Amityville Herald 06_10_2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

ReCORD

Carolyn James/Herald Joe O’Shea and Paul Cannella of the West Babylon Lions Club greeted fair goers May 16.

Italian festival fills Town Hall lawn

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

There was food.

There was music.

There was fun.

And there was plenty of all three at the Town of Babylon’s annual Italian Food Festival, held last month at Town Hall.

The event drew hundreds of residents and visitors to the Great Lawn at Town Hall for a celebration of Italian culture featuring food, live entertainment, family activities and community spirit.

Local vendors served everything from bomboloni and pizza to zeppoles, sausage, braciole, meatballs and Italian ice. Guests also enjoyed performances by Angelo Venuto, Maria Venuto, Carmelo Raccuglia and DJ Domenick, as well as a Kids Zone and a classic Cadillac display.

The festival was hosted by Councilman Anthony Manetta and Town Clerk Gerry Compitello in partnership with the Constantino Brumidi Lodge of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.

Attendees were also encouraged to donate pasta and sauce to support Manetta’s 8th Annual Pasta & Sauce Food Drive, which ben-

efits local families in need.

“This event is a wonderful way to celebrate our Italian heritage while bringing the community together for a great cause,” Manetta said.

Among those enjoying the festivities were sisters Lyla and Francesca Verdicchio, daughters of Helga and Joe Verdicchio of Deer Park. The family spent the day at the festival, with the girls sporting colorful face paint.

For Mary Fish, John DiBiase, Maralyn Curley, Mario Pusateri and Vincenzo Fattorusso, the festival provided an opportunity to gather with friends for an afternoon of “divertimento,” the Italian word for fun.

“We are having a great time,” Fish said as the group sat on a bench near the bandstand, listening to music and tapping their feet.

Michael Gentile, a member of the LaFamiglia Cadillac Club, displayed his Cadillac, which attracted the attention of festivalgoers.

Antoinette and Mario Tallarico of Deer Park enjoyed dancing on the lawn as music filled the air.

“We come every year,” Antoinette Tallarico said. “It is a beautiful event.”

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

New York State lawmakers are calling for passage of a law that would require businesses to release security footage to police investigating a crime within 24 hours of their request.

The proposed measure, called the Edeedson “Joshy” Cine, Jr. Transparency Act, is in the name of 23-year-old Josh Cine who was stabbed to death during a robbery at the CVS pharmacy on Montauk Highway in Lindenhurst on Christmas Day, 2025. Suffolk County Police investigators negotiated with CVS officials for the tapes for 18 hours before the company agreed to release them.

“In the immediate aftermath of a violent crime, an investigator’s focus needs to be on identifying a suspect rather than negotiating to secure footage of the incident,” said New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez (D-4th) referring to the delay.

The difficulty police had in getting the tapes pointed to the lack of any clear and decisive legislation that requires that businesses release the tapes, said Martinez who called the press conference.

Edeedson “Joshy” Cine Jr., who was killed during a robbery

Currently private companies are not required to hand over surveillance footage without a warrant or subpoena, and there are no repercussions for delays or a failure to comply.

New York State Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow (D-11th) who attended the conference and sponsored the measure in the Assembly, said it has received wideCONTINUED ON

ASD asking state for a recount in May 19 elections

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Amityville School District is asking the New York State commissioner of education to conduct a recount of the school board election results from May 19.

While the district does not anticipate that the review will change the results announced on election night, Superintendent Gina Talbert said the district wants to “ensure accuracy and integrity of the election process.”

In a letter to the community announcing the decision, Talbert said that as the district was preparing the official postelection documents, an error in the tabulation process was discovered.

“At this time while the final vote totals may differ from those reported on the evening of May 19, we do not anticipate any change to the outcome of either the budget vote or the trustee election,” said Talbert.

The school’s decision was also announced to the public at this week’s school board meeting by President Lisa Johnson.

A school district is not required to conduct a recount when a discrepancy is determined to be insignificant and would not change the outcome of an election. However, only the commissioner’s office can authorize a recount, generally at the request of a resident or school officials.

“The board of Education takes its

responsibility to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the election process very seriously,” said Talbert in explaining the district’s decision to ask the commissioner’s office to conduct the recount. “We believe transparency is essential in maintaining public trust.”

“Historically the Commissioner of Education has rarely ordered recounts, particularly when discrepancies are too small to affect an election’s outcome,” said School Board Trustee Juan Leon who supported the board’s decision. “However, the district’s legal counsel has recommended the district petitition the Commissioner, which suggests that our situation may require additional review.”

The election results on May 19 showed that the four Rising Tide candidates won seats on the school board: Angel Davenport, with 811 votes; Cheryl Quintyne-Best, 807; Michael McDonald, 761; and Equasia Yard-Jean, 785.

They defeated the Tide Turners candidates: Donelle Cronin, with 745 votes; Wendy Canestro, 712; Stephannie Andrews, 685; and Chris Papile, 685.

Amityville voters also approved the school budget, 740-621. Those results are not in question.

Newly elected school board member Michael McDonald agreed with the district’s decision to ask for a recount, saying he fully supported the recount. “If there is a question, why not get an answer to it,” said McDonald.

While the board did not indicate by how much the vote totals were off, McDonald said the discrepancy was one vote, though he said he did not know in which race it occurred. “I absolutely support the recount.”

Canestro said she was concerned about the integrity of the election process both during the campaign and while votes were being counted. She said that she and another candidate, both former school board members, asked questions about the process on election night and received no clear

answers, “further compounding the lack of trust and integrity in the process,” she said.

“It is shocking,” she said. “Me and my team witnessed so many irregularities during the elections that we believe the entire process was compromised. These results should not be recounted—they should be overturned.”

