Siblings Maeve McDonough, 7, and Owen McDonough, 4, dressed up in their best Halloween costumes for the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce Little Town Fall Festival on Oct. 18. Story, more photos, Page 3.
By WIll ShEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com
At Molloy University, environmental science professor Liz Suter is at the forefront of a genomic revolution in marine research, using environmental DNA to decode the hidden life of oceans and reshape how scientists monitor ecosystems, from Long Island bays to global waters. Suter, associate professor of environmental science at Molloy, who also conducts research at the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science at
Stony Brook University, has spent more than a decade studying how traces of genetic material left behind by marine organisms can unlock hidden details about ocean ecosystems.
She delved into the rapidly evolving science of environmental DNA, or eDNA, at the Friends of the Bay’s Brews and News event at the Oyster Bay Brewing Company.
“The ocean is a soup of its resident species’ genetic material,” she told attendees at the Oct. 15 event. “The concept behind environmental
By KElSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Aaliyah Corley, a 16-year-old Scout from Troop 163 in Rockville Centre, has earned every one of the 139 merit badges offered by Scouting America for boys and girls, a rare achievement that is the result of years of perseverance, curiosity and service. She is the first girl on Long Island, and the second in New York state, to mark the accomplishment.
Ifull pursuit of the entire Scouting America badge catalog, from common ones, like Camping and First Aid, to more obscure ones, such as Nuclear Science and Bugling.
“There are so many subjects that I would never even think about otherwise,” she said. “Like surveying, welding, mobile selling, awareness, survival, metal work — like, a lot of stuff — and you just get a survey of each of these things.”
f I could do it, I could also show other Scouts that they could do it too.
Corley is originally from Brazil, but moved with her family to Long Island four years ago and is homeschooled. She began her scouting journey after a video game sparked her curiosity.
A AlIyAh CoRlEy Scout, Troop 163
“When I was in Brazil, I used to play League of Legends,” she said, referring to Riot Games’ popular multiplayer online game, “and one of the characters is a Scout. So I was curious about what it was like being a Scout.”
Corley’s interest grew into a
Corley worked with a number of merit badge counselors, who guide Scouts in meeting the badges’ requirements. Some of her counselors are from Rockville Centre, which led her to Troop 163. She was invited to join in 2022, at which point she had already earned 36 merit badges.
“She’s been terrific, kind of like a role model for the other Scouts,” Steve Bo, scoutmaster of Troop 163, said. “You might think that someone who’s trying to achieve something so big, get so many merit badges,
Continued on page 6
The Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce held its Little fall festival this past weekend as a celebration of what the season and the village have to offer. Attendees spent the day on Oct. 18 shopping around different local vendors who set up tents and booths through the village’s Little Town business district, on North Long Beach Road. People showed up in vibrant and unique costumes to celebrate Halloween, and they jammed to the live music played throughout the event. Kids, friends, families and neighbors all played different games, like bean bag toss. There were other fun activities available, like raffles, giveaways and even a Halloween scavenger hunt to get in the spirit.
–Kelsie Radziski
Characters walked around the fair entertaining people and taking photos.
On Oct. 15, someone reported that an unknown person attempted to open a bank account using their personal information.
On Oct. 13, someone reported their package was stolen from their apartment building.
On Oct. 16, an employee of King Kullen reported someone stole merchandise.
On Oct. 16, Eduard Lopez, 28, of Freeport, was arrested and charged with Assault after an investigation
at Mercy Hospital for an incident in which he violently assaulted a Mercy Hospital security officer, causing him to suffer cardiac arrest and be hospitalized in critical condition.
On Oct. 16, Gaitano Cinelli, 57, of Elmont, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and additional Vehicle and Traffic Law offenses after an investigation on Seaman Avenue.
On Oct. 16, Oscar Mercado, 50, of Amityville, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operation of a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Registration, and additional Vehicle and Traffic Law offenses after an investigation on Sunrise Highway.
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.
Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital has been awarded the prestigious Pathway to Excellence designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, recognizing its commitment to creating a positive and empowering work environment for nursing staff.
The Pathway to Excellence designation is granted to health care organizations that demonstrate a culture where nurses are supported, valued, and provided with opportunities for professional development and growth. Mercy Hospital joins a select group of institutions nationwide to receive the honor.
“Congratulations to our nursing team on this tremendous and notable achievement,” said Christopher Ruppert, chief nursing officer at Mercy Hospital. “This designation is a reflection of our nurses’ passion and dedication, as well as our commitment to fostering a supportive environment where they can thrive. When our nurses are empowered, they provide the very best care to
our patients and community.”
To earn the designation, Mercy Hospital completed a comprehensive evaluation process, including detailed documentation, a review by the ANCC, and an anonymous nurse survey that yielded strong, positive feedback from staff. The designation affirms Mercy Hospital’s commitment to nursing excellence, staff well-being, and a healthy work culture.
“The Pathway to Excellence designation is more than an honor — it is a reflection of our culture,” said Joseph Manopella, president at Mercy Hospital.
“We are proud to provide a workplace where nurses thrive, because when our nurses are supported, our patients and community benefit as well.”
This recognition also highlights the support of The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation in promoting nursing innovation and strengthening care.
–Kelsie Radziski
(516)
(516)
would try to cut corners, but she never did. In fact, it was the opposite. Every time she would do a merit badge, she was always doing extra. The merit badge would introduce her to something and have some kind of requirement, and she would take it always one step further. So it’s really incredible what she’s done in these past few years.”
Corley described Hiking, Cycling and Backpacking as some of the most physically challenging badges. The Hiking badge required a 20-mile hike in one day, and the Backpacking badge required a five-day trip and overnights at three different campgrounds.
Her final badge was Water Sports, which she earned earlier this year, making her the 10th girl nationwide to check off all 139.
“It was a long journey to get there,” she said, “so I feel very accomplished.”
She continues to be active in her troop, and now serves as an instructor and mentor, helping younger Scouts with rank advancement and merit badge advice. Earlier this year, Bo said, Corley was elected by the other Scouts to be a trip guide as well.
Bo praised her for being a role model who consistently does more than is asked of her. “We’re just really proud of her,” he said. “She went above and beyond for everything. It’s just her nature. So it’s been a pleasure to have her in the troop, and she’s come on almost every camping trip or event that we’ve had.”
Corley emphasized the importance of determination, especially for Scouts who don’t rely on summer camps to complete badges. She highlighted the effort it takes not just to complete the requirements, but also to connect with the right
people and find merit badge counselors to help.
“If it’s your first badge, and you’re scared to do this first phone call, it’s OK,” she said for the benefit of Scouts looking to get started on their merit badge journey. “After you do 30 of them, it’s not hard at all. A lot of people just want to help.”
Aaliyah’s father, Andrew Corley, said the achievement was driven entirely by her own motivation.
“It takes an incredible amount of perseverance to do it, and it’s really impressive,” he said. “It’s not something that a parent can really push on their kid. They have to have the motivation themselves to do it, because the journey is just so long.”
From ski trips to surveying outings and orienteering challenges, Andrew said, the experience became a family journey as well.
“The great thing about being a parent to someone doing it is that she takes me on all these adventures that she’s planning,” he said.
Now Aaliyah is channeling her passion into a creative project: a novel titled “Plum Candy.” It’s a few months away from completion, but she balances her time in Scouting with her novel writing. Her journey, though rare, has already inspired her fellow troop members, and she hopes it encour ages others too.
“If I could do it,” she said, “I could also show other Scouts that they could do it, too.”
aaliyah Corley, 16, spent the past three years in rockville Centre troop 163 working on earning all 139 merit badges, which included a number of camping trips and other adventures.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 TH AT 9:30 A.M.
� Nurturing Environment: Our school embraces the fundamental values of love, compassion, and respect, fostering a nurturing environment where children can flourish and develop their unique talents and capabilities.
� Rigorous Academic Program: Enriched with the wisdom of faith, and modern teaching techniques, our curriculum ensures that each child receives a comprehensive education that challenges his/her intellect and encourages a love for learning.
� Spiritual Growth: Alongside a robust academic curriculum, we prioritize spiritual development, guiding children to understand the importance of faith, hope, and charity, laying the foundation for a life rooted in virtues and values.
� Creative Expression: Through various art, music, and creative activities, we encourage fostering a well-rounded education that embraces the arts as an integral part of personal growth.
� Community Engagement: Our school community is a tight-knit family. We believe in the strength of a supportive community to help children thrive and grow
� State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our STEM Center includes a science lab, STEM lab, Maker Space, and Art Room. Our modern facilities and classrooms are designed to create an engaging and stimulating learning environment, fostering curiosity and innovation among our young learners.
St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council 2548 proudly welcomed six members who were recently exemplified into the Fourth Degree of the Knights of Columbus, the highest and most patriotic degree in the Order, according to Grand Knight Joe D’Aleo.
The new Sir Knights are Deputy Grand Knight Christopher Dunn, Chancellor John Madson, Financial Secretary Arthur Orzano, John Sullivan, Ed McNulty and David Ross. All six partici-
pated in a newly structured Fourth Degree Exemplification ceremony that drew praise for its organization and spirit.
With this latest exemplification, St. Agnes Council has now added eight new Fourth Degree members over the past two years. Among them is D’Aleo himself, who also serves as a member of the Fourth Degree Honor Guard.
–Kelsie Radziski
EAST MEADOW Senior FIELD HOCKEY
PICKING UP WHERE she left off last fall when she earned All-County honors, Ventura has reached new heights while leading the Jets to a 10-2 start in Nassau Conference II field hockey. Through Oct. 16, the Adelphi University bound standout was leading the county in goals with 20 to go along with 8 assists. She began 2025 with a bang, scoring all three of East Meadow’s goals in a win over New Hyde Park. Ventura has more than 50 career goals.
Friday, Oct. 24
Football: Seaford at Island Trees
Football: Farmingdale at Port Washington
Football: Freeport at Oceanside
Football: Sewanhaka at Division
Football: Hempstead at Plainview
Football: Hewlett at Manhasset
Football: Long Beach at MacArthur
Football: East Meadow at Glen Cove
Football: Plainedge at Malverne
Saturday, Oct. 25
Football: South Side at V.S. South 11 a.m.
Football: Wantagh at Carey
Football: Clarke at Floral Park
Football: V.S. North at Elmont
Football: Garden City at Calhoun
Football: Baldwin at Mepham
Football: New Hyde Park at Kennedy 2 p.m.
Football: Roslyn at V.S. Central 2 p.m.
Football: Lynbrook at C.S. Harbor 2 p.m.
Football: East Rockaway at Locust Valley 2 p.m.
Football: West Hempstead at North Shore 2 p.m.
Football: Lawrence at Oyster Bay
Football: Syosset at Massapequa 3
Football: Herricks at Uniondale 3 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com
South Side’s field hockey team, in its inaugural varsity season, is on a heater. The program was at the JV level last year and has made quite the impression with a rise to varsity.
