier lifestyles.

“Established by six cardiologists in 1924, the AHA has spent billions on research to increase our knowledge about cardiovascular diseases and stroke and has funded life-saving educational programs and tools for physicians,” stated Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “Heart disease is the number one killer worldwide, and strokes rank second globally, and it is vital that we raise awareness about their potential lethality, especially in women. I am proud to help lead the National Wear Red Day initiative here in the town and I encourage all of our employees to wear red on Friday, Feb. 6th.”

Additional information about National Wear Red Day and Go Red for Women is available by calling 1-888-MY-HEART or visiting www.GoRedForWomen.org.

–Will Sheeline

Discussion on youth heart health in LV

The Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club will partner with Glen Cove Hospital to host a community discussion focused on youth heart health and the potential cardiac risks facing student athletes.

The event, titled “Cardiac Risk for Student Athletes: A Community Conversation,” will take place Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club in Locust Valley as part of the club’s Community Cares Conversation Series. Led by telemetry physicians Dr. Brittney Grella and Dr. Sophie Golden, the session is designed for parents, coaches, educators, caregivers and community members who want to better understand how heart conditions can affect young athletes and what steps can be taken to reduce serious risks.

The discussion will explore a range

of topics, including which students may be most vulnerable to cardiac issues, common and lesser-known warning signs that should never be ignored, and strategies to promote safer participation in school sports.

Part of the conversation will focus on cardiac screenings, including whether baseline heart testing should be mandatory for all student athletes before they participate in competitive sports. Organizers hope the dialogue will help families make informed decisions about their children’s health.

The event is free and open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend. For more information or to RSVP, contact Tara ButlerSahai at 516-759-5437, Ext. 214, or email tara.butler-sahai@gbbgc.org.

–Roksana Amid

622-7460

■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643

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

By WILL SHEELINE

things to know Fire department

Jan. 15 fire at Theodore Roosevelt marina

wsheeline@liherald.com

A fire that broke out in the marina at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park early Jan. 15 destroyed a docked motorboat and damaged nearby marina structures, prompting a multi agency response that showcased newly expanded marine firefighting capabilities, according to the Atlantic Steamer Fire Company. Here are three things to know about the incident

The fire started on a docked boat and spread to marina structures

The fire began on a motorboat docked in the town owned marina at approximately 2:32 a.m., when local firefighters were dispatched, according to Atlantic Steamer Fire Chief Francesco Barbera.

The first unit arrived on scene at 2:36 a.m., just four minutes later. By the time firefighters arrived, flames had already spread beyond the vessel.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Barbera said the fire department followed standard procedure by turning the investigation over to fire marshals, who are investigating the cause.

There was no indication that anyone was on board the boat at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported.

Firefighters

fought the blaze from land and water

Multiple pieces of apparatus were deployed, including engines, a ladder truck, a tanker, ambulances and marine units from Atlantic Steamer, Oyster Bay Fire Company No. 1, and Bayville Fire Company No. 1. During operations, the burning vessel broke free from its dock lines and began drifting in the marina, creating an additional hazard.

Firefighters stayed with the vessel to prevent it from spreading the fire to other boats or docks. According to Barbera, the fire boat was used to maneuver the drifting vessel and keep it clear of other flammable structures while crews continued suppression efforts. While marine crews focused on the vessel, other firefighters worked to extinguish the fire on the damaged bulkhead. Units were released by 3:34 a.m., Barbera said.

Boat was destroyed, but response was opportunity to test new vessel

The motorboat involved in the fire was fully destroyed. The wave break and bulkhead sustained damage but were not destroyed, Barbera said. The marina is owned by the Town of Oyster Bay, which is responsible for repairs to town property.

Although the incident resulted in property damage, Barbera said it also demonstrated the value of their recently purchased fireboat, outfitted for aquatic firefighting operations.

Barbera emphasized that the vessel is a significant investment that enhances public safety without unnecessary spending.

Despite the challenges, firefighters were able to contain the fire, prevent it from spreading to other vessels and clear the scene without injuries.

Suozzi calls ICE actions ‘outrageously wrong’

Continued from page 1

There are plenty of fabulous people in our communities who are not criminals like they’re trying to say.”

Outside Suozzi’s office, demonstrators held signs and chanted, drawing a mix of encouragement and criticism from passing drivers. One shouted, “Get a job!” prompting a protester to respond, “Get a conscience!” Other drivers honked in support and asked how they could help.

The rally was sparked by Suozzi’s Jan. 22 vote in favor of a $64 billion Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill. Suozzi and fellow Long Island Democrat Laura Gillen were two of just seven House Democrats who supported the measure, which will fund DHS and agencies under its umbrella, including ICE.

Days later, Suozzi publicly distanced himself from the vote, following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by a federal immigration agent in Minneapolis. Pretti’s was the second deadly shooting of a U.S. citizen by a federal agent in the city in last month, after the killing of Renee Good.

“I failed to view the DHS funding vote as a referendum on the illegal and immoral conduct of ICE in Minneapolis,” Suozzi wrote in a statement. “I hear the anger from my constituents and I take responsibility for that.”

An employee of Suozzi’s office met with protesters during Monday’s rally, distributing comment sheets on which residents could write concerns and complaints for the congressman to review. In a follow-up statement after the protest, Suozzi condemned recent immigration enforcement tactics while reiterating support for border security.

“ICE’s illegal and immoral actions have dramatically affected all Americans and protestors today represent all of us who are demanding change,” he wrote. “The Trump administration is right to secure the border and deport violent criminals, but masked agents breaking car windows and dragging people out of their cars, assaulting protestors, conducting violent warrantless raids and killing people is outrageously wrong, un-American, and I will fight to stop them.”

Halle Brenner, a Huntington resident and a co-founder of Show Up Long Island, who organized the protest, said the group formed in 2017, during President Trump’s first term.

“We spend a lot of time holding Republican officials accountable because they’ve pushed these policies,” Brenner said. “But when a Democratic politician does something we don’t agree with, we have to be there, too. We’ve written postcards for Tom Suozzi, knocked on doors, made phone calls for

his campaigns. That’s why this hurt.”

Brenner said that the group views ICE’s actions across the country as increasingly violent and unconstitutional. “They’re smashing car windows, dragging people out of vehicles, breaking down doors without warrants, separating families,” she said. “To keep funding this agency is astonishing. It’s unAmerican, and dangerous to all of us.”

While Brenner said she appreciated Suozzi acknowledging his mistake, she emphasized that future votes will matter more than statements. “Apologies are meaningless unless actions follow,” she said. “We’ll see what he does the next time funding comes up.”

Tracy echoed that sentiment, saying she was encouraged by Suozzi’s reversal but wanted to make sure he stuck to it. “I was thrilled to see a congressman admit he was wrong,” she said, “but we’re here to remind him — and to make sure he does the right moral thing moving forward.”

Wiseltiar said that recent events have motivated residents who were previously less politically active.

“What’s happening now has really pushed people into action,” she said. “We’re watching neighbors taken, communities destroyed. People can’t stay silent anymore.”

In a phone call to the Herald on Tuesday, a representative from Suozzi’s office

protesters, who held a variety of handwritten signs, said they would return if future congressional votes continue to fund iCe

confirmed that he personally responded to all of the comment forms submitted by protesters.

Organizers said they plan to continue demonstrating if future congressional votes continue to fund ICE, stressing that Monday’s protest was only one step in a broader push for immigration reform and accountability.

“This isn’t going away,” Brenner said. “We still have time to stop what’s happening — but only if we keep showing up.”

