Natasha Hassell Fishman, of TashaToons Caricatures, looked to be almost halfway through a piece for Nicholas and Jasmine Meola of Long Beach at the city’s weekly market in Kennedy Plaza. Story, more photos, Page 10.
By MAdiSoN GUSlEr mgusler@liherald.com
Christopher Troy was greeted with cheers and applause as he ended his final tour of duty with the Long Beach Fire Department on July 30. Friends, family and colleagues gathered to celebrate Troy’s retirement after 25 years as a career firefighter.
“I’m thrilled that I was able to serve the community,” Troy, 56, said. “There were good and bad days, but I was happy when I went to work. I’m grateful things worked out and they were willing to have me.”
After his final walkout, Troy was celebrated with a toast at Bright Eye Beer Co. downtown.
By EESHA BUTT Correspondent
The Long Beach City Council signed an ordinance to finance a bond of up to $25.9 million for a number of capital projects.
The ordinance, discussed at the council’s Aug. 5 meeting, will allocate funds for necessities in city departments, such as new vehicles for lifeguards and the Police Department.
T“There is money in the budget to purchase three police vehicles,” Police Commissioner Richard DePalma said. “They rarely get a rest going from one shift to the next, so we do go through cars quicker than other departments.”
fire pickup truck, that’s 2006.” Borawski said he hoped the bond would cover two new trucks for the lifeguards next year. The staff has a list of priorities that would cost an estimated $150,000, as well as equipment for beach maintenance, like boom trucks and vans, costing $210,000.
hat will be a revenue generator. That’s what we
need.
BrENdAN FiNN City councilman
Three new police vehicles will cost $240,000.
Troy and his wife, Kerry Ann, met at Mount Saint Mary College. After he graduated, Troy moved from his native Delaware to Kerry Ann’s hometown of Long Beach. Initially he worked in Manhattan while she worked for the City of Long Beach.
Troy became a firefighter in 1996, joining Long Beach’s volunteer department. “Becoming a firefighter wasn’t always my dream,” he said. “But I met a lot of people who were volunteer firefighters on Long Island, and hearing them talk made it sound like something realistic for me.”
In 2000, he passed the city’s firefighter exam and became a member of the Long Beach Profes-
Richard Borawski, chief of the Long Beach lifeguards, also expressed his support for the bill. “Saltwater, air, sand and wind is causing havoc to our trucks — they aged out,” Borawski said. “Our best vehicle right now is a repurposed
Although the city is authorized to spend up to $25.9 million, officials said they aim to use only $17.3 million by accessing more than $6 million in existing city funds. Long Beach also anticipates receiving over $3 million in federal and state.
Initial payments on the bond will be due in 2027, increasing the city’s debt, which could have tax implications, an issue that was raised at the meeting.
“Obviously, my concern is any tax raise,” Councilman Brendan Finn said.
Ultimately, however, council members said they believed the positives of issuing the bond outweighed the negatives. “I understand what you’re saying
Continued on page 12
sional Firefighters Association.
“I met Chris as a volunteer,” ex-chief Richard Corbett recalled. “He was young, eager, a go-getter. When he got hired onto the uniform force, we were all very proud of him. We knew he was going places.”
After becoming a career firefighter, Troy spent as much time as he could taking care of his children, Ryan, Connor, and Katie.
“This job is 24/7 — someone needs to be working all the time,” Troy said. “Even though I was around more, I didn’t always get to be around when I wanted to be. I missed holidays, games, weekends.
“They all gave up a lot for this job,” he added of his family. “I missed a lot, but I was happy to have that time with them.”
Troy recognized the responsibility and the importance of his role. “Being a firefighter, you deal with people on their worst days,” he said. “It’s a lot of trying to understand people, to connect with them and work together towards a solution.”
In late 2005, he became a lieutenant, before returning to the position of firefighter in 2015 due to the department’s budget constraints. His lieutenant’s title was later restored, and in 2022 he was promoted to captain.
“As captain, I’m most proud of my work to try and tie things together a bit more,” Troy said.
The department operates with four
24-hour rotating shifts, with groups assigned to each day. “Sometimes we would have four different ways of doing things, so I worked with all the officers to figure out the best way of doing things consistently,” he said.
“Chris was always very level-headed, not excitable, had a commanding presence and a calming voice of reason,”
Corbett said. “He stood true to his craft, worked very hard, always wanted to make the department better.”
“It was a great decision to make him captain of the uniformed force because of his professionalism, demeanor and
passion for the job,” Corbett added.
Each year the LBFD takes part in the nationwide “Fill the Boot” campaign, to raise money for and awareness of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. For two weekends each summer, members of the department collect donations on the corner of Long Beach Boulevard and Park Avenue to support muscular dystrophy research.
The Long Beach department has excelled in this fundraiser, and received the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Golden Boot award in 2013 after raising over $30,000. It was a proud moment for
the entire department, but for Troy the cause has deeper meaning. His son Connor suffered from the degenerative neuromuscular disease, and died in 2013, at age 12.
“It’s been an absolute thrill that other people have taken that cause on,” Troy said. “A lot of people that are now in the department never knew Connor, but they understand how important it still is.”
The funds raised support advancements in muscular dystrophy care as well as education, advocacy, and community programs such as the MDA Summer Camp, a free summer camp for kids and young adults with the disease.
“To see those kids and what they get out of the camp,” Troy said, “it makes you want to be out there the next weekend trying to collect more, just to help them out.”
He reflected on what he has learned in his years in the fire department. “Each time you go out on a call, just having the ability to make a difference for someone, that’s important,” he said. “What an honor that is, to be able to do that.”
Now that he’s retired, Troy looks forward to spending more time with his family. Looking back on his career as a volunteer and a career firefighter, he underscored the importance of both roles. “Long Beach having a combination department — it shouldn’t be the exception,” he said. “It should be the model for how Long Island departments operate.”
By EESHA BUTT Correspondent
It was an afternoon filled with live entertainment, delicious food and a chance to connect with Long Beach crime-fighters.
The City of Long Beach Police Department held its 15th annual National Night Out by Kennedy Plaza on Aug. 5, nationwide event that Long Beach has participated in for over a decade. Its mission is to foster stronger relationships between the police and residents of the city.
We must get to know the community and know the public and police.
SABrinA DArBy event attendee
“The first Tuesday of August police departments throughout the country get together with the community,” Richard DePalma, commissioner of Long Beach said. “Too often what happens is when people call the police, it’s an emergency. If it’s usually a bad event we call the police. So events like this get the police and community involved in a good event.”
The event was filled with not just patrol cars but a multitude of other forms of resources for residents. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Long Beach Public Library and fellow first responders from the Long Beach Fire Department were some of the many who were in attendance to provide aid, guidance and connection to all ages.
“We don’t have a community without connection,” Ronnie Myles, workforce development coordinator for Nassau County said. “You must have a connection to have a community and this bridges that gap by offering entities that have resources in order to further strengthen our community.”.
Everything at the event, from free food to musical entertainment, was provided by the sponsors such as the city, the North Park Crisis Team, Studio Noir and more.
Sabrina Darby, an attendee said, “if it’s free, it’s for me,”
Studio Noir, a music school based in Long Beach, headed by Benjamin Metzger, provided the entertainment. Metzger and his students — a variety of ages — played classic hits for the diverse crowd. Children lined up for cotton candy as adults cheered on the musicians on stage.
The event offers a dual benefit for residents and law enforcement.
“What makes National Night Out so special is you not only get to see the human side of police officers, but police officers really get to see the people that they are in charge of protecting,” said Nassau County Legislator Patrick Mullaney, a Long Beach resident who represents the city and a few
other surrounding communities.
The community came together for National Night Out. They collaborated with one another in order to better their beloved city.
“We must get to know the community and know the public and police,” Darby said. “Once in your life, you’re going to have an emergency. You need these people.”
Enter from Monday, July 28, 2025 through Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY Correspondent
Arts and crafts, bounce houses, face painting, food trucks, giant games, inflatable slides are all part of the second annual Long Beach Public Library Fun Fair at Kennedy Plaza.
Celebrating the conclusion of this year’s summer reading program, children and adults can enjoy a plethora of activities including photo ops, as well as and other vendors at the Aug. 17 event.
“Whether you spent the summer reading with us or just love a great time in the library officials noted in a statement. “Come celebrate the joy of reading, community, and summer Jakea Williamson, the library’s assistant director, described the fair as “fun and informative.”
“I would hope our current patrons appreciate it and have fun, and encourage new patrons to come out.” she said. “[New patrons can] get a library card, visit our programs, [and] use our space.”