“The girls are doing a great job adapting to the higher pace game, the girls honestly put a lot of work in over the summer to keep up with the varsity level,” coach Angelica Gargiulo said.
The program was born when a group of girls approached the school board ahead of the 2023 school year about starting a field hockey team, according to Gargiulo. With enough signatures and student interest, by May of 2024, the motion was approved.
The Cyclones are off to an incredible debut varsity campaign with a 10-2 record, with several statement wins to their name: the first win of the season was a 5-0 thumping over Oyster Bay on Sept 5, and a six-game win streak which saw four consecutive shutouts by star goalie Tara Cody.
In the win over Oyster Bay, Hailey Spillane, Charlotte Thomson, Kelsey Cavanaugh and Madalyn Napolitano shone as early indicators of who would dazzle as the season continued. Spillane, a returner from last year, splashed early by scoring 20 seconds into that game against Oyster Bay.
Spillane has 7 goals so far, Austen Finegan has 4, and Thomson and Napolitano have 2 each.
What keeps the Cyclones flowing is their connection, which Gargiulo marvels at.
“Even though this is only their second season together, the
girls played like a team with years of experience,” she said.
“When the final whistle blew, they were so excited, rushing to celebrate with our goalie who earned a shutout.”
As a coach, I was incredibly proud, it was the perfect way to open the season and showed how much hard work they’ve put in,” Gargiulo said. “The biggest takeaway was how connected and confident they looked as a team right from the start.”
Little did the team know, that it would be the first of several shutouts.
Cody, a senior and a lacrosse goalie in nature, put up four shutouts between Sept. 18 and 27. While Cody deserves lots of credit, with her 31 saves, she doesn’t get all the cake.
The offense, in the meantime, keeps a lead foot on the gas. In that same four-game streak, the Cyclones combined for 17 goals. Skye Korten leads the way with 4, Charly Testerman and Hailey Spillane had a hat trick each, and over half a dozen players had solo shots find the back of the net. Anybody is a threat at any given moment.
In a statement 2-1 win over East Meadow Oct. 8, the girls once again demonstrated their willingness to word hard and work together. Korten and Testerman had the goals and Cody made 7 saves.
“The last time we faced them [East Meadow], it was a tough overtime game that ended in a shootout loss, so the team was determined to come back stronger,” Gargiulo said. “They worked hard in practice and really showed up, especially with it being Senior Night. Everyone played with hustle and heart, and they earned this win.”
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DNA, or eDNA, is … that as organisms move through water, they shed cells, and they shed DNA.”
Environmental DNA, Suter explained, works similarly to forensic DNA analysis. By collecting and filtering samples of seawater, scientists can analyze this genetic material to identify species in the environment, from microbes to megafauna, without ever seeing or capturing them.
Researchers use “metabarcodes,” or molecular markers, to target groups of organisms, such as fish or invertebrates. They make it possible for scientists to take what Suter described as a “broad genetic snapshot” of ocean life. Early studies using this approach revolutionized the understanding of marine biodiversity.
“We discovered that there was 100 times more biodiversity than expected,” Suter said. “So we discovered that in 2006 that most of the biodiversity is driven by things that are very rare.”
The discovery sparked a wave of global research initiatives, such as the Global Ocean Sampling Expedition and the Tara Oceans Expedition, in which scientists collected and analyzed DNA from ocean water around the world. The studies helped uncover how microscopic organisms shape global processes like carbon sequestration.
“We now know that oceans contribute significantly to carbon sequestration,” Suter said, “and the amount of carbon that the ocean can soak up depends on what microbes are there.”
She also highlighted another critical finding: the existence of “cryptic cycles”: rapid, hidden biochemical exchanges between microorganisms that traditional chemical measurements had missed.
With the help of advanced genomic tools, researchers have found that many marine microorganisms produce bioactive compounds with untapped potential for use in medicine and biotechnology. Even viruses, Suter noted, play a significant role in maintaining the delicate balance of ocean chemistry.
“There’s 10 times more viruses in the ocean than
even bacteria,” she said. “They’re also contributing to biogeochemical cycling.”
Her own work has taken her from the Hudson River to the Caribbean Sea and, more recently, back to Long Island’s South Shore and New York Harbor. One of her projects focuses on oxygen-limited regions of the ocean, which comprise only about 1 percent of ocean volume but are vital to understanding early life on Earth and modern biogeochemical cycles.
“These oxygen-limited zones are expanding,” Suter said. “Their expansion is a global issue, driven by nitrogen pollution and climate change.”
Closer to home, she described a collaboration with the Billion Oyster Project, a New York City-based restoration initiative. Her team at Molloy used DNA sequencing to study oyster microbiomes in restoration sites around the city, including Lemon Creek Lagoon and Sunset Park.
Oysters, Suter said, are critical to marine ecosystems because they filter water and provide habitat that helps protect coastlines from storm surges. Yet oysters today face microbial communities vastly different from those of the preindustrial era.
Using compact DNA sequencers, her team developed a portable genomic monitoring tool that can be used by restoration groups. In their pilot project, they compared microbiomes of healthy and unhealthy oysters, revealing how the presence or absence of certain microbial species correlated with oyster health.
A diseased oyster’s microbiome, she said, “was primarily three different species,” including a known fish pathogen. A healthy oyster, by contrast, had a much more diverse microbial community, including beneficial probiotic species.
The findings suggest that tracking oyster microbiomes could offer early warning signs for restoration projects, potentially improving survival rates.
Suter’s research also extends to larger organisms. In partnership with the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science, she uses eDNA to study fish and other marine life in Shinnecock and Great South bays, where restoration and aquaculture efforts are underway.
In one recent project, researchers deployed an uncrewed surface vehicle, an autonomous “robot boat” equipped with an eDNA sampler, to collect water samples in Shinnecock Bay. Over the course of two weeks, it gathered nearly 100 samples, and identified more than 160 invertebrate species and 55 types of fish, including endangered rays and even a mako shark that had only been rumored by local baymen.
“Baymen had talked apocryphally about makos in the bay because they found bite marks in their cages, but nobody had ever actually seen it,” Suter said. “We can see it with the eDNA.”
Her work underscores how eDNA is transforming marine science, offering unprecedented insight into biodiversity, ecosystem health and environmental change. The technology is increasingly affordable and accessible, allowing smaller organizations, and even citizen scientists, to take part in monitoring efforts.
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY Correspondent
The American Legion Post 303 celebrated its annual Law and Order Night with an award reception and dinner.
This year’s award recipients, both serving the Rockville Centre community, were Inspector Chris Romance from the Police Department and Honorary Chief Robert Winum from the Fire Department.
Romance received an engraved shotgun from American Tactical, while Winum received an engraved axe as emblems of their continued service and support to the village.
Tokened as the “pinnacle event of the year” by Post 303’s Vice Commander Paul Casazza, the distinctions highlight their century-long value of “commitment to serving and protecting.”
Chris Romance has always “done it for the community” as he calls it, having served the Rockville Centre community for nearly three decades. Police Commissioner Randy Dodd called Romance his “right-hand-man” and his service “a gift.”
“Every leader needs a soldier at his
side,” Commissioner Dodd said in his speech at the Oct. 10 event, “someone who sees the battlefield clearly, who never hesitates, and never backs down.”
Romance graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and is now the highest ranking officer and executive officer for the police department.
The 20-year supervisor is tasked with overseeing several programs, including Rockville Centre’s emergency management response, homeland security mission, and overseeing the town’s new drone command program. Romance also holds the title of “master trainer,” a distinction for being the instructor of 17 different training programs.
brightest, and built the system that keeps the (police department) battleready every single day.” Dodd said of Romance’s commitment and sacrifice. “We are not just recognizing one man’s career — we are recognizing the results of his dedication to Rockville Centre.”
E very leader needs a soldier at his side, someone who sees the battlefield clearly, who never hesitates, and never backs down
R ANDY DoDD Police Commissioner, Rockville Centre
Through Romance’s leadership, Rockville Centre has been recognized as one of New York’s safest and most prosperous communities in a statewide report.
“Chris has trained the best, led the
Similar to years past, this year’s Fire Department selection process involved joint approval from Rockville Centre’s seven companies. These companies vote on and sponsor a member from their respective companies. The final seven candidates are then adjudicated on “strict committee standards,” per Assistant Chief Brian O’Toole.
Robert Winum, this year’s final honoree, holds decades of experience and is a beloved member of Alert Engine Company 2.
Both O’Toole and Engine Company Captain Jesse Keane said there was no one “more deserving of the award” and
described Winum as “a good person.”
“During his many years of dedicated service, Chief Windham has put himself in harm’s way to protect the life and property of the village of Rockville Center.” Keane said of Winum’s service.
Keane also thanked Post 303 for “recognizing the years of dedicated service Chief Windham has devoted to his country and to his community.”
Winum served as an Army Medic Chief in the Vietnam War from 1963 to 1965, before returning to the firehouse he’s helped serve the community in since 1962. Over his 53-year service, Winum served as the company treasurer from 1966 to 1976, and he was also company secretary in 1968.
Since 1968, Winum has served on five committees, and has accrued certifications from 16 fire training courses. He is now serving as a trustee for the department’s exemption benevolent association.
Law and Order Night is one of American Legion Post 303’s most beloved events since they were chartered in 1919, and it continues to welcome veterans from all branches of the United States armed forces.
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Nicole Aloise, a Democrat running for Nassau County district attorney, is focusing her campaigning on public safety, community investment, and experience forged in courtrooms.
“I firmly believe in the job of a prosecutor,” she said. “It’s all I’ve done in my career.”
Aloise, 41, has worked as a prosecutor for 16 years in both Nassau and Queens, most recently as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her legal career in 2008 after graduating from St. John’s University School of Law. While in Queens, she secured more than 20 violent felony convictions and helped establish case law by making use of NYPD body camera footage for the first time in a trial in New York City.
Aloise moved with her family from Astoria to Garden City in 2019. From 2019 to 2023, she prosecuted homicides and violent felonies as senior litigation counsel in the Nassau D.A.’s office. She returned to Queens for a brief period before stepping down in 2024 to launch her campaign.
Despite its staff of hundreds, one of the largest D.A.’s offices in the country, it has fallen behind, Aloise said. “The office now being run,” she said, “is not appropriate for a 2025 D.A.’s office.”
She criticized what she called a lack of courtroom experience in the office’s current leadership, and said that has led to high staff turnover. The issues that are central to her platform include strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau, especially when it comes to antisemitic and anti-Asian attacks; sup-
porting a statewide “death by dealer” law to hold drug suppliers accountable in fatal overdoses; and increasing funding for youth, mental health and violence prevention programs.
Aloise has also pledged to pursue tougher prosecutions in drunken-driving cases, and expanding cooperation
‘It’s been my life’s work,’
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
For Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, pursuing justice and supporting crime victims isn’t just a job — it’s a passion.
“It’s been my life’s work,” she said. “I have worked in every bureau in the office. I have been a boss, a supervisor, and I’m very passionate about what we do.”