Elementary schools focus on literacy data

board’s goal of supporting inquirybased learning. As an example, she described a recent second-grade unit on communities that culminated in student projects ranging from models and posters to original song lyrics performed for classmates.

Student performance data showed positive results, according to the principals. On the spring 2025 i-Ready assessment, 69 percent of students performed at or above their grade level in math, and 82 percent did so in English language arts. The gains were particularly strong in informational text comprehension among kindergarten and firstgrade students, with 34 percent more kindergartners and 47 percent more first-graders reaching grade level from September to June.

Both schools have expanded datadriven instruction through regular datareview meetings. At Theodore Roosevelt, the staff meets three times a year as part of the Multi Tiered System of Supports — described as a “school improvement framework” by the State Department of Education — to plan targeted interventions. At Vernon, bimonthly data-review teams analyze benchmark data and classroom observations to guide academic intervention services. Reading intervention has also been strengthened with the certification of five additional teachers in the Wilson

Will Sheeline/Herald

the Board of education heard about changes to the oyster Bay-east norwich Central School district’s approach to early-childhood literacy.

Reading System.

Smith highlighted new literacy units in third grade, including a recently completed one on weather and an upcoming unit on countries. To support interdisciplinary learning, third-graders recently attended an African dance performance at LIU Post’s Tilles Center.

She also described expanded smallgroup instruction using programs such as Stellar Literacy, a new skill-based reading block for noon-to-1 p.m. classes, and student choice in nonfiction writing projects using either technology or traditional pen and paper.

Social studies instruction this year is tied to preparation for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, with curriculum developed over the summer and community partnerships planned for the spring. Both principals also outlined

Vote

author visits, cultural celebrations such as the Lunar New Year events and participation in districtwide International Night.

In math, instruction emphasizes hands-on learning that progresses from concrete manipulatives, or physical objects that help students visualize mathematic concepts, to abstract problem-solving. Science, technology and engineering initiatives include robotics, virtual-reality equipment supported by PTAs, science fairs and recognition of both schools by the nonprofit Common Sense Education as Common Sense Schools for teaching digital citizenship.

Smith detailed a wide range of interdisciplinary projects at Vernon, including Market Day, ancient civilizations, Explorers presentations and STEM nights. She also highlighted increased involvement in state exams. From

spring 2021 to spring 2025, participation in grades three through eight ELA exams increased from 76 percent to 84 percent, and in math, from 74 percent to 84 percent.

The presentation also addressed health, safety and student well-being. Both schools have implemented comprehensive health education curricula, expanded training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillators, and safety workshops for staff.

Facilities improvements were showcased in a video tour that featured students as guides. At Theodore Roosevelt, upgrades included a refurbished stage and improved climate control in the cafeteria. At Vernon, there is a new athletic center and expanded English as a New Language and Academic Intervention Services spaces.

The principals emphasized school culture, noting programs that promote kindness, inclusion and community engagement. Theodore Roosevelt was recognized this year as a Distinguished Kindness School by the Random Acts of Kindness organization, while Vernon has expanded student leadership opportunities through its [//A?//]mbassadors [//C?//]lub and spirit-based events.

Board trustees praised the presentation and the breadth of programming it highlighted. The next school board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 17.

Long Island Children’s Museum

Long Island’s fragile drinking water system

Experts explain what lies beneath the surface, and detail the threats to our crucial aquifers

By JORDAN VALLONE, WILL SHEELINE & ABIGAIL GRIECO of the Herald Community Newspapers

First installment in a series about water.

On Long Island, we’re not talking enough about water.

From the drops coming out of our taps to the waves breaking along both shores, myriad water-related issues have the potential to impact Long Islanders’ day-to-day lives.

The water system is not a single pipeline or policy, but a web of underground aquifers, aging infrastructure, coastal ecosystems — and policymakers — that together determine who has access to clean, affordable water — and who faces the greatest risk when that system begins to fail.

This series will break down how Long Island’s water system works, from aquifers to coastal bays, and clarify how policy, infrastructure and governance shape access to clean, affordable water. It will also examine the environmental pressures facing that system, from contamination and climate change to the health of bays, fisheries and drinking water supplies.

Through global reports that demonstrate the rapid growth of freshwater use over the past century, and interviews with environmental experts and regional advocates who connect these issues locally, this first installment examines what lies beneath the surface: the water we drink, and how contamination and access may disproportionately affect certain communities.

The sole source beneath Long Island

In order to understand Long Island’s relationship with drinking water, it’s essential to understand where the water comes from. The island relies on aquifers, underground layers of sand, gravel and clay that store billions of gallons of water accumulated over tens of millions of years. More specifically, Long Island relies on three: the Upper Glacial, the Magothy and the Lloyd (as well as a fourth, significantly smaller one, the Jameco).

These aquifers together are designated a single-source aquifer system by the Environmental Protection Agency, which means that “your groundwater supply is provided by an aquifer that serves at least 50 percent of your water needs,” according to Sarah Meyland, a former professor at New York Institute of Technology.

Meyland explained that both Nassau and Suffolk counties rely on this single aquifer system for 100 percent of our freshwater, whether it comes from a tap, shower or sprinkler. While this has meant that Long Islanders have had access to clean, easily accessed drinking water for decades, the aquifers, particularly in Nassau County, have one major downside.

“This aquifer needs to be particularly well protected, because if you damage it,

or if you ruin it, you don’t have any other source of water,” Meyland said.

“And that’s exactly the situation Long Island is in. We don’t have a secondary backup source of water.”

Since the federal government began measuring water usage in Long Island’s aquifers in 1900, roughly 5 percent of drinkable water has been consumed or lost due to salinization, the process by which freshwater is turned into saltwater. It occurs in aquifers due to overpumping, as water is taken out faster than it is replaced, causing saltwater from the Long Island Sound and the ocean to fill in the missing volume.

tion of the aquifer system is already nonfunctional, Queens is barely better, and both now get their water from the New York City water system, which pumps freshwater in from upstate. Nassau is well on its way to following them; the difference is there is no municipal entity to bail Nassau out.

RISING TIDES

as of 2021, the United States withdraws the third-highest amount of freshwater from underground globally, roughly 444.4 billion cubic meters per year.

A key conclusion from the university’s report put the crisis in simple terms: “The world is already in the state of ‘water bankruptcy.’” In many basins and aquifers, long-term overuse and degradation, the report says, means that “hydrological and ecological baselines cannot realistically be restored.”

What areas are more affected?

If Long Island continues on the same path of aquifer depletion without any intervention from state authorities, such as the Department of Environmental Conservation, Meyland said, Nassau County will suffer more than Suffolk within the next 50 years.

“It’s about a third of the size of Suffolk with roughly the same number of people,” she said. “The Town of Brookhaven is the same size as the county of Nassau. So Nassau County will continue to experience saltwater intrusions. That’s going to put pressure on virtually all of the water suppliers along the north and south shore.”

Meyland singled out Long Beach as an area that would likely lose its entire local water supply because of saltwater intrusion to the Lloyd Aquifer, the only aquifer the city draws from.

The vast majority of the used water is consumed by private sprinklers and irrigation systems, many of which are automated to water yards and home gardens. According to Meyland, Long Island has the highest per-capita water use of any community from New York to North Carolina, and the vast majority of that use occurs from spring through fall, when sprinklers turn on and swimming pools fill up.

There is no known way to create new water, or to speed up the natural replenishment process. Desalination plants, which remove salt from water, are becoming more common globally, but they are expensive projects, according to Meyland.

“It’s like a bank account,” Meyland said. “The water, the money coming in, needs to be at least equal to the money going out.”