In second marriage planning, a co-trustee is sometimes recommended on the death of the first spouse. While both spouses are living and competent they run their trust or trusts together. But when one spouse dies, what prevents the other spouse from diverting all of the assets to their own children? Nothing at all, if they alone are in charge. While most people are honorable, and many are certain their spouse would never do such a thing, strange things often happen later in life. A spouse may become forgetful, delusional or senile or may be influenced by other parties. Not only that, but the children of the deceased spouse tend to feel very insecure when they find out their stepparent is in charge of all of the couple’s assets.
If you choose one of the deceased spouse’s children to act as co-trustee with the surviving spouse there is a conflict that exists whereby the stepchild may be reluctant to spend assets for the surviving spouse, because whatever is spent on that spouse comes out of the child’s inheritance. Then what if stepparent gets remarried? How will the stepchild trustee react to that event? What if it
turns out the stepchild liked the stepparent when his parent was living, but not so much afterwards?
Here is where the lawyer as co-trustee may provide an ideal solution. When one parent dies, the lawyer steps in as co-trustee with the surviving spouse. The lawyer helps the stepparent to invest for their own benefit as well as making sure the principal grows to offset inflation, for the benefit of the deceased spouse’s heirs. The stepparent in this case takes care of all their business privately with their lawyer. The trusts cannot be raided. These protections may also be extended for IRA and 401(k) money passing to the spouse through the use of the “IRA Contract”. Surviving spouse agrees ahead of time that they will make an irrevocable designation of the deceased spouse’s children as beneficiaries when the IRA is left to the surviving spouse, and further agrees that any withdrawals in excess of the required minimum distribution (RMD) may only be made on consent of the lawyer.
Second marriage planning offers numerous traps for the unwary.
Non Stop to Cairo, a music group known for its ska, hip hop and funk crossovers are expected to perform at 2 p.m., and DJ Mahtzie will be playing music throughout the event.
The “Tomato Contest,” a popular feature from last year’s fair, will also be making its return. Coined this year as “Tomatomania,” Interested library patrons received baby tomato plants, and were encouraged to plant them in the spring — and will now have the opportunity to literally show off the fruits of their labor.
Competitors will be judged on four different categories — biggest, smallest, prettiest, and ugliest tomatoes respectively. Those interested in participating may drop off their entries at the Garden Club table by 1 p.m. Winners will be announced an hour later.
The library’s summer reading pro-
gram is an initiative designed to encourage children and adults alike to read and engage with the library during the summer months. Participants can submit completed summer reading postcards to the library’s reference desk to be eligible to win a prize. Winners will be drawn at the Fun Fair — attendance isn’t required.
The library’s fair is a collaboration with the City of Long Beach.
“We are proud to partner with the Long Beach Public Library on their annual Fun Fair in Kennedy Plaza.” Michael Reinhart, a city council member, said in a statement. “A deep sense of community is what makes our city so special. This event is yet another fantastic way to celebrate that spirit, right here in the center of our city.”
Kennedy Plaza is at 1 W Chester St, Long Beach, just north of Park Avenue.
For more information on the Fun Fair, go to LongBeachLibrary.org.
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is less than a month away.
On Aug. 18, all 53 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 5 with a handful of Conference IV games leading up to the first full slate the following week.
Aside from then eight-time defending Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, which saw it dominate the competition on the way to another title, the biggest news last offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot. That’ll continue in 2025 and possibly beyond, first-year Section VIII football coordinator Joe Martillotti said, as the county builds its varsity officials staff.
“We’re definitely in better shape with officiating crews as we were last year,” Martillotti said. “Some are doubling up with 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. games on Saturday. We don’t have enough officials to play every game at 2 p.m. on Saturday, but there’s also more and more teams playing Friday night which helps.”
Some teams with multiple 11 a.m. starts this season include Clarke (four), Carey (three), Sewanhaka (three), South Side (three), Uniondale (three), Elmont (two), Valley Stream South (two) and Wantagh (two.)
Massapequa (Conference I), Carey (II), Garden City (III) and Wantagh (IV) won county titles last season, but the landscape has changed again with Rutgers Cup winner Garden City moving back to Conference II, Wantagh returning to Conference III where Carey also resides now.
Carey and Wantagh are seeded No. 1 and 2, respectively, but won’t meet until Week 7 (Oct. 25) at the home of the Seahawks. Carey, which defeated Half Hollow Hills East for the Long Island Class II crown to cap an undefeated campaign, opens at home Sept. 13 against Valley Stream South.
Massapequa, which won the Rutgers Cup in 2023 and seeks a third straight county title, is ranked second behind Farmingdale this season. The Chiefs won an overtime thriller over the Dalers in the Conference I championship game last November. The teams will meet again in Week 6 at Farmingdale. Massapequa opens at home versus Freeport Sept. 13; the Dalers host Syosset the previous evening.
Third-ranked Long Beach is tasked with opening the season against Garden City in the Trojans’ return to Conference II. Garden City has won a remarkable 54 consecutive games.
Sept. 12 Freeport at Massapequa
Sept. 13 Garden City at Long Beach
Sept. 19 Farmingdale at Oceanside
Sept. 27 Carey at South Side
Oct. 4 Plainedge at Lynbrook
Oct. 11 Mepham at Garden City
Oct. 18 Massapequa at Farmingdale
Oct. 25 Wantagh at Carey
Oct. 25 Freeport at Oceanside
Oct. 31 Seaford at Plainedge
Conference IV runner-up Plainedge is ranked at the top this season and kicks off on the road at North Shore Sept. 6.
Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, making Aug. 29 the first potential date. Teams can conduct joint practices as soon as Aug. 23 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear.
Nine teams switch conferences
Along with Garden City, Carey and Wantagh, six additional teams switched conferences for 2025 based on enrollment figures. East Meadow and Valley Stream Central slid from Conference I to II, Sewanhaka from II to III, BellmoreJFK from III to II, Valley Stream South from IV to III, and Lynbrook from III to IV. East Meadow and Kennedy meet Week 1 in Bellmore. Valley Stream Central opens at home against MacArthur, Sewanhaka hosts Floral Park, and Lynbrook hits the road to face Malverne.
Few coaching changes
Last season saw new head coaches debut at Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford and at the midway mark, Lawrence. Most of those squads enjoyed success and were part of the Nassau County playoffs.
This year there’s new sideline bosses at North Shore and Manhasset. Dan Agovino left a legacy at North Shore with 23 years at the helm and led the Vikings to a pair of county championships and their first-ever L.I. title in recent seasons. Longtime assistant Bill Madigan takes over. At Manhasset, Mike Lewis takes over for legendary Jay Iaquinta.
Chase Samelson is set to be Lynbrook’s starting quarterback this fall.
Nick Carentz and Oceanside will take on Farmingdale Sept. 19. Eric Dunetz/Herald photos
110 Park Ave Nails
157 Nail Spa
ABC123 Golf
Agrigento Bakery
Allegria Aura
Austin Park
Bad Boy Burrito
Baldoria
Beach Burger
Beach Comfort
Beginnings
Billy's
Blacksmith Bread
Bobs Natural Food
Brixx & Barley
Chop Shop
Core 95
Dave & Busters
Demi's
Diner by the Sea
Drew Moss
East End Pizza
Elegante Salon
Felicia
Ginos
Golden Era
Island Park Propane
Jack's Pizza
J.A. Heneghans
J.J. Coopers
Jordan Lobster
Key Food East
King Kullen
LB Ice Arena
LB Parks & Recreation
LB Social
Lido Kosher
Long Beach Basketball Camp
Maple Family Centers
Michelle O'Neill Foundation
Mo'Nelisa
Mooburger
Nolan’s
Outback Steakhouse
Peknic, Peknic & Schaefer, LLC
Polar Bear Basket
Seasons Asian Pan/Himawari
Shakes & Shuckers
Sherry Blossom
Shogun
Super Pollo
Swingbellys
Taste of Italy
The Shack at One Pacific
The Station for Hair
Treasure Lane
Uncle Leo's
Unsound Surf Shop
Wax Addicts Beauty Bar
Youth Fitness League
Anne Conway
Bernee Parker
Gina Corrigan
Jannine Sandmeier
Leah Tozer
Liz Wisey
Marlene Hardy
Maryann Whiteman
Patty Baron
Tami Ackerman
The Blooms
The Meyers
Vicki Lyons
By JORDAN VALLONE, RENEE DeLORENZO & AINSLEY MARTINEZ of Herald Community Newspapers
First in a series about housing on Long Island.
