Uniondale Herald 04-24-2025

Hopping good time

Outside the John J. Byrne Community Center in Uniondale, children and adults took part in the community egg hunt on April 19. More photos, Page 10.

School board candidates run unopposed

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

The Uni ondale Boa rd of Edu cation’s pla ns for the 202 526 sch ool yea r wil l be put before res idents in the bud get vot e and sch ool boa rd ele ction on May 20. In add ition to nex t yea r’s spe nding pla n, two boa rd sea ts and two pro positions wil l be on the ballot.

Incumbent

Tru stees Add ie Bla nco-Harvey and Alv in McD aniel, are run ning uno pposed.

“Af ter thi nking abo ut it for a whi le, I dec ided that I wan t to continue to ser ve as a Boa rd of Edu cation tru stee,” Bla nco-Harvey sai d. She has bee n a tru stee for six yea rs, and is a mem ber of the Dis trict’s Cur riculum Com mittee as wel l. Six of her chi ldren have bee n stu dents in Uni ondale’s sch ools, and she has sai d tha t her exp erience as a par ent hel ps sha pe her lea dership of the aca demic com munity.

“It ’s ver y imp ortant to have

par ental inv olvement,” she said. “I became ver y involved in the education of my chi ldren through the PTA . I wou ld ask parents to take an act ive role in whatever the y can to make sure that the y’re alw ays involved in the edu cational process of the ir chi ldren.”

PTA mem ber Olg a Her nandez has wor ked with Blanco-Harve y on out reach strategies and wellness programs, inc luding the My Bro ther’s Keeper initiative and the Lat ina Mentoring program in Uni ondale Hig h Sch ool.

“I’ve kno wn Addie for man y years,” Her nandez sai d. “Ad die is one person tha t att ends jus t about every fun ction, eve ry event in thi s dis trict. Whe n you see som ething in som ebody that sta nds out , you have to make note of it. ”

“She’s alw ays put the community fir st,” Fra ntz Dor sainvil, ass istant pri ncipal of Walnut Street Ele mentary Sch ool, said of Bla nco-Harvey. “Sh e

Continued on page 2

Tentative school budget up for review on May 6

advocates for what’s best for our children in the Uniondale community. She’s really loyal to the work.”

McDaniel has been part of the Uniondale community for over 35 years. “I’ve been trying to find my way into being able to serve the community more, using my experience and my educational background,” he said.

McDaniel has a master’s degree in accounting and a doctorate in educational leadership. He was appointed to the board in October when Trustee Carol Eason resigned.

O“One of the biggest challenges we’re having right now is finance, and that’s financial aid from the state and federal government,” McDaniel said. “Right now I’m working with my other trustees to get out and reach out to our elected officials, then to make sure and secure what we were entitled to, and hopefully keep what we have — and actually get more.”

“(McDaniel) has been an invaluable member of the board so far,” she said. “We value his opinions and he is very good at helping the board with the budget.”

These candidates’ terms will last until June 30, 2028.

Also on the ballot are two propositions focusing on the appropriation of funds for the next school year. Proposition 1 covers the proposed $286 million school budget, a $20 million increase over the current fiscal plan, according to the district’s statement of revenue.

ne of the biggest challenges we’re having right now is finance.

Alvin McDAniel Board of Education

trustee

Board President Mary Bediako has worked with both candidates extensively to prepare for the next school year.

The budget increase comes from “a modest increase of 2.5 percent to the tax levy,” Bediako said.

Still recovering from losing grants during the Covid-19 pandemic, the district is looking to financially maintain as many student programs as possible.

Proposition 2 covers four plans for projects funded by the district’s existing capital reserve.

The four plans “will be of no tax increase to the public,” Bediako said.

“We have a capital reserve fund already, but we have to go to the com-

munity to get permission to do the capital projects that we need to improve our infrastructure,” she continued.

The first project is to install a new safety fence around Grand Avenue for $200,000. Second, to repair and replace damaged sidewalks at Northern Parkway, Turtle Hook Middle School, Walnut Street School and Uniondale High School for $350,000.

Third, to install exterior LED light polls at Northern Parkway, Turtle Hook Middle School, Walnut Street School, Uniondale HS for $450,000. Fourth, to install new well pumps and irrigation at all athletic fields for $500,000.

Before the election, the Board will hold a public hearing regarding the budget on May 6, at 6:30 p.m. at Uniondale High School.

Strengthening Local Communities, Boosting Reliability, Enhancing Sustainability

By Steve Cole-Hatchard, Project Director, New York Transco Quentin McMahon, Senior Program Director, New York Power Authority

Earth Week is a perfect time to consider how we can better ensure that our homes, businesses, and families have access to sustainable, reliable and secure energy in the face of increasingly extreme weather events and steadily rising electricity demand.

Propel NY Energy is a core electric infrastructure project that will do just that – keeping the lights on for all our families, ensuring businesses thrive, and keeping communities safe before, during and after storms.

Electric Transmission Upgrades are Essential

As extreme weather events become more frequent, modernizing our electric grid is critical to helping prevent outages, improving emergency response, and strengthening resilience. Propel NY Energy will ease bottlenecks on the current system, expand capacity, and support the integration of cleaner energy sources, all of which will help lower costs for ratepayers, provide communities and businesses needed energy, and ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.

A Project Built for People

The Propel NY Energy team understands that a strong, modern electric grid isn’t just about technology, it’s about people. That’s why, over the past two months, we’ve hosted nine local community information sessions — meeting with residents, answering questions, and incorporating their input into the future buildout of New York’s electric infrastructure.

Listening, Engaging, and Building Together

From day one, we’ve prioritized early, often, and inclusive community engagement. Our recent information sessions are just one piece of a broader effort that has included 17 open houses, knocking on nearly 300 doors, tabling at more than 15 local libraries and events, and hundreds of meetings with local municipalities, civic groups, business owners and more. Thank you to all that continue to engage, ask questions, and share input! Your input helps us build a project that meets the needs of the community. As we advance to the next stages of this public process, we remain committed to being a community partner.

A Commitment to Resilience and Sustainability

Earth Week is a reminder that protecting our environment and communities goes hand in hand. Modernizing our electric grid in a manner that prioritizes environmental and community needs will ensure a more resilient, sustainable energy system for generations to come. Together, we can build a stronger, more reliable electric grid.

Uniondale Fire Department looks for recruits

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

said.

The Uniondale Fire Department will be among the 25 volunteer fire departments on Long Island and many more across New York state that will open their doors to the public the weekend of April 26 to 27 as part of the 16th annual RecruitNY campaign, an effort aimed at boosting volunteer membership in local fire departments.

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York organizes the statewide event.

As part of the campaign, FASNY will also relaunch its “Light Up NY Red” initiative to raise awareness about the need for volunteer firefighters. April 21 to 27, residents, businesses, landmarks and government buildings are encouraged to display red lighting in support of the effort.

We are hoping that all New Yorkers will help us shine the ‘light’ red for the recruitment of volunteer firefighters across the state this April.

Volunteer fire departments statewide continue to face challenges such as declining membership and increasing emergency call volumes. According to FASNY, New York has about 40,000 fewer volunteer firefighters than it did two decades ago. Economic pressures, time constraints and other lifestyle demands have made recruiting and retaining volunteers more difficult.

EugENE PERRY president, FASNY

“We are hoping that all New Yorkers will help us shine the ‘light’ red for the recruitment of volunteer firefighters across the state this April,” FASNY President Eugene Perry said.