The Herald reached out to the district’s attorneys, Guercio & Guercio, of Farmingdale. They were not immediately available for comment.

America’s 250th anniversary at Sagtikos Manor

Judge Isaac Thompson, owner of Sagtikos Manor and a magistrate of the Crown, permitted General Clinton and British forces to use the Manor as temporary quarters during the Revolutionary War. While many residents who refused to swear loyalty to the British Crown fled the area, Isaac Thompson and his family remained in Islip. Why did they choose to stay?

Following the American victory, George Washington embarked on his national tour to visit those who had contributed to the success of the Revolution. On April 21, 1790, Washington spent the night at Sagtikos Manor. Why did he choose Sagtikos? And what role, if any, did Isaac Thompson play in the Patriot cause?

Are you a Loyalist? The British 23rd

Royal Fusiliers will be questioning you on whether you signed the Oath of Loyalty to the King of England. Or are you a patriot?

The Culper Spy Ring will be on hand to make sure you understand what freedom from England means.

These and other questions will be answered at the Sagtikos Manor Historical Society’s event on Sunday, June 14 as the society recognizes the country’s 250th anniversary.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; admission is $15 for adults and children between 5 and 12 years old, $8. The Manor is at 677 West Montauk Hwy., West Bay Shore. For more information call 631-854-sagtikosmanor.org or go. to sagtikosmanor.org

Why Long Island stands to gain from clean energy

For many Long Islanders looking ahead, a major cause for concern is the lack of economic investments that bolsters financial opportunity for the next generation. This looks like great paying jobs with benefits while keeping everyday necessary expenses affordable so that they can afford to buy homes and raise their families where they grew up.

Long Island sits at a crossroads, having the opportunity to build an industry that can provide that economic investment, train an entire generation of skilled workers, and give our kids the chance to obtain great paying jobs, all at the same time as stabilizing energy costs. Offshore wind, solar power and battery storage are solutions to those challenges.

Starting With Affordability

Energy costs matter everywhere, but especially on Long Island, where household budgets are already stretched. John Durso, President of the Long Island Federation of Labor, said battery storage can help by leveling demand and reducing

expensive peak pricing.

“When there is a heavy pull, it evens out the energy so you don’t have highs and lows,” Durso said. “You don’t have to pay the higher rate because of the great demand.”

Jobs, Careers and Local Investment

Clean energy is already reshaping the labor market. Construction of offshore wind transmission, solar installations, battery facilities and supporting infrastructure requires everything from electricians, engineers and ironworkers to

experts in law, math and science.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity here for our environment, for jobs, for the future,” Durso said. “We want to create careers.”

Long Island has long watched younger residents leave for more affordable regions or larger job markets. Clean energy advocates say emerging industries can help reverse that pattern.

Safety and Reliability Matter

Battery storage projects have drawn public scrutiny in some

communities, but industry officials say safety standards have significantly evolved to include strict codes, testing and emergency planning.

“These systems are being developed with safety in mind from the start,” said Paul Rogers, a retired FDNY lieutenant and founding principal of Energy Safety Response Group.

Building the Next Long Island Economy

Supporters believe clean energy could become another major chapter — one that combines infrastructure investment with local employment and community stability.

For many residents, that future would be measured not in megawatts, but in whether Long Island remains home.

Block Island Wind Farm, located off the shore of Rhode Island, marked the first commercial offshore wind farm in the U.S. Now, for areas like Long Island, offshore wind is a driving force to clean, affordable energy and a healthy economy.

Babylon Town honors Suffolk police officers for heroic efforts

The Babylon Town Board recognized nine members of the Suffolk County Police Department during a recent meeting for their response to a pediatric cardiac arrest emergency in West Babylon on Easter Sunday.

Town officials said the officers were honored for their professionalism, teamwork and quick actions during a medical emergency involving a 4-year-old child. Working alongside emergency medical personnel, the officers helped restore the child’s pulse before the child was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital.

The officers recognized by the board were Officers Ayrton Abril, Alper Bari, Branden Casco, Brendan Greaney, Kenneth Read, Christopher Tocco and Frank Pristera, as well as Lt. Salvatore Gigante and Sgt. Brandon Picarillo.

Councilman Terrence McSweeney, chairman of the town’s Public Safety Committee, led the recognition ceremony

and commended the officers for their efforts.

“These officers demonstrated the very best of law enforcement,” McSweeney said.

“Their training, professionalism, teamwork and ability to remain calm under pressure helped save the life of a 4-year-old child. We are grateful for their service and proud to recognize their heroic actions on behalf of the residents of the Town of Babylon.”

Each officer received a proclamation from the Town Board recognizing their dedication to public service and their role in the life-saving response.

Supervisor Rich Schaffer said the incident underscores the commitment shown by first responders every day.

“When a family faced one of the most frightening moments imaginable, these officers answered the call and made a difference,” Schaffer said. “Their quick actions and unwavering commitment to

Spiritual leader draws hundreds to Amityville meditation programs

Despite rainy Memorial Day weekend weather, hundreds of people gathered at the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center in Amityville to hear internationally known spiritual teacher Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj speak about meditation, stress reduction and inner peace.

The free programs focused on practical ways to incorporate meditation and spiritual practices into daily life. On Saturday, Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj delivered a discourse on compassion, unity and personal growth. On Memorial Day, he presented an English-language program, From Stress to Calm through Meditation, offering techniques to reduce stress and cultivate greater clarity and well-being.

During the visit, Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj received a Special Congressional Recognition from U.S. Rep. Grace Meng for his community service. The recognition was presented by Dilip Chauhan, a member of the New York City

administration, who attended in a personal capacity.

Dr. Renee Mehrra, vice president of the Science of Spirituality Club at the United Nations, highlighted the spiritual leader’s work promoting peace, humanitarian service and meditation around the world.

