Rockville Centre Herald 04-25-2024

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VOL. 35 NO. 18

Island’s cheesiest compete

Girl Scouts learn finance

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APRIL 25 - MAy 1, 2024

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Congressman secures funds for RVCPD our region.”

D’Esposito, a former New York City police detective and U. S .

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A n t h o n y former Hempstead town counD’Esposito recently secured cilman, secured the funding for $5.4 million in federal funding the Rockville Centre Police for Long Island community Department’s new equipment projects — including $241,000 through the House appropriations committee in for the Village of March.

Rockville Centre Rockville Centre Police Department Police Commissionearmarked to purer Randy Dodd said chase six new that thanks to the license plate readvital funding proers that will assist vided by the conin criminal investigressman, the gations and securdepartment will be ing arrests. able to add addi“I am proud to tional license plate have successfully readers on Merrick secured this criti- RANDy DODD Road to assist with c a l f u n d i n g f o r Police commissioner continued efforts to impor tant infra- Rockville Centre combat crime and structure projects preserve the qualithat will benefit Fourth District neighbors in ty of life for residents.

“The funding will be used to significant ways,” D’Esposito said in a release. “Enhancing purchase six license plate readcommunity resiliency against ers that will be strategically flooding and providing first positioned and provide realresponders with the resources time license plate recognition, they need to safeguard the pub- aiding our police department lic are palpable ways the feder- in swift response to criminal al government can work with activities and vehicle identifilocal partners to make life bet- cation for investigative means.”

License plate readers are ter for Long Islanders, and I am glad to have been able to facili- high-tech devices utilized by tate this infusion of funds into Continued on page 18

By DANIEL OFFNER

doffner@liherald.com

Daniel Offner/Herald

Chris troiano, far left, bassist ian Kang, gabriela espinal-Santiago and Melanie Valls, of Lots o’ Stuff, and Robert Forman preparing for the fifth annual unity through diversity event at Molloy university’s Madison theatre.

Molloy celebrates inclusivity in the arts with Unity concert

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Artists of all abilities and backgrounds will take center stage on Friday at Molloy University’s Madison Theatre for the fifth annual Unity Through Diversity event, an evening dedicated to celebrating inclusivity and creativity in the arts.

Created by Diana Abourafeh, a music therapist with the university’s Rebecca Center for Music Therapy, the event is an exhilarating showcase of talent from the neurodivergent community.

“We always look forward to this event,” Abourafeh said, adding that this year also marks more than 20 years of service to the community by the Rebecca Center. “The

event continues to grow and be a platform for the neurodivergent community, as we feature neurodivergent-run businesses and vendors, artists, performers and hosts.”

Jeannine Perrin, administrative assistant for the center, offered a glimpse behind the scenes during last week’s dress rehearsals at some of the heartwarming performances being presented at this year’s concert.

“You just have to experience it for yourself,” Perrin said. “It’s good for your heart.”

What makes the event such a thrill for participants and audience members alike, she said, is how it gives neurodivergent artists a platfor m to express themselves through music, dance, poetry, self-advocacy, Continued on page 8

T

he funding will be used to purchase six license plate readers.

Curran celebrates young leaders from RVC

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Courtesy Assemblyman Brian Curran

Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murray, left, joins Assemblyman Brian Curran, right, in honoring South Side High School young leaders Ella Burbige and Noah Feigenbaum for their contributions to the community. run nonprofit organization, following an incident in December 2022, when her friend, PJ Kellachan, suddenly collapsed during basketball practice. Thankfully, he was resuscitated by Chaminade High School’s coaching staff using CPR and an automated external defibrillator.

Through her efforts with the Heart and Sole Foundation, Brubige has promoted heart health by raising money for the purchase of life-saving AED devices.

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Her organization also hosts free EKG screening events to provide student-athletes the opportunity to detect any abnormalities. These screenings have helped save young lives and emphasize the importance of knowing the risks of sudden cardiac arrest.

Noah Feigenbaum, a senior at South Side High School, is vice president of the senior class, president of the Mock Trial team, vice president of the National

Honor Society, and a varsity baseball player.

Outside of school, Feigenbaum has fostered a deep connection to Sunrise Day Camp, a free summer camp for pediatric oncology patients and their siblings. He has volunteered as a camp counselor for the last three years and participates in fundraising and yearround camp activities. One he is particularly proud of is “Smile 4 Sunrise” which he founded to help generate donations for the camp.

Feigenbaum used the high school woodshop to create and design over 100 wooden signs with the word “smile.”

The signs were hand-painted by campers, counselors and Wood Design students. The project would help generate more than $,1000 in profit for Sunrise.

This past summer, he also interned at the public benefit company Vesta, a group which utilizes the natural processes of Coastal Carbon Capture to accelerate the removal of carbon dioxide while simultaneously strengthening our coastlines. His project was one of six with the South Side research program entered into the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest science and math competition.

Driven by his keen interest in mathematics and science, and his love and concern for the planet, Noah plans to study engineering in college this fall.

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Assemblyman Brian Curran recently recognized a group of 19 young leaders in the district who made a positive difference in their communities — including Ella Burbige and Noah Feigenbaum of Rockville Centre.

“Young people are powerful. All throughout history, youth movements have had a tremendous impact on the way society thinks, acts and runs,” Curran said in a statement. “I want to encourage young people to be bold. Change the world. Don’t be afraid to be a part of something bigger. Young people are a powerful group, and with great power comes great responsibility. Use your powers to make our small planet a better place.”

Ella Burbige, a junior at South Side High School, is a role model for others, who exemplifies what it means to be a leader through her involvement with the schools and community. She is secretary of student government, a member of the National Honor Society and co-founder of the Public Health Club. Burbige is also the 11th grade president of the South Side DECA club, and a scholar-athlete with the South Side High School girls’ varsity basketball team.

She said she was inspired to create the Heart and Sole Foundation, a student-

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April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Mac and Cheese Festival comes to RVC

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Hundreds of hungry Long Islanders gathered at the Tap Room in Rockville Centre on Saturday to take part in the cheesiest competition in New York.

The second annual New York Mac and Cheese Festival featured more than eight local restaurants and eating establishments going head-to-head in a battle for the best cheese dish.

Matt Kourie of the New York Best Wings Festival said that the inspiration came to him during one of their annual chicken wing competitions.

“I was like, man, you know, we’re dipping our wings in cheese,” Kourie said.

“Everybody loves cheese. We got to do a cheese festival. So it just seemed like the thing to do and here we are at another great event with great people.”

The 44-year-old Oceanside native hosted the first-ever New York Mac and Cheese Festival last year at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh. He said his decision to switch the venue to Rockville Centre this year was a no brainer.

“In 2014, we did our very first wing festival,” he said. “Literally our whole legacy started here.”

Before becoming the Tap Room in 2021, the North Village Avenue mainstay was known as Cannon’s Blackthorn when the venue hosted the wing festival in 2014.

As fate would have it, Kourie would be back in RVC ten years later hosting the second annual New York Mac and Cheese Festival.

Hannah Mizrahi, the festival’s outreach coordinator, said that because of the impact that the pandemic had on the restaurant and hospitality industry, the company has been working to support local establishments across Long Island.

“We wanted to invigorate business on Long Island,” Mizrahi said, “especially here in Rockville Centre.”

During the competition, as hungry guests enjoyed sampling some of the tastiest, gooiest macaroni and cheese dishes around, three Long Island food influencers chose the top three picks for “Best Mac and Cheese of the Year.”

“It has to be creamy, but not too creamy,” said Bella Litrenta, a Long Island food influencer and one of the Mac and Cheese Festival judges. “And I don’t like bread crumbs on top.”

Will of Long Island Foodtastic said what he looks for is the texture. “It can’t be too mushy,” he said.

Smokin’ Stevie Ray’s BBQ won first prize for their smoked brisket macaroni and cheese dish. Created by brothers Steve and Dan, Stevie Ray’s is a food truck operation serving up traditional pit smoked barbecue across Long Island.

Second prize went to the Tap Room and third prize went to Bluebird Kitchen in Bellemore.

Attendees also got the chance to participate in the judging as well, bestowing the People’s Choice Award to Smokin’ Stevie Ray’s BBQ. The winner of the best quest went to Moe’s Southwest Grill in Oceanside and the winner

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Tim Baker/Herald photos

Nicole Cassidy and Samantha Wicks of Merrick enjoy sharing a bite.

Gina Braun with Tap Room in Rockville Centre serves up a piping hot sample of mac and cheese.

Olivier Francois of Fire and Smoke BBQ serves up a dish of mac and cheese to Shanta Best of the Bronx.

Lexi Martone of Blackthorn plates her dish with perfection. of the best cheese dish went to Tepache Taste of Mexico in Valley Stream.

Kourie said that his next event, The New York Best Wings Festival, will take place on May 19 in Patchogue. For more information visit NYBestWingsFestival.com.

Steven Jones of Smokin’ Stevie Ray’s BBQ serves up some of their prizewinning brisket mac and cheese.

Matt Kourie, founder and host of the annual New York Mac and Cheese Festival, serves as MC for the afternoon.

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Residents of Strathmore Lane, Brower Avenue and Raymond Street reported on April 17 that someone stole the catalytic converter from their vehicles.

A DPW employee reported on April 15 spotting graffiti in the new bathroom at the Recreation Center soccer field.

CriminaL misChief A motorist reported on April 12 a male and female kicked and struck her vehicle causing damage to her passenger side mirror.

A DPW employee reported on April 15 that three light poles were damaged and knocked over at Tighe Field.

A resident of Buckminster Road reported on April 19 someone threw a rock through the front window of her home causing it to break.

trespass A resident of Fonda Road reported on April 13 his vehicle was entered by an unknown male, who fled in a black BMW eastbound on Fonda Road.

Leaving the sCene of an aCCident A pedestrian was struck by a grey four door Honda Civic on April 13, which was driven by a female who fled the scene without filing a report. The pedestrian was transported to Mount Sinai South Nassau for treatment.

A motorist reported on April 15 her vehicle was struck by another vehicle which fled the scene while traveling northbound on Peninsula Boulevard.

A NICE Bus employee reported on April 15 his bus was struck by an unknown white vehicle, which reversed and fled the scene.

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outside JurisdiCtion An employee of Senior Care reported on April 15 that her ambulance was hit on the passenger side door with an object causing damage while getting on the entrance ramp of the Southern State Parkway.

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arrest Hinmer Carranza-Moreno, 30, of Beach 22nd Street in Far Rockaway, Queens, was arrested on April 11. He was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other vehicle and traffic law offenses following an investigation on Sunrise Highway.

Marquis Whitmore, 38, of Duryea Place in Lynbrook was arrested on April 11. He was charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle following a police investigation.

Steve Figueroa, 35, of Linden Street in Massapequa Park was arrested on April 12. He was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated and other vehicle and traffic law offense after an investigation on DeMott Avenue.

unusuaL inCident A resident of Lenox Road reported on April 12, someone fraudulently used her personal information to open a small business loan in her name without her permission.

A resident of Greystone Road reported on April 16, she was the victim of a bank wire transfer scam.

A resident of Maple Avenue reported on April 16, a home depot credit card account was opened using his personal information.

A resident of Park Avenue reported on April 17, someone altered and cashed checks from her bank account.

A resident of Marlborough Court reported on April 17, someone altered and cashed check from his bank account.

A resident of Hendrickson Avenue reported on April 20, a Discover home loan was opened up using her personal information.

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

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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/rockvillecentre ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 205 E-mail: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: circ@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Rockville Centre Herald USPS 74660, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Rockville Centre Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Subscription rates: $60 for 1 year. Annual Subscription Rates, $9.75 per quarter auto-pay or $50 one-time payment within Nassau County or $60 outside of Nassau County.

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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

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South Side (10-1) maintains focus

By GARRETT D. URIBE sports@liherald.com

CHARLOTTE RATHJEN South Side Junior Lacrosse AN ALL-AMERICAN HONORABLE MENTION in 2023 and team MVP after scoring 44 goals and assisting on 16 others, Rathjen reached a milestone earlier this month in the Cyclones’ 14-11 victory at North Shore. She had six goals and one assist in the April 11 win, including the 100th point of her career. She has 26 goals thus far this spring to rank among the leaders in Nassau County and is a University of North Carolina commit.

