Rockville Centre Herald 04-09-2026

Courtesy Lauren Marquardt

Though she isn’t a runner, Lauren Marquardt, 21, took part in the half marathon in New York City on March 15, in support of the Mary Ruchalski Foundation.

Local author Beck chronicles

M.J. experience

By KYLE DENSON Intern

Dan Beck, a 43-year resident of Rockville Centre, is offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the global operation behind Michael Jackson’s career in a new memoir tracing his time working with the King of Pop.

Beck, a longtime music industry executive, shared his experiences as Jackson’s direct marketing contact at Epic Records in “You’ve Got Michael: Living Through HIStory,” which was released last October. The 289page memoir explores the inner workings of the music business as Jackson’s career reached a global scale.

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Eight years after losing her best friend to cancer, Lauren Marquardt still finds meaning in the number 11, and has turned a childhood friendship formed on Rockville Centre playing fields into a lifelong promise to “be like Mary.” Marquardt met Mary Ruchalski when they were both 9, and on basketball courts, lacrosse fields and softball diamonds, they grew, side by side, their friendship quickly expanding beyond sports. Despite attending separate schools, Ruchalski at St. Agnes and Maquardt at Hewitt Elementary, they were the closest of friends.

“I coached those little girls when they were young in basketball,” Eugene Marquardt, Lau-

ren’s father, recalled. “Her connection with her friend, it’s kind of transcendent. It’s amazing.”

Changes came in sixth grade, when Ruchalski was diagnosed with cancer. At an age when most children are just beginning to find themselves, Marquardt said, she was forced to confront something much bigger — an experience that helped shape her faith.

“It was definitely really hard to wrap my head around the fact that this was happening at such a young age,” she said. “That’s where my faith really started to kick in as well, because you can’t control these emotions by yourself.”

While Ruchalski underwent treatment,

Beck, 76, said the project grew organically from personal notes he began keeping while working with Jackson from 1991 to 1996, during a period when the superstar was already a global phenomenon, but he never intended to turn them into a book.

“I really started writing — not intentionally as a book at the time,” Beck said. “I just found it extraordinary how big his career was globally.”

Beck said he often was present for high-level meetings involving Michael Jackson and other major artists, such as members of the rock band The Clash, Cyndi Lauper, Luther Vandross and Pearl Jam, which led him to document detailed notes and reflections.

While his time working with Jackson coincided with intense public scrutiny — including a 1993 allegation of sexual abuse made by 13-year-old Jordan Chandler resulting the following year in a civil settlement of $23 million with no admission of wrongdoing — Beck said he chose not to focus his memoir on those events.

Instead, he concentrated on the business side of working with an artist of Jackson’s global stature.

“I didn’t want to write a salacious or sensational type of book,” he said. “I really wanted to write about the business circumstances of working with an artist of that kind of global impact.”

Beck chronicled his experi-

CoNTiNued oN page 17

Egg-citing event welcomes young hunters

The Rockville Centre Recreation Department hosted its annual Spring Egg Hunt a week before Easter, welcoming local families for a festive morning of seasonal fun.

Designed for children in third grade and younger, the event featured multiple timed sessions, allowing participants to rotate through the activities in an organized and comfortable setting.

The egg hunt took place inside the recreation center’s gymnasium, where children eagerly searched for colorful eggs spread throughout the space. The setup provided a lively and engaging environment, with plenty of room for participants to move around while keeping the focus on the excitement of the hunt.

Village officials were also on hand to take part in the festivities, including Mayor Francis X. Murray and Deputy Mayor Kathleen Baxley, who joined families in celebrating the community tradition.

A highlight of the morning was a visit from “Little Bunny Cottontail,” who greeted families and posed for photos with children. The photo opportunities added to the celebratory atmosphere, giving families a chance to capture keepsake moments during the event.

The Spring Egg Hunt once again served as a well-attended community event, offering a fun, organized and family-friendly way for Rockville Centre residents to celebrate the arrival of spring.

GLYNN FUNERAL HOME

Crime watCh

aCCidents

On April 2, an oversized truck pulling an excavator on a trailer made a wrong turn onto North Centre Avenue, damaging three traffic lights before becoming wedged under the LIRR overpass. All traffic lights were quickly repaired, and the driver was issued multiple summonses.

On April 4, a South Hempstead resident was crossing North Centre Avenue near Maine Avenue when she was struck by a car, causing serious but non-fatal injuries.

homiCide (natural)

On March 31, a 67-year-old resident of Ongley Street was discovered deceased in his apartment.

larCeny

On March 30, a Central Islip resident reported money was stolen from her glove compartment while her vehicle was parked on Merrick Road.

On April 3, an Island Park resident re-

ported that his bicycle was stolen after he left it unlocked in front of Panera on Merrick Road.

missing person

On April 4, Rockville Centre police officers located an elderly male who was missing from his Amityville residence. The missing person was transported to a hospital as a precaution and reunited with his family.

unusual inCidents

On March 30, a Canterbury Road resident reported she was the victim of a phone scam in which a caller directed her to withdraw funds from her accounts and deposit them into the scammer’s account.

On March 31, a Columbia Road resident reported someone altered a check he placed in the mail.

arrest

On April 5, Owen Turner, of San Diego, was arrested and charged with assault after he was involved in a fight outside of a North Village Avenue bar.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Fire watCh

The Rockville Centre Fire Department is always looking for help in serving our community. If you live here or in any one of the adjacent communities and are interested in joining or just

March 29 – April 5

General Alarms – 10

Still Alarms – 6

Rescue – 3

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 55

Mutual Aid Fire – 3

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 1

Total – 78

have questions, please visit any firehouse on Sunday mornings and speak with one of the officers or call (516) 6789320. For emergencies dial 911 or (516) 766-0400.

Year To Date

General Alarms – 153

Still Alarms – 79

Rescue – 58

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 661

Mutual Aid Fire – 29

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 4

Total – 984

Fire department preps for leadership vote

Members of the Rockville Centre Fire Department will head to the polls on April 9 to vote on the leadership of their department, including chief of department, first assistant chief, second assistant chief, and the department’s representative to the 4th Battalion Fire District.

Anthony “Tony” Rugolo is seeking a second term as chief of department. Rugolo has served as second assistant chief and first assistant chief and has received unanimous endorsement from Woodland Engine Company No. 4. A member of the company since 1984, Rugolo has held positions including financial secretary, second and first lieutenant, and captain, stepping in again as captain in 2016 when the company needed leadership.

Rugolo joined the chiefs’ office in 2021 and comes from a family with deep fire service roots. He is a retired paid firefighter from Garden City and his father was an active member of Live Oak Engine Co. No. 1. His brother, Joe, is a three-term captain of Woodland Engine Co. No. 4 and is currently a senior warden on the Fire Department Council, and his son, Anthony, serves as captain for Woodland and is a career firefighter with the FDNY.

Rugolo and his wife of 37 years, Eileen, have three children: Joe, an orthopedic physician assistant, and daughters Christina and Megan, both

special education teachers.

Seeking a second term as first assistant chief is Patrick Healey, who has received unanimous support from Eureka Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company No. 1. A lifelong Rockville Centre resident, Healey has been a member of Eureka for 16 years and has served as second lieutenant, first lieutenant, and captain.

Healy has participated in multiple

committees, including the new truck committee, served as chief chauffeur, and works closely with the department’s Board of Instruction. Healey also serves as a director of Eureka’s corporation and works as a lineman for the Village of Freeport Electric Department.

Brian O’Toole is running unopposed for a second term as second assistant chief with unanimous support from

Reliance Hose Company No. 3. O’Toole has focused on modernizing department operations, including moving the department to the National Emergency Response Information System and developing a streamlined officer application process for fire school registration.

O’Toole serves alongside his wife Liz and their three children, balancing leadership, family, and community commitment. He credits Rugolo and Healey for setting the tone and guiding departmental progress.

Running unopposed for fourth battalion delegate is former Chief Mark Murray. Murray served as chief of department from 2009 to 2011 and is seeking his sixth term as fourth battalion district delegate, a position he was first elected to in 2011.

Murray also served as chairman of the 4th Battalion Fire District from 2021 to 2023.

The volunteer Rockville Centre Fire Department provides the village’s primary emergency services under an annual contract. Members vote internally for chiefs and other officers, but the election serves as a nomination submitted to Mayor Francis X. Murray and the Board of Trustees, who formally appoint them. Officers will be sworn in by the mayor and board at the fire council meeting on April 21.

–Brian Kacharaba

ELIZABETH POIROT

WEST HEMPSTEAD Senior Lacrosse

ONE OF NASSAU COUNTY’S most prolific scorers, Poirot shares the Herald’s 2026 High School Lacrosse preview cover with Seaford’s Brian Falk. Poirot earned Honorable Mention All-County honors last spring after dominating the scoresheet for a second straight season and helping the Rams to 11 wins. As a junior, she racked up 77 goals to go along with 38 assists. This after in 2024 the dynamic attack scored 74 goals and had 25 assists.

games to watch

Friday, April 10

Softball: Plainedge at Mineola

Baseball: Long Beach at South Side

Baseball: Glen Cove at Hewlett

Baseball: Garden City at MacArthur

Boys Lacrosse: Wantagh at North Shore

Girls Lacrosse: Oceanside at Wantagh

Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Lynbrook

Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Elmont 5

Saturday, April 11

Girls Lacrosse: East Meadow at Plainedge 9 a.m.

