Grace Ham, from left, Holly DeGiglio and Claire Arnoff all earned the Girl Scouts’ Gold Award for their projects and were recognized at The Brookside Building on June 26.
Three girl scouts strike ‘Gold’ Arnoff, DeGiglio, Ham honored at awards ceremony
By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com
Claire Arnoff, Holly DeGiglio, and Grace Ham became the 95th, 96th, and 97th girls to win the prestigious Gold Award with the Bellmore Girl Scouts Service Unit since the organization began recording the recipients in 1988 and all three were honored during a ceremony at The Brookside Building in North Merrick on June 26.
Arnott and DeGiglio are members of Troop 947, while Ham is an independent girl scout.
The Girl Scout Gold Award symbolizes outstanding accomplishments in the areas of leadership, community service, career planning, and personal development. To earn the award, candidates must be in high school and identify an issue in the community or the world, learn about it through research and trusted sources, form a team by identifying experts and people in the community who could help, determining the
root cause of an issue and formulate a plan on how it could be solved. They must submit a project proposal for the Girl Scout council to approve, lead a team and implement a plan, and reflect on the change that was created in the community while sharing that story and inspiring others to make a difference.
After being presented by the service unit volunteer co-manager and host Liz Steinert, each girl stood at the podium to talk about their inspirations for their projects.
Claire Arnoff: Pen Pal Program
Arnoff, who just completed her junior year at Wellington C. Mepham High School, wanted to improve communication and connection between the different elementary schools in the North Bellmore district. She lamented that two in particular – Shore Road and Martin Avenue – often felt separated from the other schools because of their class size and location. And since most students at
Hockey dream put on hold
War grounds Goldman until 2026
By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com
Chase Goldman was wrapping up a meeting June 13 with his United States ice hockey teammates in preparation for the upcoming Maccabi Games in Israel when he received a disturbing news flash on his phone.
It said that Israel carried out strikes on Iran just hours earlier, and the news quickly spread around the room. Questions were suddenly asked about the players’ safety, if the games would go on as planned and, if so, would it be wise to even travel there.
athletic event took a back seat to a war that personally affected him and his family.
“It took a piece out of me because not only did it ease down from Oct. 7, but it kind of kicked back up and it was disappointing that both countries couldn’t come to peace,” Goldman said. “More people are getting hurt and dying, and many civilians as well, so it really impacted me very much.”
am confident I will be in Israel next year playing for Team
USA.
CHASe
GoldmAN
Three days later, event officials decided to postpone the Games until the summer of 2026.
Because of his Jewish heritage, Goldman, who just completed his junior year at John F. Kennedy High School, was relieved that he wasn’t in Israel already when the strikes happened and was understandably disappointed about having to wait a year to represent his country. But unfortunately, an
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups launched a largescale attack from the Gaza Strip towards Israel resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people and 251 abductions. Some captives reportedly remain there today. It is the first invasion of that territory since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.
A little over a year ago, Goldman was in New Jersey trying out for the Boys Under 18 American team. He said his confidence “drained” when he first saw the 80-90-person tryout list and thought his chances of making the team were minimal
ConTinueD on pAGe 19
Brittany Krilov/Herald Photos
News brief
Ms. Naletilic’s class at Fayette School
In last month’s Merrick K-Kids supplement, The Herald and the North Merrick Union Free School District regrettably omitted Ms. Naletilic’s class at Harold D. Fayette School. Her students with their desired occupations are Rory and Simon, (bus drivers) Veronica (athlete), Isaac (waiter), and Daniel (zookeeper). Ms. Naletilic was assisted in the classroom by special education aides Mrs. Betancourt, Mrs. Darnaud, Ms. Grange, Mrs. Shah, and Mr. Edom, and teacher assistant Ms. Eisel.
Hats off to Class of ‘25 Mepham graduates
The following names of Wellington C. Mepham High School graduates were not published in the Bellmore Herald’s 2025 Graduation Section, released in the June 26 addition: Andrew M. Stasio, Hannah Steinert, Mia Stellmann, Lazarus Stephanides, Joseph P. Stribula, Helen Strite, Samantha Sullivan, Xavier Sutherland, Christian I. Trilla, Joshua Trainor, Brandon Tuohey, Christopher Tzimas, Peter Udilovich, Hailey Grace Valentin, Sofia M. Valladares, Jordan Ava Vaughan, Adalid Ventura Santos, Frances Natalia Ventura Santos, Jennifer R. Venneri, Katherine Gabriella Villa, Aniuska Virruso, Crystal Viruet, Camryn A. Volpe, Alessandro Walaitis, Maximus Walker, Rebecca Weidemann, Aubree J. Wessel, Christopher F. White, Milan Madison White, Lilly A. Whittak-
er, Cordell Williams, Lillian S. Williamson, AriElla Wolfstein, Brianna L. Wolin, Thomas S. Youssef, Daniel Yoncee, Luke Yepez, Faizan Zahid, Danya Zaidi, Thomas Zappa, Samantha Zebersky, Ryan Zhang, Sophia Ting Zheng, Klarisa Zhou, Angela Zhu.
For the rest of the graduation section, visit LIHerald.com/Bellmore.
Tim Baker/Herald photo
—Jordan Vallone
Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Students at Wellington C. Mepham High School graduated on June 8.
Piccolo’s celebrates 45 years of service
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
What keeps customers coming back to Piccolo’s for 45 years? Is it the food, the price, or the convenience? According to longtime customer Tom Grillea, it is all of those things plus one more ingredient: community.
“If it’s that many years and you’re still in business, there’s only one way that happens,” he said. “It’s good food, customer service and that you care about your customers, and they definitely know how to do it.”
Grillea has been a loyal patron of Piccolo’s for 25 years. When he enters, Piccolo’s team of chefs and servers know to cook up veal cutlet milanese for him and chicken michaelangelo for his wife. He has become personal friends with the store’s owner, Tommy Valenti.
“Tommy and the staff… they take care of you,” he said. “It doesn’t feel like you’re in a restaurant. Feels like you’re almost part of the family.”
With his own family, Grillea likes to feature Piccolo’s at every celebration he can manage — in addition to Friday night dinners.
“If something good is happening, we’re going to go back there,” he said. “No doubt we’ll be going back.”
When asked why he thinks Piccolo’s is so successful, Valenti considered his options.
“Obviously the food’s really good — otherwise we wouldn’t be here for 45 years,” he said.
Valenti succeeds his father of the same name, helming a restaurant that is a family business from the ground up.
“The business was started by my father and his brothers designed it,” Valenti said. “They built the place.”
As the owner of Piccolo’s, Valenti has been able to thrive while supporting his
local community.
“Piccolo put my kids through college, Piccolo gave me a chance to listen,” he said. “I get to help so many people from Piccolo, whether it’s gift baskets, gift cards, food fundraisers, discounts — I truly feel like a humanitarian.”
On a personal level, running the restaurant allowed Valenti to connect with familiar faces around town. Many patrons stepped up during the restau-
rant’s time of need, and he does not hesitate to repay that loyalty.
“You can’t take them for granted,” he said. “You want to talk to them. You want to know what’s going on. For the people who need a discount, the people who need a little break, you gotta be receptive.”
The restaurant was hit hard during the Covid-19 pandemic, when foot traffic to stores dropped dramatically. Even now, the scars are still healing for local businesses.
“The shopping center is definitely not what it used to be,” Valenti said. “We never delivered up until Covid. Now most people go to our website to make reservations, to place orders, which helps a lot.”
Piccolo’s survived the drought with the support of its customers and its readiness to change, as it always has.
“We were one of the first to have a restaurant that had no smoking,” Valenti said. “We were basically the first restaurant to have trans fat free oils.
“You try to stay ahead of the curve,” he continued. “The only way to survive in this business is you constantly have to be in motion. If you stand still, there’s really only one place to go, and that’s down.”
Valenti expressed his gratitude to the regulars and the staff who have kept Piccolo’s alive and strong, and hopefully for many years to come.
“We wouldn’t be here if they weren’t here,” he said.
‘Kin’ marks Hofstra grad’s debut at LIIFE
By JACK SCHWED Intern
Amid the woods of Straatsburg, cigarette smoke trails from the balcony of a remote home as Kendra peers into the distance, longing to reunite with her missing son, Judah. However, as she looks down, she spots him sprawled out on the front lawn. She rushes to inspect him: his right hand is coarse and blackened with beastlike claws protruding from each finger. His condition worsens by the day. She looks past his grotesque transformation, but to his father, he is nothing but a monster.
This is “Kin,” a short thriller film directed, written and produced by Cameron Cavé, a recent Hofstra graduate whose film will be featured in the upcoming 2025 Long Island International Film Expo at Bellmore Movies and Showplace on July 11 at 11 a.m. In many ways, Judah is a representation of Cavé himself. Like Kendra, his mother shows unwavering support for him.
“When I said I wanted to do film, she said ‘You’re gonna be at the Oscars,” he said. “I have a feeling no matter what path I choose, she will accept it anyway she can.”
Through “Kin,” he puts a spotlight on motherly love, a flame that never burns out, even when their child undergoes drastic changes. This message is part of a much larger picture that Cavé wants to
continue exploring: the importance of being considerate, as many vilify those they do not understand.
“We are all products of our own environment (to some) capacity,” he said. “Everyone, whether they’re the protagonist or antagonist, has their own story.”
Creativity has been passed down in the Cavé family from one generation to the next. It all began in Jérémie, Haiti, where Syto Cavé wrote short stories, poems, plays and songs, making a name for himself in Haitian literature and theater. He passed down the torch to his son, Alan Cavé, a songwriter regarded as the “King of Kompa Love” by the Haitian community for his blend of modern dance music and poetic ballads. Cameron Cavé said that growing up under his father inspired him to pursue a creative career path that would “fulfill that legacy.”
His passion for film, however, came from his mother. He sat beside her, watching worlds far beyond our reality come to life on his TV screen. As clashing lightsabers sparked, so did his love for science fiction; but, as he grew older, he began to notice the messages underlying these fantastical spectacles. Cavé realized that he, too, carried a message he wanted to convey.