The weekend also featured a musical performance by Punjabi singer Kanth Kaler, whose devotional Sufi music drew an enthusiastic response from attendees.

“As we meditate, we begin to experience peace within ourselves, and that peace naturally extends outward to our families, communities and the world,” Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj said.

Organizers said many participants described the meditation sessions as calming and meaningful. Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj serves as head of Science of Spirituality, an international organization dedicated to meditation, ethical living and service to others.

protecting our residents exemplify the highest standards of public service.”

Town officials said the ceremony highlighted the critical role first responders play in protecting the community and dem-

onstrated the importance of coordination between law enforcement and emergency medical personnel during life-threatening emergencies.

Student gains hands-on experience through Babylon Town internship

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

After one semester at Florida State University, Lindenhurst resident Jack Connors realized the college he had chosen was not the right fit for him.

With the support of his family, Connors returned home, enrolled as an accounting major at Suffolk County Community College and secured an internship with the Town of Babylon — an experience he said has provided valuable real-world lessons.

“I knew I wanted to combine college with some work experience,” Connors said. “And this is the perfect fit.”

Connors serves as an intern in the office of Babylon Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, where he answers phones, assists residents and helps with daily office operations.

Compitello said Connors quickly became a valuable member of the office.

“He is smart, personable and asks a lot of questions and is willing to learn,” she said.

During the internship, Connors has worked directly with constituents both in person and over the phone while gaining experience in workplace communication and office procedures. He has also learned practical skills such as maintaining professional workplace attire, handling administrative tasks and supporting the day-to-day functions of the clerk’s office.

“These are skills every employee needs, in every job; skills that are really not taught in school,” Compitello said.

he has gained valuable experience

She added that the experience has benefited the office staff as well by providing opportunities to develop their mentoring skills.

This fall, Connors will transfer to Binghamton University to continue his studies, bringing with him the knowledge and experience he gained during his time with the town.

“I learned a lot, know a lot more about what I want and I am grateful to have had this experience,” Connors said.

For more information about internship opportunities with the Town of Babylon, visit townofbabylonny. gov/948/Ujima-Program.

Courtesy Town of Babylon

Nine S.C. Police officers from the First Precinct were recently recognized by the Town of Babylon.

Carolyn James/Herald

Jack Connors hard at work in Babylon Town Clerk’s office where, he said,

Annual celebration also gives back to community with food drive

CONTINUED FROM COVER

Jeff Bailey traveled from Hicksville with his wife, Reneanne, and their children, Angille and Ayden.

“It’s a great way to spend a beautiful spring afternoon,” Bailey said while waiting in line for food.

“It was incredible to see so many families enjoying the food, music and entertainment, while also helping support neighbors in need through our annual food drive,” Manetta said. “I’m grateful to everyone who attended, donated and helped make the day such a success.”

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department and other local law enforcement and emergency service units:

DISABLED MOTORIST

Amityville: Police responded to a call shortly before 3:30 p.m., May 18 about a disabled motorist on Merrick Road at Bennett Place. When they arrived, they saw a vehicle stuck in the middle of the street. The driver said he/she ran out of gasoline. Police assisted the driver in moving the vehicle out of the roadway.

ASSAULT

Copiague: Two men approached and assaulted a third subject on Oak Street shortly before 2 p.m., May 28. Police said they punched the victim who was later taken to the hospital. Police are investigating the incident.

GRAND LARCENY

East Farmingdale: Someone stole a 2019 Dodge Charger that was parked on Main Street May 27. The report was filed at 11 p.m.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

Copiague: Suffolk Police arrested Jorge Vladimir Vasquez Alvarado, 29, of 112 Washinton Ave., Amityville, and charged him with damaging a glass door on the Copiague Deli, 1985 Great Neck Road.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired

Gabriel Guapacha, 45, of 17 Heyward St., Brentwood; Daniel Ritschel, 39, of 624 S. 5th St., Lindenhurst; Kelly Johnson, 53, of 811 Bay Shore Ave., West Islip.

Grand Larceny

Corey Yossung, 31, of 1314 Smithtown Ave., Bohemia; Devon Washington, 46, of 741 Taylor Ave., N. Bellport; Ronald Foster, 52, of 134 Putnam Ave., West Babylon (also. Charged with Petit Larceny).

Petit Larceny

Stephen Clayton, 42, of 38 Dorothy St., Port Jefferson Station; Angela Divito, 42, of 543 Thorn St., North Babylon; Douglas Dovale, 54, of 297 W. 9 St., Deer Park; Gina Barrera, 52, of 134 Boyle Rd., Selden; Mia Murphy, 28, of 75 Nevada Rd., West Babylon; Kuljinder Multani, 55, of. 4 Darney Pl., Huntington Station; Shariff Brown, 49, of 88 Locust Dr., Mastic Beach; Arielle Naughton, 183 Robinwood Dr., Shirley; Deidre Bruno, 35, of 186 Old Country Rd., Deer Park; Darryl Fishcer, 62 of 66 Irvin St., Central Islip (also charged with false personation); Marion McClure, 62, of 1 Hoppen Dr., Central. Islip; Alyson Balletti, 31, of. 81 West 5th St., Deer Park; Brian Szetela, 30, of 825 Carlton Rd., West Babylon; Andy Morales, 44, of 8817 214 St., Queens Village; Max Jacobson, 30, of 123 Thunder Rd., Holbrook.

Robbery

Imran Fariqu, 48, of 26 Northwood Ct., North Babylon.

Kidnapping

Anton Sims, 20, of. 77 Jefferson Ave., Wyandanch.

Criminal Trespass

Tiffany Orellana, 53 Deauville Blvd., Copiague (also charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance); Kevin Wrighton, 55, of 150 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach.