On Long Island, where the cost of living continues to climb, the term “affordable housing” is often misunderstood — or dangerously oversimplified.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, housing is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross income. But even in Nassau and Suffolk counties, where the median household income hovers around $125,000, many families find themselves priced out of both the rental and homeownership markets.
This series — “Priced Out: the Fight for Affordable Housing” — begins by laying the groundwork: breaking down terms like “affordable” and “low-income” housing, and clarifying how programs like Section 8 fit in. It also examines who is impacted — not only low-income residents, but also middle-class workers, retirees on fixed incomes, and young adults trying to remain in the communities where they grew up.
Through interviews with housing experts and advocates, and an analysis of Long Island housing data, this first installment provides context to help readers understand the scale and complexity of the crisis — and sets the stage for further installments in the weeks ahead.
Understanding affordable housing, and how Long Island measures up
According to HUD, “affordable housing” means housing that is affordable for people with low to moderate incomes. The definition of “low income” is based on Area Median Income, or AMI, which varies by region and household size.
Affordable housing should cost no more than 30 percent of a household’s monthly income — whether that’s rent and utilities for renters, or mortgage and housing expenses for homeowners. Households spending more than that are considered “cost burdened,” with many forced to sacrifice other essentials like food, transportation and health care.
A 2024 report by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli found that nearly 3 million New York households spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. One in five households experiences a “severe cost burden,” devoting more than half of their income to housing.
On Long Island, 36 percent of households fall into the cost-burdened category.
Programs like Section 8 — part of the public housing system administered by HUD — provide housing assistance for low-income residents. Eligibility varies by location, as does the availability of units.
Long Island is grappling with an affordable-housing crisis. The high cost of homes and high rent
make it nearly impossible for many people to find housing — an issue that has many causes.
Freeport is an affordable-housing community, but experts contend that there is a need for
Racism, said that the housing crisis disproportionately impacts minority communities due to extensive segregation in Long Island’s housing market. She added that there is often an implicit bias among residents about who affordable housing is designed to serve.
“It isn’t just about welfare,” Taylor said.
On Long Island, some village or town-level housing authorities administer public housing and Section 8 programs, though inventory is usually small or seniorfocused, according to information from the Long Island Center for Independent Living.
What do experts have to say?
Hunter Gross, vice president of the Huntington Township Housing Coalition — which advocates for the Long Island Housing Coalition — said that Long Island’s housing crisis touches a wide range of residents.
“The affordable housing crisis on Long Island is affecting you unless you’re rich,” Gross said simply. “It’s affecting most people, regardless of ethnicity, skin color and profession.”
April Francis Taylor, acting president of ERASE
Many families — particularly in communities of color — have not had the economic opportunity to accumulate generational wealth, Taylor explained. That wealth is often passed down in the form of cash, investments or property.
Those who have never owned homes are still playing catch-up, she said. And the harder it is for them to purchase homes, the harder it becomes to improve their economic conditions. This reinforces the need for fair housing in achieving racial equity, a key mission of ERASE Racism.
“There’s generational things, there’s racial things — the economic piece of those is huge,” Taylor said.
One of the policies that helps address the issue, Gross explained, is inclusionary zoning, which sets aside a portion of apartment units at below market rates.
Currently, Long Island has income-restricted rental housing funded by low-income tax credits, as well as workforce housing, Section 8 housing and senior affordable housing developments. But, Gross said, there is not nearly enough of it.
Expanding the types of affordable housing on Long Island — while increasing access to what already exists — is essential to meeting the needs of all demographics, he said. That includes building more accessory dwelling units, higher-density housing, and senior housing options, so older residents can downsize and make room for younger families in the market.
“It’s a domino effect,” Gross said.
Without meaningful efforts to make Long Island
more affordable, young professionals looking to start families are leaving, he added. The median home price continues to climb, making ownership less attainable. “There’s a mass exodus of young professionals because they can’t afford a home here,” Gross said. “We’re losing so many folks.”
When young people are driven out of communities, the National Low Income Housing Coalition states, it weakens local economies by shrinking the workforce and straining public services.
Expanding affordable housing, Gross said, would help lower housing prices across the board.
A 2024 study by Urban Wire, a blog by the Urban Institute, found that new housing construction in areas with less restrictive zoning laws resulted in lower prices — evidence of which was observed in Houston, Texas.
But that’s only part of the picture. On Long Island, Gross said, there are still many barriers to building affordable housing. Zoning laws, land-use policies and a lack of public assistance all need to be addressed comprehensively.
“The only way we can actually make a difference in this crisis is by changing our policy,” Gross said. “We can work with our town boards, but they have to be willing to accept the reality of the crisis that we’re in and agree we really need to start making changes.”
A Herald analysis of 1,052 homes currently listed on Redfin, a real estate brokerage website, across 27 municipalities in Nassau and Suffolk counties and surrounding areas reveals a regional housing market under pressure, with high prices and a shrinking pool of affordable homes.
Across all listings, the median home price was $809,500, roughly 9.5 times the median income, according to U.S. Census data. The homes averaged 2,161 square feet. Only 0.76 percent of the listings — just eight homes — were under $255,000, and considered affordable under a standard affordability metric, with prices no more than three times the median household income of $85,000.
Oyster Bay and Glen Head had the highest average list prices, more than $3.4 million, with their average home sizes nearing 5,000 square feet. Homes in the top 5 percent of the market cost more than $2.57 million, with several listings above $10 million.
The most expensive home per square foot was a 320-square-foot bungalow in Freeport listed at an eye-popping $2,343 per square foot, more than four times the regional average.
Other towns with high price-persquare-foot values included Sea Cliff and Oceanside, all indicating strong demand for smaller, high-end properties in desirable waterfront or coastal-adjacent locations.
A handful of communities — East Rockaway, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre and Valley Stream— had
the chart above shows the median list prices of homes in 28 areas of Long island, based
Herald file photo
Zoning laws in local municipalities impact housing on Long island. throughout her term as governor, Kathy Hochul has tried to adjust laws to bolster housing here. She was met with criticism from area officials who campaigned to “Save our Suburbs.”
the only listings flagged as potentially affordable. Each had one or two homes priced below $255,000.
Still, these were outliers. In most towns, even entry-level listings exceeded $600,000. The average price per square foot across the region was $510, but several areas exceeded $600, making them among the most expensive for their size.
The gap between municipalities is stark. The average home in Oyster Bay costs nearly five times as much as the
average home in Freeport.
Despite the variety of housing stock, most homes shared certain characteristics: around four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and measuring between 1,700 and 2,400 square feet.
With prices elevated and affordability metrics strained, first-time buyers and middle-income families face daunting odds in securing homeownership on Long Island without substantial wealth or financing.
■ Affordable housing: Defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as housing that costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross monthly income, including rent or mortgage plus utilities.
■ Cost burdened: A household that spends more than 30 percent of its income on housing. “Severely cost burdened” applies when more than 50 percent of income goes toward housing.
■ Section 8: A federal housing program providing rental assistance to low-income households. It includes:
■ Project-based subsidies tied to specific buildings
■ Housing Choice Vouchers: portable subsidies tenants can use to pay rent
Shoppers flooded Kennedy Plaza in Long Beach on Aug. 9, wandering around a farmers market that offers a little something for everyone.
The Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market brought fresh flavors, handmade goods and community spirit to the heart of the city on Aug. 9. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in front of Long Beach City Hall, residents and visitors browsed stands filled with locally grown produce, fresh-baked breads, artisanal treats and handcrafted items.
The market featured its usual mix of farmers, artisans, bakers and makers from across Long Island, each sharing their products and stories. Shoppers filled their bags with seasonal vegetables, fruit, and specialty foods, while others stopped to chat with vendors about their craft and growing practices.
Organizers credited the support of sponsors for helping the market thrive week after week, ensuring it remains a welcoming space that connects residents with fresh food, local products and one another.
The Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market continues every Saturday and Wednesday through the season. For more information, visit LIGreenMarket.org.
–Jordan Vallone
—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport
Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island’s Business First Program. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space and rebates for upgrading to efficient LED lighting. Now, she’s saving on energy costs and her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.
about increasing the debt,” Finn told his colleagues and the residents who attended, “and of course, that sounds scary when you do that, but on the other side of the coin — and I know all of you guys know it as well as I do — some of those things are absolutely necessary.”
Some residents disagreed, questioning specific plans for the bond, including $2.9 million for work on the boardwalk. The council did not offer any details about that part of the plan.
“Our boardwalk is fine,” resident Eileen Hession said. “We don’t need to put $3 million in it.”
Council members argued that the boardwalk is a fixture in town, and that the money is necessary. “That will be a revenue generator,” Finn said. “That’s what we need.”