Donnelly, 61, a Republican and a longtime prosecutor, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become district attorney — the fourth consecutive woman to hold the office. A Garden City resident who graduated from Fordham Law School in 1989, she is seeking a second term on a platform of public safety, gang enforcement and law enforcement support.
Since taking office in 2022, Donnelly has created three county law enforcement units. The Firearms Suppression and Intelligence Unit, focuses on illegal gun sales and weapons trafficking. “We’ve had an uptick of guns being taken off the street, and I wanted to know why,” she said. The Pharmaceutical Diversion and Cybercrimes Unit targets opioid diversion by medical professionals and prosecutes cybercrimes, including dark web activity. The Hate
with local police departments. “I’ve got the best experience to be in this job,” she said, “because I won’t be asking anybody to do something I myself personally haven’t done, and I will know what resources and guidelines to put into place to make sure they’re successful.”
Like the Republican incumbent, Anne Donnelly, Aloise has criticized New York’s 2020 discovery and bail reform laws. “It absolutely makes our job harder,” she said. “I’ve been outspoken about these laws since prior to their inception.”
But, she noted, she successfully worked under the same rules in Queens, and argued that the county badly needs an upgraded functioning discovery system. “They have one in Queens,” she added. “They have one in Suffolk.”
“I won’t run a stagnant office,” Aloise said. “I’ve got the passion, I’ve got the energy and I’ve got the vision to make the Nassau’s district attorney’s office one of the premier offices in the country — because we have the resources, if used correctly.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly is seeking a second term as the county’s top prosecutor.
Crimes Unit is tasked with investigating bias-motivated violence and boosting community outreach, training and reporting.
“There’s always going to be crime,” Donnelly said. “The important aspect of maintaining or keeping Nassau safe
is to target the crimes that we see increases in.” She has been an outspoken critic of New York state’s bail reform and Clean Slate laws, which she described “problematic,” and argued they allow repeat offenders back onto the streets.
She also raised concerns about the state’s discovery reform law, passed in 2020, which requires prosecutors to quickly share evidence with defense attorneys. Under the law, prosecutors originally had 20 to 35 days after a defendant’s arraignment, depending on pretrial custody, to provide all evidence — with a possible 30-day extension.
“It’s not like we’re trying to hide anything from them,” Donnelly said. “Getting all the information within the window is the challenge.” A 2025 amendment now allows cases to proceed if prosecutors show “good faith and due diligence” in providing evidence.
On the subject of the 2019 bail reform law, which eliminated cash bail for many non-violent offenses, she pointed to aggravated animal abuse and DWI as examples of “violent and dangerous” offenses that don’t meet the law’s definition of violence.
With nearly 250 attorneys and a staff of more than 450, the Nassau County district attorney’s office is one of the largest in the country. Donnelly said that her management experience stands in contrast to her challenger in next month’s election, Democrat Nicole Aloise. “She’s a very nice person, but has never managed one person,” Donnelly said. “I don’t think she’s the person for it. I think I am.”
More than 40 young artists in grades 3 through 8 gathered at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center on Sunday, Oct. 19, for the annual Halloween Mural Painting Contest, transforming blank mural paper into festive and spooky works of art.
Working in teams of two to four, participants had
two and a half hours to bring their Halloween visions to life using paint and materials provided by the Recreation Department. The event featured five judging categories, with medals awarded to standout murals. Alongside the painting fun, students enjoyed seasonal activities, a goody bag, a soft pretzel and a drink.
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The winning murals will be displayed at the Recreation Center throughout the fall, bringing Halloween spirit to the community. Organizers praised the creativity and teamwork on display, calling the event a great success.
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Katherine Fritz became the new regional president and CEO of the Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank, a Long Island Cares nonprofit that benefits people dealing with food insecurity, on Oct. 8.
Fritz has over 30 years of experience working for nonprofits. She joined LIC in 2019, just before the coronavirus pandemic began, which left many Long Islanders dealing with food insecurity.
“During that really crazy time period, I had to help the organization move forward quickly with fundraising and communicating with our donors about how money was being spent,” she said.
Fritz told the Herald that her leadership will prioritize patience, understanding and stability while pursuing the group’s goal of eliminate hunger on Long Island. “The mission of the organization is always going to be at the forefront of everything I do,” she said.
Crawford estimated that Fritz, as a fundraiser, managed to bring in $8 million for the organization in five years, which was “a testament to how hard she works, how she builds her team and stewards our donors,” Crawford said.
“After a nationwide search, the Board of Directors of Long Island Cares found its next leader down the hall from the boardroom,” board President David Herold stated in a news release. “She will lead us in meeting the ever-increasing need ahead, which is what the battle against the challenging climate surrounding food insecurity requires.
I think we are going to be able to help a lot more people
KIm
CRAwfORD Marketing director, Long Island Cares
Before Fritz’s appointment, she was the organization’s vice president for development and communications. Her predecessor, Paule Pachter, retired earlier this year after serving for 17 years.
Marketing Director Kim Crawford has known Fritz from her beginnings at LIC. “She has a passion and a kindness that she is able to balance with her leadership, which is why she has such an incredible team now,” Crawford said. “I think we are going to be able to help a lot more people.”
“We believe that with her steady hand on the tiller, our mission will be advanced and the future of the people we serve will be brighter,” Herold added.
Fritz’s major goals include increased collaboration among more than 300 LIC food pantries, schools and community centers, supporting advocacy efforts and addressing the root causes of hunger — all while making LIC’s 2025-30 financial plans into realities.
“We’re in another critical time for food banking with the current government shutdown, in addition to the federal cuts that have already been enacted,” she said. “We need to focus on ensuring that we can provide appropriate food to the people in the community that are really needing assistance right now.”
Heading into the holiday season, LHC plans to provide healthy food for people of all cultural backgrounds and dietary restrictions in Long Island’s
diverse communities.
“There’s so many ways for people to help support their neighbors,” Fritz said.
To volunteer, donate or find food, visit LICares.org.
Candidate profiles, ballot Information and more inside! LOCAL ELECTIONS
on the issues:
Lynbrook resident Laura Ryder brings deep community roots and decades of civic engagement to her role on the Hempstead Town Board. Appointed in March 2023 after serving as a Lynbrook Village Trustee, Ryder’s approach to governance blends hands-on public service with fiscal responsibility and a focus on neighborhood quality of life.
A paralegal at Ledwith and Atkinson and a real estate agent with Pearsall Partners Realty, Ryder combines professional know-how with a passion for helping others. During her time as village trustee, she helped manage village finances through the pandemic, championed small business growth, and supported efforts to create new housing that complemented Lynbrook’s character. Ryder’s civic leadership extends beyond
local government. She previously served on the South Nassau Water Authority and the American Water Company Community Outreach Committee, where she advocated for fair utility rates. She also represented Lynbrook on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Council, strengthening communication between residents and law enforcement.
As founder and chair of Lynbrook Cares, Ryder leads volunteers who assist seniors and residents with disabilities through home and yard maintenance projects. She also supports families in crisis through the Lynbrook Community Chest and has lent her time to numerous community causes, including the 9/11 Memorial Committee, Christopher’s Hemophilia Benefit, and the Lynbrook Beautification Committee.
Kate Murray is running for re-election as Town Clerk of Hempstead. She was first elected to the position in 2002 and returned to the office in 2019 after serving as Hempstead Town Supervisor from 2003 to 2016, making her the first woman to hold the position.
She has also served in the New York State Assembly representing the 19th District.
on the issues:
As Town Clerk, Murray has focused on improving accessibility and convenience for residents. Her initiatives include the “One-Stop Passport Shop,” online access to permits and licenses and commuter parking permits available directly at LIRR stations. She oversaw the construction of a $6 million multipurpose center for the ANCHOR Program, which offers programs in
athletics, aquatic activities, theater, computer skills, nutrition and social engagement. Murray’s office has also advanced renewable energy initiatives, including a green energy park and a solarpowered government office recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency for its zeroemission design. The Town Clerk’s Office handles vital records, marriage licenses, permits, public notices, town board records, official records and historical archives dating back to 1644. The office also performs wedding ceremonies and processes applications for zoning changes, public garages, and other municipal permits.
Democratic candidate Yveline Dalmacy has not responded to requests for an interview for a roundtable.
Republican John Ferretti, appointed Hempstead Town Supervisor in August following Don Clavin’s resignation, is running to retain the position with a focus on fiscal discipline, public safety, and community values.
on the issues:
A former Nassau County legislator, Ferretti, a lifelong Levittown resident, has emphasized his record of opposing tax increases and supporting responsible budgeting. During his tenure, he led efforts to reduce county taxes by $70 million and block $150 million in proposed hikes. He has said government should operate within its means, similar to the financial discipline of local families.
Ferretti’s platform highlights a commitment to maintaining public safety and supporting law enforcement. As a legislator, he helped expand police presence, reopen a closed precinct, and invest in advanced public safety technology. He also worked with town
officials to increase patrols at houses of worship and co-authored legislation to prevent individuals from concealing their identities during acts of intimidation.
In addition to his focus on safety and fiscal management, Ferretti has positioned himself as a defender of suburban neighborhoods, opposing proposals for high-density housing developments he believes would alter the character of local communities.
Before his election to public office, Ferretti served as Chief Deputy County Clerk, overseeing a staff of more than 100 employees and managing over $240 million in annual revenue.
Ferretti has also prioritized strengthening community infrastructure and ensuring that development and town policies reflect the needs and values of local residents, supporting initiatives that preserve open spaces and enhance the quality of life in Hempstead.
Democrat Joe Scianablo, a Marine combat veteran, former NYPD officer, and prosecutor, is running for Town of Hempstead supervisor with a pledge to restore transparency, lower taxes, and hold local government accountable.
Scianablo, a Garden City resident, says families across the town are feeling the strain of rising costs, from a 12 percent property tax hike to increases in water, power, and fuel bills. He is calling for a full financial audit of all departments, a freeze on nonessential spending, and new measures to root out waste and corruption.
on the issues:
Joseph Scianablo Party: Democrat
If elected, Scianablo said his first 100 days would include converting all town streetlights to LED to save $1 million annually, implementing zero-based budgeting where every dollar is justified, and exploring shared services with nearby towns to eliminate duplicate
costs. His platform emphasizes “commonsense solutions,” including proactive infrastructure maintenance, performance-based funding, and energy efficiency upgrades. He has also vowed to hold monthly town halls and establish resident oversight to keep taxpayers informed. Scianablo said improving public safety and supporting veterans would also be key priorities. Drawing on his law enforcement background, he aims to strengthen trust between communities and public safety departments. As a Marine veteran, he wants to expand access to healthcare, housing, and employment programs for fellow veterans.
He has also criticized the closure of the Safe Center and pledged to expand domestic violence services by working with Nassau County and community partners.
Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is seeking a second term, emphasizing public safety, fiscal stability and preserving suburban character as the foundation of his administration. He said Nassau remains the safest large county in America, citing expanded law enforcement ranks, a stable budget and seven Wall Street bond-rating upgrades as evidence of sound fiscal management. Blakeman has repeatedly highlighted that county taxes have not increased during his tenure and that Nassau’s average home value has risen, which he sees as proof of prosperity and stability.
A central point of pride for Blakeman has been Nassau’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — the first of its kind in the country — which dedicates jail space and crosstrained detectives to assist federal agents. He said the agreement improves safety and has strong support among Hispanic residents who want “safe
neighborhoods and strong schools.” On crime prevention, Blakeman defended his creation of a volunteer emergency database, which critics have called a militia, describing it instead as a vetted roster of former police and military members who could be mobilized Blakeman continues to challenge the state’s takeover of Nassau University Medical Center, calling it “illegal” and harmful to residents who rely on it as a safetynet hospital. He contends the move is part of a broader state plan to reduce local control and diminish services. On housing, he opposes state-mandated density requirements, arguing that Nassau is already one of the nation’s most developed suburban counties and that zoning decisions should remain local.
Overall, Blakeman’s campaign message centers on fiscal prudence, public safety and protecting Nassau’s suburban quality of life.
Democratic Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow, of Merrick, is running for county executive on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal accountability and restoring public trust in local government.
A former Queens assistant district attorney and small business owner, Koslow said his decision to run was motivated by frustration over what he views as secrecy and mismanagement under the current administration. He cited ongoing problems at Nassau University Medical Center and the county jail as examples of a government unwilling to answer questions or plan for the future.
Koslow criticized County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a civilian militia, saying it undermines law enforcement and creates liability, and argued that Nassau’s shortage of detectives poses a more urgent safety threat. On fiscal issues, he said the county must better track its spending, cut
waste and redirect resources toward infrastructure, housing and public services. He supports using county-owned properties for new mixed-use housing and simplifying the permit process for small businesses to boost local revenue without raising taxes. Koslow also said he would end Nassau’s cooperation agreement with federal immigration authorities, arguing it strains community relations and overextends county resources.
On social policy, he has rejected measures like the county’s bans on transgender athletes and public masking as divisive distractions from more pressing issues of affordability and public safety. His approach, he said, would emphasize collaboration with state and regional leaders, community input on major development projects such as the Nassau Hub, and long-term planning to keep future generations living and working on Long Island.
Elaine Phillips, the Republican Nassau County Comptroller, is seeking re-election on a platform centered on fiscal responsibility, government efficiency, and taxpayer protection. Since taking office in 2022, she has focused on modernizing Nassau County’s financial systems, strengthening oversight of county spending, and ensuring residents receive measurable value for their tax dollars.
payments owed to Nassau County, identified inefficiencies in procurement and contract management, and implemented updated auditing procedures to prevent waste and fraud. She has also emphasized modernization, leading efforts to digitize accounting systems.
A former New York State senator representing the 7th District, Phillips previously served as mayor of Flower Hill, where she managed local budgets and enacted cost-saving reforms. Before entering public office, she built a successful career in finance with senior roles at J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and MetLife, bringing private-sector expertise to government operations.
As comptroller, Phillips has prioritized accountability and transparency in county finances. Her office has recovered millions in outstanding
On the issues: Phillips has focused on strengthening fiscal stability, monitoring contract performance, and scrutinizing the county’s partnerships with major public entities such as the MTA. She has also overseen audits addressing delayed payments to small businesses and service providers, ensuring timely reimbursements and greater financial clarity. Phillips points to her background in both finance and local government as key to her pragmatic approach to fiscal management. She has emphasized longterm planning, responsible borrowing, and efficiency-driven reforms designed to safeguard public resources.
Wayne Wink, the Democratic candidate for Nassau County Comptroller, is running on a platform centered on transparency, fiscal integrity, and restoring independence to the county’s chief financial office. With more than two decades of public service, he brings extensive legislative and administrative experience to the race.
Wayne Wink Party: Democrat
A resident of Roslyn, Wink began his career in local government on the North Hempstead Town Board, where he served from 2003 to 2007. He was later elected to the Nassau County Legislature, representing the 10th District from 2007 to 2014, which includes parts of Great Neck, East Hills, Roslyn, and Manhasset. During his tenure, he developed a reputation for fiscal diligence and constituent advocacy, focusing on responsible budgeting and government accountability.
In 2014, Wink was elected North Hempstead Town Clerk, a position he held until 2021. In that role, he oversaw
modernization of the town’s recordkeeping and licensing systems, implemented digital accessibility initiatives, and ensured compliance with open government and transparency laws. His administrative experience as clerk further solidified his focus on efficiency
On the issues: Wink has framed his campaign for comptroller around independence and transparency. He emphasizes the need for unbiased financial oversight, ensuring that county contracts, audits, and expenditures are handled with integrity and free from political influence. His platform includes expanding digital access to county financial data, improving internal controls, and strengthening collaboration with local municipalities to enhance fiscal efficiency. Wink holds a bachelor’s degree from Union College and a law degree from St. John’s University School of Law.
Ejecutivo del Condado
Amendment to Allow Olympic Sports Complex In Essex County on State Forest Preserve Land. Allows skiing and related trail facilities on state forest preserve land. The site is 1,039 acres. Requires State to add 2,500 acres of new forest land in Adirondack Park. A yes vote authorizes new ski trails and related facilities in the Adirondack forest preserve. A no vote does not authorize this use.
Enmienda para Permitir Complejo Olímpico de Deportes En el Condado de Essex en Tierra de Reserva Forestal Estatal. Permite el esquí e instalaciones relacionadas de pistas en tierra de reserva forestal estatal. El sitio es de 1,039 acres. Requiere que el Estado añade 2,500 acres de nueva tierra forestal en el Parque Adirondack. Un voto afrmativo autoriza nuevas pistas de esquí e instalaciones relacionadas en la reserva forestal Adirondack. Un voto negativo no autoriza este uso.
DEM,MOD
Seth I. Koslow REP,CON Bruce A. Blakeman
Fiscal del Distrito
DEM, MOD Nicole Aloise REP, CON Anne T. Donnelly
Controlador del Condado
DEM, MOD Wayne H. Wink, Jr. REP, CON Elaine R. Phillips
Secretario
DEM, MOD
Joylette E. Williams REP, CON Maureen C. O’Connell
Supervisor
DEM, MOD Joe Scianablo REP, CON
John R. Ferretti
Surrogate
actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to refect all the districts within the communities covered edition of the Herald. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the Herald may be found at under the Elections ’25 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com
Hempstead Council Member
Dorothy L. Goosby REP, CON Jean-Baptiste Carelus
Hempstead Town Clerk
Secretario Municipal
(1)
Howard E. Sturim DEM, REP, CON
Nancy Nicotra Bednar
Donald X. Clavin, Jr.
One (1) MOD Yveline L. Dalmacy REP, CON Kate Murray
County Legislator
Legislador del Condado Distrito 1
for One (1) REP, CON M. Davis C harlene Jackson Thompson
Justice of the Supreme Court
la Corte Suprema
for Eight (8) REP, CON
Kenny
Mark A. Cuthbertson
Margaret C. Reilly
Joseph C. Pastoressa
Surrogate
Tribunal Sucesorio
CON
David P. Sullivan
Robert G. Bogle
REP, CON Robert E. Pipia
REP, CON Maria Boultadakis
Steven A. Pilewski
James W. Malone
Carl J. Copertino Bronwyn M. Black-Kelly
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 54
Legal career: Nancy Nicotra Bednar is a lifelong Nassau County resident raised in Elmont. She lives in Rockville Centre.
A 1993 Notre Dame graduate with a bachelor’s in English, she graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York City in 1996 She has over 25 years of legal experience working with the Innocence Project to her leadership roles in the Nassau County Attorney’s Office and state courts.
In 2003, Bednar became a deputy bureau chief-for the General Litigation Bureau in the County Attorney’s office until 2008. Then a senior principal law clerk for Appellate DivisionSecond Department She is now a principal law clerk in the County Supreme Court
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 68
Legal career: Bogle has served as a New York judge for over 40 years and began his term after election in 2015. He also serves as a supervising judge of the Village Courts in the county. He received his law degree from Hofstra University in 1982 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in political science from Niagara University in 1979. Bogle has received awards such as the Magistrate of the Year Award from the State of New York in 2006 and the Frank J. Santagata Memorial Award from the Nassau County Magistrates Association in 2008. A lifelong resident of Valley Stream, he and his wife, Kathleen, have two children. He is a Knights of Columbus member.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 56
Legal career: Donald X. Clavin Jr. is the former Town of Hempstead Supervisor who served almost 3 terms from 2020-2025. He stepped down in August. Clavin was the Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes from 20012019.
Previously Clavin worked as a trial attorney and as deputy county attorney in Nassau County’s Attorney’s office. Clavin holds a law degree from Hofstra University and a bachelor’s in history from Canisius College. Clavin lives in Garden City with his wife and two children. He has stated “tax relief” as his top priority. He also helped develop the town’s 2019 and proposed 2020 budgets, including tax cuts. He has also hosted public information forums
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 61
Legal career: Robert E. Pipia is a judge on the Nassau County District Court in the 10th Judicial District of New York. He was first elected in 2014.
Before that, Pipia was the executive assistant to then Town of Hempstead Supervisor’s Office. This followed his work as deputy town attorney for the town’s Attorney’s Office where he served as the Americans with Disabilities Act compliance coordinator.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNY Albany in 1987, and earned his law degree from Hofstra University in 1992. He was licensed in New York in 1993.
Born in Queens and raised in Elmont, he attended the Henry Viscardi School.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties
Age: 39
Legal career: Maria Boultadakis is a candidate for district court judge in Nassau County’s 2nd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2012 and is registered with the New York State Unified Court System. She earned her law degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. Boultadakis has served as a law clerk for three New York State Supreme Court justices, and she also held the position of deputy county attorney in Nassau County from 2022 to 2023.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 55
Legal career: Karen L. Moroney serves as a judge in the Nassau County District Court, first elected in 2007, she was re-elected in 2013 and is currently serving a five-year term that expires at the end of this year.
Since 2017, she has also served as principal law clerk to Justice Sharon M.J. Gianelli of the Nassau County Supreme Court, and previously held similar roles for three other county Supreme Court justices. Her legal experience includes work as an attorney for the state Supreme Court and as an assistant district attorney in Queens County from 1992 to 1999.
Moroney earned her law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and was admitted to the bar in 1992. She is also admitted to practice before multiple federal courts.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 41
Legal career: Diana Hedayati is an attorney based in Plainview and a candidate for district Court judge in Nassau County’s 3rd District. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2010 by the Appellate Division, First Judicial Department and is currently registered with the New York State Unified Court System.
