Thousands of residents gathered at Eisenhower Park on July 2 to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary during Nassau County’s annual Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show. Families enjoyed live music before a patriotic fireworks and drone display illuminated the night sky. Right, friends Johnny Bee and Claudia Arroyo were donned patriotic colors for the event. Above, fireworks illuminated the fields at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. Story, more photos, Page 3.
Summer
in East Meadow for Fire Fest
By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com
Fire Fest — East Meadow’s premier summer party — is coming in hot, returning for its fourth year of outdoor fun on July 11.
This year’s Fire Fest will feature more than 25 breweries and distilleries offering craft beer tastings, in addition to food trucks, live music from Long Island band KRUSH, a cigar bar, axe throwing, and much more.
TBrennan said. “The rest is back to the fire.”
his is our big event.
EJ BRENNAN
The event will be held rain or shine, from 1 to 5 p.m. at East Meadow Fire Department’s Engine Company 4 on Bob Reed Lane in Westbury. The event is exclusive to those 21 years old and over, organizers said.
Event organizer
In addition to raising funds for the fire department and EMS responders, the event will benefit multiple local nonprofits: The Ray Pfeifer Foundation, The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, The Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center, Paws of War, GiGi’s Playhouse, and The Jesse Gerhard Memorial Foundation. This is made possible with the support of sponsors Crunch Fitness of East Meadow and Simply Green Dispensary.
John Pawluk, founder of Twisted Cow Distillery, has been a longtime partner of the event.
Fire Fest ’26 is presented by Engine 4 and Ladder 2 of the East Meadow Fire Department.
Event organizer EJ Brennan, ex-captain of the department’s Ladder Company No. 2, is a 50-year member of the department.
“This is our big event, from our point of view… this is our big fundraiser for the year,”
“We were invited a couple years ago, and we’ve had a great time,” Pawluk said. “It’s a great community and supporting our local first responders — we’re always up for that.
“It’s a way for us to get out and meet some of our brewers and distillers who were in the business, and kind of collaborate with them, make some friends, and it’s good for every-
Tim Baker/Herald photos
HERALD SchoolS
They are moving on to their next adventure
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
East Meadow School District eighth graders celebrated the end of their middle school years during moving-up ceremonies at W.T. Clarke Middle School and Woodland Middle School on June 23 and 24, marking an important milestone before beginning high school this fall.
At W.T. Clarke Middle School, students, families, teachers and administrators gathered in the school’s gymnasium after inclement weather forced the ceremony indoors from its originally planned location on the football field.
The venue change did little to diminish the excitement as members of the Class of 2030 reflected on their middle school experiences and looked ahead to becoming Rams at W.T. Clarke High School. Members of the Board of Education and district administration attended to recognize the students’ achievements and growth.
Principal Elizabeth Downing, Assistant Principal Linda Lynch and Superintendent Kenneth Rosner encouraged
students to embrace the next stage of their academic careers.
“As you head to high school, focus less on being perfect and more on being consistent,” Downing said. “Small habits become routines, routines become character, and character becomes your future.”
Students also heard from James Mill-
er, who officially began his tenure as principal of W.T. Clarke High School on July 1. Miller welcomed the incoming freshmen and said he looks forward to supporting them throughout their high school years.
Downing and Lynch also presented academic awards. The following day, Woodland Middle School eighth graders
celebrated their moving-up ceremony at Salisbury School, surrounded by family members, friends, faculty and staff.
Board of Education members, district administrators and Rosner joined the celebration, recognizing students for their accomplishments and perseverance throughout middle school.
Principal Kristi Detor encouraged students to approach high school with confidence and an openness to new opportunities.
“Be kind, be curious, work hard, take chances, support one another and never stop learning,” Detor said. “Tonight, you will all leave Woodland with confidence, knowledge, friendships and memories that will guide you into your next chapter.”
The ceremonies marked the culmination of three years of middle school and the beginning of a new chapter as students prepare to enter W.T. Clarke High School and East Meadow High School this fall.
District officials congratulated both eighth-grade classes and wished the students continued success as they begin their high school careers.
Courtesy East Meadow School District
Eighth graders in East Meadow and W.T. Clarke celebrated three years of hard work during two moving up ceremonies late last month.
Families packed into Eisenhower Park to honor America’s semiquincentennial during Nassau County’s annual
Nassau County celebrates America’s 250th
Thousands of residents gathered at Eisenhower Park on July 2 for Nassau County’s annual Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show, kicking off Independence Day festivities and commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Families and friends filled Parking Field No. 6 with lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy an evening of patriotic entertainment, including live performances by Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock. The free celebration concluded with a fireworks and drone show that lit up the night sky in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial. The event was presented by Nassau County and TD Bank and drew crowds from across Long Island for an evening of music, community and patriotic pride.
–Jordan Vallone
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show.
Patriotic colors were on display around the Harry Chapin Lakeside Threate. Lisa Marie, of Staten Island, with Walter Canteel, of Floral Park.
Riley Tran, 7, Melorin Gelaskani, 7, Mia Keating, 7, and Penlope Pipitone, 7, friends from Levittown, enjoyed the festivities.
Following a variety of musical performances, fireworks illuminated the park.
Debra Toscano, of East Meadow, performed ‘The Star Spangled Banner.’
News brief
Police arrest one for criminal
A homeless man was arrested June 19 after allegedly attempting to cut down a tree without authorization and taking a tree pruner from a restricted maintenance building at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, according to Nassau County police.
Police said officers responded to a criminal mischief report at about 11:15 a.m. at the park, located at 1899 Hempstead Turnpike. Officers learned that a man had attempted to cut down a tree before leaving the scene. Nassau County Parks Department staff later cut the damaged tree down because it posed a risk of falling, police said.
mischief
located Kendall Glass, 67, who police said returned to the scene carrying a tree pruner and was observed cutting the fallen tree into smaller pieces. Detectives determined that the tree pruner had been taken from a park maintenance building that is offlimits to the public, according to police.
Kendall Glass
Glass was arrested without incident and charged with third-degree burglary, fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property and fourth-degree criminal mischief.
He was scheduled to be arraigned June 20 at First District Court in Hempstead.
Following an investigation, officers
–Jordan Vallone
‘cut’ on these
East Meadow businesses
Two East Meadow businesses celebrated ribbon cuttings with the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce.
Whiskey Reds, an Irish pub at 2552 Hempstead Turnpike, drew a celebratory crowd in front of its staple red exterior. A place where music, savory eats and a pint of Guinness are always in store, the pub offers East Meadow residents a lively spot to gather with friends and family.
Candie Coated Canvas, at 538 East Meadow Avenue, offers a colorful creative space where visitors can express
themselves through art. The studio features painting experiences such as its “Paint Your Pet” service, along with private bookings and a Kids Club, giving both adults and children a place to explore their artistic talents.
Business owners were joined by members of the Chamber of Commerce, elected officials and community members to celebrate their endeavors in East Meadow.
–Jordan Vallone
Photos courtesy East Meadow Chamber of Commerce
Whiskey Reds, an Irish Pub on Hempstead Turnpike, celebrated its ribbon cutting with the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce.
Candie Coated Canvas is a new spot for local creatives on East Meadow Avenue.
Firefighters host beer, food,
one,” he continued. “A rising tide raises all boats, so you got to buy local, you got to support local, and that’s what we do.”
Casey Gerhard created the Jesse Gerhard Foundation, which represents one of the many nonprofits involved in the event.
“My younger brother Jesse passed away in the line of duty with the FDNY, and we started a foundation in his honor, donating back to families of first responders and first responders themselves,” he explained. “So far, we’ve donated upwards of $350,000 back to that cause.”
The foundation first connected with the Fire Fest team last year as an event sponsor.
alyson Leonard and Kevin Leonard of Long ireland Brewing Company handed over a sample of beer to artie White and Brad demino during the f ire fest event in 2025.
Leeds/Herald photos axe throwing is among the many activities featured at f ire fest. arianna francis and Jamie Bopp above with Vincent Hopkin.
Tickets for Fire Fest are available for $50 at Eventbrite. Designated driver tickets are also offered, ensuring every-
“It was a great event,” Gerhard said. “I was blown away by how many people they had, and the presentation that they put on for the day. It’s a really fun atmosphere… I think events like this are crucial. These volunteer firehouses are a bunch of guys who put their lives on the line for the local community without really asking for anything in return, and it’s a great way to contribute back to some of the needs that they have.”
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
one can enjoy the event responsibly. For more details, visit Instagram @firefestemfd.
In addition, the East Meadow Fire Department would like to remind resi-
dents that it’s always looking for new members to join. For more information on volunteering with the department, visit EastMeadowFD.com, or call (516) 542-4565.
Holden
HERALD SPORTS
Racing fans say final goodbye to Aqueduct
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
There were plenty of cheers along with some tears in South Ozone Park June 28 as 6,866 horse racing fans bid farewell to Aqueduct Racetrack.
The crowd at ‘The Big A’ roared one last time as Assume Nothing, with jockey Jaime Rodriguez aboard, went wireto-wire to capture the final race of the track’s storied 132-year history.
“This is where my career started in 2010 and it feels amazing to win the last race on the last day,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve ridden the horse a few times and knew if he got a clean break, he’d have a great chance to win.”
After the finale, Rodriguez and the rest of the jockey colony celebrated with fans along the rail, giving out high fives and fist bumps. One fan hoisted a cardboard sign that read: “One more day! Give me a chance to win it back.”
Several thousand fans arrived two hours before the nine-race card began at 1:10 p.m. The first 1,000 through the doors received a small mason jar containing dirt from the main track.
One of the highlights on Aqueduct’s final day came not on the dirt but the turf in the penultimate race when Highway Harmony set a new track record at the 6-furlong distance, taking the last stakes race at the track in 1:06.44 under jockey Edgard Zayas.
Ron Berkowitz, a Merrick resident who grew up in Lynbrook, had the closing date circled on his calendar once it
was announced by the New York Racing Association.
“It’s a bittersweet day,” Berkowitz said. “I’ve been coming here since the late 1970s and really fell in love with the track and the sport. I haven’t been here in a couple of years, but there was no way I was missing today.”
Franklin Square residents Anthony and Sally Turco echoed Berkowitz’s sentiments. “Today brings back a lot of
The mural outside Aqueduct depicts Secretariat, who made his career debut there in 1972.
at Aqueduct, “Goretty” came in 2008. “So many memories,” he added. “I won’t miss the Belt Parkway, but I’ll definitely miss the Big A.”
great memories of coming to the Big A with family,” Anthony said. “Lots of nostalgia. It was awesome.”
The Turcos were in the paddock prior to the fifth race with friend Bruce Brown, a longtime trainer on the NYRA circuit and Floral Park resident. Brown saddled the winner, Boston’s Phinest.
“This is where it all started for me in New York when I came over from New Jersey,” said Brown, whose first winner
The closure of Aqueduct coincides with a rebuilt Belmont Park, set to open Sept. 18.
“I can see the new Belmont grandstand from my house,” said Brown, who expects to have between 15 and 20 horses in his barn once racing shifts back downstate from Saratoga. “I’ve watched the construction from the beginning to what’s almost the end and it’s going to be incredible when it opens,” he added.
Assume Nothing and jockey Jaime Rodriguez won the Aqueduct finale.
Tony Bellissimo/Herald photos
Nearly 7,000 fans packed Aqueduct Racetrack June 28 for its final day of racing after 132 years.
Student presented George Farber Award
By JONATHAN PADILLA Correspondent
Rocky Partusch, East Meadow UFSD, who attends the Nassau BOCES Children’s Readiness Center earned the prestigious George Farber Outstanding Student Award this year for his remarkable attributes including passion, perseverance, enthusiasm, outstanding character, scholarship and willingness to help others.