Notable landmarks that participated in last year’s campaign included Niagara Falls State Park, the JMA Wireless Dome at Syracuse University, and several county and municipal buildings in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

“These lights symbolize FASNY’s commitment to a tradition of community and a sense of camaraderie, and we are very grateful for the support,” Perry

Volunteer firefighters respond to a variety of emergencies, including fires, medical calls, vehicle accidents, downed power lines and lithium battery incidents. Officials say increasing volunteer ranks is essential to maintaining public safety.

“We need to attract and maintain volunteers in order to provide adequate protection for our communities,” said Scott A. Thebold, president of the S.C. Firefighters Association and a member of the Yaphank Fire Department. “The problem is that we get many who volunteer, we train them, and then they leave, primarily because of the lack of affordable housing on Long Island.”

“Young people join, but then go to college, get married and move away simply because they can’t afford to live on Long Island,” he said. “We have to do whatever we can to address this issue and keep volunteerism alive.”

Kevin McFlynn, president of the Nassau County Firefighters Association,

The Uniondale Fire Department will take part in the 16th annual RecruitNY campaign on April 26 and 27. Above, Uniondale Fire Chief George Martinez and Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks when the Legislature acknowledged 31 county fire departments that helped to battle the upstate Jennings Creek Wildfire in November.

echoed those concerns.

“To me the biggest problem is affordability here in Nassau,” McFlynn said. “Nassau is a very expensive place to live, which means that most people have to have two jobs and don’t have the time to give to be a volunteer.”

He added that times have changed: “It’s not like when a local businessman could hear the fire alarm, lock his doors and go serve the community — that’s just not something they can do anymore.”

McFlynn emphasized the urgency of bringing in new recruits, noting that many departments rely on aging volunteers.

“I can’t do what I did when I was 20 years old, like climb ladders and drag hoses,” he said. “I hope the RecruitNY campaign encourages more people to participate and volunteer.”

FASNY is encouraging communities to share their support for the “Light Up NY Red” campaign on social media using the hashtag #LightUpNYRed. Photos and captions can also be emailed to photos@fasny.com for possible inclusion in Volunteer Firefighter magazine and on FASNY’s social media platforms.

For more information about RecruitNY or to find a participating fire department, RecruitNy.org.

Uniondale’s great debaters speak up with style

More than 650 students from Long Island, New York City, and Westchester converged at Uniondale High School for the prestigious Long Island Classic Debate Tournament, hosted by the Uniondale School District in collabora-

uNiONdALE dEBAtE StANdOutS — SPEAkER AWARdS

Elementary school

·3rd place: Madison Goodwin, Walnut Street School

· 4th place: Xili Romain, Grand Avenue School

·6th place: Camari Coke, California Avenue School

·7th place: Jordan Fenner, Grand Avenue School

·8th place: Adelina Mercado, Walnut Street School

·9th place: Chase Semper, California Avenue School

·10th place: Mia Goodwin, Walnut Street School

Middle school

· 7th place: Kalissi Lleras, Lawrence Road Middle School High school

·3rd place: Emily Ortiz Ramirez, Uniondale High School

tion with the American Debate League. Held across the elementary, middle, and high school levels, the April 5 daylong event was marked by spirited competition and a strong showing from Uniondale’s own students, who earned

uNiONdALE tEAM AWARdS — tOP PLACEMENtS

Elementary school teams

·3rd place: Xili Romain, Makenna Williams, Afeeyah Zafarali, Grand Avenue School

·4th place: Madison Goodwin, Mia Goodwin, Shayla Roberts, Walnut Street School

·5th place: Adrianna Ayala, Kaylee Baires, Gabriella Rodriguez, Northern Parkway School

· 6th place: Ethan Aguilar Ampuero, Hazel Alvarado Chavez, Adelina Mercado, Walnut Street School

·7th place: Jordan Fenner, Brianna Molina Rodriguez, Grand Avenue School

High School Team

· 6th place: Emily Ortiz Ramirez and Alison Nieto, Uniondale High School

nine individual speaker awards and six team awards.

The tournament kicked off with an opening ceremony and featured three rounds of debates on a range of timely and engaging topics. State Senator Siela Bynoe and Assemblyman Michael Durso were on hand to show their support and cheer on the young debaters.

“Debate builds the essential skills of the 21st century—critical thinking, communication, collaboration and civic literacy—while empowering students to engage deeply with the issues that shape our world,” David Hollander, Uniondale school district’s director of social studies, said in a news release. “It transforms content into action and students into informed, persuasive citizens.”

During the closing ceremony the achievements of participating students, coaches, and volunteers were recognized. The Uniondale PTSA also contributed by running concessions, raising funds for senior scholarships.

Hollander extended special thanks to Uniondale’s faculty and staff, including security and custodial teams, and credited John O’Brien for technical and

low division.

photography support. He also praised the district’s debate coaches for their tireless work preparing students for competition.

“There are so many amazing District educators who helped with this event,” Hollander said in the release, “but we would like to give special attention to our outstanding coaches Felicia Lamboy, Yvonne Gonzalez, Roderick Peele, Michael Ambrogio, Alyssa Borkes, Keith Coles, Jonice Scott and Nina Saveth.” — Jeffrey Bessen

Mourning the loss of Pope Francis

STAFF REPORT

He became an ordained Jesuit priest at 33 and was the first pope from outside Europe in centuries, yet Pope Francis was known for his human touch.

He died on Easter Monday. He was born on Dec. 17, 1936.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio,, just before his 17th birthday, he was hurrying to meet friends when something directed him to go into the Basilica of St. Joseph in Buenos Aires that moved him to become a priest.

Jesuits are known for highlighting humility, aiding the poor and having respect for indigenous people.

Bishop John Barres who leads the Archdiocese of Rockville Centre noted those works in his statement.

“As we mourn the death of Pope Francis on this Easter Octave Monday and the gift of his contemplative global evangelization grounded in Matthew 25 and the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, we give thanks to Father, Son and Holy Spirit for his unique graces and charisms and the compelling way during his Pontificate that he has been a Light of Jesus Christ and the mission of mercy of the Catholic Church to the world,” he said.

“In Evangelii Gaudium (2013), Pope Francis speaks about the original freshness of the Gospel: “Jesus can also break through the dull categories with which we would enclose him and he constantly amazes us by his divine creativity. Whenever we make the effort to return to the source and to recover the original freshness of the Gospel, new avenues arise, new paths of creativity open up, with different forms of

expression, more eloquent signs and words with new meaning for today’s world. Every form of authentic evangelization is always ‘new.’”

Pope Francis was known for his charm and humility, and his everyman style.

“As a family of faith, we join the Church in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant, who led with compassion and simplicity,” St. Raphael Parish in East Meadow posted on Facebook. “May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

“It is with a deep sense of sorrow that we join the Universal Church and the whole world in mourning the death of our Supreme Pontiff, Pope Francis, who left this world to his Father this morning,” Father Eugene Umeor of Malverne’s Our Lady of Lourdes Church said in Monday’s morning prayer that are posted online. “I hope in the resurrection we continue to live out the values he taught us, universal love, his care for poor, the vulnerable, and all those in special needs.”

As pontiff, Francis was more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community that drew the ire of the more conservative members of the church.

“Today the Chair is Empty. Easter Sunday an empty tomb is found and we know Jesus our hope has risen,” said Mark Daley, former grand knight for Valley Stream Knights of Columbus. “Today we pray for our Pope who has Risen to be with God Our Father.”

Phyllis Zagano Ph.D., is senior research associate-in-residence in the Department of Religion at Hofstra University. One of the world’s foremost experts on the question of women deacons and in 2016 was appointed to serve on Pope Francis’ first commission to look at this issue. She was the only commissioner to travel from the Western Hemisphere.