When he first arrived at Hofstra University to pursue a degree in film, he felt utterly lost. It seemed as if everybody around him already knew the ins and outs of filmmaking. Meanwhile, his only
experience at this point had been his high school’s media club. As classmates threw around technical terms, he was overcome with self-doubt. That was until he got the opportunity to step onto a film set and bring his visions to life.
“I think every person goes through a phase where they have an interpretation of what the film industry is and what it asks for, he said. “But, once you’re actually doing it, (that) is when you really sit down and understand (it).”
When it came time to develop his senior thesis film, he had all the knowledge needed to write, direct and produce a movie, but something was still missing: his voice, his message for the world. He penned several drafts but struggled to determine which one resonated with him the most.
Throughout middle school and high school, his classmates would make assumptions about their peers without considering that their story might be just as complex as their own. This, Cavé realized, is what he wanted to convey through his films, and “Kin” was the first piece to the puzzle.
While in the editing phase of the film, the school’s annual film festival was approaching, but his self-doubt persisted. His professor, Bill Jennings, saw his potential and encouraged him to submit it. Cavé said he had doubts about putting his work out there, but he decided to take a step outside his comfort zone and
doesn’t regret doing so.
In 2022, Cavé met Dean Dusharme, a fellow Hofstra film student who was graduating that year. Over the next few years, they would work alongside each other until Dusharme was eventually chosen as the Director of Photography for “Kin.” His own senior thesis film, “Spackle,” was submitted to the 2023 Long Island International Film Expo, which he said allowed him to share his movie with a large audience.
“It’s very hard as an independent filmmaker to get eyes on your film, and film festivals are probably the only way to do that,” he said.
Dusharme recognized Cavé’s potential as a filmmaker: his ability to create compelling characters, his ambition and his eagerness for collaboration. After his own positive experience at the festival, Dusharme strongly encouraged him to submit his film.
Cavé overcame his doubts, took his advice and now his film has been selected.
“Don’t ever second-guess yourself,” Cavé said. “People are going to judge your work or judge you as a writer or storyteller. You just gotta do it.”
The Long Island International Film Expo will feature five days of films, panels and other forms of entertainment, opening on July 9. For more on what’s in store, and additional information on films like Cavé’s, visit LongIslandFilm.com.
Herald File Photo
Piccolo’s has been a staple on Sunrise Highway in Bellmore for the past 45 years.
News brief
NCPD rescues stranded jet skier on marsh
ULTIMATE TICKETS
Nassau County Police rescued a jet skier on June 25 after she was stranded on a marsh for several hours near the False Channel in Merrick.
SWEEPSTAKES
One lucky member of the audience will
WIN
4 TICKETS to
watch
Long Island Ducks vs Hagerstown Flying Boxcars at Fairfield Properties Ballpark.
Sunday, August 17 at 5:05 p.m.
Contest ends August 10th midnight with the winner chosen on August 11th
Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.
Scan this QR code https://www.liherald.com/mets-tickets-contest.html?#//
Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
Scientific studies show that we have a “set point” that determines our happiness in life. Once we get accustomed to a new situation we inevitably return to our general state of happiness. However, only about 50% of our happiness is determined by “set point.” The other half is determined by our attitudes and actions, over which we have a great deal of control. According to psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, and affirmed by the Dalai Lama, “the three factors that seem to have the greatest influence on increasing our happiness are our ability to reframe our situation more positively, our ability to experience gratitude, and our choice to be kind and generous.
“The Archbishop says that “ultimately our greatest joy is when we seek to do good for others… we are wired to be caring for the other and generous to one another.” He refers to the African concept of Ubuntu “ A person is a person through other persons.
“The goal is not just to create joy for
ourselves but, as the Archbishop phrased it “To be a reservoir of joy, an oasis of peace, a pool of serenity that can ripple out to all those around you.” Joy, love, compassion and generosity are all contagious.
Concerning forgiveness, while it may be necessary to counter wrong action, you may choose not to develop anger and hatred towards the actor — not losing sight of the humanity of the person.
Forgiveness frees us from the past. Without it, we remain tethered to the person who harmed us. Until we can forgive them, they hold the keys to our happiness and remain our jailor, Tutu explains. When we forgive, we take back control of our own fate and feelings, we become our own liberator. Studies show that remembering grudges stimulates all of our stress responses while empathizing with our offenders and imagining forgiving them returns the stress responses to normal. Forgiveness, then, is essential to our own health and well-being.
According to police, the department’s aviation unit received a call around 12:11 p.m. and dispatched a rescue helicopter. The helicopter landed on the marsh and a tactical flight office walked to the unidentified 60-year-old jet skier and assisted her through the mud back to the helicopter.
The female suffered severe dehydration and was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation.
It was the second Merrick water rescue in nearly two weeks for Nassau police, who were also called to assist two unidentified males after their personal crafts ran aground on June 13.
That afternoon, a 35-year-old male was able to leave his machine and walk to safety, but his 15-year-old companion was unable to navigate the marsh and had to remain on his water craft. As the tide receded, the conditions became worse, which prompted a call to marine bureau officers.
A helicopter was dispatched to assist the two marine units, who had
to don immersion suits to trek through the marsh. They were able to locate the teenager and physically assisted him to safety. He was transported back to the Wantagh Park Marina and taken to an area hospital for evaluation.
— Brian Kacharaba
PamCakes officially opens in Bellmore
The Bellmore Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of PamCakes with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 20. The breakfast nook and cakery serves up delicious treats such as sandwiches, coffee, customized baked goods, party platters, gift boxes or bouquets, cookies, and cakes. The shop is located at 214 Pettit Ave. in Bellmore.
Courtesy
Rob Cummings
Courtesy NCPD
Nassau County police had to perform two marsh rescues in Merrick last month.
HERALD SPORTS
A salute to 2024-25 sports champions
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
It was a banner season for many high school athletic programs in the Herald’s coverage area. Listed are the Top 20 team accomplishments, in chronological order.
1. Oceanside girls soccer
With one overtime in the books and penalty kicks looming in the Nov. 4 Nassau Class AAA girls’ soccer championship game, Oceanside’s Kaylin Harrington had one thing in mind when she settled a pass from Chloe Polito about 20 yards from the Massapequa net. “My first instinct was to shoot,” Harrington said. “I knew we were getting close to PKs and I had a little space, so I just shot it.” It turned out to be the shot heard ‘round Oceanside. Harrington’s goal 5:35 into the second 15-minute sudden victory OT period gave the Sailors a 2-1 win over the three-time defending champion Chiefs and their first county title since 1978.
2. Wantagh girls soccer
Wantagh entered the Nassau Class A girls’ soccer playoffs riding a five-game winning streak and bursting with confidence. And on Nov. 7, the Warriors made history by capturing their firstever county championship with a 1-0 victory over top-seeded North Shore, which defeated them twice during the regular season.Kayla Mannix continued a storybook postseason by netting the lone goal of the night in the 65th minute off a feed from Shannon Udell. Goalkeeper Gabriella Astaiza, who missed a large portion of the season with an injury, made five saves to shut out a talented Vikings team that scored six goals against Wantagh in two previous meetings.
3. Mepham girls volleyball
Mepham’s girls’ volleyball made history Nov. 11. It took four sets for the Pirates to secure the Nassau Class AA championship in a revenge-match rematch of last year’s county title game against Long Beach, winning 25-21, 17-25, 25-17, 25-20. “They just came together and played incredibly, supporting each other, never got down, had the momentum most of the game; blocking was outrageous, serve receive was best I’ve seen all year,” Mepham coach Tom Wildeman said. Captains Sam Raikos (18 kills and 10 digs) and Makayla Daube (19 assists and 6 kills) led the way for the Pirates, who captured their first-ever county crown.
4. South Side girls volleyball
Wantagh entered the Nassau Class A girls’ volleyball championship stage rid-
ing a 10-match win streak dating back to an Oct. 7 five-set victory over South Side, which captured its first seven matches and eight more since. So something had to give with the county title on the line Nov. 11 as the top two seeds went to battle before a jam-packed crowd at East Meadow. However, the matchup didn’t live up to the hype and unlike both regular-season meetings failed to go the full five sets. Cate Cammalleri (18 kills) and Abby Magness (13) and Amy Berenbroick (37 assists) led No. 1 South Side to a convincing 25-18, 25-19, 25-10 victory over No. 2 Wantagh. It marked the Cyclones’ first county crown since 2019.
5. Massapequa boys volleyball
Coach Elissa DiSalvo didn’t exactly have a royal flush in-hand with the Massapequa boys’ volleyball roster this year: a good chunk of the 2023 team graduated, multiple positions needed to be changed and the influx of new players meant they had to be brought up to speed. It was only a matter of time before the Chiefs starting jelling together, with practices or games Monday-Saturday, followed by Sunday brunches. It was all by design, because DiSalvo knew that chemistry would be make or break. It all paid off Nov. 12 when Massapequa defeated pesky East Meadow in four sets to capture the Nassau County Division I title.
6. Carey football
There was nothing fake about Carey’s dominant run to the Nassau Conference II football championship. Well, actually, there was. Deadlocked with Mepham early in the second half of the Nov. 22 title game, the Seahawks pulled a fake punt on fourth-and-6 from their own 47 that saw Billy Koutsoumbaris gain 29 yards. Five plays later, Justin DePietro scored his second of three touchdowns and Carey eventually pulled away for a 28-7 victory and its first county championship since 2014. The Seahawks went on to complete a perfect 12-0 season with a victory over Half Hollow Hills East in the LIC.
7. Wantagh football
A 13-yard run from Dylan Martini on the first play from scrimmage was a precursor for Wantagh’s explosive ground game in the Nassau County Conference IV football championship Nov. 22. Led by 232 yards rushing from Martini and 108 by John Gendels, the Warriors rolled to a 48-21 win over Plainedge for the program’s first county crown since the spring of 2021. The convincing victory also avenged the only regular season loss for Wantagh, which dropped a 33-27 overtime thriller to the Red Devils Oct. 10.