GAMES TO WATCH Thursday, April 25 Softball: Freeport at Elmont ....................................10 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Baldwin at Freeport ........................10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Kennedy at Baldwin ........................10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Calhoun at Lynbrook .......................10 a.m.

Softball: Uniondale at Hewlett ................................10 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Kennedy .................11 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Carey at Mepham ............................. 1 p.m.

Baseball: West Hemp at East Rockaway ..............4:30 p.m.

Baseball: Oyster Bay at V.S. North ............................. 5 p.m.

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

Boys Lacrosse: Plainview at V.S. District .................... 5 p.m.

Friday, April 26 Softball: V.S. South at Hewlett .................................10 a.m.

Softball: Clarke at Wantagh .....................................10 a.m.

Softball: East Meadow at Mepham .........................10 a.m.

Softball: Oceanside at Syosset ...............................10 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Clarke at Carey................................10 a.m.

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

Saturday, April 27 Girls Lacrosse: Calhoun at South Side ..................... 9 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Hewlett at North Shore ..............12:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Seaford at Massapequa ................... 1 p.m.

Nominate a ‘Spotlight Athlete’ High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season.

Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

When a team finds itself dominating a new conference called the Power League – a group of nine boys’ lacrosse powerhouses separated out and pitted against each other so as to increase the parity in Nassau – swagger is to be expected, while complacency could be a pitfall.

South Side, Nassau Power League’s leader at 8-1 (10-1 overall), seems to have sidestepped either of these consequences, dismantling top foes and settling decadesold scores in matter-of-fact fashion – a steamroller on cruise control, its drivers focused solely on the road. And with less and less need to check the rearview.

“Our goals are still in front of us; we have to stay hungry,” said South Side coach Steve DiPietro, whose players also have said they are wary of overconfidence.

“This team believes it can go far, but we have to take care of business.”

Aside from a single quarter of play – the fourth period at Wantagh which saw the Cyclones blanked while allowing four goals, leading to the team’s lone setback, 15-11, on April 10 – there’s been little sign of South Side taking its foot off the gas.

Paced by attackman Michael Aiello’s team-leading 44 points – ranked fourth in Power League – on 26 goals and 18 assists, and midfielder Owen West’s 25 goals and eight assists, South Side’s offense ranks first in the league scoring 12.81 goals per game.

With his third hat trick in as many games, sole non-senior starter Cullen Lynch, a junior, reached 20 tallies during South Side’s 13-4 victory over Carey on Monday, tying fellow midfielder Cole DiPietro (18 goals, 12 assists) for third on the team with 30 points.

“One of our focuses has been to have a lot of offensive balance,” DiPietro said.

“Also, our veteran leadership has been tremendous. It’s really helped us from the start, especially through the early part of the schedule.”

After downing Power League rival Cold Spring Harbor to end March, snapping a winless streak against the reigning repeat state Class D champion dating to 2007,

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Twenty-five goal scorer Owen West, left, is part of a prolific Cyclones’ offense that leads Nassau’s top conference at 12.8 goals per game.

South Side opened April with a 7-4 league win against defending state two-time Class B champion Garden City, quenching a drought that had lasted since 2006. Yet another streak was ended April 19, as South Side sent nonleague foe Somers to its first defeat after the Tuskers of Lincolndale had opened 8-0.

A longstanding run that hasn’t seen an end is that of elite seasons turned in by Michael Melkonian – an Honorable Mention All-American last year. The South Side midfielder’s 164 faceoff wins rank second in Nassau, while his 107 ground balls rank fourth.

Behind stout work from defenseman Patrick Mullin and Chris Diez, South Side goalkeeper Michael Muscarella has quieted doubters. The first-year starter had 13 saves in the Cyclones’ 7-4 win at Garden City, the 17-year-drought-ending victory April 4 that DiPietro said was his team’s most impressive. “[Garden City is] such a historic program,” DiPietro said. “Our goalie outplayed theirs. That win gave our kids a belief we’re capable of doing something special.”

Added DiPietro: “We’re know we’re not finished, though. There’s still work to do.”

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April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Raise on horizon for pre-K special ed. providers A sector of special education services for young children has been severely underfunded for 25 years, according to some lawmakers — but that could soon change.

Nassau County officials propose giving those early childhood intervention service providers a raise, potentially elevating compensation from $40 per halfhour to $50.

The increase will affect providers who officer critical preschool services — like speech, occupational and physical therapy — to children between 3 and 5 with special needs as they get ready for kindergarten.

“We have many people who require services here,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said of contractual preschool special education services. “It provides preschool services to children throughout Nassau County.”

Joined at a recent news conference with Republican county leaders like Michael Giangregorio, Samantha Goetz and Mazi Pilip, as well as dozens of educators and parents of children with special needs, Blakeman described the county’s compensation for such providers as “below the average.”

Giangregorio brought this issue to light, the county executive said. He’s long been an advocate for children and adults with special needs, and says the county has had a hard time retaining therapists because compensation simply was not competitive to what was being offered in surrounding regions.

“We checked with our budget office and we made a determination that we could increase” the compensation, Blakeman said.

Giangregorio, who’s district represents parts of

Jordan Vallone/Herald

Nassau County intends to raise compensation for special educational preschool service providers — the first of its kind in 25 years. Legislator Michael Giangregorio, a longtime advocate for the autism community, leads the effort.

Merrick, Bellmore, Wantagh and Seaford, said he was honored to stand with Blakeman for this “monumental decision that reflects our unwavering commitment to early childhood education.” Especially as a father of someone with autism.

“My son is now 23, so the last time he received (preK special education) services was quite a while ago, and there has not been a raise since he’s been in the

system,” Giangregorio said. “Back then, it was difficult to find providers. These people that come into your homes, or that work in agencies — they’re really doing God’s work. They’re helping to improve the lives of these individuals.”

The earlier a child receives services, Giangregorio said, the better the outcome.

“My child will be an adult longer than he’s a child,” the county legislator said. “The costs are always more when you’re an adult. For far too long, the wages of these early intervention educators and therapists have not reflected the true value of their work.”

Dr. Irina Gelman, the county’s health commissioner, explained her office has to go before the county’s health board to propose the raise.

“We are very grateful for this opportunity to bring this forward in front of our board,” she said. “We’re very hopeful they will adopt this new rate, which will be instrumental in providing services to our children, our families, and adequately reimburse our providers.

These are rates for preschool related services that have not been raised since 1999 — so it’s long overdue.”

But Democrats in the county legislature say the need for raises has not been a secret. Siela Bynoe, for instance, says she has advocated for preschool special education funding for nearly a decade — especially so in the last few months.

“While I am glad that the county executive has heeded the advocacy of practitioners and the Democratic minority by taking this first step, much more must still be done to repair the damage caused by three decades of stagnation,” she said. “Moving forward, the county must raise awareness about the availability of these resources, and remain vigilant so that we can never again find ourselves paying the lowest rates in New York for these critical services.”

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jvallone@liherald.com

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

By JORDAN VALLONE

7

Event celebrates inclusivity and creativity Continued from page 1

storytelling and visual artistry.

“It gives them an opportunity that the rest of the world doesn’t yet,” Perrin said.

Mike Kelliher, another music therapist at the center, has taken part in the Unity Through Diversity event since it began in 2017.

“We started picking stuff out in January,” Kelliher said, reflecting on the months of preparation that went into this year’s concert.

Kelliher, who has spent the past decade helping neurodivergent people harness the power of music to express themselves, emphasized the joy of performing alongside them. “Being up there and rocking with them,” he said, is what he enjoys most about the event.

To kick off the evening, an artists’ reception and exhibition at Molloy’s Public Square will showcase submissions from organizations including the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, the Nicholas Center, the Backyard Players and Friends, and Lots O’ Stuff, as well as the Rebecca Center community.

After the reception, attendees will be treated to a live musical performance in the Madison Theatre. The concert will open with a performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Sir Duke,” featuring Molloy President Jim Lentini and its vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, Donald “DJ” Mitchell Jr., along with participants from the MOST program, the Rebecca Center and Bach to Rock.

Christopher Troiano will perform the Beatles’ “Come Together.” Music has been a constant outlet for Troiano who has been coming to the Rebecca Center since he was 5. Although he has severe autism and is mostly non-verbal, he was referred to the center after his former music teacher noticed that he had absolute pitch.

Daniel Offner/Herald

following the performance, all of the clubs and organizations that had a hand in this year’s production gather on stage for a final curtain call.

Eliza Stoehrer, a Molloy senior and an intern at the Rebecca Center, will accompany Troiano and others on guitar. Stoehrer said that what she appreciates most about the Unity Through Diversity concert is collaborating with a diverse group of people that she wouldn’t typically have the chance to work with.

“It all comes out in the music and the art,” she said.

Stoehrer said she is particularly excited about performing “Sir Duke,” a song she learned five years ago and which continues to be dear to her heart. Joining her on stage will be Kelliher on piano, Charles Powell on drums and Ian Kang on bass guitar.

The Rebecca Center, on Molloy’s main campus in Rockville Centre, serves as a clinic that uses interac-

tive music therapy to facilitate communication and social interaction for those with developmental challenges. The center operates as a nonprofit, providing clinical services, training, education and research opportunities to people of all ages.

All proceeds from the Unity Through Diversity event will support the Rebecca Center Client Scholarship Fund, which ensures access to music therapy services for those in need. To learn more about the scholarship fund and the programs offered at the center, visit TheRebeccaCenter.org. Tickets for Unity Through Diversity are still available for $25 at the box office.

For more information, go to MadisonTheatreNY.org or call (516)-323-4444.

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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

Sponsorships & Journal Ads Still Available for May 13th Outing

Support Better Health Care on the South Shore Be a Part of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Day of Golf Monday May 13, 2024

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Birdie Sponsors • Christine & Larry Ferazani • Flagstar Bank, N.A. • L.E.B. Electric Ltd. • NGL Group, LLC • Park Strategies, LLC • Sloane & Walsh • The Central Orthopedics Group, LLP Par Sponsors • Elayne & Jeffrey Frisch • Parking Systems Premier Sponsors • a4media • Aaronson Rappaport Feinstein & Deutsch, LLP • Caduceus • Celebrity Moving • Champion Cutting Tools • Cibellis Contracting, Inc. • Clyde Construction Engineering, Inc. • E.W. Howell • Harris Beach PLLC • Nancy Koopersmith • Lizardos Engineering Associates PC • Mount Sinai South Nassau Medical Staff • NSPC Brain & Spine Surgery • Wendy Ponte

• Richmond County Ambulance • ROCA Management • Ellen & George Schieren • SDM Metro • TD Bank • Tom Von Essen • Western Specialty Contractors Honors Sponsors • Aetna • AKF Group • Anron Air Systems, Inc. • Axis Construction • Diane & Dave Bonagura • Bert Brodsky • Consigli Construction Co. Inc. • Guardian Bus Co. • HiLume Corp.

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Three Courses: The Seawane Club, The Rockaway Hunting Club, and The Rockville Links Club To buy tickets online or to donate, visit southnassaulifesaver.org or call 516 377-5360.

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April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Girl Scouts learn finance at Reality Fair Molloy University plays host to GSNC’s interactive financial literacy event

By ABIGAIL GRIECO Herald Intern

The Girl Scouts of Nassau County really do mean business. To help empower young scouts, the organization hosted a Reality Fair at Molloy University in Rockville Centre on April 13, focused on financial literacy.

The Reality Fair, hosted by the Girl Leadership Committee, was designed to empower Girl Scouts to take control of their financial futures and make informed decisions, preparing them for success as they grow into adulthood.

It was an interactive event that provided participating Girl Scouts the opportunity to learn practical financial management skills and how to apply them to real-world scenarios in a realistic simulation.

Through a variety of engaging activities the girls learned about the five essential principles of financial literacy — earning, saving/investing, protecting, spending, and borrowing — as well as budgeting, bank account management, obtaining loans, and managing debt.