“We want to keep the boardwalk safe,” resident Linda Jiles acknowledged. “To me, that’s number one and it’s amazingly safe, but I don’t know what your plan is.”
The Herald reached out to Leah Tozer, president of the Chamber of Commerce, to ask for her opinion of the spending plan. “There is a lack of forward thinking,” Tozer said, “and that’s why people have a problem.”
The meeting ended with the council
nearly $3 million is earmarked for improvements to the boardwalk. those plans were not fully discussed, which caused a stir among residents.
signing off on the spending measure.
“I’m a lifelong resident here,” Jiles said. “I love this town. I want the best in this town. I want it to be beautiful. I want it to be profitable. I want the people who live here to be able to afford to stay here. We’re coming very close to a point where people are going to have to
leave because they just can’t afford it.”
Responding to residents’ concerns, City Manager Daniel Creighton wrote in a statement to the Herald, “This capital plan delivers on what our residents expect: well paved roads, clean drinking water and a focus on public safety. It’s why the plan was unanimously
SponSored content
City Council
on a loan for up to $25.9 million. the money will be spent on road reconstruction and other projects.
approved by the city council in May.”
The purpose of the plan, according to the city, is to improve its infrastructure and facilities, in part because of underinvestment in the past.
For more on the meeting, go to LongBeachNY.gov/CouncilMeetings.
Danielle Bertoli, Project Director
For more than 50 years, the Harriet Eisman Community School in Long Beach has served as a haven for students who struggle in traditional academic settings. Operated by Long Island Reach, the school offers far more than a diploma — it fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, emphasizing emotional wellness, creativity, and community.
“There was a need for something different,” says Executive Director Dr. Joseph Smith. “An alternative to the traditional educational system, which was really unsuccessful in meeting the needs of many young people.”
Small by design, with intimate class
sizes, the school offers a non-institutional environment where students are on a firstname basis with staff and have the freedom to explore electives like art, theater, and environmental studies. Danielle Bertoli, a former creative writing teacher, leads with empathy and personal insight. “I try to lead with a heart-first approach… not just looking at students as academic performers, but as whole human beings,” she says.
Emotional support is woven into daily life through social-emotional learning and two on-site social workers. Students who once avoided school now look forward to being there. “For the first time, they’re feeling like they’re being fully seen and heard,” Bertoli explains.
With more than 2,000 graduates since its founding, the school has helped launch careers in education, healthcare, public service, and beyond. “We may not have a lot of financial resources,” says Smith, “but we have the most valuable ones — people who
believe in the power of connection.”
This year’s graduation, held Aug. 24 at the Long Beach Library, marks another milestone for a program built on heart, soul, and second chances.
For more information on the Harriet Eisman Community School, visit [https:// longislandreach.org/harriet-eismancommunity-school]. For more information on Long Island Reach, visit [https:// harrieteismanschool.com].
To read more and to contact the Harriet Eisman school scan here.
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Outside the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh on Aug. 11, Interim Supervisor John Ferretti raised concerns over a 17-year-old Facebook post attributed to his Democratic opponent, Joseph Scianablo.
According to Ferretti, on Dec. 27, 2008, Scianablo posted, “i just shat myself while watching animal porn.” Ferretti said the comment was offensive and inappropriate, especially from someone seeking to lead a town that runs one of the largest animal shelters on Long Island.
“As somebody who has fought for animal rights as a county legislator for the last eight years introducing legislation to protect animals, it’s deeply disturbing that somebody who would want to run one of the largest animal shelters on Long Island would celebrate animal abuse,” Ferretti said.
Scianablo, standing across the street with supporters and animal rights advocates, said the post was made by his brother and called the controversy a distraction.
“We’re really sick and tired of career politicians spreading lies, disinformation, they’re really scraping the bottom of the barrel right here,” Scianablo said.
In an emailed statement from Scianablo’s team, his brother, Jason, said he wrote the Facebook post as a juvenile joke after Joseph had returned from serving in combat as a U.S. Marine in Iraq.
“In 2008, I made a stupid, juvenile post on my brother’s Facebook as a joke,” Scianablo’s brother said in an emailed statement. “My brother had returned from serving in combat as a US Marine in Iraq. For months, our family lived with the fear that we might lose him.
When he came home, the relief was overwhelming, and I slipped back into being the kid brother who teased him instead of the man who should have been thanking him.”
Jason added that his brother went on to serve four years as an NYPD officer and was seriously injured in the line of duty while protecting victims of domestic violence. Jason said Joseph has risked his life many times for fellow Marines, New Yorkers, and strangers in danger, and that he has earned his roles through service and sacrifice.
A follow-up post made the same day in 2008 stated, “Just took my computer back from my brother Jason.” During the event, Ferretti questioned why the post remained online for 17 years.
Ferretti, of Levittown, was sworn in as interim supervisor after Don Clavin resigned on Aug. 5. He previously represented Levittown, Bethpage, North Massapequa and parts of Farmingdale as a Nassau County Legislator.
Scianablo, of Garden City, is a Marine veteran and former New York City police officer. The Nassau County Democratic Party says he brings leadership, integrity and compassion to the race.
Ferretti is calling for an apology. “It is sick. It is depraved. And Joseph Scianablo needs to come clean with the residents of the town of Hempstead,” he said.
Scianablo disagrees. “He’s making this an issue, wasting taxpayer time and money,” he said. “There’s nothing there, it clearly dictates that.”
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Samosa III, a Labrador-golden retriever mix nearing her second birthday, has become a key member of the Nassau County district attorney’s office.
The easygoing puppy took part in Canine Companions’ National Graduation Ceremony last Friday at the organization’s Northeast Training Center in Medford. The group was one of the country’s first service dog providers, and is celebrating its 50th year in operation. Samosa III will serve as a facility dog, bred and trained specifically to support people testifying in sensitive court cases.
She was one of 56 dogs who graduated from Canine Companions. On stage, her leash was officially handed off from Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw to Amber Kemperman, the assistant district attorney for the D.A.’s office’s Special Victims Bureau.
“We’re very excited to have Samosa in the Nassau D.A.’s office,” Kemperman said. “We’re excited to see her personality come through a little more, with how affectionate and playful she can be.”
As a part of the D.A.’s team, Samosa will be involved in many cases, helping victims of crimes process their feelings while working with law enforcement. “Samosa will be coming to work with me every day,” Kemperman explained. “She will be able to sit in on meetings and interviews with victims of domestic violence and child sexual abuse victims and provide comfort for them as they talk through the details of everything that they’ve gone through.”
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, left, Assistant District Attorney Amber Kemperman and Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw celebrated Samosa III’s graduation last Friday.
great things. Being a part of this organization has just honestly changed my life, and I couldn’t recommend it more.
“Samosa taught me as much as I taught her,” McGraw continued. “I’m just so proud of her, and I couldn’t picture a better match and better fit for her than to work with people who really need her.”
District Attorney Anne Donnelly was a special guest speaker at the graduation. “These dogs will make an enormous difference in so many lives, especially my Special Victims Bureau,” she told the crowd of people and canines. “I am grateful for our partnership with Canine Companions.”
Donnelly praised Samosa as a dog with a gift for relaxation.
“She was paired with our Special Victims Bureau because of how easygoing she is,” she explained. “Those qualities are desperately needed when it comes to helping victims of physical and sexual abuse feel a sense of calm.”
The graduating class was made up of four-legged experts in over 40 areas, able to support people of all ages with special needs or disabilities, helping them live with a greater degree of independence. The dogs are provided to clients at no cost.
Beyond the graduates, the ceremony also celebrated a new chapter for two longtime staff members at Canine Companions’ Medford center. Debra Dougherty is stepping down as executive director, and Ellen Torop, a mentor trainer of 36 years, is retiring.
“It’s kind of surreal to think about the past year of my life with her,” McGraw said of her four-legged trainee. “When I look at her, I see a little three-and-ahalf-month-old puppy, and now she’s off to do really
McGraw, a volunteer trainer, raised Samosa through a program offered at the University of Pittsburgh. After she passed the leash to Kemperman at Friday’s graduation, she welled up.
“It was absolutely my dream job,” Torop said. “It was a beautiful marriage of what fascinated me about dogs, and also having an opportunity to feel like I had an immediate impact on people’s lives.”
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
AGENDA: VISIT
Park Avenue Long Beach 516-897-8097 Next to LB Bistro Open • Mon-Thurs 11-9pm, Fri & Sat 11-10pm, Sun
Savory Crêpe
Get ready for an action-packed season with the 2025
Catholic Health facilities, including Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre, has earned high rating in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center has again been ranked among the nation’s top hospitals, earning national recognition in seven adult specialties: heart and vascular surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and gastrointestinal surgery, geriatrics, orthopedics, pulmonology and lung surgery, and urology. It also received a High Performing rating in Neurology and Neurosurgery.