Water bankruptcy

While a 5 percent loss may seem inconsequential, the real problem is there’s no way to efficiently and cheaply replenish that loss. And the damage is not evenly distributed: The vast majority of the loss takes place in Brooklyn, Queens and Nassau, which have not effectively stewarded their portions of the aquifers.

Suffolk, which has the lowest population density of the four counties, has proactively monitored and managed its water intake and outflow for years, leaving its portion of the aquifers “a system in balance,” as Meyland described it.

She pointed out that Brooklyn’s por-

The issues impacting drinking water supply are not unique to Long Island. According to a report released by the United Nations University last month, the world is entering an “era of global water bankruptcy” — a new, formal definition of a reality for billions of people. The report called for a “fundamental reset” of the global water agenda, as irreversible damage pushes sources of fresh drinking water beyond recovery.

“This report tells an uncomfortable truth: Many regions are living beyond their hydrological means, and many critical water systems are already bankrupt,” said the report’s lead author, Kaveh Madani, the director of the UN University’s Institute for Water, Environment and Health.

Numbers published by Our World In Data, a nonprofit publication that uses data to explain global issues like poverty, disease and climate change, showed that

“They will have already been forced to look for other sources of water, whether they make arrangements from New York City, or they make arrangements and buy water from some of their neighboring water suppliers,” Meyland explained. “I’m sure there will be a lot of pressure to desalinate water, but that will be very expensive.”

On the North Shore of Nassau County, she said, areas of the Great Neck and Manhasset peninsula, including Sands Point, are at risk of losing their supplies of water, also due to salinity. And their options are limited, she added, because some of these communities are already piping water from other parts of Long Island.

Water suppliers are aware of the risk the future holds, Meyland said, but it is unfair to put the burden on them to fix the situation. “They are not at fault for what is happening to the water supply for coastal communities,” she said. And water supplies are not only depleting on Long Island, but they are also contaminated.

The Environmental Working Group affiliated with Citizens Campaign for the Environment, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for stronger environmental policies in New York and Connecticut, released a report in 2025 showing that a least 189 New York water systems — primarily serving residents of Long Island — detected high levels of toxic so-called “forever chemicals,” or PFAS, in tap water.

The report showed that 702,000 residents in Nassau County and 122,200 resi-

Detailing the threats to L.I.’s drinking water

dents of Suffolk have elevated levels of PFAS in their water supplies. Some particularly vulnerable communities include those serviced by the Lynbrookbased Liberty Utilities, the Water Authority of Western Nassau and the Hempstead Town Water District.

What can be done?

According to Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, geography and land use play a major role in why some Long Island communities experience more severe water quality issues than others.

“The biggest driver for water quality in the marine environment is land activity,” Esposito said, noting that polluted stormwater runoff, fertilizer use and marine debris all flow from developed areas into surrounding bays and waterways.

Highly populated and heavily developed regions — particularly along the South Shore — generate greater amounts of runoff, which carries excess nitrogen from lawn fertilizers, bacteria and debris into nearby bays. That nitrogen fuels algae growth, which depletes oxygen levels and can lead to fish kills and damage to shellfish populations.

Aging infrastructure in some coastal communities continues to pose challenges. Esposito pointed to the Long Beach’s sewage treatment plant, which discharg-

es roughly 5 million gallons of wastewater per day into Nassau County’s Western Bays. While the wastewater is treated, Esposito said the facility is old and in need of major repairs.

The Western Bays have been among the most degraded areas, in part due to decades of treated sewage discharges and runoff from surrounding communities. Marine debris, including plastic bottles, cigarette butts and food packaging, often originates farther inland, and makes its way through tributaries before washing into coastal waters, Esposito said.

On the North Shore, in areas that still rely on septic systems, groundwater contamination presents another challenge, as pollutants can leach directly into aquifers and nearby waterways.

I f you

result of years of advocacy and scientific review.

In addition to regulating water systems themselves, Esposito highlighted a first-of-its-kind state law, passed in 2019, that limited the amount of 1,4-dioxane allowed in common household and personal care products. The law was phased in over several years and was fully implemented in 2023, reducing the amount of chemicals entering wastewater systems in the first place.

to protect our waters and public health, sometimes you have to speak out

AdrIenne d’esposIto Executive director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment

Esposito pointed to several major policy changes that have reshaped how New York addresses water contamination, particularly by emerging chemicals like PFAS and 1,4-dioxane.

She noted that the state now has some of the nation’s strongest drinking water standards for these chemicals — standards that are fully implemented across Long Island’s public water systems, the

Esposito also emphasized the importance of preventing pollution at its source, rather than relying on expensive treatment systems after contamination occurs. Citizens Campaign has spent several years advocating for legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste, a significant contributor to marine debris found in Long Island’s bays and waterways.

One of the most significant steps underway is the long-awaited redirection of treated sewage from the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility, in Bay Park, away from the Western Bays and into the Cedar Creek ocean outfall pipe — a nearly $600 million project more than a decade in the making. The change is expected to dramatically improve

water quality in the Western Bays once the Bay Park Conveyance Project is completed.

At the local and state level, municipalities are also tapping into grant programs designed to reduce stormwater pollution. These initiatives fund upgrades to stormwater systems, filtration devices that remove nitrogen and bacteria before runoff reaches waterways. Environmental organizations, including Citizens Campaign, Operation SPLASH and the Nature Conservancy have played a key role in advocating for these measures through long-term collaboration and public pressure.

Looking ahead, Citizens Campaign plans to launch a new marine debris prevention campaign this spring, focused on public education and outreach, emphasizing that litter discarded anywhere on Long Island can ultimately end up in coastal waters. The organization is also continuing its push in Albany for legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste and monitoring contaminants entering waterways through wastewater systems.

Residents can make a difference, Esposito said, by limiting fertilizer use, properly disposing of trash and supporting redevelopment over construction on green spaces.

“We encourage people to get up, show up and speak up,” she said. “If you want to protect our waters and public health, sometimes you have to speak out.”

Hispanic chamber honors community members

The North Shore Hispanic Chamber held its 5th Annual Winter Celebration at the Sea Cliff Yacht Club on Jan. 29, honoring the contributions of five community members for years of work and public service.

This years honorees were Pascual Blanco, cofounder of the nonprofit La Fuerza Unida, for the American Dream Award; Felicia Kasow, director of PURE Mammography and member of the Long Island Advisory Board of the American Cancer Society, for the Outstanding Community Supporter Award; Christopher Ortiz, Glen Cove’s chief of police, for the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Alexa Doeschner, superintedent of the Glen Cove City School District, for the Community Leader Award; and Rafael Maldonado, owner of James Auto Works, for the Business of the Year Award.

Nassau County Minority Leader Delia DeRiggiWhtton and Glen Cove City Mayor Pam Panzenbeck also awarded city and county citations, and attendees, the honorees and their families ended the event with dancing.

BUSINESS EXPO & WORKSHOPS

things to know about black history month

February is Black History Month

By CHRIS COLUCCI

ccolucci@liherald.com

Each year, the US celebrates dozens of month-long observations including Women’s History Month in March, Jewish American Heritage Month in May and National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Every February, Black History Month turns a spotlight toward countless Black figures who’ve influenced society, as well as the issues they faced which continue to impact the population of 51 million Black Americans today.

Black History Month is 100 years old

February’s designation as Black History Month has been formally recognized across the United States for 50 years. In 1976, President Gerald Ford was the first president to declare it as a way to honor what he called, “the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

However, its foundation traces back to 1926 when historian and journalist Dr. Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week. Woodson chose the second week in February to capture the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, Feb. 12, and Frederick Douglass, Feb. 14 — two men crucially influential to Black history. The week was informally acknowledged for decades, with Ford ultimately recognizing the entire month.