8. Massapequa football
Tyler Villalta called it a “just in case” play, one practiced about three times a week for three weeks but never used in a game. And fourth down in overtime of the Nassau Conference I football championship game with the season on the line proved to be the best time to debut that for Massapequa. The call came from Chiefs’ offensive coordinator Mike Ambury, and Villalta, the star running back, put it into motion. Operating out of a Wildcat set, which debuted in the semifinals against Oceanside last week, Villalta rolled left and connected with quarterback-turned-wide receiver Joey Diesso for a 17-yard touchdown. Chris Bascetta kicked the extra point to seal Massapequa’s thrilling 35-34 win over Farmingdale Nov. 23. The Chiefs went on to beat William Floyd for the L.I. crown.
9. Wantagh girls basketball
Trailing Lynbrook by a point in the waning moments of the Nassau Class A girls’ basketball championship game March 10, Wantagh’s designed play off a
timeout resulted in a good look but no basket. But in one fell swoop, Kayla Mannix not only saved the ball from landing out of bounds but found Riley Forthofer open in the paint. Forthofer banked in a layup with 7.7 seconds remaining to give Wantagh a thrilling 44-43 victory over top-seeded Lynbrook. Juliana Cerasi had 12 points and freshmen Isabelle Ferraro (10) and Makayla McNeil combined for 19 as second-seeded Wantagh avenged a pair of regularseason defeats to the Owls and captured its first county title since the 2005-06 campaign.
10. Baldwin boys basketball
On the heels of winning a fifth straight Nassau County boys’ basketball title, as the No. 5 seed in the tournament no loess, Baldwin was determined to end a two-game drought in the Long Island championship stage. The Bruins did just that March 11 against a familiar foe.
Mical Saint Jean scored a career-high 19 points, point guard Ethan Sainsbury
Media Origin Inc./Herald
Christian Todaro, left, and the Carey Seahawks had an undefeated football season.
Local teams enjoy historic title seasons
added a career-high 17 and dished out 10 assists, Chase Timberlake chipped in 12 with 8 steals, Vaughdrea Johnson had 11 points and 11 rebounds, and Gabe Phillips ripped down 16 boards as Baldwin never trailed in its 75-56 victory over Amityville in the AA LIC.
11. Baldwin girls basketball
The ultimate goal of Baldwin’s girls’ basketball team was made clear on the opening day of practice Nov. 17 and that was to win the final game of the season. On the morning of March 23 at Hudson Valley Community College in upstate Troy, the Bruins turned a dream into reality with a thrilling 50-48 roller coaster victory over Aquinas Institute for the New York State Class AA title. Monique Echols scored the game’s final five points, including the go-ahead layup off a bounce pass from Payton Dulin with 1:35 remaining. It was Baldwin’s first state championship in seven years and third all-time.
12. Massapequa girls lacrosse
Paige Garguilo scored twice in the fourth quarter and came up with a critical interception to help topseeded Massapequa defeat No. 2 Port Washington, 11-9, and capture a fifth straight girls’ lacrosse county title May 27. Garguilo, who scored five times, wasn’t the only clutch player for the Chiefs. In the waning seconds of the third quarter, Port Washington’s Catherine Karman beat the buzzer with a low shot on frame. But Massapequa goalie Emily Fitzgerald made the massive save, one of seven for the freshman. Isabella Grosso had a hat trick. Also playing a pivotal role was Reilly Cereghino, who held Violet Ortenzi, who scored 35 goals heading into the final, without a goal.
13.
Plainedge flag football
For a second straight season, the Plainedge and East Rockaway girls’ flag football teams met with a Nassau County title on the line. And it was Plainedge
repeating last year’s championship accomplishment in rainy conditions May 28 as quarterback Gianna Ponticello and receiver Amanda Martone hooked up for a touchdown in each half and the defense stood tall to lead the Red Devils over the Rocks, 12-0, in the Conference C final. Kate Franks (nine flag pulls), Sarah Abdul-Rassoul (eight) and Jennifer Larwood were relentless on defense, and Rebecca Reiter sealed the deal with an interception.
14. South Side girls lacrosse
After heartbreaking semifinal playoff defeats in each of the past three seasons including two by one goal, South Side’s girls’ lacrosse team wasn’t satisfied with just reaching the championship stage this spring.
The top-seeded Cyclones made the most of their opportunity and also program history in a driving rainstorm May 28, knocking off defending Nassau Class C champion Wantagh, 14-8, for their first-ever county title. Bobbie Creo exploded for five goals, Charlotte Rathjen had three goals and two assists, Sienna Connolly had three goals and Skye Korten added a pair to back the goaltending of Tara Cody.
15. Massapequa boys lacrosse
The flame was ignited for Michael Jannotte two years ago following a loss to Port Washington in the Nassau Class A boys’ lacrosse semifinals.
It was a slow burn for the Massapequa goalie. And on May 31, on the same field, the senior got his revenge, helping lead the top-seeded Chiefs to a 9-7 win over Port Washington in the Nassau Class A final. The Stevens Tech commit, who made 14 saves in a 9-7 semifinal win over Syosset, remained hot in the county final. He made five of his eight saves in the fourth quarter to help secure the Chiefs’ 12th county championship and first since 2019. Nolan Wieczorek had two goals and one assist, eighth-grader Jake Byrnes had a pair of goals, Braden Tucker and Sean Durnin had a goal and an assist each.
16. Wantagh baseball
Wantagh pitcher Dominick Cusamano entered the June 1 winner-take-all Nassau Class A baseball finals Game 3 against Seaford determined to not have it be the last time he would take the mound in his high school career. Cusamano, following strong performances from teammates Christian Danzilo and Gavin Diegnan, delivered under the brought lights tossing 6 1/3 innings with five strikeouts to propel top-seeded Wantagh to a 6-1 win for its first county title since 2018. The bats gave Cusamano all the run support he needed in the second inning starting with Frank McNally drawing a bases loaded walk that scored Ryan Tullo. The Warriors extended the lead when Cole Spinelli and Michael Avitabile scored on an error from a hard grounder off the bat of Cusumano.
17. Massapequa baseball
After a heartbreaking loss to start its best-of-three Nassau Class AAA championship baseball series with Farmingdale, Massapequa went on to dominate the final two games and re-claim bragging rights between the crosstown rivals. Jack Scannapieco tossed five scoreless innings and Mikey Smar had a clutch five RBIs in three at-bats with the bases loaded as the second-seeded Chiefs knocked the top-seeded Dalers off their throne with a winner-take-all 12-0 triumph June 1. Massapequa went on to defeat Connetquot for the L.I. crown, 7-0, a week later behind the battery of
Derrick Dingle/Herald photos glen Cove’s battery mates, pitcher Brianna Simmons, left, and catcher isabella damiano, embraced after the softball team’s first title in 40 years.
senior southpaw pitcher Thomas Harding and junior catcher Anthony DiNello.
18. Glen Cove softball
With its season hanging in the balance, trailing MacArthur by one run through six innings of the decisive third game of the Nassau Class AA softball championship series June 2, Glen Cove produced a rally for the history books. The Big Red scored twice in the top of the seventh and pitcher Brooke Simmons stranded the potential tying run on third base in the bottom of the frame for a 2-1 victory and the program’s first county title in 40 years. Siena Scagliola doubled home Mia Lupinski with the eventual championship-winning run. Lupinski singled home Sommons with the tying run.
19. Wantagh boys lacrosse
The Wantagh boys’ lacrosse team made the spectacular look routine. For a second consecutive championship game, the Warriors rallied from a significant deficit to earn a dramatic win, coming back from five goals down to defeat Kings Park 16-15 in the Long Island Class C final June 4. Wantagh, which erased a four-goal deficit in an 11-10 overtime win over South Side in the county final May 31 on a Luke Martini goal, saw Devin Paccione, Dylan Martini, Carter Loughman and Joe Nicholson star in the LIC.
20. Massapequa softball
The Long Island Class AAA softball championship between Massapequa and Riverhead June 6 did not disappoint. There was no shortage of excellent pitching, clutch defensive plays, and some timely hitting with the title on the line. In a game that went to extra innings, Massapequa put together a couple of two-out hits in the bottom of the eighth, and with the winning run at third base in the form of Sienna Perino, who tripled, Annalisa Kohn slapped a base hit to walk it off, giving the Chiefs a thrilling 2-1 victory.
FRoM PReViouS Page
Wantagh’s girls’ basketball team won a thrilling nassau Class a title game over Lynbrook with a basket in the closing seconds.
3,
New medical facility offers range of care
Mount Sinai South Nassau set to begin opening $70 million Wantagh ambulatory center this month
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Nearly a decade after Mount Sinai South Nassau purchased property in Wantagh, a new multi-specialty medical care facility is set to open this month, bringing expanded access to health services for Long Islanders.
The 63,000-square-foot, four-story facility, at 2020 Wantagh Ave., will offer specialty services including infusion, cardiology, women’s health, digestive health and orthopedics. The building, a $70 million investment by Mount Sinai South Nassau — a nonprofit teaching hospital in Oceanside with regional facilities across Long Island — is expected to serve roughly 1,200 to 1,500 patients a day, according to hospital officials.
The medical director will be Dr. Sunil George, who served as associate medical director at Mount Sinai’s location in Greenlawn, in Suffolk County.
Dr. Adhi Sharma, president and CEO of Mount Sinai South Nassau, said the facility will provide comprehensive and collaborative care, making it possible for patients to receive all the services they need under one roof while enabling physicians to work closely together.
“This space is a healing space, a welcoming space, a warm space for patients to come, oftentimes at a point of despair in their care journey,” Dr. Sharma said during a preview tour of the facility on June 25. “So, hopefully, they’ll feel the love and energy that was put into this space by our architects and designers.”
The hospital’s board of directors purchased the property in 2016, intending to convert an office building into a stateof-the-art medical facility. Mount Sinai addressed concerns about parking and traffic before finally receiving zoning approval from the Town of Hempstead in 2022.
Joseph Fennessy, a hospital board member and a Wantagh resident, said the board recognized the need for the facility. The vision, he said, was to replicate the level of care found in Manhattan hospitals while offering Long Island residents shorter commutes.