Softball: V.S. Central at V.S. South 10 a.m.

Softball: North Shore at Hewlett 10 a.m.

Softball: Freeport at East Rockaway 10 a.m.

Softball: Massapequa at Oceanside 10 a.m.

Softball: Elmont at West Hempstead 10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Locust Valley at Seaford 2 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last year. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Youthful core powers South Side

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

After a 6-12 finish last season that left it out of the playoffs, the South Side softball team is off to a fast start in 2026, using speed and a balanced roster to fuel an early victory.

The Cyclones opened the season with a 19-7 home win over New Hyde Park March 26, a game defined by aggressive base running and timely hitting. Freshman left fielder and new leadoff hitter Valentina Marquardt led the charge, scoring three runs, while four other players crossed the plate twice to back junior pitcher Lily Iandiorio, who struck out seven in a complete-game effort.

Coach Angelica Gargiulo, in her second year at the helm, took advantage of a little small ball and her roster depth to gain the edge as 13 different runners crossed home.

“There definitely weren’t many hits, but a lot of steals,” she said. “We were very aggressive on the bags, looking to move every single chance that we had. We came alive right away, which set the tone for the game.”

The Cyclones return much of last year’s roster, including key seniors in star catcher Kaitlyn Ganly and co-captains Carly Sottovia in center field and second baseman Clare McKenna. But two of the five freshmen on the 22-girl roster and four sophomores saw playing time in the opener, giving Gargiulo a glimpse of the future.

“I definitely think that this is the start of a foundation of the next potential four-year program,” Gargiulo said. “Our freshmen definitely came in ready to work, highly skilled [and] competing at a high level already. I think our freshman group is here for the long run, and they definitely spark the rest of our team.”

Iandiorio reached 100 strikeouts while pitching every inning last season, but the team now has two other hurlers to share the workload, including Audrey Morrow, a junior transfer from Kellenberg, and freshman Eva Trivigno. Mor-

row brings a powerful fastball and, like Iandiorio, multiple pitches to the rotation, while Trivigno will see occasional action as she develops.

“They’re both going to be in a huge for us, so we no longer just have one pitcher,” Gargiulo said. “It’s ginormous.”

The lineup features a mix of experienced and emerging talent. Cleanup hitter Ganly is expected to provide consistent offensive production. Marquardt, with her speed and energy, has transformed the leadoff spot, while right fielder Madeline McKenna and Morrow round out the top of the order.

Sophomore Adriana Marquardt holds

down first base, and Sottovia patrols center field with her trademark energy.

“Carly is the energy of our team,” Gargiulo said. “Always a million miles per hour. We always joke she’s like the hype girl, no matter the situation. She gets up to bat, tries her hardest to get on the base. Her speed definitely sets her apart in the outfield, covering a lot of the outfield and center.”

The Cyclones visited North Shore on Tuesday before a weeklong break. They will return with two games against new conference foe Manhasset in a span of five days starting on April 8 sandwiched around a home match with Floral Park on April 10.

Village Hall goes blue for Autism Acceptance Month

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The Village of Rockville Centre once again lit up Village Hall in blue, marking the start of its annual recognition of Autism Awareness Month in April.

The building was illuminated on March 31, serving as a visible symbol of the village’s commitment to supporting individuals of all abilities and fostering a more inclusive community.

“Autism Acceptance Month is a meaningful reminder that in our village, inclusion and understanding are essential to who we are,” Mayor Francis X. Murray said. “By joining RVC Blue Speaks to Light It Up Blue, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every resident, of all abilities, feels welcomed, supported and valued as part of our community.”

The tradition has grown over the years, evolving from lighting a tree outside Village Hall to illuminating the entire building, making the message more visible for residents and visitors alike.

Village officials partnered with RVC Blue Speaks to bring the initiative to life, embracing it as a way to unite the community around acceptance.

“When I think of RVC, I think of respect, value and acceptance of all others,” said Mary Lou Cancellieri, a co-founder of RVC Blue Speaks. “And part of our tagline is ‘love all others.’ So RVC Blue Speaks loves all others, regardless of who you are and what your needs are.” As spring brings more people outdoors, the blue-lit Village Hall serves as a remind-

Village and community leaders gathered on March 31 to light Village Hall in blue, marking the start of Autism Awareness Month and promoting inclusion and acceptance for individuals of all abilities.

er to be mindful of others and to lead with kindness. The display encourages residents

to recognize that autism exists on a wide spectrum and that not all differences are immediately visible.

“This is the time when people are going outdoors, and this is the time when we can maybe notice more things that we could do for others,” Cancellieri said. “It’s just like a wake-up call. Let’s all come together for this very noble cause for acceptance.”

While the effort is rooted in the local community, it is also part of the broader “Light It Up Blue” movement, inspired by the United Nations’ designation of April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day. By participating, Rockville Centre joins communities around the world in promoting awareness — and acceptance — throughout April and beyond.

RVC Blue Speaks is a coalition of community members, local officials, business owners and advocates united by a shared goal of supporting families affected by autism. As a volunteer-based nonprofit, the organization directs all donations toward helping those in need.

Founded by Mary Lou and Anthony Cancellieri, the group promotes a vision of a community in which individuals of all abilities are included, accepted and supported. Its mission focuses on raising awareness and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder while supporting research, programs and initiatives that benefit families on Long Island and beyond.

For more information, visit RVCBlueSpeaks.org.

Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards honor top female leaders and innovators

By Abbey Salvemini

The room at The Heritage Club at Bethpage was filled with energy, ambition and a shared sense of purpose on March 25 as business leaders gathered for the 2026 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards. This annual event honored outstanding women who are not only achieving success within their respective industries but also driving innovation and meaningful change across them.

At the heart of the evening was a clear and resonant message: women are no longer waiting for opportunities to be granted; they are creating their own paths and redefining leadership on their own terms.

Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations and events at Richner Communications, set the tone early in the night, encouraging attendees to “take a look around this room” as a reflection of progress. She also emphasized the significance of the occasion. “Tonight is about celebrating the incredible women who are leading, building and shaping our community,” she said.

She added that the event is part of a broader mission to create spaces “where women don’t just sit at the table, they own the room,” reinforcing the evening’s theme of empowerment and visibility.

She praised the honorees not only for their professional achievements but also for their role in transforming their industries. “You are not just leaders in your field, you are redefining them,’ she said.

Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications, echoed that statement, reflecting on the company’s history and his mother, Edith Richner, a co-founder who once stood alone as the only woman at the table nearly six decades ago. “If she were here tonight, she would be incredibly proud to see a room filled with such accomplished, driven and inspiring women,” he said.

The evening also highlighted the importance of giving back, with proceeds supporting Baby Essentials of Long Island, an organization dedicated to helping families in need provide safe and healthy starts for their children. Richner emphasized the organization’s mission to assist parents facing financial hardship and other challenges, adding a deeper sense of purpose to the celebration.

The honorees themselves brought the evening to life, sharing personal

stories of resilience, leadership and determination that resonated throughout the room.

Among them, Carol Gomes was recognized in the Healthcare and Wellness category, highlighting her leadership as CEO and COO of Stony Brook University Hospital. Reflecting on what it means to be a woman in business today, she described it as a sense of empowerment and the confidence to lead with strong conviction.

“We are nowhere near where we need to be; we’re making progress, but there are still many opportunities to advance women into higher leadership positions,” she said.

Ana Ludemann, MBA, was honored in the Financial Services category, celebrating her success in a competitive, male-dominated industry. Now a vice president and wealth management financial advisor, she built her career after arriving in the United States in 2014 with just $100. Her journey underscored the importance of perseverance and mindset.

“If you work hard and do right by people, there is no way you will not succeed,” she said, adding that resilience is defined not by obstacles, but by how one responds to them.

Honorees in the Insurance and

Rising Stars Under 40, Evelyn Gellar and Jillian Kashuba of Forest Hills Financial Group, echoed the evening’s central themes. Together, they emphasized that while women are increasingly supporting one another and rising into leadership, challenges remain — particularly around work-life balance and equitable opportunities. Their message was clear: building networks and lifting each other up is essential to sustaining momentum in a competitive industry.

Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of the Power Team award, which honored a group of women from St. Joseph’s University. Among them, Jessica McAleer Decatur, Vice President of marketing and communications, reflected on the significance of the recognition and the responsibility that comes with it.

“To follow in the footsteps of these pioneering women is deeply meaningful. As part of the next generation of women leaders, I hope not only to carry forward their legacy, but also to inspire the next generation,” she said.

Throughout the evening, the room buzzed with energy and camaraderie as powerful women mingled,

exchanged stories and shared insights across industries. The atmosphere reinforced the idea that success is not achieved in isolation, but through collaboration, mentorship and a shared commitment to lifting others along the way. Conversations extended beyond individual accomplishments, focusing instead on creating lasting impact and opening doors for the next generation of women leaders.

The event also celebrated the sponsors and partners whose support made the evening possible, including Forest Hills Financial Group, Long Island Contractors Association, and our centerpiece sponsor, St. Joseph’s University. Their involvement underscored the Long Island business community’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion and opportunity.

As the evening ended, the message remained clear: progress is underway, and the future of women in business is being shaped through the shared determination and collaboration of everyone present.