St. Francis is the only hospital on Long Island to be nationally ranked for heart & vascular surgery for 18 consecutive years. The Roslyn-based facility was also recognized among the top 10 hospitals in both New York State and the New York Metropolitan Area.
“This repeated national recognition is a direct reflection of the dedication and talent of St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center’s clinical, support and administrative teams across every specialty,” Patrick O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO of Catholic Health, said. “Day in and day out, our staff works collaboratively across Catholic Health to
deliver exceptional care to our patients. It’s their unwavering commitment to our mission that continues to earn us a place among the top health systems in the country.”
Other Catholic Health hospitals also received High Performing ratings. Mercy Hospital earned a high-performance rating for diabetes, while Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip earned high-performance ratings for heart bypass surgery and transcatheter aortic valve replacement. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown received high-performance ratings for congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and pneumonia, and St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson was recognized for its performance in hip replacement and knee replacement.
The annual Best Hospitals report evaluated over 4,400 medical centers nationwide in 15 specialties and 22 procedures and conditions. Rankings are based on factors such as patient survival rates, care quality and nursing performance.
For full rankings, visit USNews.com/ besthospitals.
–Kelsie Radziski
Former stars of the award-winning jukebox musical “Jersey Boys,” reunited as The Midtown Men, are back with their ‘60s vibe at Eisenhower Park. During their time in the mega-hit, Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony nominee J. Robert Spencer shared the stage for over 1,000 performances. These Broadway veterans, with their powerhouse band, are realizing the dream they brought to life as the iconic Four Seasons. The Midtown Men is the next chapter for these accomplished entertainers, making them the first vocal group ever formed by the principal cast of a high-profile Broadway show. Not only have they continued to win over audiences of all ages in nearly 2,000 live shows, their self-titled debut album, “The Midtown Men: Sixties Hits” was met with critical acclaim and garnered five star album reviews across iTunes and was followed by their first radio single “All Alone On Christmas.”
By Abbey Salvemini
Long Island Children’s Museum goes prehistoric this summer, bringing dinosaurs to life both in the exhibit space and on stage! Budding paleontologists have been digging into the exhibit “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” where they uncover ancient secrets through real fossils and life-size skeletal replicas.
That prehistoric excitement leaps to the stage in the form of the museum’s latest original production. Newly installed theater co-directors Lisa Rudin and Austin Costello share visitors’ dino-fever and welcome everyone to “Unbox A Saurus For Us!”
Using the exhibit as its starting point, everyone enjoys what Costello describes as “a chaotic, interactive half hour of dinosaur comedy.”
For those who have yet to experience it, now’s the time, as show will soon be extinct — it closes Aug. 27!
The escapades actually begin within the exhibit area itself, where Rudin and Costello discuss the production and educate families about the fossil display.
“We wanted to do something fun, lighthearted and really interactive. We decided to start the show in the exhibit. We do about 10-15 minutes where we talk to kids and tell them about the show. When they come in, they get to go through the process of “un-boxing our saurus.” If they don’t come to the exhibit, that’s okay too, it’s not like you have to have one to understand the other,” Rudin explains.
The original storyline is based on the fictional eccentric Dr. Patricia Osiris, who works for the organization Dinorama. She’s set to uncrate a huge dinosaur she “discovered” for the museum, but misplaced her keys to the crate. She then calls out for help get the creature out of the box, encouraging everyone to use their imaginations. Each audience essentially carries out the remainder of what unfolds on stge by becoming problem solvers to assist scatterbrained Dr. Patti.
“The children have the power in that the show will not continue if they don’t play along,” Costello adds. It involves some creative improvisation, which gives each staging a special twist, depending upon the involvement of the audience.
“We do have a point in the show where we ask the kids to help us name the dinosaur. We also have a
• Aug. 20 and 27, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Aug. 24, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• $5 with museum admission, $4 members, $10 theater only
• Tickets can be purchased at licm.org/theater or at the box office
• Museum Row, Garden City
moment where they get to ask the dinosaur questions, and of course, Austin [Costello], who is in the dinosaur costume, comes up with some really good answers,” Rudin says.
One thing is for certain: the “Saurus” will always be unboxed one way or another.
“My favorite moment is when the dinosaur is finally revealed because people really don’t know what to expect. They don’t know if it’s going to be a puppet or a costume and we do our best in not giving it away until the moment so that’s a really fun bit. A lot of excited, happy screaming,” Costello shares.
Rudin, who also a teaching artist when not involved with her museum theater duties explains that she specifically chooses comedy — and material — that young children respond to effectively.
“I like to bring a lot of joy to our audiences. They leave the show having had a lot of fun and the parents have had the joy and the pride in seeing their child participate. It’s just a joyful, fun, happy experience,” Rudin says.
And there’s even more to look forward to — the museum is already planning a series of original stage productions inspired by its upcoming exhibits, bringing hands-on learning to life in new and exciting ways.
Saturday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny. gov for info and updates.
day-only performance is part of the
Also don’t miss “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale,” a delightful stage adaptation of Gay Thomas’s heartwarming book, on Aug. 16. The story celebrates the power of working together toward a shared goal — all wrapped in a fun, fact-filled adventure buzzing with bee-related tidbits. The oneday-only performance is part of the museum’s annual sweet summer celebration, Honey Hoopla.
Rudin and Costello bring an energetic mix of comedy and imagination with an educational component to their productions, which introduce young audiences to live theater. The duo cultivates a joyful and engaging environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and laughter — leaving children and adults with lasting memories.
“Who wants to help uncover a dinosaur?” Yashaun Harris rallies young “paleontologists” for hands-on dinosaur fun during a pre-performance introduction inside the Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed exhibit.
UBS Arena explodes with the raw power of epic machines at Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live. “Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life in Glow-N-Fire action. Everyone will enjoy the added fiery twist: pyrotechnic effects light up the arena. To make this show even more special, get ready an adrenalinefueled birthday party as the original monster truck that started it all, Bigfoot, marks its 50th year of entertaining fans. Of course, there’s so much more to grab your attention. Check out Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Gunkster, and the newest entry, Skelesaurus, the giant that unleashes his fossil fury. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks freestyle motocross team.
Saturday, Aug, 16, 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 17, 2:30 p.m. UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. Tickets available at hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com or ticketmaster.com.
On Exhibit Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.
•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
AUG
15
Wellness Shabbat
Temple Emanu-l of Long Beach welcomes all to free senior wellness Shabbat. Oneg guest speaker is Debbie Pugliese, the deputy commissioner for Nassau County’s Department of Human services, Office of the Aging.
•Where: 455 Neptune Blvd.
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 431-4060
Summer tunes
‘Have the time of your life’ with Dancing Dream’s tribute to Abba at Eisenhower Park.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
•Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
AUG
16
Arts in the Plaza crafts fair
Arts in the Plaza welcomes all to check out the scene. Arts in the Plaza features handcrafted art by local artists including custom jewelry, unique handmade gifts, photography and fine art. The weekly art festival will be in Kennedy Plaza every Saturday through Oct. 25.
•Where: Kennedy Plaza, 1 W. Chester St.
•Time: Weekly, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For over 60 years, Frankie Valli has captured the hearts and souls of fans worldwide with unforgettable hits such as “Sherry” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Now Frankie makes his way back to New York on his farewell tour at Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair. It promises to be a poignant celebration of Valli’s legendary career, showcasing his timeless music and incredible showmanship. The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. Now 91, Valli is the only original member still performing with the group, which has been entertaining fans for more than six decades. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as “The Deer Hunter,” “Dirty Dancing,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Conspiracy Theory” and “The Wanderers.” As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. They continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations. Valli’s long-lasting career led to the overwhelming success of the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys,” which chronicles Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons incredible career and features all of their greatest hits. The 12th longest-running show on Broadway has been seen by over 30 million people.
Bat Walk
Join wildlife biologist Nic Comparato to explore the fascinating world of bats at Old Westbury Gardens. He’ll guide visitors in learning how bats use echolocation to navigate the night and hunt for insects. Listen for bat calls with specialized equipment, search the skies for their silhouettes, and discuss their important role in local ecosystems and ongoing conservation efforts. All ages welcome. Free with admission. Space is limited; advance registration required for all attendees, including members. Rain date is Aug. 17.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
•Time: 8-9:30 p.m.
