Wantagh Herald 11-06-2025

Blakeman wins re-election bid

By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com

Bruce Blakeman secured another term as Nassau County executive in Tuesday’s election, defeating Democrat Seth Koslow, according to unofficial results. In his campaign, Blakeman focused on public safety, fiscal restraint and quality-oflife issues.

“I want to thank the men and women of Nassau County for giving us all your trust,” Blakeman said.

John Ferretti, who was appointed Town of Hempstead supervisor in August, was elected to serve a full term, defeating Democratic challenger Joseph Scianablo. Ferretti, of Levittown, ran on a platform of cutting taxes, strengthening public safety and protecting the town’s suburban quality of life.

“Our position on the issues that face Hempstead residents, Nassau County residents — we’re on the right side of every one of them,” Ferretti told Herald reporters Tuesday night.

In another big-ticket Nassau County race, Anne Donnelly

top two seniors HERALD

County executive Bruce Blakeman was

second term on tuesday night, easily defeating his democratic challenger, Seth Koslow.

was elected to another term as district attorney, defeating Democratic challenger Nicole Aloise. Donnelly emphasized her record of prosecuting violent crime and protecting vulnerable residents.

County Comptroller Elaine Phillips won her re-election bid, defeating challenger Wayne Wink Jr., and County Clerk Maureen O’Connell held

onto her seat, defeating challenger Joylette Williams.

In the Nassau County Legislature, Republican Kayla Knight won her first term representing Legislative District 15, defeating Democrat Stephen Richard Hellman, And Michael Giangregorio retained his seat in District 12, defeating Democratic challenger Michael Gionesi.

ElEction RESUltS

High achievers are WHS’s

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

A strong work ethic and a commitment to academic excellence have paid huge dividends for Wantagh High School seniors Victoria Ferraro and Ethan Chen, who have been named the class of 2026’s valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.

Ferraro earned a weighted average of 108.428, and Chen, 108.119, 11 years after both began their academic journeys at Forest Lake Elementary School.

“I was so proud of myself, and that all my hard work and dedication paid off,” Ferraro said of the accomplishment.

I was so proud of myself, and that all my hard work and dedication paid

off.

well as the World Language Honor Society for Italian. Chen has taken 12 Advanced Placement courses, and serves as vice president of the Wantagh Animal Rights and Recycling Club. He is president of the Science National Honor Society, treasurer of both the national and math honor societies, and a member of Mathletes, Key Club and the World Language Honor Society for Italian. He is also a summer volunteer at the Wantagh Public Library.

VICtoRIA FERRARo

Wantagh High School Class of 2026 valedictorian

In addition to taking 14 Advanced Placement courses, Ferraro is a member of Mathletes and Future Health Professionals, and serves as president of both the National Honor Society and the Math Honor Society. She is also a member of the English, science and business honor societies, as

“I was very proud of how far I’ve come since freshman year to get here,” Chen said.

Paul Guzzone, the high school’s principal, said he was proud that both students will represent the best of 2026’s graduating class.

“They are just tremendous academic scholars, but even more importantly, tremendous people,” Guzzone said. “I know that they’re going to go on and do great things and make WantContinued on page 7

Last Hope’s auction aims high on Nov. 9

By DENIVIA RIVERA Intern

Last Hope Animal Rescue is hosting its annual auction on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, with an afternoon of live music, raffles, an open bar, and a buffet — all to support animals in need of homes.

It’s grown and expanded. There initially wasn’t even an adoption center. It’s come a very long way.

MEl ANIE lAzARus Head of auction committee

The Wantagh-based nonprofit rescues and rehabilitates abandoned dogs and cats across Long Island and beyond. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help Last Hope continue its work providing medical care, microchipping, vaccinations and adoption services for animals that might otherwise be euthanized.

Tickets are $80 in advance and $85 at the door, if space permits. The event runs from 2 to 6 p.m., and will include a live auction, silent auction and basket raffles featuring high-value prizes.

“We have Islanders box seat and Dime Club tickets, seven days and six nights at a waterfront condo in Indian Shores, Florida, a 65-inch smart television, tickets to Adventureland and much more,” said Melanie Lazarus, head of the auction committee. “It’s a little hard to list everything. There’s a lot of stuff.”

Lazarus said this is the second year the auction is being held at Mulcahy’s. Previously a smaller event, the team decided to go “bigger, better and more beneficial for the rescue” starting last year.

In 2024, the auction raised between $27,000 and $28,000, and Last Hope hopes to surpass that this year. The group currently has four event sponsors: The Victoria Van De Ven State Farm Agency and Wantagh Mazda as Top Dog Sponsors, and Pool Stars and Provi-

dent Bank as Blue Ribbon Sponsors.

Founded in 1981, Last Hope now rescues approximately 300 dogs and 500 cats annually. It also runs a robust trap-neuter-return program to help manage Long Island’s feral cat population.

“It’s grown and expanded. There initially wasn’t even an adoption center. It’s come a very long way,” Lazarus said.

Many of the animals come from local shelters or low-income areas in the South, including partnerships in Kentucky and Georgia.

“A lot of our animals come from low-income southern shelters,” Lazarus said. “We also take a lot of animals locally — whoever needs our help and thinks we’ll be able to help find a forever home.”

Tickets can be purchased at LastHopeAnimalRescue.org.

“There are so many unwanted, uncared for animals out there that are waiting for a wonderful home,” Lazarus said. “Getting them into a rescue, like ours, also guarantees they are going to get any medical care and vaccines that they need.”

A Day for Hailey fundraiser set for Nov. 22

By CHARlEs sHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Community members are invited to gather in support of 4-year-old Hailey Grace McCormack, a Seaford girl living with a rare genetic disorder, during a special fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 22, at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall.

The event, titled “A Day for Hailey,” begins at 1 p.m. and will feature live music, food, drinks, raffles and a live auction — all to benefit Hailey and her family. Tickets are $80 for adults ages 21 and over, $35 for attendees ages 6 to 20, and free for children 5 and under. Each ticket includes food, desserts, beverages, and for those of age, a top-shelf open bar.

I just want people to hear Hailey’s story and just have other people aware.

Hailey was diagnosed with AicardiGoutières Syndrome, or AGS, a rare genetic condition that affects the brain, spinal cord and immune system. AGS is a form of leukodystrophy, a group of disorders that damage the white matter of the brain. The disease causes the immune system to attack the body’s own tissues, leading to a range of developmental and neurological challenges.

According to Hailey’s mother, Jennifer McCormack, it took time to find a diagnosis. Because Hailey was so young and her condition so rare, doctors were not initially concerned, but Rosenberg noticed troubling signs.

JENNIfER MCCoRMACk Seaford resident

All proceeds from the event will go directly to Hailey’s family, with support from the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, a Wantagh-based nonprofit that helps children in need. Donations are tax-deductible through the foundation.

“She was regressing right in front of me,” McCormack said. “She had so many words, she had sentences, she was walking fine, and then slowly I started to see this regression from her.”

Despite the diagnosis, Hailey’s family describes her as a bright and determined child who continues to inspire everyone around her. Through their website, Hai-

ley’s Grace, her mother, Jennifer Rosenberg, shares the family’s journey — one marked by both challenges and hope.

The family hopes that sharing Hailey’s story will help spread awareness about AGS and encourage others facing rare conditions to find community and support.

“We are trying to raise funds that goes towards research, specifically research towards AGS,” McCormack said, “because even though there are some things that are helpful towards treating it, it doesn’t cure it.”

The fundraiser is intended not only to assist with Hailey’s ongoing care, but also to bring the community together in solidarity with families facing similar challenges.

“I just want people to hear Hailey’s story and just have other people aware,” she said. “I just want parents to know that if they feel that something isn’t right, then they’re probably right. Parents know best.”

“A Day for Hailey” is open to all ages, with the theme “party for a purpose.”

Tickets can be purchased at givebutter. com/adayforhailey

If you go …

What: A Day for Hailey fundraiser

When: Saturday, Nov. 22, at 1 p.m.

Where: Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh

Tickets: $80 for ages 21 and over; $35 for ages 6–20; free for ages 5 and under

Includes: Food, dessert, beverages, open bar, live music, raffles, and a live auction

Beneficiary: 100% of proceeds go directly to Hailey’s family, supported by the John Theissen Children’s Foundation

Includes: givebutter.com/adayforhailey

Planning For and Executing Inheritances

(Part One)

Planning for, and then executing, inheritances is often fraught with emotion. Most families choose to leave the inheritance “to my children in equal shares, per stirpes.” Per stirpes is Latin meaning “by the roots” so that if a child dies before the parent, their share goes to their children (if any) in equal shares. If there are no children, then the inheritance is disregarded and their share goes to their surviving siblings in equal shares.

What about gifts to grandchildren? Let’s say one child has five children and the other has two children -- seven grandchildren altogether. When a significant gift is given to grandchildren equally, it is not uncommon for the child with two children to say “well it was my brother’s choice to have five children, why do I have to pay for it?” Good estate planning also looks at inheritances from the heirs’ point of view as well. We are often asked whether inheritances should be discussed with children ahead of time. While each family has different dynamics, this can end up being the equivalent of giving children a veto power over what you are going

to do. For example, if you seek their opinion on an unequal division, you will create a problem for the family if you choose to disregard their input. A better way might be the use of the “soft probe”. Here, you suggest an idea that you have about an unequal division, and then gauge their reaction before making a decision.

For example, where one child is very much better off then another, you might say “You know, your sister Mary could really use our money a lot more...” The wealthy child will generally respond one of two ways. They will either say “Of course, I don’t need it, leave it all to her” and you are off the hook, or they will indicate that they consider anything less than equal shares would be unfair. In the latter case, if you still want to help Mary more, you may give her gifts during your lifetime and keep peace in the family by leaving inheritances equally. You may also pass some accounts outside the estate by naming Mary as beneficiary.

Giving thought to your “emotional legacy” may go a long way towards keeping peace in the family.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Merrick Rd., Rockville

News brief

Childcare center brings holiday fun

Creative Play Childcare Center is introducing itself to the Wantagh community with a festive Holiday Pictures event while preparing to open a new Montessori-based childcare facility on Merrick Road next summer.

The center, which currently operates in Valley Stream and Elmont, offers fullday care for infants through toddlers, along with after-hours options. Its new Wantagh location, expected to open in June 2026, will feature outdoor play areas and a brand-new building designed around the Montessori philosophy — an educational approach that emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and exploration at a child’s own pace.

To connect with local families ahead of the opening, Creative Play has transformed its Merrick Road space into a holiday photo studio with several festive backdrops, including one featuring Santa’s chair. Families can take their own pictures or attend special “Breakfast, Story

Time and Pictures with Santa” events on Nov. 15, Nov. 30, and Dec. 6.

Holiday picture sessions cost $50 per family, with a maximum of five people ($10 for each additional person). The breakfast event is $100 per family, also with a five-person limit and an additional $20 per extra person. Sessions run Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21.

“Wantagh is an amazing community with a lot of young families,” said Joey Borger of Creative Play. “In the neighborhood, there’s not many places available to the young homeowners and families that are there. Between the teachers and director, it’s just going to be an inviting space for young people.”

Tickets are available at Eventbrite. com. Creative Play’s Wantagh facility is located at 3309 Merrick Road, Wantagh. For more information, visit CreativePlayChildcareCenter.com.

— Charles Shaw

Seaford resident appointed HR director

Seaford resident Eileen Fredericks has been appointed director of human resources at the Variety Child Learning Center in Syosset, a nonprofit that provides educational and therapeutic programs for children with special needs.

Fredericks brings more than 30 years of experience in human resources, special education, and personnel development. She most recently served as assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel in the Carle Place Union Free School District, where she helped shape the district’s HR policies and compliance initiatives.

“What makes Eileen truly stand out is her extensive background in special education, combined with years of leadership experience in the public school sector and human resources,” said Janet Koch, CEO of Variety. “Her insight, empathy, and strategic perspective will be invaluable to our mission and our team.”

Fredericks began her career as a preschool special education teacher — the same setting she returns to at Variety. “Coming back to a preschool special education environment, where my career first began, is a true full circle moment for me,” she said. “Supporting a mission that centers around children and families feels deeply personal and professionally meaningful.”

A graduate of SUNY Buffalo and Queens College, Fredericks also holds a professional diploma in educational leadership from LIU Post and multiple certifications in elementary and special education, as well as school district administration.

Variety Child Learning Center, headquartered in Syosset, operates four preschool-based programs across Long Island, offering early intervention, preschool and universal pre-K, and other services for children up to age 8.

— Charles Shaw

guest column

Farewell, and on to the next chapter

Before all of this, I was a chemist.

Picture this: me in a lab coat and goggles, spending each day performing the same tasks — weighing samples, mixing chemicals — hoping I wouldn’t breathe in fumes or melt my face off. I envy people who can do routine work like that for decades, but it wasn’t exactly what I wanted to do with my life.

I loved the sciences, but in the back of my mind, I always wanted to be a writer. While I toiled away in the labs, I took night classes at Hofstra University to earn my master’s in journalism. I had done freelance reporting in my hometown years earlier, but being in the master’s program made me fully appreciate the art of storytelling. I learned how to find the right sources, take the right photos, and craft an article that draws readers in.

As I finished the graduate program, I transitioned into journalism by becoming the senior reporter for

the Wantagh and Seaford Heralds, a pivotal moment in my life that I will always be grateful for.

My first weeks at the Herald were, to put it mildly, chaotic. I had never set foot in either community before starting, and moving from a completely different career felt like rewiring my brain. I was overwhelmed but determined to push through and become the journalist I wanted to be.

After a couple of weeks, I began to learn more about Wantagh and Seaford. Reporting on schools, organizations, and local governments, I discovered a community full of people dedicated to giving back. From food pantries that ensure those in need are fed to Lions Clubs that step in wherever help is required, Wantagh and Seaford are full of individuals who genuinely want to make a difference.

Even the schools have shown incredible dedication, from students to teachers to administrators. Reporting on the Wantagh and Seaford school districts, I’ve seen passionate teachers helping students reach goals they never thought possible. I’ve spoken with students striving to make a difference, excelling academically to become doctors, or finding ways to help the less fortunate. Covering the schools reminded me that we all grew up with dreams as kids, and we shouldn’t abandon them.

My time at the Herald has been a wild, fulfilling ride. Switching from one career to a completely different one was daunting. When I started, I feared I would never belong. Thankfully, I worked with so many people who refused to let me drown. I now call them friends. There are three colleagues I espe-

cially want to thank. My managing editor, Jeffrey Bessen, and copy editor, Jim Harmon, have helped me grow immensely as a reporter. Jeff, I’ll miss your jokes while picking your brain about being a good journalist. Jim, I’ve learned so much from you about crafting a better story and will miss working alongside you during Monday newspaper production. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank Deputy Managing Editor Jordan Vallone. From day one, she was someone I could rely on for guidance and helped me settle into the role. Since then, she has become a phenomenal newsroom leader, and I can’t imagine a better person to have in the reporting trenches with me.

My time at the Herald has made me a confident reporter, and I’m excited to begin the next chapter of my life. I want to thank the Herald and the people of Wantagh and Seaford for helping me grow and showing me that I can reach beyond the limits I once thought I had.

HERALD SPORTS

Depth carries MacArthur to county title

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The MacArthur girls’ cross country team was kept in suspense before finding it had captured the program’s first county title since 2008.

The Generals entered the awards ceremony following the Nassau Class I championship meet at LIU Post last Saturday knowing they were in second place at the 2.44 mile mark of the 3.1 mile 5K race unaware of where they stood after the finish line.

The Generals learned they tied Massapequa with 79 points for first place based on MacArthur’s top five runners and were one point ahead of 13-time county champion Syosset. The tiebreaker was decided by both teams’ sixth place finisher and MacArthur junior Leah Fortunato proved to be the decider in the historic title with a 30th place to edge out Massapequa’s next top placement of 44th.

“They pulled up the girls on both teams to the front and then they announced how the tiebreaker wins, and that Massapequa was the runner up team and then they announced that Leah Fortunato had beaten Massapequa sixth runner to win it for us,” said first year MacArthur coach Madison Seniuk. “We only ended up having eight girls finish the race when you could have had up to 10 so we had a very small team compared to the other teams that we

were competing against and every person that ran really played a role.”

MacArthur positioned itself for Fortunato’s tiebreaker with its top five runners led by junior Gemma Budek, who placed second overall with a time of 18:45:10. The two-time captain improved on her fourth place finish at last year’s county championship.

Freshman Sinead Cromie shined with a 13th place finish culminating in a season where the first-year varsity runner made big strides.

“She started the season just running the novice race which is about a mile, mile and half long and it took a lot out of her to come in and actually run the entire 3.1 mile race,” said Seniuk of Cromie. “Over the last few weeks she has really proven herself to the team.”

The Generals also got strong performances from freshmen runners Grace O’Doherty (19th place finish) and Ava Leek (20th place).

Senior Caitlin Kilian rounded out the top five for MacArthur with a 25th place finish. The versatile Killian, who is also starting point guard on the basketball team, has proved to be a veteran leader.

“She really helps all the younger classmen make sure they’re all prepared mentally and physically, “ said Seniuk of Killian. “She took the freshmen under her wing and showed them how to compete.”

High achievers reflect on academic journeys

agh High School proud.”

Ferraro singled out math as her favorite subject, and said she wants to continue studying it after graduation.

“I enjoy it so much because there’s so many different ways that you can obtain such an answer,” she said, “but there’s still only one correct answer.”

Chen said he also enjoys math for its problem-solving aspect, adding that it’s “less about memorization and more about working through a problem.”

“Sometimes one problem will take you forever to just figure out how to do,” he said. “That’s what really drew me toward it.”

He expressed hopes of studying biomedical engineering in college and eventually becoming a doctor, crediting AP physics with steering him toward the engineering path.

Outside the classroom, Ferraro is a cheerleader, coaches for the Wantagh Youth Cheerleading Association’s Wantagh Arrows, serves as a volunteer tutor through the School House SAT Boot Camp program, and works as a camp counselor in Oyster Bay.

Among her accolades, Ferraro has won the Junior Award, the Harvard Book Award and the Nassau County Comptroller’s Math, Accounting and Finance Award. She is a National Merit Commended Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and has earned the AP

Capstone Diploma. She is also working toward her Seal of Biliteracy in Italian. She credited Wantagh High with giving her numerous opportunities and guidance, allowing her to excel in her

studies. She added that her teachers have supported her success, offering assistance and always being available for extra help.

“I feel like my teachers have really

helped me out,” she said, “and I just have been given a lot of opportunities for future success and to build my way up.”

Chen is a National Merit semifinalist, a Rensselaer Medal recipient and an AP Scholar with Distinction. He competes in cross-country, winter track and spring track, and said the school has provided him with numerous opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities.

“I have the freedom to explore whatever my passions are,” he said.

Ferraro credited her success to a strong work ethic and a willingness to put in the necessary time. For his part, Chen also cited a strong work ethic and the ability to stay organized as key factors in his achievements.

After graduation, Ferraro said, she will miss Wantagh, while Chen added that he would miss being part of a tightknit community.

Ferraro expressed hopes of maintaining high grades, exploring new activities, and staying involved in everything she’s currently doing.

Chen said he aims to finish strong academically, and advised students to challenge themselves and stay organized so they don’t fall behind.

“Take advantage of all the opportunities and challenge yourself,” Ferraro echoed, “because the outcome could really be worth it.”

Thank You, Veterans

This Veterans Day, we honor all who have served— and proudly recognize 55 of

own employees at Mount Sinai South Nassau who are Veterans and our Veterans Committee.

L.I. Association hosts WNBA’s Caitlin Clark

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

Caitlin Clark, the star point guard for the Indiana Fever, became the alltime leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball, was selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA draft, was the league’s 2024 Rookie of the Year and has drawn thousands of new fans to women’s basketball.

On Oct. 29, hundreds of Long Island business leaders and basketball fans attended the Long Island Association’s annual fall luncheon to see Clark speak with LIA President and CEO Matt Cohen.

The LIA is nonprofit association working to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality. The luncheon usually highlights political or business leaders, but this year Clark, 23, spoke about her career and nonprofit work. It was her first visit to Long Island, but she is no stranger to New York, having made a number of TV appearances and played the 2024 WNBA champion New York Liberty at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“Honestly New York is one of my favorite places to come and play,” she said. “The crowd they have is really fun, their fan base is absolutely incredible and they’ve got a great team.”

As a junior at the University of Iowa, Clark became known for “the Caitlin Clark effect” — a dramatic increase in

popularity and revenue for women’s basketball that continued when she turned pro.

“I just love basketball,” she said. “I love the grind of getting better. No matter what we achieved or what I achieved personally, I always wanted to get back in the gym and get better at it.”

She emphasized the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive

Here’s The SCOOP!

people who care about both your success and your well-being. “I’ve been very fortunate over the course of my career to be surrounded by a lot of really great teammates, coaches and a great support system that’s allowed me to do a lot of cool things,” she said. Clark has sponsorships from Gatorade and Nike, and collaborates with Stanley. Her college marketing degree,

she said, has helped her navigate business decisions. “The biggest thing for me is working with brands that align with who I am,” she said. “Everything has my fingerprints on it. Everything we put out there I’m super proud of.” Clark touched on her work with the Caitlin Clark Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth empowerment through education, nutrition and sports. “It’s honestly my favorite part of what I get to do,” she said. The foundation organizes a large backpack giveaway, supports Central Iowa’s Boys and Girls club, and works to install new basketball courts in Des Moines and Indianapolis.

“Basketball was never my end-all beall,” Clark said. “Its still that way for me. It’s just what I love to do. Its crazy to think that this is my job.”

She did not comment on negotiations between the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association on a new collective bargaining agreement after players opted out of the agreement. It was set to expire on Oct. 31, but both sides agreed to a 30-day extension for talks to continue. Players are concerned about pay, benefits and overall conditions in the league as the sport continues to grow.

For her part, Clark hopes to continue her career in Indianapolis and eventually help the Fever win a WNBA championship.

Exploring careers at MetLife Stadium

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Students from Seaford High School’s business programs got a firsthand look at the world of sports management during a trip to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

On Sept. 30, the students attended the New York Jets’ Sports Business Day, an educational program held several times a year that invites high school groups to the stadium to learn how the organization operates behind the scenes.

Throughout the day, students heard from members of the Jets’ sales and mar keting departments, who spoke about their career paths, daily responsibilities, and the various aspects of running a pro fessional sports franchise — including sponsorship, advertising, data analytics and finance. They also toured the locker room and turf field, gaining insight into how business drives the game-day experi ence.

“We got to see a lot of rooms that I would never actually see going around,” senior Braedan Mundy said, “And we got pretty low, especially at the field level, where I have never actually been to.”

Seaford High School business educa tion teacher Laura Heller said the experi ence gave students valuable insight into real-world careers. She noted that hearing directly from professionals about their jobs, career paths and experiences was an important opportunity for students to connect classroom learning to potential future careers.

business. He noted that the speakers also discussed how every role, from the office to the field, contributes to the success of the entire team.

“What I most took away from it was, to run a business, everyone needs to do their part to kind of make the whole thing work,” Hennessy said.

Seaford High School students gained firsthand insight into

during a trip to MetLife Stadium, learning from professionals about career

responsibilities, and the skills needed to succeed.

“It’s important for the kids to understand the connections and working together and having positive relationships with other people,” Heller said. “Whether it’s big or small, it’s really important.”

Heller said networking was a major theme emphasized by the business speakers. Students learned that building connections is a key component of any career, whether in sports, finance, or other industries.

“You always have to make connections,” senior Olivia Anzelone said, “because one person can help you get from being an intern to being the manager of a part of the finance department of data analytics.”

Senior Mia Leggio said she enjoyed the experience because it offered multiple perspectives on careers like data analysis and finance, and showed the steps needed to pursue those paths. Anzelone said she noticed that some of the career paths shared by the speakers were similar to her own.

“The people that talked to us, they majored in sports management and that’s something I’m thinking about,” Anzelone said. “So hearing what you could do with it was very inspiring.”

Senior Brian Hennessy said the speakers discussed how competitive the field can be and how many people apply for certain positions, giving students a realistic view of pursuing careers in sports and

HERALD neighbors

Wantagh Chamber brings fall fun downtown

The Wantagh Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 19, drawing families and neighbors to Railroad Avenue and Grove Street for a day of seasonal fun.

Originally scheduled for Oct. 12, the event was postponed a week due to poor weather. The delay didn’t dampen the community’s spirit — visitors enjoyed live music, food from local ven-

dors, games and activities for children, and plenty of opportunities to shop from small businesses.

The fall celebration has become a cherished tradition in Wantagh, offering residents a chance to come together and enjoy the heart of the downtown area as the leaves begin to turn.

— Charles Shaw

Focusing on

Get Ready for the Holidays: Protect Yourself With Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines

As you get ready for the holidays, remember this: While vaccine recommendations may be debated these days, one fact remains unchanged—the flu and COVID-19 can still be deadly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the flu caused nearly 130,000 deaths and the hospitalization of about 1 million people between October 2024 and May 2025. Additionally, the CDC estimates that COVID-19 has been responsible for approximately 540,000 hospitalizations and up to 63,000 deaths since October 2024.

“You should always consult your physician for individual medical advice. The respiratory virus season is upon us, and if you’re eligible and haven’t been vaccinated for COVID-19 and flu, now is a good time to get immunized,” advised Aaron E. Glatt, MD, Chair of the Department of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau.

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Vaxmobile is offering a free COVID-19 and flu vaccine program. For the 2025–2026 flu season, the CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and New York State Department of Health recommend trivalent flu vaccines containing strains for influenza A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and an influenza B/Victoria lineage virus. The A(H3N2) component was updated from the previous season. It is recommended that everyone six months and older receive a flu vaccine annually to prevent illness and complications.

For those 65 and older, an enhanced version of the flu vaccine is recommended.

In September, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed

MountSinaiSouthNassau’sCommunityEducationandVaxmobileteamare providingfluandCOVIDvaccinesinacommunitynearyou.Checkthe hospital’sFacebookpage(www.facebook.com/mountsinaisouthnassau)for dates and locations.

an executive order (which has been extended) declaring an emergency that overrides recent federal actions restricting vaccine access. The order ensures that all New Yorkers can receive the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine without a prescription.

The New York State Department of Health recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children aged six months to 23 months, adults 65 years or older, and people at high risk for severe outcomes, such as pregnant women, lactating women, and the immunocompromised. It is also recommended that children and teens ages 2-18 years old get the vaccine if they are at high risk, live in a long-term care facility, have never been immunized with

a COVID-19 vaccine, or live with people who are at high risk for severe COVID-19. It is also recommended for adults ages 19-64 who have elevated risk factors for severe COVID-19, those at the highest risk of exposure, and those who live with others at the highest risk.

“Individuals who are especially vulnerable and have not recently had COVID-19 and/or received the 2024 COVID-19 vaccine should get the new vaccine for enhanced protection,” said Dr. Glatt.

The CDC says it is safe to get the COVID-19 and flu vaccines simultaneously, during your visit to the doctor or pharmacy. Getting the vaccines is as simple as calling your doctor, visiting your local drugstore, or scheduling an appointment with Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Vaxmobile.

A common reaction after getting the flu and/or COVID-19 vaccine is a sore and tender shoulder, which is caused by the needle hitting the deltoid muscle and/or your body’s natural response to the vaccine. This usually goes away in a short while and doesn’t represent a long-term risk.

To schedule an appointment to get a flu or COVID-19 vaccine or both, go to www.southnassau.org/sn/vaxmobile; for more information, call Community Education at (516) 377-5333.

One Healthy Way Oceanside, NY 11572 • 877-SOUTH-NASSAU (877-768-8462) • www.mountsinai.org/southnassau

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

mountsinai.org/southnassau

Holiday stress?

It doesn’t have to get you down this time around

‘Tis the season to experience joy, wonder, gratitude, togetherness, and for many massive amounts of holiday stress. Whether it’s feeling pressure to pull off a picture-perfect Thanksgiving dinner or being overwhelmed by the constant whirlwind of social commitments and to-dos in the days leading up to holidays and New Year’s, holiday stress can often get in the way of what’s supposed to be the “most wonderful time of the year.”

The holidays often brings unwelcome guests stress and depression. And it’s no wonder. It’s a period that often present a dizzying array of demands cooking meals, shopping, baking, cleaning and entertaining. If the holidays sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed and out of control, you’re not alone. The holiday season is fraught with stress for many, whose holidays never quite seemed to be a picture-perfect Currier & Ives scenario.

A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89 percent of U.S. adults feel stressed during the holiday season, with 41 percent reporting higher stress levels compared to other times of the year. This can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. The reasons given include lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and

family gatherings.

If the Grinch has stolen your spirit and good intentions, take steps to reclaim your ho-ho-ho and stay happy and healthy.

Keep up healthy habits

Make a pact with yourself during the holidays. For example, decide that you’ll move more and do something active every day over the next three weeks. Take it a step further, and pledge to start the day with a healthy breakfast, limit the sweets and get at least seven hours of sleep each night. If you don’t completely give up your healthy habits, you won’t feel like you have to start over once the holidays are over.

Beware of seasonal sweets

The holidays often dish up extra helpings of less-than-healthy treats. Try preparing healthy snacks that are ready to eat when the urge to snack strikes. If you’re hosting a holiday party, challenge yourself to make delicious and healthier options.

Stay active

Instead of beating yourself up about missing a workout, sprinkle some healthy activities into your daily routine. For example, if the weather isn’t too frightful and you’re working from home, hope on your

✓ Personalized Solutions: No one-size-fits-all here – only customized solutions that work for you.

✓ Trusted Expertise: We are your go-to partners for hearing health, using the latest in hearing technology and care.

✓ Ongoing Support: Hearing needs can change, and we are with you every step of the way on your hearing journey.

bike during a lunch break. If dinner is going to be a feast, opt for a light lunch, then take a vigorous walk.

And keep the family moving. When the kids are home from school, squeeze in some active chores and trips to the park.

But not too active

Give yourself the gift of peace. If you need some down time to recharge, declare a “me-treat” and do something that relaxes you. Try yoga, meditation or spending time in nature.

Be realistic

The holidays don’t have to be perfect or as we remember them from childhood.

As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. For example, if your adult children or other relatives can’t come to your home, find new ways to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails or videos. Or meet virtually. Even though your holiday plans may still be different than in years past, you can still hold onto what matters most enjoying family and loved ones.

HEALTH MEMO

Health impacts of untreated hearing loss

Hearing loss is a progressive degenerative disorder that significantly compromises the neural integrity of the auditory system, and the brain. As a result, the most common symptoms of hearing loss that result from this neural dysfunction are:

√ Difficulty following a conversation in background noise

√ Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in your ears)

√ Hearing people speak but not understanding everything they say (i.e. a loss of clarity)

Consider how untreated hearing loss affects everyone involved.

Aging, social Isolation and loneliness: Hearing loss is experienced by 50% of individuals 60-70; 66% of individuals 70-80; and nearly 80% of individuals over 80.

Falls: Untreated hearing loss increases the risk of falling by 140%.

Cardiovascular disease: Hearing loss is 54% more common in those who have cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes: Hearing loss is two times as common in people with diabetes.

Cognitive decline and dementia: Untreated hearing loss increases your risk of dementia by 200500%.

In the past decade, science has helped clinicians and their patients understand the connections of hearing loss to overall health care. We now understand that diabetes can affect hearing, as well as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. We also know that nutrition and diet can impact hearing.

Perhaps the most alarming statistic is that hearing loss can increase the risk of developing cognitive decline, memory loss and dementia by as much as 200-500%. This study, led by Dr. Frank Lin at Johns Hopkins Medical Center, has highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy hearing to maintain a healthy brain.

If you are noticing any of the symptoms of hearing loss, or if your family is encouraging you to seek assistance with your hearing, then it is time to take your first step to have a hearing test and learn about treatment options.

Freaky 5K brings spooky fun and Halloween spirit

Runners and walkers filled Wantagh streets for the John Theissen Children’s Foundation’s annual Freaky 5K on Oct. 26.

The event, which started and ended in the Town of Hempstead parking lot on Wantagh Avenue, blended fitness with festive fun as participants dressed in Halloween costumes ranging from superheroes to spooky creatures. Families joined in the fun run before the main 5K, with many competing for costume prizes in different age groups. Medals were awarded to top finishers in several divisions, including masters and wheelchair participants.

Hosted by foundation founder John Theissen, the race has become a fall tradition in Wantagh. Proceeds help support the foundation’s mission of assisting sick and underprivileged children across Long Island.

Last year, the foundation celebrated the grand opening of its new Family Fun Center on Wantagh Avenue, which offers

free parties and entertainment for children facing illness or financial hardship. The facility includes an arcade, arts and crafts area, movie theater, and a “wish room” filled with donated toys for kids to take home.

Theissen, a Wantagh native, founded the organization in 1992 after recovering from a brain tumor as a teenager. Inspired by a young hospital patient’s kindness, he began collecting toys for children in need — and has since distributed more than a million gifts to hospitals and child care facilities.

Participants at this year’s Freaky 5K received commemorative shirts and enjoyed refreshments after crossing the finish line. Free race photos were made available online through Long Island Running Photos.

For more information about the foundation or upcoming events, visit jtcf.org.

— Charles Shaw

HERALD

ATTENTION STUDENTS: THE HERALD IS HOLDING A CONTEST TO DESIGN HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER

THE WINNING DESIGNS WILL BE PRINTED AS HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP IN 12/4/25 & 12/11/25 ISSUES OF YOUR HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

CONTEST RULES:

Who can enter: There will be 2 categories:

Students in grades k-5. Students in 6-12

One entry per student

Deadline: Entries must be received by 5 p.m.

Friday, November 14, 2025

Requirements: All entries should have the student’s name, age, address, telephone number, email, grade and school printed on the back. Design can be reflective of all religious holidays. Entries will not be returned.

Mail or hand-deliver to:

Wrapping Paper Contest

Herald Community Newspapers

2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530 OR Scan and email to:

(No Photos of Artwork Will Be Accepted).

Winners will be notified by email or phone by November 21

to start the Freaky 5k.

Creative Tips

• Must use 8 1/2 x 11” unlined paper, copy paper or construction paper.

• Be creative & original.

• Use bright colors.

• Fill the entire page.

Billy Joel exhibit closes after two-year run

‘A Piano Man’s Journey,’ at L.I. Music and Entertainment HOF, ends

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

A special presentation at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on Oct. 25 marked the closing of the Billy Joel exhibit and highlighted the important role that collectors played in bringing it to life.

Among those sharing their stories were collectors Paul Fierro and Eric Fellen, who contributed memorabilia and offered items for door prizes and a silent auction to support the museum.

“I’m excited to be here and talk about our experiences throughout the years collecting,” Fierro said, “but when people ask what’s the best, I always say the best is the people that I’ve met along the way, the friends I’ve made over the past 50 years doing this.”

After their presentation, Fellen and Fierro passed around pieces from their collections to a room full of devoted fans, and answered questions.

“Billy Joel, My Life: A Piano Man’s Journey” ran for nearly two years, drawing many repeat visitors — including Lisa and Donnie Wallace, of Massapequa Park. “Billy Joel has been my all-time favorite for 50 years now,” Lisa said. “I saw him 22 times during his residency and probably 30 times overall.”

O’Callaghan, who described its closing as emotional. “It was an exhibition I was very proud of,” O’Callaghan said. “My relationship dealing with Billy Joel I will never forget; it was a wonderful experience.”

O’Callaghan is now preparing something new for the hall — this time stepping away from music and into television. His next project, scheduled to open Nov. 28, celebrates 30 years of the sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Titled “Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years,” the exhibit will include the 70-foot-wide set built for the show’s upcoming anniversary special on CBS. This marks the first time the set will be on public display.

Melissa Heche, an audiologist who has performed with Richie Cannata, attended with friends, and said that Joel’s music was the “heartbeat” of their childhoods. “He became a role model too, pulling us into all different kinds of music,” Heche recalled.

group come as far away as England, Australia and Chile.”

Regina DeMarco, of Woodbury, attended with friends she met on a Billy Joel Facebook fan page. “I’ve made a lot of friends through Billy Joel,” DeMarco said. “We’re a tight group and we love Billy’s music. Some of the people in our

JoAnn Laverdure traveled from New Hampshire for the final days of the exhibit. “I was planning on coming at the beginning of the month because I knew that it was closing, and then I saw the post for the 2 p.m. presentation and just changed my plans,” she said. “I just adore him, and I think the exhibit is marvelous.”

The exhibit was designed by Kevin

“I couldn’t be more excited about this new exhibit,” O’Callaghan said. “The fact that we’re taking television history, the actual set from ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ — the actual set that we looked at many times on TV, and we have it here for people to walk on and enjoy — it’s an immersive experience. It’s a wonderful exhibition, and a wonderful journey back to a better time, when we all enjoyed watching real family comedy.”

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is at 97 Main St. in Stony Brook. For more details, go to limusichalloffame.org.

STEPPING OUT

Decades of holiday joy

Sacred Heart Academy welcomes the season with ‘The Nutcracker’

By Abbey Salvemini

As we prepare for the festive season ahead, one cherished tradition is already spreading holiday cheer: Sacred Heart Academy’s beloved production of “The Nutcracker.” Now in its 35th year, the all-girls, student-run performance returns to delight audiences with its timeless magic, graceful choreography and heartfelt community spirit.

Proudly recognized as the first “Nutcracker” to take the stage on Long Island this year — two weeks before Thanksgiving — Sacred Heart’s production is more than a performance; it’s a celebration of artistry and empowerment. Every element — from choreography to marketing to stage management — is handled by students, creating an experience that’s as much about leadership as it is about ballet. The young creative team is guided by the steady hand of Rockville Centre’s Annie Melia, a 2008 alumna, now in her third year as director of the production. Many alumnae have gone on to shine as Rockettes, Juilliard-trained dancers and educators, proving that the spirit of the beloved holiday classic extends far beyond the stage.

“As the leader of the production, I’ve learned that creating a supportive and organized environment helps everyone perform their best,” says Sienna Squadrito, a senior from Atlantic Beach who serves as the production co-president, choreographed the Waltz of the Flowers. “I tried to pull choreography that reflected the whole theme of the show.”

Her goal is that audiences sense the passion and countless hours each dancer has put in to make the movements shine.

Oceanside senior Angelina Sabatino, vice president, who choreographed several scenes, takes on the role of the dazzling Dew Drop Fairy. She relates that the energy of an all-girls cast creates an atmosphere of empowerment and camaraderie.

“Being a part of ‘Nutcracker’ has such a positive energy and allows us to grow as dancers and leaders,” she says.

Stepping into the role of the Dew Drop Fairy has been both exhilarating and deeply meaningful; the highlight for her.

“Dewdrop is one of my favorite roles because of how pretty the scene is. My favorite part is the music and the choreography, it’s so uplifting. I am so excited to perform this role because of how magical it feels and how it puts you in the holiday spirit. Bringing the

• Nov. 14, 7 p.m.; Nov. 15-16, 2 p.m.

• Pre-sale tickets are $15 each through Nov. 13; $20 day of performance, subject to availability.

• Tickets available at sacredheartacademyli.org/ TheNutcracker2025Tickets

• Sister Virginia Crowley Theatre, 47 Cathedral Ave., Hempstead

Dew Drop Fairy to life in front of an audience reminds me why I love to dance and how special it is to share that joy with the audience.”

As the Sugar Plum Fairy, Samantha Koenig, of Garden City, carries one of the ballet’s most iconic roles — a part she has made entirely her own.

“Instead of focusing on being perfect, I try to bring warmth and confidence to the character,” she says.

Besides performing, she choreographed Waltz of the Snowflakes and serves as the show’s Finale Coordinator.

“As a senior, it means a lot to set an example for the younger dancers,” she adds.

Koenig reflects that what she’ll hold closest to her heart about her involvement with the show is the deep sense of family and the cherished tradition it represents.

“Everyone supports each other, and it’s so special to be a part of a tradition that brings so many people together,” she notes.

For senior Hailey Friere, of Massapequa, who plays the Lead Messenger and Fritz, this year’s performance marks her fourth year with the show.

“During my freshman year, I thought that participating in ‘The Nutcracker’ was just another after-school activity. Now, I see it more as a part of my life that fulfills the holiday season.”

Friere’s favorite aspect of the production is building friendships across grade levels and sharing the joy of the Christmas season throughout the school.

“Actually, I met one of my best friends through ‘The Nutcracker,’ and she’s like a sister to me,” Friere shares. “Now, I’m Fritz and she’s Clara, so she’s like a real sister to me!”

As the curtain rises this holiday season, Sacred Heart Academy’s “The Nutcracker” reminds local audiences that its magic goes far beyond the stage. In sharing their passion, students invite everyone to experience the joy that has made this beloved production a cherished holiday highlight at the school for 35 years — and counting.

Ted Nash Sextet

Ted Nash’s Big Band brings the Grammy Award-winning “Presidential Suite” to the Tilles Center stage. This fascinating program pairs historic speeches by figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill, and others with bold, jazz-driven orchestrations. With Nash’s thoughtful direction and expressive playing, the hard swinging band offers a powerful and resonant performance that bridges history, music and the spirit of swing. Each movement is tied to a different speech by world leaders, giving the words new resonance through music. Presidential Suite is considered Nash’s most significant work, rich with social and political awareness. A longtime member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Nash has spent 25 years blending intellect, emotion and bold creativity through his compositions. Acclaimed as one of the most innovative voices in modern jazz, he’s known for his boundless creativity as an arranger and performer.

Sunday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100

North Mississippi Allstars

Dynamic blues-rock band North Mississippi Allstars unearths the soul of the Mississippi hill country with every riff and beat. Led by brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson, their electrifying performances fuse tradition with modern energy and can turn any venue into a juke joint. As legend has it, the brothers started the band in 1996 as a loose collective of like-minded secondgeneration musicians who shared a local repertoire and regional style. Over the years, the lineup shifted by design, and each subsequent record offered up a different combination of collaborators. Get on your dancing shoes and hear for yourself the bold, raucous and reinvented tribute to the musicians’ roots and evolution.

Sunday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m. $48.50. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or by calling (516) 767-6444.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” which surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms, is in its final days. Framing this topic between the 19th century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

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

NOV

8

‘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 and and a special appearance by Steve Mitchell as Elvis. 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. Refreshments provided; guests can bring in your own food (just no pork or shellfish).

• 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

Gaelic Storm

Garden City

• Time: Opening drop-in programs start at 1 p.m.

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

NOV

20

Paumanacke Garden Club meets

The Paumanacke Garden Club meets at the Wantagh Public Library. With a demonstration of autumn centerpieces to decorate the Thanksgiving table, with floral arrangements raffled off. Garden enthusiasts and newcomers alike are welcome to attend.

• Where: 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 6–7:30 p.m.

• Contact: rlkjb@optonline.net or call (516) 781-5019

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create with kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. The band attributes their continued success to their fanatic audience, and it’s a well-diversified crowd for sure — attracting fans of every genre with their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. They are as loyal to their fans as the fans are to them, as frontman Patrick Murphy states, “The fans are the ones that have given us this life. We’re here for them.” Gaelic Storm takes a true blue-collar, hard-nose approach to touring, consistently traveling the U..S and internationally forging a unique path in the Celtic music world. This dedication to their live show dates all the way back to the mid-1990s, when Gaelic Storm kicked off its’ career as a pub band in Santa Monica, Calif. Those performances ultimately led to their discovery that found the band appearing in the blockbuster film “Titanic” (where they performed “Irish Party in Third Class”). This laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually find them topping the Billboard World Chart six times, making appearances at mainstream music festivals, and regularly headlining the largest Irish Festivals across the country, all while gaining a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band whose songs mix Celtic traditions with something uniquely creative. $68, $58, $48.

project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Noon-3 p.m.

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

Last Hope Animal Rescue Annual Auction

Join Last Hope Animal Rescue for its annual “Raise Your Paws,” at Mulcahy’s/With a buffet, open bar, and live music, with proceeds supporting Last Hope’s animal rescue efforts. $80 in advance and $85 at the door, if space is available.

• Where: 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 2-6 p.m.

• Contact: lasthopeanimalrescue. org

Art Talk

Join Poster Historian and Gallerist

Ted Bahr for” In a Furious Moment

- The History and Development of the Psychedelic Rock Poster.”

The psychedelic rock poster had a brief but colorful life from 1966

to 1970. Originating out of San Francisco in a utopian period where it was thought that peace and love could change the world, these posters advertised the rock “dance concerts” and reflected the very psychedelic and idealistic world around them. Breaking all the rules of graphic design and advertising, the psychedelic rock posters sought to be as illegible as possible, to force competing colors together to create a vibratory effect, and appropriated images from all eras of history, Seating is limited. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

NOV

12

Bingo at Temple B’Nai

Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.

• Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15-10 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 221-2370

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: landmarkonmainstreet. org or (516) 767-6444

Game time

NOV

13

Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.

• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Thursdays, noon-4 p.m.

• Contact: mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or (516) 785-2445

NOV

15

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a hightech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” With special opening weekend activities.

• Where: Museum Row,

NOV

29

Winter Wonderland

Kick off the holiday season at Wantagh’s Winter Wonderland. Sponsored by Realty Advisors, enjoy holiday shopping, food, entertainment, and lightings at the Wantagh Preservation Society.

• Where: 1700 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 12:30-5 p.m.

• Contact: WantaghChamber. wildapricot.org

Vendors

DEC

7

Wanted for Holiday Shopping Day

Congregation Beth Tikvah Sisterhood & Men’s Club seeks vendors for its Holiday Shopping Day. Vendor opportunities available at reasonable rates for selling apparel, jewelry, housewares, collectibles, gifts, toys, seasonal items, crafts, and more.

• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Contact: For information and registration, email CBTWantaghHolidayShop@ gmail.com

Having an event?

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

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

MID-ISLAND MORTGAGE CORP.

Plaintiff, Against KERYN L. HING AVERY

A/K/A KERYN L. HINGAVERY A/K/A KERYN

HING AVERY A/K/A

KERYN HING A/K/A

KERYN AVERY A/K/A

KERYN HING-AVERY; GREGORY AVERY

A/K/A GREGORY L.

AVERY; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/02/2024, 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 11/18/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 15 Hamlet Road, Levittown, New York 11756, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Levittown, near Hicksville, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Section 46 Block 387 Lot 39

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $345,000.93 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 618413/2022

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Jonathan Christian Juliano, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 10/2/2025 File Number: 22-301437

CA 156290

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST,

Plaintiff AGAINST ILEANE D. BEILER INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF GERALD D. BEILER 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; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 28, 2025, 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 November 17, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 17 Wilson Lane, Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, in the Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County and State of New York, Section 49 Block 175 and Lot 26. Approximate amount of judgment $477,899.87 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #619193/2023.

Leonard B. Symons, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-003455 87372 156261

LEGAL NOTICE WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT SALE OF SURPLUS EQUIPMENT

One (1) KME 2002 Tower Ladder Truck

WHEREAS, the WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT Board of Fire Commissioners is vested with the authority to sell property or equipment owned by the District that it determines is no longer necessary for the uses and purposes of the District pursuant to Section 176 subdivision 23 of the Municipal Law; and WHEREAS, the Board of Fire Commissioners has determined that a District-owned 2002 KME tower ladder truck is no longer necessary for its uses and purposes; and WHEREAS, the Board has determined to sell said 2002 KME Tower

Ladder, subject to a mandatory referendum, in accordance with the authority vested in the Board of Fire Commissioners under Section 176 subdivision 23 of the Town Law. Voting on the mandatory referendum will take place on Tuesday, December 9th 2025 between 2:00pm and 9:00pm at the following polling places:

Station No. 1 - 3470 Park Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 2 - 844

Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, New York

Station No. 4 - 1191

Alken Avenue, Seaford, New York

Station No. 5 - 2895

Merrick Road, Wantagh, New York BE IT RESOLVED , pursuant to the authority vested in the Board of Fire Commissioners under Section 176 subdivision 23 of the Town Law, the WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT shall sell such Pierce 85’ 2003 Rig the actual value of which shall be determined by market forces.

The approval of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote and roll-call vote, it was voted on and approved unanimously. By order of the Board of Fire Commissioners Brendan J. Narell Superintendent AVISO LEGAL DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH

VENTA DE EQUIPOS

EXCEDENTES

Un (1) camión escalera de torre KME 2002 CONSIDERANDO QUE, la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos del Distrito de Bomberos de WANTAGH está investida con la autoridad para vender propiedad o equipo propiedad del Distrito que determine que ya no es necesario para los usos y propósitos del Distrito de conformidad con la Sección 176 subdivisión 23 de la Ley Municipal; y CONSIDERANDO QUE, la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos ha determinado que un camión escalera de torre KME 2002 propiedad del Distrito ya no es necesario para sus usos y propósitos; y CONSIDERANDO QUE, la Junta ha determinado vender dicha Escalera de Torre

KME 2002, sujeta a un referéndum obligatorio, de acuerdo con la autoridad conferida a la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos bajo la Sección 176 subdivisión 23 de la Ley de la Ciudad.

La votación del referéndum obligatorio se llevará a cabo el martes 9 de diciembre de 2025 entre las 14:00 y las 21:00 horas en los siguientes lugares de votación:

Estación No. 1 - 3470

Park Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 2 - 844

Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York

Estación No. 4 - 1191

Alken Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York

Estación No. 5 - 2895

Merrick Road, Wantagh, Nueva York

RESUÉLVASE , de conformidad con la autoridad conferida a la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos bajo la Sección 176 subdivisión 23 de la Ley de la Ciudad, el DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH venderá dicha plataforma Pierce 85’ 2003 cuyo valor real será determinado por las fuerzas del mercado.

La aprobación de la anterior resolución fue debidamente sometida a votación nominal, la cual fue votada y aprobada por unanimidad.

Por orden de la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos

Brendan J. Narell Superintendente 156630

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE OF ELECTION

Wantagh Fire District in the Town of Hempstead, New York

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Fire Commissioners, a special election of the qualified voters of the Wantagh Fire District in the town of Hempstead, County of Nassau), State of New York, will be held at the fire station located at:

Station No. 1 - 3470

Park Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 2 - 844

Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, New York

Station No. 4 - 1191

Alken Avenue, Seaford,

New York

Station No. 5 - 2895

Merrick Road, Wantagh, New York

On December 9th 2025 between the hours of 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm to vote on whether to approve the following Resolution adopted by such Board of Fire Commissioners: Should the: RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM: A RESOLUTION OF THE WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS, AUTHORIZING, PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 1l-A OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL LAW OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING DEFINED BENEFIT SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM CURRENTLY ADMINISTERED BY THE WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT FOR ACTIVE VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER MEMBERS OF THE WANTAGH FIRE DEPARTMENT, TO BE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026; STATING THAT THE SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM SHALL INCREASE THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF YEARS OF ALLOWABLE SERVICE CREDIT FROM FORTY YEARS TO FIFTY YEARS; STATING THAT ALL OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM, WHICH REQUIRE VOTER APPROVAL TO BE AMENDED, SHALL NOT CHANGE AND THE PROGRAM SHALL CONTINUE TO BE ADMINISTERED BY THE WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 1l-A OF THE NEW YORK STATE GENERAL MUNICIPAL LAW AS SUCH LAW IS AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME. duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioner of said Fire District on December 9th 2025 be approved?

The resolution authorizing this referendum was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners on May 19th, 2025. All persons registered to vote in the district and residing in the district for at least thirty days prior to the day of the vote may vote in such special election. By order of the Board of Fire Commissioners Brendan J. Narell Superintendent

AVISO LEGAL DE ELECCIÓN

Distrito de bomberos de Wantagh en la ciudad de Hempstead, Nueva York

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con una resolución de la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos, se llevará a cabo una elección especial de los votantes calificados del Distrito de Bomberos de Wantagh en la ciudad de Hempstead, Condado de Nassau), Estado de Nueva York, en la estación de bomberos ubicada en: Estación No. 1 - 3470 Park Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 2 - 844

Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York Estación No. 4 - 1191 Alken Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York

Estación No. 5 - 2895 Merrick Road, Wantagh, Nueva York

El 9 de diciembre de 2025, entre las 1:00 p. m. y las 9:00 p. m., para votar si se aprueba la siguiente Resolución adoptada por dicha Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos: ¿Debería: RESOLUCIÓN PARA ENMENDAR EL PROGRAMA DE PREMIOS POR SERVICIOS: UNA RESOLUCIÓN DE LA JUNTA DE COMISIONADOS DE BOMBEROS DEL DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH, QUE AUTORIZA, DE CONFORMIDAD CON EL ARTÍCULO 1l-A DE LA LEY MUNICIPAL GENERAL DEL ESTADO DE NUEVA YORK, UNA ENMIENDA AL PROGRAMA EXISTENTE DE PREMIOS POR SERVICIOS DE BENEFICIOS DEFINIDOS ACTUALMENTE ADMINISTRADO POR EL DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH PARA LOS MIEMBROS ACTIVOS DE BOMBEROS VOLUNTARIOS DEL DEPARTAMENTO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH, QUE ENTRARÁ EN VIGENCIA EL 1 DE ENERO, 2026; DECLARANDO QUE EL PROGRAMA DE PREMIOS POR SERVICIOS AUMENTARÁ EL NÚMERO MÁXIMO DE AÑOS DE CRÉDITO POR SERVICIOS PERMITIDOS DE CUARENTA A

CINCUENTA AÑOS; DECLARANDO QUE TODAS LAS DEMÁS DISPOSICIONES DEL PROGRAMA DE PREMIOS AL SERVICIO DEL DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH, QUE REQUIEREN LA APROBACIÓN DE LOS VOTANTES PARA SER ENMENDADAS, NO CAMBIARÁN Y EL PROGRAMA CONTINUARÁ SIENDO ADMINISTRADO POR EL DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE WANTAGH DE ACUERDO CON EL ARTÍCULO 1l-A DE LA LEY MUNICIPAL GENERAL DEL ESTADO DE NUEVA YORK, YA QUE DICHA LEY SE MODIFICA DE VEZ EN CUANDO. debidamente adoptado por la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos de dicho Distrito de Bomberos el 9 de diciembre de 2025?

La resolución que autoriza este referéndum fue adoptada por la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos el 19 de mayo de 2025. Todas las personas registradas para votar en el distrito y que residan en el distrito durante al menos treinta días antes del día de la votación pueden votar en dicha elección especial. Por orden de la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos

Brendan J. Narell Superintendente 156629

LEGAL NOTICE

Legal Notice for Fire District Election

Annual Election of the Wantagh Fire District December 9, 2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the annual election of the Wantagh Fire District shall be held on Tuesday December 9, 2025 beginning at 2:00 o’clock P.M., voting to be at the following polling places:

Station No. 1 - 3470

Park Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 2 - 844

Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York

Station No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, New York

Station No. 4 - 1191

Alken Avenue, Seaford, New York

Station No. 5 - 2895

Merrick Road, Wantagh, New York

The polls shall remain open until 9:00 o’clock p.m., or as much longer as necessary to enable the voters then present

to cast their votes for the purpose of electing a Fire District Commissioner of said Fire District for a term of five years, commencing January 1, 2026, to succeed Commissioner Bradley G. Field, whose term of office expires on December 31, 2025. Only residents registered to vote with the Nassau County Board of Elections on or before November 17, 2025 shall be eligible to vote. Further notice is hereby given that nominations for the office of Fire Commissioner, for the previously mentioned position, shall be submitted in petition form subscribed to by at least twenty-five (25)-qualified voters of the Wantagh Fire District. Said petitions shall set forth the name of the candidate and their address and the office for which they are nominated. Such nominating petitions shall be filed with Kevin J. Regan, District Secretary, at Wantagh Fire District, 2045 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York on or before the 19th day of November 2025. Brendan J. Narell Superintendent Wantagh Fire District Aviso Legal para la Elección del Distrito de Bomberos Elección Anual del Distrito de Bomberos de Wantagh 9 de diciembre de 2025 POR FAVOR TENGA EN CUENTA que la elección anual del Distrito de Bomberos de Wantagh se llevará a cabo el martes 9 de diciembre de 2025 a partir de las 2:00 p. m., votando en los siguientes lugares de votación:

Estación No. 1 - 3470

Park Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 2 - 844 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, Nueva York

Estación No. 3 - 2529

Neptune Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York Estación No. 4 - 1191

Alken Avenue, Seaford, Nueva York

Estación No. 5 - 2895

Merrick Road, Wantagh, Nueva York

Las urnas permanecerán abiertas hasta las 9:00 p.m., o tanto tiempo como sea necesario para permitir que los votantes presentes en ese momento emitan sus votos con el fin de elegir un Comisionado del Distrito de Bomberos de dicho Distrito de Bomberos

Thousand gather for Out of the Darkness walk

Thousands gathered at Jones Beach on Oct. 26 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk, a threemile event dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and supporting those affected by suicide loss.

Hosted by the Long Island chapter of AFSP, the event drew more than 4,000 participants last year, making it one of the largest walks in the country. In 2024, the Long Island walk ranked second out of more than 400 AFSP walks nationwide, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to mental health awareness.

Opening ceremonies at Field 5 included a military color guard, the National Anthem, and remarks from AFSP staff, volunteers, and sponsors. Walkers then made their way along the Jones Beach boardwalk, many wearing colored honor beads that symbolized their personal connection to the cause. Each color represented a specific relationship or experience — such as the loss of a parent, sibling, friend, or child — creating a powerful display of remembrance and unity.

Throughout the event, participants

por un período de cinco años, a partir del 1 de enero de 2026, para suceder al comisionado Bradley G. Field, cuyo mandato vence el 31 de diciembre de 2025. Solo los residentes registrados para votar en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau el 17 de noviembre de 2025 o antes serán elegibles para votar.

Por la presente se da aviso adicional de que las nominaciones para el cargo de Comisionado de Bomberos, para el puesto mencionado anteriormente, se presentarán en forma de petición suscrita por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito de Bomberos de

Wantagh. En dichas peticiones se hará constar el nombre del candidato y su dirección y el cargo para el cual se postula. Dichas peticiones de nominación se presentarán ante Kevin J. Regan, distrito secretaria, en el distrito de bomberos de Wantagh, 2045 Wantagh Avenue,

Wantagh, Nueva York, el 19 de noviembre de 2025 o antes. Brendan J. Narell Superintendente Distrito de Bomberos de Wantagh 156628

visited the Hope and Healing Tent and candle-lighting area to honor loved ones. The 22 Pushup Challenge recognized veterans, and local radio stations WBAB and WBLI provided music and entertainment along the route.

Funds raised from the walk will support AFSP’s education, research, and advocacy programs, which promote suicide prevention and mental health awareness across Long Island and the nation. The organization’s local chapter offers outreach initiatives in schools, workplaces, and community groups aimed at reducing stigma and encouraging open dialogue about mental health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, but efforts such as AFSP’s community walks continue to raise awareness and provide resources for those in need.

For more information about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or upcoming events, visit afsp. org/longislandwalkwest.

— Charles Shaw

Event organizer Ann Morrison-Pacella speaks to the crowd during the walk’s opening ceremony.

The event aimed to raise awareness about suicide prevention and supporting those affected by

Waterfront Living at its Finest

Is my home too big an insurance risk?

Q. My home insurance is being canceled, and I’m actively looking around to replace it. The excuse I got was that the companies that used to insure find the risks in flood and wind-prone areas are now too great. I understand this, so I’m wondering if there are things I can do to make my home less of an insurance risk to a company. Are there reasonable upgrades I can make, and what are they?

A. The answer has two sides, like a doubleedged sword. First, yes, there are things you can do to your home to make it easier to insure. But the second part is applying the meaning of the word “reasonable.” Next, you have to understand that, like other forms of gambling, which is what insurance really is, do you have a chance to win back your money, your insurance payments, or your investment in your property to presumably reduce the payments?

Again, insurance is a legalized form of gambling, extensively regulated but sometimes loosely enforced. Many people say, when describing gambling casinos, that the house always wins in the end, and with a few exceptions, casinos rarely fail. Insurance companies have been hit with one disaster after another due to strange global weather that some deny is a trend, but those companies aren’t as care-less, and they invest heavily in statistical analysis, so you can bet that if they’re pulling out of certain areas, they know something.

So, a “reasonable” investment to make your house easier or more attractive to insure often ends up being unreasonable, or is based on faulty assumptions. For example, you may add a steel roof and concrete composite siding as a more reasonable and less costly wind-resistance improvement, only to discover that the insurance company thinks you should still have raised your home, because they think flooding is a bigger and more frequent risk to insure.

Add to that the fact, as some insurers will point out when you complain, that by making the improvements, you increase the cost of reconstruction. That’s a good argument, one you’ll never win. The same thing happens with alarm systems, fencing your property or removing trees that could fall on your roof.

Make improvements that help you to recover more healthfully, safely and economically, for your own assurance. I am convinced, as you can see, that all the effort you put in is not universal in your neighborhood, and insurance companies look at whole areas, not just your home, for insurability. Even the Federal Emergency Management Agency is a large and extremely indebted insurance company, funded with the help of tax dollars and losing billions. So before you make changes and improvements, remind yourself that you’re doing this for yourself, not to reduce insurance costs. As Walter Cronkite used to say when he signed off on his broadcast of “The CBS Evening News” when I was a kid, “And that’s the way it is.” Good luck with whatever you decide to improve.

© 2025 Monte Leeper

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

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opinions

GOP cuts to health care will hurt Long Island families

one of the top issues I heard about when I campaigned for Congress was that it was getting more expensive to live on Long Island, and people were worried about whether they could afford to stay here. And as we face a cost-of-living crisis, the rising cost of health care has become crippling to young people, families and seniors alike.

LAURA A. GiLLEn

Rising medical bills are forcing Americans in every state to face the prospect of choosing between paying for groceries and going to the doctor’s office. When I came to Congress, I vowed to work in a bipartisan way to reduce Nassau County families’ cost of living, and in particular the cost of health care.

Unfortunately, we have seen the congressional majority refuse to act on bringing down the costs of prescription drugs or monthly insurance bills. In fact, their cuts to our medical system will move us in the wrong direction and raise Americans’ medical expenses. First they passed the “Big Beautiful

WBill” without any bipartisan input earlier this year. It included the largest cuts to Medicaid in its history, which will result in millions of Americans losing their insurance coverage and make it harder for seniors to afford nursing homes or other long-term care.

pThe impact of these budget cuts will stretch far beyond just those on Medicaid. At a nonpartisan budget briefing I held earlier this year with Rep. Tom Suozzi, hundreds of Long Islanders heard from former Northwell Health CEO Michael Dowling about how the cuts to Medicaid mean that all Americans can expect more expensive insurance coverage and reduced services at hospitals, doctors’ offices and other health care providers.

would throw millions of Americans into financial uncertainty.

Preserving these tax credits should be a bipartisan priority. In the House, I called for both sides to come on board and help American families. But the majority refused to discuss the issue, and instead passed a continuing resolution that will allow the credits to expire at the end of the year. Since then, they have refused to even negotiate a bipartisan path forward despite the credits’ looming end.

reserving Affordable Care Act tax credits should be a bipartisan priority.

Next, as we were looking to fund the government, Democrats sought to discuss with Republicans the urgent need to keep health care affordable by extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that have helped millions of families afford health care by reducing their monthly insurance bills. For years, families in both red and blue states have relied on these credits for coverage, but they are set to lapse at the end of the year, which

I’ve heard from many Nassau County residents who are deeply concerned that their health care costs are set to skyrocket under the majority’s plan. A Floral Park woman was notified that her monthly insurance premium would rise by $1,500, and an Oceanside resident reported that her premiums, deductibles and co-pay were all set to increase drastically. When these premiums go up, families will have no choice but to go uninsured, and young people will forgo insurance coverage.

When the uninsured rate increases, the cost of health care rises for us all. Health care experts at the nonpartisan Century Foundation have warned that

the expiration of these tax credits will result in the largest single-year premium spike in our nation’s history for all Americans, even those with private insurance. The nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation reports that a family of four could see their annual insurance bill increase by over $13,000, and a single mother could face a price hike of more than $10,000 for coverage, while a couple in their 60s might see their premiums rise by over $20,000.

This should not be a partisan fight. Every member of Congress has a responsibility to make life more affordable for the people we represent, and that is what I’ve been doing. I’ll work with anyone, from any party, to continue bringing costs down and to ensure that people have health care.

Right now, Congress should be in session and at work negotiating a bipartisan package that lowers costs and protects quality, affordable health care in an economically sound way. Instead of listening to the intolerant extremes on either side, we should work together to solve the problems that our constituents sent us to Washington to fix. I’m committed to that aim, and I’ll continue to fight for bipartisan solutions that lower costs and make life better for Long Islanders.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

Treat your brain better than your car

JR.

hen you take your car in for its yearly inspection, you want the mechanic to examine it thoroughly. Overlooking a vital system like the engine or transmission could lead to serious problems, including ones that jeopardize the safety of the vehicle’s drivers and passengers. You treat an annual physical with a doctor the same way: Why would anyone neglect having one of their body’s most vital organs — the brain — checked to make sure it’s firing on all cylinders? Unfortunately, it happens too often. In numerous ways, the brain is the body’s command center. Thoughts, emotions, senses, language, balance, coordination, breathing and heartbeat all depend on the brain. Yet many people don’t get regular memory screenings, even though these quick, noninvasive “checkups from the neck up” should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine. Fear is a common reason. Cognitive impairment can lead to loss of independence, functionality and treasured

remembrances of people, places and events. People may worry about being stigmatized, treated differently, pitied or seen as less capable by friends, family or coworkers.

All of that is a scary prospect. Being afraid is natural and understandable, especially for those exhibiting warning signs of memory impairment. Allowing that fear to prevent action, however, can lead to worse outcomes. Ignoring the problem hardly ever makes it go away, and usually exacerbates it.

depression, urinary tract infections and medication side effects are some treatable, if not curable, causes of memory impairments. Without a diagnosis, they cannot be corrected, which could cause more significant problems down the road.

i f you’ve never had a memory screening, or are overdue for one, get screened this year.

Lack of awareness is another reason people neglect the health of the brain. Many people don’t know what memory screenings are, why they’re necessary and where or how to get one. Nor are they aware of the importance of early detection of memory issues, even those caused by an incurable condition like Alzheimer’s disease. Others mistakenly believe that memory problems occur naturally as you get older, and that there’s nothing that can be done.

Education is critical to reduce fear and dispel the myth that any memory trouble equals a severe, untreatable illness or is an inevitable part of normal aging that afflicts everyone. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea,

Even if a memory issue is the result of Alzheimer’s disease, early detection matters. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s in the early stages gives people the opportunity to start medications sooner in the disease progression, when they’re most effective (or in some cases, are only offered then); enroll in a clinical trial; and begin therapeutic interventions that can help prolong cognitive functioning and enhance quality of life.

Memory screenings are equally important for people who aren’t experiencing symptoms of memory loss. Like other health screenings, they provide a baseline that can help uncover a potential issue sooner. Checking and tracking your blood pressure regularly enables doctors to act if you have hypertension, because high blood pressure increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke or kidney failure. Mammograms and PSA tests aren’t just given to people experiencing potential symptoms of breast cancer and prostate

cancer; all women and men of a certain age are advised to get them annually to catch cancer as quickly as possible. If you’ve never had a memory screening, or are overdue for one, make it a point to get screened this year. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free, confidential memory screenings regularly at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville. They are performed one on one with a qualified professional, and consist of a series of questions designed to test memory and other cognitive functions. The screening itself is not a diagnosis, but it can indicate if someone should see a physician for a more comprehensive evaluation of potential memory impairment.

Schedule an appointment for a free memory screening by contacting the center at (631) 223-4000. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to get screened. There are no minimum age or insurance prerequisites.

Your brain is far more important than your car. Buying or leasing a new one is impossible. Warranties don’t exist for it, and there is no extended coverage available for purchase. The one you have now is the only one you’ll ever own. Be just as vigilant about checking it each year.

Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

As neighbors go hungry, D.C. plays politics

on Saturday, 184,000 Long Islanders across nearly every ZIP code in Nassau and Suffolk counties woke up without the food assistance they rely on to feed their families. Forty-eight hours later, under public pressure, the Trump administration announced that it would fund just half of the $100 billion Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The federal government shutdown has done the once unthinkable, gutting SNAP and leaving 42 million Americans — one in eight — wondering where their next meal will come from. SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, helps lowincome families buy groceries with electronic payment cards.

Our Long Island neighbors who participate in SNAP — working families, children, seniors and people with disabilities — receive an average of $187 per month to put food on the table. That’s for a full month. For their full families. Roughly 3 million people in New York rely on food stamps. They now face impossible choices between meals, rent and medicine.

In an extraordinary display of community compassion, restaurants across Long Island and around the nation have stepped up to offer free meals to families who have lost their food stamp benefits. These acts of generosity exemplify the best of community, reminding us that when Washington fails, ordinary Americans will take care of one another, because compassion — like hunger — isn’t a partisan issue.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency, and committed $65 million in new state funds to emergency food assistance, which will provide 40 million meals through food banks and pantries. SNAP recipients should continue submitting required documentation to their local Department of Social Services, because benefits will hopefully be paid retroactively when federal funding resumes.

Locally, Island Harvest and Long Island Cares continue to serve food-insecure families across Nassau and Suffolk counties. This self-inflicted crisis hits at the worst possible time, in the weeks before Thanksgiving, one of the busiest periods for food banks, while federal workers remain without paychecks due to the ongoing shutdown. Food banks are preparing for unprecedented stress that will be felt in communities everywhere.

We’re grateful for the compassion shown by restaurants and businesses that are stepping forward to feed their neighbors. We’re thankful for the tireless work of our food banks. These extraordinary acts of kindness demonstrate the

If you need food assistance

Call 211 for immediate help finding your nearest food pantry or community kitchen.

Island Harvest Food Bank works with more than 300 community partners throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Application assistance is available in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.

Website: islandharvest.org

Phone: (516) 294-8528

Long Island Cares serves families across the region with food pantries and emergency assistance.

Website: licares.org

Phone: (631) 582-FOOD (3663)

Some food delivery apps are offering grocery credits to SNAP recipients throughout November. Check apps for details on assistance programs.

Continue submitting documentation to your local Department of Social Services. Benefits are expected to be paid retroactively when federal funding resumes.

Restaurants offering free meals Some local restaurants are providing free meals to anyone with a SNAP card. Check social media or call restaurants in your area to ask about assistance programs.

How you can help

Donate to food banks:

■ Island Harvest: islandharvest.org, (516) 294-8528

■ Long Island Cares: licares.org, 631-582-FOOD (3663)

Financial contributions allow food banks to purchase and distribute food efficiently.

Volunteer: Food banks desperately need volunteers to sort, pack and distribute food across Long Island. Even a few hours makes an enormous difference. Contact Island Harvest or Long Island Cares to sign up.

Support restaurants helping neighbors: Patronize local businesses that offer free meals to families in need.

strength of our communities when we support one another. But private charity, no matter how generous, cannot replace a federal program serving more people than the population of many countries. If demand skyrockets, local food pantries may have to reduce distribution portions and limit the frequency with which people can receive food. Families that have never needed help before — in every Long Island community — are about to discover what food insecurity feels like. And the economic ripple effects extend beyond hungry families. Food stamps generate $1.54 in economic activity for every dollar spent. This suspension hurts businesses, employees and entire communities from one end of the Island to the other. As well, hungry children

Their generosity deserves our support.

Contact your elected officials and demand action:

■ Sen. Chuck Schumer: (202) 224-6542

■ Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand: (202) 224-4451

■ U.S. Capitol switchboard (for your congressional representative): (202) 224-3121

Tell them Long Island families cannot be pawns in political games. The shutdown must end, and SNAP funding must be restored immediately.

Become a grocery buddy: Help a neighbor or stranger buy groceries. Even small contributions make a difference for families struggling to afford food.

will struggle to learn and behave. With many classrooms likely to have students on food stamps, the SNAP suspension will impact learning in schools across America.

Long Island will rise to this challenge, caused by Washington’s dereliction of duty, because that’s who Long Islanders are. The restaurants opening their doors to feed families in need, the food banks working overtime, the people becoming grocery buddies to help strangers buy food — these are the stories that define us.

But we must also demand accountability. The shutdown must end. Food stamps must be fully funded. And every elected official who played politics with families’ ability to eat must answer to voters.

opinions

Add project labor agreements to major school projects

From our city skyscrapers to the subways that keep our cities moving, union labor built this state. And now, as our schools age and our communities continue to grow, we have a new opportunity to show what it means to lead with our values.

The School Construction Fair Labor Act, sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez and I, is a chance for New York to show up for working class people and make sure the workers building our schools are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.

This bill would require project labor agreements, or PLAs, for all Long Island public school construction projects costing over $1 million. Before a single shovel hits the ground, PLAs lay out clear terms for wages, safety standards and conflict resolution. That means less

chaos on job sites, and a better final result for our school communities.

We already know this approach works. Research from Cornell University shows that PLAs make job sites safer and more cost-effective over time. That’s because they prevent the chaos that comes when non-union contractors underbid jobs by reducing wages and ignoring safety.

We’ve seen it time and again: When we cut corners on construction, our schools pay the price.

Tlot of our own talent here in our region. This isn’t a strong model for success, and puts our own unions at a disadvantage.

ensure that public dollars work to create local jobs and support a stable workforce.

School buildings that fall apart too soon. Heating systems that fail in the middle of winter. These are all costly and avoidable problems. By ensuring a stable, experienced workforce from the start, PLAs create the strongest conditions for a job well done.

This bill isn’t just about upgrading our schools — it’s about working-class Long Islanders. Right now, far too many school construction contracts are awarded to out-of-state firms that bring their own workforce, which bypasses a

Long Island public schools receive nearly 80 percent of their construction funding through the state’s Building Aid program. That’s hundreds of millions of public dollars flowing into the region every year. The question isn’t whether we’ll spend this money; it’s whether we will spend it responsibly. With 125 school districts, these are not small or occasional projects. They’re an important part of our public infrastructure, and they should be built to the best standards possible.

Requiring PLAs would ensure that public dollars work to create local jobs and support a stable, skilled workforce. Many PLAs include workforce development components that prioritize hiring from the local community, which includes Black, Latino, Asian American and Pacific Islander New Yorkers, and other underrepresented groups in the

trades. That helps create long-term opportunities for working families. It also supports small and responsible local contractors. PLAs don’t exclude non-union firms; they just require everyone to play by the same rules. That levels the playing field for businesses that do their part to pay fair wages and provide workers’ benefits. This bill would also provide clarity and consistency. As things stand now, each school district manages its construction bidding process independently, which leads to unpredictable results and unequal standards. A uniform PLA requirement for projects over $1 million would offer a reliable baseline, while still giving our local school leaders the flexibility they need.

At its core, the School Construction Fair Labor Act is about making sure public money works for the public good. That means investing in our infrastructure, and in the people who build it. Let’s pass this legislation, and make sure our schools are built to last, by workers who are valued and paid fair wages.

Framework by Jacqui Kiddle