Partusch was honored for the achievement by administrators and members of the Nassau BOCES Board during a special awards ceremony this Spring.
Over the course of his life, Partusch has demonstrated perseverance, passion, determination and resilience in his journey towards personal growth. He demonstrates an exceptional passion for learning, having made significant strides in skill development, including communication and self-regulation skills. Partusch’s inherent motivation to overcome obstacles has directly contributed to his ability to meaningfully engage in his school environment. He has learned to express his needs coherently, participate more openly in class discussions, effectively use coping strategies to manage stressful situations and to ask for help and support when he is struggling.
Rocky Partusch, of East Meadow, who attends the Nassau BOCES Children’s Readiness Center, earned the George Farber Outstanding Student Award. He was congratulated by family, school staff and administrators.
16 other students were also awarded with the George Farber Award including: Jordan Stewart, Nassau BOCES Iris Wolfson High School in Baldwin UFSD; Giulianna DiSalvo, Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts in Bellmore-Merrick CHSD; Braeden Gorman, Nassau BOCES GC Tech in Bethpage UFSD; Jun Zhou, Nassau BOCES Adult Learning Center in Farmingdale; Alex
Rubio Palacios, Nassau BOCES Carman Road School in Glen Cove City SD; Joel Baez-Ortiz, Nassau BOCES Willet Avenue School and Joseph Jolly, Nassau BOCES Career Preparatory High School both in Hempstead UFSD; Evan Danko, Nassau Boces Jerusalem Avenue Ele -
mentary School in Hicksville UFSD; Donville Phillips, Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School in Lawrence UFSD; Nicholas DeBono, Nassau BOCES Barry Tech in Oceanside UFSD; Kashaun Robinson, Nassau BOCES Robert Williams School in Roslyn UFSD; Lesther Cardona Iraheta, Nassau BOCES Seaman Neck Middle School and Tatiana Zepeda Banos, Nassau BOCES Twilight Alternative High School Program both in Uniondale UFSD; Alan Diaz, Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School in Valley Stream CHSD; Christian Vasquez Cruz, Nassau BOCES Adult Career & Technical Education in Westbury as well as Kaiheem McCall, Nassau BOCES for Community Adjustment in Westbury UFSD.
“Rocky had demonstrated remarkable perseverance, passion and determination in his personal growth,” wrote his award nominator. “He has a genuine passion for learning and approaches school with a positive, motivated attitude, always striving to do his best. His endless enthusiasm and tireless perseverance have led him to make great strides, both academically and personally. Rocky makes a meaningful and positive contribution to the CRC community.”
As a vital regional resource, Nassau BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective services for school districts and municipalities.
Courtesy Nassau BOCES
hen Donna Schaeffer, nee Hardgrove, signed a lease for a small storefront on Merrick Avenue in 1977, she could not have imagined that nearly five decades later, thousands of dancers would pass through its doors and generations of families would call it a second home.
Today, Donna Carbone’s Dance Arts stands as one of Merrick’s longest-running arts institutions, preparing to celebrate its 50th season next year, while remaining in the very same location where it began.
“Dance Arts opened in September of ’77; our first recital was on June 16, 1978,” Donna said. “All these years, same location.”
The studio’s roots stretch back even further, to Donna’s own childhood love of dance.
“I used to watch Fred Astaire on TV as a five-year-old,” she recalled. “I’d say, ‘Mommy, I want to dance, I want to dance.’ She sent me for dance lessons when I was in first grade.”
Dance quickly became more than a hobby. After her parents divorced, Donna’s family could no longer afford lessons. Her talent and determination, however, kept her involved. At 14 she became a teacher in the studio where she trained, and she spent years helping build its program. After 25 years, she decided it was time to create something of her own.
“I had been teaching most of the school,” Donna said. “I knew it was time to break out and do it on my own.”
With the help of one student’s parent, who became her initial business partner, Donna opened Dance Arts in Merrick, transforming what had once been a clothing store into a dance studio.
From the beginning, she envisioned a different kind of dance school.
One of her strongest memories from her own dance training was an impression that recitals felt more like an obligation for families to attend rather than entertainment. She remembered fathers attending reluctantly and instructors directing children from the front of the stage during performances.
“The show should be all about the kids,” Donna said, recalling how much her father disliked having to sit through her own recitals as a child. That philosophy shaped every recital she would later produce.
Rather than presenting one dance after another, Donna built elaborate themed productions complete with stories, acting segments and seamless transitions.
“I never wanted people staring at an empty stage,” she said. “If somebody has three minutes to change costumes, I’m going to entertain you for those three minutes.”
Her formula resonated with families. During the studio’s peak years, Dance Arts became a community fixture. Long before online registration, parents lined up outside the building to secure spots for their children.
“The line would go from my front door around the corner and up Oakwood Avenue,” she said. “People would camp out. I’d drive up and there were people with beach chairs and radios and coffee.”
At times, enrollment exceeded 700 students in a single year, all operating out of one small studio room before later expansions created a larger studio space.
“There were far fewer dance schools around at that time,” Carbone said. “My classes closed at 22 or 24 students, and I would still have waiting lists.”
As the studio grew, so did its influence.
Numerous students pursued professional careers after training at Dance Arts. Among the most notable is dancer and choreographer Jodi Melnick, who went on to perform with acclaimed artists including Mikhail Baryshnikov and Twyla Tharp.
Other alumni have appeared on Broadway, performed at Disney, danced aboard cruise ships and opened studios of their own.
Yet ‘Miss Donna,’ as she is affectionately known, measures success differently.
“My goal 1,000 percent was to be a good, educational school,” she said. “I want my teachers to teach proper technique, which results in better dancers.”
That educational focus also led her away from the competitive dance circuit, which grew increasingly popular in later decades.
“Education is paramount for me,” Donna said. “It also has to be fun because not everybody that walks through your doors aspires to become a professional dancer.”
As dance trends evolved from traditional tap, ballet and jazz to hip-hop and contemporary styles, Donna remained committed to staying current. She studied extensively in New York City under renowned instructors and continually brought new techniques back to Long Island.
“What makes my business successful is my access to what’s current and what’s happening in the dance world,” she said. “Because I’m so close to the city, I bring it back to my kids.”
The dance world may have changed dramatically since the 1970s, but the studio continues to thrive through a culture of loyalty and family connection.
Today, second- and thirdgeneration dancers fill classes. Some students now perform in advanced kickline groups once occupied by their mothers.
“There are kids on senior kickline now whose moms were on senior kickline,” she said.
Looking back on nearly half a century, Donna remains grateful for a career built around her passion and gift.
“I am so lucky that I get to go to work at the studio,” she said.
“Every time I go there, it’s my happy place.”
As Dance Arts approaches its milestone 50th season, the studio’s history is measured not only in recitals and trophies, but in generations of dancers whose lives were shaped by a woman who simply wanted to create a dance school her own way.
- Christy Hinko
DONNA CARBONE
Donna Carbone’s Dance Arts
The staff at Donna Carbone’s Dance Arts continue to uphold Donna’s standards and traditions.
NYIT offering new online degree program
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
As millions of Americans have earned some college credits but never completed a degree, the New York Institute of Technology is expanding its online undergraduate business programs to help adult learners finish their education.
TThe university’s School of Management now offers four fully online bachelor’s degree programs designed for students balancing work, family and other responsibilities while pursuing a degree.
The online offerings include a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in business analytics, finance, management and marketing; a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting and Financial Fraud Investigation; a Bachelor of Science in Business Artificial Intelligence and Analytics; and a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Applied Artificial Intelligence.
gram incorporates artificial intelligence into its curriculum while emphasizing practical business skills and emerging technologies. The programs were developed with input from industry leaders to align with current workforce needs.
he online programs help adult and other nontraditional students get ahead without pausing their lives.
JAishANkAR
G ANEsh Dean, School of Management
According to the university, each pro-
“These programs are ideal for a large segment of the population, including community college graduates looking to complete their bachelor’s degree, working professionals with some college credits, and also for career changers seeking to transition into business but hold degrees in other fields,” Jaishankar Ganesh, dean of the School of Management, said in a statement. “The online programs help adult and other nontraditional students get ahead without pausing their lives.”
The Business Administration program provides a foundation in management, marketing, finance and operations. The Forensic Accounting and Financial Fraud Investigation program prepares students for careers in auditing, compliance and financial investigations. The Business Artificial Intelli -
gence and Analytics program focuses on using AI and data analytics to solve business challenges, while the Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Applied Artificial Intelligence program combines
business fundamentals with AI and cloud technologies to prepare students to launch and grow new ventures. Enrollment is open for students interested in beginning the programs this fall.
The
Courtesy New York Institute of Technology
The New York Institute of Technology is expanding its online undergraduate business programs. The university’s School of Management now offers four fully online bachelor’s degree programs.
Soccer fans unite at East Meadow watch party
Team USA’s World Cup journey comes to an end, but not before uniting fans around the country
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Following the success of its first “Soccer in the Park” watch party in June, The Island FC and Nassau County hosted another public viewing event at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park on July 1, drawing thousands of fans together to cheer on the United States Men’s National Team during its FIFA World Cup 2026 run.
More than 6,700 soccer fans attended the inaugural event, which brought together families, youth soccer players and supporters from across Long Island to watch the U.S. defeat Australia. The free outdoor watch party featured two large screens, giveaways, food and beverages, merchandise and other familyfriendly activities.
The large turnout underscored the growing popularity of soccer on Long Island and prompted organizers to continue the series with additional watch parties as the U.S. advanced through the tournament.
“This first event showed exactly what we’ve known all along, that Long Island is ready to rally around this game in a big way,” Travis Lamprecht, president of business operations for The Island FC, said in a release. “To see more than 6,700 people come together was special, and it reinforced how strong the soccer community is here. We’re excited to keep building these moments with our fans and partners across Nassau County.”
Fans spread blankets and lawn chairs across the theater lawn as they watched the match, creating a festivallike atmosphere. Throughout the evening, supporters cheered goals and key plays while children participated in activities surrounding the venue.
During the July 1 match, the U.S. opened the scoring on goals by Folarin Balogun, then held on through a physical second half after Balogun was sent off with a red card. Despite playing a man down, the U.S. defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina, 2-0, following another goal by Malik Tillman, in the Round of 32 knockout game, securing a spot in the Round of 16.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said the event highlighted both community pride and the excitement surrounding international soccer.
“The energy and turnout at our first event were outstanding,” Blakeman said. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, this is a great opportunity for Nassau County residents to come together, support Team USA, and experience the excitement of the World Cup right here in Eisenhower Park, the centerpiece of our county parks system. We’re proud to partner with The Island FC once again to welcome families and fans from across the region for another special evening.”
The gathering also reflected Long Island’s expanding role in the sport ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with
local organizations continuing to promote soccer through community events and youth engagement. The Island FC, an official MLS NEXT Pro club, plans to launch its professional team in 2027 as part of its effort to create a pathway from youth soccer to the professional level.
The U.S. fell to Belgium, 4-1, in a Round of 16 knockout game on July 6, ending its run in the 2026 World Cup.
Ten-year-old twins, Sebastian and Sophia Mateo, from Bayport, played around with a soccer ball during the watch party.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Friends and fans from all over, including East Meadow, Hempstead and Uniondale, packed into the spirted watch party.
Brothers from East Meadow Iban Aguilar, 9, and Noah Aguilar, 4, were among many patriotic fans during the U.S. versus Bosnia and Herzegovina watch party on July 1.
Ricardo Ventura, with his son Javier, 1, were all smiles watching the U.S. Men’s National team leave the pitch with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
JULY 9, 2026
Cover Story
Summer in motion Fitness beyond
Longer days, warm temperatures and abundant sunshine make summer an ideal season to take your fitness routine outdoors. Whether it’s a morning run or walk along the boardwalk, a bike ride, a game of tennis or pickleball, yoga on the beach, or even a family hike, exercising outside o ers both physical and mental health benefits.