“We have a magnificent, beautiful facility,” Fennessy said. “Great specialties are going to be in here. Lots of people are going to be able to access great care.”
The facility features more than 70 patient consultation and examination rooms, as well as a hospital-grade air-filtration system to maintain a hygienic environment.
The fourth floor houses the infusion center for chemotherapy, along with labs for blood tests and a pharmacy. The infusion rooms are open spaces — by design, according to Kenneth Long, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Mount Sinai Health System.
“Patients don’t like to be isolated — they don’t want to be in a room by themselves.” Long said. “So they actually,
functionally, form their own support group for each other as they come in, because they often come in a couple times a week over some cadence of time, and they get to know each other.”
According to Long, 22 percent of Mount Sinai’s infusion patients come from east of the Wantagh facility. It will be Mount Sinai’s third infusion center on Long Island, joining locations in Greenlawn and Oceanside.
Examination rooms for surgery, endocrinology, rheumatology, hematology and oncology are also on the fourth floor.
The third floor will house the cardiac suite, which will offer imaging services
including CT scans, nuclear imaging and echocardiograms, along with care in neurology, urology and gastroenterology.
The second floor will focus on women’s services, offering mammography, densitometry and ultrasound. It will also include orthopedic pain management and neurosurgery examinations, as well as OB-GYN and gynecologic oncology care, while imaging and radiology services will be located on the first floor.
Geri Barish, founder of Hewlett House, a nonprofit community learning resource center for cancer patients and their families in Hewlett, said it was “phenomenal” to have a facility nearby
to support early detection through mammography screenings.
“What Mount Sinai has brought into the community — education, understanding, the relationship — they remove the fear,” Barish said.
The facility will open in phases, with the fourth floor set to open first on July 15, followed by the third floor the following week and the second floor the week after that. The first floor is expected to open Sept. 9, at which point the facility will be fully operational.
The Wantagh location will be the fifth Mount Sinai ambulatory multi-specialty center of its kind on Long Island, joining sites in Long Beach, Carle Place, Manhasset and Greenlawn. Hospital officials expect the new center to bring roughly 200 jobs to the community.
Hours of operation are expected to be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with expanded weekday hours phased in over time based on patient demand, Long said. The facility is not an urgentcare center. It is by appointment only, with no hospital beds for overnight stays and no emergency services offered.
Dr. Rajiv Datta, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s surgery department chair and the medical director of its cancer program, said that, years ago, patients had to travel to Manhattan for cancer care, often spending an entire day getting to and from appointments. The new facility, Datta noted, will enhance collaboration among physicians while creating a welcoming environment for commuting patients.
“Cancer care has completely changed,” Datta said. “Now it’s coming back to the community, and this is what the center can provide. Most of the patients can be seen here, with all the specialists and trials.”
Stu Goldman/Herald photos
Mount Sinai South Nassau is opening a new $70 million multi-specialty medical facility in Wantagh this month, bringing expanded health services, and hundreds of jobs, to Long Island.
Kenneth Long, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Mount Sinai Health System, left; Dr. Sunil George, medical director of the Wantagh facility; and project manager Sarah Long at a preview of the new Mount Sinai multi-specialty center in Wantagh.
LI shows appreciation for police at annual run
Hundreds of Long Island community members gathered at Eisenhower Park’s Field 2 for the annual David Lerner Associ ates Long Island Police Appreciation Run.
Presented by David Lerner Associates in partnership with the Greater Long Island Running Club, the June 12 event kicked off with a free ¼‑mile kids’ fun run at 6:15 p.m., followed by a 5 K race at 7 p.m., rain or shine
The run’s mission is to show apprecia tion for local law enforcement and raise funds for the Long Island Police Crisis Foundation, which supports officers and their families facing emergencies. This year’s first $1,000 in proceeds was allocated to the Nassau Police Running Club and its scholarship fund.
All participants received a long‑sleeve hooded tee, and awards were handed out live at the finish line, including top overall male and female runners, age group win ners, wheelchair competitors, and standout law enforcement participants.
This year’s top male finishers included Jason Sinert, 27 of Wantagh, Alex Eletto, 28 of Stony Brook, and Thomas Mihailin, 29 of East Northport. The top female finishers were Alyssa Knott, 31 of Holtsville, Jenni fer Cano, 38 of Setauket, and Kimberly Minerva, 36 of Medford. Peter Hawkins, 61 of Malverne, took first place in the wheel chair divison.
For more on the run and its sponsor, visit DavidLerner.com.
— Jordan Vallone
Brittany Krilov/Herald photos
Jason Sihert, 27 of Wantagh, took first place at the David Lerner Associates Long Island Police Appreciation Run at
Alyssa Knot, 31 of Holtsville, was the first female to cross the finish line.
Shore Road School bids farewell to graduating class
The Shore Road School Class of 2025 was celebrated during their graduation ceremony at John F. Kennedy High School on June 20.
Color guard leaders LiaVictoria Buono, Anthony Coniglio, Penelope Mooney, and Francesco Natale opened the ceremony as Katelyn Parrino led the flag salute. Soon after, Principal Patrice Matthews expressed her faith in the sixth grade class.
“We are confident that as we send off the Class of 2025, they will continually shine brightly,” she said. “Not only as leaders of themselves, but as role models that inspire others through their example.”
Graduate Dylan Gaynor thanked the school staff and addressed his peers by quoting Dr. Seuss, saying, “You’re off to great places. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”
The sixth-grade band then performed “Celebration Fanfare” before Clara Benno orated on her class’s history.
“We’ve had the privilege of attending not one, not two, but three incredible elementary schools: Reinhard Early Childhood Center, Winthrop Avenue School and Shore Road School,” she said. “Each school has brought its own fun experiences and memories that has helped shaped us into the people we are today.”
Superintendent Dr. Joseph Famularo encouraged graduates to look ahead with excitement and passion.
“Years from now you won’t remember
your assignments or every detail of your school days, but you will remember how you felt right now,” he said. “Proud, excited, and maybe a little nervous about next year, but that makes the moment so special.”
The orchestra followed with their rendition of “Over the Rainbow,” before trustee Jay Breakstone reflected on the day being the summer solstice, which is the “brightest day of the year.”
“But we know that today is brighter for another reason,” he said. “Because today
we see the future, and we see it in their eyes.”
Graduate Garrett Griffin issued his farewell, saying, “It’s an honor to say goodbye to the district, although it is hard to say goodbye to a place we have called home for so many years.”
PTA co-presidents Jamie GuggenheimShiner and Brianna Bachrach congratulated the graduates during their addresses and Emmie Luckman and Blake Kow-
alski presented Principal Patrice Matthews the class gift, a framed picture of the entire graduating class. The sixth grade chorys performed “The Climb” before each graduate crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, officially making them middle schoolers.
— Brian Kacharaba
NBSD celebrates graduates heading to middle school
It was a week of celebration for 287 sixth graders in the North Bellmore School District who graduated to the middle school in late June.
Saw Mill Road Elementary School’s ceremony took place on June 24, followed by John G. Dinkelmeyer, Martin Avenue, Newbridge Road, and Park Avenue schools the following day. The ceremonies were held at the Grand Avenue and Merrick Avenue middle schools, where the students will be attending next fall.
Saw Mill assistant principal Daniel Madden said that graduation was not only the celebration of a milestone, but of a journey filled with laughter, discovery, friendship and growth. His speech directly quoted the sixth graders after posing questions to them on their most prideful elementary school moments and the lessons they will take with them to middle school.
Newbridge Road’s ceremony was largely organized by the sixth graders themselves. It featured nearly 20 student speakers who reflected on memories from kindergarten through the sixth grade. They also planned special handshakes, highfives and dance moves as they left the stage following the tassel-moving ritual. “I see so much more than students who are graduating and are ready for middle school,” Principal Amanda Licci said. “I see individuals who have grown in courage, confidence and character. I see leaders who have learned to use their voices, to think critically and to care deeply.”
that’s upcoming.
Meanwhile, first-year Park Avenue Elementary School Principal Dr. Lynn Coyle expressed her gratitude to the sixth grade class.
“From the very beginning, you welcomed me with your energy, your ideas, your kindness and your unique personalities,” she told them. “You helped set the tone for what it means to be part of this wonderful school community.”
Sixth grader Micah Millington said he would remember the core values of the Park Pledge and the lessons instilled by their teachers that would help him and his classmates adapt to the big change
“We will walk into Grand Avenue in the fall with a self-assured aura, ready to shine,” he said.
In addition to student speakers, each ceremony featured remarks from a board of education trustee as well as musical presentations.
Danica Brugge, who became principal of Dinkelmeyer midway through her graduates’ kindergarten year, fondly recalled their sweet, bright and eager faces and boundless energy and love for learning.
“I am filled with immense pride and hope for each of you,” she said. “Your journey has been marked by resilience, curiosity, kindness and courage – all
Newbridge Road School graduates Nicholas Chierchie, left, and Sean Burke received their diplomas on June 25.
traits that will continue to serve you well in the years ahead.”
Martin Avenue Elementary School Principal Dr. Michael Yannucci focused his address on one of the district’s core values.
“There is no limit to human potential,” he said. “Each of you has unique talents, dreams and abilities waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Believe in yourself and your capacity to achieve incredible things is endless. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, learn from setbacks and keep striving towards your goals with determination and resilience.”
— Brian Kacharaba
Photos courtesy Bellmore Public Schools
Garrett Griffin gave a farewell address to his Shore Road School peers on June 20.
Mariam Qamer received her diploma from Superintendent Dr. Joseph Famularo.