Hedayati graduated from Pace University School of Law. Her professional background includes over a decade of legal experience in the public sector, with a focus on administrative and regulatory law.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 66
Legal career: Howard E. Sturim is a New York Judge in the Supreme Court of Nassau County and has served for 10 years. His career began as an assistant district attorney for the Nassau County District Attorney’s office from 1991 to 2004. He prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases then became head of the Arson Unit and Major Offenses Unit. He then became a principal law clerk for the state Court of Claims to Alan L. Honorof before his term as New York Judge began in 2016.
Sturim earned his bachelor’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 1987 before receiving his law degree from Hofstra University in 1990 in the Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
Cross endorsed by Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties Age: 60
Legal career: James A. Saladino is a district court judge in Nassau County, appointed in March of this year. He has over 30 years of legal experience, including service as a judge, law clerk, prosecutor and private practitioner. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a district court judge in Suffolk County, presiding over criminal and civil matters. Before that, he spent eight years as a principal law clerk in the New York State Supreme Court and practiced law as a partner at Saladino & Hartill, LLP. Earlier in his career, he was an assistant district Attorney in Suffolk County from 1991 to 2002.
Saladino earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law and a B.A. from Boston University. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1991.
Maureen O’Connell, Nassau County Clerk since 2006, is seeking re-election to continue her work modernizing the office and expanding services for seniors and non-English-speaking residents. With over 30 years in public service, O’Connell brings experience as both a registered nurse and attorney, having previously served in the New York State Assembly and as Deputy Mayor of East Williston
On the issues:
state’s earliest Supreme Court e-filing systems and integrated digital connections with state and local agencies. She has also prioritized digitizing historical documents, making decades-old records more accessible for residents, particularly seniors who often need to retrieve property information.
During her nearly two decades as clerk, O’Connell has overseen a major transformation of the office’s operations. Under her leadership, millions of backlogged documents were processed, and the office transitioned to a fully digitized system for court and land records. This modernization has allowed residents and attorneys to file and access official documents online, reducing the need for in-person visits.
O’Connell implemented one of the
In an effort to protect homeowners, O’Connell launched a Property Fraud Alert Program, allowing property owners to receive email notifications if deeds or mortgages are filed in their name, helping to prevent fraud.
If re-elected, she plans to continue digitizing older records and expand parking at the Mineola office. She also intends to further adapt services for residents who speak languages other than English, building on the existing language line currently in place.
A lifelong Nassau County resident, O’Connell lives in East Williston and teaches nursing at SUNY Farmingdale.
Joylette E. Williams, a longtime educator and community leader, is running for Nassau County Clerk with a platform focused on modernization, accessibility, and administrative efficiency. A county resident since 1993, Williams has spent over two decades in public service and education, currently serving as a professor of English at Nassau Community College and a two-term member of the Hempstead School Board.
Williams holds a Ph.D. in English and is completing a second doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Connecticut. Her academic and professional background includes extensive experience in document management, recordkeeping, and organizational leadership—skills she says directly translate to the responsibilities of the clerk’s office.
Her public service includes prior roles as a Village of Hempstead trustee and current board member of the Town of
Hempstead Industrial Development Agency. Williams is also actively involved in civic organizations, including the NAACP, the Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, among others
On the issues: If elected, Williams plans to prioritize the digitization of county records, improve online access to public documents, and expand the use of the clerk’s mobile outreach van to underserved communities. She also proposes extending office hours one day a week to better serve working residents and increasing language accessibility for non-English-speaking residents.
Williams advocates for reducing or waiving fees on property transactions for groups such as seniors, veterans, first responders, and first-time homebuyers, citing Nassau’s fees as higher than neighboring counties.
Anne Donnelly, a Republican and prosecutor for over 30 years, defeated former State Sen. Todd Kaminsky in 2021 to become Nassau County’s top prosecutor; becoming the fourth consecutive woman to do so.
Donnelly, 61, is campaigning on her record as a career prosecutor who has prioritized public safety, gang enforcement and support for law enforcement. She is a Garden City resident and took office in 2022.
On the issues:
To address gun violence and online drug trafficking, she created a Firearm Suppression Unit and a Cyber Crimes and Pharmaceutical Unit. Her office has also expanded education programs in schools and invested in hate crime prevention efforts.
Nicole Aloise, a Democrat and candidate for Nassau County District Attorney, is mounting a campaign centered on addressing crime in the county, community investment and public safety.
Upon taking office she assembled a team of prosecutors and law enforcement officials—including a former police commissioner—to focus on violent crime, narcotics, and unsolved cold cases.
Donnelly also assisted in the Gilgo Beach serial killer investigation and helped close multiple cold cases from the 1960s and 1970s. Donnelly has said her administration prioritizes justice for vulnerable populations, including animals, and has prosecuted abusers under animal cruelty laws.
Donnelly has been an outspoken critic of New York’s “Cashless Bail” and “Clean Slate” laws, which she argues put repeat violent offenders back on the streets. She has called for their repeal while voicing continued support for police.
Before her election, Donnelly served 32 years in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, most recently as deputy bureau chief of the Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau. Her cases included murder-for-hire schemes, narcotics rings, and a counterfeit electronics bust that led to the largest asset forfeiture in county history.
Donnelly holds degrees from Fordham University and Fordham Law School.
Aloise, 41, brings 16 years of experience as a prosecutor in both Nassau and Queens counties, including recent work as a senior assistant district attorney in the Queens Homicide Bureau. She began her career in 2008 after earning her law degree from St. John’s University. In Queens, she helped secure more than 20 violent felony convictions and made case law by introducing the first NYPD body camera footage used in a New York City trial.
From 2019 to 2023, she served in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office as senior litigation counsel, prosecuting violent felonies and homicide cases. She returned to Queens in 2023 and continued her work until stepping down in 2024 to
run for district attorney. On the issues: Her platform includes strengthening the county’s Hate Crimes Bureau to better address attacks on Jewish and Asian communities, supporting the creation of a “death by dealer” statute to hold drug traffickers accountable in fatal overdose cases, and boosting funding for mental health, youth and violence prevention programs.
Aloise has also pledged to crack down on DWI cases through the county’s Vehicular Crimes Bureau and continue partnering with local police departments to improve public safety.
She lives in Garden City with her family, serves on her school’s PTA, coaches youth soccer and teaches legal ethics as an adjunct professor at Molloy University.
Molloy University has earned a spot among the top 100 colleges and universities in the United States, according to The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges Rankings. The university placed 75th nationwide and sixth in New York state among all ranked institutions.
Out of nearly 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the country, The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse evaluated 584 colleges and universities. Molloy’s placement puts it in the top 15 percent of those ranked, alongside Ivy League universities and flagship public institutions. In New York, Molloy ranked sixth out of 270 colleges and universities, 55 of which were included in the rankings.
Molloy also outperformed all other Long Island-based colleges and universities.
The university earned high marks in several key performance areas. It ranked 52nd nationally and eighth in New York for Social Mobility, and 73rd nationally and 7th in the state for Best Salaries.
“This ranking is beyond outstanding,” James Lentini, president of Molloy University, said in a news release. “To be recognized among the top 100 universities in the country — ahead of major institutions that are household
names — is a testament to the academic excellence, student-centered mission, and real-world impact that define a Molloy education.”
In addition, Molloy placed 130th nationally and 17th in New York for Student Experience and 225th nationally and 23rd in New York for Best Value, reflecting continued investment in academic quality, personalized learning, and access.
The Wall Street Journal’s rankings are based on four primary categories: Student Outcomes (which includes salary impact and graduation rates), Student Experience (including surveys on career preparation, learning opportunities and campus facilities), and Diversity. The methodology places a strong emphasis on financial outcomes for graduates — particularly how much value a college adds to a student’s earning potential.
Founded in 1955 by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville, Molloy University enrolls approximately 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offers degree programs in nursing, allied health, business, education, social work, music therapy and more.
In the midst of abundance such as we have never known, why are so many people unhappy? It may be that pursuing happiness is too vague a concept. Instead, we recommend pursuing peace of mind. Peace of mind can be found by eliminating those situations or circumstances that are preventing you from achieving it. Impossible, you say? Not if you are determined to fnd a way. Someone once said, “Tell me what it is that you want that you can’t have, and I’ll ask you what it is you aren’t willing to do.”
Recently, a client contacted me for advice on a family matter. She was the executor of an estate where the decedent had been in a second marriage and the two families were bickering over an old motorcycle, some personal effects and a relatively small amount of money. She wanted out as executor but her brothers wanted to fght. I asked her brothers whether they wanted peace of mind or to be right, since they couldn’t have both. They fnally relented.
Too many people want the thing but are un-
willing to pay the price. You want out of the relationship or situation but the other side is asking too much? Pay the price and get on with your life, it’s worth it. It doesn’t have to be fair, it just has to get done. Emerson said “Do the thing and you will have the power.”
Many of the issues we see people grappling with involve fghting something or someone in a way that resembles Don Quixote tilting at the windmill. They are fghting all by themselves. We say “stop fghting”. Let it go.
We also meet a great many worriers. Worried about everything all the time. Perhaps it is no more than a bad habit. Why do we say that? Whenever we solved a client’s worry, they immediately started worrying about something else! Churchill recounted a dying friend telling him, “You know, Winston, I had a lot of troubles in my life. Most of which never happened.”
Finally, from the Canadian thinker, Brian Tracy, “Set peace of mind as your highest goal, and organize your life around it”
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By Karen Bloom
The big day of tricks — and treats — is fast approaching. Ir’s the perfect excuse to let your spooky side shine. Whether you’re hosting little ghouls or adults who love a good fright, transform your home into a playful (or slightly spooky) party lair. Think mad scientist candy tables,“frightfully” delicious bites, bubbling mocktails, and enough treats to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Costumes optional, fun required. Not everyone wants to go all out with a full costume — and that’s fne! A Halloween Disguise Table lets guests add just a touch of whimsy. From goofy glasses and wacky hats to plastic fangs and spinning bow ties, everyone can join the fun, one accessory at a time.
Go for some spooky eats and magical drinks. Turn everyday foods into Halloween delights with cookie cutters, clever renaming, or inventive presentation. Sandwiches become tombstones, cookies turn into ghosts, you get the idea. Drinks? Pour them into vintage bottles and jugs and label them “magic potions” for an instant wow factor.
With a little imagination, your Halloween gathering can be a playful mix of tricks, treats and memorable moments — no matter your age. Try these tricked-out goodies for tasty spooking.
Spooky Ghosts
These friendly ghosts are sweetly spooky.
• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 cup extra-fne Baker’s Special Sugar
• Chocolate mini chips, for eyes
Preheat the oven to 200°F, with a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare a pastry bag with a 1/2” plain tip. Place the room-temperature egg whites into the bowl of a mixer. Add the cream of tartar. Beat on slow speed until the cream of tartar is dissolved and the egg whites are foamy. Slowly increase the speed of the mixer. When
the volume of the eggs has doubled and they begin to look opaque, sprinkle in about half the sugar. Continue to beat until the whites are glossy and getting stiff. Add the remaining sugar and mix until it’s evenly distributed and the whites hold a stiff peak.