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Honey Hoopla
Families are invited to “bee” amazed at Long Island Children’s Museum’s Honey Hoopla. Celebrate National Honey Bee Day with a buzz-worthy lineup of activities. Meet a local beekeeper and explore the fascinating world of bees, from their ancient history and anatomy to their vital role in our ecosystem; take part in fun bee-themed crafts; sample different types of honey; also enjoy live theater performances inspired by the book “Beezy County
Fair: A Bee Tale.” Reservations are recommended to reserve your spot.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11 a.m.-2:45 p.m.
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Fun Fair
AUG
17
Long Beach Public Library holds its second annual Fun Fair. With food trucks, giant outdoor games, photo ops, bouncer unit and slides, crafts, and Emcee DJ Mahtzie pumping out the tunes all day. Also a performance by local legends NSTC, at 2 p.m.
•Where: 1 W Chester St., Long Beach
•Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
•Contact: longbeachlibrary.org
AUG
18
In concert Eisenhower Park welcomes Stan Zizka and the Del Satins. Step back to those doo-wop days and enjoy some nostalgic melodies.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
•Time: 5 p.m.
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
exploring the world of dinosaurs in a lighthearted “scientific” comedy that blends imagination and learning. $5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.
•
Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug 24 and Aug. 27
•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
AUG 21
Swifties in the park
Get your Taylor groove on with Let’s Sing Taylor, with the Taylor Swift Experience tribute.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
•Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
Summer sounds
AUG
22
Enjoy ‘70s and ‘80s soft rock with Yachtley Crew at Eisenhower Park.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
•Where: 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury
• Time: 8 p.m.
•Contact: livenation.com
AUG
20
Tunes on the beach
The city’s free summer concert series continues with Sir Duke’s Stevie Wonder Tribute.
•Where: Edwards Boulevard Beach
•Time: 7 p.m.
Every Wednesday and Saturday farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers who bring their best to share with the community. From fresh, locally grown produce to handmade goods and unique treats, every vendor has a story worth discovering.
•Where: Kennedy Plaza
• Time: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Unbox A-Saurus for Us! Young paleontologists-in-training are sure to enjoy Long Island Children’s Museum’s new stage production. This interactive theatrical experience invites visitors to join an eccentric paleontologist (a.k.a. “Dr. Patti”) as she attempts to reveal a neverbefore-seen dinosaur specimen — if only she can figure out how to open the crate it’s locked in. Along the way, the audience becomes key players in solving problems, sparking laughter and
Long Island Celtic Festival and Highland Games
Enjoy a the second edition of the festival devoted to honoring Celtic heritage on the expansive lawns in front of historic Westbury House. With entertainment, competitions, vendors, refreshments and more.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
•Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Margaretville! Parrotheads unite! The city’s free summer concert series on the beach continues with Parrot Beach playing Jimmy Buffet music.
•Where: Lincoln Boulevard Beach
•Time: 7 p.m.
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
August 14, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,
Plaintiff - against -
MICHAEL D’ANTONI
A/K/A MICHAEL
DANTONI A/K/A
MICHAEL E. D’ANTONI
A/K/A MICHAEL
EDWARD D’ANTONI, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 26, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 26th day of August, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Premises known as 30 Delaware Avenue, Long Beach, (City of Long Beach) NY 11561. (SBL#: 59-260-13)
Approximate amount of lien $292,309.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 608466/2019. Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618
Tel. 585/760-8218
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: June 17, 2025
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 154693
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that a license, number CL-25-100168-01 for BEER AND CIDER license has been applied for SAI QUICKSTOP INC to sell BEER AND CIDER at retail in an EATING PLACE BEER establishment under the Alcohol Beverage Control Law at 123 West Park Avenue, Long Beach, NY 11561 for on-premises consumption. 154958
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION
MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-BC5, -againstPATRICIA BERKELEY, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 3, 2025, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610508/2020; James Pascarella, Esq., as Referee; Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 154925
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS Street of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 08/20/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.
The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.
155117
By JACK SCHWED Intern
The sounds of bagpipes, fiddles and tap dancing filled the stage of Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theater on Aug. 4. Through traditional song and dance performances, the Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens celebrated Long Island’s rich Irish heritage and culture for this year’s annual Irish American Night.
John Doyle, president of the Irish American Society’s local chapter, opened the event with a ceremony honoring standout members of the organization. This year’s honorees were former president Brigid McNulty, Patrick Myers, Kit Smith and PJ Smith.
MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-BC5 is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA BERKELEY, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 10, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 520 LAURELTON BOULEVARD, LONG BEACH, NY 11561; tax map identification 59-56-1, 2, 3, 4 & 5; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE CITY OF LONG BEACH, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK .
443/25. LIDO BEACHRichard Rubin, Special exception to install shed with outdoor shower attached thereto higher & larger & exceeds horizontal maximum not permitted in the side yard., S/s Sands Ct., 130.35’ S/o Regent Dr., a/k/a 86 Sands Ct. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Lido Beach within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SOUNDVIEW HOME LOAN TRUST 2007OPT1, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-OPT1, Plaintiff, AGAINST ASHANTI RANDOLPH, EXECUTRIX AND HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES RANDOLPH A/K/A JAMES A. RANDOLPH, JAMES RANDOLPH A/K/A JAMES RANDOLPH JR., AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF JAMES RANDOLPH A/K/A JAMES A. RANDOLPH, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on November 21, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 545B W Broadway Unit 205, Long Beach, NY 11561.
Master of ceremonies and radio host Tony Jackson introduced each of the night’s performing acts, starting with Tommy Mulvihill and Sean Quinn who serenaded the crowd with the Irish and American national anthems.
The entertainment continued with the Inis Fada Gaelic Pipe Band — Inis Fada means Long Island in Irish — donning dark blue kilts and Glengarry bonnets as their powerful harmonies echoed throughout the park.
The Clann Agus Cairde Ceili Band then took the stage — Clann Agus
Cairde translates to Family and Friends, and a Ceili is a traditional Irish social gathering that often involves dancing and playing Gaelic folk music. The group embodied the spirit of this tradition, with lively jigs that had the crowd moving around.
The dancing carried on as the Inis Fada Set Dancers got on stage, showcasing their vibrant group dances and encouraging audience members to join in.
This was followed by the Donny Golden School of Champion Irish Step Dancers, a group that has performed at many acclaimed venues, even appearing on television shows and documentaries. The school, regarded as one of the premier Irish dancing schools in the world, was founded by Donny Golden, one of the most renowned Irish dancers in the United States.
During an intermission, the Tommy Mulvihill Band returned to the stage, with Sean Quinn, fiddle in hand, paying homage to the extensive history of traditional Irish music.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0059, Block 00028-00 and Lot 00184. Approximate amount of judgment $695,803.91 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #005461/2014.
Karen C.
Grant, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLP -
Attorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200,
As the night came to a close, the park roared with Irish spirit, as everyone sang and danced along to tunes from their homeland, highlighting the long-lasting legacy of Irish culture in America.
Help Wanted
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour
Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School
516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
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. Historically, reporters who have 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 jbessen@liherald.com
Grill Person F/T
Counter Person F/T-P/T
Experience Preferred
Busy Lido Beach Deli
Call Peter or Evelyn 516-432-2736
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 $16.50 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 $34,320 + 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
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 $34,320 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
Real Estate
WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670
Q. Our front porch is falling apart and we want to replace it, just as it is. The original columns are rotted at the bottoms and there are cracks where the columns were put together, vertical joints that appear as if the columns were made from many pieces. Is that common, that columns are made from many pieces? Do you have a recommendation for who can make new columns and what kind of wood is best? I’m not choosey, because they will be painted. What do you suggest? Also, I know you recommend getting permits, but I want to do the work myself, and it’s a direct replacement, so I want to just dismantle it and put it back. The roof concerns me most, so I plan to take a lot of pictures. Do you think this is as much of a problem as it would be if the porch were new?
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
ISLAND PARK: 1 BR, suitable one, ground floor, all renovated, water/heat included. No Pets. $1700/ month. 516-316-6962
A. So this is a column about columns. I remember working in a firm 40 years ago, when a renowned surgeon from Texas purchased 100-plus acres with a mansion on Long Island Sound, and I was assigned to design the additions and redesign the exteriors to be a modernized traditional shingle-style home. I was called into the firm’s principal, who chastised me for recommending synthetic trim and engineered shingles. The shingles I chose were pre-finished, and would still be performing well today, but instead, the house was finished in traditional wood, necessitating the expenditure of over $100,000 every three to four years for staining and painting. It was such a large expense that when I coincidently showed up 30 years later on that estate, to redesign for the new owner, they told me the surgeon grew tired of all the maintenance.