It’s for education, activity and community

Schools use February as a chance to dive into age-appropriate lessons regarding Black history, contributions, and key personalities. Whether it’s elementary schools teaching about George Washington Carver’s peanut-based innovations or high schoolers learning about the hard-fought Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, educators take the opportunity to explore topics more in-depth than general lesson plans can fit.

The month-long acknowledgment isn’t limited to school settings. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History — the organization founded by Woodson in 1915 — suggests watching documentaries created by Black filmmakers, supporting local Black-owned businesses, and attending educational events.

Each year has a theme chosen by the founding organization

Black History Month is often used to reflect on the general work of notable people, but every year is actually given a specific theme determined by the ASALH. Beginning in 1926, Woodson believed that focusing on specific concepts could be more beneficial than thinking broadly. According to ASALH.org, the 2026 theme is, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”

The ASALH wrote, “We have never had more need to examine the role of Black History Month than we do when forces weary of democracy seek to use legislative means and book bans to excise Black history from America’s schools and public culture. Black history’s value is not its contribution to mainstream historical narratives, but its resonance in the lives of Black people.”

STEPPING OUT

Big game, big flavor

Score from kickoff to crunch time

By Karen Bloom

It’s the biggest sports day of the year — and a perfect excuse to throw a bash that’s almost as exciting as the game itself. The Super Bowl on Sunday isn’t just about touchdowns, commercials and the halftime show: it’s about friends, fun and food that’s worth a victory dance.

Sure, the game on the big screen is the main event, but let’s be honest — some of the best plays happen around the snack table. Wings, dips, even desserts are all part of the strategy to keep your fans happy (and maybe even sneak a second helping before halftime). When it comes to dessert, fuss-free is the way to go. An array of cookies, brownies and dessert bars will satisfy the sweet tooth. You can take your dessert table to the next level by icing your treats in team colors. Here’s your playbook for scoring big with game-day treats that’ll make your party a championship-worthy hit.

West Bank Wings

No football party is complete without a generous serving of wings. Try these Asianinspired chicken wings, with a spicy Creole twist.

• 3 pounds chicken wing pieces

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 2 teaspoons Creole Seasoning

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup cane syrup or molasses

• 1/4 cup ZATARAIN’S® Creole Mustard

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic

• 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• Chopped fresh cilantro

• Sesame seeds

Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss chicken wings with oil and Creole Seasoning in large bowl. Arrange wings in single layer on foil-lined large shallow baking pan.

Bake 35 minutes or until wings are cooked through and skin is crisp.

Mix remaining ingredients, except cilantro and sesame seeds, in large skillet. Bring to boil on high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer about 15 minutes or until sauce is reduced by a third and is a “syrup” consistency. Add wings; toss to coat with sauce. Transfer wings to serving

platter. Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Cajun Buffalo Wings

Here’s another zesty take on the footballwatching favorite.

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken wing pieces

• 1/2 cup any flavor Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce

• 1/3 cup ketchup

• 2 tsp. Cajun seasoned spice blend

Bake wings in foil-lined pan at 500 °F on lowest oven rack for 20 to 25 minutes until crispy, turning once.

Mix Buffalo Wings Sauce, ketchup and spice blend.

Toss wings in sauce to coat.

Tip: You may substitute 1/2 cup Red Hot Sauce mixed with 1/3 cup melted butter for the Wings Sauce.

Alternate cooking directions: Deep-fry at 375°F for 10 minutes or broil 6-inches from heat 15 to 20 minutes turning once.

Blazin’ Buffalo Potato Skins

This the ideal game day snack! Seriously, it’s a crowd pleaser.

• 3 pounds small russet potatoes

• Olive oil cooking spray

• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat or regular Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken

• 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce

• 1/2 cup chopped Blue Diamond Smokehouse

• Almonds

• 1/2 cup light sour cream

• 1/4 cup sliced green onion tops

Preheat oven to 450 F and line baking sheet with foil.

Rinse potatoes and pat dry; pierce with fork or sharp knife. Place in large microwave-safe bowl; cover and microwave high for 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft when gently squeezed. Remove and let cool slightly.

Cut in half and scoop out potato leaving 1/4inch rim of potato inside skin. Place on prepared baking sheet and spray both sides of potato skins liberally with cooking spray; bake for 15 minutes to crisp.

Billy Stritch and Friends celebrate Judy Garland

Sprinkle equal amounts of cheese into each skin. Stir together chicken and wing sauce and spoon over cheese. Top with almonds and bake for 5 minutes more. Add dollop of sour cream to each and sprinkle with green onions. Serve with and additional wing sauce, if desired. Makes 6-8 servings.

Sweet Chili Meatballs

Round out your lineup with this tasty addition to your game day spread.

• 1 pound lean ground turkey or ground beef

• 1/3 cup Japanese panko crumbs or bread crumbs

• ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 12 ounces Frank’s RedHot Sweet Chili Sauce, divided

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Mix ground meat, panko crumbs, cilantro, green onion, ginger, egg, salt and 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce. Form into one-inch meatballs. Place meatballs on lightly greased baking sheets.

Bake 20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Put meatballs in slow cooker or Dutch oven to keep warm, pour remaining sweet chili sauce over meatballs. Gently stir to coat meatballs and serve.

Bacon Avocado Dip

Game day requires guacamole. Try a new twist on the must-have dip.

• 1 large avocado, peeled and mashed

• 1/2 tomato, seeded and chopped

• 1/3 cup Blue Diamond Jalapeno Smokehouse

• Almonds, chopped

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 3 strips cooked bacon, roughly chopped

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• Salt and pepper, to taste

In small bowl, mix all ingredients. Serve with tortilla chips or other favorite dippers, such as carrots, bell peppers and broccoli.

Judy on TV! This concert shines a long-overdue spotlight on a unique chapter of Garland’s legendary career: her 1963–64 CBS television series. It’s a look at Garland’s iconic talent through the lens of her landmark 1963-64 weekly television broadcasts. Renowned entertainer and music director Billy Stritch leads this dazzling tribute that brings together a stellar lineup of jazz and Broadway favorites including acclaimed vocalists Gabrielle Stravelli and Nicolas King. The Judy Garland Show lasted only nine months and the star saw its cancellation as a devastating failure. Stritch sees it much differently, noting that the show’s 26 hours of concert material capture a crucial era of her life and legacy as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. These terrific performers revive the unforgettable music, intimate moments and sheer star power that defined the show.

Saturday, Feb. 7, 8 p.m. $58, $48, $38. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Feel the beat with Step Afrika!

The acclaimed dance company visits Hofstra University with a high-octane performance, Step Afrika! 101. Since its 1994 founding, Step Afrika! has been recognized as a cultural ambassador for this percussive dance tradition rooted in African American communities and historically linked to Black Greek-letter organizations. Their signature style fuses precise footwork and rhythmic movement with contemporary African dance, AfroBeats and popular music, in a powerful celebration of culture and community. Everyone is encouraged to clap, stomp, and join in calland-response moments that make the show feel as communal as it is electric. In keeping with Step Afrika!’s emphasis on service and community, it’s requested to bring non-perishable food items or basic toiletries to benefit the Hofstra Pantry and the Mary Brennan INN.