To learn more, see additional photos and view the complete list of honorees and sponsors, visit richnerlive.com.

South Side delivers the ‘razzle-dazzle’

South Side High School students brought the razzle-dazzle of “Chicago” to the stage in Rockville Centre, performing a teen edition of the iconic musical from March 25 through March 28.

Set in the 1920s, “Chicago” follows Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they turn scandal into stardom with the help of a savvy lawyer. Featuring jazz-driven numbers and sharp satire, the show explores fame, media, and ambition.

The production offered a rare opportunity for students to perform a show still running on Broadway, with six roles — including Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly — double-cast to showcase student talent.

The cast delivered energetic performances featuring classic songs and choreography, reflecting months of rehearsal and collaboration among students and faculty.

“The resulting performances are the culmination of months of student-centered learning and collaboration,” said Kathleen Mark, director of the arts. “From the cast to the pit musicians, stage management team, crew, and lighting and sound operators, our students are learning real-world skills that can be applied in both collegiate and professional settings.”

Rockville Centre schools have a longstanding focus on theater education, including offering the International Baccalaureate theater curriculum.

Drama Guild productions extend that training beyond the classroom, with students involved in all aspects of the show — from the cast and pit musicians to stage management, crew, and lighting and sound.

The program also maintains strong alumni ties. Lighting designer Emma WillsUmdenstock, a 2019 South Side graduate, returned to support the production after discovering her interest in lighting design as a student.

“The theater community at SSHS is tightknit and supportive,” Mark said. “Under the guidance of our dedicated teachers, students are thriving and giving the Rockville Centre community a wonderful opportunity to gather and celebrate their performances.”

–Alyssa R. Griffin

L.I. Association hosts state transport chief

By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com

The Long Island Association hosted state Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez as a guest speaker last week. Dominguez spoke about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fiscal year 2027 executive budget and policy proposals for the DOT.

Appearing at LIA headquarters in Melville on March 31, Dominguez explained that Hochul’s administration matched the federal funding for New York state’s transportation needs from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 with a five-year, $35 billion plan. Hochul added $800 million to the plan last year to offset the cost of tariffs and inflation.

“Our federal dollars are expiring on Sept. 30, which presents a unique challenge,” Dominguez said. “We need to make sure that we are positioning New York for the next level of transportation funding.”

She detailed Hochul’s proposed spending plan, which totals $260 billion. Federal funding is down 11.4 percent, or $10.3 billion, and state operating funds have increased by $157 billion. The state is expecting $17 billion more in state revenue over the next two years than earlier estimates.

“The governor is committed to economic growth and making sure there is a social safety net, and funding that social safety net across the board without increasing taxes,” Dominguez said. “In sum, the 2027 Executive Budget successfully balances two simultaneous realities that we have real momentum here in New York, and addressing the volatility that we know is ahead.”

The budget plan includes automated work-zone speed enforcement with new

speed cameras. Dominguez noted that some drivers have been speeding at over 100 miles per hour through work zones, according to the cameras.

The budget proposes deployment of the cameras on non-controlled-access highways, like Sunrise Highway. It also proposes protections for highway maintenance workers against violent assault.

Dominguez also touched on Hochul’s plan to lower the cost of car insurance.

The plan proposes changes to the state’s auto insurance laws that will punish perpetrators of staged car crashes.

The spending plan also includes funding for filling potholes on main roadways. “We are on a blitz statewide addressing potholes,” Dominguez said. It proposes investments of $107 million for paving on Long Island, including 50 miles of the Northern State Parkway and 35 miles of Sunrise Highway.

Action Long Island representative Michael Rodin suggested more improvements he wanted to see. “We want to make sure public transit is a part of the DOT’s agenda in the future,” he said. “We want roads to be able to accommodate buses as well as more cars — a lot of people take public transit to work.”

When the presentation was open for questions, Dominguez addressed a concern about independent contractors’ coverage under the anti-assault provisions in the budget. “The worker assault provision covers state employees as well as independent contractors,” she said.

“We need to make sure elected officials understand that transit and the lives of transit workers are important, so they fund initiatives to help these efforts and these people,” Marc Herbst, executive director of the Long Island Contractors Association, said. “If we don’t ask, they don’t respond.”

Forever connected through 11 and friendship

Marquardt visited her often — in the hospital and at appointments — helped by prayer and the support of her community. Despite the diagnosis, she said, Ruchalski did not define herself by her illness. When they were together, they avoided talking about it, choosing instead to watch movies and spend time as they always had.

“Mary never really viewed herself as sick, so we wouldn’t really acknowledge the fact that she was,” Marquardt remembered. “Her whole journey truly inspired me — just how brave she was and how she always tried to see the best in everything. She was so incredibly strong, and it puts a lot into perspective at such a young age.”

Ruchalski died on March 11, 2018, just two days shy of her 13th birthday. She had worn jerseys sporting No. 11 in sports, and died at 11:11 p.m.

“I know at that point, Mary was greeted by all these angels,” Marquardt said. “I just know it was a beautiful way of her entering heaven.”

Now, at age 21, Marquardt, who still lives in Rockville Centre, continues to honor her friend’s legacy. “I can’t think of a better way of having Mary’s legacy go on than that,” Carol Ruchalski, Mary’s mother, said. “It’s just very heartwarming.”

Marquardt ran her first half marathon in New York City on March 15 in Ruchalski’s honor, raising nearly $3,000 for The Mary Ruchalski Foundation, which was created by the Ruchalskis in 2018 to raise awareness of pediatric cancer and help fund its research.

“I reached mile 11 at 11:11 a.m.,” Marquardt recounted. “Those were Mary’s numbers growing up — she was 11 in sports — and that was a crazy moment for me. I was like, ‘Wow, she’s really with me right now.’”

Despite having little training and having just returned from a mission trip to El Salvador, Marquardt

Lauren marquardt, left, and mary ruchalski, who were both 11 in 2016, were best friends. now, 10 years later, marquardt continues to “be like mary.”

felt compelled to run. “Just running it for her definitely motivated me throughout the whole race,” she said. “I felt like she was with me the entire time. And just doing it for such a good cause really makes you not want to give up throughout the whole race as well.”

Marquardt was in El Salvador during the week of what would have been Ruchalski’s 21st birthday, as well as the anniversary of her death. There Marquardt worked with children and families in need — something

she said her friend would have appreciated.

“We partnered up with an organization that helps build houses for the people there,” she said. “And we were able to help the families and play with the kids, which was so amazing.”

Now a nursing student at Catholic University, in Washington, D.C., Marquardt plans to pursue a career in pediatric oncology, inspired in part by the care she saw during Ruchalski’s treatment.

“The care that the nurses provided for Mary, and all the families going through pediatric cancer, really touched my heart and impacted me,” Marquardt said. “And the calling just became stronger as I grew up. I was like, ‘This is exactly where I need to be and what I need to do.’ And she’s just truly helped me — our friendship is a huge part of who I am today.”

Honoring Ruchalski isn’t limited to special events, she said, but is part of her daily life. Marquardt still wears a light-blue bracelet that reads “be like Mary,” a phrase that has become both a personal reminder and a message she shares with others.

“Mary has been a driving force for how Lauren carries herself and acts each and every day,” her mother, Renee Marquardt, said. “There truly is no stopping Lauren once she sets her mind to something, and it’s been a joy to watch her determination in action.”

Reflecting on her friend’s influence on her, Marquardt said that one lesson in particular was shaped by both faith and experience: Even in difficult moments, there is still light to be found.

The way Ruchalski lived, Marquardt said, taught her to look beyond the moment and recognize a greater purpose in everything. That has helped her inspire others to find light even in difficult circumstances, and to believe that there is always something positive. You just have to be willing to search for it.

Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities. The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.

Bessent, Blakeman tout Trump’s tax cuts

By JULIA CAPITELLI jcapitelli@liherald.com

To promote President Trump’s economic agenda, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent visited Long Island and took part in a panel discussion with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and business executives from across the county.

The March 30 discussion, at the county legislative building, focused on three aspects of the Working Families Tax Cut Act: the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime pay, the creation of so-called Trump Accounts and the higher cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes. Under the law, parents can open and contribute funds to accounts for their children under age 18. As part of the pilot program for the accounts, children born during Trump’s term will receive $1,000 from the Treasury Department.

“It’s something that’s going to help every family in America,” Blakeman, the Republican candidate for governor, said of the program.

The law includes an increase in the state and local tax deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000. It also allocates roughly $170 billion to carry out the administration’s immigration and border objectives, and raises the federal debt ceiling to $5 trillion.

“That’s the American way,” Bessent said of the tax cuts. “Work harder, keep more of your money.”

The SALT deduction avoids double taxation and allows certain taxpayers to reduce their federally taxable income. To offset the cost created by this and the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, the law cuts nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and reduces food assistance and clean-energy incentives.

Panelists shared their perspectives on the law, mostly as it relates to their businesses. Michael Serao, exec-

utive vice president and chief administrative officer of First Central Savings Bank, claimed that Trump Accounts could help students build financial literacy.

But much of the discussion focused on the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and the SALT deduction. “I am surrounded by hardworking people, who come into the diner and tell me how happy they are about their tax returns and about how much more money they are getting back,” Gus Tsiorvas, owner of the Embassy Diner, in Bethpage, said.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, the average tax refund this year is roughly 10 percent higher than it was in March 2025. “This means more discretionary spending here in Nassau County,” County Comptroller Elaine Phillips said, “which allows

Bruce not to raise taxes.”