“Pope Francis will be remembered as the pope who opened the door to more people, especially lay people, especially women, to participate in conversations about how the Church might best move forward,” Zagano said.

ELIzABEtH pOIROt

West Hempstead Senior Lacrosse

TO SAY POIROT is off to an incredible start would be an understatement. A year after leading Nassau County in goals with 74 to go along with 25 assists, she’s set a torrid pace so far and has the Rams at 4-3 entering this week’s action. She scored their last seven goals April 2 in a 13-11 victory over Freeport and has a county leading 41 goals and 53 points. In 2023 as a sophomore, she scored 45 times to rank =/ Nassau’s best.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, April 24

Softball: Freeport at Lynbrook ..............................4:30 p.m.

Baseball: South Side at New Hyde Park ...................5 p.m.

Baseball: Bethpage at East Meadow ........................5 p.m.

Baseball: MacArthur at Division ................................5 p.m.

Baseball: Mepham at Calhoun .................................5 p.m.

Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.

Softball: V.S. Central at West Hempstead ..................5 p.m.

Softball: Westbury at Hewlett ....................................5 p.m.

Softball: Mepham at Seaford ....................................5 p.m.

Softball: Wantagh at MacArthur ................................5 p.m.

Softball: Division at Plainedge ..................................5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at G. City (Mitchel Field) .....5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Hewlett .....................5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at South Side ................5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Massapequa at Wantagh ..................5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: V.S. District at West Hempstead ........5 p.m.

Girls Flag Football: MacArthur at Lynbrook...........6:30 p.m.

Friday, April 25

Baseball: C.S. Harbor at East Rockaway ...................5 p.m.

Baseball: Oceanside at Freeport ...............................5 p.m.

Baseball: North Shore at Malverne ...........................5 p.m.

Baseball: Sewanhaka at Lawrence ...........................5 p.m.

Softball: Massapequa at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

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

Offseason work boosts Uniondale

By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com

After a tough 2024, Uniondale head coach Hugh Charles knew that there had a be a changeup in the boys’ lacrosse program to see better results. For context, the Knights celebrated only one win last season, going 1-14.

“We did a lot of off-season work with the young men; when school got back into session, we would do Tuesdays and Thursdays for indoor [practices] and that really helped, at least help the guys keep their sticks in their hands and improve in their overall skill sets,” Charles said. “I think we’ve come a long way from where we’ve come last year, we had a really rough campaign last year,”

The Knights already have one win on the board against Roosevelt, 8-3, April 7. Prior to that victory, they played a tight match against Malverne/East Rockaway, where they lost 5-4. After that, they had a heartbreaker of a game against Clarke where they were up by three goals before the Rams went on a run and bested the Uniondale 11-8.

Last Saturday, Uniondale played Great Neck South and fell short 11-5. Tyreque James had a pair of goals, Chatelain Gaetan and Anthony Ortega had a pair of goals each and Andy Sorto dished out three assists in the effort. James and Oneil Webb Jr. had three apiece against Malverne/East Rockaway.

Results aren’t everything to Charles: he likes the fact that more guys tried out for the team: 67 this year, compared to around 40 from last year. While not everyone made the final roster, it proved his point to him that the off-season exposure drew in more players, which he anticipates will make for a more vivacious team.

Some standouts on the varsity squad include Chris Ganuza, a junior goalie, stopping 57% of goals this year. In the recent loss against Great Neck South, Ganuza stopped 20 of the 31 shots he faced for a 65% save percentage between the pipes.

Charles said that one of his top athletes this year was Adrian Ayala, a

senior midfielder; while he’s only seen limited time due to injury, his energy is felt on and off the field.

One of the leading scorers is Webb Jr., a senior attacker, and one who found the back of the net five times for Uniondale in their loss to Clarke.

Flanking is him another co-captain, the previously mentioned Gaetan, a senior defensive-midfielder, regarded as one of the local leaders amongst the Black Knights.

“He has really been pushing the squad in the right direction,” Charles said. Gaetan currently has seven goals and a pair of assists to his name.

Before this year, Gaetan spent most of his time is the defensive third of the

field, but this summer he saw some action in the midfield. Therefore, for Charles, it made sense to put one of his co-captains in a crucial transition spot.

“Pleasure to see him taking on that role and rising up to the challenge,” Charles said.

On the flip side of that, there’s the story of Jason Cruz, who’d been a midfielder his entire lacrosse career, until he suddenly showed talent and sharp-asa-tack instincts in the long-stick defense position. Charles & co. had no qualms slotting him there.

Uniondale has over half of its remaining schedule to make good on its promise and increase its win percentage.

Town hall

Laura Gillen answers questions on taxes and tariffs at Hofstra

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen answered the questions that are on hundreds of Nassau County residents’ minds at a town hall event on April 16. Gillen, who represents a large swath of the county’s South Shore, initially spoke about her current projects in Washington. But the majority of the meeting was a questionand-answer session, with questions submitted on index cards by audience members.

Q: How will Gillen work with Republicans to eliminate the cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes?

Gillen: She is a member of the bipartisan SALT Caucus, a group of representatives from states that pay the highest taxes in the country, as well as the

Ways and Means Committee, which dictates tax policy. She co-sponsored a bill with fellow Long Island Rep. Andrew Garbarino to reinstate the full SALT deduction.

Q: How will she protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid?

Gillen: “I (joined) 200 of my colleagues in writing a letter to the administration saying that we will not tolerate cuts to Social Security, to Medicaid or to Medicare,” she said.

“We can use our voice,” she continued. “You can use your voice also to reach out to Republicans on Long Island and tell them that you will not stand for these cuts to Medicaid, and put pressure on them so that maybe they will retreat from this position.”

Q: What is she planning to

do to oppose President Trump’s “illegal removal of migrants”?

Gillen: “I, like the majority of Americans, do believe that people who are undocumented and who commit crimes should be deported,” she said.

The main problem, according to Gillen, is that the administration is not following orders from the judiciary. “I support our Constitution,” she said. “I will fight in the halls of Congress to make sure the dear principles upon which this nation was founded

are upheld, and will work with my colleagues in Congress to push back against overreach of the executive branch.”

Q: How is she working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to keep it operational?

Gillen: She is a member of the Science, Space and Technology Committee. “I continue to advocate to make sure that we get the grants necessary to continue the important work of the CDC, and we are pushing back

on our caucus against any action to reduce the ability of the CDC to perform its important work,” she said.

A theme that Gillen emphasized was bipartisanship — whether with members of the administration, or with representatives across the aisle, she emphasized her desire to cooperate for the best results.

Q: Why hasn’t Congress stepped in to prevent a trade war?

Gillen: She supports a new bipartisan bill, the Trade Policy Relief Act, which would “reassert Congress’s authority over trade policy.” The bill would give Congress the authority to review any tariff policies implemented by the administration for 60 days, and to cancel a tariff it does not consider justified.

Q: Why did sheen vote for the Laken Riley Act?

Gillen: “Homeland Security has the right to detain undocumented folks who commit crimes,” she said of the act, which gives federal authorities broader power to deport immigrants accused of crimes. “This expanded the types of crimes that could require mandatory detention. I am proud to join a number of Democrats who voted for this legislation.”

UNIONDALE SCHOOLS

Dual-language immersion

25+ AP & dual-credit courses

Championship athletics

Grant-funded after school programs

Specialized support for all learners

Herald gala celebrates L.I.’s top lawyers

Legal excellence and community service are honored at Heritage Club gathering of 300

By Brian Norman

Some of Long Island’s top attorneys were honored for their professional achievements and community contributions at the 2025 Herald Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala at the Heritage Club in Bethpage on April 8.