Sunday, Feb. 8, 3:30-5 p.m. Free admission. John Cranford Adams Playhouse, South Campus, Hempstead. For more information, visit hofstra.edu/academics/culturalcenter or call (516) 463-5669 or email hofculctr@hofstra.edu.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

FEB

6

First Friday: Under Glass

Explore the beauty and remarkable history of Planting Fields

historic Camellia House. Join Sustainability Coordinator Rebecca Slagle, and Archivist Marie Penny tour-goers for a tour of a living legacy, discovering the Coe family’s passion for horticulture through a historic collection of more than 200 blooming camellias. Designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers Firm, the Camellia House stands as one of northeast’s most treasured architectural and horticultural gems. Learn about the English traditions of growing camellias under glass, uncover the fascinating design elements and evolution of the planthouse, and hear the story of the fire that once threatened this extraordinary collection, as well as the efforts that saved it. $25.

• Where: Camellia House. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: 10-11 a.m.

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

FEB

7

Winter Forest Walk

Join naturalist Virginal Dankel for an interactive winter stroll across the Nassau County Museum of Art grounds. During this seasonal walk, participants can expand their knowledge of the natural world and strengthen their powers of observation. Adults only. $20, $10 members. Registration required.

• Where: Manes Education Center, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Children’s concert

The Northwinds Symphonic Band visits Hempstead House for an afternoon of music and fun for families with children of all ages. Conductors Helen P. Bauer and Brandon Bromsey have put together a program designed to engage young listeners and aspiring young musicians. The program includes well-known selections from “The Sound of Musi” and a medley of music from Disney movies. Band members introduce and demonstrate their instruments, and the children in attendance will be given the opportunity to take the podium as guest conductors! $10, $5 children.

Where: Hempstead House, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point Time: 1-2:30 p.m.

Contact:

‘So don’t stop me now’

Harbor

• Time: 8-10 p.m.

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

Winter’s Heartbeat

Explore Sands Point Preserve’s natural environment on a guided tour. Examine the preserve’s unique physical features and wildlife, as well as critical conservation issues and helpful practices to create a healthy, sustainable environment.

Environmental educator Hildur Palsdottir engages participants on a guided winter walk to explore the quiet but active life of the season. Look for animal tracks, signs of winter survival, and the subtle movements that reveal how wildlife stays active even in the coldest months. Bring your Valentine — whether that’s a partner, family member, friend, your four-legged walking companion, or simply yourself! Perfect for all ages, this walk offers a refreshing, engaging way to connect with nature and experience the hidden heartbeat of winter. Meet at Castle Gould’s Clock Tower. $15, $10 members; children $5, free for members.

• Time: 8 p.m.

Queen-mania rolls on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages with an unforgettable concert experience. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music. The carefully curated setlist featuring Queen’s best-loved songs, like “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” and “Radio Ga Ga,” along with lesser known tracks. And of course, no Queen tribute concert would be complete without classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more.

sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901

FEB

8

Princess Adventure Families can step into a real-life storybook on a journey through the castle at Sands Point Preserve on a magical adventure! Your little royal will be welcomed by two of their favorite princesses and begin their quest by creating a sparkling friendship bracelet. Next, venture into the castle library, where Princess Beauty and her Prince will challenge your storybook knowledge with a lively and interactive guessing game. Continue onward to the grand ballroom, where Rapunzel and Eugene will lead you in the enchanting Kingdom Dance. The adventure concludes with the Snow Sisters where you will “Let It Go” and make magical snow fall inside and build a snowman to take home. Tickets are limited. $70 per child.

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: Session One, 11:30 a.m.; Session Two, 11:45 a.m.; Session Three, noon; Session Four, 12:15 p.m.

• Contact: sandspointpreserve conservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901

FEB

10

Board meeting

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to attend its upcoming board meeting.

• Where: 54 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 624-6300

FEB

12

Galentine’s Shopping Night

Participate in the season of love with at Galentine’s Shopping Night at Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay. Enjoy a glass of wine, a blind date with a book, and 15 percent off your entire purchase.

• Where: 17 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay

• Time: 5-7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 636-5550

FEB

14

Camillia Festival

Planting Fields welcomes all to its annual winter festival. Experience the season’s most enchanting sight: over 200 camellia varieties in full bloom! Long celebrated for their elegance and color, these stunning flowers offer the perfect

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

escape from the winter blues. This multi-sensory festival spans both the Main House and Camellia Greenhouse, with something for every visitor. Talented poets craft personalized, one-of-a-kind poems. View the Coe Family camellia plate display: Explore the historic dining room adorned with the family’s rare and exquisite camellia plates, a glimpse into the estate-era elegance, with curated tea tastings, workshops and more. Plus guided tours of the Camillia Greenhouse. Tickets required.

• Where: Main House and Camillia Greenhouse, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: Sessions from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.; also Feb. 15

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

Valentine’s Evening with Jimmy Webb

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts a special benefit concert. Renowned songwriter-composersinger Jimmy Webb warms everyone up with a performance of his legendary hits, followed by a champagne and dessert reception, also exclusive evening access to the magnificent” Real, Surreal, Photoreal” exhibit. Limited availability, RSVP soon. $250 per person.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: 10-11:30 a.m.

• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901

FEB

22

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

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

Having an event?

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

Public Notices

Notice is hereby given that I shall, commencing on February 17, 2026, sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on real estate herein-after described, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party-ininterest in such real estate shall pay to the County Treasurer by February 12, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges, against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 per cent per six month’s period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 17, 2026 lien sale, Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny. gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February, 2026 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

The liens are for arrears of School District taxes for the year 2024 - 2025 and/or County, Town, and Special District taxes for the year 2025. The following is a partial listing of the real estate located in school district number(s) 8, 9 in the Town of Oyster Bay only, upon which tax liens are to be sold, with a brief description of the same by reference to the County Land and Tax Map, the name of the owner or occupant as the same appears on the 2024/2025 tentative assessment roll, and the total amount of such unpaid taxes.

ImpoRTanT

THE NAMES OF OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2024/2025 TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER. Town of oYsTeR BaY sCHooL:8

and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldier’s and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts.

However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), 12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et. seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.

The rate of interest and penalty which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten percent of the amount from which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety percent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety percent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten percent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase be of no further effect.

Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1.The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2.The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3.The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4.If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made, in connection with, said bid shall be forfeited.

This list includes only tax liens on real estate located in Town of Hempstead. Such other tax liens on real estate are advertised as follows:

Public Notices

Continued from previous page

1022

NASSAU

Dist 2010

Dist 2011

Dist 2122

1024

1025

1026

1027

1028

Dist 1029

Dist 1030

Dist 1031

Dist 1201

Dist 1205

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

YORK POST

NASSAU OBSERVER

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

BEACH HERALD

BEACH TRIBUNE NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

ISLAND PARK TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

EAST MEADOW HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Town of norTh hempsTead

Dist 2001

Dist 2002

Dist 2003

Dist 2004

Dist 2005

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

BNH

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROSLYN NEWS TIMES

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST Dist 2006

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS Dist 2007

GREAT NECK NEWS RECORD

JEWISH STAR

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Dist 2301

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 2315

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

Town of oysTer Bay

Dist 3001

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 3002

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEA CLIFF - GLEN HEAD HERALD

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Dist 3003

Dist 3004

Dist 3006

Dist 3008

Dist 3009

Dist 3011

Dist 3012

Dist 3013

Dist 3014

Dist 3015

Dist 3017

Dist 3018

NEW YORK POST Dist 3020

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

Dist 3021

Dist 3022

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - FARMINGDALE

THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3023

MASSAPEQUA POST

MID-ISLAND TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - N. MASSAPEQUA

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

Dist 3024

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEA CLIFF - GLEN HEAD HERALD

Dist 3203

Dist 3306

LEGAL NOTICE

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

HICKSVILLE/LEVITTOWN TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - N. MASSAPEQUA

THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3019

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

CiTy of Glen Cove Dist 4005

GLEN COVE HERALD GAZETTE

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

CiTy of lonG BeaCh

Dist 5028

LONG BEACH HERALD LONG BEACH TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE NEW YORK POST

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities.

Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in braille, large print, audio tape other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 13715.

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROSLYN NEWS TIMES

MASSAPEQUA POST

New York Surrogate’s Court Accounting Citation SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: Grassi Advisory Group, Inc. Office of the NYS Attorney General Jasper Surety Elizabeth Fey Sita Fey Erica Fey any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-atlaw and next-of-kin of the said Nathanial Johnson Jr. , deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained

A petition having been duly filed by Public Administrator of Nassau County, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501. YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court,

Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on February 25th, 2026, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Public Administrator of Nassau County, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Nathanial Johnson Jr, should not be judicially settled.

[X] Further relief sought (if any):

1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;

2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $ 10,230.03 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 2,307.61 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);

3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 26,603.28 as and for legal fees and $ 2,933.92 as and for disbursements, for a total of $29,537.20, of which $ 2,037.20 has been paid and $ 27,500.00 is unpaid;

4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC

Dated: February 05, 2026

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER MINEOLA, NEW YORK

1334638

in the amount of $ 8,560.00 of which $ 2,560.00 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid; 5. Releasing and discharging the surety; 6. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Nathanial Johnson, Jr., decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship; 7. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper Dated, Attested, and Sealed, December 22, 2025 (Seal)

HON. Rhonda E. Fischer

Surrogate s/ Debra Keller Leimbach Chief Clerk

Signature of Attorney

Richard T. Kerins, Esq.

Print Name of Attorney Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC

Firm Name (516) 538-1111

Telephone 254 Nassau Boulevard South, Garden City South, New York 11530

Address

Email (optional)

NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or petitioner’s attorney. 157838

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Sale

Supreme Court: Nassau County Point 62 LLC v Carol Gordon et al. Defts Index 605518/2022 Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered September 12, 2023 I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on February 26, 2026 at 2:00 pm premises known as School District 306 a/k/a BA-6, Section 66, Block 124, Lot 61, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 25% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing

Public Notices

cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.

Ronald J Ferraro, Esq., Referee 157983

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, JOVIA FINANCIAL

CREDIT UNION F/K/A NASSAU EDUCATORS

FEDERAL CREDIT

UNION, Plaintiff, vs. JOSEPH W. BUFFA, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Other Relief duly entered on April 4, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 5 Hilltop Drive, Bayville, NY 11709. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Bayville, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 29, Block 12 and Lots 67, 68 and 69. Approximate amount of judgment is $356,936.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of filed Judgment Index #617497/2022.

Keith Lavallee, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File

No.: 231850-1 157969

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, STORMFIELD CAPITAL FUNDING I, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. 63 MILL RIVER ROAD, LLC

A/K/A 63 MILL RIVER ROAD LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order for Reformation, Confirming Referee’s Report of Amount Due and for Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 16, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 63 Mill River Road, Upper Brookville, NY 11771 a/k/a 63 Mill River Road, Glen Head, NY 11545. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Upper Brookville, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 24, Block B and Lot 893, as well as all personal property of Defendant as identified in that certain Consolidation, Extension, Spreader and Modification Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2022, and recorded on January 2, 2023 in Book M, Volume 46996, Page 950, and that certain Building Loan Mortgage, Assignment of Rents, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing, dated as of November 15, 2022, and recorded on January 20, 2023, in Book M, Volume

47021, Page 307, and excluding any funds held by Plaintiff in any reserve, escrow, or suspense fund and excluding any funds held by Plaintiff in any cash management account. Approximate amount of judgment is $2,578,897.79 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #621084/2023.

Melvyn Roth, Esq., Referee

Polsinelli PC, Aaron P. Davis, Esq., 600 Third Avenue, 42nd Floor, New York, New York 10016, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157967

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 48848, Pltf. vs. 19 TIFFANY RD HOMES HOUSE 58 INC., et al, Defts. Index #600544/25. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Jan. 9, 2026, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 19 Tiffany Road, Oyster Bay, Ny 11771 a/k/a Section 26, Block A, Lots 752 & 753. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,267,502.77 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.” SCOTT H. SILLER, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 79-37 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. File No. LF-570 - #102749 158109

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Nassau Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, National Association (formerly known as Norwest Bank Minnesota, National Association), not in its individual or banking capacity, but solely in its capacity as Trustee for the Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust, Series 2006-WMC 1, Plaintiff AGAINST David O’Brien a/k/a David C. OBrien, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 22, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 54 Cocks Lane, Locust Valley, NY 11560. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 29, BLOCK: 1, LOT: 24. Approximate amount of judgmen t is $1,104,084.42 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 611343/2019. For sale information, please visit XOME at www.XOME.com or call 844-400-9663. Brian Carmody, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-082086-F01 88634 158163

DTHE GREAT BOOK GuRu

Estate in disarray

ear Great Book Guru, It’s a very cold snowy day as I’m writing to you and I know more days like this lie ahead so please recommend a book that will totally absorb me. A mystery perhaps that will keep me guessing would be great.

Surrounded by Snow

Dear Surrounded by Snow, I have the perfect book for you: “The Widow” by John Grisham. Simon Latch is a small-town lawyer in rural Virginia when the case of a lifetime walks in the door of his rather shabby office.

ANN DIPIETRO

cated, and Simon offers to take it on with a hefty hourly rate built in. When Eleanor demands more and more of his time, he wonders if it is all worth it. Of course it is, he convinces himself –when she dies the payoff will be tremendous. Throughout the novel, we meet a cadre of fascinating characters - his law secretary Matilda, his estranged wife Paula, his gambling buddies, fellow lawyers all eager to cash in too, and, most troubling, the menacing stepsons.

Eleanor Barnett is an elderly widow who claims her husband amassed a fortune in Coca Cola and Walmart stocks. Dead ten years, he had two sons he was estranged from but aware of this possible windfall. The estate is very compli-

When a very drunk Eleanor is involved in a car accident, Simon represents her and a multitude of problems arise including …. a murder charge. How will he extricate himself now?

Would you like to ask the Great Book Guru for a book suggestion? Contact her at annmdipietro@gmail.com.

NEws BRiEf

Mike LiPetri announces candidacy for CD3

Former New York State Assemblyman Mike LiPetri announced his campaign for New York’s 3rd Congressional District on Wednesday. The 35-year old Farmingdale native, who lost to Tom Suozzi in the 2024 election by two percent, declared his intention to run in a statement which highlighted his support for President Donald Trump.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans have delivered no tax on tips, social security, overtime, and we’ve raised the SALT tax cap directly helping hardworking New Yorkers,” the statement by LiPetri read. “Flipping this seat and stopping the Mamdani Madness and lawlessness from spreading to Long Island is critical. If you want safe streets, more money in your pockets, and common sense over chaos, Vote Republican Mike LiPetri for Congress in November.”

LiPetri, who previously ran on a proTrump, pro-business and anti-crime platform, has already been endorsed by the president. Nassau County Republican leaders including Bruce Blakeman and Joe Cairo have also announced their support.

Trump wrote on Truth Social:

“It is my Great Honor to endorse MAGA Warrior, Mike LiPetri, who is running to represent the fantastic peo -

ple of New York’s 3rd Congressional District...