Blakeman reiterated his assertion that Nassau is “the safest county in America where we haven’t raised taxes one penny in four years.”

In a statement about Blakeman’s use of taxpayer resources to campaign as everyday costs escalate, Democratic County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said the Bessent visit was “as shameless as it gets.”

“Nassau residents aren’t stupid — they feel the squeeze every time they fill up, check out at the grocery store, or pay a bill,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “The cost-of-living crisis is real, and it’s being driven directly by the disastrous tariffs and global instability coming from the same out-of-touch allies in Washington [Blakeman] continues to stand with.”

STEPPING OUT

‘Rent’ star Adam Pascal returns to reimagine the jukebox musical

By Iris Wiener

When Adam Pascal pulls into Long Island these days, it’s not just a commute; it’s a homecoming layered with memory, coincidence, and creative possibility. This spring, the Tony-nominated performer-turned-director from Syosset is channeling all of that into “Feels Like the First Time: The Foreigner Musical.”

The new production premieres April 17 at the Little Theatre on Long Island University’s Brookville campus.

The project, created in collaboration with the legendary rock band Foreigner, marks the launch of LIU’s New Works Initiative and Pascal’s tenure as the university’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence. But for Pascal, the journey to this moment is anything but typical.

The path to directing the show began not in a rehearsal room, but at a backyard barbecue.

“Tom Dunn [Tilles Center’s creative producer, executive/artistic Director and Dean of LIU’s College of Arts and Design] lives across the street from my sister. I first met Tom and his wife at a barbecue,” Pascal relates. “Tom said, ‘We’re doing this thing. Do you want to direct it?’”

From there, the pieces quickly began to align. A previous version of the musical had been developed, but Pascal and the team — including book writer Stephen Garvey and arranger David Abbinanti — set out to reshape it into something fresh: a high-energy, heart-driven story set in the 1980s, centered on three families whose lives collide when a rock star arrives for a backyard concert after an MTV contest win.

“We wanted to create something that was fun and that had heart, that understood its purpose using Foreigner’s music,” Pascal says.

That purpose, however, comes with a unique creative challenge. The musical weaves iconic songs into an original narrative — a process Pascal describes as both complex and deeply collaborative.

“You’re creating a story, and in many ways building a scene backwards,” he explains. “You have these lyrics that were never written to be narrative in that way, so you have to do a lot of reverse engineering.”

Still, that creative freedom is part of the appeal.

“We get to reimagine these songs,” he adds. “They’ve now become narrative storytelling songs.”

The new musical features a company of 26 performers, primarily LIU students — a fact Pascal calls fortuitous.

“The combination of this process, this particular show, and this university … it couldn’t have been a better melding of all things.”

For Pascal, working with students isn’t just about mentorship — it’s personal, as he has two sons the same age as the young cast. His directing style reflects that perspective, blending instinct, experience and a focus on emotional authenticity.

“I approach it from a much more naturalistic and real place. I’m trying to orchestrate a picture and to get them to use their emotions in a physical way.”

That lived-in approach comes from decades in the industry, which includes roles in Broadway’s “Aida,” “Memphis” and “Something Rotten,” besides the iconic“Rent.” However, Pascal quickly points out that he was never formally trained.

New Works Initiative, an incubator for developing and refining new theatrical works by both emerging and established writers.

• Friday through Sunday, April 17-19 and Thursday through Sunday, April 23-26, varied times

• Tickets are $43.82, $17.82 students; available at tillescenter.org/events

• Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

“My approach can only be [described as] a layman approach. I’m fortunate enough to now have 30 years of experience making musicals.”

And yet, for all his Broadway credentials, Pascal is candid about the challenges facing the industry today — particularly the financial barriers that make developing new work increasingly difficult in New York City.

“We all have to change the mindset about working in New York,” he says bluntly, pointing to rising production costs and systemic issues. Instead, he sees projects like “Feels Like the First Time” as part of a larger shift — one that prioritizes creativity, collaboration and accessibility over tradition and expense.

“I want to take the power out of Broadway’s hands and put it back into the hands of people who make theater,” he states.

That philosophy is evident in the show’s development process, which Pascal praises for its efficiency and clarity of vision.

For LIU students like Anna Frost, being part of that process is nothing short of transformative. A senior serving as dramaturg for the show, Frost is deeply embedded in the rehearsal rooms, helping to shape the evolving script.

“It is so exciting for me to work on a show which is in development,” she says. “I get to work with a living, breathing text.”

For her, the experience underscores the importance of new work in today’s theatrical landscape.

“There has to be new art that is relevant to what is happening now,” she adds. “Getting to be a part of something that will be history is really cool.”

Pascal agrees and hopes the students recognize the significance of their involvement.

“They’ll forever be connected to this show as the first people that played these characters,” he says. “If the show becomes a hit, they’ll always have that on their resume.”

That sense of legacy resonates deeply with Pascal himself, particularly given his return to Long Island. He remains deeply connected to his roots, and optimistic about its potential as a hub for theatrical innovation.

“There’s no better place for it,” he says of LIU. “They have the facilities, the desire and the proximity to the city.”

As for what’s next, Pascal continues to develop new musicals through his production company, including an adaptation of “Ruthless People.” He’s also set to direct “Our Little Secret: A True New Musical” in Toronto. For now, “Feels Like the First Time” offers something that feels incredibly meaningful — -a chance to build, collaborate, and rediscover the spark that started it all.

Or, as Pascal might put it, to make it feel like the first time all over again.

Local favorite Mike DelGuidice returns to the Paramount stage with his popular residency, delivering the high-energy, feel-good performances that have made him a hometown standout. Backed by his powerhouse band, DelGuidice brings the music of his idol, Billy Joel, to life with passion and precision, celebrating decades of iconic hits in a rousing, crowd-pleasing show. A multi-instrumentalist who grew up immersed in music, DelGuidice’s deep knowledge of Joel’s catalog ultimately led to sharing the stage with the Piano Man himself, touring around the world. Alongside Joel’s beloved classics, he weaves in his own original songs, showcasing the songwriting that has earned him a devoted following. Whether performing on stage or connecting with fans through his “Live on the Porch” series, which brought audiences together during the pandemic, DelGuidice continues to share his love of music in ways that resonate far and wide.

Friday and Saturday, April 10-11, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Fleetwood Macked

Eighteen years ago

Fleetwood Macked set out to provide audiences with the truest live Fleetwood Mac experience as possible and haven’t stopped since. Much of the realism comes from the New York-based band’s history. Husband and wife musical team Hillary and Michael Epstein (Stevie and Lindsey) and friends Tracy Wells, Jay Novas, Phil Weiss and Andrew Nadien (Christine, John and Mick) have made great music together in various incarnations that finally all came together with their mutual love of Fleetwood Mac. They are and have always been professional touring rock musicians, which also adds to the authenticity of the sound of the band. Fleetwood Macked live brings audiences the passion, depth, heart, and the musicianship Fleetwood Mac’s music requires. Out of love and respect musical liberties are not taken, songs are recreated just as Fleetwood Mac intended them.

Friday, April 10, 8 p.m. $48. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

9,

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

Friday Flicks

Stop by Rockville Centre Public Library

for a showing of the R-rated thriller “The Roofman.” A charismatic criminal on the run hides in a toy store, assumes a new identity, and embarks on an unexpected and risky relationship with an employee.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

Family theater

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

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also April 14-15

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

Micky Dolenz

• Where: Rockville Centre (participating local restaurants TBD)

• Time: 6–9 p.m.

• Contact: rvclions.com

Civic Association meets Rockville Centre Civic Association will hold its next meeting at Rockville Centre Public Library, offering residents an opportunity to learn about current neighborhood updates and discuss quality-of-life issues affecting the village. All are encouraged to attend and participate in the conversation.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 766-6257

Sunshine luncheon

Micky Dolenz celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Monkees with a special tour honoring the band’s enduring legacy and timeless sound. In this nostalgic and high-spirited performance, Dolenz takes audiences on a musical journey through The Monkees’ rise to fame, performing their biggest hits in chronological order while sharing personal stories from his decades in entertainment. As the last surviving member of the beloved group, Dolenz brings both heart and history to the stage, paying tribute to bandmates Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith, while celebrating the fans who helped transform a fictional TV band into a global sensation. A true entertainment veteran, Dolenz’s career spans decades and disciplines — from his early days as a child star on “Circus Boy” to his work as a singer, actor, director and radio host. In recent years, he has continued to keep The Monkees’ music alive for new generations, including a solo tour performing the group’s 1967 album “Headquarters” in its entirety. This is sure to be a heartfelt, hit-filled evening that blends music, memories and a lasting connection to one of pop culture’s most iconic acts.

APR 29

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Seasonal Sprouts: Flowers

and Trees

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens to discover the wonders of nature with a one-hour guided tour through the gardens and woodlands, featuring naturethemed games and hands-on activities. This week, children explore plants big and small, learning how they grow and change with the seasons. Each session includes a simple planting or craft project for children to take home and continue their learning. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 11 a.m.-noon

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

‘Dog Sees God’

Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance presents Bert V. Royal’s edgy comedy. The unauthorized continuation of the

Peanuts comic strip, reimagines its characters as teenagers dealing with various contemporary issues including, identity, substance abuse, and relationships. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that’s both haunting and hopeful. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.