Transfer the meringue to the pastry bag and, holding the bag perpendicular to the baking sheet, pipe, with even pressure, about 2”-high mounds of meringue.
Carefully press two chocolate mini chips into each meringue ghost, to make eyes.
Bake the meringues for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, or until they’re dry and crisp to the touch.
Turn off the oven, open the door a couple of inches, and leave the meringues in the oven to fnish drying several hours, or even overnight.
Remove the ghosts from the completely cold oven, and store them loosely covered. They should keep for several days at cool/dry room temperature. Yield: 20 to 24 ghosts.
Take a bite out of these mummies if you dare.
• 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 20 meatballs, pre-made
• Ketchup or mustard
• Marinara sauce, as desired
Heat oven to 375°F. Line work surface with cooking parchment paper. On parchment-lined surface, unroll dough and press perforations to seal; cut into 4 rectangles.
With knife or pizza cutter, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 10 pieces, making a total of 40 pieces of dough.
Wrap 2 pieces of dough around each meatball to look like “bandages,” stretching dough slightly to cover meatballs.
Separate “bandages” near one end to show meatball “face.” On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped meatballs.
Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and meatballs are hot. With ketchup and mustard, draw “eyes” on mummy
bites. Serve with warm marinara sauce.
Monster Mouths
A spooky treat you’ll want to sink your teeth into.
• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated peanut butter cookies
• 3/4 cup hazelnut spread with cocoa
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
Preheat oven to 350°F. Shape dough into 16 balls. On ungreased cookie sheet, place balls 3 inches apart.
Bake 15 to 17 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 20 minutes.
Spread hazelnut spread on bottom of each cookie; cut each cookie crosswise in half. For each “mouth,” press 4 to 5 marshmallows into hazelnut spread along rounded edge of 1 cookie half. Top with second cookie half, bottom side down; gently press together.
Melted Witch Punch
Take a sip and you’ll be feeling “witchy.”
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 (6 ounce) package lime-favored gelatin mix
• 1 (46 fuid ounce) can pineapple juice
• 2 quarts orange juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 (2 liter) bottles chilled lemon-lime soda
Mix water, sugar, and gelatin mix in a large saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cook at a boil, whisking frequently, until gelatin and sugar have dissolved, about 3 minutes. Stir pineapple juice, orange juice, and lemon juice into gelatin mixture and transfer into resealable plastic bags. Place in freezer until slushy, about 4 hours.
Pour mixture into a large punch bowl and stir in lemon-lime soda; foat a black plastic witch hat atop the punch.
Ruthie Foster is eager to share tunes from her new CD, “Mileage.” Renowned for her ability to weave together a tapestry of diverse musical infuences ranging from gospel and blues to folk and soul, Foster’s musical odyssey has taken her from singing in churches in rural Texas to earning multiple Grammy nominations, gracing the stage with the Allman Brothers, and collaborating with Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. With her milestone 10th studio album, Foster continues to tell stories that refect her personal triumphs, losses and the universal human experience. Born into a family steeped in gospel tradition, she initially shied away from the spotlight, preferring to play guitar, piano and write songs for others. Now, many albums later, she stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in music.
Friday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m. $43, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
One of America’s most distinctive and longest-running rock bands, Little Feat is back in a big way with a revitalized lineup and a stellar new album — its frst of original material in over a decade. The venerable band is touring in support of ‘Strike Up the Band,” their frst new studio album reliant on new material since 2012’s Rooster Rag. It’s Little Feat’s triumphant return to rock ‘n roll with plenty of swampy Southern soul. The band builds on a deep, over 50-year history of elite musicianship and brilliant, idiosyncratic songwriting that transcends boundaries. California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country and rockabilly mixed with New Orleans swamp boogie has kept audiences grooving for decades.
Saturday, Oct 25, 8 p.m. $141.25, $120.25, $99.75, $77.75, $66.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
OCT
RVCBCC 2025 Fashion Show
Support the fashion show and see fabulous honorees and models in honor of breast cancer awareness.
• Where: Garden City Hotel, 45 7th St, Garden City
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: info@rvcbcc.org
‘Uncle Vlad’s Pumpkin Patch: Under New Management’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes all to its latest theater production. Horrible news! The Mountain Boo Soda Company has their eyes on a piece of property for their new factory — Uncle Vlad’s pumpkin patch! Join Uncle Vlad, his nephew Chad, and their freakish friends as they team up to protect their Halloween home from the bony fingers of big business. The company is run by a skeleton, after all! With puppeteers and actors from LICM’s Theater, this musical adventure will tickle your funny bone as a Halloween treat for the whole family. $5 with museum admission ($4 members). $10 theater only.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., also Oct. 26
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Haunted Halloween
Step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration for some Halloween fun. Enjoy safe trick or treating, a kids’ costume parade and contest, witch-broom making, pumpkin painting, and other family fun. Meet the Headless Horseman and listen to a reading of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Enjoy the spooky fun while you appreciate the colors and beauty of the fall season in the farms, woods, and felds of the historic site. $15, $12 seniors and children 5-12.
• Where: 1303 Round Swamp Rd., Old Bethpage
• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Contact: oldbethpagevillageresto ration.org or call (516) 572-8409
Not-So-Spooky Ghost’s Missing Candy
Halloween Puppet Show
Get into the Halloween Spirit with giggles, not goosebumps at Old Westbury Gardens. After trick-ortreating around the gardens, take in The Not-So-Spooky Ghost Puppet Show by Wonderspark Puppets, taking place in The Barn at Orchard Hill! When a timid little ghost’s Halloween candy goes missing, only one detective is clever enough, brave enough, and smart enough to
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Contact: Ed Lambert at (516) 445-7125 for ticket purchase
6
Board of Education meeting
RVC UFSD holds its monthly meeting. Stay informed on district matters.
• Where: South Side High School, 140 Shepherd St.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 255-8957
8
• Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
• Time: 7 p.m.
Music Director Cristian Maˇcelaru leads the Orchestre National de France on its frst U.S. tour in nearly 10 years, performing with Grammy-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov. Their brief three-concert tour, with a stop at Tilles Center, culminates in a much-anticipated return to Carnegie Hall. Founded in 1934 and prized as France’s leading orchestra, the Orchestre National frst toured in North America in 1948. Joined by the pianist-extraordinaire (whose career has taken him far and wide, to Paris, throughout France, and to the most prestigious classical music venues in the world), the Orchestre National de France, the orchestra performs repertoires that lie at the core of its identity: Maurice Ravel (to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth), Elsa Barraine and Camille Saint-Saëns. Their brilliant repertoire features Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, along with Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 and two works by Ravel — Concerto in G and Daphnis et Chloe Suite No. 2 — with Trifonov as soloist on both of the program’s concerti. Under the baton of Cristian Maˇcelaru, this masterful program stuns in the musical story it provides, bringing the listener on a picturesque journey from start to fnish. The programming of Elsa Barraine’s Symphony No. 2 with its gumptous string lines that compliment the playfulness of the work’s structure sits beautifully in the program with Ravel’s Daphnis & Chloé. The two piano concertos bring different stylistic characters to the stage, with Saint-Saëns offering late romantic era lushness and Ravel offering the lavish fancy. Hearing these two works performed by Trifonov, a performer with a dedication to perfecting concerto repertoire for piano, is iconic.
solve the case – Mystery Max! Join Max on a wild adventure to fnd the ghost’s missing candy. Along the way meet crazy characters, make new friends, sing songs and fnd clues. Whodunit? $18, $15 seniors 65+, $12 ages 3+
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 1-2 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Art Talk
Join American realist painter Susan Cushing at Nassau County Museum of Art for a look at her process. Cushing’s highly stylized narrative landscapes are inspired by the decade of the 1970’s and reminiscent of the lifestyle photographs of Slim Aarons and the post-modern environmental style of Alex Katz and David Hockney. Susan’s paintings are evocative of the world of casual elegance as she beautifully captures the colors and themes of entertainment and play on canvas. Limited seating. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, members free.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Suicide Awareness Walk
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Long Island Chapter holds their Long Island Out of the Darkness Community Walk at Jones Beach. Register to walk or become a sponsor.
• Where: Field 5, Jones Beach, Wantagh
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Contact: Carrie Aronson at (516) 865-3944 or afsp.org/ longislandwalkwest
Halloween Parade and Party
Celebrate all things spooky at the parade this year! Registration required.
• Where: Rockville Centre Recreation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Road
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: RockvilleCentre. RecDesk.com
Little Learners
Art Lab Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to handson materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100
2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week create a pumpkin patch pal. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
NOV
1
Long Island Turkey Trot
Step into November with the Long Island Turkey Trot 5K.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, Parking Field 2
• Time: 9 a.m.
• Contact: EliteFeats. com/25LITurkeyTrot
Enjoy a curated selection of wines for tasting and sharing insights, hosted by St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council #2548 in support of the Knights of Columbus of Ukraine. Esteemed Past Grand Knight Ed Lambert has curated this exceptional tasting experience. $30 per person.
• Where: St. Agnes Parish Center, 29 Quealy Place.
‘Once Upon A Song!’ Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance. In this spirited show books in a library are brought to life in song and dance. A cast of 40 keeps the action moving along, with a live band. The singers and dancers perform current hits, oldies and tunes from the Broadway stage, with a tribute to Woodstock and “Wicked.” With refreshments and post-show dancing until 1 a.m. Seating is night-club style at round tables. $30 per person, available in advance or at the door.
• Where: Temple B’nai Torah, 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh
• Time: 7:30 p.m., also Nov. 15
• Contact: licabaret@aol.com or (516) 946-7207
9
Flip Your Lid Families are invited to commemorate America Recycles Day at Long Island Children’s Museum by upcycling mason jar lids into beautiful works of art, at the drop-in program. Free with museum admission. For ages 3+.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 1-3 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
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.
Charlene Jackson Thompson, 59, brings a wide-ranging background to her campaign for Nassau County’s 1st Legislative District. With experience as an attorney, government official, consultant and longtime community advocate, she is now running as the Republican candidate for the newly redrawn district. A Roosevelt native and graduate of Uniondale High School, Thompson made history as the first Black Homecoming queen at the College of William and Mary before earning her law degree from Howard University. Today, she serves as a deputy county attorney, handling child welfare cases on behalf of Nassau County.
in housing and economic development. She has also prosecuted child abuse cases and led a consulting firm focused on grants and regulatory compliance. Her work is guided by a trauma-informed and collaborative approach that places the well-being of individuals and families at the forefront.
LEGAL NOTICE
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 609200/2025 WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE OF CIM TRUST 2023-R3
Throughout her career, Thompson has consistently prioritized community engagement, working with people across backgrounds and meeting them where they are. Her public service has spanned both Democratic and Republican administrations, including leadership roles
Scott Davis, 63, a longtime Rockville Centre resident who grew up in Hempstead, was elected in 2023 to represent Nassau County’s Legislative District 1. Now seeking re-election, Davis reflects on a first term shaped by active community engagement and a commitment to legislative advocacy, particularly as a Democrat in the legislative minority.