Mike LiPetri... is a very successful Attorney and former New York State Assemblyman, who has dedicated his life to serving his Community. As your next Congressman, Mike will fight tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Advance American Energy DOMINANCE, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Support our Military, Veterans, and Police, Defend our always under siege Second Amendment, and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH....”

The political distraction industry — and its cost

Something’s wrong. It’s hard to put a finger on it. We live in a political world, and something about the way that world slides between the foreground and the background of daily life just seems off — not dramatic, not mysterious, just persistently wrong.

That unease has a source.

Contemporary politics now functions within what can fairly be called a political distraction industry. Large, highprofile controversies generate a media fog that draws our attention toward whatever is loudest or most immediate, while steadily pulling our focus away from decisions that more directly shape our lives.

In any given week, we may be urged to fixate on the latest scandal, to listen to conflicting stories about exploding motorboats off the coast of South America, to dissect executive orders that change little in practice, to scroll through a flood of presidential social media posts, or to follow lawsuits filed theatrically against judges and officials with no realistic chance of success.

Each story is framed as urgent. Each demands our attention. It’s hard to keep up, and it’s harder to see through the fog of information to discern things that may be far more important.

This isn’t an accident. Distraction has become a strategy.

The incentives aren’t difficult to see. Media outlets compete in an overcrowded attention economy. Social media platforms reward speed, outrage and repetition. Political fundraising thrives on alarm. Issues and decisions are boiled down to simplistic either/or choices. Complexity doesn’t travel well. The most consequential changes tend to arrive quietly, already dressed as routine.

W here every problem is a ‘crisis,’ and every disagreement ‘unprecedented.’

The result is a loss of perspective. Minor controversies swell into national emergencies, while decisions affecting housing costs, public education, health care access, environmental protections and local governance are made quietly. We debate the tone of a speech while overlooking the budget it obscures. We argue about personalities while the machinery of government is adjusted — often in ways that prove difficult to reverse.

It’s no secret: a distracted public is easier to manage than an attentive one. Constant motion prevents sustained

scrutiny. Constant conflict fragments potential coalitions. Attention jumps from flare to flare, rarely lingering long enough for consideration of the most basic questions: What has actually changed? Who benefits? What precedent has just been set? Distraction works in part because it enlists us. We share the clips, repost the provocations, argue over headlines designed to provoke argument. It feels like engagement, but reaction isn’t the same as agency, and outrage — however understandable — doesn’t substitute for influence. Even our political vocabulary has been thinned by overuse. Everything is a “crisis.” Every disagreement is “unprecedented.” When every day is framed as an emergency, real emergencies become harder to recognize. Fatigue follows. People disengage — not because they don’t care, but because constant alarm is mentally exhausting. There is no need to tune out — but there is a need to slow down. When a story breaks, a few stubborn questions help restore a sense of scale: Does this materially change how power is exercised? Does it affect people’s rights, safety, or economic security? Will it still matter a year from now? If not, it may be worth keeping an eye on — but not

chasing.

The normalization of continuous distraction carries a cost most of us have experienced without quite naming it. The news and social media flood the airwaves with stories and endless commentary about the latest nasty thing the president has said about a celebrity — who insulted whom, who clapped back. Meanwhile, we hear only a sidebar about a court decision that permits the administration to empower ICE agents to arrest U.S. citizens as though they were undocumented immigrants, the decision mentioned only briefly before disappearing from coverage. One story dominates our attention for days; the other slips past almost unnoticed. Again, the imbalance is not accidental. Distraction isn’t merely noise, but leverage. The point is not to stop us from seeing anything at all, but to keep us looking in the wrong direction long enough for other, potentially more consequential, decisions to settle into place. By the time our attention shifts back, the argument is over, the paperwork is filed and the change is treated as a fact rather than a choice. What is lost is not awareness, but the chance to intervene at the moment when our scrutiny might have made a difference.

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

We can make our school cafeterias safer

In recent years, we’ve seen stories on the news of everyday heroes who have saved the lives of choking children. There have been incidents all over Long Island, from Elmont to East Setauket, yet New York does not currently require cafeteria monitors to be certified in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the Heimlich maneuver.

ALEXIS WEIK

My new bill, SS6127A, known as Stella’s Law, would correct this oversight. The legislation is named in honor of Stella Tsimis, a teacher’s aide in the Connetquot school district who, in February 2023, saved the life of a 7-year-old boy in the school cafeteria by performing the Heimlich maneuver on him while he

was choking.

Tsimis received the New York State Liberty Medal for saving the boy’s life.

The Liberty Medal is the highest civilian honor awarded by New York state, and is presented only for extraordinary, heroic and life-saving acts.

STsimis’s actions that day highlighted the need for all adult cafeteria monitors in school cafeterias to be trained in and hold current certifications for first aid, CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, to help ensure the safety of the children who eat there. Requiring the First Aid for Choking poster to be displayed in all school eating areas further supports this goal by providing clear, life-saving instructions that can be followed in an emergency.

such posters, but it’s important for teachers, monitors and staff to be able to successfully intervene in an emergency.

taffs need to be trained in first aid for choking and the Heimlich maneuver.

Many rescuers have learned the Heimlich maneuver in school health classes, workplace training or even from

Stella’s Law would ensure that personnel are trained, and that informative posters showing the Heimlich maneuver are displayed where students are at the greatest risk of choking. The instructional posters help make sure students are not fearful or afraid if a choking emergency occurs, because they understand this life-saving technique.

There are many resources available in your community. Organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association hold classes to help people be prepared for such emergencies. We hosted our first CPR-Heimlich maneuver training in cooperation with the West Babylon Fire Department on Jan. 24.

In 2024, a Patchogue-Medford math

teacher, Chris Schiefer, came to the rescue of one of his students. Schiefer noticed the student choking on a gumball and quickly went into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver and helping to dislodge the obstruction. After making sure the student saw the nurse to confirm he was all right, Schiefer turned the incident into a learning opportunity by teaching his students about the Heimlich maneuver and pointing out a chart on the wall demonstrating how to handle a choking incident.

This was a great effort made by a responsible educator, but we should have standard training in place, as well as step-by-step signage for school staff, so they can be frontline administrators of these life-saving techniques.

Please contact your local school district, state senator or Assembly member and encourage them to support Stella’s Law, and to make our schools safer.

Alexis Weik represents the 8th State Senate District.

continuous dishave it. the aircommenthe celebrity — back. sidebar permits the agents they the before story the accidental. but us keep long conplace. back, paperwork is fact is not intervene might of UniCollege February 5, 2026 — OYSTER

OYSTER BAY

Established 1899

Incorporating the Oyster Bay Guardian in 2010

Will Sheeline Senior Reporter

luke Feeney Reporter

■ Rhonda Glickman Vice President - Sales

■ oFFice

2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax:

Out of practice, but not out of resolve

last week, for the first time in three years, Long Island was forcefully reminded that winter isn’t just a suggestion. The Jan. 25 snowstorm dumped more than a foot of snow, whipped it around with high winds and then sealed it in place with a deep freeze, making it the most significant storm in these parts since Jan. 29, 2022. For a region that had grown used to mild winters and more rain than snow, it was a rude, icy wake-up call.

Within hours, schools and businesses were closed, and familiar streets transformed from wet pavement to skating rinks masquerading as thoroughfares.

Snow shovels were unearthed from garages, boots were rediscovered in the backs of closets and many residents wondered, “Wait, how do we do this again?”

The storm highlighted the dedication of emergency workers and the importance of preparation, but it also revealed something else: After a few relatively snow-free winters, Long Island was a little out of practice.