Photos courtesy North Bellmore School District Nicholas Schlitz got high-fives from his family as he processed up the aisle
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale
SPECIAL AWARDS
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
SUNNY KANG
Co-Founder and COO Earth Therapeutics
RISING STAR
ADRIANA LANE
Miss Long Island Teen 2025
KRISTEN ROSARIO
Miss Long Island 2025
HONOREES
ACHIEVER
ATUL BHATARA
Founder & CEO
Atul Skincare
GEORGIA & THOMAS AMIGDALOS
Registered Nurse & President PureCare Pharmacy and Wellness
AESTHETIC EXCELLENCE
ALI ARTZ
Salon and Spa Owner/ Beauty Entrepreneur
Ambiance Salon and Spa
BATOOL F. RIZVI, DDS
Practice Owner Holistic Dental Wellness Group
DR. HOWARD GOODMAN, DC
Best Weight Loss Doctor Long Island Weight Loss Doctor
MICHAEL ABRAMS, DDS
Owner
Manhasset Dental Arts
NIKKI CESTARO
Author of “SuperHairo”, Hairstylist/Owner
Karma Beauty Studio Inc.
RACHEL LOZINA
Founder Blue Water Spa
BEAUTY INFLUENCER
JO MARIE
Master Hairstylist & Beauty Expert
Jo Marie Hair & Beauty
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MEET THE 2025 AWARD WINNERS
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Founder
Pretty Local
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ANGELA CUI
Owner
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Owner The Beauty Cellar NYC
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SAMI STANTON
Body Sculpting Expert Sculpted by Sami
GAME CHANGER
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CEO & Transformational Architect aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond
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DANA PERSICO
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Rebranding Menopause Podcast HEALTH & WELLNESS
LUIS FANDOS, MD, FAAAM, FABAPM
Founder and CEO
Alluring Age Anti-Aging and Wellness Center
SARAH K. GIRARDI, MD FACS
Associate Professor of Urology
Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics
NEETA MITCHELL, RN & MATTHEW RUTMAN, MD
Founders
Balanced Health & Wellness
HOLISTIC INTEGRATIVE HEALTH
CONSTANCE KOROL
CEO Meta 180
IMPACT
KARLA WALDRON
Executive Director
Mondays Cancer Care
ALYSSA GREINER
Assistant Executive Director Mondays Cancer Care
SUZANNE CHIMERA
Co-Founder
Hair We Share
INNOVATOR
HELEN HSIEH, MD CACOG Founder, Medical Director Vibrance 360
LETICIA HUTSON
Entrepreneur & Beauty Industry Leader HER Spa Room, Benefit Cosmetics/ LVMH
MARISA RUSSELL
Founder & Chief Alchemist Meadow & Bark
LEADERSHIP IN BEAUTY
LARISSA JENSEN
Senior Vice President, Global Beauty Industry Advisor Circana
LEGACY
JOAN CALIENDO
Miss New York Senior America
MEDICAL AESTHETICS & MEDSPA
ALICE KHALKAD, LME
Skin Specialist House Of Skin
PRECISION & PURPOSE
KRISTA BENNETT DEMAIO
Founder
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& Beyond
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JIM WANG
Owner Spa 505
SCIENCE & SKIN
ANGELICA SOLOMON
Founder Best Skin & Body Aesthetics Spa
LINDA HARKAVY, MD
President/Medical Director Form & Function Aesthetics and Wellness
SKINCARE BRAND VISIONARY
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Account Executive New York ISDIN USA
SURGICAL INNOVATOR
STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, MD, FACS
Founder and Plastic Surgeon Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery
TRAILBLAZER
DANA PERSICO
CEO & Executive Director Long Island Nail Skin & Hair Institute
ALICIA GATTI, NP
Nurse Practitioner, CEO Modern Dose
SHARON GRASSO, LEM, CLT
Founder Permanent Touch Cosmetics
WELLNESS & LONGEVITY
CATHERINE CANADEO
CEO & Founder Health and Wellness Corp
formation
Former Rep. Carolyn McCarthy dies at 81
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Carolyn McCarthy, a former U.S. representative from Long Island who transformed personal tragedy into a two-decade-long crusade for gun control in Congress, died on June 26. She was 81.
Born Carolyn Cook on Jan. 5, 1944, in Brooklyn, and raised in Mineola, McCarthy wanted to become a physical education teacher. Instead she became a nurse, inspired to do so after caring for an injured boyfriend. Her life was forever changed on Dec. 7, 1993, when Colin Ferguson opened fire on a Long Island Rail Road car, killing six people, including McCarthy’s husband, Dennis, critically wounding their son, Kevin, and injuring 18 others.
McCarthy became a symbol of resilience nationwide, and entered public service. Her story was dramatized in the 1998 television movie “The Long Island Incident,” with actress Laurie Metcalf portraying her.
“Long Island lost a giant today,” Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages said in a statement last Thursday. “As a woman representing Long Island in elected office today, I walked through doors Carolyn helped open. Her work on behalf of survivors, her courage to speak out when others stayed silent, and her focus on protecting families and communities are just a few parts of a legacy that will live on for generations.”
McCarthy, a former Republican, ran for Congress as a Democrat in 1996, defeating Republican incumbent Dan Frisa in a stunning upset. She represented New York’s 4th Congressional District, which covers a large swath of Nassau County’s South Shore, from 1997 until her retirement in 2015.
During her 18 years in the House, she was widely regarded as one of the nation’s most tenacious and outspoken champions of gun reform.
“I was privileged to serve with Carolyn in Congress for almost two decades,” former U.S. Rep. Peter King
wrote, “and was proud to call her a friend. She was a fighter and staunch advocate for New York and Long Island who used her family tragedy as an opportunity to do so much good for so many others.”
McCarthy often referred to herself as “the gun lady,” though she also worked on education and local constituent issues.
“I recently spoke with her about the 125th anniversary of Nassau County and invited her to attend the county’s gala as an honored guest,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said in a statement. “Unfortunately, she wasn’t feeling up to it, but she expressed her best wishes and love for Nassau County. Carolyn was a true leader and a very decent person. She will be sorely missed.”
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen called McCarthy “a tireless advocate for Long Island.”
“Carolyn turned her pain into action, running for Congress and advocating for common sense gun reform, including comprehensive background checks,” Gillen said in a statement. “We must honor her legacy by continuing her life’s work to keep our communities and our children safe from the scourge of gun violence.”
McCarthy announced her decision not to seek reelection in 2014, citing health reasons, and stepped down in January 2015. Fellow Democrat Kathleen Rice succeeded her.
“Carolyn fought for safer communities, and stronger laws to prevent gun violence,” Jay Jacobs, Nassau County’s Democratic committee chairman, said in a statement. “She leaves behind a legacy of action, resilience, and public service. We will continue to honor her memory, as we vow to carry on her fight.”
Herald file photo
Carolyn McCarthy, a former U.S. representative from Long Island who transformed personal tragedy into a two-decade-long crusade for gun control in Congress, died on June 26.
STEPPING OUT
July 4th entertaining al fresco-style
By Karen Bloom
Barbecue season is heating up! Whether fireworks are part of your holiday weekend plans, certainly some time at the grill will be very much on the agenda. There’s no better way to celebrate than with good food, great company and a sizzling grill. Whether you’re planning a backyard bash or a cozy cookout, make this year’s Fourth of July feast one to remember.
Sure, burgers and hot dogs are always a hit — and a holiday standard — but why not kick things up a notch? Impress your guests with flavorful additions like chorizo sausages, ribs, or maybe some spice-up marinated chicken. If that’s a bit too exciting for you, then you can always spruce up the classics by going for unique flavors. Jalapeño hotdogs, anyone?
Make sure to marinade: Don’t underestimate the power of a good marinade. Prepping your meat a day or two ahead lets those bold flavors soak in — and yes, even hot dogs and burgers can benefit from a tasty soak. Marinating your meat before you grill can seriously enhance its flavors. Don’t forget your vegetarian friends and family: Got vegetarian friends or just want to lighten things up? Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers and asparagus add vibrant color and bold flavor to your spread. Try veggie kebabs or marinated portobello mushrooms as hearty meatless options.
Keep it healthy (but delicious): Unlike the other holidays that we associate with eating (such as Thanksgiving), it’s totally possible to keep your feast healthy. Fourth of July doesn’t have to mean food coma. Use clean ingredients and simple swaps — think avocado-oil mayo in your coleslaw or a touch of honey instead of sugar in cornbread. Add a big salad, fresh fruit and grilled corn for balance.
Put a twist on the standards: Whatever you choose, you can seriously wow your guests by putting a modern take on a traditional recipe. For instance, if you’re making coleslaw this time around, then you can experiment with different flavors, such as jalapeño, apple, or even spicy Thai peanut. You can add the same variation to different dishes, such as baked beans, mac and cheese, and even your condiments.
Turn your grill into a flavor playground — and serve up a celebration your guests won’t forget.
Zesty Steak
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1 tablespoon Montreal Steak Seasoning (or any spicy season of your choice)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 pounds boneless beef sirloin or flank steak
turn to coat well.
Refrigerate 1 hour or longer for extra flavor. Remove steak from marinade. Discard any remaining marinade.
Grill over medium-high heat 6 to 8 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
For added flavor, try a tasty topper on your meat.
Dijon Mustard Aioli: Blend Dijon and whole-grain mustard with creamy Greek yogurt, garlic, tarragon and white pepper for a rich, tangy topping.
Mushrooms and Blue Cheese: Mix hearty mushrooms and full-flavored blue cheese with your favorite savory spices and a splash of sherry wine
Smoky Bacon Jam: Start with the finest cuts of bacon browned to crispy perfection then add caramelized onion and an accent like brown sugar or balsamic vinegar.
Tomato Jam: Experiment with your favorite varieties to find the perfect balance of crushed tomatoes, sweet gherkins and seasonings.
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Lemon-Cucumber Salsa
• 8 skewers
• 1 pineapple
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
Lemon-Cucumber Salsa
• 1 lemon, supremed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon wildflower honey
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Soak wooden skewers for 15 minutes prior to grilling. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Remove rind from pineapple and dice into 1-inch pieces. In small bowl, combine oil, salt and pepper. Add chicken and pineapple; toss to coat.
Alternating chicken and pineapple, pierce onto skewers. Grill skewers 8 minutes each side, or until chicken is cooked thoroughly.