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

Antoinette and Mario Tallarico of Deer Park, danced to the music at the festival.

Sisters Lyla and Francesca Verdicchio are all “sparkled” up for the festival.

Jeff Bailey of Hicksville, left and Brian Deangelico of West Babylon right, enjoy a hero at the Italian Festival last month.

Where did that Dog get Baby Blue Eyes? There’s more than genetics involved

Dogs with blue eyes are stunning. There are four ways a dog can have blue eyes. One is genetic while the other three are linked to pigment loss in their coat. Below are the four ways:

Pets, Pets, Pets...

Merle Gene- a coat pattern often seen in Collies, Shelties, and Australian Shepherds (aka Aussies)- is the most common reason. Merle dilutes random parts of a dog’s pigment – including the nose and eyes – and causes the blue color in their iris. Because of this, “merle dogs” often have “butterfly” pattern noses as well as completely blue, split, or wall eyes.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Split eyes describe when the eye has some blue in it while the rest is brown or amber. Wall eyes appear when one eye is completely blue and the other is completely brown or amber. A dog with one dose of the merle gene will show effects such as scattered spots of missing pigment – which includes the iris. Dogs with two doses of the merle gene are often deaf and can have other health problems.

White around the eyes-These dogs have a significant amount of white around their eyes. White areas on a dog’s coat indicates the cells cannot produce pigment. When on the face, there could be pigment loss in the nose and in the eyes – causing the eyes to be blue and the nose to the pink. This is often seen in dapple Dachshunds, harlequin (white & black) Great Danes and southern Cattle Dogs also known as “Blue Heelers”.

Albinos- “White Dobermans” have an extremely light coat, blue eyes, and a completely pink nose. They are thought to be a form of albinism.

Separate Gene- Certain breeds inherit a specific gene unaffected by coat color. The rare gene sometimes appears in Border Collies, Shelties, Aussies, and Dalmatians but is mainly seen in Siberian Huskies which can either have one blue eye or two – no matter what their coat color is.

This November 2018 National Geographic had an article about the largest study ever to explore this Husky gene that can cause blue-eyed dogs. The research was first published in the journal PLOS Genetics by Adam Boyko and Aaron Sams of Embark Veterinary, Inc.

The scientists evaluated the DNA of more than 6,000 dogs whose owners bought DNA test kits to confirm or identify their dogs’ breeds and explore their potential risk of health conditions. Owners participated in an online survey and shared photos of their dogs. Researchers found that a genetic change, or mutation, near a gene on canine chromosome 18 is strongly associated with blue eyes in Siberian Huskies.

Geneticist Kristopher Irizarry of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University pointed out- in the other breeds like Old English and Welsh Corgis, blue eyes are inherited as a recessive trait which means two copies –one from each

parent – are necessary for blue eyes to appear. Any puppy, purebred or mixed, can inherit two recessive genes and have blue eyes even though neither parent is blueeyed.

The mutated gene in Siberians seems to produce less pigment for the eye. This trait need not be recessive in Huskies. Only one Husky parent needs to contribute the mutant gene. A lack of pigment causes Huskies’ eyes to appear blue.

For Adoption at Last Hope Animal Rescue Adoption Center, 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh 11793: Daisy is a one-year-old miniDoberman with natural ears and tail. She is a cuddle bug. Betty Sue is a happy Basset mix four-month-old puppy with clean-yourpaintbrush tan streaks on her snout. Call 631-946-9528 for more information,

In the photo: This Husky has one blue eye and one amber eye which is called wall eye.

Daisy 1-year-old mini-Dobie

Betty Sue 4-month-old Basset mix puppy

Reworld celebrates Long Island environmental leaders

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Herald Community Media and Reworld partnered to celebrate Long Island’s leading environmental advocates and innovators during the Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, held May 14 at the Heritage Club at Bethpage.

The event recognized individuals and organizations making significant contributions to environmental sustainability while also honoring student leaders working to protect Long Island’s natural resources.

“Nothing unites Long Islanders more than our natural environment, from beaches and bays to wetlands and parks — these treasures are our fountain of life, beauty and resources,” said Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications. “Tonight, we gather to honor environmental champions who are working tirelessly to protect

Long Island’s natural ecosystem for future generations. Their efforts are challenging but vitally important and we thank them for their unwavering dedication.”

The ceremony, emceed by comedian Tom Kelley, also featured awards for four Student Champions for Sustainability and a total of $7,500 in student sustainability initiative prizes.

Adel Omrani, president of Reworld’s East Region, highlighted the company’s role in transforming waste into energy.

“You don’t think of waste when you put it at the curb, and you usually don’t think about disposal, but there’s a lot of processes that goes into that,” he said. “We generate electricity out of that and recycle metals. Just for Long Island, for example, we power 100,000 homes just from processing this waste and using it as fuel.”

Omrani said collaboration among environmental leaders remains essential.

“It’s a very big part of what we do as a community,” he said.

Reworld Market Area Director James Regan stressed the importance of sustainable waste management on Long Island.

“For Long Island, an issue like sustainable waste management is extremely important given how populated it is and how limited resources are,” he said. “Reworld, for us, has a focus to continue to partner with all

these great champions of sustainability to ensure we have sustainable waste management for decades to come.”

New York State Senator Siela Bynoe spoke during the dinner portion of the event.

“I have really had the environment in mind as I’ve been in my various roles in government,” she said.

Bynoe’s life experiences motivated her to pursue environmental advocacy, witnessing increased cancer rates due to local contamination in the Caribbean and disproportionate harm done to marginalized communities during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I set off on a path to make sure that we can conserve water, make sure we have clean water, and make sure that we are doing what we can to ensure that we sustain this community, this county and this state (so) that we have a bright future,” she said.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, a longtime environmental advocate, discussed his commitment to protecting Long Island’s future.