More than 300 people attended the gala, where 50 of Long Island’s top attorneys, nominated by their peers, were recognized for their professional excellence and dedication to their communities.

Before the awards ceremony, attorneys gathered for a cocktail hour, where they had the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow honorees and colleagues.

Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., opened the ceremony by thanking all of those who were in attendance for their dedication to their professions and the people they serve. “Lawyers are pivotal in navigating business and personal matters, and we admire the commitment that our honorees have to their clients and all of the institutions they serve,” Richner said.

He added that a portion of the proceeds from the gala would be donated to the WE CARE fund, the charitable arm of the Nassau County Bar Association. The gala attracted representatives from law firms across Long Island. Among those honored were Minevich Law Group, Villacorta Law Group, JAG Law Group, Schroder & Storm LLP, and Meyer Suozzi Attorneys at Law.

Thomas A. Kenniff, a criminal defense attorney and founding partner of Raiser & Kenniff P.C., was the keynote speaker. He detailed his high-profile defense of Marine veteran Daniel Penny last year, when the Long Island native was acquitted of homicide charges stemming from a fatal subway confrontation with a man who had a history of violent behavior.

Kenniff said he was humbled to speak in front of the gala honorees, and honored to be recognized by his peers as the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.

“It’s very humbling, and it’s difficult to speak and be recognized by a crowd of this caliber,” he said. “You look around the room and see first-class attorneys, household names in the legal industry, and you can’t help but ask yourself, ‘Why me?’ It’s a tremendous honor.”

Nicholas Papain, director and managing member of Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C., was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Papain, who has spent his entire career with the firm since joining it in 1978, has been a personal injury lawyer for 47 years. He has represented families of first responders to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and played a key role in securing a $700 million settlement for rescue and recovery workers.

“I represent people who have been

Hundreds attended to celebrate award winners recognition.

catastrophically injured, and offer them, through our work for them, some financial security for the losses that they have suffered,” Papain said. “It’s a huge honor, I am very humbled by it, I am very appreciative of it, and I am fortunate to be in this position.”

Other honorees included Svetlana Minevich, of the Minevich Law Group, named top health care attorney; Eduardo M. Villacorta, of Villacorta Law Group, recognized as top immigration attorney; and Marjorie Mesidor, of Mesidor PLLC, honored as top employ-

ment discrimination attorney. Mesidor said that to be recognized for what she does drives her to do well. “To be recognized for the work that you are doing is always a great motivator, particularly in times like these, where you feel like there is a lot going on in our country both socially and politically and in the legal field,” Mesidor said. “So this helps to put a little gas in your tank, so to speak, and encourages me to keep going.”

Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP was among the firms with multiple members

The Schroder and Strom, LLP team, Allison Brewi (left), Nicolette MainiMoligano, Robert Goldstein, Esq., Edward Mohlenhoff, Esq., Anthony Forzaglia, Esq., Honorees Joseph C. Packard, Esq. and Christopher P. Byrnes Esq., Jeremy May, Esq., Asad Jilani, Michael Spellman, Esq. (right).

honored, and was recognized as the Top Law Firm on Long Island for the seventh consecutive year. Managing Partner Joseph G. Milizio said that it was a great feeling to receive the award at this point in his career.

“This award is an honor, and it means that I am at a stage in my career where I am able to be recognized for the things that I have done,” he said, “and that is a great feeling.”

For a full list of honorees and to view more pictures please visit: RichnerLive. com/toplawyerawards.

Hopping, hunting and having Easter fun

The day before Easter was full of sunshine and that warm weather which let’s you know it’s spring.

The community egg hunt took place outside the John J. Byrne Community Center in Uniondale on April 19.

Children and adults took in the arts & crafts, the bouncy castle, face painting, food trucks, music, the photo booth and vendor tables. The Easter Bunny hopped around as well.

— Jeffrey Bessen

The Nation’s Largest, 1-Day Food Drive

SATURDAY,

5K showcases civic love for veterans

Story The rain and cold stop supporters from showing up to Eisenhower Park on April 12 for the Building Homes for Heroes: Honoring Our Heroes 5K Run/Walk, as over a hundred runners braved the weather to back a cause close to home.

Building Homes for Heroes, a nonprofit dedicated to providing mortgage-free homes for injured veterans, first responders, and their families, returned to Long Island for its first local race in about a decade. While the weather was far from ideal, the spirit of the event shined through as runners and walkers hit the course to raise funds and awareness.

The Long Island-based organization, which now has a significant national presence, has its roots in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Founder Andy Pujol, a businessman and philanthropist, volunteered in search and rescue efforts at Ground Zero. Inspired to support wounded veterans returning from service, Pujol launched Building Homes for Heroes with a goal of gifting just one home.

Since then, the group has expanded dramatically.

“In the last few years, we’ve actually reached 40 homes a year, and we have a lofty goal to reach as many as 50 this year, in 2025,” said David Weingrad, director of communications for the nonprofit. “We build homes, we modify homes, all free for the veteran.

servicemen and women.”

Over a decade of steady growth culminated in a major milestone earlier this year, when the organization gifted its 400th home. Its work doesn’t end there.

“The struggles don’t end when they complete their deployment — they still have their whole life to figure out,”

Discover Long Island gears up for busy tourism season

Discover Long Island, the marketing organization promoting Long Island to the world, held its annual meeting and legislative breakfast at Hilton Long Island on March 14.

Discover LI presented its agenda for the year and premiered its new YouBelong campaign, featuring stories of local Long Islanders and business owners. “2025 is already proving to be a monumental year, and there is much more on the horizon,” said Mitchell Pally, chairman of the Discover LI board of directors.

In 2023, travelers spent $7.5 billion while visiting Long Island, in large part as a result of Discover Long Island’s global marketing of the region as a premier travel destination. With events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby” and the 2026 NHL All-Star Game, Long Island is expecting an unprecedented number of visitors in the coming months.

–Madison Gusler

The role of tourism in boosting the local economy

The goal of Discover LI is to increase tourism in the region, because tourism drives revenue across the Island. Over 42 million tourists visited Long Island in 2023, generating $900 million in local and state tax revenue. During peak season, tourism generates over 100,000 jobs.

With 11 social media channels and over 10 million followers, Discover LI promotes Long Island tourism to audiences around the globe.

Targeting high-value international visitors and promoting local exploration

Discover LI’s team attends tourism trade shows around the world to promote Long Island internationally. They target high-value visitors who spend more when they visit. When travelers come to LI from outside the region, they spend on hotels, dining and activities.

And Discover LI isn’t ignoring residents, featuring hyper-local marketing that aims to acquaint Long Islanders with new experiences in their own backyards.

Discover LI’s digital advances, with NearMe app and AI implementation

Discover LI has made strides in digital options for those planning a visit. Its AI chatbot, LiLi, was launched in 2024, and has since sent 6,071 messages. LiLi speaks a number of languages, and has saved Discover LI staff more than 200 hours of work.

The Discover LI app, which has seen a 300 percent increase in downloads since 2024, generates suggestions for dining and entertainment near users and provides information about the area.

STEPPING OUT

An Evening with Misty Copeland

By Karen Bloom

pring is calling — and there’s no better place to answer than at Old Westbury Gardens. As blooms burst into color and we shake off winter — and early spring’s chill — the beloved 200-acre historic estate is the perfect place to be.