More than 20 different Girl Scouts from Nassau County actively participated in financial simulations and decision-making exercises, experiencing what it is like to open a bank account, making decisions about how to spend their money wisely, obtaining a loan, and the importance of effectively managing debt.

One of the key benefits of the Reality Fair, was how it empowered girls to be proactive about their financial wellbeing. By gaining practical experience and knowledge in the financial field, the Girl Scouts came out of the fair feeling more confident about making financial decisions in the future.

Only 17 states in the country require financial education to graduate high school, as of March 2023. The majority of these only have access to it as an elective course.

In the other 33 states, which do not require a personal finance course, only one in ten high school students will take a finance course before graduating.

In New York, specifically, 44.8 percent of students have access to one semester of financial courses as an elective, while 49.4 percent of students have access to financial literacy embedded in other courses for less than one semester.

Due to the lack of financial education required by the state, the Girl Scouts of Nassau County took the initiative to promote these practical skills among young girls by providing them with the necessary tools to navigate their own finances. The Reality Fair not only equipped participants with essential life skills but also instilled a sense of empowerment and self-reliance as participants begin to navigate the complexities of the adult world.

Financial literacy is a crucial aspect of personal development, and the Girl

Photos courtesy Girl Scouts of Nassau County

Girl Scouts across Nassau County actively participated in series of activities focused around financial literacy.

Cadettes from Troop 2168 participate in the Reality Fair at Molloy University in Rockville Centre.

Girl Scouts learn about practical financial management skills and how to apply them to real-world scenarios with representatives of The Ressa Group.

Scouts of Nassau County are committed to providing girls with the tools and resources that are needed for success.

The Reality Fair represented a valuable opportunity for Girl Scouts to learn, grow, and become more confident in their abilities to manage their finances responsibly.

Rande Bynum, chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County, participates in the Reality Fair.

Girl Scouts across Nassau County actively participated in series of activities focused around financial literacy.

Budget includes $90M local media tax credit

Courtesy Empire State Local News Coalition

Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages joins lawmakers and supporters like Assemblyman David Weprin, at left, and state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, at right, last month to call on her colleagues to support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act. A version of this measure was included in the final state budget approved this past weekend by Gov. Kathy Hochul and lawmakers. tainability Act catapulted into a top legislative priority this session following the early-2024 founding of the Empire State Local News Coalition and the coalition’s mobilization of support from hundreds of New York hometown papers, as well as a broad range of stakeholders from around the country, including the Rebuild Local News Coalition, Microsoft, and El Diario. Organized labor including NYS AFL-CIO, CWA District 1, and national and local news guilds also played a criti-

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Gov. Kathy Hochul and the state legislature unveiled the final state budget over the weekend, which included a payroll tax credit for local news outlets, modeled on the Local Journalism Sustainability Act. With the passage of this bill, New York is now the first state in the nation to incentivize hiring and retaining local journalists.

What’s being described as a game-changer for the local news industry comes just months after the launch of the Empire State Local News Coalition, an unprecedented, grassroots campaign powered by more than 200 community newspapers across the state.

“I’m elated that our first-in-the-nation Local Journalism Sustainability Act is passing in the state budget,” said state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal — the senate bill sponsor — in a release. “A thriving local news industry is vital to the health of our democracy, and it’s our responsibility to help ensure New Yorkers have access to independent and community-focused journalism. Our efforts will help ensure that our democracy will not die in darkness.”

The program — $30 million per year for three years — allows each eligible newspaper and broadcast business to receive a 50 percent refundable tax credit against the first $50,000 of an employee’s salary, up to a total of $300,000 per business.

The budget will allocate the first $4 million to incentivize print and broadcast businesses to hire new journalists. The remaining $26 million will be split evenly between businesses with fewer than 100 employees and those with more than 100 employees, ensuring that hyperlocal, independent news organizations have a fair shot at access to these funds.

After stalling for years, the Local Journalism Sus-

cal role in mobilizing support for this historic bill.

“The Empire State Local News Coalition is thrilled by the state budget’s inclusion of a payroll tax credit for local news outlets modeled on the Local Journalism Sustainability Act,” said Zachary Richner — founder of the Empire State Local News Coalition, and a director at Richner Communications, the parent organization of Herald Community Newspapers.

“New York is now the first state in the nation to incentivize hiring and retaining local journalists — a critical investment given that hundreds of New York’s newspapers have closed since 2004, leaving too many New York communities without access to vital local information.

“The objectivity of this credit shows that there is a fair way for public policy to support local news without jeopardizing journalistic integrity. This program is a model for other states across the U.S. to follow as communities across the country raise their voices to save local news.”

Richner said he was “incredibly proud” of the 200 newspapers that built an unprecedented grassroots movement in support of saving New York’s local news industry in a few short months. He also extended gratitude to Hoylman-Sigal, “whose tireless advocacy for this tax credit was instrumental in moving it through the legislative process.”

Since launching in February, the coalition has quickly mobilized stakeholders across the state to rally behind the bill.

New York’s leadership on this issue could change the course of local journalism in the United States, organizers say. The budget’s inclusion of this tax credit comes at a watershed moment for the journalism industry: New York state has experienced hundreds of newspaper closures in the past few decades.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

STAFF REPORT

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CorNeriNg the market

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Learning proper baseball skills, early on

ow entering its fourth summer, Beach Baseball Camp has already been named one of the top sports camps by the Long Island Choice Awards. During the first two weeks in July, young sports enthusiasts are taught the correct skills and fundamentals of baseball. This ensures that safe and proper habits are formed early on, and will last a lifetime.

Campers can attend for one week or two. Groups are small and ageappropriate — grades 3 to 5, and grades 6 to 8. Boys play baseball, and for girls, softball is available.

Camp days, which run from 9am to 2 p m , s t a r t w i t h w a r m i n g u p, stretching and throwing. Skill drills are rotated — hitting, pitching, running, throwing, fielding, catching — along with instructional games, scrimmages and competitions.

Guest speakers are brought in to

address the importance of the positive mental approach to baseball.

The goal is to share the love of baseball and to have fun. Campers bring their own equipment.

Lunch takes place in an air-conditioned building.

Founder of Beach Baseball Camp is Eric Krywe, a teacher at Long Beach High School for over two decades. He played college baseball, and has coached at middle and high school levels. His erry wife, Vanessa, runs the administration aspect of the camp, making this is a family business. Their two sons, ages 11 and 12, share their passion for baseball and are active in the Little League. All coaches and instructors are highly experienced,

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have specialties, and are collegiate level or pro athletes.

Hitting Coach, Blake Malizia, was honored “Coach of the Year” in 2022. Infield Coach, Steve Scafa, played in in the D1 College World Series with St. John’s University, and was drafted by the NY Yankees as a second baseman. Hudson Georges, Running Instructor, ran college track and coached in High School for 23 years. Catching Coach, Justin iener Rodriquez, played college baseball, his team re a ch i n g Re g i o n a l Championship. Pitching Coaches, Christopher Bory and Andrew Lavelle, both played college baseball and more. Shannon Horgan, Running Instructor, played soccer on

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the U-19 Women’s US National Team, and the U-30 World Cup Qualifying Championship team. The camp’s Athletic Trainer, Davis Tobia, has worked in physical therapy, and as a trainer for the Jr. NBA basketball tournament and Empire State games.

Days at Beach Baseball Camp, which is situated at the Long Beach High School baseball facility, take place in all weather. Should it rain, they play inside. Campers are required to bring both cleats and sneakers. Their website —BeachBaseballCamp.com — features complete staff profiles, videos, registration forms, prices and even Early Bird discounts.

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STEPPING OUT

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Courtesy Roberto Ricci

Enrico Fagone, the Long Island Concert Orchestra’s music director and conductor, was nominated for a 2023 Grammy award. He’s been defined by the classical music press as one of today’s most promising conductors at the international level.

Courtesy Long Island Concert Orchestra

Pianist Alessandro Mazzamuto is among the special guest performers who share the stage with the Long Island Concert Orchestra.

CONNECTION THROUGH

Experience the magic of Chris Ruggiero’s new show,’Teenage Dreams and Magic Moments,’ when the dynamic vocalist visits the Landmark stage. Ruggiero is an old soul. Still in his 20s, the music that speaks to him is the music of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, His approach to performing is more in line with that of a bygone era, bringing to the stage the panache of Frank Sinatra or Paul Anka, coupled with the energy of Jackie Wilson.

Ruggiero first came to national attention when he performed in concert on a PBS coast-to-coast special, and was featured on ‘Good Morning America.’ Since then, he has traveled the country, delivering his unique brand of vintage rock ‘n’ roll, and sharing his passion for the classics. Ruggiero tells his story by breathing new life into the timeless music of the eras he loves, with a six-piece band and live brass.

Friday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. $59, $49, $39. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 7676444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

Symphony of Hope Benefit Concert inspires unity across the world

By Danielle Schwab

Art connects us beyond divides.

That’s how Bernie Furshpan, marketing director and board member of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, puts it when discussing the Long Island Concert Orchestra’s upcoming Symphony of Hope Concert at Tilles Center.

While the music is, of course, at the heart of this benefit performance, the evening is so much more than a concert. The aim is to support two vital organizations: Long Island’s Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, and the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance.

“When it comes to art, I think people in general agree that it’s something very healing and it brings people together,” Furshpan says.

“It’s a wonderful connector for people.”

Proceeds from the May 2 event benefit both organizations.

The concert includes special guests from the Israeli arts school, which is currently facing a funding crisis due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Two students — one Israeli and one Palestinian — take part, sending a powerful message of unity through music. Michael Klinghoffer — Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance’s president — also participates, further emphasizing the importance of this benefit concert.

“This spectacular event is a golden opportunity for community members to support these organizations,” says David Winkler, the orchestra’s executive director and composer-in-residence. “By attending the concert, our community will not just enjoy an evening of incredible music, but will be helping JAMD and HMTC continue their essential work.”

With some 1,600 students, the Jerusalem Academy nurtures the next generation of musicians and dancers, Furshpan says. The school’s diverse student demographic — ranging from 4 years old to young adulthood — studies a cultural mixture of Middle Eastern music, European classics, baroque and jazz.

“Right now, everybody’s hurting,” Furshpan says. “So, we’re doing this as more than just beautiful music. It’s also something that’s special and philanthropic.”

During the first selection of the evening, the two participating students will perform together, accompanied by a recording of the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance Orchestra.

“We have a hybrid experience,” Furshpan says. “On the big screen,

you’re going to see the Israeli orchestra, and the students are going to be sitting alongside that screen and playing together with them.”

Klinghoffer also contributes as a keynote speaker.

• Thursday, May 2, 8 p.m.

Then, the 40-person Long Island Concert • Tickets start at $50; available Orchestra — under the baton of music director at TillesCenter.org, or (516) and conductor Enrico Fagone — takes the 299-3100 spotlight. The orchestra’s repertoire includes • Tilles Center for the the world debut of “Adriatica.” Winkler Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., composed the piece to celebrate the oceanic Brookville connections between people. Its namesake is a node to the Adriatic Sea, which connects Eastern Italy to the Middle East.

“It has a multifaceted melodic personality to it — several different melodies, not just one,” Winkler says.“Over the course of the work, these melodies are joined together and ultimately, they produce the finale, which is extremely uplifting and powerful.”

The orchestra is joined by acclaimed pianist Alessandro Mazzamuto, in his Long Island Concert Orchestra debut. He’ll perform Robert Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54.

“I believe that love of music and artistic expression is love for humanity,” Mazzamuto says. “As a concert pianist and teacher, my heart goes out to the students of Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance. And I wish to dedicate my performance and interpretation of Schumann’s emotional piano concerto to them.”

This evening is all about bringing the local and global community together — the very definition of the Long Island Concert Orchestra.

“Our mission is to provide the best possible performances of international repertoire,” Winkler says. “To bring world-class artists, worldclass musicians, as well as world premieres of international caliber.”

The orchestra leads the way in delivering visibility to a commitment to tolerance, respect and the arts.

“Music is what brings people together,” Furshpan says. “All forms of art bring people together. We truly believe that this (concert) is going to help the two organizations do some great work.

“At the same time, Symphony of Hope is really about the audience.

They are the symphony of hope — the audience and the music in combination.”