• Where: Hofstra’s Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater, Joseph G. Shapiro Family Hall, Hempstead

• Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; also April 12, 2 p.m.; April 16-April 19

• Contact: hofstra. universitytickets.com

Center to support Madeline Norton, the young daughter of Officer Gerard Norton. Madeline was diagnosed at just six months old with PKAN, a rare and devastating neurodegenerative disease that currently has no cure. Fundraiser features entertainment, food, drinks from local breweries and raffles. Tickets are $75 per person.

• Where: 99 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: Noon-4 p.m.

• Contact: info@ madelinemission.org

‘A Dream Is A Wish’

• Time: Varied times, also April 12

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

APR

13

Board of Trustees meet

The Rockville Centre Board of Trustees hold tts next regular meeting at Village Hall, where trustees will be speaking about a wide range of topics. The meeting is open to the public and includes a public comment period for residents to address village officials. Agendas are typically posted in advance on the village website.

SIBSPlace, an affiliate of Mount Sinai South Nassau, hosts its annual Sunshine Luncheon at the Rockville Links Club, offering an afternoon centered on community, compassion and celebration under the theme “Together We Shine.” The event brings supporters together to raise awareness and funds for programs that help children and families navigate grief and loss. Guests can expect an uplifting gathering that highlights the organization’s impact while fostering connection among attendees. Individual tickets are $125, with proceeds benefiting SIBSPlace’s services.

• Where: 600 N. Long Beach Rd., Rockville Centre

• Time: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 374-3000

Madeline’s Mission Spring Fest

The Rockville Centre Police Benevolent Association hosts a fundraiser at the St. Agnes Parish APR

The enchanting “A Dream Is A Wish” princess concert returns to the Madison Theatre with new adventures and Disney Classics. Families are invited to sing along to all their favorite Disney songs including “Let It Go,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” “Part of That World,” “ A Whole New World,” and many more. Enjoy a magical journey and maybe even meet your favorite princess! Breakfast and tea ticket options also available.

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

• Where: Village Hall, 1 College Place

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: RVCNY.gov

APR

14

Restaurant Crawl

The RVC Lions host their 5th Annual Restaurant Crawl. Sample specialty dishes from 10–12 local restaurants, offering attendees a chance to enjoy a variety of flavors from across the community. Additional details to be announced soon.

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.

Memoir offers insider perspective on iconic singer

ences working with the pop icon, continuing to build a collection of what he described as short stories over the years. He said he began writing more extensively a few years after Jackson’s death in 2009, including during trips to visit Will Gray, a close friend and artist he managed, who was battling cancer.

“When I was on the plane and when I was down in the cafeteria after visiting him, I just started writing more,” Beck said.

Encouraged by his daughters, Beck continued developing the manuscript before reconnecting with publisher Ira Robbins of Trouser Press Books, who helped bring the project to completion with final edits.

“I knew that Dan had written something unique and important,” Robbins said. “I’m glad that people appreciate that.”

Robbins added that while Jackson’s global fame may draw readers in, the book stands out for its distinct perspective.

“‘You’ve Got Michael’ offers insights and perspectives that none of the other books on him have,” he said.

The memoir’s title stems from a defining moment early in Beck’s tenure. In 1991, about eight weeks before the release of “Dangerous” — Jackson’s eighth studio album, which included songs such as “Black or White,” “Heal the World” and

“He was curious, and above all, he worked very, very hard,” Beck said. “He worked to perfect his dance moves; he worked to perfect his songwriting and production.”

Beck said the reception for his book has exceeded expectations, with about 1,000 copies sold in the first few weeks and more than 2,000 to date, drawing strong reviews on Amazon and garnering industry attention, including coverage in Billboard and Rolling Stone magazines.

“I expected it to be kind of lukewarm,” he said. “I’ve been really, totally surprised at how positive it’s been.”

Until April 1, the book was available only on Amazon and through Trouser Press Books, Beck said. In addition, he recently entered a distribution deal with Publishers Group West, marking its first major push into libraries and bookstores.

“Remember the Time” — Beck said his boss delivered simple but career-altering instructions.

“Dave Glew, who was chairman of Epic Records, stepped in the doorway of my office,” Beck said. “Dave said, ‘You’ve got Michael,’ and he walked away. That was his instruction that I was now Michael’s point person at the label.”

In that role, Beck coordinated marketing efforts ranging from album releases to music videos during an era when physi-

cal distribution was essential and required extensive planning. Despite Jackson’s larger-than-life public persona, Beck described him as grounded in their working relationship.

“The big challenge was his celebrity, not him personally,” Beck said. “If I had to use one word to describe him, it would be collaborator.”

He said Jackson valued ideas, worked closely with others and remained deeply committed to his craft.

Interest in Jackson’s legacy continues to build ahead of an upcoming biographical film titled “Michael,” which will premiere in theaters on April 24, with Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar, starring in the title role. While Beck said his memoir is not directly tied to the film, he noted that readers have described it as a companion piece.

For Beck, the book serves as both a reflection on his career and a window into a unique corner of the music industry.

“It’s a fun time. It’s an exciting time,” he said. “It’s nice to be a geezer and kind of enjoying all these fun, young things.”

WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2026

6:00-9:00PM

The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale

For more information or be a sponsor, contact Amy Amato Executive Director, Corporate Relations Events at aamato@richnerlive.com or 516.569.4000 x224

BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL

JOSEPH G. MILIZIO

Managing Partner Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP

RALPH ROSELLA Office Managing Member Bond, Schoeneck & King

COMPLEX TORT & GENERAL CASUALTY

CAV. NICHOLAS R. CAIAZZO Partner/Trial Attorney Wilson Elser

CORPORATE & SECURITIES

DAVID F. DURSO Partner Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.

DEBT SOLUTIONS

LESLIE H. TAYNE Founder & Managing Director Tayne Law Group, P.C.

ELDER LAW

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ROCHELLE L. VERRON, ESQ. Founding & Managing Partner Verron Law Group, P.C.

RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ. Chair Elder Law Group & Partner Trusts & Estates Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP

EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS LITIGATION

DANIELÉ D. DE VOE Partner Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano, PLLC

JEFFREY BASSO

Partner

Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP

MICHAEL POROPAT

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ESTATE PLANNING/ ELDER LAW

STEPHEN J. SILVERBERG

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WENDY K. GOIDEL, ESQ.

Founder & Principal Goidel Law Group, LLC

Goidel Law Group, LLC

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Raymond A. Tierney, Suffolk County District Attorney

MEET THE 2026 AWARD WINNERS*

ESTATE PLANNING / GENERATIONAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT

RUSSEL MORGAN, ESQ. Founding Partner Morgan Legal Group, P.C.

STEPHANIE D’ANGELO, ESQ. Principal Attorney D’Angelo Law Associates, P.C.

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ALEXANDER E. SKLAVOS, ESQ.

Founder & Principal Attorney Sklavos Law Group, P.C.

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HEALTHCARE & CANNABIS LAW

ANDREW P. COOPER, ESQ., LLM Cannabis & Psychedelics Attorney Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP

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CHRISSY GRIGOROPOULOSPELEYTAY, ESQ. Founding Attorney Grigor Law Injury & Car Accident Lawyers

IP & TRADEMARK

ROSS PITCOFF Founder & Managing Partner Pitcoff Law Group, P.C.

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ANDREW J. TURRO Shareholder Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

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PERSONAL INJURY

DOROTHY RENZ

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BRIAN S. STOLAR

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TRIAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

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*List in formation

TO PURCHASE TICKETS SCAN HERE! A portion of ticket proceeds will be donated to a local charity.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

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, Attorney in Fact, Liberty Mutual Ins Co.

Jeanette Marchese and 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 Beatrice Dombo a/k/a Beatrice Falco, 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 April 29th, 2026, at 10:00 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 Beatrice Dombo, 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 $ 4,213.82 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 842.76 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 $ 28,450.00 as and for legal fees and $ 2,837.81 as and for disbursements, for a total of $ 31,287.81, of which $ 3,787.81 has been paid and $ 27,500.00 is unpaid;

4.Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $ 6,350.00 of which $ 350.00 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 Beatrice Dombo a/k/a Beatrice Falco, 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, March 6th, 2026 (Seal)

HON.David P. Sullivan

Surrogate

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 rkerins@mmkolaw.com

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. 158992

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2021 -E, MORTGAGE BACKED SECURITIES, SERIES 2021 -E, BY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff -againstPAUL ARCHIBALD MCGREGOR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF IRENE GREEN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated February 2, 2026 and entered on February 11, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Lakeview, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as Section 38 Block: 130 and Lot: 1 and 2. Said premises known as 1357 LANGDON BOULEVARD, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570

Approximate amount of lien $256,676.43 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 619329/2023.