An outdoor workout does more than change your scenery. Exercising outdoors has been linked to improved mood, lowered stress, better cardiovascular health, and more motivation to move consistently. Even walking outside can be an excellent workout, especially when you do it regularly. Fresh air and a change of scenery can make workouts feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable part of your day.
Of course, summer’s relaxed pace — complete with vacations, barbecues, beach days and social gatherings — can sometimes derail even the best fitness intentions. The key is finding ways to incorporate activity into seasonal routines while taking precautions against heat and sun exposure.
Beat the heat
Summer temperatures can quickly turn a workout into a health risk. Exercising during the hottest parts of the day can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
Whenever possible, schedule outdoor activities during the cooler morning or evening hours, typically before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Check the heat index before heading outside, and if temperatures or humidity levels are extreme, consider moving your workout indoors to an air-conditioned gym, recreation center or your own home.
Watch for warning signs of heatrelated illness, including dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive fatigue, muscle cramps or confusion. If symptoms occur, stop exercising immediately, move to a cool location and rehydrate.
Protect your skin
While we all love being outside, the sun doesn’t love us. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Health experts recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 about 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating heavily.
Additional protection includes wearing lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Light-colored fabrics help reflect heat and keep the
body cooler during outdoor activities.
Hydration matters
Proper hydration is essential yearround, but it becomes especially important during the summer months.
The American College of Sports Medicine recommends drinking approximately three to eight ounces of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes during exercise, depending on intensity and environmental conditions. For prolonged or high-intensity workouts lasting more than an hour, sports drinks may help replace electrolytes lost through sweat.
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Thirst is often a sign that dehydration has already begun. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink fluids before, during and after physical activity.
After exercise, experts recommend consuming 20 to 24 ounces of water or a sports beverage for every pound of body weight lost during exercise.
Don’t skip the warm-up
Warm weather doesn’t eliminate the need to prepare your body for exercise. A proper warm-up gradually increases heart rate, loosens muscles and improves flexibility, helping reduce the risk of strains and injuries.
Spend five to 10 minutes performing light aerobic activity such as brisk walking, followed by dynamic stretches that target the muscles you’ll be using during your workout. Cooling down afterward is equally important and can help prevent sti ness and aid recovery.
Try something new
Summer o ers endless opportunities to shake up your exercise routine. Trying new activities can prevent boredom and challenge di erent muscle groups.
Consider adding activities such as:
• Walking or jogging on local trails
• Swimming or water aerobics
• Outdoor yoga classes
• Kayaking or paddleboarding
• Hiking
• Recreational sports leagues
Our parks, beaches and community organizations also o er free or low-cost fitness classes throughout the summer. Rev up the heart and cardiovascular system with sports you can play in the great outdoors. Eschew indoor racquetball for a game on an outdoor court. Try pickleball instead.
It’s easy to break a sweat and enjoy a good workout when a game of hoops is taken outdoors. Head out to your nearby park and check out the action on the basketball courts. Pickup football or baseball is another way to enjoy physical activity outdoors, especially for those who may not be gym hounds. Both sports provide a cardiovascular workout while building muscle. When you’re
engrossed in the game, you’re having fun and getting fit at the same time.
Even consider using items in your favored park to tailor a complete workout. Park benches can serve as a workout bench where athletes can do push-ups, triceps dips and step-up exercises. Stretch on a jungle gym or use monkey bars to fit in some pull-ups.
You’ll find that some parks even have their own fitness zones with exercise equipment built into the design.
Hike on! A nearby park or preserve that features walking trails is a good place to begin an outdoor workout. Some parks build exercise stations into their hiking paths, enabling visitors to vary their workouts along the way. Signs may also point out particular exercises that can be done during the hike, such as lunges or squats.
Hiking is a good cardiovascular workout that is particularly beneficial when done on varied terrain. Mixing uphill and downhill portions of the trail with level ones will work the various muscles in the legs and also provide greater resistance to get the heart pumping.
Take advantage of the beach
We’re surrounded by beaches, so make the most of our environment! After all, that’s one of the best features about living on Long Island. The beach provides much more than a place to relax. It can also serve as a natural fitness center.
Swimming in the ocean provides a full-body workout, as the resistance created by waves and currents challenges muscles while the water’s buoyancy reduces stress on joints. Water workouts are especially beneficial for older adults and those with arthritis or mobility concerns.
Walking or running on sand requires more effort than exercising on pavement because the unstable surface engages additional muscles in the legs,
core and hips.
As a result, beach workouts can improve strength, balance and cardiovascular fitness.
Even active beach outings that involve carrying chairs, coolers, umbrellas and beach gear can contribute to daily physical activity goals.
Keep moving all summer long
Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with musclestrengthening activities on two or more days, according to federal health guidelines.
Summer is the perfect season
to reconnect with the outdoors and discover enjoyable ways to stay active. By taking sensible precautions, staying hydrated and making movement part of everyday life, you can enjoy all the benefits of the season while supporting your long-term health and wellness.
The Best Outdoor Workouts to Try
1. Trail Running
What it works: Lower body, core, and cardiovascular system
Benefits: Trail running demands balance, coordination, and strength. Unlike conditions on a flat road or treadmill, trail running requires more physical effort,
Cedrina Calder, M.D., a boardcertified preventive medicine physician and fitness professional says.
“The balance and stability required on the trail engages and strengthens your core muscles. It also requires greater use of your lower limb muscles, including the glutes, quads, and calves.”
Trail running can also support mental health and often feels more engaging than repeating laps on a track.
“It requires 100-percent mental focus — or you subject yourself to a tumble,” says fitness expert Tina Vindum, M.S., C.P.T.
A 2020 study published in BMC Public Health found that people who completed at least 6.5 miles of trail running reported higher wellness and health scores. Additional research suggests that spending 90 minutes moving in nature can help reduce depressive rumination.
Beginner tips: Start with wellmarked trails and shorter distances, focusing on time on feet rather than pace. Keep your eyes a few feet ahead, shorten your stride, and use walking breaks on steep hills to manage intensity and protect your knees.
2. Surfing
What it works: Upper body, core, anaerobic conditioning, and balance Benefits: Surfing blends aerobic paddling with short bursts of anaerobic effort that feel similar to a HIIT routine.
“It’s a great anaerobic exercise that will help strengthen the trapezius, abdominals, and obliques, as well as the lats, triceps, biceps, and deltoids,” Jimmy Minardi, C.P.T., founder of Minardi Training, says.
Water-based workouts can offer a powerful reset and stress relief in ways a gym can’t match. “I can tell you one thing after being a devout surfer for [many] years, the tranquil and buoyant qualities of being in the water lift your spirits up,” Minardi said.
Beginner tips: Work with a certified instructor and start on smaller waves. Always check tides, weather, and surf conditions and wear appropriate safety
gear, such as a leash and personal flotation device.
3. Hiking
What it works: Cardiovascular system, lower body, and aerobic endurance Benefits: Hiking intensity is highly customizable, making it an accessible outdoor workout.
“Hiking can be a great cardio workout as long as it’s intense enough to significantly raise your heart rate and respiratory rate,” Calder says.
Elevation gain, speed, and pack weight all influence intensity, allowing you to progressively increase the challenge as your fitness improves. Beyond fitness, hiking encourages mindfulness and sensory awareness in a natural environment. Spending time on the trail can also help reduce stress, support mental health, and improve sleep.
Beginner tips: Choose shorter trails with minimal elevation gain and use hiking poles if knee comfort is a concern. Wear supportive footwear, carry water, and plan your route so you finish before dark and avoid extreme heat.
Photo by Marcel Straub Summer is an ideal time to trade the treadmill for trails, parks, beaches and other outside paces. Outdoor fitness routines can help turn exercise into an enjoyable part of everyday life
Join
MLong Beach Boardwalk
health screenings at Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Wellness Center
ount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Wellness Center, 106 Boardwalk in Long Beach, is open all summer to help you enjoy the season safely. Stop in for no-cost health screenings. (See a full list of hours and screenings below.)
To make safety a priority, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s experts have compiled these important summer safety tips:
1. Tick Bites, Bee Stings and Insect Bites: One of the best ways to avoid ticks, mosquitoes, bees, and other insects is to apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, skin-friendly picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus onto clothing and exposed parts of your body. Other steps include:
Wear light, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes/sneakers when hiking or gardening to reduce exposed skin areas.
2. Sunburn: When the skin — the body’s largest organ — soaks up the sun, it helps produce vitamin D, which is vital to maintaining a healthy calcium balance, immunity, blood pressure, and insulin secretion. When skin is repeatedly exposed to the sun for extended periods of time, the risk can far outweigh the reward.
The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends you:
• Minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects against both harmful UVA and UVB rays to every part of your body exposed to the sun
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days
• Wear clothing that covers the body and shades the face
• Schedule an annual skin cancer screening
3. Water and Pool Safety: Whether spending time in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat:
• Never leave a child unsupervised near or around any water source
• Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets during boating and fishing activities
• Keep a safe distance from boat propellers
• Learn CPR, especially if you and your family participate in water activities
Orthopedic Injuries: More than half of all sports and recreation-related injuries are preventable, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To reduce your risk of injury:
• Warm up first: perform gentle stretches before playing, practicing, or training
• Diversify training by alternating exercises like walking, jogging, biking, or weightlifting
• If you feel pain, soreness, or tightness, stop! Early
Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Education team is hosting daily health education and screening events throughout the summer at the Community Wellness Center located at 106 Boardwalk on the Long Beach
intervention is key to avoiding further injury
4. Dehydration: Symptoms of dehydration may include some or all of the following: lethargy, dizziness, deep or rapid breathing, muscle cramps, dry mouth and nose, and a drop in blood pressure. Prevent dehydration by drinking six to eight cups of water per day; avoid consumption of tea, coffee, soda, or alcohol on hot days or during recreational activities; and take a break from the sun and heat in a cool, shaded area
5. Picnic Food Preparation and Storage: Food that is not prepared and stored properly is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. For a safe picnic:
• Wrap uncooked chicken and meats in separate tightly sealed bags or containers and place them at the bottom of the cooler
• Store foods with mayonnaise in the cooler and be sure to serve them on platters that are chilled by ice-filled salad bowls
• Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot
• Freeze foods that are prepared more than one day in advance of the picnic
• Discard all leftovers
The Community Wellness Center, a service of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Community Education, is offering daily health education and screening events throughout the summer and early fall. This includes:
Monday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — EKG screenings for student athletes, ages 13-25 (registration is required)
9 a.m.-2 p.m.— Narcan and Stop the Bleed training*
Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — How to take your blood pressure at home*
9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Healthy eating and teddy bear clinic for kids*
= 30- to 60-minute sessions provided within the timeframe
The Center also offers free blood pressure, colorectal, memory, body mass index, diabetes risk, and stroke risk screenings Monday-Friday, 9 am-2 pm. The Center does not provide medical care. For more information, call the Department of Community Education at (516) 377-5333 or follow us on Facebook.
Boardwalk
Join Us at the Mount Sinai South Nassau Community Wellness Center for Daily Health Screenings and Community Education Events
106 East Boardwalk, Long Beach
(Between Long Beach Blvd. & Riverside Blvd. Enter via ramp at boardwalk level )
June 1- September 4, 2026
EKG Screenings for Students Ages 13-25 (pre-registration required) | 9 am - 2 pm
Narcan and Stop the Bleed Training* | 9 am - 2 pm
*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.
CPR/BLS Certification (pre-registration required) | 10 am - 12 pm
Blood Test (Diabetes, PSA, Cholesterol) | Call 516-377-5333 to schedule
Blood Pressure Cuff Loaner Program* | 9 am - 2 pm
*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.
*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.