Tracy Morgan Tracy Morgan is touring with a bracing new show, and he’s funnier than he’s ever been. A name synonymous with laughter, he continues to be reckoned with in the world of stand-up and television. Morgan boasts an impressive career spanning decades.

From his hilarious characters on ‘Saturday Night Live’ (think Astronaut Jones and Brian Fellows) to his unforgettable role on the award-winning ‘30 Rock,’ Morgan has consistently brought audiences to tears (of laughter, of course).

Coming to fame as a stand-up, Morgan became a household name through his seven-season stint on Tina Fey’s ‘30 Rock,’ playing a thinly veiled version of himself named Tracy Jordan. On his current tour, Morgan continues his comeback following his life-threatening 2014 traffic accident on the New Jersey turnpike. Morgan is always welcome back up on the stage where he belongs.

Saturday, April 27, 8 p.m. $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49.50.

The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com, or ParamountNY. com.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

Chris Ruggiero’s musical moments

Your Neighborhood

THE May

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‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’ Get a head start on beach season with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. We’re all eager for summertime to arrive, meanwhile Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, back on the Paramount stage, Saturday, May 4, 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along.

The Long Island based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rio, lead guitar/ backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione, have been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair.

If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35. $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

On exhibit On stage Families will enjoy another musical adventure, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, April 26, 11:30 a.m.,2:15 p.m., 6:15 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, April 30-May 3, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Back by popular demand after a sold-out 2023 run, see Pigeon, Bus Driver, and some zany passengers sing and dance their way to helping The Pigeon find his “thing” in this upbeat, energetic comedy based on four of Mo Willems’ popular Pigeon books.

Featuring a live band to bring Deborah Wicks La Puma’s jazzy score to life, audiences will thoroughly enjoy singing and flapping along with The Pigeon and friends. The audience is part of the action, in this innovative mix of songs, silliness and feathers.

It’s an ideal way to introduce kids to theater and the humorous stories from Willems’ books. $10 with museum admission ($8 members), $14 theater only.

Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution,” is a comprehensive exhibit featuring a diverse range of compositions from the 1980s through the present by creators who were based in the rough and tumble downtown area of New York City known as Loisaida/LES (Lower East Side/East Village) and close surrounding neighborhoods.

Artists pushed the boundaries of what was considered “art” with a primary focus on street/graffiti art.

The exhibit’s scope, guest curated by art collector/gallerist Christopher Pusey, offers an even broader view from other creative residents, who worked inside their studios but still contributed to the rich fabric of the downtown art scene from different vantage points and aesthetics.

Works include sculpture, paintings, photography, music, and ephemera from many noted and influential artists. On view through July 7. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

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Unity Through Diversity

Take a trip “Under the Sea” with the St. Agnes Drama Club’s production of Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid.’ Performances will be held in the school auditorium.

Thursday through Saturday, April 25-27. Showtime starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit StAgnes-School.org. 70 Clinton Ave.

School Board candidates’ forum If the annual school board elections are contested, a candidates’ forum will be held in the South Side High School auditorium, Thursday, May 2, at 7 p.m. 140 Shepherd St.

Enjoy an engaging afternoon of beautiful music, Sunday, April 28, 5 p.m. Tim Carl, Music Director of St. Dominic, Oyster Bay, presents a program of operatic arias and piano selections with soprano Jennifer Russo and pianist Tim Carl. A meet-and-greet reception is included. $75, $70 members of Friends of Seminary.

Reservations are required. The concert takes place at Retreat and Conference Center of the Seminary of Immaculate Conception, 440 West Neck Road, Huntington. Reserve at ICSeminary.edu/events or call (63) 423-0483 ext. 102.

Catching up with the Village The next meeting of the Village of Rockville Centre Board of Trustees takes place at Village Hall, on Monday, May 6, at 7 p.m. 1 College Place.

On stage Plaza Theatrical’s season continues with “Lady Supreme: A Diana Ross Experience,” Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m. Deanna Carroll, accompanied by top notch singers and musicians, covers the hits of the Supremes to Diana’s solo sensations in this spectacular tribute to the Supreme Diva. She performs all of Diana’s biggest hits, with spot-on vocals, including “Endless Love,” “Someday We’ll Be Together,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Touch Me in The Morning,” and so many more. Get in the groove at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre. 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Having an event?

Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.

Museum Gallery Tour Join curator, art collector and gallerist Christopher Pusey for a tour of “Urban Art Evolution,” Nassau County Museum of Art’s current exhibition, Sunday, May 5, 3 p.m. Pusey, the exhibit’s guest curator, began art-making as a child and went on to pursue a career working in art galleries, and as an art dealer, in New York City. His particular interest in the art from this time and genre began with his first job at a Soho gallery in SoHo during the 80s, which had a division specializing in some of the East Village artists featured in this show. Free with museum admission. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.

Visit NassauMuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337 for information.

May

Baby shower for moms-to-be

Mercy Hospital hosts this free event for expecting momsto-be, Saturday, May 11, noon to 2 p.m., in the lower level cafeteria. With raffles, giveaways for mom and baby, and meet and greets with physicians, lactation specialists, mother/baby nurses, games and more. For moms only. 1000 N. Village Ave. Email Elizabeth.Schwind@chsli.org to register. For more information, visit CHSLI.org/mercy-hospital or call (516) 626-3729.

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Dinosaur Renaissance Faire Visit the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning at the Tanglewood Preserve and travel back to a much different era in history, back to a period where kings and queens ruled the land.

The Dinosaur Renaissance Faire promises to be a unique experience featuring shows, games, crafts and much more, Saturday through Tuesday, April 20-30, f0 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets available at the door; free with purchase of museum tickets. For more information visit CSTL.org. 1450 Tanglewood Road.

Spring Vibes, Brunch & Beats at the Caffe On Park!

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St. Agnes Cathedral School presents ‘The Little Mermaid’

Spring Musicale

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure, Saturday, May 4, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stroll the gardens and listen to Antoine Ó Flatharta’s modern tale, “Hurry and the Monarch.”

Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5.

Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.

Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

19 North Park Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 (516) 766-7557

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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

Molloy University hosts The Rebecca Center for Music Therapy’s 5th annual Unity Through Diversity: Celebrating All Abilities in the Arts event, on Friday, April 26, 6-8 p.m., at the Madison Theatre.

Performances include “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder, “Come Together” by The Beatles and “We Will Rock You” by Queen. Open to the public.

Tickets are $25 at the door. For tickets and more information, visit MadisonTheatreNY.org or call (516) 323-4444.

Storybook Stroll

Rockville Centre native flies Super Hornet U.S. Navy pilot Lt. Daniel Fisk shares his experiences in the military

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Lt. Daniel Fisk, a United States Navy pilot and Rockville Centre native, is a member of Strike Fighter Squadron 11, which currently operates the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet jet aircraft.

Fisk graduated from Chaminade High School in 2014, and four years later, signed up to join the Navy.

He said that many of the skills and values he has relied on to succeed in the military are similar to those he acquired right here at home.

“My parents taught me to work hard,” Fisk said.

“My high school job was a lifeguard and that taught me to help others and keep a positive attitude, while my Catholic schooling taught me to have strong faith.”

Today, Fisk serves as a naval aviator, carrying on his family legacy of military service. “My grandfathers set an example of service in the Army and Marine Corps,” he said. “I always wanted to fly and wanted my education to be paid for. I also wanted to see interesting parts of the world.”

He said that in addition to living up to his grandfather’s example, there was one person in particular he wanted to thank for helping make his Navy career possible.

“My cousin, Army Sgt. Robert Manz, joined a year before I started ROTC,” Fisk said. “He set the example I wanted to follow. When I saw him traveling the world and learning new things and meeting new people, I knew that I wanted that too.”

The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. It is capable of taking off and landing aboard Navy aircraft

carriers at sea, engaging in air-to-air combat, and striking targets on land.

Fisk said that flying the Super Hornet has been an incredible opportunity, which he places at the top of his list of accomplishments as a Navy pilot. He said another of his proudest moments as an aviator was landing aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier.

“It was probably the most nervous I’ve ever been,” Fisk said. “That flight deck looks like a postage stamp on the water. There is no way to prepare for the feeling of that landing, but it was the best feeling ever.”

Navy aircraft carriers are typically designed for a 50-year service life and often host a crew of more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard. When the air wing is embarked, the ship is capable of carrying more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, essentially making it a self-contained mobile airport at sea.

These massive vessels are often the first response to a global crisis, because of their ability to operate freely in international waters across the world.

With 90 percent of global commerce transported by sea, and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials have emphasized how the prosperity of the country is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people — like Fisk — across the rich fabric of America.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” Admiral Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations, said.

“Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

To learn more about the F/A-18 Super Hornet jet aircraft, visit Boeing.com/Defense

Courtesy U.S. Navy

U.S. Navy pilot Lt. Daniel Fisk of Rockville Centre.

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April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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OBITUARIES Beloved father, friend Steven Lynch remembered

Robert “George” Etienne died on March 25, 2024 at the age of 97.

He was born on July 23, 1926, in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and was the second child of Mary and George Etienne, who also had a daughter, Theresa. His g r a n d p a r e n t s, Ro b e r t a n d “ M i n i , ” a l o n g w i t h U n cl e Lenny and Uncle Larry helped raise him in Richmond Hill, Queens. He attended Holy Trinity secondary school and later studied at Georgetown University under the GI Bill.

Etienne was drafted when he was 18, to serve in the United States Army during World War II in the European Theatre. He was deployed and served with the 10th Armored Division and 61st Armored Infantry Battalion from Oct. 26, 1944 to July 29, 1946, serving in France and Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroism, the Purple Heart Medal for his wounds sustained in action and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He rarely discussed his wartime experiences.

Soon after returning to the United States, he married his

Steven Bryan Lynch of Amityville died early to cook breakfast, coordinating weekend suddenly on April 11, 2024, at the untimely age outings at the beach and showing off his elabof 62. He was a beloved father, and a friend to orate Christmas village during the holidays. all, whose kindness, compassion, humor and He was also a loyal fan of the New York care for others made every person he encoun- Mets, New York Jets and New York Islanders. tered feel special.

He celebrated every victory with great zeal, He was born on April 10, 1962 in Brooklyn, and, while he felt his teams’ losses, he always to parents Raymond Edward and remained loyal.

Trudy Lynch. Steven graduated He is preceded in death by his from West Islip High School in beloved father, Ray Lynch, and his 1980, where he earned three varsibrother-in-law, Glen Ger rato. ty letters as an inside linebacker.

Lynch is survived by his mother, He later went on to attend the UniTrudy; his four children, the loves versity of Buf falo, where he of his life, Meghan (Kevin) Brown, received a degree in finance.

Steven (Daniella) Lynch, Chelsea Lynch was a successful Wall Lynch, Timothy Lynch; his one Street executive who previously and only granddaughter, Reagan held positions as managing direcBrown; his two brothers, Raymond tor and head of international trad(Stephanie) and Scott (Linda); his ing at Citibank, HSBC and JPMorfather-in-law and mother-in-law, Steven Lynch gan. He was also a passionate menAnthony and Rosemary Gerrato; tor, who would always find time to his brother-in-law Anthony (Lisa) give advice.

Gerrato); his sister-in-law, LeeAnn (Jason Most recently, he channeled his passion for Kroll); and nine nieces and nephews, whom helping others into leading business opera- he doted upon, Bryan (Lauren) Gerrato, Ryan tions at Atria Tanglewood, a senior assisted (Jackie) Lynch, Jennifer (Derek) Bush, Oliva living center in Lynbrook, where, he estab- (Brian) Burlage, Scott Michael Lynch, Sofia lished himself as a trusted partner to his col- Gerrato, Maddy Gerrato, Lindsay Gerrato, leagues, clients and their families. Everyone Elena Gerrato; and his newly added great knew they could count on Steven to ensure niece, Charlotte Bush. residents would receive compassionate care.

A funeral Mass was held at St. Agnes Family and friends were what were most Cathedral on April 15. In lieu of flowers, the important to Lynch. In his free time, he family asks that donations be made to Tunnel enjoyed hosting family gatherings, waking up for Towers or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

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wife of 72 years, Mary. Together they had 8 children and resided in Rockville Centre since the 1950s. He worked as a salesman and inventor, having developed the “long skateboard” and “walking duck” — for which he claims he was unable to keep up with production from the demand for these items.