Thompson identifies as a conservative and acknowledges the challenges that come with holding views that may not align with the majority in her community. She said she has remained in the Republican Party because she believes in the importance of political diversity and feels that communities are best served when they do not align exclusively with one party. Her campaign is focused on increasing access to affordable housing, improving infrastructure and strengthening civic engagement across the district.
As a criminal defense attorney and a firstgeneration college graduate, Davis draws on his personal background growing up biracial in Hempstead and losing his mother at a young age as the foundation for his dedication to public service.
On the issues:
During his first term, Davis said he found that his longstanding desire to serve the public found real expression through his role as legislator. He focused on building relationships throughout his district, which encompasses Rockville Centre, South Hempstead, Roosevelt, and parts of Baldwin and Hempstead.
Davis said he considers his most significant legislative accomplishment to be securing $1.75 million in clean-water funding for the Village of Hempstead. The funding is aimed at addressing contamination caused by high levels of the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane. It took nearly nine months to obtain the funds, and Davis attributed the achievement to consistent advocacy and collaboration, particularly with now-State Senator Siela Bynoe. He made the issue a priority, speaking about it frequently and pushing for action at every opportunity. Looking ahead, his goals include renovating Mirschel Park in Hempstead, upgrading recreation facilities in Rockville Centre and expanding youth programs across the district. He remains enthusiastic about continuing his work and serving the community with dedication.
Plaintiff, vs GEORGE HILL AKA GEORGE W. HILL IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS
STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, COUNTY FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s) MORTGAGED PREMISES: 34 Hawthorne Avenue Rockville Centre, NY 11570 To the Abovenamed Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the d ay of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an offce for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served
upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Eighteenth day of September, 2025 and fled with the Complaint in the Offce of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by George Hill AKA
George W. Hill and Jod ie Jacobs-Hill dated the October 3, 2007, to secure the sum of $386,000.00 and recorded at Book 32474, Page 604 in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk on November 2, 2007. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 9, 2014 and recorded on September 12, 2014, in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 39912, Page 85. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 1, 2018 and recorded on December 13, 2018, in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 43197, Page 554. Said Mortgage was subsequently modifed by a Loan Modifcation Agreement executed by George Hill AKA
George W. Hill and Jodie Jacobs-Hill on January 4, 2019 and recorded April 8, 2019 in Book 43379, Page 513 in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 9, 2019 and recorded on October 7, 2019, in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 43719, Page 959. The mortgage was subsequ ently assigned by an assignment executed February 18, 2020 and recorded on April 7,
2020, in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 44130, Page 179. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed February 25, 2025 and recorded on March 6, 2025, in the Offce of the Nassau County Clerk at Book 47884, Page 57. The property in question is described as follows: 34 Hawthorne Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who fled this Foreclosure proceeding against you and fling the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPON D BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: September 23, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law frm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 87469 155989
Place
Q. With winter coming, we’re realizing that our windows are drafty and hard to open. It’s time to replace them after 40 years in our house. As we start shopping around, are there windows you recommend, and why? We keep seeing commercials for replacement windows, and were wondering if there’s a difference since our window openings aren’t standard. I took some measurements, and some of the windows are very uniform — like 4 feet tall, and others are off by 2 or 3 inches and those don’t match one another. Will the new windows be custom fit to the openings, or will we need to change the openings? I’m concerned, because our house is brick, and it seems like not every window is going to fit. What should I look for when talking to a contractor, and will we need a permit?
A. The most important thing to look for with windows is energy compliance and the strength and ease of operating the hardware. Windows that will lose more energy are a poor investment, followed by those that can’t be opened easily as they age. The strength of the frames goes hand in hand with the window operation, because less costly vinyl windows are made of less costly materials that will distort over time and directly affect the seal around the frames, making for more difficulty opening and closing.
Lately I’ve noticed that clients are searching for unique styles and brands from faraway places and even other countries. One person asked me to look at a lift-out window from Southern California that was meant for a café serving counter, but they wanted to use it for a second-floor bedroom. The window was a push-out-and-up type that didn’t look like it could handle our weather in the Northeast. There was no energy data to show resistance to our winters, and nothing published that could pass our local codes.
Another client is getting windows from Poland. They’re very strong, triple-pane units that cost less and will probably comply with the energy codes, but it was a struggle to get the energy data in a format required in your state codes.
The rule with most building departments in your area is that direct replacement doesn’t need a building permit, but altering window sizes does. You should still verify this with your building department, because you want to avoid receiving a warning or summons during the installation and then having to stop to get plans made and permits filed.
Custom window sizes require creating extra framing to attractively insert standard sizes. If you reduce the window opening, it must still comply with safety requirements. Consult either a local official or an architect to be sure that you comply. The codes vary for existing window openings, which require 4 square feet versus altered openings that bump the required size up to 5.7 square feet. The architect can also give you some guidance about wood versus
fiberglass versus metal, etc. Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to
We
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opiNioNs
The federal government has been shut down since Oct. 1. I can’t stand it. I’ve been back and forth to Washington, but the Capitol is relatively quiet. Federal workers are missing paychecks; Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare applications can’t get processed; flights are being delayed; and without any action come Nov. 1, millions of Americans will be notified that their health insurance premiums are going up by over $1,000 — per month!
Why can’t we fix this? Republicans have the White House and majorities in both the Senate and the House, but they need eight Democratic votes in the Senate to pass a government funding bill. Despite the high stakes and the need for high-level bipartisan negotiations to end this crisis, no one is talking. Why?
Republicans say they won’t negotiate until the government is reopened. House Speaker Mike Johnson hasn’t called us back to Congress for a month. Senate Majority Leader John Thune refuses to budge, and President Trump continues his my-way-or-the-highway
“Nposture, unilaterally — and likely unlawfully — firing federal employees, cutting projects in Democratic states and eliminating programs to try to impose his will, making this shutdown as painful as possible.
The Democrats are just as dug in. They warn that those health insurance premiums will soon skyrocket because Republicans refuse to extend the tax credits that keep the premiums down. We’re running out of time.
We need a solution that staves off spikes in health insurance premiums.
If the credits expire, 22 million Americans, including more than 100,000 Long Islanders, will see their premiums spike. Healthy people all over the country will choose to forgo coverage, which will shrink the risk pool and raise premiums for everyone. The results will be catastrophic.
The crazy thing is, most Democrats want to reopen the government, and many Republicans want to extend the tax credits. The problem is that no one trusts one another. Republicans want to open the government with a handshake promise to talk about health insurance later. Democrats want it dealt with as part of the reopening. There must be compromise, often a dirty word in D.C.
Normally, I’d advocate for trust. I don’t believe shutdowns should be used
as negotiating tactics for these kinds of policy debates. But these aren’t normal times. For the past nine months, the administration has ignored the Democrats, unilaterally eliminating jobs and cutting key programs, reversing budget decisions without warning and generally steamrolling Congress’s constitutional authority over “the power of the purse” and the use of the military in our cities.
Johnson and Thune have refused to negotiate with Democrats. I’ve voted to keep the government open more than 40 times over my five terms in Congress. Each time, the governing majority has negotiated with the minority party, with the understanding that they simply don’t have the votes on their own.
How can Democrats reasonably be expected to trust that health care will be dealt with after the reopening in an environment of such fear, anger and distrust in Washington?
Nevertheless, we need to find a way to reopen the government as soon as possible, or things will only get worse. We need a solution that also staves off spikes in health insurance costs.
That’s why I’m leading a bipartisan effort with Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans. Our bill, the Premium
Tax Credit Extension Act, would extend the credits for one year, protecting families while giving Congress time to reach a broader health care deal. It’s not perfect. Like most of my Democratic colleagues, I’d prefer extending the credits permanently. But we’re in the minority, and we can’t let our aspiration for perfection stop us from achieving the good. Republicans, who can’t open the government without Democrats, must also see that truth.
The sticking point in this shutdown is health care affordability: Polling shows that the top concern in our country is the cost of living, and health care costs are a key contributor. At Trump’s inaugural address, he said he would “rapidly reduce prices.” I, like many Americans, hoped that he would.
Now inflation is up, costs are climbing, and Americans feel duped. They want us to reopen the government, prioritize lowering costs —health care a big part of that — and stop playing partisan games while they pay the price.
For many Americans, Washington hasn’t just shut down this month — it’s felt closed for far too long. We need to reopen it in every sense: by rebuilding trust, negotiating honestly, and committing to working together to find solutions for the people we represent.
Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.
o man can step into the same river twice.” — Heraclitus, 500 B.C.
After spending the past few years in Florida, my husband and I decided this season to rent a place near Woodmere, where we lived in the same house for 51 years. I taught in the local schools, our kids grew up here, and our roots in the community run deep.
We’ve been back in town for about two months.
I don’t have meteorological data, but I believe we’ve had the most glorious autumn weather ever experienced in southwestern Nassau County. Until the nor’easter, of course, which brought back memories of Hurricanes Belle and Irene and Sandy.
I took myself to Woodmere Dock and found the seascape of the bay, the waterside holes of the Rockaway Hunting Club and the vast marshes all the same. I imagine I’m one of few people who
recall that the dock was owned at one time by the Ike family, who rented rowboats by the hour and owned an access road to the dock known as Ike’s Lane.
You can go home again, but if you do, be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different. And, of course, you are different, too. Our old house looks as if we closed the door and walked away yesterday. The tiny memorial to our dog Sheba still rests in a flower bed where we buried her ashes.
You can go home again, but be prepared. Everything is the same, but entirely different.
The second day up North, I walked into a doctor’s office and into a friend from our kids’ high school days. We looked the same, other than dusted and stamped by time. That afternoon, a woman jogged by our rental house, and I realized she was in a book group I ran 25 years ago. I kept running into people who looked as if a makeup artist had worked them over. And they did double takes when I reintroduced myself.
Things are where I remember them — firehouses and supermarkets and a few restaurants. But some stores are now banks, and many small businesses
have been replaced by medical megapractices, gyms or nail spas. Community boards advertise unfamiliar events and groups. I felt like Emily in “Our Town,” when she returns from the dead to revisit her 12th birthday and realizes that no one ever appreciates the everydayness of their lives while they’re living them. I took the LIRR to the city from Lawrence one day. I didn’t know where or how to park, how to buy a ticket or how to find the train schedule. Since I last rode the Snail, it went digital. I got a tutorial from my granddaughter and enjoyed a glorious day with her traipsing through downtown Manhattan. BTW, despite the fearmongering of many Floridians, the subway was clean, and it all felt safe.
Penn Station was emblematic of my experience, looking completely new and kind of brazen and futuristic, but foundationally the same. Track 19 is still Track 19, and the train back to Lawrence still left from there.