Blood Test (Diabetes, PSA, Cholesterol) | Call 516-377-5333 to schedule
How to Take Your Blood Pressure at Home* | 9 am - 2 pm
Healthy Eating & Teddy Bear Clinic for Kids* | 9 am - 2 pm
*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.
We also offer FREE Health Screenings (Monday - Friday, 9 am - 2 pm) including:
• Blood Pressure
• Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Colorectal Screening
• Diabetes Risk Assessment
• Memory Screening
• Stroke Risk Assessment
We are also offering COVID-19, Shingles, and Pneumonia Vaccines. For more information about the program, please call 516-377-5333
Programs subject to change. Please refer to our Facebook page @MountSinaiSouthNassau for weekly schedule.
This is not a patient care facility. In case of emergency, please call 911.
Be sun smart
Take precautions so that the sun is friend not foe
For many people, summer means long days spent outdoors relaxing at the beach, boating on the water, tending the garden, enjoying backyard barbecues or simply lounging by the pool. While sunshine can lift our spirits and encourage us to be active, too much exposure to the sun can have serious consequences for our health.
A moderate amount of sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function. But excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage the skin and eyes, increase the risk of heat-related illness and significantly raise the likelihood of developing skin cancer.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting millions of Americans each year.
Fortunately, many cases are preventable with proper sun protection. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the golf course, a summer concert or simply spending time in your backyard, taking a few simple precautions can help you enjoy the season safely.
Have your fun but proceed with caution
Many folks take sunburn lightly, viewing it as an inevitable part of summer. But sunburn is much more than a temporary inconvenience.
Sunburn is actually a radiation burn caused by overexposure to UV rays. Depending on its severity, a sunburn can range from mild redness and tenderness to painful blistering and swelling. Severe sunburn may even require medical attention.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that sunburn remains common among both adults and children. Yet every sunburn causes damage to skin cells.
Much of that damage cannot be seen immediately. Ultraviolet radiation penetrates the skin and can alter the DNA inside skin cells. Over time, this cumulative damage contributes to premature aging, wrinkles, age spots, loss of skin elasticity and an increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Because UV damage accumulates over a lifetime, practicing sun safety is important at every age.
Avoid the burn
Sunburn is one of the most preventable summertime health risks. It’s also important to remember that UV exposure occurs year-round not just on hot, sunny days. Up to 80 percent of UV rays can penetrate clouds,
and reflective surfaces such as water, sand, concrete and snow can intensify exposure.
We all know by now that artificial UV sources, including tanning beds and sun lamps, are also dangerous. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and dermatologists strongly discourage indoor tanning because it significantly increases skin cancer risk.
Seek shade
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, limit prolonged outdoor activity during these peak hours.
If you are outside, take frequent breaks in the shade beneath a tree, umbrella, canopy or other shelter. Planning outdoor exercise, yard work or recreational activities during the early morning or evening hours can also help reduce UV exposure and lower the risk of heat-related illness.
Cover up
Clothing provides one of the simplest and most effective forms of sun protection.
Choose lightweight, loose-fitting garments that cover as much skin as possible, including long-sleeved shirts and long pants when practical. Densely woven, tightly constructed fabrics generally offer better protection than loosely woven materials.
Many outdoor clothing manufacturers now offer apparel with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, or UPF, rating. UPF indicates how effectively fabric blocks UV radiation.
Clothing with a UPF rating of 30 to 50 or higher provides excellent protection. Darker colors and brighter fabrics typically absorb more UV rays than pale colors, while tightly woven materials outperform sheer or loosely
woven fabrics.
Complete your sun-protective wardrobe with a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck.
Wear sunscreen — and reapply it
Sunscreen is an essential part of any sun safety strategy, but it should not be your only line of defense.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Broad-spectrum products protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer. Both types of UV radiation can damage skin cells and increase cancer risk.
Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin about 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Most adults need approximately one ounce about enough to fill a shot glass to adequately cover the body.
Don’t overlook commonly missed areas, including:
• Ears
• Back of the neck
• Scalp or part line
• Tops of the feet
• Hands
• Lips
• Around the eyes
Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Forget the ‘base tan’
Many people believe that obtaining a “base tan” before summer will protect against future sunburn. Experts say this is a myth.
A tan is actually a sign that the skin has already been damaged by UV radiation. When exposed to sunlight, the skin produces additional melanin pigment in an attempt to shield itself from further injury.
There is no such thing as a healthy tan. Any tanning or burning represents skin damage that can accumulate over time and increase skin cancer risk.
The safest way to achieve a sunkissed appearance is to use sunless self-tanning products rather than UV exposure.
Protect your eyes
The sun can damage the eyes as well as the skin.
Long-term exposure to UV radiation has been linked to cataracts, macular degeneration and certain cancers of the eyelid and eye.
Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays whenever you are outdoors. Wraparound styles offer additional protection by limiting UV rays that enter from the sides.
Children require extra precautions
Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to sun damage because their skin is thinner and more sensitive.
Babies younger than six months should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible. Use shade, protective clothing and hats to shield infants from UV exposure.
For older infants and children, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, dress them in protective clothing and encourage regular hydration during outdoor play.
Teaching children healthy sun habits early can help reduce their lifetime risk of skin cancer.
Know when to seek medical care
Most sunburns can be treated at home with cool compresses, moisturizers, hydration and overthe-counter pain relievers. However, seek medical attention if sunburn is accompanied by:
• Extensive blistering
• Fever or chills
• Severe pain
• Confusion or dizziness
• Signs of dehydration
• Nausea or vomiting
Summer is meant to be enjoyed. By seeking shade, covering up, wearing sunscreen and practicing smart sun habits, you can safely soak up the season while protecting your health for years to come
As great as the sun feels, it poses serious threats to your health and appearance. Have your time in the sun while sparing your skin from damage and overall harm to your body.
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
AGENDA:
Register for this FREE event:
rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273
things to know clarke robotics
Clarke robotics teams engineer another winning season
By JORDAN VALLONE
jvallone@liherald.com
W.T. Clarke Middle School’s Lego Robotics teams proved once again that preparation, creativity and teamwork can produce championship results, as all four Clarke teams advanced to the playoffs and finished among the top six teams at a competition held May 31 at Adelphi University. The standout performance included a repeat championship, a special design award and several deep playoff runs, highlighting the continued success of the school’s robotics program.
Fantastic 5 repeats as champions
The Fantastic 5 led Clarke’s charge, capturing first place for the second consecutive year and earning the competition’s Mastermind Award. Team members Kyle Krauz, Natalie Calabrese, Arissa Qu, Nirav Nataraj and Mathias Villanueva impressed judges with their robot’s performance, strategic thinking and ability to adapt throughout the day’s challenges. The championship added another milestone to the team’s growing list of accomplishments. Over the past two years, The Fantastic 5 has collected four trophies, establishing itself as one of the event’s most successful teams. Their repeat title reflected months of testing, redesigning and refining their robot, as well as the strong communication and teamwork that helped them navigate a highly competitive field.
Clarke teams shine throughout playoffs
While The Fantastic 5 brought home the top trophy, Clarke’s other teams delivered impressive performances of their own. The Ram Bots — Sara Bhosale, Bethany Base and Joy Shin — earned the Ingenuity Award for a robot design judges praised as one of the competition’s most creative and effective. The Circuit Crusaders, made up of Hridhaan Shetty, Mohammad Islam, Daniel Zheng, Liam Verceles and Ronan Olivares, secured the tournament’s third seed after a series of dominant victories and advanced deep into the playoffs. The Robo Rams — Miguel Bagtas, Aaron Faraz, Aydin Rahman and Brayden Guaman Merchan — also made a strong run, recording several upset victories before narrowly falling in a dramatic sudden-death matchup against another Clarke team.
Program
School officials said the results reflected the dedication students invested throughout the season and the strength of the robotics program at W.T. Clarke Middle School. Beyond competition day, students spent months designing, building and programming their robots while learning valuable lessons in problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration. Teams regularly tested their designs, analyzed results and made adjustments to improve performance, mirroring the engineering process used by professionals in the field. Teachers and coaches guided students through every stage of preparation, helping them develop both technical skills and confidence. The school celebrated the students’ accomplishments as a testament to their passion for STEM learning.
Inspirational drawings from our youngest readers
Ashly R. 6th G W. Babylon Junior High School
Keilani C. 5th G California Ave. School
Rubi 4th G California Ave. School
Jayden C. 2nd G California Ave. School
Anabelle D. 6th G W. Babylon Junior High School
Karol M. 4th G California Ave. School
Mila O. 4th G California Ave. School
Janelle H. 3rd G California Ave. School
Samantha P. 6th G W. Babylon Junior High School
Mia H. 6th G West Babylon Junior High School
Mia A. 6th G West Babylon Junior High School
Jocelyn C. 5th G California Ave. School
AMERICA
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Between 1860 and 1942, agriculture remained a defining part of life on Long Island across Nassau and Suffolk counties. During the same period, transportation improvements and expanding connections to New York City began shaping economic changes that would influence Long Island’s future development.
According to the Long Island Farm Bureau, agriculture has been an important industry on Long Island since the earliest periods of Native American cultivation and European settlement.
Before European settlement, the 60,000-acre Hempstead Plains in Nassau — the largest natural prairie east of the Mississippi River — served Indigenous peoples as a vital landscape for hunting, gathering and managing natural resources. English colonists later used the expansive grasslands to graze livestock, establishing agriculture as one of the area’s earliest industries.
The organization reports that fertile soils, access to fresh water, and proximity to major markets helped make Long Island one of New York State’s most significant agricultural regions. The Farm Bureau notes that farmers produced a wide range of crops and agricultural products, including vegetables, potatoes, fruits, poultry, livestock and shellfish.
Historical records published by the Town of Brookhaven show that early residents were primarily engaged in farming, fishing and whaling. The town’s historical records further indicate that additional industries developed during the nineteenth century, but agriculture remained an important part of the local economy.
Transportation became an increasingly important factor in the region’s development. According to the Town of Brookhaven’s historical overview, the arrival of the Long Island Rail Road during the mid-19th century made travel and the movement of goods faster and easier. Historical records of Long Island transportation show that rail service reached the eastern end of
Farming fueled Long Island before suburbia
Angelina Zingariello/Herald While the landscape and industries of Long Island have changed over the years, the East End holds onto its farming roots. Every spring, the Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden in Manorville plants over a million tulips for the annual Tulip Festival.
the island in 1844, creating stronger links between rural communities and larger markets.
By the late 19th century, however, parts of Nassau County’s rural landscape were undergoing dramatic change as wealthy industrialists purchased North Shore farmland to build lavish country estates, creating the famed Gold Coast.
Even as the North Shore evolved, farming remained a dominant force across central Long Island. Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th century, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potato-producing regions.
Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th century, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potatoproducing regions.
Farming remained a dominant force across central Long Island. Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th centu-
ry, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potato-producing regions. Thousands of acres were planted with potatoes, supporting a thriving agricultural economy and supplying markets throughout the Northeast.
While much of eastern Suffolk County remained rural during this period, signs of long-term change were emerging. Historical information published by the Town of Brookhaven states that the 20th century witnessed the town’s expansion from an agrarian community into a more diversified economy.
The transition had not yet fully occurred between 1860 and 1942, but the transportation networks and market connections established during those years
helped shape the conditions under which later development would occur.
Manorville itself retained strong agricultural roots. Historical accounts of the hamlet describe it as a farming community for many years, reflecting the broader agricultural character that defined much of central and eastern Suffolk County during the late 19th and early 20 centuries.
That era began to fade after World War II. As returning veterans fueled an unprecedented demand for housing, farmland rapidly disappeared beneath subdivisions, highways and commercial development. The transformation was perhaps most evident in Levittown, where beginning in 1947 more than 4,000 acres of former potato fields were converted into what became the nation’s most iconic suburban development, symbolizing the shift from an agricultural landscape to the suburban Long Island recognized today.