He will be remembered for being a loving family man, for his helping nature — as he was always willing to lend a hand — for his unique method for finishing the contents of jarred goods and for being a humble American hero.

Etienne was laid to rest on Thursday, March 28 at Calverton National Cemetery in Wading River. He did not want funeral home services and opted instead for a simple traditional Military burial, followed by a luncheon with his family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, George requested that those commemorating his life make a donation to the Ken Pribil Jr. Foundation in memory of his grandson Ken Jr.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

WWII veteran Robert Etienne, 97

April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

18

THANK YOU!

Courtesy Congressman Anthony D’Esposito

u.S. rep. anthony d’esposito recently secured $241,000 through the House appropriations committee for the rockville Centre police department to purchase six new license plate readers that will be posted up along merrick road.

$241,000 earmarked for new license plate readers

The Empire State Local News Coalition—more than 200 local newspapers strong—is grateful to the State of New York for including a first-in-the-nation tax credit to support local journalism in the FY'25 state budget.

Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murlocal law enforcement to identify the ray said that over the course of his license plates of passing motorists and 12-year-tenure in office, the Village of will notify the RVCPD depending on Rockville Centre has received more than whether a vehicle is unregistered, if the $52 million by aggressively seeking driver has a suspended license, or if grants from the federal, state and local there is a pre-existing warrant out for governments. their arrest.

“If you think you can get away with These devices are not designed to crime in this village, you’re not. We’re capture images of the drivgoing to get you,” he said. er, their car, or the sur“ We h ave c a m e r a s a l l rounding area. They do not around the village.” monitor speed or traffic vioMurray said the village lations. They are specificalboard remains steadfast in ly there to help deter crimiits commitment to ensure nal behavior. the safety of the people of One scenario where this Rockville Centre. In addican help law enforcement is tion to the new license plate if a burglary were to take readers, the department has place in or around the vilalso recently added two new lage. Police can use the police vehicles with funding license plate reader to look provided by New York Sen. up and find cars that left the SuSAn Gottehrer Kevin Thomas in December. village within a certain Nassau County Since January, the village timeframe to help narrow director, has also added three new down their search. This can uniformed officers to the New York Civil also be a critical tool for department’s ranks, bringLiberties Union police in missing person ing its total up to 61 sworn cases. of ficers and 36 civilian Every police plate reader in New employees.

York is digitally connected, meaning Susan Gottehrer, director of the Nasthat the data any device collects is sau County chapter of the New York transmitted to every other reader in the Civil Liberties Union, argued however, state. This means that if another plate that residents should also be wary of reader picks up a plate belonging to the surveillance capabilities this prosomeone suspected of committing a vides law enforcement. crime in Rockville Centre, that depart“Automated license plate readers ment can inform RVCPD within min- threaten the privacy of all Long Islandutes. ers,” Gottehrer said. “This invasive Police already have such devices at technology gives local police access to their disposal, including license plate our every movement — where we work, readers in operation on Lakeview Ave- who we meet, where we pray, and even nue, North Centre Avenue, Long Beach which doctors we visit. Long Island resiRoad, DeMott Avenue, Seaman Avenue, dents don’t want the police or governHempstead Avenue, and Sunrise High- ment bodies having access to their most way. They also have mobile plate read- intimate information. We deserve safety ers affixed to some police vehicles. and privacy over our daily lives.”

Continued from page 1

A special thanks to:

A

Governor Kathy Hochul

Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (Senate Sponsor)

State Senator Kevin Thomas

Assemblyman Brian Curran

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (Assembly Sponsor) Communities throughout the Empire State appreciate your commitment to the free press and to democracy.

SaveNYLocalNews.com

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utomated license plate readers threaten the privacy of all Long Islanders.

Legislator Scott Davis hosts e-waste event

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

Local residents came on foot and in more than 100 vehicles to the Long Island Rail Road parking lot in Rockville Centre on April 13 to take advantage of the opportunity to securely and safely dispose of unwanted documents and electronic devices during the inaugural shredding and small electronics disposal event hosted by Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis.

Participants lined up down the block for the opportunity to shred unwanted documents and dispose of any small electronic devices, including laptops, cell phones and computer monitors which were discarded in a secure, environmentally friendly manner. During the event, which was presented in partnership with Pre-

mier Recycling Solutions, guests were treated to free coffee from event cosponsor Kookaburra Coffee in Rockville Centre.

“The community was incredibly appreciative of the convenient, environmentally friendly opportunity that our inaugural shredding and e-cycling event presented, and the biggest question they were asking us was when we would be doing it again,” Legislator Davis said. “I am especially thankful to Premier Recycling for generously donating their time and services, the Village of Rockville Centre’s administration for their assistance, and to Kookaburra for donating their fabulous coffee to warm us all up on a chilly, rainy day.”

Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis hands out free cups of hot coffee provided by co-sponsors with Kookaburra Coffee, during the inaugural shredding and e-cycling event on April 13.

Photos courtesy Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis

Legislator Davis partnered with Premier Recycling Solutions to help residents shred unwanted documents and properly dispose of e-waste.

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20

Public Notices In the spirit of togetherness PASSOVER MESSAGE

April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

LROC1 0425

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 88WIN , LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 03/12/2024.

NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 88WIN LLC ATTN: DONALD 265 SUNRISE HWY #341, ROCKVILLE CENTRE NY 11570 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU. U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff againstROBERT G. KNOWLES, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 14, 2023 and entered on November 15, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Rockville Centre, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as Section 36 Block 496 Lot 13.

Said premises known as 419 WOODBRIDGE ROAD, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570 Approximate amount of lien $302,613.49 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 611814/2022.

AUDRA A. DIVONE, ESQ., Referee DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 DLG 38675 {* ROCK CEN H*} 145822 PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NEW YORK NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL ESTATE FOR UNPAID VILLAGE TAXES AND/OR WATER RENT ARREARS AND/OR GARBAGE DISPOSAL FEES AND/OR ASSESSMENTS REMAINING UNPAID FOR THE YEAR 2023.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the provisions of the New York Real Property Tax Law as applicable to the Village of Rockville Centre (“Village”), and pursuant to direction of the Village Board of Trustees, the undersigned Village ClerkTreasurer/Village Administrator will sell at Public Auction in the manner provided by law on May 23, 2024 at 10:00 am local prevailing time in the courtroom of the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, One College Place, Rockville Centre, Nassau County, New York, so much of each of the following parcels upon which Village Taxes and/or Water Rent Arrears and/or Garbage Disposal Fees and/or Assessments remain unpaid for the year 2023 as will be sufficient to discharge the taxes and/or water rent arrears and/or garbage disposal fees and/or assessments, fees, interest and discharges which may be due thereon respectively at the time of such sale, and shall continue the same from day to day until the said sale shall be completed. The Village reserves the right to withdraw any property prior to the sale of its lien.

The parcels have not been researched to determine what the public records reflect regarding these properties, and the Village makes no representation with respect to such records or property status. Before bidding, all tax lien purchasers should investigate what the public records disclose about the property in question.

All persons bidding at the sale will be required to produce identification with full legal name and address. Persons acting as agent for another will be required to produce documentation of authority.

Such real estate will be sold subject to any unpaid tax liens purchased and held by the Village.

The purchaser or purchasers of such tax sale will be required to pay the amount of their respective bids to the undersigned within TEN days after the sale pursuant to the provisions of Section 1454 of the New York Real Property Tax Law and Village Local Law #12-1994. Payment may be made only by cash, money order, bank check or certified check.

No personal checks will be accepted. Where no bid is made and/or the bidder does not timely pay the balance of the bid, it shall be deemed that the tax lien for that premises has been purchased by and sold to the Village of Rockville Centre.

THE VILLAGE DOES NOT

PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE TO ANY LIEN PURCHASER REGARDING ANY ASPECT OF THE PURCHASE OF OR FORECLOSURE UPON ANY LIEN. The following is a list or statement of the Real Estate upon which such Tax and/or Garbage Disposal Fees and/or Assessments are unpaid for the year 2023 with a statement of the amount of tax, and/or water rent arrears, and/or garbage disposal fees, and/or assessments, fees, interest and charges thereon to May 1, 2024.

NAME OF OWNER OR OCCUPANT AS IT APPEARS ON ASSESSMENT ROLL; DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY; TOTAL AMOUNT OF TAX, WATER RENT ARREARS, GARBAGE DISPOSAL FEES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES, INTEREST CHARGES AT MAY 1, 2024.

Nancy Howard Clerk-Treasurer/Village Administrator Sec 35, Blk 088, Lot 22 Estate of Estella Mitchell 65 Lakeside Dr $ 5,507.54 Sec 36, Blk 335, Lot 541 Elizabeth Boldi 127 Berkshire Rd $ 8,267.26 Sec 36, Blk 357, Lot 281 Asset Tree Group Ltd 15 Shepherd St $ 5,758.85 Sec 36, Blk 358, Lot 456 William F Kurrus 12 Shepherd St $ 5,468.90 Sec 36, Blk 363, Lot 49 Brian Croutier 51 Voorhis Ave $ 8,453.38 Sec 36, Blk 381, Lot 46 Paul/Sherry Durnan 190 Voorhis Ave $ 2,745.57 Sec 36, Blk 428, Lot 114 Robert/Allison Creagh 12 Banbury Rd $ 5,139.87 Sec 36, Blk 458.-45, Lot 2 Jeff/Tara Hackett 92 Arrandale Rd $ 4,507.91 Sec 36, Blk 499, Lot 41 Ingibjorg Gallagher LE 21 Knollwood Rd $ 101.44 Sec 38, Blk 182, Lot 29 Brian Henry/Caitlin Nolan 26 Loel Ct $ 4,915.26 Sec 38, Blk 183, Lot 40 Vasilia Jamoulis LE 232 Hempstead Ave $ 4,360.52 Sec 38, Blk 189, Lot 17 Estate of Kathleen Powell 83 Clinton Ave $ 932.87 Sec 38, Blk 191, Lot 7 55 Front LLC 55 Front St $ 16,288.92 Sec 38, Blk 193, Lot 102 23 Maple Ave LLC

23 Maple Ave $ 640.87

Sec 38, Blk 193, Lot 146 23 Maple Avenue LLC 23 Maple Ave $ 6,499.94 Sec 38, Blk 204, Lot 564 William M Entler Jr 30 Raymond St $ 1,869.49 Sec 38, Blk 213, Lot 43 Joanne Harms 83 Marvin Ave $ 6,070.44 Sec 38, Blk 215 Lot 115 John Jamoulis 416 Morris Ave $ 3,756.16 Sec 38, Blk 219 Lot 319 Nancy A Beaulieu 32 Amherst Ct $ 4,939.06 Sec 38, Blk 220, Lot 21 Elizabeth Porterfield 462 Morris Ave $ 1,822.24 Sec 38, Blk 225, Lot 1 Estate of Glenda Kaplan 85 Devon Rd $ 5,688.05 Sec 38, Blk 238, Lot 62 Karl/Maureen Kellman 288 Brower Ave $ 6,439.90 Sec 38, Blk 240, Lot 28 Five Towns RE Corp 39 Schuyler Ave $ 108.18 Sec 38, Blk 240, Lot 220 Five Towns RE Corp 39 Schuyler Ave $ 4,065.70 Sec 38, Blk 243, Lot 5 Factor Dynamics Vacant Land -Hawthorne Ave $ 270.00 Sec 38, Blk 243, Lot 23 Julia Atteritano Irrev Trust 171 So Kensington Ave $ 5.873.48 Sec 38, Blk 245, Lot 182 Wells Fargo Bank 315 No Forest Ave $ 3,652.32 Sec 38, Blk 261, Lot 474 Giuseppe/Antonia Lascala 124 Raymond St $ 2,111.32 Sec 38, Blk 267, Lot 8 Stephen Wollweber 226 No Forest Ave $ 2,052.90

E

ver since I returned from my special mission to Israel a few months ago, I have been asked: “Rabbi-how was it?” My response has been: “exhilarating and sad” — both at the same time. It was exhilarating to bear witness to the resilience of our proud people, but sad, oh so sad, to see our vibrant nation knocked down.