To make Lemon-Cucumber Salsa: In medium bowl, combine lemon, cucumber, onion, honey and pepper. Serve lemon-cucumber salsa over cooked chicken skewers
Rick Springfield
We’re gonna party like it’s 19801989! Rocker (and ageless heartthrob) Rick Springfield gave us the soundtrack of our glory days: “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “Love Somebody,” “Human Touch,” “On the Dark Side,” and many more of the most iconic songs of that era. The Grammy-winning musician is back on the road this summer with the 2025 edition of his I Want My 80s Tour. This time around he brings along special guests John Waite, Wang Chung and Paul Young. Over the past four decades, he’s worn many hats as an entertainer and performer. The creator of some of the finest ‘80s power-pop, he’s sold 25 million albums and scored 17 U.S. Top 40 hits. Also an accomplished actor and an author, both his candid 2010 memoir “Late, Late at Night” (which Rolling Stone named one of the 25 greatest rock memoirs of all time) and his 2014 comedic novel “Magnificent Vibration” earned rave reviews and spots on the New York Times Best Sellers’ list.
Thursday, July 10, 7:30 p.m. $40, $30. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington.Tickets at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444. Welcome the nation’s birthday in good taste
Wednesday, July 9, 7 p.m. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at livenation.com.
He said, she said
Share in some lively repartee when four comedians — two men, two women — sling barbs at one another in The Ivy League of Comedy’s “Skirmish of the Sexes.”Laugh the night away with tales of love and not-love, bad dinners and good dates, broken cars and unbroken dreams. Check out this take on the age-old dichotomy of who’s right and who’s wrong. The lineup features Tony Deyo, known for his sharp, quick material and near-perfect timing; Calise Hawkins, a single mom who stands out with her hair, but also her smile and onstage likability. Also Shaun Eli, rightfully called one of America’s smartest comics. Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Shaun shows you hilarity in the ordinary. And Ophira Eisenberg, who delivers a unique blend of smart irreverent standup and storytelling.
Mix soy sauce, honey, orange juice, steak seasoning and ginger in small bowl. Place steak in large resealable plastic bag or glass dish. Add marinade;
Tip: Supreme citrus fruit by cutting off top and bottom of fruit then cut away peel and pith, leaving no white on outside of fruit. Slice each segment into wedges by cutting toward center of fruit along membrane.
Zesty Steak
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
JULY
3
Concert at Newbridge Park
The Mystic kicks off the Town of Hempstead’s concert series at Newbridge Road Park. Bring your chairs, coolers and welcome the holiday weekend under the stars. Food trucks will be on-site serving a variety of delicious options, perfect for a casual night out with family and friends.
• Where: 2600 Newbridge Road, Bellmore
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: themysticmusic.com
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s unveils its new exhibition, “At Play,” a survey of artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth 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
TD Bank ‘Celebrate America’ Eisenhower Park welcomes the annual TD Bank Celebrate America Fireworks and Show. Enjoy tunes with Chicken Head and Glenn Strange Band, followed by fireworks. As always, bring seating. Rain date is July 5.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
Day Walk/Run
Striders hosts its annual Independence Day 4-mile Run and Walk through the streets of Bellmore.
• Where: Bedford and Pettit Avenues, Bellmore
JULY
15
The Gin Blossoms
nostalgia, stories, multimedia, and trivia, and a finale that is pure Broadway caliber. This is a true immersion into the life and career of Neil Diamond.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
JULY
12
Dog adoption event
Three Dogs Bakery in Bellmore hosts an adoption event with the Town of Hempstead.
• Where: 2550 Clubhouse Road, Merrick
• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 612-9555
JULY
Live After Five
31
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Take a trip down memory lane with Gin Blossoms when their highly anticipated 2025 tour visits Long Island. With their timeless hits, infectious melodies, and nostalgic vibes, Gin Blossoms promises to deliver a concert experience that will transport fans back to the heyday of ‘90s alternative rock. The band rose to fame in the ‘90s with hits like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Til I Hear It from You,” that still resonate today. Their jangly guitars, catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics captured the spirit of the decade and earned them a dedicated following that continues to grow. With their dynamic stage presence and infectious energy, Gin Blossoms knows how to keep the crowd on their feet and singing along to every word. Their latest tour is a nostalgic journey through the band’s greatest hits, as well as new songs that are sure to captivate. Whether you’re reliving the memories of the ‘90s or discovering Gin Blossoms for the first time, their music will leave a lasting impression. And, of course, one of the highlights of any Gin Blossoms concert is the connection they share with their fans. Whether it’s through their heartfelt lyrics or their engaging stage banter, Gin Blossoms creates a sense of camaraderie that makes every concert feel like a reunion with old friends. $82, $71.75, $60.25, $49.25, $37.25.
• Time: 8 a.m.
• Contact: events.elitefeats. com/25Bellmore
JULY
Storybook Stroll
5
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for another storybook adventure Stroll the gardens and enjoy a telling of Arnold Lobel’s “The Rose in My Garden” With a take-home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Splish Splash…
JULY 6
Animal Baths
Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents.
Join an animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to observe animal bath time and learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animals.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City.
• Time: 1:30-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
JULY
9
Sundaes & Stories: Ice Cream Social Title Swap
Bellmore Memorial Library’s Adult Summer Reading Program invites fellow bookworms to share their love of reading over ice cream! Make ice cream sundaes, meet fellow book-lovers, enjoy a lively discussion about some of your favorite books, and more. Everyone will come away with a list of suggestions to add to your TBR pile.
• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave., Bellmore
• Time: 2:30-4 p.m.
• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org or (516) 785-2990
Family movie night
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. Enjoy “Despicable Me 4,” the fourth main installment and sixth overall entry in the Despicable Me franchise. With the arrival of a new baby, Gru’s life is great — until an old rival comes back for revenge and forces Gru to uproot his family and Minions! Starring Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will
Ferrell. Bring seat.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: Movie begins at dusk
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
Little Learners
JULY
10
Art Lab
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to handson materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week design jewelry! $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
‘Where it began…’
Broadway’s Robert Neary, also a star of TV and film, visits Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre with his Neil Diamond showcase “So Good.” He creates an unforgettable tribute to one of the greatest recording artists in history. Two hours packed with 24 classic hit songs,
Don’t miss out on Merrick’s Live After Five. Merrick Community Civic Association hosts an evening dedicated to supporting local businesses. Participating restaurants and shops offer special promotions for the evening for all customers. Enjoy music at the Gazebo near the LIRR (weather permitting).
• Where: Along Merrick Avenue, from LIRR to Loines Ave, and into the Merrick Mall.
• Time: Beginning at 5 p.m.
• Contact: For the most up to date list of participating businesses, check out @ MerrickLiveAfterFive on Instagram
Moonlight Mile
AUG
8
The Moonlight Mile returns to Newbridge Road Park. Take the gentle curves around the park for a fun, flat 1-mile race or walk.
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Contact: events.elitefeats. com/25Moonlight
Having an event? Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge.
Goldman optimistic for 2026 Israel trip
because of his competition, many of which had the chance to go onto playing collegiately.
“I had no intentions of making the team,” he recalled. “I thought I had no chance. I didn’t like the odds. I thought the players were much better than me.”
The three-day tryout featured several skating drills, but Goldman noticed that as time passed, he was being moved into other groups with what he thought were better players. He scored a couple of goals on the final day to increase his chances, but would it be enough to persuade the coaches?
About a month or two later, Goldman was on a field trip to Lake George when he got a text from his mom asking to FaceTime her. He thought the tryout results would be coming weeks later, so he found it strange that his father would be video recording the call. But his parents announced the results and told him that he made the team.
“I started tearing up a little bit,” he said. “I was so excited. I was so ready to tell all of my friends that I made it. I was so proud of myself. My parents were crying and so were my sister. We were so excited that I made the team, and I am able to go to Israel. I wanted to make the team so badly.”
And the best part about making the team was having the ‘USA’ crest across his jersey.
Chase goldman’s chance to play hockey in the maccabi games was postponed until next summer because of the israel-iran conflict.
“It’s one of my biggest dreams representing the USA,” he explained. “I love hockey. It’s my thing. And watching my favorite hockey players having ‘USA’ across their chest is something I’ve always wanted to do.”
Goldman has been a member of the Bellmore-Merrick high school varsity team the past two seasons. He had four
our best guys, they were, him included,” Bulldogs coach Patrick Braglia said. “We don’t need a lot of flash. We don’t need to score 50 goals in a game. Could we, yeah we probably could, but we don’t choose to play that way because we know as the season goes on and you get into playoffs, they’re not walkover games, so we’re always preparing to do things the right way, and that’s why he saw such a big improvement from regular season to playoff time is because now we’re in full throttle.”
Braglia recommended Goldman to the Team USA organizers and was not surprised that he made the team.
“He’s a fantastic player,” he said. “Very smart, he puts a lot of time in. He definitely brings something to the table that every coach wants to have on their team. He can play with skill, he can play with speed, he plays with a little grit if you need him to.”
goals and eight points during the Bulldogs’ four-game championship playoff run last February to help the team claim their first New York Islanders High School Hockey League title since 2016.
He had just five goals and 14 points during the team’s 15-1 regular season.
“When our best guys needed to be
Unlike hockey seasons, wars don’t have a definitive end. They could last months, or they could go on for years. Goldman would like to see Israel-Iran conflict end sooner just for the safety of his people alone and does envision a scenario where he will be skating on Israeli ice next summer.
“Obviously, there’s a little bit of fear in me that the Games will get canceled straight up,” he said. “But I am confident I will be in Israel next year playing for Team USA.”
Courtesy Chase Goldman
Three girl scouts win prestigious Gold Award
both schools would eventually attend the same middle school, she feared those students would feel intimidated by being around so many unfamiliar faces.
As a result, she created a pen pal program, where a student from one of the district’s elementary schools can write to another at a different location. That way, the students could develop friendships in advance and be excited to see each other at middle school. In addition, Arnoff created a series of rules, guidelines, and writing prompts to help the students write their letters and a “Tips and Tricks” guide for sixth graders that contains advice to help them feel better prepared and confident as they advance to middle school.
Arnoff said the idea was well received by the other students and teachers and even the Board of Education, who planned to share her plan in hopes of expanding the program across the district.