BRIAN DAVIS, ESQ., Referee Pincus & Tarab Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 {* ROCK CEN H*} 158902

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE OF COOPERATIVE APARTMENT SECURITY BY VIRTUE OF A DEFAULT

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: By virtue of a default under a Security Agreement dated January 18, 2006, executed by DONNA PINKNEY A/K/A DONNA P. PINKNEY (“Debtor”), and the ESTATE OF DONNA PINKNEY A/K/A DONNA P. PINKNEY as assigned to CITIMORTGAGE, INC. (“Secured Party”), said Secured Party, by Auctioneer(s): Richie Schultz, John Roman, Michael Campbell, or Stephan G. Marcelin, will conduct a public sale of the security consisting of 83 shares of stock of ROCK RIVER

APTS, INC. (“Corporation”), and all right, title, and interest in and to a Proprietary Lease between said Corporation and Debtor for the apartment known as 102 SOUTH VILLAGE AVENUE, APT./UNIT 3B, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570, together with all fixtures and articles of personal property now or hereafter affixed to or used in connection with said apartment on APRIL 21, 2026 at 1:30 PM, at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the unpaid principal amount of $110,863.35, plus interest, late fees, attorney fees, maintenance in arrears, and all other advanced charges. The apartment is sold “AS IS” AND POSSESSION TO BE OBTAINED BY THE PURCHASER. Said sale is subject to residency requirements of the Corporation, payment of all sums due, if any, to ROCK RIVER APTS, INC. and the consent if necessary, of said Corporation; any existing tenancy; payment of all expenses and fees of the secured party with respect thereto; terms of sale and auctioneer’s fees; flip-tax; State, City, and County transfer tax. The Secured Party reserves the right to bid. Terms: an official bank or certified check made payable to Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., as attorneys for the Secured Party for ten (10%) percent of price bid. No cash accepted. Balance shall be due within thirty (30) days.

ATTORNEYS FOR SECURED PARTY: Stern & Eisenberg, P.C. 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016, and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540

P. 516-630-0288

F. 732-726-8719

Dated: March 16, 2026

Firm File No. NY202600000011-1 159084

News brief

Davis to host food, shredding initiatives

Nassau County Legislator Scott M. Davis is hosting two community events in Rockville Centre this month to support local residents.

On April 19, Davis will hold a food drive outside the Associated Supermarket at 160 N. Long Beach Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations will benefit local pantries serving communities across Nassau County’s 1st Legislative District.

“Far too often, food insecurity is a silent epidemic,” Davis said. “We hope residents

will join us to help fight hunger.”

The following weekend, on April 25, Davis will host his office’s third annual shredding event at the Rockville Centre Public Library, 221 N. Village Avenue, from 1 to 3 p.m. Residents can bring up to 10 black garbage bags of unwanted papers for secure, environmentally-friendly disposal.

For more information, contact Davis’ office at 516-571-6201 or sdavis@nassaucountyny.gov.

— Brian Kacharaba

Public Notices

College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on APRIL 23, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: ANNUAL

MAINTENANCE CONTRACTDISTRIBUTION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Bid No. 2604W1(1185)

The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than April 16, 2026. All contractors and subcontractors submitting bids or performing construction work on public work projects or private projects covered by Article 8 of the Labor Law are required to register with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) under Labor Law Section 220i and must include a copy of the registration

with their bid response. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.

Purchasing Department

Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 159508

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND FILING OF ASSESSMENT ROLL TAX NOTICE The Assessor of the Village of Rockville Centre, New York has prepared the completed and verified assessment roll for the fiscal year beginning June 1, 2026. A copy thereof will be filed on March 31, 2026 in the office of the Village Administrator. The final assessment roll may be seen and examined by any person during business hours from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday at the Assessor’s Office, 110 Maple Avenue, and it will remain on file subject to inspection for a minimum of 15 days from the date of this notice.

Francis X. Murray, Mayor Kathy Baxley, Deputy Mayor Emilio Grillo, Trustee Katie Conlon, Trustee Gregory P. Shaughnessy, Trustee Thomas Domanico, Assessor

Dated: March 31, 2026 159509

LEGAL NOTICE ASSESSOR’S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2026/2027 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2027 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2026/2027 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2026. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals located in the offices of:

DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days. Dated this 1st day of April 2026.

JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 159474

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Public Hearing Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York Meeting Date: April 13th, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 330 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS

HEREBY GIVEN that the Exterior Design Review Board of the Village of Rockville Centre will have a Public Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, 1 College Place, Rockville Centre

LEGAL NOTICE April 13, 2026 at 7:00

PM Case No. 03-2026

Dennis Marti 1500 Jerusalem Avenue Merrick, NY 11566

Description: New single-family dwelling with attached garage.

Premises known as: 29 Seaman Avenue Case No. 04-2026

Sarah Horvitz & James Nash 112 Broadway Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Description: Additions and alterations to a singlefamily dwelling. Premises known as: 112 Broadway The Exterior Design Review Board OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Eugene Murray Village Hall, Rockville Centre, New York

George Bella, Chairperson of the consultants to The Exterior Design Review Board

Thomas Domanico, Secretary to The Consultants Information and records for Exterior Design Review cases are available the Office of the Secretary, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC 159507

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Waiting For The Right Family

This is a standout listing in Woodmere’s Five Towns. Fully renovated legal mother-daughter (2-family classification 220.01), this originally 6-bedroom, 3-bath home is ideal for rental income or extended family living. This oversized 3,500 sq. ft. Hi-Ranch is in the award-winning Hewlett-Woodmere District 14. A stunning chef’s kitchen anchors the home, perfect for entertaining. Features include large bedrooms, walk-in closets, cast-iron baseboard heat, 8 ductless AC units,

How much extra money does a home cost these days?

Q. I saw a billboard and several TV commercials for something called “Let Them Build, NY,” and was wondering what you could tell me about it. The commercial said that there is an extra $82,000 spent on housing, per home, just due to government red tape. Is this true, and is anything being done about it?

A. There is plenty of finger-pointing in the construction industry, on top of the current cost increases due to tariffs, war and subsequent delivery costs due to higher fuel prices. But long before there were these current issues, government officials began, at every level, to either increase enforcement of existing regulations or to add regulations on top of what was already fairly complicated and burdensome.

Rent Your Apartment

Many years ago I was very active in the American Institute of Architects, to the point of being vice president of the Long Island chapter. I left them when I realized that they did not want to have the backbone to challenge, as a professional group, the regulations that cause construction and building design to become out of reach for a large segment of our population. In the years following, I daily encountered the thousands of building owners who never even attempted to comply with building regulations, basically skirting the entire permit process altogether because of the added expense.

The first and foremost expense is caused by the delays in getting through the approval process. There are so many reasons for the slowdown that it will take several columns, at 500 words apiece, to get through the long list of problems. If you ask a government official, they will point to the design professionals who “just can’t seem to get the regulations right” in their drawing submissions. I have often listened as officials complained to me about inadequate drawings being submitted. In all fairness, it is a two-way street, because the communications from officials back to the architects and engineers is often incoherent or incomplete.

When a plans examiner uses phrases like “demonstrate compliance” or “incomplete submission,” they are contributing to the problem, not solving it. Instead of pointing to specific sections of code and explaining the very specific problem, they communicate in generalities that are useless and cause a lot of extra work and discussion among the people trying to move a project forward. The phrase “If you aren’t part of the solution, you’re part of the problem” applies here.

I remember when a plans examiner would mark up and discuss specific drawings, and some even went the extra mile and pulled out their code books. In the era of computers, the internet and the “portal,” building officials often abbreviate and confuse both the professional and the customer by not pointing out that “the wording on Sheet 3 in the upper right-hand corner should state…” The lack of specifics creates lots of back-and-forth, delays and cost to the owner for the delays. Rent and taxes still need to be paid during the delays.

More to follow.

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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

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Did I ever tell you about my grad school?

Rosemary and I and our son Sean recently visited the University of Notre Dame. In many ways it was a homecoming.

Rosemary, her mother and her sister graduated from St. Mary’s College, adjacent to Notre Dame, in the days before it accepted female students. Her father and two brothers are Notre Dame grads. Our daughter Erin and I graduated from Notre Dame Law School, and Sean earned his MBA from Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of Business. Sean is now an affiliated scholar at the university’s Liu Institute for Asian Affairs, and regularly lectures on Asian geopolitics and economic policy at the institute and the Mendoza School. When I was growing up as an IrishCatholic kid in blue-collar Queens, Notre Dame embodied Irish-Catholic immigrant success in becoming a part of the American fabric and achieving the American dream. That success was exemplified by Notre Dame’s fabled football teams, which dominated college

football during that era. Of course, there was and is more to the university than football. Notre Dame was founded at a time of severe anti-Catholic bias in the country, led by hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and the Know Nothing movement. There also was anti-Catholic bias in academia well into the 20th century, which Arthur Schlesinger Sr. described as “the anti-Semitism of intellectuals.”

My wife and I visited a university you may have heard of to watch our son in action.

Notre Dame, though, went beyond being a defensive religious fortress to making Catholic thought a part of American life, along with full acceptance of other religions, with open debate and finding common ground encouraged. Striking that balance can be difficult, but it is still working. Religious freedom was on display on the campus last year, when pro-Hamas demonstrations did not devolve into the antisemitic violence that occurred at other universities, such as Columbia. Students were given prescribed locations and time periods for demonstrations, and those who ignored them were arrested. The result was intelligent debate without violence.