On October 7, everything changed.

Suddenly, for the first time, Israelis did not feel protected. Wherever I went, everyone knew someone who was kidnapped or killed. Israel, which has been rated as one of the “happiest nations in the world,” is now depressed, forlorn.

The rabbis tell us that the darkness, one of the Ten Plagues, was so thick and heavy, it could actually be felt. So too is the despair in Israel at the present time. It has been just a little over six months since the massacre, thick and heavy. That’s what I saw and that’s what I am reporting to you with a heavy heart.

This week, Israelis are facing four new questions: What will happen to the hostages held in the claws of a vicious enemy who lack any morsel of humanity? What is happening to the women caught in that hell? How will the families of the hostages cope? What if the

next Iranian attack is not repelled as successfully as the most recent one?

The main thing right now is for Israelis and all Jews to hold on to each other and create even more community resilience.

Here are some of my suggestions for this year at our Seders: Leave at least one chair at our tables vacant for a hostage. If possible acquire a name and photo of a hostage.

Add a special prayer for the hostages and their families.

Emphasize the inner strength of the Jewish people that began with that first exodus and continues to this day.

To those who use the word “genocide” for what the Israelis are doing to the Palestinians, quote the prophet Isaiah, chapter 5, verse 20: “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.”

This venomous and unjust slander against Israelis intolerable, and we must refute the lies.

I am very pleased that I went on this “mission” to bear witness and share with them their pain and brokenness.

I d believe in miracles. I believe we will come out of this horror victorious, and strong and with Jewish life whole, together!

Am Yisrael Chai Rabbi Emeritus Barry Dov Schwartz

Public Notices Sec 38, Blk 289, Lot 502 WMG Rockville Owner LLC 117 No Long Beach Rd $ 38,456.32 Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 2 45 N Village LLC 45 No Village Ave $ 6,893.33

Hwy $ 327.31

Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 19 Argaman Realty LLC 500 Sunrise Hwy $ 6,791.31 Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 37 1859 Flatbush LLC 490 Sunrise Hwy $ 8,449.96

$ 2,935.88

Sec 38, Blk 338, Lot 49 Merrick Rd RVC RE LLC 500 Merrick Rd $ 8,125.66 Sec 38, Blk 345, Lot 274 South Long Beach Rd LLC 62 So Long Beach Rd $ 8373.12 Sec 38, Blk 345, Lot 342 S&J Ocean Properties Inc 58 So Long Beach Rd $ 2,427.29

Sec 38, Blk 268, Lot 23 Robert Nilsson 218 No Forest Ave $ 3,776.39

Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 3 Bergen Street Commons LLC 43 No Village Ave $ 9,474.27

Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 38 486 Green Sun LLC 486 Sunrise Hwy $ 3,958.31

Sec 38, Blk 274, Lot 337 Felix Cujilan 14 Jackson Ave $ 5,421.69

Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 32 45 N Village Ave LLC 45 No Village Ave $ 135.14

Sec 38, Blk 318, Lot 352 1 No Village LLC 1 No Village Ave $ 11,478.31

Sec 38, Blk 276, Lot 139 Mary E Bree 17 Southard Ave $ 6,541.04

Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 7 486 Green Sun LLC 486 Sunrise Hwy $ 3,297.47

Sec 38, Blk 329, Lot 7 Michael Vignola 19 So Marion Pl $ 7,707.41

Sec 38, Blk 416, Lot 332 California Place North Realty Co LLC 5 Arbor Ln $ 7,923.37

Sec 38, Blk 281, Lot 4 County Acquisitions LLC 165 No forest Ave $ 2,815.51

Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 9 486 Green Sun LLC 486 Sunrise Hwy $ 10,354.05

Sec 38, Blk 286, Lot 22 Christopher J Lyons 486 Lakeview Ave $ 4,147.26

Sec 38, Blk 329, Lot 15 Lawrence R, John M and Gianna Maurello 390 Merrick Rd $ 2,561.82

Sec 38, Blk 436, Lot 435 U225 Vincent Andreassi 99 So Park Ave - Unit 225 $ 1,518.39

Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 18 Argaman Realty LLC

Sec 38, Blk332, Lot 1 Mark/Anne Kilarjian 54 So Forest Ave

Sec 38, Blk 436, Lot 435 U301 Beth Fetner

Vacant Land - Sunrise

Sec 38, Blk 347, Lot 380 Arthur/Elizabeth Edwards 259 Lincoln Ave $ 5,568.94

99 So Park Ave - Unit 301 $ 1,154.18

Sec 38, Blk 436, Lot 435 U324 Don Dreyer 99 So Park Ave - Unit 324 $ 1,839.78 Sec 38, Blk 513, Lot 102 Frank Romano 15 Milton Ct $ 2,933.51 Sec 54, Blk D.03, Lot 2 Michael/Patricia Bonagura 8 Gateway $ 5,279.34 Sec 54, Blk D.03, Lot 45 Doris Varca Vacant Land - Fenway $ 168.86 Sec 54, Blk 60.02, Lot 44 Tiffany & ROA LLC 212 Seaman Ave $ 5,247.05 Sec 54, Blk 116, Lot 128 Michael/Nancy Banta 72 New York Ave $ 6,340.39 146352

To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

21

H1 04/25

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Send cover letter & resume to: hr@merrick.k12.ny.us

Salary Range $33,280 to $100,000 including Commissions & Bonuses

1253686

$16.00/Per Hour

In the email subject line please include the job title for which you are interested in applying. EOE

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted

GOODYEAR AUTO CENTER

AUTO MECHANIC (F/T or P/T) $2000.00 HIRING BONUS Starting Salary $75,000 Experience in General Repairs Long Beach And Queens

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma

NYS License Clean 3 Years $20 - $25/ Hour

Call 516-731-3000

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business.

H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

Call (516) 661-8471

Send Resume: yonab@autofix.com

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 fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales 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 $33,280 + 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

REPORTER/EDITOR FT/PT (Salary Range $20,000 to $45,000)

MAILROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $17 per hour)

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT/PT

(Salary Range $20 per hour to $30 per hour)

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships.

Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses.

Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

DRIVERS FT/PT (Salary Range $17 per hour to $21 per hour)

Email Your Resumes to Careers@liherald.com or Call

ext 200

*Outside Sales must have car

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop.

Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Eldercare Needed

SENIOR LADY WANTS Other Senior For Doctor's Visits, Shopping. Use Light Transport Chair. $14+/Hr. 516-354-6280

RECEPTIONIST/ P/T: SEASONAL, Warm, Friendly, Excellent People Skills, Office Work/ Customer Service, Beach Club. 516-239-2150

Health Care/Opportunities

WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED!!!

HHA's, LPN's, Nurse's Aides Childcare, Housekeeping Day Workers No Fee To Employers

OUTSIDE SALES

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $23 per hour)

1234932

MERRICK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

HERALD

Serving The Community Over 20 Years

Evon's Services 516-505-5510

Situations Wanted ADMINISTRATOR AVAILABLE To Work For You FT/ PT Immediately. I'm Experienced. RVC Vicinity. Call 516-536-6994

Eldercare Offered SANTA CRUZ SERAG Caregivers Provide The Best Male/ Female Caregivers In America. Certified HHA's, Professional. Experts In Dementia, Alzheimers, Parkinsons Cases. Live-in/Out. Gertrude 347-444-0960

your own.

Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!

Call us today!

Your Hometown Newspaper

To Place an Ad Call: 516-569-4000 • Press 5

H2 04/25

Homes

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HOME Of tHE WEEK

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Long Beach

Beachside Beauty

C

ome see this beautiful open floor plan home, only one block from our pristine beaches. This beauty features 3 bedrooms, including a large master bedroom with ensuite and a custom walk-in closet. The first floor has a family room/den, two additional bedrooms with walk-in closets, a full bath, and laundry. There are sliders that extend out to the driveway and fenced in patio with outdoor shower, and garden with sprinkler. The garage is equipped with an Elfa shelving system. The kitchen has a Bosch stove & refrigerator and granite countertops. The home boasts a stone gas fireplace and sliders to a deck with gas barbeque connected to the house.

Additional amenities include an enclosed loft with full bath, hardwood floors and a whole house water filtration system.

Rhonda Healy CENTURY 21 Verdeschi & Walsh Realty 1025 W. Beech Street Long Beach 516-236-7269 rhondaghealy@gmail.com

A BETTER WAY TO BUY AND SELL REAL ESTATE! “Call A Realtor With Proven Experience!”

Rob Kolb Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Tripodi Shemtov Team

1254297

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

30 West Park Ave | Long Beach, NY 11561 Cell: 516-314-1728 • Office: 516-432-3400 Rob.Kolb@elliman.com • Elliman.com/RobKolb

Results that Move You

1240395

REAL ESTATE Apartments For Rent 1251569

CEDARHURST NO FEE Pr ivate Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For O n e B e d r o o m W h e n Ava i l a bl e.

(516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

This Robin won’t rest until you are in your new NEST! How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service!

“Leading Edge Award Winner” Robin Reiss

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Cell: 516.510.6484 Office: 516.623.4500 Robin.Reiss@elliman.com

1251967

April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

22

ISLAND PARK: 1 BR, ground floor, all renovated, water/heat included. No Pets. $2200/ month. 516-316-6962

Commercial Prop./Rent EAST ROCKAWAY: 131 Main Street 2nd Floor Offices. 200-700 sq.ft. 24/7 access. Utilities included. Starting $575/ month. Retail Space 1500 sq.ft. $3,900/ month. OWNER 516-637-2182 F R E E P O RT A R E A : C O M M E R C I A L Parking Available. Sunrise Highway/Henry Street Vicinity. Property is Illuminated and Fenced in. Vans and Trailers Welcome. $ 3 0 0 / m o n t h . C a l l / Te x t B o b @ 516-779-1661

Cemetery Plots BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY. 3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $5000; Purchase Together $14000.

Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316

Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Protecting a condo from flooding

Q. I want to buy an attached home, and the houses around the condos have been raised. Our community got a lot of water during a big flood, so I’m told, since I didn’t live there at the time.

I’m wondering, if I move into this condo, which I have to decide about right away, what can I do to protect it from flooding? It doesn’t look like the owners association wants to do anything. What can I do to this unit to be flood-proof?

A. The flooding you’re referring to could have been from any number of high tide and storm episodes, but I’m pretty sure you’re talking about Superstorm Sandy or Tropical Storm Irene. In both events, many of us witnessed the water levels and understood the impact of a high tide, and what high winds can produce. onte eeper There are things you can do, such as checking to see what level the building is, by going on the Federal Emergency Management Website, MSC. FEMA.gov. Look for the icon for flood maps and type in the building address. You’ll see a very detailed satellite image of the water lines that were recorded specifically at the crest of the highest water episode in recent years.

Look for your building. The streets should be labeled, but if not, look for identifiable shapes of buildings, street curves, main roads or even railroads to figure out the building location.

Next, look for the letters and numbers for the different colored areas. If your potential building is in the area marked with an X, this is a good sign. It means the particular outlined area was not subject to the flooding. If it has an ae and a number, such as 8, 9, etc., with the letters, that indicates that zone got flooded, and your floor is required to be at least 2 feet higher than that designation.

You find the level of the first floor and lowest floor by examining records at your local building department, if they have the updated record since around 2012, or you’ll need to get an elevation certificate made by hiring a land surveyor.

Since time is not on your side and a surveyor has to go to the site and take heights to determine what to put in an official elevation certificate, you are left to ask neighbors questions, or take the risk, or move on.

Nothing seems to move as fast as a real estate decision, and quite often I’m asked questions for which the answers are what neither buyer nor seller really wants to hear. Details are critical for one of the most important investments you’ll ever make, one that controls your financial life, so if you don’t have the time, decide on what risk to take. You could flood-proof all of the first floor walls, but how can anyone be certain the neighbor’s walls are also flood-proofed? Good luck!