Wood columns are made in sections and bonded together at vertical seams. The sections are made from either steam-curved or shaped planks, cut to develop the rounded segments. You will notice that there has to be a space at the bottom to allow humidity and rain to drain and evaporate. Without that air space, the rotting is accelerated.
Because the columns will be painted, you’re better off with fiberglass columns, which come in a variety of shapes, lengths and styles. They are structural, and you’ll never need to replace them. Due to their stability, they hold a painted finish much longer, requiring painting only once a decade or two, but they still require an air space at the base.
The main reason for a permit isn’t just to have a piece of paper or cover the local government for liability should anyone get hurt. The permit process also confirms the replacement construction is safe and will last. The roof attachment, porch floor, foundation and how columns are spaced to transfer loads is critical. Incorrectly placed fastening, and a lack of structural checking and code compliance can create water problems and cause the replacement porch to require premature replacement. Just do things safely. Good luck!
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160
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
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 Wanted To Buy
Costume Jewelry Wanted Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver.
$$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792 Long Island / Will Travel
DALE TIFFANY STAINED glass floor lamp, $55. Call 516-678-0694 for photo.
DRESSERS: TWO BLACK Wood. Single drawer, 2 doors w/shelf. Formica top. W-32"xH-30"xD-18" $90 Both. 516-320-1906
GOLDTONE LIGHTER by Colbri- brand new, butane fuel, refill, Vintage Style. $20.00 (516)579-9089
GRACE FOODS, JAMAICAN style BBQ gift basket. $15. Valley Stream. (516)209-7970.
LLADRO'S, GIUSEPPE ARMANI, & Hummel Figurines, Excellent, never used. $99 All. 516- 579-9089 all appraised
THREE STROLLERS IN one: Graco Modes Bassinet LX Stroller, excellent, check video online. $99.l 516-678-0694
SERVICES
Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry
***MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION*** EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS! GIUSEPPE MUCCIACCIARO
We Do Pavers, Cultured Stone, Concrete, Bluestone, Blacktop, Fireplace, Patio, Waterproofing, Walkways, Pool Work. Lic#H2204320000 Family Operation Over 40Years. 516-238-6287
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 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.
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! 1-833-807-0159
DO YOU KNOW what's in your water?
Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
PAVERS- CONCRETE- BLACKTOP
Book Now & Save On All Masonry Work.
Driveways- Patios- Stoops- SidewalksWalkways- Stonework- Pool SurroundsOutdoor Kitchens- Family Owned/ Operated For Over 40Yrs. FREE Estimates. Lic# H1741540000.
DANSON CONSTRUCTION INC
516-409-4553; 516-798-4565 www.dansoninc.com
Home Improvement
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473
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
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Services
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
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: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
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! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE *TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com
Satellite/TV Equipment
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397
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
Autos Wanted
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/
When voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2014 creating New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission, the goal was clear: to take politics out of the process and put the people back in charge of drawing their political maps.
But Albany is at it again.
Democratic lawmakers are now pushing a constitutional amendment to allow mid-decade redistricting — not because the law requires it, and not because populations shifted, but because it might help them win. Their excuse? “Texas is doing it.”
That’s not governance. That’s retaliation. And it’s dangerous.
Let’s remember: In 2022, the Court of Appeals resoundingly struck down Albany Democrats’ gerrymandered maps for violating the state Constitution. It was a clear rebuke. The voters had spoken in 2014, and the court reaffirmed their will.
And yet, despite already spending over $20 million of taxpayer money on
lawyers, consultants and failed commissions, Albany Democrats want to try again. They want to build a permanent partisan escape hatch into the Constitution — so they can redraw maps whenever it suits them.
This time, they’re declaring war. Literally.
Gov. Kathy Hochul recently called for dismantling the IRC entirely, saying, “This is a war … the gloves are off … we’re done playing nice.” She even hosted Texas Democrats who fled their state to break a quorum over redistricting — then floated that New York should fight fire with fire.
This is not leadership. It’s constitutional vandalism.
VIntegrity. Instead it became a $10 million deadlocked commission whose maps were ignored. Lawmakers seized control, chaos ensued, and the courts had to clean up the mess.
Now Albany wants to enshrine that chaos into law.
oters should choose their representation — not the other way around.
Let me be clear: I’m not a Texas Republican, and I’m certainly not a New York Democrat trying to hijack our electorate. I’m a Long Island assemblyman who believes voters should choose their political representation — not the other way around. I believe in decency, the rule of law, and the idea that these ends do not justify the means.
And if this amendment passes the Legislature, I will see them in court.
The IRC may be imperfect, but it was created by the people of New York with one goal in mind: stability. Fairness.
Let’s look at the price we’ve already paid: $7 million in outside redistricting contracts; $3 million in State Senate legal fees; $1.5 million by the Assembly; and $2.4 million in direct litigation costs. All funded by taxpayers. And what has this endless redistricting battle delivered? Confusion. Distrust. Broken promises. The only thing worse than politicians choosing their voters is asking those voters to pay for it.
I won’t stand idly by while our Constitution becomes a casualty of partisan warfare. And I won’t let Hochul — or anyone else — rip it up just because they’re losing the game.
What we need now is not another power grab. We need a peace deal — not between political parties, but between our elected officials and the people of New York. A ceasefire in the redistricting wars. A commitment to play by the rules we all agreed to.
Because if we don’t, the consequenc-
es will cascade: more lawsuits, more court-drawn maps, more public cynicism. And while Albany’s political class obsesses over lines on a map, the real issues — our affordability, housing, immigration, mental health, insurance, and rampant fraud crises — go unaddressed.
This moment demands more than partisanship. It demands principle. If Albany Democrats push this amendment forward, they will betray the voters, break the public trust, and ignite another political firestorm. And I will meet them — with legislation, with public opposition and, if necessary, with litigation in both state and federal courts.
To my colleagues, I offer a final word of caution, and a plea: You don’t defend democracy by undermining it. You don’t restore public trust by rewriting rules to stay in power. You don’t govern by declaring war on the very voters you serve.
Let’s put the voters first. Let’s honor the Constitution. Let’s broker a peace deal — not to help one party win, but to help New Yorkers win, and heal. I stand ready to fight, but more important, I stand ready to lead.
If this becomes a war, I’ll see you in court. But I’d rather see us return to decency, together.
Jake Blumencranz represents the 15th Assembly District.
For Mets fans, this year was supposed to be different
in early June, I was planning my October.
The Mets, whose record at the time was 41–24, led the National League East by3½ games on June 7. They didn’t just look like contenders — they looked like one of the best teams in baseball. Their pitching rotation was sharp, leading the major leagues with an ERA of 2.4. Their bats were delivering timely hits. And for once, the bullpen didn’t make me want to walk into traffic. It was, dare I say, fun to be a Mets fan. But these are the Mets. Fun is fleeting. Hope is hazardous, and being a fan is not for the faint of heart. And now, two months later, I’m left wondering what happened to the team that had me believing. Since that June date, the Mets had gone 22–31 as of Sunday night. That’s not just a slump; that’s a collapse. At press time, they trailed the Philadelphia
Phillies by 5½ games in the N.L. East and were once again staring down the possibility of a late-season scramble just to get into the postseason. Sound familiar? It should. Last year’s agonizing, stress-filled play-in saga added to my existing gray hair.
And the worst part? It didn’t have to be this way.
In the days before the July 31 trade deadline, the front office made moves — smart ones, even. Acquiring left-hander Gregory Soto and right-handers
Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley — all three are relievers — and outfielder Cedric Mullins.
Htheir heads.
ope is hazardous, and being a fan of this team is not for the faint of heart.
Being a Mets fan means riding the emotional equivalent of the Cyclone at Coney Island — except instead of screaming with joy, you’re mostly screaming at the bullpen. We’ve been here before: 2007, 2008, 2015’s near-miracle, 2022’s 101win team that fizzled in the Wild Card Series. Even last year’s appearance in the League Championship Series, just to lose to the Dodgers, felt like a cruel joke.
chises play meaningful baseball while we stew in what-ifs.
There’s still time. Two months remain, and the National League is crowded. If the Mets can rediscover what worked — if their arms stay healthy, if the lineup settles into a groove, if the new acquisitions mesh quickly — this team can still avoid the play-in.
They can still push deep. But those ifs are starting to feel heavier by the day.
They added those arms and a little pop to the lineup, trying to patch what was clearly fraying. For a moment, it looked like the front office had figured it out: Invest in the stretch run, avoid the one-game elimination trap and push for an actual run in October.
But good decisions in the front office don’t always translate into wins on the field. Injuries happened. Slumps happened. And maybe, just maybe, the pressure of being “the team to beat” got into
This year was supposed to be different. And for a while, it was. The earlyseason version of the Mets played like a complete team. Watching them was a reminder of why we stick with baseball — for the rhythms, the tension, the slowburn drama of a team finding itself. It felt earned. It felt genuine. Now? I watch games bracing for the bullpen to unravel in the seventh inning. I second-guess every swing with runners in scoring position. I wonder if we’ve already seen the best this team has to offer — and if we’re about to spend another fall watching other fran-
Baseball is cruel that way. The highs don’t last. The lows can seem to stretch forever. And sometimes the worst thing the sport can give you isn’t heartbreak, it’s hope.
The frustrations and stresses of being a Mets fan have no boundaries. Especially after a weekend series in which they lost three games to the Central Division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. A team with so much promise now must pick up the pieces, starting this week with a series against its annual nemesis, the Atlanta Braves. So I’ll watch, and hope the turnaround starts there. Because I’m a Mets fan. And that is what we do.
We Long Islanders pride ourselves on our tight-knit neighborhoods — where we know our neighbors, care about our schools and keep an eye on the quality of life around us.
But strong communities don’t happen by accident. They take work, collaboration, and a willingness to roll up our sleeves when challenges arise. That’s where civic associations have a role.
Civic associations are the heartbeat of thriving communities, bringing neighbors together to solve problems, advocate for resources and foster meaningful connections. They are volunteerdriven organizations that give residents a collective voice and a platform for making changes. And in a time when so many people are frustrated by governmental red tape and feel disconnected from the work our legislators do, civic groups offer a way to take action where you live — and see the results.
Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, civic associations are tackling the issues that matter most to their residents: keeping streets safe, preserving open space, making infrastructure improvements, protecting the environment, supporting local businesses. They hold pub-
Nassau County isn’t a police state. ICE is just making it
To the Editor:
lic forums at which residents can question elected officials face to face. They organize cleanup days to beautify parks and playgrounds. They rally for traffic safety measures, improved lighting, and the repair of roads and sidewalks. They speak out at zoning board meetings.
These groups also help knit together the social fabric of our neighborhoods. Civic associations often host holiday celebrations, block parties, cultural festivals, and other events that bring residents together. They foster a sense of belonging that is too often missing in our lives these days, when it’s easy to retreat behind doors and screens.
When residents band together, it’s harder for elected officials to ignore their concerns. A single phone call or email might go unanswered, but a unified letter from a civic association — backed by dozens, or hundreds, of neighbors — commands attention.
Long Island has a proud tradition of grassroots involvement. Many of our strongest civic victories — from preserving coastal wetlands to blocking irresponsible overdevelopment — were made possible by everyday residents who refused to sit on the sidelines. They showed up, spoke out and organized.
Re Claudia Borecky’s letter in the July 31-Aug. 6 issue, “Nassau County is showing signs of becoming a police state”: Perhaps another way of looking at County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s reallocating 10 brave detectives to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement is that they are being deployed exactly where they should be.
They will be removing criminal illegals and continuing to make Nassau County safe. Dismantling gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, which are transnational criminal organizations, is another move toward public safety. Under the current administration’s immigration policies, securing our borders will reduce the volume of fentanyl that has been flowing into our country. This will save many thousand of lives per year.
As a proud first-generation immigrant, I am all for legal immigration. But in New York state, there has been a burden placed on our school systems and hospitals due to mass illegal immigration. The cost of housing illegals was estimated to be well into the billions in 2023 alone.
The Democratic party of my father is gone. Replacing it is a party of open borders, defunding the police, defending criminals, the “green new scam,” men in women’s sports, DEI, election
And they did it not for personal gain, but because they cared about the place they call home.
Civic associations need new members to survive — and that’s where you can help.
Too often, a small group of volunteers carries the load year after year. Without fresh ideas and extra hands, these groups risk fading away — along with the community’s ability to respond to challenges.
If you’ve never been to a meeting, try attending the next one in your area. You’ll learn about local issues, meet new neighbors, and see how quickly your voice can make a difference.
In the end, joining your local civic association is about more than fixing a pothole or stopping a bad development. It’s about ensuring that Long Island remains a place where people look out for one another, where our neighborhoods stay safe and welcoming, and where the future reflects the values we share.
Your community needs you. Those who show up — in person, around the table, ready to listen, prepared to speak and willing to work together, will write Long Island’s future. Be one of them.
interference, and high crime due to bail reform. National Democrats claim to be the party for women’s rights, yet turned a blind eye to the fact that so many of the women crossing the southern border
under the previous administration were raped. How many people were complicit with the cover-up of President Biden’s cognitive decline?
As the policies of the Trump adminis-
aLaUra a. GiLLen
s the representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District, I am urging houses of worship across Nassau County’s South Shore to apply for the fiscal year 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The NSGP is a critical tool that provides federal funding to houses of worship and other nonprofits for security enhancements, including physical security infrastructure, emergency alert systems and certain contracted security personnel.
Earlier this month, I urged the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to issue NSGP
grant applications for fiscal year 2025 during a hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. I spoke directly with the acting administrator about how synagogues, churches and many other houses of worship and religious institutions across the South Shore rely on this critical funding to keep worshippers safe.
After months of delay, I am pleased that the administration has finally made these funds available for fiscal year 2025. My office has already begun working with houses of worship across the 4th District to prepare their applications, and I encourage all those interested in applying for this federal funding opportunity to reach out for more information on the application process.
a nd it’s an urgent need as we face an increase in hate and extremism.
must apply for the NSGP through the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. More information on how to apply will be available from the division. In the meantime, I encourage houses of worship interested in applying to make use of the Getting Started Guide, available on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ website, to make sure you are prepared to apply.
to safeguard our institutions is particularly urgent as we face an increase in hate and extremism in New York and across the country.
As threats against houses of worship rise, the need for contracted security personnel has become a reality for many of our faith-based communities. I have also spoken with faith leaders in my district about the need to increase the ability of houses of worship to use NSGP funding for those personnel. While that funding supports physical security enhancements, there is a real need to help reimburse personnel costs.
Houses of worship and nonprofits
tration start to take hold, we find secure borders, fair tariffs, lower fuel costs, multiple peace treaties, energy independence, and a renewed pride in the USA. The Democrats have tried to cheat, impeach (two times), bankrupt and imprison President Trump. I look forward to seeing the outrage and pearl clutching as the president presides over the country’s 250th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 and the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Coming soon, the hammer is going to drop on everyone involved win the Russian collusion hoax, with multiple mug shots to follow.
North Bellmore
To the Editor:
Under the leadership of Megan Ryan, the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NuHealth) experienced a revitalization that had been absent for over a decade. As CEO, Ryan brought back a clear mission and vision centered on patient care, operational integrity and long-term sustainability.
Her approach to restructuring the finance department significantly improved revenue through more efficient billing practices. In addition, Ryan expanded access to care by extending clinic hours to better serve our community. She led a successful fundraiser to acquire a
brand new, state-of-the-art Mammography Van, and construction is now underway for a first-time catheterization lab.
Ryan’s leadership extended beyond the walls of the Nassau University Medical Center. When it was revealed that New York state owed NuHealth nearly $1 billion in Medicaid funding, Ryan took action. She organized and financed a bus trip to Albany, where she and NuHealth employees lobbied lawmakers — having previously testified at budget hearings — demanding the funds NuHealth was rightfully owed. Her advocacy for NuHealth and its patients also included standing firm against the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority, which proposed downsizing. She fought to protect both the workforce and the quality of care for the community.
Ryan’s previous efforts had ensured that NuHealth continued to deliver high-quality services to families, even in the face of political and financial pressures. Unfortunately, it appears that those efforts to stand up for NuHealth’s interests drew political retaliation. The proposed state takeover of NuHealth by Gov. Kathy Hochul, with the help of NIFA’s chairman, Richard Kessel, may be viewed as silencing a CEO who had simply been doing what was right for the people.
Ryan should be commended, not condemned, for her courage, advocacy, and dedication to the community and employees she served. VINCENT
I am committed to making sure that our religious institutions have the necessary resources to protect themselves so that every community can worship and practice religion free from fear. It is important to bring back more of our tax dollars from Washington to better protect our communities from terrorism and other threats. Securing this funding
The NSGP is a critical tool to help secure our houses of worship and other nonprofits. I will continue to work on this important issue, and look forward to helping these entities bring back federal dollars to keep our communities on Long Island safe.
Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
ROCHELLE