Rosemary and I visited this year to meet with some of Sean’s academic colleagues and watch him in action. We

ialso walked around the campus, taking in iconic sights like the Golden Dome and rekindling old memories. On our first morning, we met with Frank Pomarico and his wife, Eileen. A Queens native and a graduate of St. Francis Prep, Frank was the captain of Notre Dame’s 1973 national champion football team, coached by the legendary Ara Parseghian. Frank and Eileen live in South Bend, and are amazingly friendly and interesting. It was a great way to start the day.

Then we walked over to the law school to meet with Diane Desierto, a professor of international law and human rights, a native of the Philippines, a friend of Sean’s and a true scholar. Desierto updated me on the state of the law school (all good), her strong belief that law students should be exposed to all sides of issues and that legal education must include a moral component.

We had lunch with Josh Gobel, a good friend and a longtime member of the South Bend Police Department who now works in the Notre Dame P.D. in various key capacities, including protecting visiting dignitaries, such as Supreme Court Justice Amy Cony Barrett — who

attended the law school at the same time as Erin. Great conversation with Josh, as always.

After a visit to the campus bookstore, Rosemary and I joined Sean at the Morris Inn on campus for dinner with Michel Hockx, a Chinese scholar and a professor at the Liu Institute, where Sean had just finished teaching a class. Hockx, who is originally from the Netherlands, has been teaching at Notre Dame for 10 years, and has worked with Sean on various projects. After dinner, we all walked to the Mendoza School to watch Sean give a lecture to a group of students preparing to visit Japan.

He discussed the intricacies of Japanese political, cultural and economic development since the end of World War II, the country’s relationship with the United States and the threats it faces from China. My biased opinion? A thoughtful, virtuoso performance. (He must have gotten it from Rosemary, who was a teacher.)

The next day we flew back to New York. Rosemary and I went home to Seaford, and Sean to his apartment in Manhattan — all three of us with new Notre Dame memories to share. And yes, Notre Dame football is still great. Go, Irish!

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

Will there be a blue wave this fall?

Is this the year of the blue wave? Will it be a modified one or a total rout? Is there any chance of a red wave? Not likely. But, once again, we are facing a year in which the U.S. House of Representatives, and perhaps the Senate, are up for grabs, and the early odds favor the party that’s out of power.

We often refer to political prognosticating it as “reading the tea leaves.” But tea leaves are no longer the best way to pick winners and losers. There are now so many more sophisticated ways to handicap the races, some of which we have been used for years and others that are brand new. The media is dominated by daily polling announcements, and if you give the polls any credence, they spell bad news for President Trump and the candidates of his party.

Poll after poll, whether from the left or the right, seem to indicate that this may be a very bad year for Republicans.

You know that things look bad for them when Fox News consistently announces polls showing that everyday Republicans and independents are slowly moving away from long-favored party candidates. In addition, wellknown commentators such as Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson are predicting only bad things for the party come November.

i’ve seen many waves, red and blue, which are part of the ups and downs of politics.

The newest form of political projections is occurring on such outlets as Kalshi and Polymarket. On Kalshi, people trade contracts on the outcome of real-world events. They are deep into gambling on sports events, but lately have also been involved in betting on political events. Polymarket is built on a crypto platform. People bet on “yes” and “no” shares that reflect the feelings of the bettors and their inkling to pick winners. Both platforms have become highly controversial. Demands are being made for them to be regulated by Congress, but that won’t happen soon.

If you want to find more reliable trends, pay attention to what’s going on in Washington and around the country. This year, more than 30 Republican

members of the House have announced that they won’t seek re-election. Some are campaigning for Senate seats and others are running for governor, but the vast majority of the retirees have announced that they’re eager to spend more time with their families, the age-old excuse to get out of Washington.

At last count, there were 35 House seats up for reelection that were tilting toward the Democrats. If the blue wave is really going to happen, most of those seats will go to the Democrats. In 2025 the party won major races in Virginia, New Jersey and New York. This year, a number of Democrats have had upset wins in races for state House seats in districts that Trump won in 2024 by wide margins. If these victories are any indication of the national trend, it’s all bad news for the Republicans.

Up to a few months ago, there was little or no talk about Democrats having any chance to take over the U.S. Senate, but the latest polls seem to show a tightening of the races in Maine, North Carolina, Texas and Ohio. If Democrats can

pull off any upsets in these key states, Jon Ossoff can hold on to his seat in Georgia and a newcomer can win in Michigan, the party’s chances of capturing the Senate will improve remarkably. One of the more disturbing factors for Republicans is the fact that Trump hasn’t made any strong statements about his desire to see his party stay in power. He is promoting various ideas about how they can win at the ballot box, but any federal effort to take the power to oversee voting away from the states will likely be struck down as unconstitutional.

Having reached an advanced age, I’ve seen many waves, both red and blue. They sometimes last two years, and occasionally continue for four years. The swings back and forth between parties are part of the ups and downs of politics. So if it turns out that the Democrats have a great year, they’d better handle their newfound power very carefully, because two years can pass very quickly.

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

opinions Washington must start solving problems

The American people are fed up.

The chaos at our airports was awful, the Department of Homeland Security has not been fully funded during these very dangerous times, and the people are demanding that Immigration and Customs Enforcement live up to the standards of all other federal law enforcement agencies. They are sick and tired of the endless blame game. All across America, people are demanding that politicians put partisanship aside and work together to fix the very real problems we face. The anger and annoyance are real. And frankly, I agree.

That’s why I’ve introduced bipartisan legislation to immediately reopen DHS while advancing common-sense reforms to ICE. Alongside my Problem Solvers Caucus co-chair, Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, who served as an FBI agent for more than 15 years, I am trying to cut through the dysfunction, isolate the problem areas where negotiations have stalled and work together to actually get something done.

Our solution is common sense: fund the parts of the DHS where there are no disagreements, like disaster response and cybersecurity, and institute real reforms to ICE that most Americans have been hungering for. It only makes sense to hold ICE, a federal law-enforcement agency, to the same safety and accountability standards of every other bureau in the nation.

Calling us ‘Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats’ doesn’t help.

That means body-camera and officer-identification requirements, higher training standards, a crackdown on roving patrols and limitations on agents wearing masks. The legislation would also lay out stronger warrant requirements and rules governing activity in sensitive locations to ensure that enforcement resources are focused on the “worst of the worst.”

It seems simple, but Congress has been in a political standoff that perfectly exemplifies what’s wrong with Washington. Let me explain.

The budget for the DHS is $97 billion. $87 billion of that funds everything from the TSA agents at our airports to Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster responses, cybersecurity units and the Coast Guard. The remaining $10 billion funds ICE.

Singing the low-down,

iam astonished to tell you that I just marked my 79th birthday.

No greetings and salutations, please. It’s a big number, and it weighs a ton. I’m standing on the threshold of lights-out and wondering how I got from then to now.

In 1949 I could walk under my parents’ dining room table. It was my special parlor trick. Then playground, school, dating, college, marriage, kids, grandkids and closing curtains.

I’m still short, but I can’t clear the tabletop. And that’s not all that has changed. Culture, politics, fashion, food and entertainment are often unrecognizable to me. Sometimes I feel estranged from “modern” life. As I write this out of my own brain, sharing my unadulterated, unimproved or revised thoughts, I’m being assaulted by prompts asking if I want “Copilot” to rework my sentences. I don’t know where Copilot came from and have no

Democrats have been saying for weeks that they will fund the $87 billion that doesn’t go to ICE right now. That would have ended the airport disaster, paid our TSA agents far earlier and kept the core functions of DHS operating. We would not vote to fund the other $10 billion for ICE, however, until there were real reforms.

While Republicans resisted at first, there was eventually enough consensus among both Democratic and Republican members of Congress to at least reopen the non-ICE agencies of DHS. But just as bipartisan negotiations in the Senate were making progress, President Trump intervened with a directive to his party: “No deals with the Democrats.”

To be precise, he outlawed deals with the “Crazy, Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats.”

That’s outrageous. Once again, that’s politics getting in the way of progress. Finger-pointing has been all too prevalent.

I have built my career on finding common ground for the common good. It has always been my philosophy that I’ll work with anyone, regardless of political party, to get things done for my constituents. As co-chair of the biparti-

san Problem Solvers Caucus, I’ve worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to tackle the nation’s toughest issues. Just a few months ago we passed legislation out of the House that extended health care tax credits to prevent skyrocketing premiums for millions. Unfortunately, then as now, the president got in the way, changing the debate from bipartisan health care wins to Venezuela and Greenland before the Senate could close the deal.

I represent a district that voted for Trump and for me. My constituents aren’t interested in partisan talking points — they want results. They want safe airports, secure borders, a functioning government and a lower cost of living. And they want their elected officials to work together to deliver.

People are concerned that the Department of Homeland Security has not been in the game. They’re outraged about the illegal and immoral behavior of ICE. And they’re frustrated that politicians are too busy pointing fingers to solve our problems.

We don’t have to choose between security and accountability. We can do both. We don’t have to accept dysfunction in Washington. And we certainly don’t have to tolerate political games when real people are being affected.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.

how-did-I-get-so-old blues

idea how to get rid of it. This isn’t a one-off experience. It’s daily combat with technology that threatens to drive me screaming from the house.

I’m barely exaggerating. Many friends are more adept with technology, but many more are less skilled. This is a constant challenge, whether I try to pay a bill or reach a doctor or, heaven forbid, get a copy of a document from the DMV.