Another day, I drove from the Five Towns to Astoria. I hadn’t driven in city
traffic for six years. That was hell and a half. I felt gratified that my memory of the roads was accurate, and the Van Wyck still went to the Grand Central and then to Steinway Street — but what a holy mess the roads are. Everything is under construction, and cement trucks terrorized me all the way from here to there. My Waze app told me to go right so I could go left, and then an 18-wheeler backed into my lane. More people gave me the finger salute during that 50-minute ride than in all of my years driving. The Woodmere and other towns of my younger self have evolved and, in some cases, disappeared. That’s what happens. New people, new shops, new activities festoon the old infrastructure. All the little back roads are the same, though. I realized I knew 10 different ways to drive anyplace.
I also know the origin stories, the history, of people and places, and it all came flooding back as I zipped about town. I felt grounded in the way you can only feel when your present is layered with rich memories of the past.
It’s autumn in New York again, and it’s good to be home.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
For decades, justice in Nassau and Suffolk counties often depended on eyewitnesses, confessions and detective work that, while diligent, was limited by the science of its time. But today, the breakthroughs of modern forensic science are rewriting history, freeing the innocent and holding the guilty accountable.
Last week, the Nassau County district attorney’s office announced a stunning development in one of Long Island’s most haunting cold cases, the 1984 murder of 16-year-old Theresa Fusco in Lynbrook. Fusco disappeared after finishing her shift at the Hot Skates Roller Rink. A month later, her body was found in a nearby wooded area.
For nearly 40 years, her family lived with grief and confusion, compounded by the wrongful convictions of three men whose lives were destroyed before DNA technology could prove their innocence. Those men — Dennis Halstead, John Kogut and John Restivo — spent nearly two decades in prison before DNA testing cleared them in 2003.
Now, that same science has brought the case full circle. Investigators linked Richard Bilodeau, 63, of Center Moriches, to the crime after obtaining DNA from a discarded smoothie cup earlier this year. When tested, it was a 100
percent match with evidence preserved from the Fusco crime scene.
“Science and DNA evidence doesn’t lie,” the district attorney’s office stated. And it doesn’t coerce confessions. It doesn’t forget. It doesn’t play favorites. It tells the truth when the truth is hard to find.
The Fusco case isn’t just about closure — it’s a lesson in progress. Four decades ago, detectives couldn’t imagine a world in which a cold case could be revived by a few microscopic cells. Today, the Nassau County forensic unit has reopened a number of cases, identifying both victims and suspects through genetic technology once considered science fiction.
Science is also central to another major Long Island case now unfolding in court: that of Rex Heuermann, the Massapequa Park architect accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer. There, too, DNA stands at the center of the search for truth. Prosecutors are relying on cutting-edge testing from Astrea Forensics, a California lab that analyzes even the tiniest hair fragments. Defense attorneys have tried to discredit the science as “magic,” claiming that New York courts haven’t yet accepted it.
But experts such as Dr. Kelley Harris,
The following letter was sent to Nassau County legislators.
The South Shore Women’s Alliance is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of women and families. In line with this mission, SSWA hosted “Not Me” workshops for parents and their daughters, in which the Safe Center LI, of Bethpage, played a crucial role, providing instruction on fundamental prevention and protection strategies, as well as education on the warning signs and cycles of abuse.
In addition to serving as the primary center for people affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse, the Safe Center operated as an advocacy center for child-abuse prosecutions, maintained a crisis-intervention hotline and offered an advocate-response program that dispatched trained volunteers to emergency rooms to assist survivors of rape, sexual assault and domestic violence.
The Safe Center was the lifeline for over 5,000 people each year, providing crucial resources and support to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence, the only center of its kind in Nassau County. It is unconscionable that County Executive Bruce Blakeman allowed it to close.
Nassau provided $2.9 million to the Safe Center in 2023. But when asked for county grants to keep the center going, Blakeman failed not only to provide the needed funding, but also to facilitate a takeover by another organization, forcing the center to shut its doors.
The Safe Center board’s former president, Shanell Parrish-Brown, said, “The county sort of left the Safe Center
a University of Washington geneticist, defend the method as “elegant and powerful”— a reminder that while justice is constant, the tools to attain it evolve. Every forensic innovation, from fingerprints to fiber analysis to DNA sequencing, was once new and controversial. Yet each step forward has given law enforcement stronger, fairer tools to uncover facts that human memory or intuition alone could never provide.
Whether it’s exonerating the innocent, as in Fusco’s tragic case, or convicting the guilty, as prosecutors hope in the Gilgo Beach murders, forensic science is reshaping the path toward justice on Long Island. It demands accuracy. It demands accountability. And it demands that we trust evidence grounded not in guesswork or coercion, but in chemistry, genetics and time-tested truth.
For the Fusco family, science may finally bring the closure they’ve waited for since 1984. For the families of the Gilgo Beach victims, it may soon bring answers to a mystery that has haunted this area for years.
From Lynbrook to Massapequa Park and across Long Island, one message is clear: Science keeps faith with the facts — and with the people who deserve justice.
out to dry.”
As reported in Newsday, County Legislator Seth Koslow “said the impending closure could have been avoided with better county planning.”
“This was a failure of leadership in Nassau to ensure the safety of these children who have been victimized once and are now being victimized again by the Blakeman administra -
tion,” Koslow said. “This wasn’t something that just fell out of the heavens — people saw this coming.”
Why weren’t there hearings about the future of the center when the financial problems first became known? Why hasn’t the Legislature’s Health and Social Services Committee held hearings about how it might save the center?
kratom is a substance that has caught the attention of legislatures across the country — in New York especially, due to its wide usage as a stimulant and because of its alleged medicinal properties, but mainly as a cause of recent tragic deaths. I believe you should be aware of the risks of kratom, its compounds and synthetic derivatives. According to Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “Concentrated, synthetic 7-OH” — the herb’s chemical byproduct — “may be the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic.”
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves are sold on the market as tea, powder, pills, tablets or capsules. It is found in energy drinks, vapes, herbal supplements and gummies. Unregulated kratom products have been found to contain lead.
People use kratom to treat conditions such as pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, opioid use disorder and withdrawal, and to boost energy and enhance wellness. Depending on the dosage,
however, it can produce both stimulant effects and opioid-like sedative effects. Its risks include liver toxicity, seizures and addiction.
The use of kratom started to become mainstream over the past decade. It’s relatively inexpensive, but according to industry statistics, the industry is valued at between $1.3 billion and $5.62 billion, and is projected to grow rapidly. This is concerning!
TThe FDA has not approved any uses for kratom, and it is not lawfully marketed in the United States. The FDA describes it as lacking medicinal value, and has raised concerns about risks it says are similar to those of using morphine. The FDA warns consumers to avoid usage until it is better understood.
Although it occurs naturally in the kratom plant, it is considered a synthetic substance in its potent form, in commercial products. The recommendation is now under review by the DEA.
he head of the FDA says it ‘may be the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic.’
In 1970, Congress established five schedules of classification for controlled substances, Schedule 1 being the worst, and granted the Drug Enforcement Administration and the FDA the authority to determine which substances could be added or removed from those schedules.
In July, the FDA announced that it would recommend to the DEA that 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, the powerful compound found in kratom, be classified as a Schedule I substance.
Even more egregious is how Blakeman uses women’s trauma as a political ploy in mailings and TV ads against his opponent, while abandoning survivors of rape, abuse and domestic violence — effectively casting them onto the streets.
The South Shore Women’s Alliance gathered hundreds of Nassau resident signatures urging that, rather than spending millions of dollars on outside legal fees for frivolous culture war lawsuits or for his own personal militia, Blakeman reinstate the county’s only domestic violence center.
The SSWA requests that Nassau County allocate funds in the 2026 budget for opening a new facility that shelters and provides the services that the Safe Center provided to women and children of Nassau County.
Until the review is complete, New York can’t pass legislation that deviates from a federal classification standard because of the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Although this was a step in the right direction, the kratom plant itself was not included in the recommendation. I recently signed a letter written by the chairman of the Assembly’s Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Committee requesting that the DEA and FDA add kratom products as a Schedule I substance.
At least half of the states in the U.S. regulate kratom, often including age restrictions. As of this year, Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C., have banned it, and classified it as a Schedule I substance. Florida and Missouri have banned synthetic 7-OH.
The inconsistency of these laws demonstrates exactly why federal regulation streamlining the classification and use of kratom is so vital. While it may have medicinal benefits, the focus should be
ernment is a nonpartisan group concerned about transparency, accountability and integrity. We believe Mr. D’Esposito is wholly unqualified for this job, and ask that you block his confirmation.
Anthony D’Esposito’s history of questionable hiring practices has been well documented. While at the New York City Police Department, he reportedly broke labor rules by working a second job. More recently, D’Esposito was at the center of a scandal. In September 2024, it was reported that that while he was serving as a congressman in the 4th District, he put his fiancée’s daughter and his mistress on his congressional payroll, despite the House Code of Conduct prohibition against employing spouses, relatives and stepchildren.
on harm reduction. Individual choice needs to be respected, but I believe public health is at stake.
We have taken action in New York state. I co-sponsored two bills that passed unanimously in June and are awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature. One would require manufacturers of kratom products in New York to include a warning label stating that the product hasn’t been approved by the FDA, and is prohibited from being labeled as all natural. The other bill would prohibit the sale of kratom to anyone under age 21. It is vital that we protect this age group, just as we do with the sale of alcohol and marijuana.
It is paramount that these bills be signed, and that kratom products be classified as Schedule I substances. The tragic deaths of too many New Yorkers have shown how dangerous and addictive kratom can be. Some people seeking alternative remedies to pain, insomnia, anxiety, fatigue and other problems have unknowingly been at risk, and some have died believing this substance was natural, safe and had therapeutic value.
Unfortunately, this sounds all too familiar. “We got burned with fentanyl. We got burned with prescription drugs,” Makary said. “We cannot get behind the eight-ball again.”
Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.
CLAUDIA BORECKY Executive director, South Shore Women’s
Alliance
The following letter was sent to United States Senate Majority Leader John Thune. It has been reported that the U.S. Senate is advancing the confirmation of former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito to be Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Labor. Nassau Residents for Good Gov-
There are also questions about his judgment. D’Esposito was part of the GOP’s slate of 2022 freshmen candidates for Congress, which included the disgraced George Santos, who was expelled in 2023 (and just released from prison). D’Esposito reportedly had a close financial relationship with Santos, and coordinated with him during their concurrent 2022 House campaigns, sharing a campaign treasurer (who later pleaded guilty to conspiring to defrauding the U.S. government) and raising money together through the Santo D’Esposito Nassau Victory Committee.
D’Esposito says that if confirmed, he will bring “grit, independence and accountability to the Department of Labor.” In fact,
his record is antithetical to that position and that promise. As detailed above, his record is one of corruption and a general disregard for ethical considerations.
President Trump chose D’Esposito despite his ethical lapses amid lingering questions about his hiring practices. But the Senate doesn’t have to.
Here in Nassau County, we have seen up close D’Esposito’s labor practices, which we believe should disqualify him from consideration. Instead of advancing D’Esposito’s confirmation, it should be blocked.