AMERICA
ABy BRIAN KACHARABA, ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & LAYLA EASON
of the Herald
cross Long Island, history is not just preserved — it is built into the landmarks that still stand in its villages, harbors, downtowns, and shorelines, where centuries of American life are reflected in manor houses, churches, libraries, museums, crossroads, and memorials.
Together, these sites form a living timeline of the nation’s past, showing how Long Island evolved alongside the United States over more than 300 years.
One of the earliest stories begins in Bay Shore at Sagtikos Manor, one of Suffolk County’s oldest surviving structures. Built around 1697 by Stephanus Van Cortlandt, New York City’s first native-born mayor, the manor grew from a colonial estate into one of the region’s most enduring landmarks.
During the American Revolution, British forces occupied the property, placing it directly within the war’s contested landscape. In the early years of the republic, the manor is also associated with President George Washington, who stayed there for one night during his 1790 tour of Long Island, further linking the site to the nation’s founding era and its first presidential administration.
In Massapequa, Old Grace Church, established in 1844 on land donated by General Thomas Floyd-Jones, preserves nearly two centuries of community life and remains a lasting symbol of the area’s early settlement era. Nearby, the Elbert Floyd-Jones Servants Cottage,
1 2 3
Landmarks define Long Island’s history
built around 1870, survives as one of the few remnants of Massapequa’s grand estate period, offering a rare glimpse into daily life on Long Island’s 19th-century South Shore estates.
The Phillips House Museum in Rockville Centre, built in 1882 and once home to village founder James Phillips, reflects the community’s late-19th-century growth driven by commerce and transportation. Saved from demolition in the 1970s and restored during the Bicentennial era, it now stands as one of New York’s premier small historic museums.
Long Island’s rise to national prominence is reflected at Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, built between 1884 and 1885 for Theodore Roosevelt. The Queen Annestyle home served as both his family residence and Summer White House, where policy and diplomacy shaped the Progressive Era. Today, it remains a National Historic Site and one of the country’s most significant presidential homes.
The growth of suburban Long Island is traced to Pearsall’s Corners, later Lynbrook, where a 19th-century crossroads centered on the Pearsall family store evolved into a stagecoach and railroad hub. With the arrival of the South Side Railroad, the community expanded rapidly and adopted the name Lynbrook in 1894, marking its transformation from rural hamlet to suburban village.
In Massapequa, the Delancey FloydJones Free Library, built in 1896, became the community’s first public library and remained its only one for more than 50 years. Now preserved within the Massapequa Historical Society Historic Complex, it reflects the rise
of civic institutions across Long Island.
On the South Shore, Long Beach reflects early 20th-century coastal planning. The home at 226 W. Penn Street, built in 1909 as part of William H. Reynolds’ resort vision, is one of the city’s earliest surviving structures. Now the Long Beach Historical Museum, it preserves the story of a barrier island community that grew from seasonal destination to year-round city.
The North Shore Historical Museum in Glen Cove occupies the former 1907 Justices Court Building, a State and National Register landmark that preserves the legacy of the Gold Coast era. In nearby Sea Cliff, the Village Museum—founded in 1979 and housed in a former Methodist church—continues that preservation effort through extensive archives of photographs, artifacts, and village records.
In Freeport, history spans multiple eras. A historic marker at Babylon Turnpike and Lakeview Avenue commemorates Washington’s passage through Long Island during his 1790 tour, linking the village to the nation’s earliest years. Nearby, the World War II memorial honors local service members who fought in the nation’s defining 20thcentury conflict, while the Vietnam War memorial stone at the Freeport Memorial Library stands as a tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, these landmarks underscore a simple truth: history is not confined to textbooks. It continues to live in the buildings, streets, and communities that shaped Long Island — and helped
shape the nation itself.
Photo 1 - Sagtikos Manor in Bay Shore, built around 1697, stands as one of Suffolk County’s oldest surviving homes and a rare link to Long Island’s colonial, Revolutionary War, and early presidential history.
Brian Kacharaba/Herald
Photo 2 - The World War II memorial plaque in Freeport honors residents who served and sacrificed during the conflict.
Layla Eason/Herald
Photo 3 - Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, the longtime home of President Theodore Roosevelt, reflects Long Island’s role in American leadership history and served as his residence and “Summer White House” during his presidency.
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs
Photo 4 - A historic marker at Babylon Turnpike and Lakeview Avenue in Freeport commemorates President George Washington’s passage through the area during his 1790 tour of Long Island.
Layla Eason/Herald
Photo 5 - The Old Grace Church in Massapequa traces its roots to 1844, where community members gathered to establish an Episcopal church closer to home rather than traveling to Hempstead for worship.
Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald
Photo 6 - Built in 1882, the Victorian home now housing the Phillips House Museum was once owned by sea captain and village founder James Phillips, whose family played a key role in the early development of Rockville Centre as a growing center of commerce and banking.
Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald
By Leah Ramai (Hunter) Sewanhaka High School freshman
High School
Reader, three centuries is a long time.
Aridiculous amount of possibilities could generally happen. Robots mating and artificial intelligence becoming the structure of everything.
America at 300. It’s long enough for your name to become dust. Long enough for every person you have ever loved to disappear. Long enough for your bedroom to become a room nobody remembers belonged to you. Long enough for the sound of your laughter to vanish from the earth entirely.
And perhaps, before you continue reading, I ask something of you. Look at your mother. Look at the shine in her eyes. The bliss, the warmth in her hugs. Look at your father. His tired eyes of making income and he doesn’t get a minute to himself. Not as parents. Not as permanent figures suspended safely in the background of your life. Look at them as people. As living things, imagine the lines of their faces softened by time until even memory struggles to hold them together. Imagine the sound of their voices becoming some-
AMERICA America at its 300th anniversary
thing distant. Imagine reaching for a memory and discovering it has begun to fade. That it simply doesn’t exist anymore. Where do these memories go? Certainly not in the future. Horrifying, isn’t it? Yet this is not fantasy. This is not horror fiction. This is reality moving exactly as it always has, because time does not wait for anyone whatsoever.
When people speak of America 300 years from now, they speak of progress. They speak of technology, discovery, innovation, and futures polished bright enough to distract themselves from the darkness beneath them. The good and positives. Yet I find myself haunted by something far quieter. Far more patient. The casualties time leaves behind.
How many voices will history never bother to remember? How many political figures will be jacks of spades in newspapers and magazines. How many poets will spend entire lifetimes filling notebooks only for their words to disappear without ceremony?
How many artists will devote themselves to beauty only for time to consume their work without even acknowledging it existed? Somewhere tonight, a child is creating something absolutely extraordinary. Somewhere, a story capable of changing a life is being written for the very first time. And somewhere else, another story dies before it is ever born. Reader that should terrify you. Not because it is unlikely. Because it is ordinary for dreams to never be pursued.
That is what makes humanity sacred. Not permanence. Not survival. Not the illusion that anything was
ever promised forever. If life stretched endlessly before us, love would become weightless. If grief did not exist, devotion would mean nothing. If death never arrived, neither would urgency, nor wonder, nor the desperate and beautiful need to create something before time steals the opportunity away.
It isn’t the fear of leaving, but leaving behind something utterly unfathomable, Humanity. Edgar Allan Poe understood this. Mary Shelley understood this. Beneath every graveyard, every ghost, every monster stitched together from pieces of the dead, there lingers the same unbearable realization. Existence is precious because it ends.
America, 300 years from now, will not be measured by what it builds. It will be measured by what it remembers. By whether someone still believes stories matter. By whether a child still stays awake long after midnight scribbling poems in a notebook because their heart feels too large for silence, deeply madly in love. Love, will you still feel the same flutter in your heart.
It’s chronically insane, isn’t it reader? To have to ask if a feeling would still sit in your anatomy because of how the world can change. By whether humanity still possesses the courage to create despite knowing everything eventually disappears. Knowing you have a purpose, but genuinely? It will end one day. Because the greatest horror has never been death. It has always been reaching the end of a life without leaving behind proof that you were here at all.
Look into the future
Photo: Credit: Courtesy Sewanhaka
LeaH Ramai (HunteR)
AMERICA
YBy JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
It is nearly impossible to discuss American literary history without mentioning Walt Whitman. Often called “America’s poet,” Whitman left a lasting mark as a writer, journalist and teacher, with a legacy deeply woven into both the nation’s history and Long Island’s own.
Born in what is now Huntington Station in 1819, Whitman came from a family whose Long Island roots stretched back to the 17th century. Though the family moved to Brooklyn when he was young, the island remained part of his foundation. His formal schooling ended at 11, but his education continued in print shops, newsrooms and city streets, where he developed a lifelong appetite for language, politics and the lives of ordinary people.
ou cannot really understand America... without ‘Leaves of Grass.’
MARY BERENsON
Art historian
As a teenager and young adult, Whitman worked as a printer, teacher and journalist across Long Island and New York City. When he returned to Huntington, he founded The Long-Islander, a local newspaper that is still being published.
His formative years placed Whitman in close contact with people from every corner of American life: laborers, commuters, families, readers, voters and strangers passing through the world around him. That broad human canvas helped shape the ideals that came to define his poetry — a sweeping appreciation for everyday Americans.
Whitman carried those influences into “Leaves of Grass,” the collection he first published in 1855 and continued revising until his death in 1892. What began as a slim, unconventional volume grew into a sweeping body of work that challenged literary traditions and helped redefine what American poetry could sound like.
Much of Whitman’s work opens a window onto everyday American life, but “Song of Myself” may be his most expansive expression of that vision. In it, the speaker stretches beyond the individual, seeing himself reflected in all people and all things — a voice that is deeply personal and collective.
The poem stands apart for its bold embrace of the body, its deep connection to the natural world and its insistence on elevating the ordinary individual.
“Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same,”
Long Island’s own Walt Whitman helped give America its voice
Courtesy Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, Gottscho-Schleisner Collection [LC-USZC2-4855]
Walt Whitman, one of America’s most renowned poets, taught at a summer school in Woodbury in 1840. The school building, erected in 1807, was acquired by Alexander M. White around 1927, who moved it to his estate in Oyster Bay Cove. The desk from the schoolhouse once used by Whitman is now at his birthplace, a historic site, in Huntington Station.
Whitman writes — a line that captures the layered, generational nature of belonging. It suggests how roots are formed not only through family, but through the places people claim as home. For Whitman, one of those places was Long Island.
Today, the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association maintains the New York state historic site Whitman was born in. Open to the public for tours, the home provides Long Islanders with insight into his early childhood, which influenced his work. Tours run daily in the summertime, and between Wednesdays and Sundays after Labor Day.
On the grounds of his original home is also an Interpretive Center, which opened in 1997, further allowing the birthplace association to build a tourist destination and regional hub for arts and literature, that offers unique, interdisciplinary programs.
“You cannot really understand America without Walt Whitman, without ‘Leaves of Grass’…” art historian Mary Berenson once wrote of the work, according to Whitman’s profile on Goodreads, a networking site for readers. “He has expressed that civilization, ‘up to date,’ as he would say, and no student of the philosophy of history can do without him.”
STEPPING OUT
Photos courtesy LICM
Young artists created colorful works during last summer’s ArtVentures. This year, the program is expanded into four categories and families can enjoy similar creative experiences.
Bright colors and creative techniques come together in the watercolor project, one of the hands-on activities Kids can experiment how colors react to elements, and other colors.
More than art
Cool off with an ‘Artventure’
By Stacy Driks
Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to put down the screens this summer, pick up a paintbrush and discover the many ways to create art.
With the launch of Summer ArtVentures [July 7], the museum expands its arts programming into a season-long celebration of imagination, hands-on learning and creative exploration four days a week.
Whether it’s experimenting with watercolor, building collages, sculpting with clay or creating artwork inspired by professionals, every visit offers something new.