“I honestly was [surprised] because when I first mentioned it, they said it would be difficult for it to continue,” she said. “But when [Superintendent Marie] Testa said there might be a chance of it continuing, I got really happy.”
She formulated the idea during the
LEGAL NOTICE
past school year and is proud that her efforts resulted in a Gold Award.
“It’s really exciting,” she said. “I worked so hard for this award, and I’m so glad that all of my work paid off.”
Holly DeGiglio: Helping Students Calm Anxiety
DeGiglio, another soon-to-be senior at Mepham, realized at an early age that
Public Notices
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank Of New York Mellon as Trustee for Home Equity Loan Trust 2007-FRE1, Plaintiff AGAINST
Eduardo Escobedo; Dawn Escobedo a/k/a Dawn M. Escobedo; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 13, 2018, amended June 17, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 24, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 2553 Washington Boulevard, North Bellmore, NY 11710. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 56 Block 478 Lots 63, 64, 65, 66 & 198.
Approximate amount of judgment
$968,521.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold
subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 009598/2014.
Brian J. Carmody, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: May 16, 2025 154170
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
Cascade Funding RMI Acquisitions Grantor Trust, Plaintiff v. Richard W. Ross a/k/a Richard Warren Ross as Executor of the Estate of Evelyn Ross, deceased, et al., Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale (the “Judgment”) entered on January 19, 2023.
I, the undersigned Referee will sell in one parcel at public auction to be held at the North Side steps of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York on July 16, 2025 at 3:00p.m., the premises described by said Judgment to be sold
and therein described as follows: ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected situate, lying and being at Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as Lots No. 58 in Block 284 on a certain map entitled, “Map of Ocean Village Section No. 8, situated at Bellmore, Nassau County, New York, surveyed August, 1959 Baldwin & Cornelius Co., Civil Engineers and Surveyors, Freeport, N.Y.”, and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau May 9, 1962 as Map No. 7580. Said Premises known as 3142 Shore Road, Bellmore, New York 11710. (Section 63 Block 284 Lot 58) Approximate amount of lien $2,301,533.06, plus interest and Plaintiff’s advances, costs and expenses, all due as per the Judgment. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the Judgment and terms of sale.
Index No.: 000119/2014; Tony L. D’Anzica, Esq., Referee Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP
Robert J. Malatak, Esq. Attorney(s) for Plaintiff Cascade Funding RMI Acquisitions Grantor Trust 156 West 56th Street New York, New York 10019
Tel: (212) 237-1000 154158
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
Meeting Notice
The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Bellmore Fire District will hold a special meeting to open bids for renovations on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the District Office 2450 Newbridge Road Bellmore, NY 11710 at 8:00pm. John Fabian Secretary Board of Fire Commissioners 154426
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
she wanted to become a high school teacher, either in English or art. She also wanted to play a vital role in helping younger students deal with anxiety, so she fundraised money to create calmdown bins and purchase noise canceling headphones.
DeGiglio also wrote a book that would be placed in each bin of the thirdgrade classes and nurse’s office in the North Bellmore district. She also gave presentations to the other girl scout troops, the third-grade classrooms, the library, and the Board of Education about how to soothe anxiety.
“I wanted to become a teacher when I grew up and I know so many people who struggle with anxiety,” DeGiglio said. “I just want to help people with anxiety by creating these calm-down bins that they will need to help them.”
She described her experience as “life changing” and hoped that the project would help future students deal with the stresses.
“It feels absolutely amazing,” DeGiglio said. “I’m so excited to be a new role model for younger generations of girl scouts.”
Grace Ham: Fire-Safe Kids
Firefighting has always been a passion for Ham, a recent graduate of John F. Kennedy High School. She was fascinated by the uniforms, trucks, and the job at a young age and it resulted in her becoming a junior auxiliary member of the Bellmore Volunteer Fire Department at age 14.
Those experiences made her realize the horrors that firefighters face every day and that children are often victims when tragedy strikes. As a result, she authored a coloring book for elementary school children that dealt with fire safety.
“I gave out over 100 issues of this coloring book,” she said. “It’s currently in the elementary schools and it is in public places that they’re free to make copies of. It’s at the local fire department. I’ve gotten emails from other fire departments and non-profits asking if you have a copy of it so that they can make copies of their own.”
Ham added that her night was just as
moving as it was exciting.
“It’s very sweet because you’re surrounded by people who were with you throughout the journey,” she said. “My former leader was here, and she was there with me since kindergarten, so it was very emotional.”
Holly degiglio helped students quell their anxiety by creating calm-down bins and purchasing noise canceling headphones through fundraising.
Brittany Krilov/Herald Photos
the three award winners celebrated the event with their families.
grace Ham’s passion for firefighting inspired her to author a coloring book for elementary school children that focused on fire safety.
Waterfront Elegance
The architect made our project sound so complicated
Q. I met with an architect whom my contractor recommended, and I’m now very upset and confused. We need to get our job done by the end of the summer, and the building department said I should speak to an architect, get plans and they could process my permit. It sounded a lot simpler than the architect said. What seemed like a simple job — to do plans for a small bump-out back dormer to match the front one — has been made to sound like a major project. Why is there such exaggeration of the things the architect says need to be done? This shouldn’t take so long, and the cost is a lot more than we planned. What should I expect, minimally, to get plans and a permit?
A. I’m not sure if your building department still has the posted signs showing a person bent over, laughing, with the caption, “You want it when?” Or the one that says, “Your failure to plan ahead does not constitute an emergency on our part.”
As if that wasn’t enough of an explanation, I usually have to spend an hour or so — with a consultation fee, since I’m not a public service (and they are) — to explain, as fully as I can, what you didn’t get from your building department. Smaller building departments, I find, have a better track record at going over things with you, but bigger ones don’t have the time, so they refer you to an architect to lay the groundwork, often creating friction about what you’ll need.
The architect’s outline of what you can encounter is rarely an exaggeration, but most people are dazed and in disbelief, often saying that the building department made it sound a lot simpler, and the full explanation sounds like a con job.
Unfortunately, most people — including the first people you speak to at a building department, your contractor or a friend — are not producing or responding to the myriad code requirements, so they may not be fully aware of the big picture. For example, when you read a book, it can take several days to get through it, but that doesn’t mean it only took several days to write.
Someone showed me photos they rushed to take of a home they want to buy. I immediately spotted five violations in the pictures. Two of the violations were ceiling height (too low) and an electric panel next to a bathroom sink. Just the ceiling height could cause a six- to nine-month delay in filing documents and applying to the State Code Board for a hearing or review.
Then there was the fact that the dormer had a nearly flat roof and the wrong kind of roofing. Add in the under-minimum distance in front of the toilet and the lack of ceiling height in the shower with the wrong kind of sink trap, and you realize that just that one bathroom creates great time and expense. More to come next week.
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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ATTENTION OXYGEN
How do we make sense of the rise in antisemitism?
on a somber April day, thousands gathered in my hometown of Plainview for a ceremony that should never have taken place. We renamed Manetto Hill Road Captain Omer Neutra Way, a permanent tribute to a brave young man who lost his life defending his homeland, and whose body is still being held hostage by terrorists.
I had the solemn honor of sponsoring the legislation that made this tribute possible. And while it passed unanimously, this wasn’t just a moment of legislative action; it was a moral obligation. As antisemitism continues to rise across America and around the world, we cannot allow the atrocities of Oct. 7, 2023, to be whitewashed, minimized or forgotten.
Omer Neutra was a son of Plainview, a proud American and a commander in the Israel Defense Forces. He was murdered in the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas near Nir Oz, one of the Israeli communities most devastated by the assault. His senseless death shook our
Reading to repair our hearts and minds opinions
How does what we read every day affect our lives?
Daily newspapers and TV news drown us with torrents of repetitive and sometimes conflicting accounts of events across America and the world. The best of them are stanchions of democracy, and we need these dailies to offer a wide-angle lens, to see what we cannot see from our own front yards.
We need our weeklies to bring us stories about people we know in our communities, a narrower lens that focuses on local events and individuals. Weeklies are the lifeblood of community life — the pages where our neighbors are hailed as heroes, and school athletes have their moment in the sun.
Newspapers in this country struck their roots in liberty, and until the Trump era, citizens could rely on the accounts of events they read in the paper. Today, with overt threats against freedom of the press and news outlets co-opted by political power players, we
community, but the pain deepens with every day his body remains in captivity.
This act of violence, this war crime, should have rallied universal condemnation. But instead, we are seeing something deeply disturbing: a surge of antisemitism so virulent that even those marching peacefully to honor Neutra and to advocate for the return of hostages have themselves become targets.
Just weeks ago, in Boulder, Colorado, peaceful demonstrators with the Run For Their Lives campaign were attacked with Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower. Their supposed crime?
Wcessfully to secure $950,000 in American Rescue Plan Act grant funding for the Mid Island Y JCC. That’s why I speak out — and that’s why I urge every elected official, regardless of party or position, to do the same.
e can’t allow the atrocities of Oct. 7, 2023, to be minimized or forgotten.
Calling for the return of hostages. This was not an isolated act of hate; it was the latest in an escalating pattern of antisemitic violence.
As a Jewish American, as a father and as a public official, I cannot and will not remain silent.
Jewish communities today are navigating a landscape of fear that is unlike anything I have experienced in my lifetime. We must respond not with fear or silence, but with resolve, unity and a firm commitment to truth and justice. That’s why I sponsored the legislation to honor Neutra. That’s why I fought suc-
We must call out antisemitism wherever it festers, whether it wears the mask of political activism or the cloak of conspiracy. This is not a matter of left or right. It is a matter of right and wrong.
But the work of governing isn’t just about remembrance; it’s also about results. That’s why I fought to unlock long-stalled funding for first responders in our community, securing nearly $91,000 for a new Muttontown police vehicle and supporting drainage, streetscape and public-safety projects throughout Syosset, Woodbury and Plainview.
It’s why I co-sponsored legislation to cut excessive small business fees that are choking entrepreneurs in Nassau County — fees that run three to five times higher than in neighboring Suffolk.