Ask The Architect

M

L

© 2024 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

23

H3 04/25

FRANCISCO’S TREE SERVICE

1253790

FREE ESTIMATES

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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

& lANdSCApINg • Tree Removal • Stumps • Fertilization • Planting • Land Clearing • Topping Lic# H206773000

Office: 516-546-4971 Cell: 516-852-5415

OWA_GotClutter_BW_Bold

CALL FOR YOUR Sunday, August 02, 2020 11:31:01 AM

ANNUAL TUNE UP

ELECTRICIAN

Your Safety Is Our Top Priority Now Offering Seasonal Tune Ups Starting At $199 with FREE Chimney Inspection.

Beato Fuel Serving Nassau And Suffolk Counties For Over 115 Years

For All Your Electrical Jobs"!

SINCE 1988 A + Rated Member BBB Lic./Ins. Free Est

10% OFF

w/ad (Not to exceed $200)

1253228

Exp. 7/15/24

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$100 OFF

Service Upgrades Exp. 7/15/24

Ceiling Fans, Indoor/Outdoor Lighting Generators, Pools/Spas, Bath Exhaust Fans, Attic Fans, Service Upgrades & More!

general contracting

FIELACK ELECTRIC 516-932-7900 www.fielackelectric.com (24HD)

sPecIalIZING IN: expert leak repair

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516-223-2951

CALL THE TROUBLESHOOTING EXPERTS!

GUARANTEED BEST PRICE BECAUSE WE CARE

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Dormers & Extensions • Fire, Flood & Mold Remediation Bathrooms • Kitchens • Basements • Carpentry • Roofing Flat Shingle • Expert in Fixing Leaks • Attics • All Renovations Masonry • Stoops • Brickwork • Waterproofing • Painting Power Washing • Plumbing • Electric

call 516-428-5777

TREE

FREE

SERVICE

ESTIMATES

OWNER OPERATED

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

CERTIFIED ARBORIST ON STAFF

C.J.M. Contracting Inc.

TREE REMOVAL • LAND CLEARING • PRUNING STUMP GRINDING • ELEVATING • STORM PREVENTION 80 FT. BUCKET TRUCK

1251261

chris mullin Lic. H18C6020000 • LIAB. DISAB + W/C INS.

CALL OWNER DIRECT

CHRIS 516-216-2617 ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Nass. Lic. # 185081

WWW.WECARETREESERVICE.COM

1253995 #1230413

small jobs welcome

CLEAR DRAINS, TUBS, TOILET & SINK SEWERS

Suff. Lic# HI65621

DON’T YOU DESERVE A BEAUTIFUL LAWN? For All your Landscaping Needs….

Organic Lawns • Weekly Maintenance NYS Pesticide License Applicator • Insect Control • Branch Removal Organic Fertilization/Lime Program Stump Grinding/Deep Root Feeding • Much More

OFFERING THE BEST PRICES FOR THE RIGHT JOB...

Serving Your Community for Over 25 Years ACE LANDSCAPING SERVICES, INC,

1253843

1253401�

1250282

516-791-6241 www.acelandscapingservices.com Lic/ins. Nassau County & NYC

PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SERVICE

10%OFF FOR NEW CUSTOMERS 855-244-6880 • 516-830-0166 Fully Licensed And Insured

www.alwaysaffordablechimney.com

TermiTe & insecT service

OIL BURNER SERVICE EXPERTS Servicing All of Nassau County MENTION THIS AD For all your oil burner repairs, AND RECEIVE 10% OFF installs, and cleaning.

SERVICE

Exp. 5/31/24

1251587

Robert O'Brien Oil Burner Service LLC 516-732-1160. Free Estimates.

BOBSBURNERS.COM Nassau License H2409300000

1249267

Offers Valid Valid Through Through12/23/23 6/8/24

alwaysaffchimney@aol.com

1254780 1239965

1250882

Always Affordable Chimney Inc.

24

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HERALD

Stuff

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Home Improvement WIREMAN/CABLEMAN/HANDYMAN FLAT TVS mounted, Phone, TVs&Computer wiring installed & serviced, camera &stereos, HDTV – Antennas- FREE TV w w w. d a v e w i r e m a n . c o m C a l l D a v e 516-433-WIRE (9473) 631-667-WIRE (9473) or Text 516-353-1118

Miscellaneous

Free estimates...Best Price For High Quality service

ANNOUNCEMENTS Tag Sales ELMONT: CARRIAGE HOUSE. Saturday, 4/27/24 10am- 2pm. 1601 Johnson Avenue, Unit 23. Everything Must Go!

Garage Sales MERRICK: 2303 MARGARET BLVD. 4/27, 10AM-3PM. No Early Birds! Rain/ Shine. Crystal, Kitchen, Holiday, Toys, Furniture...

Announcements SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

MERCHANDISE MART Antiques/Collectibles We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid.

SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

WE GET YOUR SEWER AND DRAINS FLOWING AGAIN

$69 $49

Sewer Drains

www.unclogitnow.com

JVR Plumbing & Heating - Nassau Master Plumber lic # 2520 Suffolk # 2111 /Ins

$99

new Hi-Tech Jetting customers only

CALL NOW 888-777-9709

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

Plumbing PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers.

24 Hour Emergency Response.

516-599-1011.

Wanted To Buy

Finds Under $100

Power Washing

FREON WANTED: Certified buyer looking for R11, R12, R22 & more! Call Clarissa at 312-535-8384

G UA R D I A N BAT H T U B T R A N S F E R Bench: Brand New, Fully Assembled. $45 516-826-3727

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: H o u s e s , Fe n c e s , C o n c r e t e / B r i ck , Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

FINDS UNDER $100

RADIAL TIRE R255/65R16 In New Condition. $20 Firm! 516-486-7941

Finds Under $100

SHARP AQUOS 37" LED TV, Model LC-37D43U, 2 remotes, Operator's manual, Excellent. $90.00 516-343-4010

BISELL ELECTRIC CARPET Shampoo Machine with Cleaning Supplies. Like New. $85. 516-486-7941

SERVICES

FORD MUSTANG 5 slot 14" hubcaps with center hub. Model C6ZZ130A. $75.00 for all. 516-859-5099

HErald

Crossword Puzzle

Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry

*MICHAEL LO BAIDO CONSTRUCTION*

Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work, Lic./ Ins. Owner Always Onsite Free Estimates 516-354-5578

Cable/TV/Wiring Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $ 6 0 0 I n G i f t C a r d s . C a l l To d a y !

1-866-782-4069

Electricians E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas.

Services/Repairs. Violations Removed.

Free Estimates Low Rates.

516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Exterminating PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably.

Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Handyman HANDYMAN Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated.

Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112 E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

Home Improvement BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

Health & Fitness ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit.

Call 1-855-399-2719 Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582 HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

Legal Services

Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer.

Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

Telecommunications AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

• System Turn-Ons

• Installations/Renovations Service • Repairs Certified Backflow Tester Free Estimates Licensed and Insured

Joe Barbato 516-826-7700

1251269

Residential and Commercial - All Surfaces Call Anthony Romeo “The Local Guy” “Anthony & J Home Improvement, Inc.” Also specializes in ★ Deck Renovation ★ Driveways ★ Siding ★ Masonry ★ Fences ★ Roofing ★ Interior/Exterior Painting.

(516) 678-6641 - Licensed & Insured

1253365

*Power washing sPecialist*

1252201

April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

Market Place •

H4 04/25

Tree Services FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE

AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

Satellite/TV Equipment DIRECTV SPORTS PACK – 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some res t r i c t i o n s a p p l y. C a l l D I R E C T V 1-888-534-6918

Autos For Sale FORD BOXTRUCK 1989: White, Diesel Motor, 13.900 Original Miles, Sold As Is. Best Offer Will Be Accepted. If Interested Call The West Hempstead Water District.

516-483-1180., LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK 4, 1974. All Black, 80K Miles. Best Offer. Call 516-242-3635

Autos Wanted ***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277

Junk Cars Wanted

HIGHEST CA$H PAID All Cars Bought 24/7 FREE Pickup

Serving Nassau County 41 Years No Title, No Keys=No Problem ID Required. CALL US LAST!

Call us at 516-766-0000

Answers to todAy’s puzzle

25

OpiniOns

any Nassau County residents have their roots in Queens or Brooklyn, having made the decision to migrate from crowded city neighborhoods to leafy, bucolic suburbia. My own experience is probably typical of many. Born in Manhattan, raised in Queens, I attended high school and college in Brooklyn, and moved to Seaford over 50 years ago, where Rosemary raised our family and where we still live.

While all has gone well over the years and I pETER have no regrets about making the KinG move, I do have lasting memories of the friendships I made and the values I learned from those city streets and neighborhoods. There’s a group of eight or nine guys from my high school days in Brooklyn that I still get together with regularly at the ValBrook Diner in Valley Stream.

My high school was Brooklyn Prep, near where Ebbets Field used to be and

H

within walking distance of St. John’s Place, where my father grew up, and where my grandparents were still living during those years. I spent a lot of time hanging out with Tom Dewey, who was in my high school class and lived across the street from my grandparents. Dewey and his neighborhood group all shared his trait of never having a good word to say to or about anyone.

Tom, who would eventually move to Valley Stream, had a successful career as a teacher and track coach, and was actually elected to Fordham’s Hall of Fame, without ever breaking his vow of surliness.

Last week, Tom and I, along with his cousin Allen Ryan and Charlie Norton, decided to spend a day in the old neighborhood. (Ryan, now in Hicksville, had lived in the same apartment house as Dewey; Norton a few blocks away.) Ryan and Norton had distinguished careers with the NYPD, and Ryan was on the crime scene unit the night mob boss Paul Castellano was rubbed out.

Joining us on this visit to the past was Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau detective, who was on my secu-

V

rity detail when I was in Congress, and for some reason found it interesting to listen to the endless banter and mindless conversations she would hear whenever our group got together.

Among our stops was Tom’s a famed luncheonette on Washington Avenue that has been around for almost 90 years and, as Zimmerman pointed out, still typifies neighborhood cuisine and personality. Then there was a walk up and down both sides of St. John’s Place, as we looked at the classically structured apartment houses still standing strong more than 100 years after their construction. This neighborhood and block went through several decades of rough times, but beginning in the 1990s had come back stronger than ever. (Listening to Dewey and Ryan reminisce, so too were their memories of St. John’s Place coming back.)

Then we went over to the local public school where we had played stickball, and then drove to Carroll Street to see what was once Brooklyn Prep and is now Medgar Evers College. Dewey and I pointed to the third floor window from which we could see Ebbets Field

isiting, among other childhood haunts, the school where we played stickball.

before that historic structure was torn down after our beloved Dodgers abandoned Brooklyn for the vacuous environs of Los Angeles.

We finished our memory tour at Farrell’s Bar in nearby Park Slope/Windsor Terrace, where we had a few beers (but not Zimmerman, who was driving) and enjoyed the company of the midafternoon customers. Farrell’s is a famed neighborhood gathering place being featured in a soon-to-be-released film documentary. It hasn’t changed even the slightest over the years.

This trip back to Brooklyn, and being with Tom, Allen and Charlie, was more than just nostalgic. It was a reminder of the days of neighborhood beliefs, of learning that life isn’t fair, that the world doesn’t owe anyone a living and that not everyone will get a trophy. What matters is not hugging one another or looking for praise or compliments, but being loyal and standing by friends no matter what — and being a proud patriot, loving America, respecting the police and military.

It was a great day. Thanks for the memories.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Two architectural highlights of the village

i, all, and welcome back to the past. A big thanks to some of our very hard-working volunteer trustees! They have spent a significant amount of time doing comprehensive research on different events, people and properties from the past that have helped to shape our village. These stories are posted on our website and social media platforms.

As we dive into the history of the village, we will examine some of these items in more detail, part of the “Then and Now” series.

Unfortunately, JiM due to space constraints here, we BEllinG can’t display the accompanying photos for the stories. Please visit our website, rvchs.org, to see the photos for these and more stories from the village’s past.

Here I wanted to focus on two important properties, the Tudor Apartments and the commercial building at 50 N. Park Ave. The Tudor Apartments were built on the site of the Rockville Centre Institute, a college prep school that was

founded in the 1870s. After extensive construction, the apartments were completed in 1929. Originally known as “the Wedge” because of the building’s triangle architecture, it claimed to be the most luxurious apartment house on Long Island when it was built, touting “electric refrigeration, elevators and instantaneous hot water.”