The lineup grew from a pilot series the museum introduced last summer. After seeing children return week after week and hearing families ask for more opportunities to create, museum educators decided it was time to think bigger.
“We had such a positive reaction, people were asking if we could do them on other days and if we could offer more arts programming,” says Jeanmarie Walsh Mansfield, the museum’s director of visual arts and community initiatives. ”We found families kept coming back, and kids were building on what they learned from one week to the next.”
That enthusiasm inspired a full calendar of art experiences running throughout July and August, with activities designed to appeal to toddlers, schoolage children, teens and even adults.
Unlike traditional art classes, participants aren’t divided by age. Instead, everyone creates together in the same space, allowing each person to work at a level that’s comfortable while learning from one another.
“It’s sort of like an old-school classroom,” Mansfield says. “Kids of all ages learn with and from each other.”
Each Tuesday, the museum hosts Imagine That! Summer ArtVentures Workshops, where participants explore a different artistic medium or technique. One week may focus on collage, while another introduces mosaics, sculpture or animation. Before children begin creating, participants are introduced to artists whose work connects to that week’s project.
Some come from centuries ago, like Italian painter Giuseppe Arcimboldo, whose portraits famously transformed fruits, vegetables and other everyday objects into imaginative faces. Others are contemporary artists such as Octavio Ocampo, whose optical illusion paintings encourage viewers to look beyond first impressions.
Fireworks with the South Shore Symphony
“I want kids to learn that art can be much more than they think art is,” Mansfield says. “Art can be everywhere and made from anything. All you need is your creativity, your imagination and a willingness to experiment.”
Fridays offer Watercolor Wonder Pop-Ups, rotating through different galleries with new watercolor techniques and themes each week. One session explores the effects of salt on watercolor paint, while another teaches children how oil pastels and watercolor interact to create surprising results. Other activities draw inspiration from nature, encouraging families to experiment with flowers, color and texture.
What program is best for you?
• Tuesday: Imagine That ArtVentures workshops run from July 7 to Aug. 25, 1-3 p.m. Fee: $4 for children three and up.
• Friday: Watercolor Pop-Up run from July 10 to Aug. 28, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free with museum admission.
• Saturday: Amethyst Playground Pop-Up runs from July 11 to Aug. 1, noon-2 p.m. Free with museum admission.
• Monday: Squish Studio runs from July 27 to July 31, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Free with museum admission.
Still craving more fireworks? Rockville Centre’s annual celebration is just the ticket! Head to Pette and Barasch Fields for a festive evening with the South Shore Symphony, capped off by a spectacular Grucci fireworks display. It’s a beloved summertime tradition that brings together everyone for a rousing spectacle. Music Director Adam Glaser passes the baton to conductor Eileen Murphy who leads the orchestra in a program of Broadway hits, movie themes, pop hits, and patriotic standards. Selections include American Salute by Morton Gould, Suite from Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda, RimskyKorsakov’s Procession of Nobles, Sousa’s Washington Post March and John William’s Raiders March. The orchestra begins performing at 7:30 p.m., the fireworks begin at 9:15 and the orchestra continues after. Hosted by the Village of Rockville Centre and the Rockville Centre Guild for the Arts, this free event has been a favorite for more than 30 years. Admission is free and is open to everyone. Rain date is July 12.
Hope shows her art project inspired by Kelly Olshan’s “Amethyst Playground” exhibit.
On Saturdays, Amethyst Playground Pop-Up connects directly to the current Artists’ Corner exhibition by Kelly Olshan. Families transform leftover materials from the artist’s creative process into colorful magnets, demonstrating how everyday objects can become works of art.
For children who love getting their hands dirty, Squish Studio, running July 27 through 31, offers an entire week devoted to clay. Young artists can experiment with different tools, create personal sculptures and contribute to a collaborative creature that grows throughout the week.
Clay holds a special place for Mansfield.
“I’ve been wanting to do clay-based workshops for a long time,” she says. “Kids really respond to it. It’s intuitive, it’s hands-on, and it helps develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity.”
But the aim is for visitors leave with more than artwork to hang on the refrigerator.
Creating art helps children build confidence, develop criticalthinking skills and become more comfortable taking creative risks, Mansfield explains. Working alongside others also teaches collaboration, communication and problem-solving.
“Art making reduces anxiety,” she says. “It can be meditative. We know screens can increase anxiety, but when children are creating with their hands, they’re engaged, they’re present and they’re learning.”
Perhaps most importantly, art teaches children that mistakes aren’t something to fear.
“You fail sometimes,” Mansfield says. “You make something and it doesn’t come out the way you wanted. That’s an important life skill — mistakes are learning opportunities and that you can pivot and try something different.”
And the experience sparks curiosity. Rather than providing step-by-step instructions with one “correct” outcome, educators encourage children to ask questions, explore materials and decide for themselves what they want to create.
“There’s no wrong way to make art,” Mansfield says. “I want kids to push their boundaries and realize they’re artists.”
And this is only the beginning.
Museum leadership plans to further expand programming beyond the summer, with additional workshops during school breaks and perhaps a future art festival that celebrates creativity throughout the museum.
Until then, paint, sculpt, squish and create all summer — one colorful adventure at a time. For schedules, admission and registration information, visit licm.org.
Saturday, July 11, 7 p.m. Pette and Barasch Fields, 244 S. Park Ave, Rockville Centre. For more information, visit.rvcny.us.
The Bronx Wanderers
What do you get when a father, his two sons, and two high school classmates come together to create a show? A wildly entertaining mix of hilarious personal stories, a powerhouse playlist spanning every genre and decade, and one unforgettable family’s journey through life and music. Meet The Bronx Wanderers — a high-energy musical experience that’s been bringing audiences to their feet for over 20 years. With a unique blend of rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia, modern hits, and dynamic storytelling, this band has mastered the art of connecting with fans of all ages in one sweeping, musical tour de force. They’re still having the time of their lives — and by the end of the show, you will be too.
Sunday, July 12,7:30 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
jul
9
Oldies Concert
Eisenhower Park goes all out for an Oldies show. E’Stefano diSanto, Johnny Farina, Bobby Wilson, Vito Picone & The Elegants and The Brookly Bridge perform.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Lights, camera, Long Island!
The Long Island International Film Expo continues, bringing independent cinema from around the globe to local audiences. The diverse lineup includes documentaries, feature films, shorts, horror films, music videos and late-night screenings for mature audiences, along with workshops and more. Notable selections include “The Random Guest,” the final film featuring actor Peter Greene.
• Where: Bellmore Movies & Showplace, 222 PettitAve.,Bellmore
• Time: Varied, through July 16
• Contact: For a complete schedule and tickets, visit LIIFE2026.eventive.org
jul
10
‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’
The Madison Theatre’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” brings the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the stage, retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his colorful coat and his rise from slavery to Pharaoh’s trusted advisor. Told entirely through song, the family-friendly production features memorable numbers including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and “One More Angel in Heaven,” blending musical styles from calypso to country-western. Suitable for audiences of all ages, the show continues to be one of the world’s most frequently performed musicals.
• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Various dates and times, through Aug. 2
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
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Family theater Lance the Eagle welcomes families to “A Semi-QuincentenEAGLE Birthday” on the Long Island
Wild Child
Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: Movie begins at dusk
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
Citizen Science: Monarch Larva Monitoring Project
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to be a citizen scientist and study monarch butterflies in the museum’s Milkweed Garden. By measuring plants, rainfall, and monarch eggs you will be collecting real data that scientists can analyze! Your data will help them understand butterfly migration and will help conserve this species. Each Wednesday, take a walk through this garden and see how the plants grow as habitat for visiting monarchs! To join, meet at the front desk. For ages 4+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 2-3 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
jul
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
This is not a typical tribute or pretend concert act. Wild Child relies on recapturing the original: sound, feel, mood, dynamics and delivery of the Doors music. In true Doors fashion there are no: wigs, props, costumes, or phony banter between songs. It’s about the music and its delivery. Wild Child lead singer Dave Brock’s Doors tribute debuted with a triple sellout at the Whisky a-Go-Go. Since the band debuted, the act has been touring and playing at sold out national act venues and festivals around the world. Wild Child became the mold that “tribute bands” aspired to become, as they flooded the market in the 1990s with good and bad impersonations of famous artists. In 2010 Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors, invited Dave to tour with them as their vocalist on their concert engagements. This was perhaps the best compliment Dave has ever received from anyone for his work. Being selected by these two Rock ’n Roll Hall of Fame musicians was a huge honor; the ultimate compliment of his talents and speaks volumes for his credibility as a Doors style frontman and vocalist. Fans and critics alike praise Wild Child performances as the closest thing to a real 1960s Doors concert and live Doors experience.
Children’s Museum stage. In this original production, families are invited to celebrate his birthday. His message: As the national bird, this party will be happening throughout the whole month of July. Come to think of it, I did hear something about a birthday for the United States of America as well. Hmm... must be a coincidence! I’ll be throwing a parade through LICM’s galleries and a celebratory spectacle in the Theater. Come ready to party!” Keep an eye out 30 minutes before each show for a special interactive pre-show! For ages 3+. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also July 15
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Disco grooves
Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with Disco Unlimited. When Sista Soul, Sparkle Sista, Joe Cool, Strat Cat Ricky Smooth and The MacDaddy, all hit the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves.
And dance you will – when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
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2026 Summer Sing
Calling all singers! From experienced choral veterans to shower singers with a taste for the classics, all are welcome at Long Island Choral Society’s sing-in happening. The repertoire includes Faure Requiem and assorted choral works to honor America. Summer Sing is an opportunity for people who love to sing, love choral music or both to get together with likeminded individuals and sing some great musical compositions. It’s not a performance. There aren’t any rehearsals. There’s no audience. We just sing for our own enjoyment. Don’t worry if you don’t know all the notes. The point is not perfection, it is to have fun. Bring your own musical score or borrow one. $10 donation.
• Where: Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: LICS.org
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
jul 15
Nature Connects
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to spend an afternoon exploring, building and creating together! Seasonal Sprouts offers is a LEGO-themed adventure for young explorers. Children (ages 4–10) embark on a guided outdoor tour of Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects made with LEGO bricks. Everyone discovers the wonders of nature in a fun and hands-on way. After the tour, kids can unleash their creativity in a LEGO free-play area. $22 per adult, $20 ages 62+, $12 child. Registration required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 11 a.m.-noon and 2-3 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Family movie night
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. See “Gabby’s Dollhouse.” DreamWorks Animation brings its smash hit streaming series to life as a big adventure. The plot follows Gabby as she goes on a road trip with her grandmother to the urban wonderland of Cat Francisco and embarks on an adventure to save her dollhouse.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside
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Summertime tunes
Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with Corey Reimer and The Dilemma Band with Scarborough Fair for a Simon & Garfunkel tribute.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
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Happy Birthday, Franklin! Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to celebrate the Eastern Box Turtle’s 50th Birthday! Make him a one-of-akind cake craft inspired by all his favorite things! Come help honor 50 turtle-tastic years at the drop-in program. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 1-3 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
Construction, reduced fees at Lido Golf Club
By WESLEY SCHNELL of the Herald
Major renovations and improvements are coming to Lido Golf Club resulting in a decrease in greens fees, according to Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti.
Lido Golf Club is “one of the crown jewels of the Town of Hempstead” according to Ferretti, which is why the Hempstead Town Board will be implementing major upgrades to the course.
TIn 1942, The United States Navy acquired the property during World War II to construct a naval base. After the war in 1953, the course re-opened and was designed by golf course architect Robert Trent. With waterfront views, challenging layout and distinctive seaside character, the course has been a staple of the Town of Hempstead for many years.
announce the upcoming renovations and an associated discount on greens fees.