I’ve backed efforts that meet our neighbors where they are, supporting local food pantries, organizing “Shed the Meds” events to safely dispose of
expired medications, and honoring the heroism of Plainview firefighters who risked their lives during a devastating apartment fire.
I also stood alongside my Democratic colleagues in taking legal action against County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s reckless attempt to create a taxpayerfunded armed civilian militia, a program that lacks oversight, violates state law and endangers public trust.
At its core, public service isn’t about grandstanding or grabbing headlines. It’s about people. It’s about principle. It’s about doing the hard, necessary work to protect the vulnerable, uphold the law and deliver results for the communities we represent.
So I am renewing my pledge to honor Omer Neutra not just with words, but with action — to preserve the memory of those we’ve lost, protect the freedoms we cherish, and fight against hate in all its forms.
To those who feel alone in this moment, know that you are not. To those calling for justice, know that I am with you. And to those who think this moment will pass, I promise you: We will not forget, we will not back down and we will not be silent.
Arnold W. Drucker represents Nassau County’s 16th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s deputy minority leader.
need to double down on the demand for honest and unbiased reporting. (It’s useful to note here that my column is by definition an opinion piece, my own views, not the policies of the Herald).
So we push, push for our free press against an incoming tide of political pressure. We need journalists to challenge the leaders in whom we put our faith and trust. We need the pragmatists and the idealists and the investigators to keep our newspapers relevant and alive.
How did these values become dirty words?
p u t down the phone.
Pick up a book. Stand in someone else’s shoes.
From my perch, an even greater need is for more people to read books, any books, all books, nothing banned. The impulse to ban a book comes from a place of intolerance and ignorance. No one ever became gay or trans or hypersexual because they read a book on the subject. Book banning comes from a small place, fear of someone different or a way of life that doesn’t conform to the majority.
Why are school libraries being thinned and censored? Why was a reference to Jackie Robinson’s military service temporarily removed from the U.S. Department of State website? Apparently, part of a sweep to remove any references to diversity, equity and inclusion.
These days, various media compete for our attention. Teenagers, especially, are vulnerable to the sound and light shows coming from their phones. It’s hard to curl up with a book when the phone gives you games and shocking fake news and social media to keep you jacked up. Parents who used to read to their young children are often distracted themselves by their phones and other devices.
As our political world spirals into confusion and mistrust, and as our president and his minions draw the country in and out of real and threatened violence here and overseas, where can a thinking person turn for comfort? What can help keep us grounded and hopeful as we celebrate our democracy on the Fourth of July?
Put down the phone. Pick up a book. Stand in someone else’s shoes, in another time and place. Escape the political convulsions of this moment and feel buoyed by a character’s life and loves; feel grounded by the universal values humans share.
I’m not sure how you become a reader of books if you never have been, but I
do know it’s possible. I know folks in their adulthood who finally found the peace and the time to start reading. It’s comforting, it’s edifying, and the connection between reader and character can be profound.
The books I’m reading this summer fall under the banner of “repairing the world,” which comes from the concept in Judaism to work toward making the world better. John Steinbeck wove the theme of repairing the world into his great novel “East of Eden,” exploring the tension between free will and destiny in human experience. Gorgeous stuff.
The books on my list are “Twist,” by Colum McCann, a story about a team of seamen who fix underwater internet cables around the globe; “Prophet Song,” by Paul Lynch, a novel about a fight against a totalitarian takeover in Ireland; “The Return,” by Hisham Matar, a man’s search for his father, who was “disappeared” by the Qaddafi regime; and “Western Lane” by Chetna Maroo, a debut story of summoning strength while moving through grief. These books explore the boundary places in our lives, the broken places, and offer visions for doing good in a fractured world.
Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
ARnoLD W. DRUCKER
RAnDi KREiss
HERALD
In Congress, July 4, 1776
The Declaration of Independence was first published on July 6, 1776, in a newspaper, the Pennsylvania Evening Post. We are proud to commemorate that high point in American journalism by reprinting that historic document.
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the Powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at
places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness of his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws of Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislature.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their acts of pretended legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from Punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing taxes on us without our consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the forms of our Government:
For suspending our own legislature, and declaring themselves invested with Power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy of the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free People.
Nor have We been wanting in attention to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the Protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our Sacred Honor.
The Declaration was signed first by John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, and then by 55 others representing the 13 original states.
opinions Congress should pass Gio’s Law to save lives
more than 32 million Americans live with life-threatening food allergies and other severe allergic conditions. Anaphylaxis can be triggered by food, insect stings or medications — things we come into contact with every day. In the event of life-threatening allergic reactions, families should not have to worry about access to life-saving epinephrine.
Last month, I proudly introduced the bipartisan legislation Gio’s Law alongside my Republican Long Island colleague Rep. Andrew Garbarino. Congress should come together and pass Gio’s Law, which would equip America’s brave law enforcement officers with lifesaving EpiPens and provide the training to administer care when responding to allergy-related emergencies.
Epinephrine is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis, the only medication that can fully reverse the severe, life-threatening symptoms of anaphylactic shock. Benadryl or other allergy medications will not reverse those symptoms; only epinephrine can do that. Putting EpiPens in the hands of
our first responders could be the difference of life or death for members of our community.
I introduced Gio’s Law in honor of Giovanni Cipriano, a Lynbrook native who died from a severe allergic reaction at age 14. Giovanni, who was known as Gio to his friends and loved ones, was a beloved son, brother, teammate and honor student who had just begun his freshman year at Holy Trinity High School when he suffered a fatal response to a food allergen. His life was tragically cut short because of this reaction. We must do everything we can to prevent other families from suffering such a heartbreaking loss.
vent future tragedies and keep other families from enduring this pain is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Over the past decade, Georgina has succeeded in passing New York state’s version of Gio’s Law and worked to boost access here on Long Island.
m y bipartisan legislation would equip law enforcement with EpiPens.
Gio’s Law would establish the firstever federal grant program at the U.S. Department of Justice to equip law enforcement across the country with EpiPens and train officers on how to recognize the symptoms of anaphylactic shock and administer epinephrine.
I was honored to develop this legislation with Gio’s mother, Georgina Cornago, a Long Island native and the founder of the Love for Giovanni Foundation. Georgina has been a tireless advocate for this policy at the local and state level. Her commitment to honoring Gio’s memory by working to pre-
Letters
Mamdani’s lessons for Long Island
To the Editor:
Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected and resounding victory in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary holds some important lessons for Long Island.
But for them to be learned, it is first necessary to discard stereotypes and appraise Mamdani’s views with an open mind. Automatic negative reactions are unhelpful and unthinking. Such is the case with South Shore Democratic Congresswoman Laura Gillen’s contention that Mamdani “is too extreme to lead New York City. His entire campaign has been built on unachievable promises and higher taxes…” Gillen also detects “a disturbing pattern of unacceptable antisemitic comments” on Mamdani’s part.
If they look past the scary label of “democratic socialist,” Long Islanders may find that Mamdani bears some resemblance to … Donald Trump! The Queens assemblyman began his long-shot campaign by soliciting the views of New York
City voters who had supported Trump in 2024. The top reason many expressed was Trump’s emphasis on affordability. And so Mamdani made that the centerpiece of his effort to forge the broadest possible electoral coalition.
“Both Donald Trump and our campaign can see the disillusionment in politics, the inability for so many to celebrate crumbs that cannot feed themselves and their families,” Mamdani told The New York Times in a post-primary interview.
The presumptive Democratic mayoral nominee offered solutions for unaffordability — a rent freeze, accelerated housing construction, reduced-price public transport, free day care — that would likely appeal to many Long Islanders. As Herald readers know, Nassau and Suffolk are becoming wildly unaffordable for middle-income families, with the result that many are moving away. Maybe suburban politicians should consider adopting versions of what Mamdani proposes. They might find future election results to be surprisingly favorable.
On the issue of antisemitism, it’s essential to acknowledge that criticism of the Israeli government’s pol-
With this bill, we are expanding this effort nationwide and working to make epinephrine available and accessible to police departments on Long Island and across the country.
State and local law enforcement officers are our nation’s first responders, and they are often the first on the scene for calls for medical emergencies. It is vital that officers are given the resources and training to ensure they can effectively respond to these emergencies.
During a severe anaphylactic reaction, every second counts. We’ve seen firsthand here in Nassau County that equipping first responders with EpiPens can make the difference in these emergency situations.
As we introduced Gio’s Law, I was proud to be joined by Lynbrook Mayor Alan Beach and members of the Lynbrook Police Department. The village was a trailblazer in deploying EpiPens with first responders. Beach and Lynbrook police officers shared how their
officers have saved multiple lives in our community by stocking and administering EpiPens.
This is a nonpartisan public safety issue: Gio’s Law is about making sure first responders have what they need to save lives. By expanding access and awareness, we are making our communities safer for all those who are at risk of experiencing severe allergic reactions. This could be anyone, since many allergies do not manifest themselves until adulthood.
I am honored that the National Association of Police Organizations and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America have endorsed the bipartisan bill, and I’m proud to support our brave law enforcement officers who work each day to keep us safe.
Since taking office in January, I have worked every day to find compromise and to deliver on the priorities that matter most to my constituents in Nassau County, such as keeping our communities safe. I am proud to honor Gio’s memory alongside Representative Garbarino, and we will continue to push to advance this bipartisan legislation. Congress should come together to carry on Gio’s legacy and pass this common-sense bill to prevent tragedies and equip our law enforcement with the tools to save lives in life-threatening medical emergencies.
Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
icies does not, a priori, equate with disrespect for Jews. Mamdani has in fact called Hamas’s Oct 7, 2023, murders of Jews “a horrific war crime.” And he has indeed condemned the Netanyahu government’s conduct of its war on Gaza.
It is to be hoped that Long Islanders of
good will can take advantage of the opportunity Mamdani presents for an overdue and respectful discussion of Israel’s military actions.
Framework by Tim Baker
A sandcastle contest entrant at the Town of Hempstead’s Salute to Veterans — Point Lookout
Laura a. giLLen
KEvIN J KELLEY Atlantic Beach