Life is hard enough, what with approaching death and such. But add heaven knows how many streaming services when all you want to do is turn on the freaking TV for a half hour; it’s too much. With all the tools that are supposed to make life easier, it has undoubtedly become more complicated. And this isn’t just an oldster’s kvetch.

M y daily combat with technology threatens to drive me screaming from the house.

“Next time you can do better.” I want to be alone, and all day long I’m assailed by pings and rings and notifications ad nauseum. I talk to friends in real time and real space, and as I share my private thoughts with them, they’re talking to the watch on their wrist. This can’t be good for anyone.

I know this sounds like every older generation’s observations of the young, but in this case, really, you know I’m right. No one just sits and talks to one another anymore without a prop, like a phone.

We were inexperienced and naïve enough to feel wonder and delight in love and travel and having children. Now “parenting” seems like a burden to many young people, and indeed it is, with apps that track ovulation and breast milk availability. The technology hijacks the entire experience. You can’t do better as a parent by finding the exact time Baby will burp after feeding. What you can do is lose the joy of the moment.

Time was, I could go for a walk in peace and quiet, enjoying my own thoughts. Now I’m fully sucked into the need to do three things at once: walk, listen to a book while I read and answer messages, and have some app count my steps. I never signed on to this app, yet it has the nerve to tell me after a walk:

I think about my first encounters with boys when we were in grade school. We started and stumbled and learned to talk to one another, and then danced and then dated and made out in cars. Today I read story after story about how 20-somethings say that romance and dating are dead. Who killed it? Did we boomers somehow get the best of it? You know, right place, right time? The pace of life, the devices, the culture of increasing isolation are not working to make a better life for the grandkids.

From my vantage point, stepping into my 80th year, it’s been a pretty good life so far. These last years have brought some painful challenges, but the decades before provided a buffer of good memories and gratitude. We can’t travel right now, but it is said that real discovery isn’t looking for something new but seeing the same life with different eyes.

I believe with all my heart that for many of us boomers, the pandemic and its isolation, the separation from kids, grandkids and friends, robbed us of the years we might have eased into older age. And now we’re here. The best I can do is look at this moment, and it will be just a moment, with new eyes.

Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

Local News Day now means more than ever

Somewhere on Long Island tonight, a village board will vote on a zoning variance, a school district will finalize a budget or a contractor will win a bid. None of it will lead the network news or trend on social media. But it will matter — to the family whose street gets rezoned, to the teachers whose contract is on the line, to the taxpayers footing the bill.

In most cases, a Herald reporter will be in that room. But in too many communities across the country — and increasingly in our own backyard — that reporter’s chair sits empty. And when no one is watching, things have a way of going sideways.

April 9 is Local News Day, a national moment to recognize what local news does, why it matters, and what we lose when it disappears.

Local news isn’t the shouting matches on cable or the partisan warfare that passes for national political coverage. Local news is the Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Hewlett High School science fair. It’s the Nassau County budget hearing that will affect your property taxes for the next decade, the obituary that captures a neighbor’s life, and the investigation that stops a bad idea before it becomes law. At Richner Communications — publisher of the Long Island Herald — we’ve been doing this work since 1964. Sixty-two years, three generations, over 100 local employees, nearly 30 weekly newspapers.

The Founding Fathers understood the stakes. The free press is the only indus-

Your opinion Matters

try they considered important enough to protect by name in the Constitution. But we are failing that promise. Since 2004, one-third of all American newsrooms have closed. There are 43,000 fewer local reporters and editors working today than there were then. New York alone has lost nearly half its newspapers, and a quarter of the state’s counties now have one or no local news sources. Digital-only outlets have not filled the void.

Today, more than 2½ newspapers shutter in America each week. The consequences are documented and dire: Communities without local news see lower voter turnout, higher taxes and measurable increases in corruption, political polarization, and even toxic environmental emissions.

Wealth is no inoculation from this trend. The Scarsdale Inquirer was founded in 1901 and served one of the wealthiest communities in America for 123 years. It closed without warning in January 2024. The Westchester village — mirroring the demographics of many Long Island communities — still doesn’t have a newspaper over two years later.

Compounding this problem is the rise of artificial intelligence, which can now manufacture articles, quotes, and entire “news sites” that look authoritative and cost almost nothing to create. That means the news environment has only grown harder to navigate. Trusted news brands, with reporters who actually live and work in the communities they cover, are more important than ever. It’s the reason that we at the Herald use A.I. as a tool to support, not replace, the report-

ers you know and respect.

And yet the climate for news in America has rarely been more hostile than today. The United States now ranks 57th in the world in press freedom — labeled “problematic” by Reporters Without Borders, placing us alongside countries we’re accustomed to lecturing about democratic norms. Arrests of reporters and editors in America nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024. A national shield law for reporters has failed to pass Congress twice. Right now, the Pentagon is aggressively curtailing press access, a policy that flies in the face of a functioning democracy. The temperature in Washington sets a tone, and that tone travels — all the way to the reporters covering Long Island’s myriad municipal entities.

The Herald has always believed that local news is worth fighting for. It’s why we helped found the Empire State Local News Coalition, which won a first-of-itskind state tax credit for local newspapers. That legislation is already helping newspapers survive that might otherwise have gone dark, meaning that thousands of New Yorkers who might otherwise have lost their only trusted local news source still have one.

Every community gets the local news it deserves — which is to say, the local news it supports. If you want a paper that shows up, you have to show up for it. On Local News Day, make that decision. Subscribe. Advertise. Tell your neighbors. The Herald has been here for over a century. Whether we’re here for the next one is, in no small part, up to you.

opinions Navigating the state budget process

when I was elected, I accepted the responsibility of acting as a liaison between the constituency of Assembly District 21 and Albany, especially when it comes to how the state spends your money.

To be an effective legislator, it’s important to remain transparent about how these processes affect our communities, and to communicate the priorities of our district and Nassau County.

My goal has always been to address constituents’ needs through legislation, advocacy and the highly complex annual state budget process. It begins in January, when the governor releases the Executive Budget, a baseline spending plan that identifies all funding sources for the following year, starting a vigorous negotiation period.

Legislators discuss issues with a variety of state agency leaders, advocates and stakeholders in budget hearings that are necessary in order to gather information on how we can enhance the governor’s proposals. Afterward, the State Senate and Assembly respond by outlining resolutions, so-called “onehouse budgets.” Though not legislatively binding, they guide the governor, the Assembly speaker and the Senate

majority leader in their negotiations.

This year, some substantive issues continue to delay a final agreement, due to the considerable volume of policy involved. I welcome and share the correspondence I receive from constituents and the members of countless district and statewide organizations like local municipalities, law enforcement agencies, school districts, students, libraries, health care workers, labor unions and district attorneys.

rAbove all else, it’s clear that rising costs, often attributable to current events beyond the state’s jurisdiction that affect the entire country, are making it impossible for average middle-class families, young adults and senior citizens to thrive. Nevertheless, I work continuously with my colleagues to lighten people’s financial burden and deliver relief. Increased school funding, enhanced municipal aid and expanded funding for road maintenance help minimize local property taxes, while supporting our suburban quality of life.

dens on residents, while allowing time to phase in pragmatic and attainable environmental improvements.

Rising utility rates. Current events have resulted in rising gasoline prices and utility costs. I support proposals that will provide immediate relief and ensure that ratepayers see actual reductions in their utility expenses, instead of convoluted promises that don’t deliver.

ising costs are making it impossible for average middleclass families to thrive.

Addressing health care discrepancies and supporting aging populations. Access to quality, affordable health care is becoming less attainable for many in our communities, which results in increased costs for health insurance, hospital services, prescription medication and nursing facilities. I support increased aid to these health care providers.

impact state, municipal and school district budgets. Our public workforce is crucial, and our communities value our police, firefighters, teachers and other public servants.

Potential climate law revisions. When the ambitious Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act was enacted in 2019,we weren’t experiencing an affordability crisis coupled with supply-chain issues. The business sector maintains that these regulatory deadlines need to be re-examined to prioritize regional economic stability, while environmental advocates claim that any revision will increase energy costs and negatively impact the environment. Any changes to our climate laws must be both environmentally sound and fiscally responsible.

Here are the major issues in our budget negotiations:

School funding. I’m committed to ensuring that our schools receive equitable increases in foundation aid. Fully funding this aid enables schools to give students a robust education. It’s also necessary to halt the mandated transition to electric school buses on an unrealistic timeline to avoid additional tax bur-

Framework by Tim Baker

Reducing the escalating cost of auto insurance. Supporters of the governor’s auto insurance reforms have identified litigation abuse and fraudulent claims as key factors in skyrocketing rates. While I support measures that prosecute fraud, it is essential that seriously injured people are compensated.

Fixing Tier 6. There are many union households in A.D. 21 calling for equitable changes in public-employee pension programs. I agree with many proposals, but the cost for taxpayers must be considered, since these measures will

Modernizing the State Environmental Quality Review Act. It’s key to strike a balance between the need to increase the housing supply and provide jobs, resulting in economic vitality, and protecting the environment, promoting sustainable growth and ensuring that buildings don’t overload existing water infrastructure.

As we enter the final stage of this process, I’m fighting for a responsible budget that reflects the priorities of A.D. 21. Thank you to those who have shared your opinions with me, so that I can make sure your voice is heard in Albany.

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

The Results Speak for Themselves