Now a few weeks into its re-opening, this idyllic landmark is ready to enchant visitors with its lush gardens, a refreshed Westbury House and a calendar packed with events and activities. And this momentous season marks the conclusion of its 65th anniversary year as a public garden and historic home.

For Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens’ president and horticulturist extraordinaire, the milestone continues to carry a deep meaning.

“Our anniversary year is still ongoing and we have so much to offer,” she says. “And we’re excited about the event we have planned for the 100th anniversary of ‘The Great Gatsby’ being published.”

Gatsby enthusiasts will have to wait for fall to celebrate iconic novel. In the meantime, there’s so much to enjoy — right now.

“When the gardens first opened to the public, it was Peggy Phipps and her friends who helped usher in that new chapter. Sixty-five years later, we’re still here, thriving,” Brush says. It’s a real testament to how loved these gardens are.”

Indeed, it’s not just about surviving — it’s about flourishing. The estate, once home to prominent lawyer John Shaffer Phipps, draws record numbers of visitors and members alike, year after year, enticed by its historic charm and horticultural magic.

And that magic begins the moment you step through the gates.

“All winter long you’re sort of just looking for any signs of life in the garden,” Brush says, about the transition to spring.

“The smallest snowdrop or crocus means the world. And then when you hit this time of year it feels like I can take a walk in the garden in the morning, and by the afternoon something else has sprung up. I love that the garden really changes almost day to day.”

One of her favorite early spring spots? The serene lakeside.

“In the early part of the season, the lake areas are just

Old Westbury Gardens sets its sights on the exciting conclusion of a milestone anniversary year

stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the

stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the sunlight dances on the water,” she says.

Keep your eyes open for some of the garden’s wildest residents: turtles sunning on logs, ducks gliding and birdsong echoing through the trees.

“This time of year you start to see the turtles more,” she notes. “The logs are filled with those turtles trying to get their Vitamin D, getting any sun they can.”

Just like us.

• Old Westbury Gardens

71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

Another mustvisit is the delightful Primrose Path, at its peak in April through mid-May. Here, you’ll find delicate primroses in vibrant hues, forget-me-nots and a scattering of ephemerals — in an expression seasonal joy.

As spring progresses, Old Westbury Gardens transforms week by week. Daffodils, fritillaria, tulips, and more unfurl in careful succession, planned and planted by Brush’s dedicated team.

Of course, you’ll want to head over to the Walled Garden where tulips are in spring’s spotlight.

“The tulips change every year. What we really try to do is create a display that starts with the very early spring tulips and goes to the late bloomers,” Brush explains.

Some appear in early April while others flower closer to May, or even in the middle of May.

“We take a lot of pride in the tulip display,” she continues. “The combinations are very thoughtful. We’ll find a tulip that we really like and then we’ll try to find a pansy or some other annual that has some colors that bring out the tulip’s color and coordinate with that tulip. One row might be very ‘hot’ with ambers and yellows and oranges and then the center aisle will be very ‘cool’ with pale pink and silvery blues and purples. The Walled Garden is a masterpiece.”

Each year Old Westbury Gardens offers a soul-refreshing way to celebrate spring’s return. Plus the extensive schedule of programs enhances its surroundings — and its rich heritage.

“I am especially proud of the dynamic public programming we have curated,” Brush says.“Beloved favorites like Dog Days and Midsummer Nights return, alongside exciting new additions. From inspiring art programs and wellness, we always have a rich roster of programming because that’s who we are.

“It’s a legacy to the Phipps family that their lovely home is so enjoyed by so many people. I think that’s what Peggy envisioned when she so generously gifted Old Westbury Gardens. She had a very happy childhood and life here. Her vision was she would be able to share some of that with the generations to come after her. And that’s exactly what she’s done.”

So go ahead — let spring sweep you away. The gates are open, the flowers are blooming and it’s all more spectacular than ever.

Experience an intimate and inspiring night with Misty Copeland, the trailblazing ballerina who made history as the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. Hear her incredible journey, from overcoming obstacles to becoming a global icon in the dance world and beyond. Copeland has often spoken out about being “different” in the ballet scene. From living in a motel to dancing on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House, her story of perseverance through poverty, racism, and overcoming setbacks from injury has made Copeland an inspiring figure to millions. She is joined in conversation by screenwriterauthor-producer Susan Fales-Hill. She reflects on lessons learned, the remarkable mentors who have guided her on her path and her hopes and aspirations for the future. Also enjoy a performance by members of the prestigious ABT Studio Company, media from Misty’s legendary and trailblazing career, and some surprises, including students of Copeland’s Be Bold program, her groundbreaking afterschool dance initiative.

Saturday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Jessie’s Girl

Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those wild days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/ pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Jessie’s Girl has mastered over-the-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. Theater meets live music — covered with a load of ‘80s glitz.

Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. $49.50, $37.50, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR 25

Summer Camp

Register the kids for Uniondale Community Council’s summer day camp ages 7 to 12, July 7 to Aug. 8, weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Arts & crafts, cooking, field trips, fun & games, library, reading, sports and water play. Cost: $750 before April 30, $800 afterwards.

•Where: 806 Jerusalem Ave., Uniondale

•Contact: (516) 538-9487 or uccyp@optonline.net.

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.

•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.

•Time: Ongoing

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

‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’

The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: Also April 27, April 30-May 1, times vary

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

APR

Giada Valenti’s ‘From Italy with Love’ Enjoy an evening of romantic songs in English, Italian and Spanish at the Madison Theatre. This exquisite concerts celebrates the enchantment of Italy, showcasing the captivating persona and velvety vocals of Giada Valenti. Her voice evokes memories of Celine Dion’s powerful vocals blended with the charm of Edith Piaf, accompanied by remarkable

MAY 2

Pink Talking Fish

through easy choreographies inspired from the TV series and talks about how the Bridgerton dances differ from the dances of the actual Regency/Jane Austen era. Ages 16+ welcome.

•Where: The Barn at Orchard Hill, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: Noon-1 p.m.

•Contact: oldwestburygardens.org

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and listen to “Jane Austen: Little People Big Dreams” by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage. Registration required.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

•Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington

• Time: 8 p.m.

•Contact: landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Three mammoth bands. Three musical phenomenons. One idea inspired by love of the music. That’s Pink Talking Fish. The hybrid tribute fusion act takes the music from three iconic bands creating a remarkable musical jam. PTF brings their unique sound to the Landmark on Main Street stage, on their latest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incredible Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here.” This show consists of two sets. The first will be a full rendition of this epic album from start to finish, with “Classic PTF” combinations in the second set. “Wish You Were Here” is extremely meaningful to the band members and so many music lovers around the world and PTF is thrilled to bring this album to life in 2025. Although the music from each act is different, PTF has discovered that fusing the material together creates an amazing story. The epic emotion of Pink Floyd; the funky, danceable layerings of The Talking Heads; the styles, unique compositional structures and pure fun of Phish — to merge these three into one gives music lovers a special experience. Tickets are $49 and $46.

special guests. Hailing from Venice, Giada promises an unforgettable performance filled with passion, emotion, and pure musical artistry. From the hauntingly beautiful “The Prayer” to the romantic “A Place for Us” from Romeo and Juliet, she mesmerizes with stunning interpretations of beloved tunes.

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

Arbor Day Festival

Planting Fields Arboretum State Park welcomes all to its annual Arbor Day Festival, celebrating the importance of trees and environmental conservation. Activities include exciting children’s crafts, kids tree climb with Wonderland Tree Care, plant clinic, tree seedling giveaways, educational booths, tree plantings with Smokey the Bear in which everyone can participate, and more. $30 per vehicle. Registration recommended.

•Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay.