Many notable residents were purported to live there, such as airplane pilot Capt. Frank Hawks.

Hawks flew a glider from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and beat Charles Lindbergh’s speed record for a coast-to-coast flight. Interestingly, that flight took off from the Valley Stream airport. (Who knew there was an airport in Valley Stream?) During World War II, the Rockville Centre Civil Defense Unit was housed in the basement of the Tudor, and used its roof to search for enemy planes and submarines.

50 N. Park Ave. — the office building on the corner of Sunrise Highway and North Park — was sold recently by the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Following the sale, construction began to renovate the building into modern office space.

But before it was owned and sold by the

O

church, it led an interesting life as the First National Bank of Rockville Centre.

The bank was originally established in 1907 on Village Avenue, between Observer Street (later Sunrise Highway) and the railroad. It launched as a competitor to the Bank of Rockville Centre (founded in 1890), at the corner of Village Avenue and Merrick Road.

First National enjoyed much success, and by the late 1920s began construction on its new headquarters at Park and Sunrise.

The new building opened in June 1929, just four months before the stock market crashed.

The 68-foot-tall “skyscraper” was built using the newest methods of fireproof construction — a steel frame and limestone façade — and had a detailed interior of marble, iron gates, automatic elevators, 25-foot-high ornamental ceilings and travertine floors. Unfortunately, timing wasn’t great for this expensive investment, and it became a drain on the bank’s finances at the outset of the Great Depression. The bank experienced significant challenges finding tenants to lease the upper floors.

As the economy crashed, the bank

ne was nicknamed ‘the Wedge’ and the other was a 68-foot-tall ‘skyscraper.’

could no longer finance the expenses on the building. In the early 1930s, First National became one of the nation’s first banks to succumb to the Depression and close its doors. All of its assets were liquidated, and its deposits were assumed by the Bank of Rockville Centre, later Chase. Thankfully, the new developer seems to have preserved the exterior of the building while ushering in a new era of commercial use for this “skyscraper.”

There are so many more interesting stories on our website and social media.

As we continue to work to build awareness of the Historical Society of Rockville Centre and the Phillips House Museum, we want to tell you about two of our upcoming events. On Saturday, May 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., we will host a fundraising cocktail party at the Phillips House, at 28 Hempstead Ave. Please join us for a Night at the Museum. The following day, from noon to 4 p.m., we will host our annual Appraisal Day at the museum.

Visit our website, or Instagram, @ rvchistoricalsociety, for more details about these events, and please join us at them. Until next time . . .

Jim Belling is a member of the board of trustees of the Phillips House Museum and the Rockville Centre Historical Society.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

M

A memory-filled trip back in time

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HeraLd editoriaL

Rockville centRe

April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Your voice counts in school budget decisions

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uesday, May 21 is an important day — not just for our local school districts, which are busy putting together their budgets for the upcoming academic year, but for the future of our communities as well.

That’s the day when we head to voting booths and cast ballots not only to express our opinions on how our districts are spending money, but also on the school board trustees who will manage it.

It’s a valuable opportunity to have your voice heard, because our local schools are just that — local and ours.

Unlike any other government spending plans, school budgets aren’t final until the people tasked to fund them decide they’re final with their votes.

Some may think voting isn’t necessary anymore because the property tax cap limits increases, and no local district wants to exceed its cap. But our voices are always necessary, because the budget isn’t just about how much money is raised for our schools, but how that money is spent. What programs will remain, what will go, and what new ones might begin — all of those decisions are in the hands of every one of us.

The May 21 vote isn’t just about spending, either. There are contested

school board races in many districts.

The people who win will make decisions that affect the entire community. The people who are elected will be the ones who keep the “local” in local decisionmaking.

But there’s one vital caveat: understanding what you’re voting on when you cast your ballot.

If you’re concerned about how much money your district plans to spend, find out what’s in the budget before you vote. you can typically find that information on the district’s website, or through the reporting here in the Herald.

However you vote, understand that your decision has an impact. We, as a collective society, should have a say in which direction our society takes, and that largely begins in schools.

In Rockville Centre, for example, annual school taxes are expected to jump $260 — a little over $20 per month.

But those funds will be used to improve the district’s facilities, enhance cybersecurity, and create new classes in coding and robotics. The spending plan also avoids layoffs, introduces new sports teams, and appoints a new security director.

In Glen Cove, the district’s budget is focused on safety, intended to help parents send their children to school with-

out worry. At the middle school, the public address system will be repaired for $1 million, as will the fire systems and clocks. And the spending plan will allow the district to hire more teachers, so students at the middle school can take more arts and language programs.

If a majority of voters reject a budget, the district must either hold a second vote — offering the same spending plan or a revised one — or adopt what is called a “contingency budget.” It’s also described as an “austerity budget,” and the tax levy issued with this spending plan can’t be larger than the previous year’s levy. The portion of the budget that is devoted to administrative costs cannot increase from the lower of either the previous year’s budget or the justdefeated budget. On top of that, any non-contingent expenditures must be removed from a contingency budget.

Whether you vote “yes” or “no” on school spending plans, it’s important to understand the implications. As the voting day nears, make sure you know where to go to cast your ballot. Contact your school district or visit its website.

School district elections and the budget referenda are extraordinarily important. It’s your money. Take your responsibility seriously, and be an informed voter.

Letters There D’Esposito goes again To the Editor: Re U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito’s op-ed, “Migrants get more government support than veterans,” last week: His party is in the majority, and he is a valuable and loyal member of his caucus. Unable to deliver a meaningful benefit to the voters of his district — our promised deduction for state and local taxes — D’Esposito decides to attack the Democrats for their migrant policies.

The Senate passed a bipartisan immigration bill, but the Republicans wouldn’t even bring it to the floor in the House. They spent their time impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and what happened when that got to the Senate? We have serious problems with our current immigration system. We expect our elected representatives to work together to find an equitable solution, not to write misleading and incendiary articles to divert attention from their inability to pass any meaningful legislation that will actually benefit the voters in their districts.

In D’Esposito’s analysis, he described the assistance available to immigrants as greater than the assistance given to our disabled veterans. The problem isn’t that we’re giving immigrants too much; the problem is that we’re giving veterans too little. D’Esposito should stop trying to divert attention from his inability to pass legislation that will benefit the voters in his district and actually do something — anything.

DEnnIS BRADy Rockville Centre

Happy 190th anniversary, Long Island Rail Road To the Editor: Let’s all wish the Long Island Rail Road a happy 190th anniversary. On

April 24, 1834, the railroad was officially chartered by the state of new york.

In 1900, the Pennsylvania Railroad bought a controlling interest, as part of its plan for direct access to Manhattan, which began on Sept. 8, 1910. The Pennsylvania Railroad subsidized the LIRR into the late 1940s. This provided the finances for expansion and upgrades to

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opinions

s we mark another Medicaid Awareness Month this April, we must reflect on the profound impact this program has had on the lives of millions of Americans. Signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, Medicaid has transformed access to health care for lowincome, disabled and elderly Americans.

Building on this progress, New York has long been a national leader in joseph offering compresackman hensive health coverage to its residents, including roughly 7.5 million — more than a third of the state’s total population — in the Medicaid program. On Long Island alone, more than 765,000 people are enrolled.

While Medicaid provides financial security and access to health care to

more New Yorkers than ever before, Republicans in Congress, including Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, are threatening Medicaid by pushing for devastating cuts to key federal programs.

Earlier in his tenure, D’Esposito claimed to support fully funding critical lifeline programs like Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. He has gone back on this promise time and time again, however, including supporting a provision that would slash nearly all government funding by 30 percent.

Long Island families are already grappling with financial hardships, including difficulties affording mortgages, utilities and groceries. Cutting funding to critical safety-net programs like Medicaid would directly harm hardworking families who are just trying to find health care for their loved ones and make ends meet.

The consequences of cutting Medicaid funding would be disastrous, espe-

t

he program decreases the uninsured rate and reduces the cost of uncovered care.

Letters service and infrastructure.

At the end of World War II, the LIRR began to decline, and there was a corresponding loss of revenue. The Pennsylvania Railroad began to reduce its financial support as well. The LIRR went into receivership in 1949, but in recognition of the role it played in the economy of Long Island and New York City, the state began providing financial assistance in the 1950s.

The “Line of the Dashing Dan” was officially chartered as the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation Authority on April 24, 1965, by the state. Up to that point, the LIRR had derived almost 100 percent of its funding for both capital and operating expenses from fares. The MCTA was created to purchase and operate the bankrupt LIRR. In 1966, the state bought the railroad’s controlling stock from the Pennsylvania Rail Road and put it under the MCTA. The MCTA changed its name to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in 1968, when it took over operations of the New York City Transit Authority.

With MTA subsidies, the LIRR modernized further and grew into the busiest commuter railroad in the United States. Over the past 50 years, several billion dollars in combined county, city, state and federal taxpayer-generated dollars have subsidized its capital and operating costs.

Riders must remember that fare hikes are required periodically if the MTA is to provide the services millions of New Yorkers use daily. They are inevitable due to inflation, along with increasing costs of labor, power, fuel, supplies, materials, routine safety, state

cially for children. The program covers more than 38 million children, and pays for 41 percent of all births nationwide.

Additionally, 60 percent of children with disabilities receive their coverage from Medicaid.

The program also plays an important role in addressing the opioid epidemic, one of the most urgent public health crises facing Long Island. Thousands of Island residents have died of overdoses since the crisis began, and drug deaths hit a record 109,689 nationwide in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Long Islanders battling substance abuse disorders rely on Medicaid coverage for treatment and behavioral health services.

While President Biden and Democrats in Congress have championed reducing health care costs and improving access to care for the American people, Republicans like D’Esposito are actively working to roll back that prog-

of good repair, replacement of worn-out rolling stock, upgrades to stations, yards and shops, along with system expansion projects necessary to run any transit system.

In the end, quality and frequency of service depend on secure revenue streams. We all have to contribute — be it at the fare box or tax revenue redistributed back to the MTA. There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch — or in this case, a free ride.

ress.

Fully funding Medicaid is simply common sense: It has drastically decreased the uninsured rate, improved health outcomes and reduced the costs of uncompensated care. Having health insurance through Medicaid helps Americans stay healthy, go to work, care for their families and pay their bills.

The program helps our communities, hospitals, schools and economy thrive.

But D’Esposito’s voting record shows that time and again, he is in line with MAGA extremists who are pushing for Medicaid cuts, going against the best interests and well-being of our Long Island communities.

Rep. D’Esposito, I urge you to listen to your constituents, who are calling on you to fully fund these vital programs.

In the wealthiest nation on earth, no one should have to go into debt to cover the cost of their basic medical needs. If your MAGA Republican colleagues get their way, the most vulnerable New Yorkers will be left behind.

Joseph Sackman is the chief of staff of the Long Island Progressive Coalition.

Framework by Tim Baker

LARRY PENNER Great Neck Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer and a former director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

Pay attention at the wheel, and keep highway workers safe To the Editor: Last week was National Work Zone Awareness Week. Each year at the start of the highway construction season, the state Department of Transportation participates in this national campaign to remind motorists about the importance of driving safely and responsibly in and around work zones.

At NYSDOT, safety is our top priority.

We take every step possible to protect our highway workers by deploying the latest technology in crash attenuators, flashing yellow lights, signs, cones, bar-

Along the quiet side of Guy Lombardo Avenue — Freeport

rels, reflective gear, etc.

The biggest risk to our highway workers is the motorist. By paying attention to your driving, you are saving a life! Please do your part to help our highway workers return home safely to their families each night. Put down your cellphone, move over for flashing lights, and slow down. There is someone’s life behind those work zone traffic control

devices.

And for those who choose to ignore the rules of the road, be forewarned: NYSDOT is working with the police on targeted enforcement and deploying automated speed-enforcement cameras in our work zones.

RICH CAUSIN Long Island regional director, NYSDOT Hauppauge

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — April 25, 2024

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D’Esposito must support fully funding Medicaid

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April 25, 2024 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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