Emergency crews, plow drivers, sanitation workers, police officers, EMS personnel and other essential workers put in long hours in harsh and dangerous conditions. Their efforts kept major roadways passable and ensured that critical services remained available. These people don’t get snow days, and Long Island is better off because of it.

Elected officials also moved quickly. Roads were treated with pre-storm brine to prevent ice from bonding to

letters

Our foreign policy ‘is heading in the wrong direction’

To the Editor:

I read Peter King’s opinion piece last week, “What did Trump gain by badmouthing Denmark?” about the administration’s various foreign policy accomplishments and failures during the first year of President Trump’s second term. I agree that the approach that’s being taken in regard to Greenland is not wise. Our current treaty with Denmark gives the United States great leeway for the use of Greenland’s territory for U.S. bases in the defense of the U.S. and our NATO allies.

I feel that our foreign policy in general is heading in the wrong direction. The “America First” policy that’s being promoted by the administration is doing great damage to our peaceful relationships around the world. We may have the greatest military in modern history, but we live in a complex world. We need to preserve NATO and make sure that treaties established at the end of World War II remain

pavement. Hundreds of plows were deployed across towns and villages. Gov. Kathy Hochul sent more than 100 members of the National Guard to assist with snow removal, including on major parkways that thousands of drivers rely on every day.

County Executives Bruce Blakeman and Ed Romaine, in Nassau and Suffolk, respectively, declared states of emergency, helping streamline coordination and resources.

Many residents noticed and appreciated responders’ efforts. Social media was filled with thank-yous to plow drivers and sanitation crews, often described as “the backbone of the operation.” Credit where it’s due: Without their efforts, the storm’s aftermath would have been far worse.

Still, once the snow stopped falling, patience began to melt, unlike the ice. Complaints poured in about side streets that weren’t plowed quickly enough, leaving cars stuck and neighbors frustrated as snow hardened and became virtually unmovable. In some areas, plows managed little more than a single narrow lane, pushing snow into piles that quickly froze into what might as well have been concrete barriers.

The storm’s heavy mix of snow and sleet didn’t help. Parked cars made matters worse. Town officials, including in Oyster Bay, pointed to vehicles left on streets despite parking restrictions as a major obstacle to proper plowing. And then there was the Long Island tradition of shoveling snow into the street

— illegal, counterproductive and, in Nassau County, potentially a $200 mistake.

All of this slowed cleanup, especially when you consider the scale of the task. The Town of Hempstead alone is responsible for clearing roughly 1,200 miles of roadway. That’s not a quick lap around the block — it’s a marathon in snow boots.

Snow removal is a team sport. Municipalities can plan routes, deploy equipment and send alerts, but residents have to do their part, moving vehicles, following restrictions, staying informed and resisting the urge to dump snow where plows just cleared it.

After three quiet winters, Long Island’s collective snow-day muscle memory had weakened. The key takeaway from Jan. 25 is that the storm exposed gaps while providing a muchneeded refresher. Main roads were cleared. Most neighborhoods were eventually serviced. Emergency operations held up under pressure. With better coordination, clearer communication and stronger public cooperation, the next response can be even smoother. Snowstorms on Long Island are inevitable, and we should be ready for them. If everyone — from county and state governments to towns, villages, businesses and residents — gets back in practice, the next big storm can be met not with surprise and frustration, but with confidence, coordination and maybe even a little less slip-sliding around.

opInIons

New Yorkers are at the breaking point

For many New Yorkers, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address felt less like a progress report and more like an SOS — a distress signal from a state buckling under the crushing weight of an affordability crisis.

Responses to my recent constituent survey told the same sad story: New York has become wildly unaffordable for almost everyone. Over and over, respondents complained about soaring housing costs, escalating school taxes, over-the-top utility bills and the never-ending list of state fees as the reasons they’re falling behind.

Yet our detached governor spoke about this crisis as though it mysteriously fell from thin air — an economic disaster with no one to blame, rather than the result of years of poor policy decisions made by her administration and Albany Democrats. What’s worse, her so-called “solutions” actually double down on those bad ideas. Her latest proposals would pile on more costs while conveniently sidestepping her very policies that make

Letters

strong. We need cooperation, not condemnation of friends.

I agree that we need secure and safe borders, and those who illegally entered our country should be dealt with through our justice system. But I hope that the constant rhetoric we see daily in our news media starts to abate, and that cooler heads prevail. We need the direction of our politics, and our policies, to return to a sense of normalcy.

JeROMe I. ROSeN Hewlett

everyday life here so expensive to begin with.

I read these surveys and could feel the frustration. New Yorkers are at a breaking point. Rising costs are pushing families to the edge, and the anxiety is real, widespread and impossible to ignore.

Unfortunately, Hochul is engaging in a highstakes shell game, shuffling the financial burden from one group of residents to another. Some get a giveaway, and everyone else gets the bill.

Take her child care proposal. Under the current plan, the state would fully fund the first two years of New York City’s child care program for 2-year-olds and expand funding for the city’s 3-K program, while families across the rest of the state get nothing. That doesn’t fix affordability statewide. It tilts the scales toward the city and forces families from Buffalo to Brookhaven to pay for benefits their children will never see.

and are somehow stuck subsidizing tax breaks for vehicles they don’t own. How is that fair?

What is glaringly absent is any proposal to lower taxes and energy costs for all New Yorkers. We could start by rolling back costly green energy mandates and eliminating the energy delivery fees and taxes that drive up utility bills. That would be an equitable first step that delivers the greatest benefit to the most New Yorkers, but it would also ruffle some special-interest feathers.

I f the governor wants to talk about affordability, it can’t just be lip service.

And even when viable solutions are within reach, they are intentionally stalled for far too long. Take for example the much-heralded no-tax-ontips. While I’m glad Hochul embraced the idea, I proposed this common-sense bill 16 months ago, because our serviceindustry workers needed immediate, tangible relief. If it’s good policy now, why wasn’t it good policy then? What took so long?

For New Yorkers, it’s death by a thousand cuts. It’s not one bill that breaks a family budget, but the dozens that pile up month after month: utility fees and delivery charges; auto and homeowners’ insurance hikes; fare hikes on the Long Island Rail Road; higher subway and bus fares; rising bridge and tunnel tolls; congestion pricing in Manhattan; DMV vehicle and registration fees; and permits and licensing fees for small businesses. And don’t forget that every vendor, contractor and business has to charge you more because the state is charging them more. Unfortunately, it appears we’re all on the governor’s hamster wheel together, and you can’t get off unless you move to another state — and New Yorkers are moving out of state in historic numbers.

The state plays the same charade with its energy policies. Keeping the gas tax in place while eliminating the sales tax on electric-vehicle charging helps just a narrow sliver of New Yorkers. Millions of drivers who rely on gaspowered vehicles get no relief at all,

You get the playbook by now. Dump the burden on middle-class households and ask them to pay more to prop up state-funded programs that offer them nothing in return. Tell taxpayers it’s to save the planet, erase traffic or cure the common cold, and then vilify anyone who dares to complain.

Framework by Mallory Wilson

We’re not asking for a handout — we’re demanding a fair shot, free from the bureaucracy that makes everyday life so expensive. If Hochul wants to talk about affordability, it can’t just be lip service. It means getting government out of the way. Real reform means lower monthly bills, higher paychecks and enough breathing room to cover life’s basics. Because for countless families across New York, there’s no wiggle room. They’re already at the breaking point.

Jack Martins represents the 7th State Senate District.

1st Place

2nd Place Vivian

3rd Place Myla Borucke

1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place

Eileen Heimer

1st Place

Vivian