•Time: Through April 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

APR 30

Feel the beat with Carole’s Kings

Plaza Theatricals continues its tribute series with a lively look at the Carole King songbook. The iconic singer-songwriter gets a brand-new sound with Carole’s Kings, the world’s first all-male Carole King tribute. This dynamic performance is jam-packed with chart-topping sensations such as “The Locomotion,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and many more. $40, $35 seniors.

•Where: Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont.

•Time: 2 p.m.

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

Tech

Help

MAY

1

Do you find technology confusing? Are you interested in eBooks or other digital services, but don’t know where to start? If so, then be sure to visit Uniondale Public Library for free 1-on-1 tech help. Reservations required.

•Where: 400 Uniondale Ave., Uniondale

• Time: Ongoing

•Contact: uniondalelibrary.org or (516) 489-2220

MAY

2

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

MAY

6

Long Island Marathon Weekend

The Long Island Marathon and additional races return to Eisenhower Park with three days packed with races for runners of all ages and abilities, through May 4.

•Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

•Time: Varying times on Friday, Saturday & Sunday

•Contact: RunSignUp.com/ Race/NY/EastMeadow/ LongIslandMarathon

MAY

3

‘Bridgerton’inspired dance workshop

Learn to dance like Simon and Daphne! Enjoy an hour of grace and merriment at Old Westbury Gardens and learn some of the dances from the “Bridgerton” and “Queen Charlotte” series. No experience is necessary and no partner is needed. Instructor Susan de Guardiola guides participants

Budget Hearing

The Uniondale school district’s Board of Education holds a budget hearing at its action meeting.

•Where: Little Theater of Uniondale High School, 933 Goodrich St., Uniondale.

•Time: 7 p.m.

Estate Planning

Join attorney Annabel Bazante at Uniondale Public Library when she discusses the importance of planning for the future. Topics include wills, healthcare proxy, power of attorney, and how to avoid probate.

•Where: 400 Uniondale Ave., Uniondale.

•Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

•Contact: uniondalelibrary.org or (516) 489-2220

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.

COME

Nassau County Police Department's

100TH ANNIVERSARY

STREET PARADE including

• Block Party

• Live Music

• Antique Cars

• Horses

• Motorcycles

• Pipe Bands

• Helicopter Flyover and so much more!

PARADE STEP-OFF: 2:00pm

STARTING POINT: Wantagh Avenue at Beltagh Avenue in Wantagh

ENDING POINT:

Beech Street and Park Avenue. Block party will take place at Railroad Avenue immediately after from 3:00pm-8:00pm.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27TH 2:00PM

Rain date: Sunday, May 4, 2025

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff - against - ALICE B. MARR, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 18, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 6th day of May, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 868 Smith Street, Uniondale, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11553. (SBL#: 50-427-19)

Approximate amount of lien $322,890.02 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 612309/2023. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

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

Dated: March 11, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 152561

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff - againstJAMES H. WATSON, JR. A/K/A JAMES WATSON, JR., et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 21, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 6th day of May, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Unincorporated Area of Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Premises known as 2 Second Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575. (Section: 55, Block: 450, Lot: 55, 56) Approximate amount of lien $250,721.01 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 617500/2023. Peter L. Kramer, Esq., Referee. 516-510-4020. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

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

Dated: March 6, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued

by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 152559

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST

David A. Nobrega; Joylyn A. Nobrega; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 8, 2015 and amended November 3, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1298 Birch Street, Uniondale, NY 11553-2008. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 50 Block 572 Lot 0015. Approximate amount of judgment $248,768.87 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 004891/2014.

Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine”.

Janine T Lynam, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: April 1, 2025 152860

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. MTAG, AS CUSTODIAN FOR ALTERNA FUNDING I, LLC, Pltf. vs. DANIEL C. BROWN, et al, Defts. Index #002241/2017. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Nov. 23, 2022, I will sell at public auction on North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 371 First Place, Uniondale, NY

a/k/a School District 2, Section 50, Block 109, Lot 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $21,571.20 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. ADRIENNE FLIPSE HAUSCH, Referee. BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 703, New York, NY 10019. File No. 700999.132#102222 152980

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST SHABAZZ ABDUL-ALIM AKA SHABAZZ ABDUL ALIM, KISHA OLIVER, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 27, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 20, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 317 Fenimore Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 34, Block 500, Lot 240-241. Approximate amount of judgment $359,691.55 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613539/2018. Rita Solomon, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-006311 84821 152923

Kennedy Park plays host to Easter egg hunt

Hundreds of Village of Hempstead youngsters raced to gather a portion of the 6,000 Easter Eggs that were scattered on the grounds of the Kennedy Memorial Park on April 18. In addition to eggs of all colors, and the Easter Bunny, the kids also rushed to find the golden eggs that entitled them to special prizes.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

WILMINGTON

SAVINGS FUND

SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2019-HB1, Plaintiff, AGAINST

UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF CORINE RAY A/K/A CORINE L RAY, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-ofkin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any

right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on October 31, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 755 Northgate Dr, Uniondale, NY 11553. Please take notice that

Hempstead Parks and Recreation Superintendent Yolanda Hutcherson was in the gym where the children played in the bounce houses, did arts and crafts and ate treats with hot chocolate.

this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 55, Block 531 and Lot 18. Approximate amount

of judgment $470,123.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #001250/2016 | 16-001250. Michael Alpert, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 153093

CNA: MALE & FEMALE CAREGIVERS Experienced with a wide range of Medical Care including Dementia, Alzheimer's & Parkinson Patients. Caring & Dependable. Driver. References Available. Derrick@917-363-8924 Business/Opportunities

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Cemetery Plots

CEMETERY PLOT FOR TWO For Sale: Pinelawn Cemetery. Garden Of Normandy North. Price Negotiable. 516-375-1905

LRedoing a basement before the tariffs kick in

Q. We bought our home three years ago, and are finally ready to finish our basement to make a family room, guest bedroom and a bathroom while enclosing our laundry. Right now it’s just a big open space with a lot of columns. The ceiling is low, and we’ve had estimates to cut down the basement floor. It seems like a lot of money to do all these things at once, but we understand that we need to do it before the prices for materials, as we’ve been warned, go a lot higher. We want to know what needs to be done if we want to lower the floor, take out two columns so our recreation room is bigger, and put in a bathroom. Is there any way to save money?

A. I doubt that you’ll save money, since you are correct that prices are creeping up, but only because of the uncertainty of markets. It seems that the Canada lumber tariffs may not take affect so rapidly, because Congress — including those from both sides of the aisle — is reportedly working on bills to stop the economic strife with our neighbor to the north. But it’s anybody’s guess, right now, day to day.

Basements have always seemed so minor when compared with additions and other renovations, but there are many safety codes you should become familiar with. First, many jurisdictions disallow any sleeping room in basements. Bathrooms are allowed in most jurisdictions, but verify whether a bathing fixture, shower or tub, is allowed. Some will only allow a toilet and sink.

You also need a second means of escape from the main room, not just the staircase you already have from the first floor. You’ll need an escape window or stairwell to the outside. If you choose a window, the sill can’t be more than 44 inches above the floor, and the window must have at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, swinging outward into a 9-squarefoot (3 feet by 3 feet minimum) area of escape well with a ladder to get out to the ground level. I’ve watched these escape wells go from $3,500 to $12,000 over the past decade.

You will also be required to insulate the basement walls, and insulation must meet the State Energy Code, because when the basement is done legally, with a permit, it must pass the energy code analysis submission to the state’s website portal.