The first phase of the project will affect nine different holes throughout the course to improve playability, turf health and overall course conditions.
hese improvements demonstrate our commitment to preserving and enhancing this remarkable course.
JoHN FErrETTi Supervisor, Town of Hempstead
Ferretti and other Town Board members, including Town Clerk Kate Murray and Commissioner of Parks and Recreation William Hawkins, spoke at Lido Golf Club on Thursday to
“Temporary greens will be in effect on two of the nine holes, and shared greens will be in effect on the other seven,” Ferretti said. This allows for continuous play with no interruptions while the upgrades are completed.
“These improvements demonstrate our commitment to preserving and enhancing this remarkable course while keeping it affordable and accessible to the public,” Ferretti said.
Due to the potential disruption, greens fees will be reduced by 50 percent to encourage golfers to play the course during renovations. “We believe that when the course benefits, golfers should benefit as well,” said Ferretti.
The improvements will include an increase in the number of groundskeepers dedicated to maintaining the course. Pest control will be expanded to better
protect the health of the grounds and there will be major irrigation system improvements to promote healthier greens and fairways.
“This is about preserving a beloved public asset and supporting recreation
for years to come,” Ferretti said. “Our goal is simple: provide the best possible golf experience while keeping Lido Golf Course affordable, accessible and enjoyable. We appreciate all town golfers who will continue to golf here at Lido Golf.”
Wesley Schnell/Herald
Town Supervisor John Ferretti, center, presented a news conference with Town Clerk Kate Murray, left, and William Hawkins, the commissioner of parks and recreation.
July 9, 2026 —
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE
CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC
SEASONED LOANS STRUCTURED TRANSACTION TRUST, SERIES 2019-3, -againstSYED MOHAMMAD
ABBAS A/K/A SYED
MUHAMMAD ABBAS
A/K/A SYED ABBAS, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 27, 2026, wherein FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC
SEASONED LOANS STRUCTURED TRANSACTION TRUST, SERIES 2019-3 is the Plaintiff and SYED
MOHAMMAD ABBAS
A/K/A SYED
MUHAMMAD ABBAS
A/K/A SYED ABBAS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on July 28, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2396 3RD AVENUE, EAST MEADOWS, NY 11554; and the following tax map identification: 50-416-40. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 614933/2024. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN
ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 160863
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTEUM MORTGAGE ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION, ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4, Plaintiff, AGAINST JESUS A. AVELARLEMUS, et al. Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on December 2, 2025.
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 629 Oxford Street, Westbury, NY 11590.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Westbury, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0011, Block 00219-00 and Lot 00090-00094. Approximate amount of judgment
Public Notices Public
$630,018.13 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #607755/2023. Steven M. Feinberg, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 160857 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 07/22/2026 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.
379/26. - 380/26. NR WESTBURY - Rodrigue Lors, Variances, lot area occupied, rear yard, construct 2nd story addition, two (2) 2nd story bay windows & roof over existing deck all attached to dwelling; Variances, lot area occupied, rear yard, maintain deck extension attached to dwelling., S/s Sherman Ct., 260.19’ W/o Bernard Dr., a/k/a 699 Sherman Ct.
ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Westbury within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals
The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 161099
THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, -againstROBERT DYCKMAN, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on December 16, 2014, wherein FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION
(“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is the Plaintiff and ROBERT DYCKMAN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on August 11, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1939 LINCOLN AVENUE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554; and the following tax map identification: 50-536-20. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN EAST MEADOW, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 011136/2013. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 161109
elevate the Conversation
Naming rights
Iwas named for my great-grandmother Lena and was told she was a tough but beloved woman who played an active role in my dad’s and his three siblings’ lives. Using “L” as the basis, my mom’s admiration of Lauren Bacall’s name won the day so that my first name, Lauren, became official on my birth certificate.
I recently recounted this story when asked about it in an ice breaker – part of an intimate meeting of colleagues and staff at my university. Some participants related their name to their culture, one breathed a sigh of relief when he was named Brian, not Gus. And our leader said his name had something to do with babbling brooks which reflected well given his talkative nature.
What enamored me to this unique introduction was the connection and enviable stories that we all own, and share given the origin of our names.
name given by our stature and smile and given by our attire. We each have a name given by the hills and given by the walls…”
This passage goes on, defining our name with all our yearnings and our celebrations as well as our failings. And I like to think that no matter the name we are known by, it will be the way that we live that strengthens and defines that name forever.
“What is your name and what does it mean?”
I took this idea home with me and recently told it to two young women who gave me even more admiration for who we are, as a reflection of the names we go by.
One of the two women declared that the English articulation of her name was something she wanted to shed to reach back to the Hispanic pronunciation that felt closer to her heritage and pride.
The other young woman modified her Chinese name with an American translation that we could all say easily. But what moved me was her modest explanation of how her dad had given her a name that translated to “shine”, encouraging her inner self to bring light to all who behold her from birth.
We can grow into our names; we can spend a lifetime living up to them.
But rather than rely on the expected – that is, the quote from Shakespeare, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” there is another value of a good name, focused on a portion of liturgy found in a prayer.
“…Each person has a name. We each have a name given by God and given by our father and mother. We each have a
LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given, that the fiscal affairs of the Wantagh Fire District for the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending on December 31, 2025, have been examined by an independent public accountant, Craig, Fitzsimmons & Michaels, LLP, -
Smithtown, NY. A copy of their independent audit report and management letter has been filed with the New York Office of the State Comptroller and the report of the external audit by the independent public accountant has been filed in the office of the Wantagh Fire District
The icebreaker in the conference room had many participants drawing on their family roots and language to explain the nature of their names. Our leader said his name had something to do with babbling brooks which reflected well given his talkative nature. Another person admitted that he was almost called Gus but gratefully was named Brian. And my contribution was how I was named for a strong great-grandmother and my mom’s admiration of Lauren Bacall’s name.
What enamored me to this unique introduction was the connection and enviable stories that we all own, and share given the origin of our names.
I took this idea home with me and recently told it to two young women who gave me pause from their explanations.
One declared that the English pronunciation of her name was something she wanted to shed to reach back to the Hispanic articulation that felt closer to her heritage and pride.
The other young woman, like many of my students, modified her Chinese name with an American translation that we could all say easily. But what moved me was her modest explanation of how her dad had given her a name that translated to “shine,” encouraging her inner self to bring light to all who behold her from birth.
Being ourselves may have us living up to our names.
(My last name is “heart” in Hebrew).
Lauren Lev is a direct marketing/advertising executive.
Secretary where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons during normal business hours. Pursuant to Section 35 of the General Municipal Law and Section 181-b of the Town Law a written response and corrective action plan has been prepared by the Board
of Fire Commissioners of the Wantagh
as a public record for inspection by all interested persons. Brendan J. Narell Superintendent Wantagh Fire District
Dated: June 30, 2026 161094
L auren L ev
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour
Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
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Stunning new construction. Experience modern luxury in this beautifully designed 5-bedroom, 5 1/2
What to do about cracking concrete
Q. We have large cracks in our concrete driveway and garage floor, and want to make sure they are repaired correctly, since they appear to be recently done, possibly within a year before we purchased the house. In particular, there is a nearly round hole that turned to gravel, kind of, and we want to know why it happened and avoid having it happen again. What can you tell us?
A. Concrete reacts to extreme weather changes. That is a given to designers of concrete structures, even though most people think concrete is the “immovable object.”
Nature moves mountains, so your driveway was no challenge for the forces of nature.
Extreme cold causes concrete to contract, push in on itself, while the heat has the effect of stretching this fairly rigid material to its limits. In the heat of summer, as you may have heard, the beautifully engineered Autobahn in Germany just buckled in various places. I’ve seen cars going nearly 200 miles per hour on that roadway, but with a buckled road, sections were shut down.
The key to any material selection is understanding its reaction to two major factors in nature, namely, water and movement. Throw in other factors, like chemical reaction and deterioration rates, and you realize that concrete is vulnerable. You have to work with its basic properties to have it adapt and cooperate with your intended use.
All that being said, the hole is basically like a zit, a buildup of pressure in a weaker place across the surface. Concrete develops strength as a chemical reaction to the specific combination of materials it is made from. With too much water in the mix, it will be weaker, especially in a particular spot. If it has no way to expand over a large area, as a thin sheet, only 4 to 6 inches thick over 10 to 20 feet, its strength is reduced because of a strengthto-distance ratio. So, to relieve the intensity of the expansion or contraction, separations, or “joints,” are made so the slabs can spread the forces of shrinking or expanding, a little.
Concrete is known to be very strong in compression, meaning you can press it together, to an extreme, before it crushes. On the other hand, it has very little ability to resist being stretched or pulled apart. To counteract the problem, steel, which is very elastic (stretchable) is spaced within formed concrete to increase the resistance to cracking apart. The combination of steel, in the right ratio and strength, and expansion joints, to let the concrete separate without unsightly cracks, makes the concrete more stable. Even just a depressed joint, not through and through, helps, by basically letting the concrete crack in a controlled way, where the crack runs in a straight depression instead of looking like a big rip.
I recommend having a professional make the repairs, with caution. You want an experienced company that works from a calculated solution, not just a quick fix. More next week. Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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Our town is standing up for mothers, fathers and families
At a time when many Americans feel that common sense is increasingly under attack, the Town of Hempstead has taken a stand.
Last month the Town Board voted to approve my resolution to protect mothers and fathers, making our township the first municipality in New York state to formally preserve the terms “mother” and “father” throughout our municipal code, forms and official documents.
For many residents, this may seem like something that shouldn’t require government action. After all, mothers and fathers have been the foundation of families and communities since the beginning of our nation. Yet recent actions in Albany have made it clear that what once seemed self-evident can no longer be taken for granted.
Legislation recently passed by the State Legislature would replace longstanding family terminology in state law with terms such as “gestating parent” and “non-gestating parent.” Many
parents across Long Island see something much larger at stake than mere terminology. They see an effort to remove language that has reflected the reality of family life for generations.
The language we use shapes how we understand our institutions, our traditions and our values. When government begins replacing universally understood terms like “mother” and “father” with bureaucratic alternatives, it sends a message that these roles are somehow outdated or unworthy of recognition. I reject that notion, and so does the Town Board.
Wnot deserve to be erased.
The Town of Hempstead has always been a place where families come first. Our residents choose to live here because of our neighborhoods, schools, parks, houses of worship and sense of community. These are the institutions that make suburban life possible and help families thrive.
e don’t want any part of terms like ‘gestating’ and ‘non-gestating parent.’
This resolution is not about excluding anyone. It is not about judging how people choose to live their lives. Rather, it is about affirming a simple truth that mothers and fathers play unique and indispensable roles in raising children and building strong families.
As a husband and father, I know firsthand the importance of family. I know what it means to hear children call out for their mom or dad. I know the sacrifices parents make every day to provide for their families, teach their children values and prepare the next generation for success. Those roles deserve respect, recognition and preservation. They do
That’s why our local government has consistently focused on policies that improve quality of life. We have worked to keep taxes affordable, strengthen public safety, invest in parks and infrastructure, and deliver essential services efficiently. But protecting our community also means defending the values that unite us. When Albany extremists advance policies that touch on fundamental aspects of family and community life, local governments have a responsibility to speak up on behalf of the people they represent.
Hempstead is America’s largest township. With that distinction comes a responsibility to lead. We cannot simply sit on the sidelines and hope someone else will defend the principles that matter to our residents.
Our resolution sends a clear message that the mothers and fathers of Hemp-
stead will not be ignored. It tells families that their local government hears their concerns and shares their belief that traditional parental roles remain worthy of recognition. And it demonstrates that local communities still have a voice, even when they disagree with the direction coming from Albany.
As we continue to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, we should reflect on the values that have sustained this country through its greatest challenges. Family is one of those values. Strong families create strong neighborhoods. Strong neighborhoods create strong communities. And strong communities create a strong nation. This simple principle is as true today as it was generations ago.