“I’m very concerned about the direction we’re going as a state and as an island, and I’m looking to change that direction by doing a number of things,” he said.

Romaine cited efforts to improve municipal waste management, expand solar energy infrastructure and advance environmentally friendly policies.

“I could have retired long ago, but there are things that I want to accomplish,” he said. “We need to see change.”

Among the evening’s featured speakers was sports broadcaster and former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason, who reflected on his connection to the Great South Bay.

“When I was a kid, between the ages of 14 and 17, I spent a lot of my summers on the Great South Bay — I was a clammer,” he said. “It was great, but there were areas of the Great South Bay that we couldn’t clam in because it was considered polluted... It took many years for it to turn around and to start going back the other way, and it’s one of the things I’m most proud about.”

Esiason praised young environmental advocates being recognized at the event.

“I’m very, very proud of them, and very proud of what they’re trying to do for the beaches of the Great South Bay,” he said.

Girl Scouts Emma Klein and Zoe Lazarus, Roslyn High School sophomore Charles Metzger and Hauppauge High senior Matias Ka-

laitzis were all winners of the Student Champions for Sustainability Award. The four were recognized for their civic service, from cleanups to awareness efforts.

National Grid Ventures, the main natural gas utility for over 600,000 residential and business customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties; Tritec, primarily known for mixeduse developments, transit-oriented communities and commercial property management across Long Island; and UBS Arena, the home of the New York Islanders, were all recognized with team awards.

As the presenting sponsor, Reworld continues to support environmental progress across Long Island. The company operates facilities in Westbury, West Babylon, East Northport and Ronkonkoma, processing two-thirds of Long Island’s waste, recycling thousands of tons of metals and generating electricity for local homes while helping reduce landfill use and greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information about Reworld and its initiatives that support various community empowerment and environmental programs fostering positive change locally and globally, visit ReworldWaste.com.

To view more pictures, visit RichnerLive.com.

Photos by Tim Baker/Herald

The Sustainability Awards powered by Reworld brought together leaders, innovators, and advocates committed to building a more sustainable future for Long Island.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Sponsors for the night (back, from left) included Ricardo Salce, Bobby Green, Rudy Winkler, Rob Balbierz, James Regan, Bill Murphy, David Sharp, Adel Omrani, Maureen Early, Ed Sandkuhl, Matt Augi, Brian Aerne and (front, from left) Kamrun Haque, Vickey Ardounis, and Rehan Simonia from the team at Reworld.

Baptiste/Herald Honoree Suffolk County Executive, Edward P. Romaine with special guest, former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason.

Baptiste/Herald Honoree Maxine Montello, New York Marine Rescue Center executive director.

Each honoree was presented with a crystal award commemorating their outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Tim Baker/Herald

A special thank you to Adel Omrani, President of Reworld East Region, whose vision and leadership helped bring this inspiring celebration of sustainability to life.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Guests enjoyed freshly shucked oysters by Keena Boyle of Tall Mutha Shucka during the cocktail hour.

Baptiste/Herald Honoree State Senator Siela Bynoe, District 6.

Baptiste/Herald College Student Champion Honoree Vienna De Lombaerde, who attends Hofstra University.

Baptiste/Herald The duo team honorees for the Student Champion Award: Sayville High School 9th graders Emma Klein, left, and Zoe Lazarus.

Baptiste/Herald Honoree Cynthia Seibold, founder and executive director of Balloon Mission, Inc.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Derek Betts, Nassau County Soil and Water District Manager, left, with Conservation District Lead Community Relations Specialist Maureen Early and Reworld. Market Area Director James Regan.

of Save the

Baptiste/Herald Honoree Devon Giordano, Long Island Conservancy executive director.

Honoree Julie Tighe, president of New York League of Conservation Voters

Humphrey, C.P.E.S.C, District Manager for Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Melissa

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Robyn Silvestri, executive director

Great South Bay.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Corey

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Marty Bellew, president of Islip Resource Recovery Agency.

Melissa

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Eileen Minogue, Book Fairies executive director.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Nick Krupski, solid waste coordinator for Southold Town Department of Solid Waste.

Tim Baker/Herald

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Student Champion honorees: Roslyn High School 10th grader Charles Metzger, left, and Hauppauge High School graduating senior Matias Kalaitzis with special guest Kyle Palmieri of the New York Islanders.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald National Grid Ventures’ honor team included Kamona Ayres, left, Robert Wittmer, Tom Garry, Alanna Russo, and Retha Fernandez.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Tianna D’Italia, left, Michael Sciortino, Mike Santeramo, Joe Giarraputo, Caroline Shipps, and Erin Nourijanian of UBS Arena’s honoree team.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Michael O’Leary, left, Robert Kent, Shannon Coughlan, Jim Coughlan, Jimmy Coughlan, and Chris Kelly of Tritec Real Estate Company’s honoree team.

OBITUARY

Jerold Nemetz, longtime Amityville attorney and civic leader, dies at 79

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Jerold Nemetz, a well-known attorney who practiced law in Amityville for more than 50 years and served in several public roles in the Town of Babylon and Village of Amityville, died May 26, 2026. He was 79. Born Nov. 19, 1946, Nemetz grew up in

Amityville, the son of Arthur and Sylvia Nemetz. He played clarinet in the Amityville High School marching band and helped his father in the family laundry business.

After attending Hofstra University and CW Post, Nemetz graduated from New York Law School and opened his own law practice in 1976 on Broadway in Ami-

tyville. During his career, he also served as assistant district attorney for the Town of Babylon and as a village prosecutor in Amityville. Active in community affairs, he was elected president of the Amityville School Board and served on the board of the THAW program, or Talented Handicapped Artists Workshop.

Nemetz married Linda Kronovet in 1970, and the couple had a son, Brent Sterling, in 1973. They later divorced.

In recalling his father, Brent Nemetz said he could always depend on him.

“He was there for the birthday with the big King Kong chocolate cake; he was there when he taught me how to ride a dirt bike with a banana seat, running alongside, just until I realized he wasn’t holding on anymore,” Brent said. “He taught me how to shake hands when I met someone, and he was there with me in the emergency room when I hit my head and got stitches after running in socks on linoleum to answer the telephone.”

Brent added that his father was there when he and his wife welcomed triplets.

Rickey Hill, a longtime personal and business relationship said Mr. Nemetz had a “sincere and loving care for people.

“He provided legal expertise to the surrounding community and would go above and beyond the call of duty. He also provided affordable housing to many families in the Town of Babylon.”

Local Attorney Richard Handler, who knew Mr. Nemetz professionally for many years, described him as “a true gentleman.

“Despite the competition, unreliability and rudeness often seen in the practice of law these days, Jerry made working with him a pleasure. Whether in an adversarial or transactional relationship, he could always be counted on as being honest and trustworthy, which is a rare quality these days.”

An outdoorsman, Nemetz enjoyed boating, sailing and riding his motorcycle with friends and family. He also traveled exten-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

147 Park Ave., Amityville

Ofﬁce Tel. 631-264-0763

The Rev. Thomas W. Cusanelli, Pastor

WORSHIP SERVICES:

Sunday Worship & Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday Worship 7:30 p.m.

Accessible to the Physcially Challenged “The Friendly Church”

Jerold Nemetz, local Attorney

Fr. Dale W. VanWormer, Rector

Woo Young Choi, Pastor

Surveillance tape law under review

spread support from Democrats as well as Republicans.

“This is not a political issue,” said O’Pharrow, who is retired from law enforcement. “It is a human issue and is an effort to ensure that police are able to get information following a crime in a timely manner.”

State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R9th), agreed saying anything lawmakers can do to give police the tools they need to investigate and resolves serious crimes is important.

“Anything we can do to make sure that this kind of a situation does not happen again is important,” said Durso. “Anything we can do to help police and law enforcement do their jobs more effectively and solve crimes quicker is important.”

“Anything the state can do to assist law enforcement in solving crimes is important,” said Lou Civello, S.C. PBA president. “But we also recognize, as officers sworn to uphold the Constitution, that these laws must also ensure Constitutional protections.”

Under the state measure, if passed, businesses would face fines and civil penalties if they do not release the tapes to law enforcement authorities within 24 hours.

A similar law is under review in the Suffolk County Legislature was introduced by S.C. Leg. Jason Richberg. Like the state proposal, it would require businesses to provide relevant surveillance video to police within “a reasonable time” of a request by police investigating a felony. Non-compliance would result in fines. The county law would apply only businesses in Suffolk.

Richberg said law enforcement officials told him faster access could make a major difference in the first hours of an investigation. He said some officers raised the idea of a shorter deadline, including three hours, but the current proposal sets a 24-hour limit.

Additionally, amendments to the law made at the suggestion of Suffolk Police, the District Attorney and Sheriffs offices are being added to the county measure and include a preservation requirements, the

NYS Sen. Monica Martinez outlines aspects of the proposed law at press conference.

need for written requests for the tapes, “all balanced with constitutional concerns,” said Richner.

The tapes in the CVS murder helped in the arrest and prosecution of a suspect in the case, John Pilaccio, 43 who has been charged in Cine’s death. Police said Pilaccio went into the store shortly before 7 p.m., and stabbed Cine during an attempted robbery. Cine was rushed to Good Samaritan Hospital with a chest wound and pronounced dead within an hour of the stabbing. Cine’s family said that he was working that day taking the place of another employee who wanted time off to be with his family. If convicted, Pilaccio could face life in prison without parole.

NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso speaks at the press conference. NYS Sen. Monica Martinez is at left and NYS Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow is at right.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Amityville runner wins inaugural PBA 5K fundraiser honoring fallen Nassau officer

By MIKE POLANSKY

Under sunny skies and ideal running conditions, 12-year-old Daniel Magnani of Amityville crossed the finish line first in the inaugural Amityville PBA 5K Run on May 16.

Daniel completed the 3.1-mile course in 20 minutes, 16 seconds, leading a field of 193 runners and walkers who participated in the event. The race began and ended at James A. Caples Memorial Park at the southern end of Amityville.

Paul Schmidt of Amityville placed second overall with a time of 20:33. Laura Wasson of East Rockaway was the third overall finisher and the first female competitor to cross the finish line, completing the course in 20:48 while pushing a stroller carrying her son.

Several local runners turned in strong performances, including Amityville residents Alex Miller, Misha Ankurdovych, Katie Fallot and Chelsea Riviera, who competed as part of the Amityville Orthodontics team. Mary Dunphy was the first woman to finish in the 60-69 age group, while Joseph Cardinale earned top honors in the 70-andover division.

According to Race Director Carley Catalano, the event was organized in memory of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa, who was killed in January while

Senior Correspondent

driving to work when an alleged drunk driver ran a red light and struck her vehicle. Proceeds from the race will be donated to Espinosa’s family.

Amityville PBA President Harold Miller served as master of ceremonies and introduced Mayor Michael O’Neill, who reflected on the purpose of the event.

“Patricia is smiling down on us today,” O’Neill said. “Today we honor Patricia and we honor everything the police do every day.”

Members of the Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe and Drum Band also performed during the event.

Sponsors included the Village of Amityville, the Amityville Chamber of Commerce, Eagle Scaffolding Services, Vittorio’s Italian Steak House, Powell Funeral Home, Amity Deli, DDMA, Security Chrysler, Custom Awards LI, Brazico, The Better Bagel, Al’s Auto Services and Carmelina’s Pizzeria & Gelateria, among others.

Miller said the strong turnout demonstrated the community’s support for the cause.

“Look at all the support we have, it’s amazing,” he said. “We raised a ton of money for the Espinosa family, and we hope to continue this event every year.”

Mike Polansky/Herald Left, the start of the run. At right, overall winner Daniel Magnani of Amityville gets ready to cross the finishing line.

The Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe and Drum.

Katie Fallot

Alex Miller

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call President Carolyn Dodd at (631) 3748712.

•Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3012.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

•Amityville Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. The market will be every Saturday until October 24. For more information, call (631) 264-0152.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

MONDAY, JUNE 15

•Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

•Amityville Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 6 p.m., 19 John St., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 264-0567 or email trustees@amityvillepubliclibrary.org.

•Town of Babylon Rental Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.

•Amityville School District Board of Education Regular Session: 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 565-6000.

•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Beacon Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

Heralds win three awards from Press Club of L.I.

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

Herald Community Media captured three awards at the annual Press Club of Long Island Media Awards and Long Island Journalism Hall of Fame induction dinner on June 4.

Oceanside/Island Park Herald reporter Abigail Grieco won the James Murphy Cub Reporter of the Year award, given to “emerging journalists who show strong early promise in the field.” Journalists who have worked full-time for fewer than 18 months are eligible. Grieco was an intern with the Herald in 2023, and began working full-time in October 2025.

Deputy Managing Editor Jordan Vallone and previous senior reporter Mohammad Fariq shared a second-place award in the transportation category for the story “Southern State: a road still stuck in the past,” which was part of the Herald’s 2025 series on the Southern State Parkway.

“A compelling and well-structured piece that effectively examines the longstanding dangers of the Southern State Parkway,” judges wrote. “The article succeeds in connecting historical design flaws with present-day traffic realities, clearly explaining how outdated infrastructure continues to contribute to accidents.

“Particularly strong is the integration of data, expert references, and concrete examples, such as low overpass collisions and hazardous curve segments,” the judges added. “The writing remains clear and accessible while addressing a complex safety issue. Overall, a thoughtful and informative investigation with clear public relevance and lasting value.”

Photographer Erik H. Lee earned a third-place award for a photo of the Wantagh High School baseball game.

“These awards reflect our commitment to strong local journalism and to telling the stories that matter most to Long Island communities,” Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications, said. “We are especially proud to see our emerging reporters, experienced editors and talented photographers recognized for work that informs the public and has a lasting impact.”

Four veterans of Long Island journalism were inducted into the PCLI’s Hall of Fame: Photojournalist Michael DelGiudice, radio reporter Sophia Hall, former Newsday editor Anthony E. Insolia, and Shirley E. Perelman, who covered many major stories for Newsday, from the Long Island garbage barge to the trial of O.J. Simpson.

For more information on the press club, go to PCLI.org.

LIRR expands service for golf’s U.S. Open

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

The 126th U.S. Open Championship, which begins next week, is being played at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club — known as one of the “cathedrals” of golf — for the first time since 2018.

Eric Steimer, senior director of U.S. Championships at the United States Golf Association, said the USGA’s transportation strategy is intended to reduce congestion around the site while providing multiple travel options for fans attending the tournament.

The plan, developed in collaboration with the Long Island Rail Road, Suffolk County and New York state officials, will be in effect from June 15, three days before the tournament starts, until June 21, the day it ends.

Steimer said that the 15-person team that planned transportation operations recognized early that travel logistics would be one of the event’s biggest challenges. “Any time we’re out here in eastern Long Island at Shinnecock Hills, transportation is a challenge,” Steimer said. “We’re doing a lot of different things to really try to mitigate that.”

As it did eight years ago, the LIRR’s Montauk Branch will provide transportation to and from the tournament. A temporary station will be constructed in Tuckahoe, across from Shinnecock Hills, on the south side of County Road

said. “Anyone that looks at Calverton on a map is going to see that it’s pretty far away from Shinnecock Hills, but at the same time it is very accessible for anyone that’s coming from points west or coming along the Long Island Expressway.”

For residents of Southampton, Sag Harbor, Easthampton and neighboring communities, Steimer recommended using a rideshare program operating from Stony Brook Southampton’s campus.

Hamton Jitney will operate shuttle service for spectators traveling from Montauk, Amagansett, Sag Harbor, Bridgehampton, Water Mill and Southampton. Pickups and drop-offs will be located near Admission Gate 2 on the Stony Brook campus.

STEPPING OUT

39, adjacent to Stony Brook University’s Southampton campus. A temporary pedestrian bridge will span the roadway.

From June 15 to 17, the LIRR plans to operate 10 inbound trains and dozens of outbound trains, more than double the service it provided in 2018. During the championship rounds, June 18 to 21, 12 inbound trains and 13 outbound trains are scheduled to operate.

“The Long Island Rail Road is ready,” its president, Rob Free, stated in a news release. “Avoid the traffic and use our

exceptionally reliable service to and from Shinnecock Hills for all the golf action. Extra staff will also be on hand at Southampton to help customers throughout the championship for a great customer experience.”

Steimer explained that this year’s transportation differs from 2018 because satellite parking operations have moved from Gabreski Airport to Calverton Executive Airpark.

“We will have complimentary parking and complimentary shuttle buses to and from the championship,” Steimer

Fans traveling from New York City will have the option of using Blade helicopter service from June 18 to 21, with return flights scheduled each evening after play ends.

Steimer urged commuters not to arrange drop-offs on County Road 39, and said there would be increased police presence at intersections around the golf course.

“This is a plan that’s been carefully articulated with local experts to be able to implement this plan,” he said. “Now is the time to bring it to life.”

For more information on train service, go to MTA.INFO/document/209406.

‘Good times never seemed so good…’ Neil Diamond’s tunes are always in style

By Karen Bloom

For those who can’t get enough of Neil Diamond, perhaps the next best thing to seeing him perform, is when Robert Neary takes on legendary singer-songwriter’s persona.

retiring due to Parkinson’s, set out to create the best Neil Diamond tribute I could.”

And audiences certainly agree.

• Sunday, June 14, 3 p.m.

The multi-hyphenate performer brings his acclaimed show, ”So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience,” to Tilles Center, on Sunday, featuring his band and a special “hometown” guest performance.

The East Meadow High School Chamber Choir concludes the concert with a six-song ﬁnale, under the direction of Chorus Director Samantha Schick.

The collaboration is especially meaningful, as Neary is an alumnus of East Meadow High School, and the production’s trumpet player, Stephen Engle, formerly served as head of the music department at the school.

The stage, TV and ﬁlm star has created an acclaimed tribute experience. The show celebrates the timeless songs and storytelling of Neil Diamond, with the beloved hits from Diamond’s extensive catalogincluding “Sweet Caroline,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “America, ,” and many more. Known for his remarkable vocals, Neary has earned praise for delivering a heartfelt and high-energy tribute to one of America’s most iconic entertainers. The concert was also ﬁlmed as a documentary feature that is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, where it continues to receive rave reviews from audiences nationwide.

With decades in the entertainment industry, Neary has starred in three Broadway lead roles and appeared in more than 60 major television and ﬁlm guest-starring roles. He has also built a worldwide social media following of more than half a million fans. Neary created “So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience” in 2019 and, alongside New York-based band The Mystic, developed the show into the nationwide hit it is today. The production continues to sell out venues across the United States and is now set to expand internationally.

“I’ve always been a fan,” says Neary, of Diamond. “I even learned how to play the piano to Hello Again and knew could emulate his voice since high school. was an actor for 40 years, but in 2018, the business for me, started to slow down. After hearing he was

• Tickets available at tillescenter.org or ticketmaster.com or (516) 299-3100

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

“We always hope that for the two hours they come to our show, they [audiences] are able to forget about the craziness going on in the world, and relive the happy moments with the Neil Diamond’s iconic music.

People relate to his music and so many favorites bring so many people back to those beautiful days,” Neary continues.

Part of the show’s enduring appeal is Neary’s commitment to honoring Diamond’s catalog while keeping the performance dynamic and engaging for both new and returning audiences.

“I went right to his 50th anniversary hits album and compared each song to the success of each one and chart history. We now touch on 28 of them in a full show. We do various medleys that are able to incorporate more songs and with the fabulous multimedia, it really brings the songs to life. also go into the audience for Sweet Caroline and high ﬁve and hug on as many people as can,” Neary adds.

Over the years, the production has evolved into a full-scale theatrical concert experience.

“I set out to do exactly what it has become. So having it all continue to fall into place, has been all part of the plan. We continue to evolve in our production. Its started with eight members on stage and 22 songs. We now have amazing background singers, a violinist and a full multimedia presentation that is amazing. We also have included a full overture highlighting Neil’s career through the decades.”

His band, The Mystic, certainly adds to the experience.

“I am beyond blessed to have this amazing band,” Neary says, enthusiastically. “I met them playing at a huge Halloween party and asked if they would like to join me in this venture and they said, yes.

To have this band and the comradery that they possess, having been together for 30 years, is just icing on the cake. We have such a great time on stage as well as touring together and it shows. Countless accolades say how amazingly tight the band is and that we all look like we are having fun.”

One could say that that that this performance’s special closing is the icing on the cake for Neary.

“I’m incredibly proud to return home and share this experience with students from East Meadow High School. Music education played such an important role in my life, and having these talented young performers join us for the ﬁnale makes this performance especially meaningful. It’s going to be a really memorable afternoon,” he continues.

“I’ve always wanted to add a choir, and with this Tilles show, being as big as it is, I ﬁgured now’s the time to make it happen. My best friend from junior high Stephen Engle, suggested them and immediately said, “Of course!”

Neary, who now resides in Melville after leaving East Meadow all those years ago to pursue his dreams in L.A., is delighted to be back on his home turf, especially reconnecting with his high school.

“It feels wonderful. So humbling and so blessed to be back where was when my career was only a dream away. The ﬁrst time we played Eisenhower Park, was very emotional and now to play the Tilles Center with the EMHS choir, on such a grander scale, is even more unbelievable.”

Robert Neary enthusiastically gets his audiences involved in this celebration of the singersongwriter’s enduring catalog of hits.

or paramountny.com.

Conversations in art

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts an engaging conversation with curator and collections expert Lauren Brincat, whose work and expertise helped shape the current exhibition “250 Years of Art on Long Island.” Brincat, Chief Curator and Director of Collections at Preservation Long Island — a key lending partner to the exhibit — offers an in-depth exploration of the show’s themes, giving visitors a closer look at the wide-ranging artworks and historical objects on view. Her talk illuminates how the exhibit brings together painting and decorative arts to trace the evolution of Long Island’s artistic identity across the centuries. She also discusses the collaborative research and curatorial process behind the exhibition, highlighting how artists, collectors and communities have contributed to shaping and preserving the region’s visual legacy.

Sunday, June 14, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. Register at nassaumuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337.

USGA/Fred Vuich

With the 126th U.S. Open set to tee off at Shinnecock Hills, the USGA and transportation companies like the LIRR

Photos courtesy Robert Neary