Many people, hearing all these requirements, elect to skirt the rules by hiring someone who does what they think will pass. When you are required to legalize the work, as the responsible party (the homeowner) in the process, sometimes work has to be redone because someone missed something. There’s a reason that professionals have to be involved, and it’s best not to try to save money by avoiding the inevitable, because experience teaches that the rules don’t get simpler over time. More next week.

© 2022 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte

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Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry

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Cable/TV/Wiring

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Electricians

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opinions Liberty Water customers, we need your help

picking up right where we left off last legislative session, the Liberty Water team has been hard at work, talking with New York’s elected officials about providing meaningful rate relief to customers. Currently, roughly 30 percent of a Liberty customer’s bill is made up of taxes that provide no benefit to the water system itself. The disproportionate level of taxes paid by our customers unnecessarily drives up the cost of water. That is unjust, but thankfully, we are keeping up the momentum from last year’s efforts to eliminate the special franchise tax — which makes up a significant portion of the overall taxes paid by Liberty customers — and to provide access to the state’s drinking water infrastructure grant programs. Once again, we are

asking our customers to join us in this fight in Albany, and use the tools we have created to make their voices heard.

Stopthehiddentax.org is our advocacy website, and we encourage every Liberty New York Water customer to visit and use it to take action. Showing your support for these legislative changes is very simple. Visit the website, click on the “Take Action” tab and fill out some basic information. Once it is submitted, a letter will automatically be sent on your behalf to key decision-makers who can move this legislation forward.

Jextremely impactful, and will build on the nearly 60,000 letters that have been sent to elected officials in the past year.

oin us in the fight in Albany to stop the hidden taxes and lower your water bills.

Showing overwhelming support from our customers for this legislative change will move the needle. If you are one of the more than 3,600 Liberty customers who have already taken action through the site, take action again. The continuous reinforcement to our elected officials that you want to see these cost-saving efforts become a reality is

As a company, we continue to make a strong case to the prominent policymakers on behalf of our customers, and the message is resonating. Legislation to eliminate the special franchise tax as well as to provide access to public grant funding has been introduced again this year. Right now it is vital that the elected officials responsible for moving the bill through the legislative process hear from our customers. For those who want to see lower water bills, going to Stopthehiddentax. org and sending a letter to state leaders takes less than five minutes, and policymakers won’t be able to ignore the voices of our 125,000 customers.

While the taxes collected do help fund local taxing jurisdictions, it is our firm belief that these taxes should not be collected through customer water bills. Making matters worse, our cus-

tomers are the only ones in Nassau County who have to pay this excessive tax. Moreover, your tax dollars are being used to fund water infrastructure projects throughout the state that Liberty is currently ineligible to access. Once again, those dollars are being collected without any benefit returning to the water system in your community. I want to be perfectly clear on one final point: The only advantage Liberty stands to gain in pursuing this legislative change is water rates that more accurately reflect the true cost of providing high-quality water service. That’s it. It is written into the proposed legislation that Liberty cannot realize any financial benefit from either bill.

So what can our customers do? Visit stopthehiddentax.org, click on the “Take Action” section, and fill in your information to have a letter sent on your behalf directly to key decisionmakers. There is power in numbers, and we are hoping every one of our customers will join the fight for lower bills. Let your voice be heard!

Deborah Franco is president of Liberty Water New York.

Find

a ‘third place’ to leave loneliness behind

in New York, across the country and around the world, people are experiencing a loneliness epidemic that humankind has never seen before. I believe this is due to the fact that many people are emotionally further apart, even if they think they feeler closer together and more connected with the use of technology. During the global pandemic in 2020, a spotlight shined on how lonely the human species had become in the modern era. One thing about pandemics is that they don’t actually bring down a society; they just reveal the cracks that already exist within it. Some of the cracks the pandemic highlighted were evidence of the breakdown in how people communicate and interact with one another.

In a podcast episode about adult friendships, author Mel Robbins refers to the “Great Scattering,” which, she says, occurs at different times in people’s lives. One of the first great scat-

terings she refers to takes place when people graduate from college and start their adult lives. Typically, from grade school through high school and college, many of us are in environments that offer proximity with one another, as we mark the same milestones and share life events. Once those environments shift and proximity becomes more limited, people may begin to feel lost and confused about how to find friends and interact with people who aren’t in the same cohort or phase of life.

shared activities. There I’ve met so many people from various backgrounds, and we all come together to connect, with the common goal of sharing fellowship and giving back to our community.

W e’re more connected than ever, but we’re often left feeling more alone.

After these great scatterings, many adults struggle to find people who have similar interests. It’s also a challenge to find and connect with others in person rather than behind a screen. Most people have two main “places” in their lives, their homes and their workplaces. But it’s in a third place that there is the opportunity to make friends, connect and combat the feeling of loneliness.

My third place is my local Rotary club. It’s a place outside both work and home where I have the chance to meet like-minded people and engage in

This kind of third place allows you to take a break from your regular day-today life and become part of something bigger than yourself.

I know I have combated, and still combat, loneliness, but there is significantly less now that I have that third place to go and just be, and connect with others face to face. It gives me a sense of creativity and belonging, and a much-needed break from the daily stresses of life.

One’s third place should align with one’s own values. It can be anywhere that offers informal social interaction, connection and a shared activity — a community organization, a sport, a book club, volunteer work, an art class, a gardening club, a bowling league. In a third place, there’s a positive sum for all instead of a zero sum for just one.

The connections we make in these third places help build character, and connect us to our neighbors and to a

community, which reminds us that we’re not alone. I would advise anyone to take that first step, and find that place. It will make you healthier and less stressed, and remind you that you’re part of a bigger world.

For thousands of years, humans traveled together, because it was safer to be in a group than to be on their own in the wild. In today’s society, social media and smartphones give us the illusion of being more connected, yet they often leave us feeling more alone, as if in the wild. Humans eventually learned that we had to come in from the wild, and form civilizations and societies, because we were safer together.

We need contact and in-person interaction, but modern society is a technological wilderness. I believe it’s time more of us left the wilderness and found that third place, to gather and once again build community. That’s how the human race can become more civilized, as our ancestors did thousand of year ago. Becoming part of a community will be the beginning of the end of the loneliness epidemic in the modern era.

Now tell me, what will your third place be?

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Small Business Week celebrates entrepreneurs

every May for more than 60 years, the United States has taken the time to celebrate a crucial force in its economy: the small-business owner. This year during National Small Business Week, May 4 to 10, we will honor the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation, drives local economies, and creates opportunity in communities across the country.

It’s important to recognize that this is more than just a ceremonial observance. Small Business Week is a chance to spotlight the backbone of America’s economic engine and the importance of supporting the 33 million small businesses nationwide.

Two of their biggest backers are the federal Small Business Administration and SCORE, a nonprofit organization that has mentored more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. The SBA is a government agency that promotes and safeguards the interests of small businesses. Its mission is to support them and help them thrive, because they are such a vital component of the nation’s economy. The SBA provides access to federal contracts, counseling and financing, among other resources, to help these business grow.

Together, the SBA and SCORE will offer invaluable resources to both aspiring and established business owners at the annual National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event May 6 and 7. It will offer more than educational workshops; it will be a showcase of what’s possible when the public and private sectors collaborate.

That effort will include mentorships,

letters

Remembering ‘Steady Eddie’

To the Editor:

practical advice and access to federal programs and tools that can help smallbusiness owners navigate the myriad challenges they face, from financing to digital marketing.