The town’s resolution to protect mothers and fathers is about preserving that foundation for future generations. It is about ensuring that common-sense language remains part of our public institutions. And it is about standing up for the families who make our township such a special place to live.
I’m proud that Hempstead has led the way. My hope is that other communities across New York will join us in affirming the importance of mothers, fathers and the families they help build. These are values worth defending.
John Ferretti is supervisor of the Town of Hempstead.
Biofuels can help decarbonize L.I.’s school bus fleet
As the deadline for school districts to begin purchasing zero-emission school buses loomed, state lawmakers rightfully hit the brakes by delaying the mandate for five years.
The reasons are as clear as they are daunting: the electric grid isn’t ready, charging infrastructure remains scarce compared with ambitious state targets, and the upfront cost of a single electric bus can be triple that of a traditional one.
For Long Island school districts already grappling with a high tax burden and unique costof-living challenges, this represents yet another significant financial strain that would fall squarely on local taxpayers.
State leaders should be lauded for recognizing these realities. But as officials continue to debate these and other changes to the state’s climate law, we can’t fall into an either-or trap, just as we can’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good.
New York already has a solution that has been in use for decades, and is easily deployed: renewable liquid fuels.
Transitioning the existing school bus fleets to renewable diesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86 percent immediately. Unlike electric buses, which require specialized chargers and rely on our dangerously thin electric grid, renewable diesel works in the engines we already own. It requires no costly equipment overhauls, no new infrastructure, and performs reliably in cold New York winters.
Rfrom entering our air annually. Officials aim to complete the conversion of all city-owned vehicles this summer.
New York became the first state in the Northeast to offer the fuel to state agencies, authorities, schools, municipalities and nonprofits in 26 counties, including Nassau and Suffolk. Still, too few are availing themselves of this resource.
e newable diesel fuel works in the school bus engines we already own.
While the state waits years for the grid to catch up, municipal leaders are already proving that renewable liquid fuels — biodegradable fuel manufactured domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats and recycled restaurant grease — can deliver significantly carbon reduction today without breaking the bank.
New York City is leading the way, having transitioned its fleet of garbage trucks, emergency vehicles and other heavy-duty machines to renewable diesel in 2024, a move expected to prevent 162 million pounds of carbon dioxide
And while much of today’s conversation centers on delays in transportation electrification, concerns about the pace and practicality of electrification are also growing in the homes and buildings sectors, as well as budget-strapped public facilities — especially our schools.
Consider a high school in Brooklyn where administrators recently replaced traditional heating oil with the renewable fuel alternative, making it the first school in New York City to convert to a heating system running entirely on biofuels. This historic transition to cleaner renewable fuels proves that giving schools and other institutions the flexibility they need to adopt a range of clean-energy solutions — not just electrification — is how the
state can continue to make meaningful climate progress while keeping energy reliable and at a manageable price point.
This common-sense approach is what New Yorkers are demanding as they navigate a punishing economy. With affordability continuing to be top of mind and the state grid operator warning of a razor-thin reliability margin that leaves Long Island particularly vulnerable to blackouts, a pragmatic, costeffective approach to making environmental progress today is the smart approach for the region’s school districts and the taxpayers and families who support them.
The debate in Albany often presents a false choice between a costly mandate and a climate delay. But a true all-of-theabove approach to energy options being advanced by Gov. Kathy Hochul and some legislators can find an effective middle ground when the right tools are brought into the mix.
The grid will catch up eventually, but our environment and hardworking Long Islanders can’t afford to wait. It’s time to choose the solutions that work today.
Rocco J. Lacertosa is CEO of the Hauppauge-based New York State Energy Coalition.
Incorporating the Meadowbrook Times and East Meadow Beacon in 1992
BerMan
Joseph d’alessandro
roBert CuMMings
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2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
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HERALD
Investing in libraries pays dividends all year
Summer has a way of reminding us about the simple pleasures in life. For many, that means relaxing on the beach with a good book, spending time with family or finding fun ways to stay cool during the hottest days of the year.
But while a great novel may be the perfect beach companion, the local public library offers so much more than books. It is one of the smartest and most valuable investments any community can make.
Libraries have evolved far beyond quiet reading rooms lined with shelves full of books. They are vibrant community centers that welcome residents of every age and every background. They’re places where curiosity is encouraged, lifelong learning is celebrated and neighbors come together at author readings, musical performances and movie screenings.
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for libraries. Children who might otherwise lose valuable academic skills during the school break can take part in summer reading programs intended to keep their minds engaged while making learning fun.
Teens can explore new interests through workshops, volunteer opportunities and technology programs. Adults can attend lectures, careerdevelopment seminars, financial-literacy classes and cultural events. Seniors can take part in social gatherings, edu-
cational presentations and wellness activities that help combat isolation while strengthening community connections.
Libraries are free public spaces open to everyone. They provide safe, air-conditioned environments in which families can spend time together, students can study, remote workers can focus and anyone can simply enjoy a quiet place to read, learn or reflect.
These services don’t disappear when summer ends. Throughout the year, libraries host civic meetings, support groups, educational workshops, cultural performances, technology training, tax-preparation assistance, job search resources and countless other programs that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. They serve as gathering places where ideas are exchanged, friendships are formed and local organizations find a home.
Elected officials deserve recognition when they prioritize funding for public libraries. Public investments often bring to mind roads, bridges or major construction projects, and those investments certainly matter. But investments in libraries produce returns that cannot always be measured in dollars. Whether funding is for the renovation of a community room to expand programs and services or a much larger capital project that overhauls the entire building, libraries aim to improve educational outcomes, encour-
age civic engagement, reduce social isolation, create stronger, more connected communities, and make their facilities more welcoming, accessible and functional for everyone who walks through their doors.
These projects also reflect a broader truth: Investments in libraries are investments in people. Every renovated classroom, meeting space or children’s area creates opportunities for learning, connection and growth that extend well beyond the life of the construction project itself.
At a time when many people worry about loneliness, educational gaps and divisions in society, libraries quietly address each of those challenges every day. They remain one of the few places where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, income or background, and where the only requirement for entry is a willingness to learn.
As summer unfolds, residents should take full advantage of everything their local libraries have to offer. Borrow that next beach read. Sign a child up for a reading challenge. Attend a lecture, explore a new hobby, join a community group or simply spend an afternoon discovering something new.
Every library card opened, every book borrowed and every program attended is a reminder that one of the greatest investments we can make is in institutions that educate, inspire and bring us together.
Scott’s column should be required college reading
To the Editor:
Re Robert A. Scott’s column, “What it means to be a college graduate,” in the June 24-30 issue: At a time when some are questioning the value of a college education, Dr. Scott offers a thoughtful perspective on this important issue. Drawing on his own experiences at Bucknell University as well as research that demonstrates the many positive outcomes of college, he makes a strong case for post-secondary education. At its best, Scott notes, college can not only improve students’ writing and speaking skills and boost graduates’ earning power, but also foster personal growth and enhance one’s outlook on the world. “College is, or should be,” he writes, “as much about character development and active citizenship as it is about preparation for careers and advancement in commerce.”
The administration just won’t let up on deportation
There was an especially poignant happening on Long Island recently, amid the Trump administration’s campaign against immigrants, when honor student Sara Lopez Garcia returned — virtually — for graduation ceremonies at Suffolk County Community College and gave a video presentation.
A year earlier, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents had raided Garcia’s home in Mastic and arrested her.
As Bart Jones reported in Newsday, Garcia, who had a 3.9 GPA, “told the crowd … that while she joined in celebrating their new degrees, including hers, the day was bittersweet, as she was forced to watch from 2,500 miles away in South America.”
“This day brings really difficult memories for me,” Garcia, dressed in graduation regalia, said from Colombia. Of her arrest, she added, “It was one of the moments of my life when I felt fear. I was so scared, and everything was uncertain. I didn’t know what would happen to me, to my family, to my future.”
LeTTers
She was sent to an ICE detention facility in Louisiana. She had been brought to the United States by her mother, who was also arrested, and has no criminal record.
Jones wrote that SCCC English Professor Cynthia Eaton had nominated Garcia to speak at graduation because “she was a model of determination in the face of adversity.” Said Eaton: “She is a good thinker. She’s a good learner. She’s a good person … Everybody on our campus knew Sara’s smile. They all loved Sara. She was like a magnet … upbeat, positive.”
followed by laws enacted by New York state that prohibit “local governments, state and local police, and state and local corrections” from entering into “agreements with the federal government that allow for state and local enforcement personnel and facilities to be used for civil immigration enforcement purposes” — and that also ban “state, local and federal officers from wearing face covering while interacting with the public.”
A former Border Patrol chief talks of deporting over 100 million people.
Jim Morgo, ex-chief deputy Suffolk County executive, a former vice chair of the college’s board of trustees and a teacher, said that Garcia “is the perfect example of everything that’s wrong with mass deportation. There’s no distinguishing the honor students from the rapist.”
On Long Island, as is the case in the rest of the nation, there’s opposition to President Trump’s deportation program. For months there have been protests. The Town of East Hampton and, before that, East Hampton Village passed laws blocking their participation with ICE.
The town and village actions were
Scott’s column should be required reading for every new college student, especially those entering with the misguided notion that college is little more than a quick ticket to a job. While finding a career that’s a good fit should certainly be part of everyone’s college years, students should also use this time to learn about themselves, to engage ideas, to come to grips with life’s complexities, and to develop a deeper understanding of the world that’s waiting for them after graduation.
Colleges themselves would also do well to pay attention to Scott’s advice. Too many schools present themselves as career factories, highlighting their programs’ “real world” skill development while paying only minimal attention to the transformative experiences that a college education can (and should) provide. Graduating thoughtful, knowledgeable and insightful human beings — people capable of seeing life’s big picture and acting on behalf of the greater good — should be a primary goal of higher education.
Given the cost of college, as well as our collective anxiety about the future of America’s workforce, I can understand many students’ wish to choose a major that will help them make their way. But preparing for a career needn’t preclude being open to activities and experiences, both in and out of the classroom, that will invite students to stretch intellectually, socially and emotionally. There are indeed many valuable lessons to be learned here; students should not miss out on them.
FrAmework
But Tom Homan, the exdirector of ICE who was given the title of “border czar” by Trump, has vowed that if New York passed “this ridiculous legislation,” ICE would “flood the zone. You’re going to see more ICE agents than you ever seen before.”
And in a party-line vote in the U.S. Senate, Republicans passed $70 billion in new funding for ICE and the U.S. Border Patrol, in addition to $150 billion the agencies received last year.
Meanwhile, Greg Bovino, the former Border Patrol chief who was removed in January after Renee Good and Alex Pretti were killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, has announced that he is running for president, and said, “My one and only priority is deporting the 106 million illegal
by Tim Baker
immigrants who are here.”
The website Mediaite commented that this is one-third of the nation’s population, and “the true number of illegal immigrants peaked at 14 million in 2023, according to Pew [Research Center].”
Back to earth and Long Island, the Bridgehampton Museum recently held an exhibition titled, “What We Carry: Memory & Migration.” “Rooted in themes central to the East End and beyond, What We Carry underscores how migration stories are embedded in local history while resonating on a global scale,” the museum wrote, and was co-curated by Jeremy Dennis, a Shinnecock Native American; Mark Wilson, who has roots in Australia; and Darius Yektai, who has an Iranian and Greek background.
The exhibition was scheduled to be followed by presentations by East Hampton attorney Lenny Ackerman, the author of “Leibisch’s Journey,” a book about his father’s escape from the horrors of the Russian Revolution through Europe to the U.S., and Tara Rider, a Stony Brook University professor of history, to speak about her book “Journey of Hope: The Irish in New York.”
Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
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