The Summit won’t just be about learning — it will also be about community. Consider the sheer number of small businesses that dot the landscape of the cities, towns and villages that Herald newspapers cover. How many do you patronize on a regular basis, from your favorite pizza place to your favorite stationery store or barbershop? Many are anchors of their neighborhoods or downtown commercial areas, making towns into home towns.

Beyond the summit, the SBA is organizing in-person events across the country, including a national awards celebration in Washington, D.C., on May 5. There will be local events as well, giving municipalities the chance to recognize their own standout entrepreneurs.

But why should National Small Business Week matter to everyone — not just business owners? Because small businesses do more than sell products and services. They create jobs. Half of all U.S. workers are employed by small and medium-sized businesses, which contribute 43 percent of the country’s GDP. Small businesses mentor future leaders. They drive innovation. They support schools, sponsor local Little League teams, and strengthen the fabric of our communities.

Almost every dollar spent at a small business goes back into the local economy. And during challenging times, as we saw during the coronavirus pandemic,

Re Peter King’s column, “Ed Kranepool was the real Mr. Met,” last week: As a graduate of James Monroe High School in the Bronx (I entered as Kranepool left), I was following even his high school career, because my dad umpired high school games as Ed chased Hank Greenberg’s (no relation) career high school home run record.

As an aside, the title of Jimmy Breslin’s book, “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?” was a quote by Casey Stengel as he appraised his new team.

JOEL GREENBERG Merrick

Time for a bigger, better bottle bill

To the Editor:

Over 40 years ago, I walked with a group of concerned citizens from Inwood, Manhattan, to the Coca-

these businesses often demonstrate resilience and creativity that not only help their communities endure those times, but inspire new ways to overcome them, bringing residents closer together in the process.

Smart legislation is critical, too. State Sen. Monica Martinez, whose district covers parts of Long Island, recently introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act. This bill would provide truly small businesses — 10 employees or fewer — as well as minority-, female- or veteran-owned businesses of any size with a tax credit of up to $4,000 so they can advertise their products and services.

Supporting small businesses is a yearround responsibility, but next month’s special week will give us a chance to recommit to their success. Whether you attend the virtual summit, shop locally, or simply share the story of a small business that inspired you, there are countless ways to show support.

To learn more about this year’s events, to register for the summit, or to find a celebration near you, visit SBA. gov/NSBW. And be sure to follow along, and join the national conversation, at #SmallBusinessWeek. Throughout the year, the Herald offers small businesses webinars and training, too, and we encourage businesses to sign up for these valuable sessions.

In celebrating this special week, we celebrate the grit, vision and drive that continue to shape our nation by shaping its economy — one idea, one storefront and one hardworking entrepreneur at a time.

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opinions Reconnecting with old friends

the other week I had the pleasure of flying to Atlanta to celebrate the wedding of two good friends. The ceremony was beautiful, the bride and groom were happy, and nothing disturbed the sanctity of the moment.

What really struck me was how much fun I had seeing a bunch of old friends from college and high school, and how much I’d missed spending time with them.

The groom and I had gone to neighboring colleges, although we’d known each other for years through mutual friends. I spent so much time over my four years with him and the other kids at St. Andrews university that there were some days when I thought I knew their campus better than mine. Certainly I knew where all the cheapest bars in their town were. But after graduation, we all went our separate ways, as happens. While we

kept in touch sporadically, the demands of life and work — not to mention the pandemic and general global craziness — meant that I rarely, if ever, saw or talked to many people who only a few years before I’d hung out with every day. until this recent weekend, when we spent practically every waking moment getting up to our old shenanigans again. It sounds cliché to say, but it truly felt like no time had passed.

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every weekend. And for many young people, this connection is something that we’re all deeply missing.

Most people are aware that there is a loneliness epidemic in America.

fter college, we went our separate ways, but it was silly of me not to reach out before.

The most astonishing part was finding out how many of these friends now lived so close to me, with the majority of them having moved to New York City in the past few years. The last I’d heard from them, they were scattered as far apart as Los Angeles and London; little did I know that most of them now lived less than an hour away on the LIRR. I’ve already made plans to see some of them again soon.

That got me thinking about how silly it was of me not to reach out before. A simple text, “Hey, how’s it going, dude?” and I could have been seeing them

Letters

Cola plant in Tarrytown to call attention to the fact that New York state needed a bottle deposit bill. I was sore for three weeks! We achieved victory, and New York passed the Returnable Container Act, commonly known as the Bottle Bill. This landmark law has proven to be a highly effective program, reducing litter and increasing recycling rates in our state.

Albany now needs to support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill (S5684, A6543). This legislation would raise bottle and can deposits from 5 to 10 cents, which would increase redemption rates, support some of our state’s most marginalized workers and further reduce litter. The nickel deposit was enacted into law in 1983. If it were adjusted for inflation, it would be 15 cents today.

This bill could generate as much as $100 million for the state, and those funds could be used to address limits on redemption options in low-income communities and other litter and solid waste problems. It would also create more consistency by including sports drinks, iced tea, wine and spirits and more. With more beverage types included, there would be more recycling, less confusion and less pollution.

We must stop littering our Earth with one-time-use disposable bottles. This 42-yearold law needs to be updated. Here’s hoping our Legislature and governor will carry this bill through to fruition.

JoSEpH M. VARoN West Hempstead

Food

According to a study released in 2024 by the American psychiatric Association, 30 percent of adults experience feelings of loneliness at least once a week, with 10 percent admitting that they feel lonely every day.

This is even more pronounced in young people, with 30 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 saying they are lonely every day or several times a week.

This crisis, while not as immediately obvious as a drug or disease epidemic, is just as insidious in its negative impact on the health of our country and our communities. A variety of factors are believed to contribute to this problem, from technology to being overworked to our hyper-focused sense of individualism.

While experts argue about the cause, the negative results speak for themselves. Humans are naturally social

& Water Watch, and Beyond Plastics.

Surely we can shelter the homeless and their pets

To the Editor:

There is a desperate need for Nassau County politicians to establish a homeless shelter for people with pets.

There is nothing more emotionally jarring than looking into the eyes of a person who has lost everything and, in order to be admitted to a shelter, must surrender a beloved lifelong companion to an animal rescue — or continue to live on the streets — because Nassau County has no place for the two of them to go.

And it’s equally soul-wrenching to sit with a newly surrendered homeless animal, confused and scared, and console them as they get one last glimpse of the best friend they adored unconditionally.

Last month, the Safe Center of Long Island, in Bethpage, closed. Isn’t there a space like this that can be used as shelter for both the homeless and their pets?

politicians, for decades you have been telling homeless people what they need, instead of asking them. They have told me through their tears, and their animal friends by their despair. Will you act, or continue to look away from the truly voiceless, who in your campaign speeches you profess you will be a champion for.

DANA

FuCHS Long Beach

Dana Fuchs works at an animal rescue facility.

animals, and when we are unable to socialize, for whatever reason — from prisoners in solitary confinement to teenage shut-ins who spend all of their time online — the effects of being separated from others take a serious mental and physical toll on our health.

Studies have compared the impact of loneliness on our bodies to the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes, and concluded that it leads to higher rates of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Loneliness literally kills us.

on the flip side, the desire for companionship can also lead people to seek connection and validation from unhealthy sources, such as political extremist groups, criminal organizations, and even drugs.

That’s why, now more than ever, it’s important to reach out. Shoot a text to your buddy from high school or call your friend from your sports team in college. Sometimes even a short conversation catching up is all you need to remind yourself how many friends you have, and how much they mean to you.

Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? wsheeline@liherald.com.

Framework by Tim Baker

Mount Sinai South Nassau is Improving Health Care on the South Shore

The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.

The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.

To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion